Basically, tourism will always be remembered as the traveling of people from one place to another. It just varies when it comes to travel motivators and purposes, some for leisure, business, education, recreation, and the like. In our journey, we would like to highlight one type of tourism wherein its main goal is to conserve the enironment and preserve traditional cultures prevailing in natural areas. This type is called Eco Tourism.
The group including Ms. Diana Joy Caparro, Ms. Kerstein Gem Guelos and Ms. Jewel Jan Surita, had a hard time choosing the right place that fits the description of an ecotourism destination. General Santos City wasn’t their first choice as they thought the neighboring municipalities and cities have a lot to offer when it comes to this type of tourism destination. After a thorough search, the team had finally seen a perfectly fit site that can be only found in the area, thus they have decided to go to Olarte Cave, located at Purok Guadalupe, Brgy. Olympog, Conel, General Santos City.
On our way there, we rode a motorcycle and we could really say that it is more convenient and you can really enjoy the essence of nature and the fresh breeze that is far away from the city's polluted air. A four wheeler car can also reach areas near the site. But before we can get to the specific destination, we need to walk for almost an hour on a rocky road which is very challenging but still enjoyable. We crossed 4 - 6 streams of water before we could finally get to the area.
As we got there, we were required to pay P60.00 per head. They also offered tables for us which are worth P50.00 and a sari sari store can be found on the site where you can buy anything you need during your stay there. But, it is recommended to bring your own food because the place doesn't allow vendors to sell in the place to avoid trash that might make the lagoon unclean.
The lagoon was so clear. You can see what is beneath the water because it is so clear. It's 80ft. lagoon will unquestionably cool you off from head to toe wherein you can also see little fishes. Some lagoons will make us travel a distance and spend too much money just to experience what it is like to enjoy a cave. It is unbelievably great that we could visit a location like that and only needed to take one ride. However, let's always remember to leave no trace everywhere we go. Let's continue to protect and appreciate nature for what it is.
After admiring and exploring the area, we can really tell that for groups of friends looking for adventures that would fit their budget, this magnificent paradise will shock your senses by showing how an inexpensive trip can result in creating good and unforgettable memories. Thus, let us support local tourist spots in our own hometown!