Camiguin Island is named as the “Island of Fire” because of the presence of seven volcanoes in the area. The province is the smallest in Mindanao and the second smallest in the country. What it lacks in size it makes up with beauty and spectacle for your perfect weekend getaway.
The Best Time to Visit
The sweltering months of April, May, and June are ideal for sun lovers. The temperature is highest at 33.3°C in May. Bask in the sun and get lots of vitamin D. Or dive in the turquoise sea water and frolic with beautiful aquatic life.
The influx of tourists happen in January, May, and September. If you are on a tight budget avoid these months. accommodations and flights are pricy.
Getting to Camiguin Island
Whenever I travel I use the budget routes to save money and travel time.
Air Travel
If you’re coming from Manila, there is no direct flight to Camiguin Island, you can reach the place via 2 gateways at Cebu and Cagayan de Oro.
MANILA TO CEBU | MANILA TO CAGAYAN DE ORO | |
Expected travel time | 1 hour and 25 minutes | 1 hour and 36 minutes |
Expected fare (Roundtrip) | PHP 3,888 | PHP 4,423 |
Air carrier | PAL and Cebu Pacific | PAL and Cebu Pacific |
Water Travel
TRANSPORTATION | CEBU TO CAMIGUIN | CAGAYAN DE ORO TO CAMIGUIN |
Ferry fare | PHP 430 | PHP 170 |
Travel time | 2 hours 50 minutes | 2 hours |
Camiguin Tourist Spots
Mount Hibok Hibok
Of the seven volcanoes on the island Mount Hibok Hibok stands out for its explosive history because of its five eruptions. Although it remains an active volcano it does not show any sign of activity.
It will take mountain climbers four hours to reach the peak. Achievers will be rewarded with stunning and matchless views of nearby provinces. See the mossy crater and blade-sharp rocks with growth of pitcher plants. Bathe your weary in nearby hot springs.
- What to do and expect: 2-3 hours of hiking, Hot Spring
- Fees:
- No entrance/environmental fee for hiking
- ₱50 per head for hot spring
- ₱1,500-2,000 for trekking guide per group (whole day)
Mount Vulcan
A go-to place for tourist and pilgrims during the Holy Week. On the way to the summit, a visitor will come across life-size statues portraying the sufferings of Jesus Christ. The 14 Stations of the Cross are displayed at intervals while ascending the mountain.
- What to do and expect: Hiking, Viewing
- Entrance Fee: None
White Island
White Island is a sand bar that is boomerang shaped and can be reached with a ten-minute boat ride. There are no shelters or shades to protect you from the sun. But tourist frequent the place because of its pearly white sand and the crystal blue water.
- What to do and expect: White sand beach and sandbar
- Fees:
- Environmental fee: ₱35 per head
- Boat fee: ₱150 per head (round-trip)
Katibawasan Falls
Water drops from 250 feet above ground down to a pool below. Flora decorate the cliffs and big boulders were arranged by nature to let the water make beautiful movement.
- What to do and expect: Waterfalls
- Environmental Fee: ₱50 per head
Mantigue Nature Island Park
Also known as Magsaysay Island with lush vegetation and surrounded with unadulterated white sand. It is a marine sanctuary with an underwater wonderland full of astonishing aquatic life perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving.
- What to do and expect: White sand beach
- Fees:
- Environmental fee: ₱30 per head
- Boat fee: ₱150 per head (round-trip)
- Cottage fee: ₱150 per day
Sunken Cemetery
An old cemetery that sunk during the eruption of Mount Vulcan in the 1870’s along with some areas in Bonbon City. Atop the cemetery is a huge cross built in 1982.
- What to do and expect: Viewing
- Entrance Fee: None
Old Gui-ob Church Ruins
The Gui-ob church was badly destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vulcan in the 1870’s. The town of Catarman, home to the church, was severely hit a portion of the town fell into the sea. The ruins of Gui-ob are remnants of the town.
- What to do and expect: Viewing
- Entrance Fee: None
Sto. Niño Cold Spring
- What to do and expect: Crystal clear cold water
- Environmental Fee: ₱50 per head
Getting Around Camiguin
Transportation:
- Motorcycle rental: ₱400 a day (good for 2pax)
- Tricycle rental: ₱800 a day (good for 4-6pax)
- Multicab rental: ₱1,000 to 2,000 (good for 10-12pax)
There are motorbikes and multicabs available for rent when you arrive, the above rates are your reference to make sure you will not be overcharged.
TIP: It’s still better to look for a rental in advance. You can search tour agencies or rentals on Facebook by searching for “Camiguin Rentals”.
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