Camiguin Island

A man stands by a lush waterfall in Northern Mindanao, Philippines, amidst vibrant greenery.
Levi Vaagenes, Pexels

Camiguin Island, known as the "Island Born of Fire," offers a serene escape with its unique volcanic landscapes, white sand sandbars like White Island and Mantigue Island, and numerous waterfalls and hot and cold springs. It provides a blend of natural beauty and historical sites for a tranquil and engaging travel experience.

Camiguin Island primarily offers a laid-back and peaceful atmosphere, rather than specific areas for active socializing with other tourists or backpackers. While accommodations are available, including in the main town of Mambajao and Yumbing Barangay, the island's charm lies in its quiet exploration of natural and historical sites, with less emphasis on a vibrant nightlife or communal gathering spots.

Top 10 Things to do in Camiguin Island

Visitors can explore pristine sandbars, discover rich marine ecosystems, delve into historical volcanic remnants, and relax in natural hot and cold springs across the island.

1. White Island

White Island is a pristine, uninhabited sandbar offering panoramic views of Camiguin's volcanic landscape, including Mount Hibok-Hibok and Old Volcano. It is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and capturing stunning photographs, especially during sunrise or early morning before it gets too crowded. There is no shade, so bringing an umbrella is highly recommended.

Cost: Boat ride: PHP 550 per boat (up to 6 people). Environmental fee: PHP 75 per person. Umbrella rental: PHP 150 (optional).

Transport: Reach the White Island Ferry Terminal in Yumbing, Mambajao. It is about a 15-minute ride from Mambajao town proper by tricycle (PHP 10-20 short distance, or part of a full-day hire) or motorbike (rental PHP 400-600/day). The boat ride to the island takes approximately 10-15 minutes.

2. Mantigue Island

Mantigue Island is a small, forested island surrounded by a gleaming white sand beach and vibrant coral reefs. It is an excellent spot for snorkeling and diving, offering a chance to witness diverse marine life and healthy coral formations, including a steep underwater drop-off on its south side. A small shop and restaurant are available on the island, and visitors are typically allowed a 3-hour stay.

Cost: Boat ride: PHP 750 per boat (up to 6 people). Environmental fee: PHP 75 per person. Snorkeling fee: PHP 75 per person. Mask and snorkel rental: PHP 100. Extending stay beyond 3 hours costs PHP 150 per hour.

Transport: Boats to Mantigue Island depart from San Roque Port in Mahinog, located in southeast Camiguin. From Mambajao, a tricycle ride to San Roque port costs around PHP 150-200, or a shared van is PHP 40-50. Renting a scooter (PHP 350-600/day) allows for independent travel. The boat trip to the island is about 20 minutes.

3. Sunken Cemetery

The Sunken Cemetery is a unique historical site where a graveyard was submerged by a volcanic eruption in the 1870s. A towering white cross marks the location from the coastal highway. Visitors can take a short boat ride to the cross for an up-close view or snorkel over the underwater cemetery to see old tombstones and a thriving marine ecosystem that has formed around the submerged structures.

Cost: Boat ride to the cross: PHP 100-150 per boat (up to 4 people). Snorkeling fee: PHP 100 per person. Mandatory guide for snorkeling: PHP 150. Snorkeling gear rental (mask, snorkel, fins): PHP 150.

Transport: Located in Barangay Bonbon, Catarman, on the western side of Camiguin Island. From Mambajao, it is approximately a 20-25 minute drive. Transport options include renting a scooter (PHP 350-600/day) or hiring a tricycle/motorela/multicab.

4. Sto. Niño Cold Spring

Sto. Niño Cold Spring offers a refreshing escape with its large, natural spring-fed pool where icy-cold, crystal-clear water continuously spouts from the sandy bottom. The spring, sourced from Mount Mambajao, is perfect for swimming and cooling down. There are also shaded picnic huts and a separate kiddie pool, making it suitable for families.

Cost: Entrance fee: PHP 75 per person. Table rental: PHP 150.

Transport: Situated in Barangay Mainit, Catarman, a few minutes uphill from the main highway. From Mambajao, it is about a 45-minute drive. Options include renting a motorbike (PHP 400-600/day) or hiring a whole-day tricycle (around PHP 800) or multicab/van/jeep tour (PHP 1500-2500/day).

5. Ardent Hot Spring

Nestled at the foot of Mount Hibok-Hibok, Ardent Hot Spring features naturally heated, mineral-rich pools. The warm waters offer a relaxing experience, especially after a day of exploring the island. The lush surroundings provide a serene atmosphere for unwinding. It is best to visit during weekdays to avoid crowds.

Cost: Entrance fee: PHP 30 per person. Sheltered tables and chairs rental: PHP 150 (optional).

Transport: Located in Mambajao, it is easily accessible. From Mambajao town center, a tricycle ride takes approximately 15-20 minutes (PHP 50-150 per person), or a habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) is about 15 minutes (PHP 100-150 per person). Renting a scooter (PHP 350-600/day) offers flexibility.

6. Katibawasan Falls

Katibawasan Falls is a majestic 250-foot waterfall cascading into a cold, clear rock pool. Surrounded by lush vegetation, including ferns and orchids, it provides a scenic spot for cooling off and enjoying nature's beauty. The area around the falls is well-maintained, with amenities like picnic tables.

Cost: Entrance fee: PHP 75 per person.

Transport: Located southeast of Mambajao, the island's capital. It is generally included in island tours. Transportation options include renting a scooter (PHP 350-600/day), or hiring a multicab (PHP 1500-2800/day) or tricycle.

7. Tuasan Falls

Tuasan Falls, though less visited than Katibawasan, offers a powerful and easily accessible natural spectacle. The waterfall is surrounded by serene natural landscapes, with recently improved roads making it convenient to reach. It’s ideal for those seeking a less crowded waterfall experience and a refreshing swim.

Cost: Entrance fee: PHP 50 per person.

Transport: Located in Barangay Mainit, Catarman, about 30 minutes from Mambajao. The best way to get there is by renting a scooter (PHP 350-600/day). Tricycles (around PHP 200 for a 30-minute ride from Mambajao) or jeepneys (PHP 40-50) are also options, or consider a hired multicab for a full-day tour (PHP 1500-1700/day).

8. Old Church Ruins (Gui-ob Church Ruins)

The Gui-ob Old Church Ruins are the haunting and atmospheric remnants of a 16th-century Spanish church, destroyed by the 1871 eruption of Mount Vulcan. The moss-covered walls and arches stand as a testament to the island's volcanic past and offer a glimpse into its colonial history. It is a popular spot for reflection and photography.

Cost: There is typically a minimal entrance fee or a donation for maintenance (some sources state no entrance fee, others mention a small fee).

Transport: Located along the circumferential road in Catarman, close to the Sunken Cemetery. Easily accessible by renting a scooter (PHP 350-600/day) or hiring a tricycle/multicab as part of an island tour.

9. Walkway to the Old Volcano (Stations of the Cross)

This paved walkway ascends the slopes of Mount Vulcan, leading to a large white cross at the summit. Along the path, life-sized statues depict the Stations of the Cross, offering a spiritual journey with panoramic views of the island, the Sunken Cemetery, and the surrounding sea. It can be a challenging but rewarding hike.

Cost: A small entrance fee of PHP 20 is sometimes mentioned, or it might be free.

Transport: Located near the Sunken Cemetery in Catarman. Accessible by scooter rental (PHP 350-600/day) or by hiring a tricycle/multicab. It is usually part of a full island tour.

10. Giant Clam Sanctuary

The Giant Clam Sanctuary in Cantaan, Guinsiliban, is dedicated to the conservation and propagation of various species of giant clams, including the endangered Tridacna gigas. Visitors can learn about these fascinating marine creatures through an educational tour and, more notably, snorkel or swim in the open ocean to observe them in their natural habitat. It's a unique opportunity for marine enthusiasts. (Note: Recent reports suggest potential closures due to property disputes, so it's advisable to check current status before visiting.)

Cost: Entrance and conservation fee: PHP 50-75 per person (includes an area tour of the clam laboratory). Clams viewing fee (with guide): PHP 150-300 per person (mandatory for snorkeling). Snorkel/mask rental: PHP 100.

Transport: Located in Cantaan, Guinsiliban, in the southern part of Camiguin Island, about an hour from Mambajao. Public transport is limited, so renting a scooter (PHP 350-600/day) is recommended for independent travel, or hiring a private vehicle like a multicab or van as part of a tour.

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