Destination highlights

Located in the north of Mindanao, in the Philippines, Camiguin is a small island ideal for those travelers looking for a place to relax and forget all their problems. However, at the same time full of adventure thanks to the combination of its jungle landscapes, Ferns and sea. All this, as well as being characterized by its volcanic and mountainous structure, the result of volcanic activities that took place thousands of years ago, that leaves all visitors surprised that have the opportunity to fly over or explore this hidden paradise in Southeast Asia.

The island with more volcanoes per square meter of the planet, standing out the Hibok-Hibok, the largest of all. Camiguin, is a little known and different destination. However, it does not stop being interesting, but rather, on the contrary, since it has different attractions, beautiful places like it’s beautiful waterfalls, black sand beaches, thermal springs , and of course, its people characterized by kindness and hospitality. In addition, it is considered one of the most important biodiversity centers in the Philippines, taking into account that birds, mammals and amphibians are unique in their existence, and even 81 types of butterflies, 18 of them, endemic.

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Travel tips

Visiting this island, also known as “the island born of fire”, will be a valuable and meaningful experience for those adventurers who want to find something more than beautiful beaches, since it has a great variety of exceptional activities, where the most important thing is the preservation and responsible tourism. It should be noted that upon arrival to the island, it is advisable to go to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, in order to obtain the DENR permit, essential for access to hiking through the Natural Parks. Among the main activities and attractions in Camiguin, is the giant clams sanctuary “Giant Clam”, located on the beach of Kibila, where the visitor can enjoy snorkeling with a guide that will allow you not only to see them up close.

But also to learn curious details about this endangered species, which usually measure from one meter and forty centimeters and up to a weight of 300kg, in addition to diving among wonderful corals. It is important to note that in this sanctuary they ensure the survival and protection of this species against fishermen, taking into account that giant clams have been threatened by the illegal market in the Asian continent in recent years. On the other hand, the Sunken Cementery, is another of the interesting places that this island has. It is an old wrecked cemetery, located about 15 kilometers west of Mambajao.

In it, there is a large white cross reconstructed in the middle of the sea, which represents the result of an eruption of the Mount Voulcan, at the end of the 19th century, specifically in 1870, which left part of the Camiguín island destroyed and sunk. The visitor will have the opportunity to approach the cross by boat, and even enter the cemetery through guided snorkeling in this protected area surrounded by corals of various shapes and colors. On the other hand, for true fans of diving and snorkeling, Mantigue Island located 3 kilometers from Camiguin, is another good option to spend a relaxing day among its jungle, sand and especially, sea.

However, visiting the White Island, or White Island, a few kilometers from Mambajao, is practically obligatory when traveling to Camiguin, since it is a small island of white sand and wonderful turquoise waters, which offers beautiful travelers unmissable sights. The tourist can also find a variety of waterfalls with clear and fresh water, among which is Katabawasan Falls, approximately 70 meters high, where you can cool off in its semi-natural pools surrounded by beautiful vegetation. Binanawan, Tuasan, Santo Niño Cold Springs, Soda Water Park and Arden Hot Springs are other waterfalls, springs and natural hot springs, perfect for relaxing, the latter being famous for its soda pools, and hot waters from the Hibok-Hibok volcano, respectively .

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To make the trip even more extraordinary, the climb to the mountain of said volcano, Hibok-Hibok, 1332 meters high, is an amazing experience, with an approximate duration of four hours to reach the top. Travelers will find beautiful vegetation, endemic birds, and a beautiful view of the White, Bohol, Mindanao and Siquijor islands. All this, with the help of a guide. In addition to this, if you visit Camiguin in October, you will enjoy the traditional Festival of Lanzones, full of dances, parades and colorful clothes, in order to celebrate the harvest of this sweet fruit the size of a grape, characterized by its skin dark brown color. It should be noted that the climate in Camiguin is mostly rainy throughout the year, however, this does not mean that there are no dry days; According to the inhabitants of the island, the most frequent and intense rains occur in the months between December and February.

It is important to note that the best way to get to Camiguin is by plane from Cebu, where the Cebu Pacific airline has flights at affordable prices, on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Alternatively, by ferry from Jogna, Bohol. The most advisable thing is to consult the chronograms in Internet in advance. On the other hand, in terms of internal transport, renting motorcycles is usually the best option, taking into account that it is a small and easy to travel island, although you can also find tricycles, bicycles, jeepneys and multicabs.

Hotel recommendations

The island of Camiguin, has a wide range of accommodation for all types of budgets, located mainly in the capital Mambajao, and also in the municipalities Bug-ong, Agoho and Yumbing, located 7 kilometers from the capital. It should be noted that many travelers have recommended Volcano Beach Eco Retreat, Hill Top Bed and Breakfast, Ysla Beach Resort, Caves Dive Resort, and Medano Island Resort.

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