travel and tours for camiguin

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• Camiguin Day Tours

Camiguin is a small island, often overlooked by the majority of tourists in the Philippines. Once only accessible from Cebu via flight, or a grueling boat ride from several locations such as Bohol , now you could arrive to Camiguin by flight from Manila as well! This is wonderful news for those who wish to enjoy a vivid tropical island, with adventurous tours and day trips, and avoid the crowds of the busier islands.

Unlike the more touristy destinations , Camiguin offers much more exciting tours, that require a higher level of physicality and getting your hands a little dirty. In return, you’ll experience nature unspoiled and in the most authentic way. Also, unlike other off the beaten path destinations that are mainly frequented by locals only, it offers a much higher level of service and is suitable for international tourists as well. In our opinion, this is one of the best spots in the Philippines for people who like to experience lesser known islands and truly immerse with nature. Inquire Now About These Tours The tours we offer in Camiguin are done with the most professional guides and the best available vehicles. We offer tours in both a multicab, a Tuk Tuk type vehicle or a small van/car. The tours in Camiguin are long – a whole day trip, with the exception of Hibok Hibok Volcano track which is from dusk to the end of the day.

Camiguin Day Tours Quick Facts

• Prefect for : Nature lovers, most tours require good fitness level.
• Best time to visit : All year round (rainiest months are December and January)
• Tour packages include : Transportation, guide, entrance fees.
• Starting point : Hotel pickup.
• Duration : Whole day.

What to do?

As mentioned above, Camiguin is full of natural sites. Most notable are its hot and cold water springs, waterfalls, exquisite snorkeling spots, the volcanoes and beautiful islands with white and black sand beaches. As we stressed, a certain level of physical fitness is required, as you’ll have to swim, walk and climb throughout these day trips.

Unlike many other destinations that offer mainly island hopping activities, Camiguin also offers a lot of inland attractions that are typical of tropical and volcanic environments. Therefore, if you want to skip some of the activities, we advise that you’ll skip the island hopping, and visit the volcano, falls, and unique snorkeling spots like the sunken cemetery (that sunk due to the eruption of Hibok Hibok in 1871).

Camiguin Island Hopping Tour

The island hopping tour in Camiguin visits two different islands on two different sides of the main island. The first one is White Island, a snake-like sandbar in front of Pabua Rocky Village area. The second island is Mantigue Island, a relatively remote island on the eastern side of Camiguin. It takes about 30 minutes to arrive at Mantigue, and once there you’ll explore the small island, enjoy its beach and snorkel in its beautiful reef. The marine sanctuary in Mantigue is home to lots of fish, including a school of trevallies.

Because of the distance between the two islands, we’ll not use the same boat, and will travel through the mainland between the White Island Wharf, and our bangka boat on eastern Camiguin. As we’ll go through Mambajao, the biggest town in Camiguin, we will also have a short stop over where we’ll see the 1914 marker (that commemorates the unity of the villages into a township), and have the chance to buy souvenirs. The price starts at 50 USD per person for a group tour.

Inclusions: Multicab or van transport, hotel/seaport/airport pickup, entrance and environmental fees, shed and table rental, tour guide, 1 bottle of water per person, boat fee and light snack.

Camiguin Countryside Tour

This whole day tour of Camiguin's countryside is among the best out of any of the Philippine Islands because it showcases a lot of different iconic natural sites for a tropical island. Not only that it takes you to the inland of the island, you’ll also visit the most exquisite snorkeling spots. Due to the large number of places you’ll visit on this tour, prepare to spend around 9 hours outside, as well as a lot of energy.

We’ll start the day visiting Kibila White Beach in order to visit its giant clam sanctuary, where you’ll see numerous clams as big as 1.2 meters and weighing as much as 200 kg. From there we will continue to Katibawasan Waterfalls, 70 meters tall plunging into a pool you can swim in. We will visit three different water springs - Ardent Hot Springs, Soda Water Pool, and Sto. Nino cold spring Pool. We’ll also visit the old volcano, Tungatok viewdeck, Katunggan Park, and the Sunken Cemetery, where we’ll snorkel around the sunken graves older than 1871.

Inclusions: Transportation via Van/Multicab, entrance and environmental fees, tour guide, shed and table rental, boat fee to cross marker at Sunken Cemetery, 1 bottle of water per person.

Price: 50 USD for a group tour.

Combination Tour

For those who want to visit White Island, and prefer to skip Mantigue Island, or leave the serious island hopping to other destinations in your Philippines itinerary, we also offer a combo tour. You can visit Whitle island alone, and then continue to all major spot of the Camiguin Countryside tour except for the Giant Clam Sanctuary. Don’t worry as you’ll be able to see some giant clams in the Sunken Cemetery as well.

The tour inclusions are as of the Countryside tour as well as the boat and entrance fee to White Island. This tour is slightly more expensive and starts with 50 USD per person in a group tour.

Hibok Hibok Volcano Trek

Hibok-Hibok Volcano, a 1332m giant that overlooks the quiet town of Mambajao, offers a most exciting trek. This is the longest day trip we have in Camiguin, and also the most difficult one. You’ll start the day at 04:00, meeting our guide who will take you to the starting point of the trek.

You’ll then start ascending to the crater, which will take roughly 5 hours, where you’ll have a break to appreciate the flat grassland surrounded by a bamboo forest. Then you’ll hike to the old crater, which was blown away in one of the past volcanic eruptions, for a great view of White Island as well as other more distant islands including Mantigue. You’ll then start descending on a different route that ends at Ardent Hot Springs. Expect to arrive in Ardent Springs at 15:30-16:00.

As you climb up and down, you’ll go through the lush and dense tropical jungle. As you reach higher altitudes you’ll notice that the trees and plants change due to the difference in temperature. The peak and higher parts of the trek can be quite cold, especially on rainy days. Therefore it’s advised to bring a longer shirt with you. Also, you’ll have to bring your own water and food for the trek.

Please take no less than 2.5 liters and bring as much food as you wish. We think it’s better to take lighter things, and not saucy, messy meals. Bread and simple rice meals will be great. You could ask your resort to prepare it for you in advance as you won’t be able to buy food in the morning before you start.

The inclusions for this trek will be the guide, and the commuting fees. You will use public transportation for this tour, as it’s very convenient. It costs 75 USD per person in a group of 4 people.

How to plan my Camiguin tour package

Since we recommend to spend at least 3 nights in Camiguin, we think it’s best to have the first day free to get settled after the travel (also as you’ll mostly arrive in camiguin on a later part of the day). If you’ll have the time you could hit the beach, perhaps some of the unique black sand beaches. If you’re planning to take the Hibok Hibok Trek, the second day is the best so you’ll have time to recover from it, as it’s physically demanding. The third day will be perfect for either the island hopping or the countryside tours.

If you only have 3 days, we think that the countryside tour will be more rewarding, but if you stay for more time, you could do both, or perhaps take the combo tour instead. If you’re visiting other destinations in the Philippines that offer a variety of island hopping tours, it might be worthwhile for you to take the countryside tour in Camiguin over the island hopping one, as it’s not the specialty of the island. In case you are thinking about a longer or a multi-destination vacation in the Philippines, visit our vacation packages page for more ideas, or check our Camiguin Packages which all include these tours and can be easily combined with other locations.

A travel & food blog

Travel Guide to Camiguin + 3 Days Itinerary

First of all, let me say that Camiguin Island is an extremely underrated destination in Mindanao. I wasn’t expecting much seeing as most local travelers only go here on a day trip, but my friend and I decided to stay here for 3 days, and oh boy, was I blown away. In particular, I love the amazing snorkeling spots in Mantigue Island and Giant Clam Sanctuary. I also liked the mountain island vibes that I wouldn’t mind staying here for several days in the future.

A little background about Camiguin:

Camiguin Island is a pearl-shaped island in the northern area of Mindanao. It’s dubbed the “ Island Born of Fire ” since it was formed due to volcanic eruptions and earthquakes in the past. Interestingly, it has one of the highest densities of volcanoes in the world — with a land area of 282 square kilometers (92 square miles), it’s home to 7 volcanoes with Mount Hibok-Hibok considered the remaining active volcano.

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The island is blessed with nature attractions including white-sand beaches and sand bars, snorkeling and diving spots, natural hot and cold springs, and waterfalls tucked away in the mountains.

Here’s your complete travel guide to Camiguin Island! Don’t forget to read our separate post on Best Things to Do in Camiguin Island .

Via Mambajao Airport

Via laguindingan airport (cagayan de oro), via butuan airport, how to get around, what to see in camiguin, 3 days itinerary to camiguin, where to eat, where to stay, budget and expenses, where to book your camiguin tour, travel tips, what to read next:, how to get to camiguin.

There are different ways to get to Camiguin Island.

Camiguin has its own airport located in its capital Mambajao. Currently, flight schedules are only on selected days.

Cagayan de Oro is a common jump-off point to Camiguin Island. From Laguindingan Airport, it takes about 5 hours to reach Camiguin Island.

• From the airport, ride a van to Agora Terminal. Travel time is 45 min to 1 hour.
• From the terminal, ride a bus or van to Balingoan Port. Travel time is 2-2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can also ride a van in Gaisano Mall parking lot in the city proper.
• From Balingoan Port, ride a ferry to Benoni Port in Camiguin. Travel time is 1 hour. Ferry departs every hour, starting at 4:30AM to 6:30PM (last trip).

We suggest taking the bus instead of the van from Agora Terminal to Balingoan Port especially if you are the first passengers because waiting can take up to 45 minutes or more.

The earliest trip from Balingoan Port to Benoni Port is 4-4:30AM and the last trip back to Balingoan Port is 4PM.

• From Butuan Airport, take a taxi to the bus terminal.
• Ride a bus en route to Cagayan and get off at Balingoan Port. Travel time is 2 hours.

Camiguin Island is also accessible from Cebu and Bohol via ferry.

There are habal-habals, motorbikes, and jeepneys you can ride for commuting.

For the island tour, here are your options :

• Rent a motorbike. Make sure to bring your driver’s license.
• Avail of a habal-habal tour (good up to 2 people). For groups, you can also avail of a private car or multicab tour (seating capacity depends on vehicle type).

These are the top tourist spots in Camiguin Island , which you can explore during an island tour in 2 days.

• White Island . White Island is the most iconic tourist spots in Camiguin. It’s It’s a naked sand bar ideal for swimming and sunbathing, similar to Naked Island in Siargao . Mount Hibok-Hibok and Mount Vulcan can be seen in its backdrop. The best time to here is on weekdays, on mornings so it wouldn’t be too hot yet!

• Tongatok View Point . This is a viewdeck you can pass by on your way to the Walkway or Sunken Cemetery. It offers mountainside and coastal views. It’s easy to miss, but the guides are familiar with the island and know about this spot so just tell them you want to stop by here.

• Walkway to the Old Volcano . This is a hiking trail to the old volcano aka Mount Vulcan. Trek for 30-40 minutes to reach the summit, where you can see a view of the surrounding mountainside and ocean, including the Sunken Cemetery.

• Sunken Cemetery . This is a fantastic place for snorkeling. You can see different fishes, corals, and even giant clams! It’s also a popular place for sunset viewing.

• Sto. Nino Cold Spring . A cold spring to cool off from the summer heat. It has a large pool that goes up to 7 feet deep, with water coming down from Mount Mambajao. There are cottages and tables for rent inside the resort. There are also food stalls where you can buy food & drinks. Another place you can visit is the Saay Cold Spring .

• Bura Soda Spring . This is another spring pool area, with water that is said to taste like carbonated water. The pool isn’t as cold as that in Sto. Nino Cold Spring, so depending on your preference you might want to swim here instead. Fun fact: the resort has a tap where you can taste the spring water!
• Ardent Hot Spring . This resort features a cascade of six hot springs. Recently, the water from the springs have gone lukewarm. Local says a recent earthquake might have blocked the source of hot water. (This is the only place we skipped in our itinerary.)
• Old Church Ruins . Also called Guiob Church or Catarman Church. This is the remnant of a 16th-century Spanish Catarman Church, which was buried during the eruption of Mount Vulcan back in 1871. The eruption wiped out the island’s then-capital, Cotta Bato. You can still the main church structure, bell tower, and chapel. As with other buildings at that era, the structures are made with corals.

• Mantigue Island . This is one of my favorite spots in Camiguin Island, and I recommend that you allot several hours to snorkel around the island. Mantigue Island is considered a marine sanctuary — it is fringed with white-sand beaches and beautiful reefs. There are cottages in the island. Snorkeling gears are available for rent.

• Katunggan Mangrove Park . A small mangrove forest where you can see the species of black mangroves. There’s a pathway that goes around the mangrove park and cottages where you can sit down and rest. You can also swim in the water among the mangroves during high tide or in the open sea. It’s similar to the Mangrove Park in Bantayan Island in Cebu.
• Giant Clam Sanctuary . This is another one of our favorite places in Camiguin! It is home over a thousand giant clams. A guide will take you to the nursery area where there are young giant clams a few months old and then to the deeper part of the ocean where you can see giant clams spanning as much as 4 feet in length. The corals here are also impressive — they are HUGE and thriving.

• Tuasan Falls . This is a 25-meter-high waterfall located along the mountain roads in Barrio Mainit. It used to be a secret, but road developments have eventually led to its public discovery. Tuasan means “natuklasan” (discovered). The waterfall has a knee-deep basin where you can take a short refreshing dip.

• Katibawasan Falls . Katibawasan Falls is a 70-meter-high waterfall with a small man-made basin. The flow of water has weakened over the years, but it’s still worth visiting even if only for taking pictures. There are cottages around the waterfall where you can rest or have a picnic.

For other options, refer to our separate guide on the Best Tourist Spots in Camiguin Island .

Here is our 3 days itinerary to Camiguin. You can use this as a guide on your visit.

We spent 3 days in Camiguin which I feel is just enough. On our third day, we just rested in our accommodation in Bintana sa Paraiso.

Here are other things to note:

• If you’re coming from CDO city proper, it’s best to leave at 3-4AM so you can arrive at the island at 7-8AM. Similarly, if your return flight is via Laguindingan Airport in CDO, make sure that it’s a late-night schedule because the airport is about 5 hours away from Camiguin, not counting the traffic.
• I recommend spending at least 2 days here for the island tour. If you plan on doing other activities such as hiking or diving, extend your stay for a few days more.

There are various eateries in Camiguin. Here are the most recommended ones:

• Check Point Camiguin . A BBQ style restaurant.
• Hagahay Cafe . A restaurant that serves juices and smoothie bowls.
• Penisular Kape Art . A restaurant that serves Spanish dishes.
• I 8 See Food . A local favorite that serves seafood. Group meals are available.
• Daos Beach Bistro . A new restaurant serving delicious vegan food.

Most people stay in the capital of the island: Mambajao . It’s considered a tourist hub with resorts & homestays, restaurants, and shops. That saying, there are plenty of good accommodations around the island depending on your preferences.

We stayed in Bintana sa Paraiso – Binunsaran , which is a beautiful luxury mountain resort. We also wrote a separate guide for the Best Resorts in Camiguin .

Here are the rates in Camiguin ( Updated as of 2023 ):

Budget depends on how many you are in a group. For a group of 4-5 people, a safe budget would be P4000 per person.

We recommend getting the tour service of Kuya Lehmann of L&M Camiguin Tour Services . Kuya Lehmann was our guide during our 2-day island tour. He’s very friendly and professional and he gave us tips on how to maximize our vacation in the island.

He also offers complete packages including accommodation, transportation, and entrance fees and boat fees. You may also include meals and snorkeling gears you can use for the duration of your stay. Rate depends on the number of pax, so it’s best to contact him directly.

Let him know that I (Katherine / Tara Lets Anywhere) referred you!

Contact: Kuya Lehmann (L&M Camiguin Tour Services): Facebook | 09156498840

• It’s best to travel with a group to save costs. If you’re solo, you can share boat rentals with other joiners.
• Bring your own mask and snorkel so you can save money from rental fees.
• The best time to go here is during the summer months. During bad weather, boat tours may be cancelled.

For other inquiries, kindly refer to Camiguin Tourism Office .

Has this Camiguin Island travel guide and itinerary been helpful to you? If you have questions or suggestions, let us know in the comment section below!

Planning a trip to Camiguin? Here are our guides about Camiguin!

• Camiguin: Travel Guide and Itinerary
• Camiguin Tourist Spots + Things to Do
• Mantigue Island
• Giant Clam Sanctuary
• Best Resorts in Camiguin
• Where to Stay in Camiguin: Bintana sa Paraiso

Other related posts:

• CDO-Bukidnon-Iligan-Camiguin Itinerary

Get discounts on your travels!

Enjoy discounts with KLOOK using our promo code: TARALETSANYWHERE

Katherine Cortes is a long-time backpacker and a freelance writer/editor. She likes beaches, snorkeling trips, and relaxing staycations (preferably with bath tubs!).

Going there next week. This is a huuuge help! Thank you

Happy and Busy Travels

We’ll be doing this on June! Thanks for the tips 🙂

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THE 5 BEST Camiguin Tours & Excursions

Camiguin tours.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Private Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Walking Tours
• Motorcycle Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• Chinese (Simplified)
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. 11 Days in Philippines : Cebu-Bohol-Camiguin-Siquijor

2. Full-Day Private Camiguin Island Tour

3. Camiguin: 3 Days and 2 Nights

4. 11-Days in Philippines: Cebu-Bohol-Camiguin-Palawan-El Nido

5. 7 Days private tour in Philippines: Bohol-Camiguin

6. Camiguin: Transport - Car-Van-MotorBike

7. Camiguin Land Tour

8. Camiguin White Island Boat Hire

9. 8-Days in Philippines: Cebu-Bohol-Camiguin

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Bohol Waterfall Or River Mouth Stand Up Paddle Tour

Bohol Firefly Or Fullmoon Tour Stand Up Paddle Tour

Private Photo Session with a Local Photographer in Bohol

• Camiguin: 3 Days and 2 Nights
• 7 Days private tour in Philippines: Bohol-Camiguin
• 11-Days in Philippines: Cebu-Bohol-Camiguin-Palawan-El Nido
• Full-Day Private Camiguin Island Tour
• 8-Days in Philippines: Cebu-Bohol-Camiguin
• Black Beach Divers
• Johnnys Dive'n'fun
• Ajis Aqua Sports - Dive Special
• Camiguin Volcan Beach Eco Retreat & Dive Resort
• Camiguin Aviation

Camiguin Travel Guide

Discovering camiguin island: a comprehensive travel guide.

Dubbed the "Island Born of Fire," Camiguin is arguably one of the most exotic islands in the Philippines, boasting lush vegetation, a stunning White Island sandbar, and vibrant coral gardens. Considered an off-the-beaten-path destination, Camiguin is the perfect retreat away from the crowds.

Camiguin Island and Cagayan De Oro | 6 Days

Come to palawan.

Camiguin Island is Philippine’s hidden gem, a tranquil haven tucked away from the bustling resorts of Boracay and Bohol. The charming island is a blend of white sandbars , natural springs and waterfalls immersed in the lush vegetation to dramatic volcanic peaks .

The local people of Camiguin Island are very genunine and they wll greet you wil warms smiles and they will make you feel immersed in the authentic Filipino culture .

For adventure enthusiasts, Camiguin offer scuba diving adventures volcano trekking expeditions.

What to See in Camiguin Island:

If you’re planning a trip to Camiguin Island, don’t miss these must-visit places: Certainly! Here’s a brief description of each of those places:

White Island’s Sandbar

A stunning sandbar located off the coast of Camiguin Island in the Philippines, known for its pristine white sand and panoramic views of the surrounding turquoise waters and nearby volcanoes.

Mantigue Island

A small, picturesque island off the coast of Camiguin, offering crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and diving, as well as lush greenery and white sandy beaches ideal for relaxation.

Mount Hibok-Hibok volcano

An active volcano rising to 1332 meters on Camiguin Island, popular for trekking and hiking adventures, offering breathtaking views of the island and surrounding seascape from its summit.

Katibawasan Falls

A majestic waterfall located in the dense forests of Camiguin Island, characterized by its impressive height of around 70 meters and the refreshing pool at its base, perfect for swimming and picnicking.

Sunken Cemetery

A unique underwater site off the coast of Camiguin Island, where the remains of a cemetery submerged by volcanic activity in the 1870s can be explored by snorkelers and divers.

Ardent Hot Spring

A natural hot spring resort nestled at the foot of Mount Hibok-Hibok on Camiguin Island, offering warm therapeutic waters surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, making it a popular spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Mount Mambajao

A dormant volcano located in the heart of Camiguin Island, offering hiking trails through dense forests and scenic viewpoints overlooking the island and surrounding ocean.

Santo Niño Cold Spring

A refreshing natural spring pool surrounded by lush greenery on Camiguin Island, known for its cool, clear waters perfect for swimming and relaxing in a tranquil natural setting.

Old Spanish Church Ruins

Historical ruins on Camiguin Island, remnants of an old Spanish colonial-era church destroyed by volcanic eruptions in the 19th century, providing a glimpse into the island’s rich cultural heritage.

Tuasan Falls

A stunning waterfall nestled in the jungles of Camiguin Island, offering a serene escape into nature with its cascading waters and lush green surroundings.

Giant Clam Sanctuary

A marine sanctuary off the coast of Camiguin Island, home to a diverse array of giant clams and other marine life, offering opportunities for snorkeling and diving in pristine underwater ecosystems.

Bura Soda Water Park

A unique attraction on Camiguin Island featuring natural soda springs where visitors can enjoy bubbling carbonated water and relax in natural pools, surrounded by lush tropical gardens.

When to go to Camiguin Island:

The best time to travel to Camiguin Island is during the dry season, which typically occurs from March to May . During these months, the weather is generally sunny with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as beach hopping, hiking, and exploring the island’s natural attractions.

However, Camiguin Island can be visited year-round , as it enjoys a relatively stable climate compared to other parts of the Philippines. The months of December to February also offer pleasant weather conditions, although there may be occasional rainfall due to the northeast monsoon or “amihan.”

One of the most popular festivals in Camiguin is the Lanzones Festival , celebrated every third week of October in the municipality of Mambajao. The festival honors the lanzones fruit, which is abundant in Camiguin and is celebrated with street dancing, cultural presentations, and a grand parade featuring colorful costumes and floats adorned with lanzones fruits.

Getting to Camiguin Island

There are several ways to get to Cebu depending on your location and preference:

From Cebu, the easiest way to reach Camiguin Island is by air. The Camiguin Airport (also known as Mambajao Airport) is located in Mambajao, the capital town of Camiguin. You can fly from Cebu-Mactan airport to Camiguin Airport via Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific.

From Bohol, you can take a ferry from Jagna port. Jagna port is approximately a 2-3 hours drive from Tagbilaran. The ferry services are available to Balbagon Port in Camiguin. The ferry ride takes around 4-5 hours, depending on sea conditions.

From Cagayan De Oro

From Cagayan De Oro, you may opt to fly into Laguindingan Airport near Cagayan de Oro City. From there, you can take a bus or van to Balingoan Port (approximately a 2 hours drive) and then catch a ferry to Camiguin Benoni port. The ferry ride takes around 1 hour.

Recommended Tours

We recommend a stay in Camiguin Island of at least 4 days and 3 nights . One day can be dedicated to exploring the White Island’s sandbar and Mantigue Island. On another day, consider a full-day island tour to explore the highlands and interior areas. Trekking on the volcano can also be arranged for adventure enthusiasts.

All major sights are easily accessible from any point on the island via the scenic coastal road, which spans just 64 kilometers. You can rent a van or multi-cab with a driver for convenience, or opt for a motorcycle rental to explore the island at your own pace.

There is also an option to explore Camiguin & Cagayan De Oro for 6 days , where you can engage in adventure activities such as rafting, as Cagayan De Oro is known as the Philippine capital of rafting.

Where to stay:

In Camiguin Island, you won’t find sprawling beachfront resorts dominating the coastline. Instead, small-sized accommodations are scattered along the picturesque coastline or nestled amidst the lush mountain terrain, offering guests a unique and tranquil experience.

Nouveau Resort offers a luxury experience on Camiguin Island. Its 400-meter shoreline sits right across from Mantigue Island. As the largest resort on the island with upscale features and world-class accommodations, it provides guests with an unparalleled stay.

For those seeking a more intimate and personalized experience, Bintana sa Paraiso is a charming boutique accommodation. Known for its warm hospitality and breathtaking vistas, this delightful retreat promises a memorable escape. Bintana sa Paraiso consists of two properties: a mountain resort in Binunsaran and a beachfront resort in Naasag. Both locations, nestled in lush jungle, offer spectacular views of Mt. Hibok-Hibok and the surrounding islands. Bintana sa Paraiso offers rooms with a private pool and butler-style service to cater to your needs.

Read More...

Places to visit in Camiguin Island

How to plan a trip to Camiguin Island

Travel Blog

CAMIGUIN DIY TRAVEL GUIDE 2024 (Itinerary + Budget)

The white water kissed the shore as it washes away the grains of sand off my feet. The sound of the waves was resounding; the only sound I’ve been craving for to hear. The air was thick and salty on my skin but it felt good. I took a few steps and felt the brine up to my knees, making my heart beat faster as I take one or two more until my body is finally one with the ocean again. It is the only thing that my senses could perceive in the moment.

I closed my eyes and realized that this is just one of the many things that Camiguin has made me  perceive. There goes the sound of the waters falling gracefully from heights down to the basin of cold fresh water; the taste of the sweet fruit that is found everywhere in the island;  the sight of the vastness of the oceans, the skies and the land below as I stood up on the mountainside, the magical feeling of being surrounded by different schools of fishes and swimming with enormous turtles, the comfort of the warm waters in the hot spring and the refreshing ice cold waters of the other; and the sound of the locals who speak a familiar language with different accent from my own. My senses were all awake.

“I am here and now and this is no imagination nor a daydream. This is Camiguin.”

About Camiguin

The province of Camiguin was previously a part of Misamis Oriental until the late 1900’s. It is the smallest province of the Region X – Northern Mindanao and the second to the smallest in the Philippines. Albeit small compared to the other islands and provinces of the country, it holds and boasts a variety of gems – from beaches, marine sanctuaries, mountains and volcanoes, rivers, waterfalls, springs to historical and cultural sites.

Yet small, the island is a home to seven volcanoes in which one, Mt. Volcan (Mt. Vulcan), had the most remarkable and devastating eruption in 1871. This is the reason why the province is also dubbed as the “Island Born of Fire”.

The language that is spoken at large by the Camiguinons is Cebuano or Bisaya. They have their own language called Kamigin but only a few could speak and understand. This language is said to be a variety of the Manobo’s native language. Locals could speak fluent Tagalog and understand the English language, too, making the province a tourist-friendly one.

Places to Visit for a Camiguin DIY Trip

1. white island.

White island is but a sandbar of cream-white sand surrounded by clear turquoise waters. During low tide, the tourists can swim around it as there are thriving underwater creatures and life nearby. There are no shade providers but the big umbrellas that can be rented out. Environmental fee: Php 50.00 Boat rental: Php 450.00 for sharing (up to 4 persons per boat) Snorkeling gear rental at the boat parking: Php 200.00 to Php 250.00 (optional) Umbrella rental – Php 150.00 (optional) Mat rental (banig) – Php 50.00 (optional)

The boats won’t wait for you till you decide to leave. You’ll have to inform the boatmen as to what time would you want to go back to the main land since they return in there to pick up and drop off more tourists. There are no nipa huts but beach umbrellas only since it’s more like a long stretch of sandbar. Best time to visit is at 6:00 AM to 8:00 AM on sunny days.

2. Mantigue Island

Boat rental – Php 600.00 for sharing (up to six persons per boat) Activities in the island:  Swimming and Snorkeling (Entrance to the marine sanctuary) fee – Php 50.00 per head Dive Guide fee – Php 200.00 Glass boat rental (30 minutes) – Php 300.00 Stand up Paddle Board (30 minutes) – Php 250.00

Island Day-Tour Accommodation: Picnic Shed – Php 150.00 Long Table – Php 100.00 Short Table – Php 50.00

Lunch in the island: There’s a small convenience store in the island but only sells limited goods. If you prefer to have fresh food on your plates, you may opt to have them cook for you. They have meat (pork), chicken, shells and fish and you only have two options in terms of cooking it: grilled or with soup. A kilogram of it starts at Php 350.00.  A cup of rice is at Php 20.00.

The tourists should be reminded that they are given 4 hours to stay in the island. Should they go beyond the allowable time, they have to pay Php 75.00 per hour and per boat. Best time to go to Mantigue Island is in the morning til until noontime since waves get a little rough late in the afternoon.

Mantigue Island has a Marine Sanctuary. It is among the best diving spots I’ve ever dove into. During my visit, we saw schools of fishes of different species (there’s even a Barracuda), turtles and other small and colorful ones). An amount of Php 200.00 has to be paid to a guide. These guides can take you to the best spots of the marine sanctuary.

3. Tongatoc Cove

No Entrance fee A perfect spot to take photos overlooking horizon and the Tongatoc Cove

4. Katibwasan Falls

5. Ardent Hot Spring

6. Sto. Nino Cold Spring

7. Tuasan Falls

Entrance fee: Php 50.00 Tourists with the height of 4 ft and below: Php 25.00 Senior Citizen and PWD: Php 40.00 Compared to Katibwasan, Tuasan falls may be lower but the water cascades powerfully. Swimming is allowed except from the area where the water falls. There is a lifeguard stationed near the swimming area.

8. Soda Water Pool

Entrance fee: Php 50.00 Below 10 years old: Php 10.00 Senior Citizen: 24.00 Picnic Shed: Php 75.00

The Bura Soda Water Pool is known to have fresh and clean water. This isn’t just any typical pool with its waters where you can take a plunge and swim but you can actually drink from, too. Yes, you read it right, our local tour guide said that it tastes like soda. Worry not for you’re not going to take a gulp from the pool but there are drinking fountains with the waters continuously flowing. Free soda for everyone!

The Soda pool is closed every Monday because it is their cleaning schedule.

9. Old Volcano Walkway

10. Bonbon Church Ruins

Entrance fee: Php 10.00 Bonbon Church or the Old Gui-Ob Church Ruins is located at Brgy. Bonbon in Catarman. It has been among the remains of the town after the volcanic eruption of Mt. Volcan in an evening of May year 1871.

11. Sunken Cemetery

Things to do in Camiguin

Getting to, around and away, how to get there (camiguin diy guide).

Getting Around  (Camiguin DIY)

Where to Stay

2-DAY, 1-NIGHT CAMIGUIN DIY ITINERARY

2-day, 1-night camiguin diy budget, contact details for camiguin diy travel, things to remember when traveling to camiguin.

Anne Elizabeth Gumiran

Anne Elizabeth Gumiran, also known as Queenie, is a 20-something, full-time public school teacher, a part-time travel blogger and a freediver. She started putting her stories of adventures and misadventures into words and pictures in 2017 and continues to do so as she shares her advocacy, Sustainable Traveling.

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11 comments.

Quite informative and helpful. Big thanks!

How much is the antigen or is it free po? Thanks!

Rizalde G Guitang

How much is the antigen test?

This help a lot. .thank you so much.?

Hi, will be travelling around camiguin this weekend via camiguin airport. Do they have taxis or multicabs near the airport? The airport transfer from the hotel is too expensive kasi e

Hi, Joseph! There are few tricycle and multicabs passing by the exit but for a less-hassle transfer from a point to another, you can contact Kuya Jhun. Here’s his facebook account: https://www.facebook.com/juncabs.hugbaca

Lucille Kim Mertalla

Hello po, ask lang, as of 2023 (planning to go on April 4-6, 2023, need po ba meron booster shots?

To be honest, they’re not checking the vaccination cards anymore that much. If they do, they would often check only if you have the second dose already.

Melvin T. Laroa

Ma ‘am, good evening. Do you have any contact number for boat rental in camiguin island tour? Or can you recommend boat owners and their numbers? Thank you.

Hi! You won’t have to worry about reservation nor booking anymore for the boats especially if you’re going to White and Mantigue Island. There are boats by the jump off already and there are lots of them! 🙂

thanks for also including contact details! very informative post

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ULTIMATE CAMIGUIN TRAVEL GUIDE 2024: Budget & Itinerary

Are you planning a trip to Camiguin Island? Or are you debating adding this island to your Philippines itinerary?

This Camiguin DIY Travel Guide will tell you everything you need to know, including a suggested budget and itinerary, updated for 2024.

This post may contain affiliate links. This means that I earn a small commission if you purchase through a link on my site. Don’t worry, this is at no extra cost to you .

Camiguin is known as the Island Born of Fire, for its majestic volcanos that dominate the landscape.

Camiguin is slowly becoming a must-visit destination on many Philippines itineraries. Visitors are left in awe of its steaming hot springs, pristine waterfalls, black-sand beaches, and abundant marine life.

Possibly more suited to a Hawaiian landscape, Camiguin is home to many natural wonders totally unparalleled in the Philippines.

Furthermore, the local government’s emphasis on eco-tourism and conservation is a breath of fresh air in the modern world.

Despite this, Camiguin Island hasn’t been overwhelmed by tourism and still possesses a rustic laid-back charm. The slower pace of life, friendly locals, and unspoiled natural beauty will be sure to captivate you.

Including the top tourist spots, suggested tours, how to get there, accommodation, as well as a recommended itinerary, and budget, this Camiguin Travel Guide will leave no stone unturned.

This post will let you know everything you need to know for an unforgettable trip to Camiguin Island, updated for 2024.

Camiguin tourist spots & things to do

First up on this Camiguin Travel Guide are the best Camiguin tourist spots.

Despite being a small island, there are so many unique and fascinating things to do in C amiguin . Whether you’re an adventure lover, a beach bum, or a history fanatic, you will surely not be left disappointed.

From hiking volcanos, relaxing in hot springs, and exploring hidden waterfalls, to snorkeling vibrant coral reefs on paradiscial white-sand islands, Camiguin is home to many natural wonders.

Whether you plan on staying for a few months or simply want to know what to do in Camiguin for 3 days, these are the top tourist spots to add to any Camiguin itinerary.

Philippines Essentials Packing List

• Microfiber Quick Dry Towel
• Waterproof Dry Bag (With Waterproof Phone Case)
• Universal Travel Adapter
• Lightweight Waterproof Packable Rain Jacket
• Reef Safe 98% Organic Sunscree n
• High-Speed Charging Battery Pack

Katibawasan Falls

Hiding in the mountainous landscape and lush vegetation you will find Camiguin’s tallest waterfall, Katibawasan Falls.

Dropping an impressive 250 ft, visiting this breathtaking natural beauty is one of the best things to do in Camiguin.

Conveniently located in the tourist hub Mambajao, Katibawasan Falls is very easy to reach. Surrounded by dense green jungle, the tall but narrow cascade is a real sight to behold.

Spend some time marveling at Nature’s fine creation, take a refreshing dip in the swimming hole, or bring some snacks to enjoy a picnic in a stunning setting.

Full Post: Katibawasan Falls Camiguin: EVERYTHING You Need To Know

Mantigue Island

Mantigue Island is a Maldives-esque eco-tourism site located just 20 minutes off Camiguin’s eastern coast.

This protected marine sanctuary is one of the best snorkeling and diving sites in Camiguin. Mantigue Island boasts a lush vibrant green mini forest, powdery white sand, and crystal-clear turquoise waters.

As if that wasn’t enough, Camiguin Island and its dominant volcanos provide a breathtaking backdrop.

However, the real beauty lies beneath the surface, with some of the most vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life we have ever seen.

Mantigue Island is a real hidden gem and does not attract as many people as other popular Camiguin tourist spots.

Full Post: Mantigue Island Nature Park Camiguin: The COMPLETE Guide

Walkway to the Old Volcano

Any Camiguin Travel Guide would be incomplete without a mention of the island’s ever-present volcanos.

The walkway to the Old Volcano is an 8-kilometer path up Mt. Vulcan with 14 human-sized Stations of the Cross, showing Jesus Christ’s journey to crucifixion.

It serves as a religious pilgrimage site for Roman Catholics. We happened to visit Camiguin during Holy Week, where it is tradition for Filipinos to hike Mt. Vulcan for repentance.

Not just a popular Camiguin tourist spot for religious devotees, the stunning view from the summit makes this one of the best things to do in Camiguin for all travelers.

Offering panoramic views of the western side of Camiguin, you can even catch a glimpse of the iconic cross signaling the Sunken Cemetery in the sea from the top.

Enjoy sunrise and sunset each day from these bamboo beachfront cottages.

Located in the heart of Mambajao, each cottage comes with a balcony area and is just steps away from the ocean and private black-sand beach. 

Tongatok Cliff Viewpoint / Chan Lookout

Tongatok Cliff Viewpoint is another one of the best places to visit in Camiguin if you’re hoping to catch a breathtaking sunset.

This unobstructed viewpoint is located on the side of the road not far from Mambajao. Searching ‘Chan Lookout’ on Google Maps will bring you to the right location, as it can be easily missed.

When you arrive, you will be left in awe at the coconut-lined Tongatok Cove, crashing waves, and picturesque mountains dominating the backdrop.

Swing by Tongatok Cliff Resort next door for a drink whist you watch the sun go down. This is also one of the best places to stay in Camiguin.

If you’re a lover of sunsets and post-card views, this is a must-visit on any Camiguin itinerary.

Sunken Cemetery

Probably one of the most iconic and popular Camiguin tourist spots, you cannot miss a trip to the Sunken Cemetery off the western coast.

In 1871, Mount Hibok Hibok, one of Camiguin’s most active volcanos, erupted for 4 years and totally destroyed the town.

As a result, the part of the town that contained the cemetery subsided into the water and was pushed deep under the waves.

Later Filipino governments erected the cross in memory of the lives lost during this tragic chapter in history.

The Sunken Cemetery is therefore a poignant testament to the island’s rich history. As well as eery tombstones and underwater crosses, the area is home to abundant marine life and vibrant coral reefs.

Whether you’re interested in snorkeling in Camiguin or simply prefer to admire the cross against the tangerine sky from above the surface, the Sunken Cemetery is great for those looking to learn more about the island’s rocky past.

White Island

White Island is a powdery-white sandbar located off the northern coast of Mambajao.

With a phenomenal picturesque view of mountainous Camiguin in the background and crystal-clear waters, visiting White Island is one of the best things to do in Camiguin.

Full Post: White Island Camiguin: The ULTIMATE Guide

As this is one of the more popular Camiguin tourist spots, it tends to get quite busy. Being a sandbar, you are also totally exposed to the elements, with little shade.

I would therefore highly recommend visiting in the morning or late afternoon.

The main activities here are snorkeling in the turquoise waters, basking in the sunlight, and catching a tan.

Have you packed your Reef Safe 98% Organic Sunscreen?

Tuasan Falls

Located in the mountains of Catamaran, Tuasan Falls is another one of the best places to visit in Camiguin.

Although not as tall as the popular Katibawasan Falls, this pristine waterfall is located in the mountains and is surrounded by wild vegetation and greenery.

There are two swimming holes. A larger one where the thundering waters plunge into, and a smaller one which cascades down. The area is not so developed so the raw natural beauty has been preserved.

The clear waters with a tinge of blue are ideal for a refreshing dip and a great Camiguin tourist spot for nature lovers.

Have you got your Quick Dry Microfiber Towel?

Ardent Hot Spring

Another one of the best places to visit in Camiguin is the Ardent Hot Spring.

Located at the foot of and supplied by Mt. Hibok Hibok, the crystal-clear waters of Ardent Hot Spring reach about 40 degrees. These natural hot springs therefore provide the relaxation after an action-packed Camiguin itinerary.

Whilst the thermal waters are natural, the infrastructure has been man-made to provide a spa-like experience. The 4 different pools are surrounded by lush vegetation and picnic benches.

Furthermore, the sulfur in the water is said to have medicinal properties, great for muscle aches and body pain. As it can get quite hot, I would recommend visiting in the evening.

Agohay Beach

Agohay Beach is a black-sand fisherman’s beach located off the northern coast of Mambajao.

With the black sand as proof that you are standing on a volcanic island, this natural wonder is therefore a fascinating Camiguin tourist spot.

The beach isn’t designed for tourists, it is mainly a fisherman’s beach dotted with colorful boats. Furthermore, compared to the powdery white sands of the nearby islets, I would not recommend it for sunbathing.

However, with unobstructed views of nearby White Island and unique sand, this Camiguin beach has charm. The water is deep enough for a paddle and it is one of the best places in Camiguin for sunset.

Sto. Nino Cold Spring

The Santo Nino Cold Spring is another one of the best Camiguin tourist spots that you cannot miss.

This man-made swimming pool with natural spring water from the nearby Mt. Mambajao is the perfect place in Camiguin to cool down and rejuvenate after a busy day of sightseeing.

The fresh spring is a vibrant turquoise colour and very deep in areas. This therefore makes it perfect for swimming and diving to the bottom to check out the interesting rocks.

There is also a kid’s mini spring, so this is one of the best things to do in Camiguin for families too. You will find many benches, cottages, and even a restaurant.

Have you got your Waterproof Dry Bag? (with Waterproof Phone Case included)

Bike around the island

Biking around the island is another one of the best things to do in Camiguin.

As the second smallest island in the Philippines, you can bike around the island in about 2 hours. This is a great way to get off the beaten track and get a real feel for the island and its people.

As the center of the island is mainly dominated by mountains and volcanos, you can explore most of Camiguin’s main tourist spots by following the circumferential road around the island.

This road is mainly coastal meaning that you will be rewarded with stunning views of the turquoise ocean as you cruise around.

Old Spanish Church Ruins

Also known as Guiob Church, the Old Spanish Church Ruins is another one of the last remnants from the volcanic destruction of 1871.

When the town of Catamaran was submerged under volcanic ash and totally destroyed, the sturdy coral walls of the 16th-century church miraculously survived.

Interestingly, these are the oldest ruins in the country. They act as a powerful testament to the country’s colonial past and demonstrate the strength of religion throughout time.

This iconic landmark is one of the best places to visit in Camiguin for those interested in the Philippines’ rich historical background.

Conquer Mount Hibok Hibok

If you are an adventure lover and a fan of hiking, then you have to add climbing Mount Hibok Hibok to your Camiguin itinerary.

Furthermore, as the most active volcano in the Philippines, with the last eruption in 1951, the difficult terrain makes this an exciting challenge for the thrill-seekers and mountaineers among us.

Due to the volcano’s status as active, you will need to get a hiking permit and a local guide from the DENR Office in Mambajao.

The hike to the summit takes about 5 hours. Before reaching the summit, there is a shallow mossy lake created in the crater from the previous eruption.

If you are lucky with the weather, the views from the top are absolutely breathtaking and you can see many of the popular Camiguin tourist spots from a birds-eye perspective.

The Giant Clam Sanctuary does not appear on this list, despite being a popular Camiguin tourist spot. When we visited in April 2023, it was closed to visitors and seemed like it had been for a while.

Must Read: How To Get To Camiguin Island 2024: A Step-By-Step Guide

Camiguin tour packages

Next on this Camiguin Travel Guide are the very best tour packages and day trips.

You can opt for a multi-day tour package which comes with all activities and accommodation included.

This is a great option for travelers who want to have everything organised in advance for a totally stress-free trip.

Likewise, you can also opt for single-day tour packages that cover the main Camiguin tourist spots. This option is great for travelers who want a little more flexibility.

This package includes everything you need for 3 extraordinary days in Camiguin.

Includes entrance fees to all the main Camiguin highlights, as well as 2 nights accommodation, breakfast, and lunch.

Visit the main Camiguin land highlights, as well as the stunning White Island.

Including roundtrip transport, a private guide, entrance fees, and lunch.

Visit the main Camiguin highlights.

Including Tongatok Cliff, Walkway to the Old Volcano, Sunken Cemetery, Tuasan Falls, Katibawasan Falls, Sto. Nino Cold Spring, Soda Water Swimming Pool, and Ardent Hot Spring.

Explore White Island, Katunggan Mangrove Park, and Mantigue Island.

Roundtrip transportation, entrance fees, a private guide, and lunch included. 

How to get to Camiguin

Next in this Camiguin Travel Guide, we will cover exactly how to get there.

Whilst Camiguin can seem a little out of the way, reaching the island is fairly straightforward if you follow the steps below.

Camiguin can be reached from either Mindanao in the south or from Bohol/Cebu in the north. There are 3 main entry points; Camiguin Airport, Balbagon Port in Mambajao, and Benoni Port on the eastern coast.

You can read my full post on how to get to Camiguin Island from either Manila, Cebu, Bohol, Cagayan de Oro, or Davao here .

From Manila

S unlight Air is currently the only airline that offers direct flights from Manila to Camiguin. There are two per week at the following times –

• Thursday 10:00 AM
• Sunday 10:00 AM

This would be the quickest and easiest way to reach Camiguin Island from Manila.

The journey time to Camiguin from Manila by direct flight is  2 hours . Flights can cost anywhere between  $56 – $110 .

However, the most common option is to fly from Manila to Camiguin with a change in Cebu. There are many flights via Cebu every day with Cebu Pacific .

The journey time can range anywhere between  3 – 17 hours,  depending on the transfer time in Cebu.

Flights can cost anywhere between  $50 – $150 .

Flying from Cebu to Camiguin is the easiest and quickest way to reach the island.

There is one direct flight flight per day at  2:10 PM with Cebu Pacific.

The journey time is about  1 hour  and the fare is roughly  $33 .

Full Post: How To Get To Camiguin Island 2024: A Step-By-Step Guide

If you choose to take a ferry from Cebu to Camiguin, you will have to travel via Bohol as there are no direct ferries. I would highly recommend spending some time in Bohol and then heading to Camiguin after, to break the journey up.

First, you will have to take an Ocean Jet ferry from Cebu to Tagbilaran in Bohol. These ferries run all day every day, roughly every hour.

The journey time is  2 hours  and costs about  $17 . You can book this online in advance  here .

The ferry from Bohol to Camiguin does not depart from Tagbilaran Port but from Jagna Port instead. You will have to take a bus from the Dao Integrated Bus Terminal bound for Jagna to reach it.

Ceres Bus   runs this route all day. The bus journey to Jagna Port takes approximately  2 hours  and costs  100 PHP   ($1.79) .

You will then have to take a ferry from Jagna Port to Balbagon Port in Camiguin. The Bohol to Camiguin ferry schedule is as follows –

• Monday 1:00 PM
• Wednesday 1:00 PM
• Friday 1:00 PM

The journey time from Bohol to Camiguin is about  4 hours . You can expect to pay about  $13 .

Note: this journey cannot be booked online in advance and has to be booked at the port in Jagna.

From Cagayan de Oro

Getting to Camiguin from Cagayan de Oro will involve taking one bus and one ferry. Both the Cagayan de Oro to Camiguin ferry and bus schedules are super regular and do not need to be booked in advance.

In Cagayan de Oro, you will have to take the bus from the Agora Bus Terminal heading to the Balingoan Bus Terminal. This bus runs every 20 minutes.

The journey from the Agora Bus Terminal in CDO to the Balingoan Bus Terminal takes about  2 hours . The bus fare is  160 PHP ($3) .

Once you have reached Balingoan Port, the ferries to Camiguin run every 15 minutes. The ferry takes about  45 minutes  and costs  360 PHP ($6.50) .

How to get around Camiguin

For any Camiguin Travel Guide, it is necessary to know how to get around.

I would recommend a scooter as the best way to get around Camiguin Island and the Philippines in general.

The roads are very well-maintained and you can reach all of the main Camiguin tourist spots by following the circumferential road around the island.

We hired our scooter from our accommodation for  350 PHP   ($6)  a day. For further details, you can jump to it  here .

This seems to be the standard price in Camiguin. There are many places where you can find scooter rentals in Mambajao, but feel free to ask at your accommodation too.

The fuel in Camiguin is slightly pricier than on other islands, at about 90 PHP ($1.60) per liter.

The public transport in Camiguin isn’t great, so if you do not opt for a scooter, then I would recommend taking a tricycle.

Tricycles can be good for short journeys but you can hire a personal driver for the whole day for about 1000 PHP ($18) .

There are also jeepneys which are the most reasonable way of getting around the island, although not very reliable. You can find the jeepney departure point in Mambajao here .

Where to stay in Camiguin

Any Camiguin Travel Guide would be incomplete without accommodation.

When visiting Camiguin, the majority of travelers tend to stay in the tourist hub Mambajao. From here, you will be perfectly located near all of the main Camiguin tourist sports.

All of the accommodations listed will be happy to help you with tours, activities, or scooter rental. Here are the best places to stay in Camiguin for every type of budget –

Luxury accommodation in Camiguin

Bintana Sa Paraiso – perfect for those looking for a luxury getaway and paradise escape.

Located in Mambajao at the foot of Mt. Hibok Hibok, this accommodation offers one of the most jaw-dropping views in Camiguin.

Each room is a total oasis of tranquility with a balcony area and a private infinity pool overlooking the sea.

The modern and spacious rooms also come with a 24-hour personal butler service, as well as a mini-fridge and TV.

This resort also offers meditation, yoga, and massage services, as well as a delicious restaurant elevated above the beach.

Wake up in paradise and enjoy your complimentary breakfast with one of the most extraordinary views. They also have a mountain resort nestled amongst the lush jungle in the island’s center if this suits you better.

Prices start from about $100 per night.

Medium-budget accommodation in Camiguin

Tongatok Cliff Resort – nestled perfectly on the cliff’s edge, this Camiguin accommodation offers breathtaking panoramic views of the sea and nearby mountains.

The rooms at the Tongatok Cliff Resort have a private terrace, some with hammocks, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. Each room comes equipped with a TV, a fridge, and a tea/coffee maker.

The resort also boasts its own private beach area, a locally sourced restaurant, and a bar. Located to the west of Mambajao, you will also catch one of the most stunning sunsets here.

This is the perfect place to stay in Camiguin to get totally immersed in nature, unwind, and spend quality time in harmony with your surroundings.

Prices start from about $60 per night.

Budget accommodation in Camiguin

Borbon’s Treehouse By The Sea – these cozy bamboo beachfront cottages are located in the heart of Mambajao not far from the airport, but feel worlds away from the hustle and bustle.

These beautiful private cottages have a rustic feel, spacious rooms, and a private balcony area.

With its own black sand private beach, you are just steps away from the ocean. You can enjoy sunrise and sunset each day in this slice of tropical paradise.

The hosts are very accommodating and offer a shared kitchen fully equipped with everything you need. The owners are digital nomads, so all of the cottages boast super-fast wifi. Perfect for those who work from home.

Fall asleep to the sound of waves and enjoy your coffee with a stunning view each morning.

Prices start at about  $ 27.00  per night.

Recommended Camiguin Itinerary

Whilst you could opt for organised tours, I would always recommend a Camiguin DIY itinerary. Camiguin is a very small island, so you can visit most of the main highlights in a few days.

However, if you benefit from time, spending a week in Camiguin would be ideal. This is a laidback island with some beautiful accommodations, so it is the perfect escape to relax and unwind.

For this Camiguin Travel Guide, I will detail the perfect Camiguin DIY itinerary for 3 days.

Most ferries and flights arrive at Camiguin after 3:00 PM. I would therefore use this first evening to settle in, get your bearings, and organise a scooter rental if needed. The itinerary will start the following day.

For the first day of your Camiguin itinerary, we will be exploring the area of Mambajao.

• Morning – head to White Island as early as possible to enjoy snorkeling, sunbathing, and post-card views before it gets too hot. White Island is totally exposed with no shade, so visiting in the morning is best. Head for some breakfast afterward.
• Afternoon – after breakfast, head to Katibawasan Falls for a refreshing dip. You can either bring a picnic and have some lunch here or head to Blackmountain Cafe afterward for some food. Located just 15 minutes away from Katibawasan Falls further up into the mountains, this cafe offers one of the best views and delicious authentic coffee.
• Evening – unwind after lunch at the Ardent Hot Spring, fed by the nearby Mt. Hibok Hibok. These natural hot springs offer the perfect relaxation. After, head to Agohay Beach to appreciate the tropical black sand, colorful fishermen’s boats, and beautiful sunset.

On the second day of your Camiguin itinerary, we will explore the island’s western side and the Catamaran area.

• Morning – after breakfast, explore the Walkway to the Old Volcano and Stations of the Cross. Although not a strenuous walk to the summit, it can get pretty humid in the heat, so it is best to go early. You will be rewarded with stunning panoramic views from the top. From here, you can see the iconic cross that marks the Sunken Cemetery down below.
• Afternoon – if you were hoping to snorkel the Sunken Cemetery, this would be the time to do it. Grab some lunch and then head to the Old Spanish Church ruins to discover more about the region’s history. Afterward, take a refreshing dip in the Sto. Nino Cold Spring.
• Evening – on your drive back to Mambajao, stop off at Tongatok Cliff Viewpoint for one of the most breathtaking sunsets. Grab a drink in the Tongatok Cliff Resort next door and marvel at the changing colours of the sky.

On the final day of your Camiguin itinerary, we will be heading to Mahinog and the eastern side of the island.

• Morning – enjoy a slow lazy morning and grab some breakfast. After breakfast, head to Mantigue Island.
• Afternoon – spend the majority of the afternoon enjoying Mantigue Island. You can visit the island for up to 3 hours. Spend your time snorkeling or diving, sunbathing, and basking in the tropical vibes. It is great to relax and unwind on your last day in Camiguin.
• Evening – if your accommodation offers massages or any spa treatments, this could be a great opportunity to take advantage of them. Savour a delicious dinner on your final night and prepare for departure the next day.

Example Camiguin Budget

Important in any Camiguin Travel Guide is an estimated budget.

If you’re wondering how much to budget for a Camiguin trip, this is completely dependent on the type of traveler you are.

We stayed in reasonably-priced accommodation, cooked our own food instead of eating out, and did all of our tours DIY.

Our budget was about $30 per day ,  including accommodation, tours, scooter rental, and groceries.

For the average traveler, I would recommend a Camiguin budget between  $30 – $50 per day .

Example daily expenses

• Accommodation  – 700 – 5600 PHP ($12 – $100)
• Scooter Rental  – 350 PHP ($6)
• Mantigue Island Trip (boat, entrance fee, snorkel fee) – 625 PHP ($11)
• Lunch  – 300 PHP ($5)
• Katibawasan Falls Entrance – 80 PHP ($1.40)
• Coffee – 120 PHP ($2)
• Ardent Hot Spring Entrance – 50 PHP ($0.90)
• White Island (boat, entrance fee) – 625 PHP ($11)

When is the best time to visit Camiguin?

The best time to visit Camiguin coincides with the best time to visit the Philippines in general.

This would be in the dry season, from March – October. However, in general, Camiguin boasts a tropical climate and is generally hot all year round. We visited in March and had great weather.

I would recommend visiting for the annual Lazones Festival in October, a sweet tropical fruit Camiguin is famed for.

How many days do you need in Camiguin?

Camiguin is a very small island and you can visit most of the main tourist spots in a couple of days.

I would recommend 3 days in Camiguin to visit all of the highlights. However, if you are hoping to take advantage of this laid-back island to relax and unwind, then 5 – 7 days would be ideal.

Is Camiguin Island worth visiting?

A small but mighty island in the Philippines, Camiguin is most definitely worth visiting.

Camiguin is a unique island and boasts many natural wonders unparalleled in the Philippines. If you’re looking for a change of scenery and a true topical island feel, then Camiguin is the place for you.

The island hasn’t been overwhelmed by tourism and it remains a more off-the-beaten-path spot. This means the island maintains its slower pace of life and rustic charm.

What are the requirements for visiting Camiguin?

If you are visiting Camiguin Island either as a Filipino tourist or international tourist, you will need a Clean Camiguin QR Code.

Visitors can fill out the form before arrival by following this link here .

Is Camiguin safe for tourists?

Camiguin is a generally safe destination to visit and has one of the lowest crime rates in the whole of the Philippines. You will also find some of the friendliest and most welcoming locals.

Well, there you have it! This Camiguin Travel Guide has detailed everything you need to know for an unforgettable trip to this volcanic slice of paradise.

If you liked this post, feel free to check out my other handy Camiguin guides –

• 13 Must-Visit Tourist Spots & Things To Do in Camiguin
• Mantigue Island Nature Park Camiguin: The COMPLETE Guide
• How To Get To Camiguin Island 2024: A Step-By-Step Guide
• White Island Camiguin: The ULTIMATE Guide
• Katibawasan Falls Camiguin: EVERYTHING You Need To Know

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13 Must-Visit Tourist Spots & Best Things To Do In Camiguin

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ULTIMATE SIQUIJOR TRAVEL GUIDE 2024: Budget & Itinerary

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White Island Camiguin (2024 Complete Travel Guide)

Camiguin is a small island province of the Philippines just below Bohol, about a few kilometers off the northeastern coast of Mindanao. It’s considered one of the country’s most beautiful and unspoiled islands, with an abundance of natural attractions. One of the must-visit Camiguin tourist spots is White Island.

In this article, we’ll provide a complete travel guide to White Island including how to get there and the best time to visit. So without further ado, let’s get started!

Table of Contents

White Island At a Glance

White Island is a crescent-shaped, uninhabited white sandbar off the coast of Mambajao, Camiguin. The island is covered in fine white sand and surrounded by crystal clear blue waters. It’s a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.

Since there’s no shade on the island, make sure to bring an umbrella or a sun hat. There are also no facilities on the island so it’s important to pack your own food and water. Locals are also renting out umbrellas and picnic mats in case you forget to bring one.

Opening Hours [ Check Camiguin Tourism Office’s Facebook Page for the updated hours]: 5:00 AM to 5:00 PM (as of July 2022)

How to Get to White Island Camiguin

The best way to get to White Island is by boat from Mambajao. The boat ride takes about 10 minutes. Find the White Island Ferry Terminal right next to Paras Beach Resort. It’s easy to find, just ask around.

The boat ride costs P550 (good for 4 persons) roundtrip. You’ll also need to pay a P50 entrance fee per person.

Best Time to Visit White Island Camiguin

Best Months to Visit

The best time to visit White Island is during the dry season which is from February to May. The water is calm and clear, and the weather is perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Best Time of the Day to Visit

To avoid the heat

The island is pure sand, so there’s no shelter from the sun. To avoid the heat, it’s best to visit in the early morning (5:00 AM to 7:00 AM) or late afternoon (3:00 PM to 5:00 PM).

To avoid the crowd

We visited White Island at 5:30 AM on a Wednesday and there were a lot of people. Tourists kept pouring into the island up until 8:00 AM. Since we stayed in Guerrera which is directly facing the island, we saw how there were fewer tourists from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. If you can endure the heat and want the island to yourself, these are the best hours to visit.

What to Bring When Visiting White Island Camiguin

Be sure to bring:

• Beach towel
• Water (at least 1 liter per person)

Things to Do in White Island Camiguin

Go swimming

The water is so clear and perfect for swimming! Don’t forget to put on sunscreen, though. The sun is very strong even in the morning. There are areas where the current is strong, so be careful.

Go snorkeling

If you have your own snorkeling gear, bring it and explore the water around the island!

Take lots of photos

The island is so photogenic! Every angle is Instagram-worthy. But the best one for me would be a background of Mt Hibok Hibok. Be sure to take plenty of pictures to capture the memories.

Relax and enjoy the view

After swimming and taking photos, it’s time to just sit back, relax, and enjoy the spectacular view. The sound of the waves crashing against the shore is so therapeutic.

Eat Sea Urchin

You’ll find a few locals selling sea urchins ready for snacking. They’re quite affordable. They taste a little salty, but it’s an experience worth trying! They’ll open the sea urchin in front of you and provide you with a small spoon.

You have the option to eat it as it is or put some vinegar on it. Different parts of the country have their own version of local vinegar. The one in Camiguin? It was super yummy! Reminds me of the one we had when we went island hopping in Mactan .

White Island is the perfect place to work on your tan! The sand is so fine and white that it feels like powder. And since it’s a sandbar, there’s no shade at all. So be sure to put on sunscreen and drink plenty of water to avoid heat stroke. Spread out your towel on the sand and relax.

Where to Stay in White Island Camiguin

Since it’s a sandbar, there are no accommodations on the island. The nearest place to stay would be in Mambajao, which is about 10 minutes away by boat.

Some of the best places to stay near the White Island Ferry Terminal are:

• Bintana Sa Paraiso
• Balai sa Baibai
• Paras Beach Resort
• KURMA Freedive Camiguin Eco Lodge & Resto
• Guerrera Beach Villa – This is where we stayed. They have the best pad thai!

FAQs About Visiting White Island Camiguin

Is White Island worth visiting?

Yes, definitely! It’s one of the most beautiful and unspoiled sandbars in the Philippines. The water is so clear, and the sand is powdery white. It’s a great place to relax, swim, and take lots of photos. Plus, you also get to see an amazing view of the mountains from the sandbar.

Is White Island safe to visit?

Yes, it is. There are no dangerous animals on the island, and the water is generally safe for swimming. However, there are areas where the current is strong, so be careful.

What is the best time of day to visit White Island?

The best time to visit is in the early morning (5:00 AM to 7:00 AM) or late afternoon (3:00 PM to 5:00 PM). These are the cooler hours.

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Camiguin itinerary: 10 best camiguin tourist spots and things to do (travel guide blog 2024 for first-timers).

Planning a trip to Camiguin this 2024? Here are my top 10 things to do in Camiguin, tourist spots and best places to visit for your Camiguin itinerary!

Are you ready to explore camiguin let's get started, 2024 camiguin travel guide blog for first-timers (updated) - things to do in camiguin, tourist spots & places to visit.

TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN CAMIGUIN, TOURIST SPOTS & ATTRACTIONS

1. visit the giant clams ocean nursery in cantaan.

2. Climb the Old Volcano Trail

3. Visit the Old Catarman (Gui-ob) Church Ruins in Bonbon

4. Swim at the Springs

View this post on Instagram A post shared by AinoHuntPrmtLanto (@ainohunt)

5. Marvel at the beauty of the Cross Marker and Sunken Cemetery

6. See the Ancestral Houses

7. Beach bumming at White Island or Sandbar

8. Spend a day at Mantigue Island

9. Swim at Katibawasan Falls

10. Bring home some boxes of Pastel de Camiguin and Lanzones

View this post on Instagram A post shared by DIANE GUTIERREZ🌷Dhada|Yan|Dee (@dhadayanyan)

OTHER THINGS TO DO IN CAMIGUIN, TOURIST SPOTS & PLACES TO VISIT

• Join the festivities on the annual Lanzones Festival
• Hike Mt. Hinok hibok
• Enjoy Tuasan Falls
• Dive and see Burias Shoal
• Enjoy the view at Tungatok Viewdeck
• Chill at Bura Soda Pool
• Enjoy a day of adventure at Taguines Lagoon
• Go on an Eco-Adventure at Mount Mambajao
• Enjoy a Day at Binangawan Falls

WHERE TO STAY? Hotels and Beach Resorts in Camiguin

Other Hotels and Beach Resorts in Camiguin

• Balai sa Baibai Resort √ See room rates and availability
• Bintana Sa Paraiso √ See room rates and availability
• Havendwell Beach Resort √ See room rates and availability
• Marianita's Cottages √ See room rates and availability
• Villa Corrales √ See room rates and availability
• Taylor’s Country Home √ See room rates and availability
• Lanzones Cabana √ See room rates and availability
• Nouveau Resort Camiguin √ See room rates and availability
• Paras Beach Resort √ See room rates and availability
• Kinghorn Garden House √ See room rates and availability

SAMPLE CAMIGUIN ITINERARIES

Camiguin day tour itinerary, camiguin itinerary (2 days & 1 night).

• Arrival in Camiguin
• Meet-up with your tour guide
• Proceed to your booked resort or hotel √ Click here to see available hotels & resorts in Camiguin!
• Early check-in or just leave your bags
• Enjoy White Island and Sandbar
• Visit Cantaan Giant Clams, Old Volcano Trail and Old Catarman Church Ruins
• Go to the Sunken Cemetery and enjoy the sunset
• Go back to your hotel or resort
• Visit Katibawasan Falls
• Go to Mantigue Island
• Go back to your hotel/resort to freshen up
• Pasalubong and souvenir shopping
• Proceed to the port or airport

Tour Guide in Camiguin & Transportation

Contact details:.

• Mobile Number: 0905-956-6288
• Facebook: Joewanie Ocular

CAMIGUIN TRAVEL BLOGS

• How to get to Camiguin? √ CLICK HERE
• Camiguin Day Tour √ PART 1 | PART 2
• Camiguin Travel Guide √ CLICK HERE

Camiguin Travel Requirements and Entry Protocols

I hope this camguin travel guide helps certainly, camiguin is blessed with natural wonders and historical landmarks. there are just so many things that you can do and experience in camiguin that will surely make your trip enjoyable it will make you say "i will come again, camiguin".

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2 comments :.

Gusto ko bumalik dyan para lang sa hot and cold springs! :D

Nice and helpful post

Looking for Budget Travel Guide Blogs, Hotel Reviews, and Sample DIY Itineraries? Welcome to Pinoy Adventurista, "Your Next Ultimate Adventure Starts Here!" Pinoy Adventurista is one of the Top Travel Blogs in the Philippines and the World. In 2013, he visited all the 81 provinces in the Philippines.

Camiguin: 2500 PHP Budget Travel Guide and Itinerary

WHAT'S IN THIS GUIDE?

DID YOU KNOW?

Camiguin is known as the “ Island born of fire “. Basically, that’s just they believe that the island is made from volcanic eruption and land movements. It has a total of seven volcanoes including Mount Hibok-Hibok, an active one with last recorded eruption in 1953.

It is near between Bohol Province and Cagayan De Oro Province.

It is home to the famous Sunken Cemetery and Guiob Old Church Ruins .

Traveling to Camiguin for the first time?  This detailed and curated travel guide will make it easy for you to plan a trip, save money and maximize your time. This guide will also make sure that you get the best out of your money while travelling in Camiguin.

Scroll down to read must-know travel tips before you go, followed by a sample itinerary + budget breakdown , recommended hotels/places to stay , things to do/places to visit and lots of extra travel tips.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by S H E L L E Y (@shellwanders) on Jun 14, 2019 at 5:09am PDT

Get Started

How to get to Camiguin  — By plane, Camiguin can be reached on a 30 minutes to one hour flight from Cebu. It serves direct flights to popular domestic destinations including Davao, Cagayan de Oro and Manila.

Always book your hotel early  — Avail low rates and avoid fully-booked rooms by booking online as soon 2-3 months before your travel departure. Click below to compare discounts and read reviews by other travelers.

Check discounts and prices online  — Save money by checking discounts on tours & airport/hotel transfers. Booking before you leave also saves you time & avoids the hassles of bringing large amounts of cash during your actual trip.

Camiguin 3G/4G internet data sim card & pocket WiFi rental

🏷️ 12% OFF 4G/3G WiFi (MY Airport Pick Up) for Philippines

🏷️ 5% OFF  4G WiFi (MNL Airport Pick Up/Delivery) for the Philippines

Spend 2 days or more  — While it’s possible to explore the highlights of the city in a day, consider planning at least 2 days to tour the island. Go for 4 days for a more relaxed trip.

Save More while Traveling  — I’ve included a lot of money saving tips on this guide. You can actually save more when you do not include attractions that has entrance fees. You can achieve cheaper expenses by knowing where to find and book the attractions.

Getting around Camiguin  — There are a lot of transport and tour options available whether you want to go with a private tour or a do-it-yourself trip. You can even go full local and try the motorcycle/tricycle commute to get around or stick with packaged tours that can offer a hassle-free experience. Grab is not offered in this area.

See more blogs & travel guides

Travel Guide to Old Church Ruins

Travel Guide to Ardent Hot Spring

Travel to Sunken Cemetery

Travel Guide to Walkway to the Old Volcano

Travel Guide to Camiguin White Island

Pre-Travel Guide

✓ How to get to Camiguin ✓ How to get around Camiguin? ✓ Should I book my Camiguin hotel online? ✓ What to prepare for a trip to Camiguin? ✓ How to find cheap flights to Camiguin? ✓ When is the best time to visit? ✓ Travel Must Haves ✓ Money-saving tips

How to get to Camiguin

Direct Flights from Manila,Cebu, Davao and Cagayan de Oro are being served. Flights are operated by Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines and AirAsia.

✓ ENTRY POINT MANILA (NAIA)

◾By Airplane (Cebu pacific or Philippine Airlines)

Manila to Cebu then to Camiguin. 1 stop at Cebu.

✓ ENTRY POINT CEBU (Mactan Cebu International Airport)

Direct flights from Cebu to Camiguin.

✓ ENTRY POINT CAGAYAN DE ORO (Laguindingan Airport)

◾ By Van or Bus

At Cagayan De Oro Airport (Laguindangan Airport) ride a van to Agora Market terminal. Travel time is 30-45 minutes. Fare is about Php 199 or $4.00.

Enter Agora Terminal. Ride a bus or van bound for Balingoan Port. Don’t forget to tell your driver to drop you off at Balingoan Port.  Travel time is around 2.5-3 hours . Bus Fare is about Php 150 or $3.00 .

Ride a ferry from Balingoan Port to Benoni Port,Camiguin. Travel time to Camiguin is  1.5- 2 hours .  Ferry Fare to Camiguin is Php 170 or $3.4.   Please take note that an additional Php 5 or $0.1 for terminal fee and Php 4 or $0.08 for Environmental fee are collected.

From Benoni Port, there are vans, jeeps and multi-cabs to Mambajao Town Proper.

At Cagayan De Oro Airport (Laguindangan Airport) hail a taxi to Balingoan Port. If you want to save money, choose the regular metered taxi or don’t choose the YELLOW TAXI.

Ride a ferry from Balingoan Port to Benoni Port,Camiguin.  Travel time to Camiguin is  1.5- 2 hours .  Ferry Fare to Camiguin is Php 170 or $3.4.   Please take note that an additional Php 5 or $0.1 for terminal fee and Php 4 or $0.08 for Environmental fee are collected.

✓ ENTRY POINT BOHOL

◾ By Ferry/Boat

Ride the a ferry (Super Lite Ferries) from Jagna, Bohol to Balingoan Port, Cagayan De Oro. It will costs you around Php 500-900 or $10-18 with a travel time of 7 hours .

Ride a ferry from Balingoan Port to Benoni Port,Camiguin.  Travel time to   Camiguin is  1.5- 2 hours .  Ferry Fare to Camiguin is Php 170 or $3.4.   Please take note that an additional Php 5 or $0.1 for terminal fee and Php 4 or $0.08 for Environmental fee are collected.

MAP ON HOW TO GET TO CAMIGUIN

How to get around Camiguin

1.By Habal-Habal or known as Motorcycle

For short distance ride, it will costs you around Php 10 or $0.2 . For long distance ride, like camiguin white island to ardent hot spring, will costs you around Php 200 or $4 .

Much better if you can drive it yourself. It will costs around Php 400 or $8 per day .

If you want to rent the motorcycle with a driver then this will costs you around Php 800 or $16 per day .

2.By Motorela or one of the locals mode of transportation

There is an eastbound tricycle and a westbound tricycle which you can ride at the market or at the highway.

It will costs you around Php 8 or $0.2

It can accommodate up to 8 passengers .

Most fares costs around Php 30 or $0.6 .

It can accommodate up to 10-13 passengers .

If you want to rent tour the island using the van, it will costs you around Php 2000-2500 or $40-50 per day .

Most fares costs around Php 25 or $0.5 .

It can accommodate up to 13-15 passengers .

If you want to rent tour the island using the jeep, it will costs you around Php 2000-2500 or $40-50 per day .

5.By Multi-Cab

Most fares costs around Php 30 or $0.6.

It can accommodate up to 8-10 passengers .

If you want to rent tour the island using the multi-cab, it will costs you around Php 1500-1700 or $30-34 per day .

You can contact our Multi-cab driver thru 0965-235-9892 .

Should I book my Camiguin Hotel Online?

My answer will always be YES . You can save money by checking discounts online. Booking before you leave also saves you time & avoids the hassles of bringing large amounts of cash during your actual trip.

What to prepare for a trip to Camiguin?

Sunblock — If you don’t have a plan in getting yourself tan, then bring some sunblock to protect your skin from the suns UV rays.

Hats and Eye wear  — Protect your eyes from the heat of the sun.

Cellphone Waterproof Case  — Philippines nationals can enjoy visa-free travel in Camiguin, for up to 30 days.

Rent a GoPro – If you are in Cebu, my friend can rent you one here .

How to find cheap flights to Camiguin?

Start your search on  Wego, Momondo, and Skyscanner .

Also, check Camiguin promo alerts several weeks or months ahead of your trip if you are planning your trip early. The cheapest promos are sold up to a year in advance of the travel/flight departure date & are often only available if you book directly with the airline.

When is the Best Time to Visit?

In my experience, March – June and October are the best months to visit Camiguin.

Travel Must-Haves

✓ Google Map App – A life-saver for me because without it, I might get lost.

✓ Google Translate – Super powerful app. Translate anything.

✓ Gps-Guided App – Tour the city like a local with this app.

✓ Sunscreen – Protect yourself from sunburn or much worse – Cancer.

✓ Pocket Wifi or Sim Card – The convenient of searching anything is a go-to. Please don’t forget this baby. It is a life-saver for me though.

Money Saving Tips

Get a good map and explore the city on your own tour  — You can tour the city at your own pace plus you can choose from a variety of options. There are a lot of awesome things to do in Camiguin that doesn’t cost a dime.

Drive a motorcycle  — This is the cheapest way to get around.

Stay at hostels   or airbnb — If you are travelling alone or by group of 3, hostels are best for you. But, if you are travelling in group of 4 or more, then airbnb is best for you. I have calculated the difference and airbnb ones are best for group of travellers.

Where to Stay in Camiguin

Me and my friends personally stayed at Camiguin White Island Beach Resort . Our room was named Amakan. The room is made of wood.

It costs around Php 2500.00 or $50  good for 5-8 pax per day.

Check availability of hotel and room rates here

You can contact the owner of the Resort thru 0917-794-7896 .

For more info about this place check this guide here .

Click below to compare rates on Camiguin hotel/hostels or apartments within your budget.

Where to book

Book your room through these trusted booking sites. I use them frequently to avail cheapest prices & enjoy convenient bookings. Click below to confirm the lowest prices:

3D/2N Camiguin Itinerary

I just took a glance at the articles of places to visit in Camiguin because the brother of my friend happens to be there ahead of us. So, I did just go with the flow. Actually, we do not have any itinerary before we land in the island.

I just made the itinerary just by picking the places near us. So without further ado, presenting you our Itinerary!

Day 1: Camiguin En Route, Ardent Hot Spring and White Sand Bar Sunset (Prepare to get wet!!)

Day 2: Camiguin Island Tour

Day 3: Going Home

Take note that during our 3rd day, we intend to buy Lansones and Pastel at the Mambajao Town Proper. We did not expect that the market there was a bit expensive compared to the Terminal in White Island. In the end it was okay because we bought Pastel at an affordable price.

My friends also wants to tour Mantigue Island but did not have the chance because of time constraint! Well, I have booked the airplane ticket first before setting up the itinerary! Just sooooo me! 🙂

3D/2N Camiguin Budget Expenses  (for 7 people)

Your travel expenses will largely depend on your traveling style and how much you plan to spend on activities, accommodations & food. To help you set your own budget, here are budget estimates if you follow the 3 days and 2 nights (3D2N) itinerary posted above. Make sure to review all discounts & online booking prices.

Prices below are ‘per person’, calculated based on a group of 7 people sharing the travel expenses.

Other fees:

1300 php –  Philippine Airlines Fare (Cebu-Camiguin and vice versa) (199 peso sale)     40 php – lansones ice cream   400 php – souvenirs (ballpens and ref magnet bought at White Island Terminal)  200 php – for food pasalubong (Uncooked Chicharon Pusit bought at Old Church Ruins)  656 php – souvenirs (Bag, t-shirt and ref magnet bought at Sto.Niño old Spring)   300 php – food pasalubong (pastels bought at mambajao town proper)   465 php – food pasalubong (Cheese sticks bought at Pasalubong sa Camiguin)  3361 php or $68 

Further Breakdown of Expenses for:

Camiguin White Island Beach

450.00 php – Pumboat 1 fee 450.00 php – Pumboat 2 fee 150.00 php – Umbrella   50.00 php – Entrance fee per person (multiplied by 6)   1350 php or $27

Snorkeling at Catarman Pasil Reef/ Sunken Cemetery

100.00 php – Environmental fee per head (multiplied by 7) 150.00 php – Guide 1 fee 150.00 php – Guide 2 fee  50.00 php – snorkel gears per head (multiplied by 7)   1350 php or $27

Places to Visit in Camiguin

Check out these top tourist spots, best places to visit & things to do in Camiguin.

1. Ardent Hot Spring

2. walkway to the old volcano, 3. sto. niño cold spring, 4. tuasan falls, 5. white island, 6. katibawasan falls, 7. sunken cemetery, 8. tres marias mountain, 9. viewpoint, 10. old church ruins.

Ardent Hot Spring  is one of Camiguin’s hot springs and the most popular natural pool with the waters truly hot especially at the shallowest point as what they say.  Needless to say the springs are waters directly from the slopes of the nearest active volcano – belching up from the islands core.

The Walkway to the Old Volcano and Stations of the Cross are laid out in a stairway ascending all the way up to the top where the old volcano is located. A concrete stairway will greet you firsthand and the rest of the steps are sandy.

Santo Niño Cold Spring is a natural cold spring that flows down from Mt. Mambajao and is filtered by layers of minerals from the mountain, therefore it is naturally clean.

Tuasan Falls,  one of the 2 falls that our driver/ tour guide recommended. Tuasan is located about 8 km from the provincial of Camiguin. It belong to the municipality of Catarman. Tuasan is a local dialect of water that fall.

White island is particularly small and can be easily erased during high tides. It is located at the town of Mambajao. Those who visit Camiguin wouldn’t want to miss this place and cross the blue seawater to visit this beautiful white sand bar.Plus it is just a short boat-ride from the white island port.

Katibawasan Falls,  one of the 2 falls that our driver/ tour guide recommended. It is located at the foot of Mt. Timpoong, Barangay Upper Pandan, approximately five kilometers southeast of the Municipality of Mambajao. Katibawasan Falls elegantly and gracefully drops its cool waters to a wide pool where tourists are having the time of their life. It can be reached through a very short trek from the road.

Have you ever wonder what lies beneath the sunken cemetery? 

Today, the Sunken Cemetery is perhaps the most photographed attraction in the province, especially when set against a sunrise or sunset. It is the only cemetery in the world that is placed under the sea with many corals surrounding it.

Can you find the hills? I am not quite sure if these hills can be explored.

The locals just calls this viewpoint. Maybe because the view is on point?

Guiob Old Church Ruins , 16th century church destroyed in 1871 when Vulcan Daan in Camiguin erupted. These ruins survived the eruption and one can see corals interspersed on its walls as one of its foundations.

Other Places to explore : Mt. Hibok Hibok, Dine at Guerrera Restaurant, Dine at Checkpoint, Soda Spring and Swim at Mantigue Islands.

|Related Post : 20 Places to Visit in Camiguin

They have Lanzones Festivals. It occurs every October. They harvest Lanzones on this month.

For me, I wanna avoid this month if I intend on visiting the place only because it gets so crowded on that month. Trust me!

For people who loves festival and want to experience their culture firsthand then fly in October!  😆 

MAP TO HELP YOU GET AROUND CAMIGUIN

Did you visit any Island? How was it? Try Camiguin Island too!

DID YOU ENJOY THIS POST? PIN IT FOR LATER!!

Shelley Mae

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Travel guide to sunken cemetery of camiguin, philippines.

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Jennifer Loftin

Thanks for all of the great information! I never knew about this island before…now I’d love to plan a visit:)

shellwanders

You’re welcome. I hope you get to visit it someday! 🙂

Thanks for all of the great information! I never knew about this island before…now I’d love to plan a visit:)

Jergens Omo

i want to visit this island too.

Prince Kean

Great share! Might you need more updates about our hometown, feel free to reach me at site https://princekean.wordpress.com/

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CAMIGUIN: Budget Travel Guide

The cold wind that blew as I stood at the balcony of our hotel was quite a refreshing surprise. Although the sky was bright and the sun was inching its way from the horizon, the temperature remained friendly in the shadows of Mt. Hibok-hibok, the most prominent landmark in Camiguin.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

Camiguin: The Island Born of Fire

Camiguin is the smallest province in Mindanao and the second smallest in the Philippines. But don’t judge it by its size. Often dubbed the Island Born of Fire, Camiguin harbors seven volcanoes, including Mount Vulcan and Mount Hibok-hibok. Its landscape has been continuously shaped and reshaped by volcanic activities, giving this island paradise countless natural attractions.

These restless volcanoes also play a part in the molding and evolution of the province’s culture. Although often quiet, Camiguin has experienced its volcanoes’ many violent rumblings that have changed the way its people live. Despite its fiery past, the island remains enchanting and intriguing especially with attractions like the Sunken Cemetery and the Old Catarman Church Ruins.

Yes, Camiguin may be small but it is big in beauty and wonder, making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway.

Top Resorts and Hotels in Camiguin

Based on Agoda review scores.

• Balai sa Baibai Resort. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Marianita’s Cottages. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• D & A Seaside Cottages. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• YSLA Beach Camp and Eco Resort. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• TheView Camiguin. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Lanzones Cabana. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Search for more Camiguin Resorts!

How to get to camiguin.

Flights via Cebu. Camiguin has its own airport that can be reached by flying Cebu Pacific Air via Cebu. (No direct flights from Manila yet. You will have to connect in Cebu.)

Via Cagayan de Oro. Most major airlines fly to Cagayan de Oro City (Laguindingan Airport), the most usual gateway for tourists visiting Camiguin. The most important note to consider when booking a flight to Cagayan de Oro is the schedule. You will need to decide first how you plan on reaching Camiguin from CDO before booking a flight: on Fastcraft or via Balingoan Pier.

OceanJet ferry passengers from Cagayan de Oro city center (Macabalan Port) to Camiguin (Benoni Wharf).  OceanJet took over Paras SeaCat’s schedule at 8:30am. Fare is P900. (Note that this might have already changed. Please call +63 (32) 255 7560 to confirm.

There is another way of getting to Camiguin that doesn’t have that much of a time pressure. One can travel to the Balingoan Pier and take a ferry to Benoni Wharf in Camiguin.

• At the airport, take a shuttle to the city center (P199)
• At the Agora Bus Terminal, ride the bus bound for Balingoan (Fare: P110, Travel time: 1.5-2 hours)
• Board the ferry to Benoni Wharf, Camiguin!

From here you can take a multicab to your resort or hotel. More details here .

Places to Visit in Camiguin

Here are some of the tourist spots in Camiguin that may be worth your time.

Other attractions : Mantigue Island, Jicdup and Burias Shoals, Cantaan Giant Clams Ocean Nursery

Preparing a 3D/2N Camiguin Itinerary

Camiguin is such a small island and many of its most popular attractions (not including dive sites) can be visited within a day or two.  If you’re budget conscious, you might not want to hire a travel agency or a tour guide because I am pretty sure you can do it yourself. All you need to do is hire a multi-cab and you’re all set. The drivers know exactly where to take you and they are very friendly and accommodating (or at least the driver we hired).

Here’s how our initial itinerary looked. Unlike what usually happens to me, I was able to follow this itinerary well.

Day 1: GETTING TO CAMIGUIN, and WHITE ISLAND 03:00 am – Check-in NAIA Terminal 3 04:10 am – ETD NAIA Terminal 3 – Manila (via Airphil Express) 05:35 am – ETA Lumbia Airport, Cagayan de Oro City 06:00 am – Book tickets to Camiguin at Paras Seacat/OceanJet Ticket Office at CDO Pier 06:30 am – Breakfast somewhere  near the pier 08:30 am – ETD: Cagayan de Oro Pier 10:00 am – ETA: Camiguin! 11:00 am – Check-in at Paras Beach Resort, settle down 12:00 pm – LUNCH at Hibok-hibok Restaurant 01:00 pm – White Island 04:00 pm – Back to the resort

Day 2: CAMIGUIN ISLAND TOUR 06:00 am – Wake up call 07:00 am – Breakfast 08:00 am – Start of Island Tour (Ardent Hot Springs, Katibawasan Falls, Sunken Cemetery, Old Catarman Church Ruins, etc). 02:00 pm – Buy pasalubong and sample street food 06:00 pm – Dinner 07:00 pm – Swim at Paras Beach Resort pool

Day 3: THE WAY BACK 06:00 am – Wake up call 07:00 am – Breakfast 08:00 am – Pack up, check out 08:30 am – Buy tickets to Cagayan de Oro 09:15 am – ETD Benoni Wharf, Camiguin 11:30 am – ETA Balingoan Port, Misamis Oriental 12:00 pm – ETD Balingoan Terminal, Misamis Oriental 02:00 pm – ETA Lumbia Airport, Cagayan de Oro City 02:30 pm – Check in 03:55 pm – ETD Lumbia Airport, CDO (via Airphil Express) 05:20 pm – ETA NAIA Terminal 3, Manila

We didn’t really veer that much away from our initial itinerary. Although had we had more time, I would’ve wanted to also visit Mantigue Island but I guess that left us one more reason to go back.

If you have more than a weekend or more than three days, I urge you to also enjoy Cagayan de Oro City and the province of Bukidnon!

Budget Breakdown

I didn’t spend much because this trip was a birthday gift to me. (Hallelujah for generous friends!) But just so you could have an idea on how much to spend, here’s the breakdown of expenses had I paid for my half.

Transportation, Accommodations, and Tours

• P679 – Airphil Express roundtrip tickets to Cagayan de Oro (P100 SALE)
• P200 – Terminal fee at NAIA 3
• P60 – Cab fare to Macabalan Port
• P550 – Paras Sea Cat/OceanJet ticket to Camiguin
• P125 – Multicab to Resort from Benoni Port (P250 per multicab)
• P2500 – Superior Room at Paras Sea Cat (P2500 per night for 2 nights, divided by 2 pax)
• P200 – Boat ride to White Island and back (P400 per boat, can accommodate up to 8 pax)
• P600 – Island tour (P1200 per multicab, can accommodate up to 10 pax)
• P900 – Total food and drinks
• P250 – Multicab ride to the ro-ro port
• P135 – Ferry ticket
• P110 – Bus ride from Balingoan to Cagayan de Oro
• P60 – Taxi fare to Airport
• P30 – Lumbia Airport Terminal fee
• P6,399 – SUBTOTAL
• P20 – White Island Fee
• P5 – Walkway to the Old Volcano Envirenmental Fee
• P20 – Santo Nino Cold Spring entrance
• P15 – Life buoy rental at Santo Nino Cold Spring
• P20 – Soda Spring Swimming Pool
• P30 – Ardent Hot Spring Entrance Fee
• P15 – Katibawasan Falls Entrance Fee
• 125 – SUBTOTAL

That’s a total of PhP 6,524.

Hmmm. That’s pretty expensive for a weekend trip.

But hey, I cannot stress enough the fact that there were only two of us on this trip. Having more people on this trip will make a LOT of difference. For example, the boat to White Island can accommodate up to 8 people but we had to shoulder the whole boat cost because there were only two of us. The multicab, too, can also accommodate up to 10 people.

Just to prove a point, let’s assume that you are a group of 8 and you’ll do the exact same things that we did. Here’s how the breakdown will look like:

• P30 – Cab fare to Macabalan Port
• P31 – Multicab to Resort from Benoni Port (P250 per multicab)
• P1500 – Superior Room at Paras Sea Cat (P2500 per room, 4 people per room, 1 extra bed)
• P50 – Boat ride to White Island and back (P400 per boat, can accommodate up to 8 pax)
• P150 – Island tour (P1200 per multicab, can accommodate up to 10 pax)
• P31 – Multicab ride to the ro-ro port
• P30 – Taxi fare to Airport
• P125 – All entrance and environmental fees
• PhP 4,421 – TOTAL

That’s 35% cheaper. And you can still bring it a lot lower by choosing to stay at a less expensive resort or hotel or using cheaper modes of transportation.

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Thaaaaaaanks!!! Can’t wait for my trip!!!

No problem! Watch out for my post fleshing out the details of my budget! :)

I like my stay in camiguin, the memories will be treasred forever.

specia thanks to: mr. teddy pabualan, he is the one who arranges our tour in camiguin ( m: 0939-400521/ [email protected] )

Thanks for sharing your contact!

I’ve been to a lot of places but I always ended going back to camiguin island :)

hi maybe you just update some of the costs like the rental of the cab, entrance & environmental fees and ferry boat fare. There is no direct ocean jet or paras sea cat now direct to camiguin you have to go to balingoan.

Do you have updates?

Hey thanks for the heads up expenses! I’ll be going with my friends and its a free accommodation, and free ride to all destination. So this is way cheaper! Again, Hallelujah for great friends hahahahaha

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Joan's Footprints

Mermaid born with legs to travel the world

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2024 Camiguin DIY Itinerary & Budget

For years I’ve been traveling here and there, but the Island Born of Fire will always have a special place in my heart. In case you’re wondering, it’s my 3rd time in Camiguin already and this is not the fist time I created a Camiguin DIY Itinerary for my readers. There is something about this place that makes me want to go back over and over again.

So if you’re looking for a Camiguin DIY itinerary, you’ve come to the right place! I’ll try to keep this travel guide comprehensive but not too wordy like my previous travel guide back in 2019: Camiguin Travel Guide 2019 . Lol ! Sorry but there are places that makes me want to write a book for it!

Table of Contents

About Camiguin — The Island Born of Fire

Camiguin is an island province located in Northern Mindanao Region. It is also the 2nd smallest island province next to Batanes. Camiguin earned its name as the Island Born of Fire because of about 7 active volcanoes.

Moreover, Camiguin is not only known for its historical sites and volcanoes, it is also famous for its Lanzones Festival that takes place every October.

2022 Travel Requirements

Updated as of September 2022, Camiguin still has travel requirements if you wish to visit. Below are the checklist you need to prepare before you visit:

• Confirmed Hotel Booking
• Proof of Full Vaccination
• Clean Camiguin QR Code & ID (available at www.cleancamiguinqr.com )

How to go to Camiguin?

Below are ways for you to get to Camiguin via direct airport or from different airports outside the island province.

Nearest Airports

“Is there an airport in Camiguin?”

YES! There’s a direct airport in Camiguin if you wish to go there directly. Previously, it was only Jetstar offering direct flights to Camiguin. But upon checking Cebu Pacific is also now offering flights to Camiguin.

Alternatively, if you are backpacking you can go for the 2 nearest airports which are Bancasi Airport in Butuan or Laguindingan Airport in Misamis Oriental. All local airlines offers this route and they have daily flights from Manila.

Balingoan Port to Benoni Port

If in case your flight is from Butuan Airport and/or Laguindingan Airport, ride a bus that goes directly to Balingoan Port. If you are from Butuan Airport, find your way to the Integrated Bus Terminal. Similarly if you are coming from CDO, there are bus is Agora Terminal that goes to Balingoan Port.

From Balingoan Port, ride a ferry to Benoni Port in Camiguin. The travel time is approximately 1 hour and the fare is Php360.00 (terminal fee included). Take note that the last trip to Camiguin is at 6:30pm with Super Shuttle Ferry and the first trip is at 4:30am.

Where to Stay?

For budget travelers , I highly recommend the places below:

• GV Hotel (Php550.00-750.00 for 2) located in the heart of Mambajao, just near the Camiguin Marker and Jollibee food establishment. This is where we stayed during our Camiguin trip last August 2022. BOOK ROOM AT GV HOTEL HERE

• Book rooms at Beach House Resort (Php600.00 for 2) fan room. Heads up, the location of the resort requires you to pass by a cemetery. If it doesn’t mind you then you can check this place out. Rooms are cheap here too.

• Book rooms at RedDoorz @ July’s Haven Seaside (Php664.00)

• Most hotels/hostels range from Php1,500.00-3,500.00 per night around Mambajao.

If you want a sophisticated one, I suggest Bintana sa Paraiso . And if you are a freediver , contact Kurma Eco Beach Lodge on Facebook! 🙂

Where to Eat?

I still highly recommend La Dolce which is located in front of the aiport and J&A Fishpen . For local delicacy I highly recommend freshly baked Pastel from Vjandep Bakeshop , chicharong pusit , and local biscuit-like kiping . The bakeshop is near Jollibee and GV Hotel in Mambajao. 1 dozen of Pastel costs Php300.00.

Read here: BEST RESTAURANTS IN CAMIGUIN

How to get around?

There are 2 best options to travel around the island province. It’s either (a) you will rent a motorbike or (b) you will rent a habal-habal to tour you around. If you know how to drive, I highly recommend driving one! This will help you save more and you’ll get a better feel of the island vibe.

Don’t worry because internet will save you for directions! Plus the places to visit are very easy to find. If you’ve decided to rent a motorbike, you’ll see motorbikes for rent just outside Benoni Port. We rented ours for Php500.00 / day.

• 0918-583-4135 Emeverto Dayao

Places to Visit in Camiguin & Updated Expenses in 2023

Here are the top most visited tourist destinations when in Camiguin. My most rated is on the very top. Take note that all entrance fees/boat rental fees each destination is FIXED. You cannot try to negotiate with the price because the price is from the local tourism.

WHITE ISLAND

Boat Rental Fee: Php550.00 (good for 4) Entrance Fee: Php50.00/each

Navigate on your maps White Island Ferry Terminal , this is the jump-off point to White Island. After renting a boat and paying the necessary fees, the boat ride is about 5-10 minutes only. Best time to go here is sunrise. White Island resembles Naked Island in Siargao. It’s very hot here when the sun comes up and there’s no shade too.

Fun Fact: the tallest mountain you can see from White Island is the famous Mt. Hibok-Hibok.

MANTIGUE ISLAND

Boat Rental Fee: Php750.00 (good for 4 people and good for 3 hours only, +100 per hour if you wish to extend) Entrance Fee: Php75.00/each Optional Fees: Cottage fee Php150.00, Table Php100.00, Marine Sanctuary Entrance Fee Php75.00

I truly believe that the real beauty of Camiguin lies underneath. Mantigue Island is the place you want to be if you are looking for a snorkeling/skindiving adventure because of its rich marine biodiversity. We got the chance to swim with a sea turtle while we were checking out the marine sanctuary. Moreover, overnights not allowed here and there are no stores. So make sure to buy your food and water before going there.

Note: Mantigue Island port is near Benon port which is in the opposite side of White Island.

GUI-OB CHURCH RUINS

Entrance Fee: Php50.00/each

Gui-Ob Church Ruins is a very historical place in Camiguin. The ruins of the Church is the result of Mt. Volcan’s wrath way back in 1871. The best time to go here is before sunset.

SUNKEN CEMETERY

There is no entrance fee to see the Sunken Cemetery from afar. But if you wish to go to the huge cross, the boat fee is Php100.00/each. Best time to go here is during sunset.

TUASAN FALLS

Entrance Fee: Php75.00

A word of advise, the water is really cold! I can’t find myself dipping my whole body even if I’ve been here for the 3rd time around. Also, on your way to Tuasan Falls you’ll get a good view of Tres Maria Mountain in Catarman, Camiguin.

Fun Fact: did you know that Tres Marias is also an active volcano in the province?

SODA SWIMMING POOLS & STO NINO COLD SPRING

If you are up to swimming in a soda swimming pool which is water coming from the volcanoes, you should visit Soda Water Pool. And if you’re up to swimming in a cold spring, visit Sto. Nino Cold Spring.

WALKWAY TO THE OLD VOLCANO

If you are staying in Camiguin for 2 days or more, I highly suggest to do some trekking up to the old volcano. The short trekk will last for 30-45 minutes and the entrance fee is Php25.00 each.

CAMIGUIN MARKER

Located in the heart of Mambajao, in front of Jollibee and walking distance from Vjanders Bakeshop and GV Hotel.

Sample Itinerary & Budget (Camiguin DIY Itinerary)

Assuming that you are staying for 2 whole days and you are arriving early in the morning. Expenses are in open and close () parenthesis. Divide the boat rental fees, motorbike rental and hotel overnight in 2 if you are traveling with a partner or with a group.

2 Days 1 Night Budget & Itinerary

1st Day 5:00am Wake up time, prepare to go to White Island Boat Terminal (500 motorbike rental + 200 gas) 5:30-7:30am White Island (boat rental 550; entrance fee 50) 8:00am Breakfast (100) 9:00am Tongatoc Cove (free) 9:30am Tuasan Falls (75) 11:00am Soda Water Pool (75) 1:30pm Sto. Nino Cold Spring (75) 3:30pm Gui-Ob Church Ruins (50) 4:30pm Sunken Cemetery (100) 6:00pm Back to hostel (550 GV Hotel) 7:30pm Dinner (100) 10:00pm Lights off TOTAL EXPENSES FOR 1: PHP2,425.00

2nd Day 5:00am Wake up time, prepare to go to Mantigue Island (500 motorbike rental + 200 gas) 5:30am Register, boat ride to Mantigue Island (750 boat rental; 75 entrance fee) 6:00-9:00am Mantigue Island 9:30am Breakfast (100) 10:00am Vjanders bakeshop Mambajao to buy Pastel (300) 11:00am Check out time TOTAL EXPENSES FOR 1: PHP1,925.00

1 Day Budget & Itinerary

5:00am Balingoan Port to Benoni Port 1st Trip(360 ferry; 500 motorbike rental + 200 gas) 7:00-8:30am White Island (550 boat rental; 50 entrance fee) 9:00am Breakfast (100) 9:30am Tongatoc Cove (free) 10:30am Tuasan Falls (75) 12nn Lunch (100) 12:30pm Gui-ob Church Ruins (50) 1:00pm Sunken Cemetery (100) 3:00-5:00pm Mantigue Island (750 boat rental fee; 75 entrance fee) 6:00pm Benoni Port to Balingoan Port Last Trip (360) TOTAL EXPENSES FOR 1: PHP3,270.00

Other Tips From Joan’s Footprints

• Make sure to prepare the travel requirements to Camiguin before your date of travel.
• For souvenir shops, you can literally find them everywhere. Don’t forget to buy yourself a hand-made sea glass jewelry .
• Best time to visit Camiguin is during summer season.
• There is internet reception almost anywhere.
• Love this Camiguin DIY Itinerary? Read more here !

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15 BEST Camiguin Island Tourist Spots – Ultimate Guide

Looking for the best Camiguin Tourist Spots?!

Camiguin Island in the Philippines is commonly referred to as the ‘island born of fire’  due to the volcanic eruptions that gave the island its impressive shape.

The island is home to 7 volcanoes and the highest peak is Mount Mambajao at 1,713 meters above sea level.

It’s quite simply a tropical paradise offering a mecca of things to do and see such as epic waterfalls, volcanic hot springs, historical landmarks, island hopping, snorkeling, and hiking!

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast like myself, you’ll be spoiled with fun-fuelled adventures when you arrive on the island.

I have put together this ultimate list of things to do in Camiguin and other useful information including how to get here, where to stay, how to get around the island, and the best time to visit.

Table of Contents

CAMIGUIN ISLAND TOURIST SPOTS – OVERVIEW

Let’s start this guide with all the essential information you should know about Camiguin Island, such as its location, getting there, and more.

WHERE IS CAMIGUIN ISLAND?

Camiguin Island is situated in the Bohol Sea in the Philippines, about 10km off the north coast of Mindanao.

Click here to see the Camiguin tourist spots map on Google maps.

HOW TO GO TO CAMIGUIN?

There are two ways how to go to Camiguin, one is by plane and the other by ferry.

There are daily flights to Camiguin connecting domestic travelers coming from Manila or Cebu. The only airport on the island is Camiguin Mambajao Airport (CGM).

Bohol to Camiguin ferry

One of the most common routes to the island is the ferry from Bohol to Camiguin which takes approximately 3-4 hours and the cost is 425 pesos.

There is also an additional municipal service fee of 10 pesos and a terminal fee of 15 pesos.

There is only one ferry per day departing from the Jagna Ferry Terminal in East Bohol at 1 pm and arriving at the Balbagon Ferry Terminal in Camiguin at around 5 pm.

The name of the boat leaving Jagna to Camiguin is ‘Super Shuttle Ferry’.

You can purchase your tickets at the Jagna Ferry Terminal at least one hour before departure.

Balingoan to Camiguin ferry

If you happen to be in Cagayan de Oro and heading over to Camiguin from here, there are daily ferry departures leaving from Balingoan Port in Misamis Oriental to Benoni Port in Camiguin.

The ferry from Balingoan to the island takes approximately 1.5 hours and the cost is around 150 pesos.

You can purchase your tickets at the Balingoan Port at least one hour before departure.

WHERE TO STAY IN CAMIGUIN?

Camiguin Island has countless accommodation options to choose from, so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to fit the needs of budget backpackers, luxury travelers, and everyone in between.

See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend:

Luxury:  Bintana Sa Paraiso

I personally stayed at Bintana Sa Paraiso and can’t recommend this place enough!

They have 2 properties, one is on the beachfront in Mambajao and the other is high in the mountains in Binunsarun.

It’s currently one of the best 5-star accommodations in Camiguin featuring a restaurant, swimming pools, sea views, and mountain views!

The rooms are modern and spacious with private bathrooms, air conditioning, flat-screen tv, and a kitchenette.

Mid Range:  Tongatok Cliff Resort

Tongatok Cliff Resort is your second-best pick for accommodation in Camiguin.

Located on the cliffs overlooking Tongatok Bay, the resort features a restaurant, room service, bar, garden, terrace, and free wifi.

The units are fitted with air conditioning, flat-screen tv, a private bathroom, a large patio, and ocean views!

Budget:  Pabua’s Cottages

Pabua’s Cottages is the best budget accommodation in Camiguin, featuring beautiful gardens, a shared kitchen, free wifi, and room service.

The units are basic but perfect for a few nights’ stay, featuring a seating area, flat-screen tv, large bed, air conditioning, and a private bathroom.

Recommended for solo travelers, couples, and friends.

FOR MORE OPTIONS, SEE MY COMPLETE GUIDE ON WHERE TO STAY ON CAMIGUIN ISLAND.

How to get around camiguin island.

The best way to get around Camiguin Island is to rent a scooter in Mambajao and make your own way around to all the Camiguin tourist spots.

I always recommend renting a scooter on the islands in the Philippines as you can choose your own route and go at your own pace. I rented my scooter from  Camiguin All In One for 350 pesos per day.

Also, be sure to purchase travel insurance , especially when riding on the roads in the Philippines. Safety first!

Alternatively, there are tricycles and jeepney options available to get around the island. A 20-minute tricycle ride will cost around 100 pesos whereas a jeepney ride is only 40-50 pesos.

Have you got travel insurance for your trip?!

We all know accidents can happen and having Heymondo Insurance will save you thousands of dollars if something goes wrong.

Heymondo offers low-cost Travel Insurance to keep you covered on all your adventures.

BEST TIME TO VISIT CAMIGUIN

The best time to visit Camiguin, weather-wise, is between April and July when temperatures are hot and there is barely any rainfall. This is also the high season so expect to see many tourists during these months.

I recommend visiting on the shoulder months of the high season between November and March which sees a bit of rainfall but usually only lasts for a couple of hours and the rest of the day is sunny.

Try to avoid the typhoon season which is typically between August and October.

15 BEST CAMIGUIN TOURIST SPOTS

Now that you’ve got all the information on where to stay, where to go in Camiguin Island, the best time to visit, and all the logistics, let’s get to the fun stuff.

So without further ado, here is the ultimate guide to the 15 Best Camiguin Tourist Spots!

WHITE ISLAND CAMIGUIN

Exploring White Island was the highlight of my trip which is why it claims the best tourist spot in Camiguin on this list.

The soft and powdery Camiguin sandbar is located just 2km off the northern shores of Mambajao and it’s one of the best things to do in Camiguin 2023!

To get to White Island you’ll have to ride a pump boat from the White Island Ferry Terminal in Mambajao which is located right next to Paras Beach Resort. The pump boat operating hours are 5:30 am and finish at 5:30 pm, 7 days a week.

The entrance fee is 50 pesos ($1) and the pump boat fee is 550 pesos ($9) which seats a maximum of 6 people.

For those traveling solo, it would be ideal to find a group of people to split the cost of the pump boat between you.

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Stepping off the boat and sinking my toes into the sand on White Beach was an experience in itself! I don’t think I have ever felt sand this soft before.

We walked from one end of the sandbar to the other in a matter of minutes and noticed there was a second sandbar across a shallow water channel. My buddy Jay crossed over to the other side and I sent my drone up to take a few shots. He had the entire sandbar to himself, it was unreal!

I was in complete awe of the vibrant turquoise-colored water that surrounds the sandbar and couldn’t resist taking a dip in the ocean, more than once!

One of my favorite things about White Island is the view facing back towards the mainland where Mt Hibok Hibok and Mt Vulcan can be seen reaching high into the skyline, creating the ultimate backdrop. I have never seen a landscape quite like it in my life!

Full Blog Post → White Island Camiguin

BEST TOUR IN CAMIGUIN

The best way to visit is to join a Camiguin Island Tour with White Island !

It includes all entrance fees, private transportation, and a fun guide to spend the day with!

ARDENT HOT SPRINGS

Camiguin is home to 7 volcanoes and subsequently, there are a number of  thermal pools that can be found on the island and the Ardent Hot Springs are the most popular.

Set at the foot of Mount Hibok Hibok, the Ardent Hot Spring is one of the best tourist spots in Camiguin.

Ardent Hot Springs is located in Mambajao and it’s approximately a 10-minute drive from the main town to reach the springs.

The Ardent Hot Spring entrance fee is 50 pesos and there are also sheltered tables and chairs which are available for rent for 150 pesos.

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As I mentioned earlier, Ardent Hot Springs sits at the foot of Mt. Hibok Hibok volcano which is where the thermal water is derived from. The water temperature is around 40°C which is slightly cooled on the way down to the lower pools.

Ardent Hot Springs are man-made pools surrounded by lush rainforest and the water is transparent with a tinge of blue. For a man-made structure, they’ve done well to make this place a tranquil experience for visitors.

The water cascades from the top of the valley and is divided into four separate pools. The two larger pools at the bottom are the most inviting and there is an arched footbridge between them.

Ardent Hot Springs is around 1.5 meters deep with plenty of space to hang out in the thermal pools or around the edges on the concrete steps.

A dip in the Ardent Hot Spring Mambajao is the best remedy for muscle pains after a long day exploring the island.

Full Blog Post → Ardent Hot Springs

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KATIBAWASAN FALLS

Katibawasan Falls is the  tallest waterfall on the island.  At a whopping 70 meters tall, this is one waterfall you definitely want to add to your list of things to do in Camiguin!

Katibawasan Falls is located in Mambajao and it’s approximately a 20-minute drive to reach the falls from the main town. The entrance fee at Katibawasan Falls is 75 pesos.

Katibawasan Falls is fed from the nearby Mt. Timpoong and the falls themselves feature a narrow stream of water that flows effortlessly down a monolithic cliff-face and into a large catch basin below.

The shallow lagoon at the base of Katibawasan is the perfect opportunity to cool off in the fresh, crystalline waters while marveling at the lush jungle surrounds.

Some sections around the catch basin are man-made but they have done their best to preserve the natural ambiance at this popular Camiguin tourist spot.

Apart from swimming in the lagoon and exploring the area around the falls, there isn’t much else to do. I recommend spending 30 minutes to 1 hour at Katibawasan Falls before continuing on to the other places to visit in Camiguin Island.

At the entrance to the falls, there are a few small shops selling souvenirs, snacks, and drinks. If you do have some small change to buy something here, the money goes a long way to support the local communities in the area.

Full Blog Post → Katibawasan Falls

WALKWAY TO THE OLD VOLCANO

The Walkway to the Old Volcano (Mt Vulcan) is an easy hike to an awesome viewpoint overlooking the west coast.

The Walkway to the Old Volcano can be found in Catarman, a 10-minute drive from the main town of Mambajao and the entrance fee is only 10 pesos.

It takes approximately 30-minutes from the jump-off point to hike to the Mt Vulcan viewpoint and the trail is made up of concrete steps and a gravel path. The trail is shaded for the most part but it does get very hot and sweaty so bring plenty of drinking water.

Along the way, there are statues depicting the 14 Stations of the Cross. These statues are quite impressive, even if you are not religious, and each one depicts the stages of Jesus Christ from the carrying of the cross, the crucifixion, the burial, and the resurrection.

Once you reach the top, the trail will come to a dead-end and this is where you’ll find the Mt Vulcan viewpoint! From here you can see one whole side of the Old Volcano which meets the ocean and you can even spot the Sunken Cemetery further along the coastline.

For a short 1-hour return journey, this hike is definitely worth adding to your list of things to do in Camiguin.

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SNORKEL AT THE SUNKEN CEMETERY

The Sunken Cemetery is an adventure not to be missed, and you should definitely include it in your place to go in Camiguin list!

Go snorkeling at the Sunken Cemetery where you’ll discover old tombstones and crosses as well as an abundance of marine life!

Sunken Cemetery is located in Catarman which is a 10-minute drive from the main tourist area of Mambajao.

The entrance fee is 150 pesos and an additional 150 pesos fee for a mandatory guide to take you snorkeling. If you don’t have your own mask and snorkel set you can rent them here for 100 pesos.

What once was a cemetery that resided on land was forced to depths below sea level following a volcanic eruption on Camiguin Island in 1870. The natural disaster brought the city to rubble and caused the cemetery to subside.

A giant cross was later built in remembrance of the deceased that lay in the cemetery that once was. It is truly an iconic landmark displaying the rich history of the island and its people.

From the shoreline, it’s a short 50m swim through shallow waters to reach the giant cross and the underwater tombstone. The tombstone displays a stone sculpted head with a cross attached to the top which was a pretty creepy sight when I first laid eyes on it but unlike anything I have seen before.

We swam out to the outer edges of the reef and our guide showed us some giant clams, sea anemones with clownfish, beautiful sea stars, and the old cross that forms part of the Sunken Cemetery.

There is such an abundance of sea life and colorful corals the further out you go and I highly recommend checking it out as it’s one of the best Camiguin tourist attractions!

Full Blog Post → Sunken Cemetery

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OLD SPANISH CHURCH RUINS

Just around the corner from the Sunken Cemetery is the Old Church Ruins, also known as Old Spanish Church Ruins and Guiob Church. An iconic landmark that has stood the test of time following the volcanic eruptions of Mt Vulcan and Mt Hibok Hibok.

The Old Spanish Church Ruins are located in Catarman which is a 10-minute drive from Mambajao and the entrance fee is 50 pesos.

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There are three stone structures that still remain standing following the volcanic eruptions on the island which is why the Old Church Ruins is a historical landmark. From the road, it looks like an old fortress with its high walls and tall columns.

The walls of the ruins, over time, have become covered in vines and moss which clearly gives you an idea of how old this church is. Large trees also surround this historic site which are some of the biggest trees I have seen and they form a dense canopy above the ruins. See the images below for scale!

The Guiob Church was built sometime in the 16th century during the Spanish era before it met its demise during the eruption. Hence the name Old Spanish Church Ruins.

Before you leave the Old Spanish Church Ruins you will find a couple of local vendors selling Lanzones fruit. If you haven’t tried Lanzones yet in the Philippines make sure you try them here.

Full Blog Post → Old Spanish Church Ruins

BURA SODA WATER SWIMMING POOL

Bura Soda Water Swimming Pool is one of the more tourist spots that you can’t miss on your itinerary! The name says it all, and yes, you can actually drink the fresh soda water at this fascinating cold spring.

The Soda Water Swimming Pool can be found in Catarman which is a 25-minute drive from Mambajao and the entrance fee is 150 pesos. It’s actually attached to a resort but also open to the public.

A large swimming pool welcomes you as you arrive at the Bura Soda Water Spring though it is not bubbling as you may have expected. However, the crystalline water is incredibly clean and fresh as the flow of water from the mountains is constant. Set down your belongings in one of the poolside huts and jump on in to cool off!

Do note that you cannot drink from the pool itself but off to the side, you can find an open faucet where you can taste the clean and natural soda water flowing from the taps. It’s safe to drink and it’s completely free! 

Small sari-sari stores can be found out the front selling snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. There is also a lifeguard on duty at the Soda Water Swimming Pool keeping an eye out for all visitors.

This attraction is the first of its kind in the Philippines and I highly recommend visiting during your stay.

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MANTIGUE ISLAND

Mantigue Island is one of the best Camiguin tourist spots, just a short boat trip off the main island’s east coast.

Mantigue Island is a protected marine sanctuary that boasts white sand beaches, turquoise waters, colorful coral reefs, and a lush nature park.

Mantigue Island is located in Mahinog, 3.5km off the east coast of Camiguin Island. From the main tourist area of Mambajao, it’s approximately a 30-minute drive to the Mantigue Island departure area, and the boat ride to the island is around 20 minutes.

When you arrive at the San Roque port, you’ll find a small tourist office where you can book your Mantigue Island tour. The boat costs 750 pesos for a maximum of 6 people, so ideally if you can find a group of people to head over to Mantigue Island with it will be much cheaper to split the cost.

You’ll also have to pay an environmental fee of 30 pesos, a snorkeling fee of 75 pesos, and a mask and snorkel rental is 100 pesos.

As soon as we arrived on Mantigue Island we set our belongings down on the sand and went for a snorkel along the outer edges of the reef. The water is extremely clear and we saw sea stars and an abundance of fish.

We then decided to go for a walk around the island which took us around 20 minutes, stopping several times for a dip in the ocean to cool off along the way. The water surrounding the island is so inviting it would be rude not to go for a swim!

There are a couple of simple restaurants on Mantigue Island where you can purchase drinks and local food. These local eateries offer fish, seafood, chicken, pork, and rice. They also sell water, soft drinks, and beer to watch it all down.

Other than swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the shoreline around Mantigue Island there’s also a nature walk that takes you across a wooden boardwalk from one end of the island to the other.

For such a small island, there are many things to do to keep you entertained for a couple of hours and I highly recommend including Mantigue Island in your itinerary.

Full Blog Post → Mantigue Island

STO NINO COLD SPRING

Sto Nino Cold Spring is one of the more underrated attractions on the island. Mainly visited by locals, you’ll get to experience the Filipino way of having a good time at these springs!

Sto Nino Cold Spring is located in Catarman, a 30-minute drive from Mambajao and the entrance fee is 50 pesos.

Sto Nino Cold Spring features a large man-made swimming pool that is fed from natural spring water that runs down the valley from the nearby mountains.

There are plenty of sheltered huts and seating areas around the edges of the pool where you can set down your belongings and jump in head first to cool off. The water in the springs is a vibrant turquoise color and irresistibly inviting!

I noticed a few locals floating around the springs in rubber tubes which looked super relaxing so I grabbed a tube myself and joined in.

It was a Sunday when I visited and there were several Filipino families who had set up for the day with a banquet of food and drinks. Not a bad way to spend a weekend if you ask me!

Sto Nino Cold Spring is set beneath Mt Hoibok Hibok, surrounded by a dense coconut palm forest and beautiful gardens, creating the ultimate jungle vibes! It’s a great spot to hang out for an hour or so during your visit.

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ZIP LINE AT TAGUINES LAGOON

Taguines Lagoon is a beautiful man-made vista right next to the ocean that is most popular for the 700-meter zip line that stretches over the water from one end of the lagoon to the other.

Located in Mahinog, it’s approximately a 45-minute drive from the main tourist area of Mambajao to reach Taguines Lagoon.

The zipline activity can be found at the J & A Fishpen Resort and the cost is 400 pesos. This includes a safety briefing, safety equipment, and an exhilarating zip-lining experience over the top of Taguines Lagoon.

There are a number of seafood restaurants and resorts dotted around the edges of the lagoon, perfect for a lunchtime meal or an overnight stay.

It’s also possible to go swimming in the lagoon which can be accessed from the roadside or through the entrances of most resorts. One resort even features an inflatable floating playground which would be super fun for the kids and adults who refuse to grow up!

TONGATOK BAY VIEWPOINT

Tongatok Bay is a stunning cove boasting one of the best coastline views you can experience on Camiguin Island!

Tongatok Bay is located in Mambajao, a short 5-minute drive from the center of town. It’s easy to find Tongatok Bay but at the same time, the viewpoint can be easily missed.

Search for Chan Lookout Point  on Google maps and this is the exact pin location of the viewpoint.

When you arrive at the jump-off point on the side of the main road, you can walk to the edge of the cliffs to find the Tongatok Bay viewpoint which overlooks an awe-inspiring ocean cove lined with coconut palm trees.

Tongatok Cove is unbelievably picturesque and worthy enough to be found on the front of a postcard.

If you want to go all out and have the ultimate experience, you can book an oceanfront room at Tongatok Cliff Resort and enjoy uninterrupted views of this stunning coastline right from your very balcony!

TUASAN FALLS

Tuasan Falls is hands down  my favorite waterfall on Camiguin Island and arguably the best! It’s not quite as popular as Katibawasan Falls but it is without a doubt one of the latest up-and-coming Camiguin tourist spots.

Tuasan Falls is located in Catarman, approximately a 30-minute drive from the main tourist area of Mambajao and the entrance fee is 75 pesos.

A 20-meter-high waterfall and the freshwater stream is the first thing you’ll see as you walk around the bend from the jump-off point. The stream is also incredibly clear with a tinge of turquoise colors!

There are two rock pools at Tuasan Falls, the first pool is filled by the strong flow of water from the falls which then cascades down into the second pool.

The rock pools seem to have been excavated along the edges making them wider to accommodate visitors. Although the swimming holes at Tuasan Falls have been somewhat man-made, they have done well to preserve its natural beauty.

My favorite thing about Tuasan Falls is the vivid flora and fauna surrounding the area, adding to the tranquil vibe and peacefulness. We spotted many birds, lizards, and butterflies while hanging out beneath the canopy of the jungle that enveloped the falls.

We were lucky enough to have Tuasan Falls completely to ourselves as we got there quite early in the morning which made our visit even more enjoyable.

If you want to experience this tourist spot in Camiguin without the crowds as we did, definitely try to get here as early as possible.

Full Blog Post → Tuasan Falls

HIKE MT HIBOK HIBOK

One Camiguin tourist spot you can’t skip is the almighty Mt Hibok Hibok , standing tall at 1,332 meters above sea level. Hiking to the top of this active volcano is one heck of an adventure to be had on the island!

My friends and I had every intention of hiking Mt Hibok Hibok for sunrise one morning but due to poor weather conditions, our trip was canceled…

We were up and ready to go at 2 o’clock in the morning to meet with our trekking guide but heavy rains persisted. Ah well, I guess I have a valid excuse to go back again one day!

From what our guide had told us, the hike to the summit of Mount Hibok Hibok takes 3 to 4 hours from bottom to top depending on one’s fitness levels and hiking capabilities.

The Mount Hibok Hibok volcano hike can be done as a day trip from Mambajao which begins at 6:00 am and returns around 3:00 pm, though it will be very hot hiking under the blazing sun during these hours.

My recommendation would be to start the hike at 2:00 am to make it to the summit for sunrise and be back down by around 10:00 am.

Panoramic views await at the summit, boasting extensive views of the neighboring islands of Siquijor, Bohol, and Surigao on a clear day! Not to mention you can see right down into the mossy volcanic crater of Mt Hibok Hibok!

To book the Mt Hibok Hibok hike, contact Alex from Camiguin All In One and he will be happy to help you organize this.

If you do end up completing the Mount Hibok Hibok hike, let me know your experience in the comments below!

BINANGAWAN FALLS

Binangawan Falls is one only a hidden gem but also one of the best tourist spots in Camiguin Island!

Imagine a clear stream of water gracefully cascading down more than 70 meters, culminating in a plunge pool that is perfect for a refreshing swim.

You’ll need a motorbike or a tricycle to reach Binangawan Falls, and once there, you’ll have to take the trail to the falls, which is quite steep and sometimes slippery.

Once at the falls, you can indulge in a picnic by the base and relax for as long as you want. While the way to get there is a little challenging, it’s definitely worth it and you’ll likely won’t see anyone!

Last but certainly not least for this tourist destination in Camiguin, there’s no entrance fee!

HAVE A MEAL AT LA DOLCE VITA

If you’re looking for an amazing culinary experience (and, for that matter, a Camiguin Island tourist spot), then look no further than La Dolce Vita.

This Italian restaurant is arguably the best on the island, serving up delicious, authentic Italian cuisine that will leave you blown away. No matter what you order, pizza, bruschetta, or pasta, you’ll have a great meal.

Plus, you have the added bonus of being able to watch the pizza being cooked in a brick oven. The service is outstanding, and the price is very reasonable. On top of that, the restaurant is right by the airport, so you can have a meal when landing or before departing!

Can you think of a better meal and tourist spot Camiguin Island offers?

BEST PLACES TO EAT IN CAMIGUIN

One of the most popular places to eat on the island is  Check Point Camiguin.

It’s a BBQ-style restaurant in the center of town offering a range of local cuisine including pork, stir frys, soups, and western-style dishes such as pizzas, pasta, curries, burgers, etc… There is also a bar offering a wide selection of beers, wines, and spirits!

Another decent option for food and drinks is Hagahay Cafe serving up fresh juices and smoothie bowls. Or you can try Alco Lion  for the best burgers and beers on the island.

If you want to enjoy a delicious Spanish-style meal with good wifi, you can check out Peninsular Kape Art, within walking distance from the White Island Ferry Terminal in Mambajao.

My friends and I spent an entire afternoon here using the only decent wifi we could find on the island and I ordered a Spanish paella dish along with a few beers to wash it down.

It’s located right on the oceanfront, which is also a great spot to watch the sunset!

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FINAL THOUGHTS – THINGS TO DO IN CAMIGUIN

I hope you enjoyed reading this article about the best things to do in Camiguin and if you have any questions at all, please leave me a comment below this post and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations about what to do in Camiguin to our awesome community.

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THANKS FOR READING

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• Destination

OPTIONAL TOUR: CAMIGUIN ISLAND HOPPING TOUR

Inclusions/Exclusions

Camiguin Island is one of the Philippines’ safest and most appealing beach escapes, offering ivory-white sandbars, iridescent lagoons and jagged volcanic mountain tops. You’ll find these beaches are under the radar — a world apart from the bumper-to-bumper resorts of Boracay and Alona Beach.

DESTINATION: WHITE ISLAND BEACH KATIBAWASAN FALLS MANTIGUE ISLAND BEACH KATUNGGAN MANGROVE PARK ARDENT SPRING

INCLUSIONS/EXCLUSIONS

• MAX 8 HOURS OPEN TYPE OR AC VEHICLE TOUR TRANSPO
• PROPER TOWN HOTEL PICK UP AND DROP OFF
• BOAT FEES ENVIRONMENTAL FEES
• ENTRANCE FEES
• DRIVER/GUIDE
• OTHER THAT IS NOT MENTIONED IN INCLUSIONS

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Camiguin Tour Package from Cagayan de Oro (CDO) to Natural & Historical Spots

Description

Explore the picturesque landscape of Camiguin Island through this day tour. This Camiguin tour is a perfect experience for first-time visitors as you'll visit the area's best natural and historical attractions. This Camiguin tour from CDO includes roundtrip transfers from Cagayan de Oro's city proper, the service of a guide, entrance fees, and boat transfers for island-hopping. However, the fee for the ferry ride from Cagayan de Oro to Camiguin needs to be paid onsite during the tour. 

The tour will start at 4 AM once your guide fetches you from your accommodations within Cagayan de Oro's city proper. From there, you'll board a ferry bound for Camiguin Island . After reaching the island, you'll kick off your adventure with a visit to the Santo Nino Cold Spring . Feel free to dip in the ice-cold waters for a refreshing treat amidst the tropical heat. Then, you'll make your way to the iconic Sunken Cemetery . 

This graveyard was submerged underwater after the historic eruption of Mount Vulcan in 1871. Following the natural disaster, the locals erected a giant white cross in its location during the 1980s to honor the dead. Underneath the water's surface, the tombstones have become an unlikely home for various fish, making it a unique diving site.

Next, you'll drop by the Old Church Ruins before walking along the sides of the towering Mount Vulcan. The concrete walkway is lined with statues depicting the Stations of the Cross, making it a popular spot for devout Catholics during Holy Week. You'll also get a panoramic view of the Sunken Cemetery and the horizon as you go up the steps. 

Following your walk, you'll visit Tuasan Falls before taking a boat to either Mantigue Island or White Island to end your day tour. The former is better known as a snorkeling site with thriving marine ecosystems, while the latter is famous for its spotless white sandbar. 

Discover the natural beauty and rich heritage of Camiguin Island by booking this Camiguin package tour from Cagayan de Oro. Check the availability by choosing a date. 

Attractions

What to bring

Good to know.

This is a private tour. Lunch is not included, and it will be on guests' own account. Roundtrip ferry transfers from Cagayan de Oro to Camiguin which is approximately Php 700 will be paid onsite. Activities not mentioned in the itinerary are to be paid onsite.

Children Friendly: Yes!

Pet Friendly: No. Please understand that this is for your fur baby's safety.

Senior Citizen/PWD Friendly: Yes!

Pick-up time is 4:00AM and pick-up location covered is only within Cagayan De Oro City Proper. To change the pick-up time and location please request in advance so our operator may check if the itinerary will fit as we may need to move the pick-up time if the location is far and additional fee may apply.

The operator may cancel the tour in case of force majeure or unforeseen circumstances like weather conditions. In this case, you will be given the option to reschedule or request a full refund. Note that being late by 15-30 minutes without any advice is considered a no-show. Schedule cancellation requests must be made 48 hours before your original subject to approval.

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Camiguin, a small island province in the Philippines, is known for its stunning natural attractions, diverse landscapes, and historical landmarks. Here’s an overview of tourism in Camiguin:

Natural Wonders and Scenic Spots:

• White Island : A sandbar off the coast of Mambajao with white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque views of Mt. Hibok-Hibok and Old Volcanoes.
• Ardent Hot Springs : Natural hot springs surrounded by lush greenery, offering relaxation and therapeutic bathing experiences.
• Katibawasan Falls : A majestic waterfall cascading from a height of 70 meters, surrounded by tropical foliage and a natural pool for swimming.

Volcanic and Historical Sites:

• Mt. Hibok-Hibok : A dormant volcano offering challenging trekking opportunities and rewarding panoramic views from the summit.
• Sunken Cemetery : A submerged cemetery marked by a large cross, submerged due to a volcanic eruption, now a popular diving and snorkeling site.
• Old Catarman Church Ruins : Remnants of a church destroyed by the eruption of Mt. Vulcan in the 1870s, offering a glimpse into the island’s history.

Beaches and Underwater Attractions:

• Mantigue Island : Known for its rich marine life, coral gardens, and snorkeling spots offering vibrant underwater experiences.
• Jicdup Reef : A marine sanctuary perfect for snorkeling, scuba diving, and spotting diverse marine species.

Festivals and Cultural Events:

• Lanzones Festival : Celebrates the bountiful harvest of lanzones fruit, featuring street dancing, parades, and cultural presentations.
• Fiesta Celebrations : Each town has its own fiesta celebrations with religious processions, local delicacies, and cultural performances.

Culinary Delights:

• Local Cuisine : Sample Camiguin’s delicacies such as pastel (sweet bread filled with yema or cheese), lanzones fruit, and seafood dishes.
• Soda Water Swimming Pool : A unique experience where visitors can swim in a pool filled with fresh soda water from a natural spring.

Transportation:

• Multicabs and Motorcycles : Common modes of transportation for traveling within Camiguin and exploring its attractions.
• Habal-Habal (Motorcycle Taxis) : Available for short distances and reaching remote areas not accessible by larger vehicles.

Camiguin’s blend of natural beauty, historical sites, underwater wonders, and cultural celebrations make it an enticing destination for travelers seeking a tranquil and diverse experience in the Philippines.

Discover Mindanao: Travel the “land of promise” with its hidden gemstones

Mindanao has it all: beautiful and abandoned beaches, spectacular landscapes and many opportunities to experience real adventures . Some of the more famous destinations include Camiguin, Davao City and Siargao as the “surfing capital of the Philippines”, of course.

But how about Bukidnon, Agusan del Norte or Mati in Davao Oriental? How about the unique “Kisses Islets” in Dinagat ? The team of Kapwa Travel truly loves Mindanao and wants to promote the “land of promise”.

Kisses Islets, Libjo, Dinagat Islands

Northern Mindanao Adventure

A possible itinerary for beginners could be a combination of Camiguin and Cagayan.

Day 1: You arrive in Camiguin by airplane – there are flights from Cebu to Camiguin with Cebu Pacific Air. At the airport, you will be picked up and transferred to a nice beach cottage and enjoy the rest of the day getting used to your new beautiful environment.

Day 2: On an exciting tour around the island, you will discover cold springs, the “Ardent hot springs”, the “Katibawasan Falls” and many other sights before you will enjoy the sunset on a white sandbar with an impressive view of Camiguin.

Day 3: Mantigue Island will be your island hopping destination for today. You will dive or even snorkel in crystal clear water and enjoy a delicious BBQ by the beach.

Day 4: You will transfer to Cagayan de Oro, the “city of golden friendship” and check-in at your hotel. Discover the market and a trendy bar in the afternoon.

Day 5: Cagayan is famous for its “white water rafting”. You will start early in the morning and after rafting the river, you will discover the Mapawa Nature Park while horse-back-riding and go on a zipline-adventure.

Day 6: After check-out, you will be brought to the airport in order to fly back to Cebu, Manila or Davao City.

Find out more about this Mindanao tour package, soon. You can also get in touch with us , and we will customise this adventure trip for you.

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Vote for your favorite white water rafting tour!

USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

The rivers of the United States offer some of the world’s best white-water rafting opportunities, with thrills for experienced rafters and newbies alike. From white-knuckle rapids to more relaxed family floats, rafting is a great way to add a dash of adventure to a trip, and these 20 companies have been nominated by an expert panel for offering the best white-water rafting tours in the country. Which white-water rafting tour company would you most like to traverse the river with? Vote for your favorite once per day until polls close on Monday, May 27 at noon ET. The 10 winning tour companies will be announced on Wednesday, June 5. Read the official  Readers' Choice rules . 

The rivers of the United States offer some of the world’s best white-water rafting opportunities, with thrills for experienced rafters and newbies alike. From white-knuckle rapids to more relaxed family floats, rafting...   Read More

Best White Water Rafting Tour Nominees

Photo courtesy of ACE Adventure Resort Staff

ACE Adventure Resort

Oak Hill, West Virginia

Hoping to conquer the surging rapids of New River Gorge National Park during your next trip to West Virginia? Look no further than ACE Adventure Resort, a tour operator that specializes in day excursions ranging from beginner level jaunts to more thrilling expeditions for experienced rafters.

Photo courtesy of Adventures on the Gorge

Adventures on the Gorge

Lansing, West Virginia

Adventures on the Gorge specializes in white-water rafting trips in West Virginia. The most popular excursion takes guests along the Lower New River while navigating 25 rapids ranging from Class II to IV. Other options include the Upper New River and Gauley River.

Photo courtesy of VAWiley / E+ Getty Images

ARTA River Trips

Multiple locations

Established back in 1963, ARTA River Trips offers a wealth of curated outdoor adventure excursions that highlight the beauty of North America's western rivers. For those hoping to immerse themselves in the California wilderness, a multi-day rafting trip along the Tuolumne is a must-try, while Idaho's Main Salmon River is perfect for a more underrated getaway.

Photo courtesy of mauinow1 / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Dave Hansen Whitewater and Scenic River Trips

Jackson, Wyoming

A must-try for any outdoor adventure aficionados visiting Wyoming, Dave Hansen Whitewater and Scenic River Trips has been offering curated rafting excursions along Jackson Hole's Snake River since 1967. While 8-mile rafting trips are available for ambitious visitors, those who prefer to kick back and relax can opt for a leisurely and scenic 13-mile float instead.

Photo courtesy of Downstream Adventures

Downstream Adventures Rafting

Empire, Colorado

Downstream Adventures takes travelers on rafting trips through the heart of the Colorado Rockies via Clear Creek. Beginners navigate the 15 rapids of Middle Clear Creek, while more experienced rafters can take on the Lower or Upper Creek (or the full river). They also offer trips along the Upper Colorado River.

Photo courtesy of Echo Canyon River Expeditions

Echo Canyon River Expeditions

Canon City, Colorado

Echo Canyon is a white-water rafting outfitter in the state of Colorado, offering half-day, full-day, and multi-day expeditions on the Arkansas River. Guests can enjoy expeditions for all ages through Bighorn Sheep Canyon or adventures for more experienced thrill-seekers at Royal Gorge.

Photo courtesy of Kathy Sullivan's Mountain Photography

Glacier Guides and Montana Raft

West Glacier, Montana

Glacier Guides and Montana Raft can’t wait to take you rafting down the stunning Flathead River in Glacier National Park. Enjoy thrilling Class II-III white-water rafting adventures with various rafting experiences for a half-day or full day. Also available are overnight/multi-day trips for rafters of all levels.

Photo courtesy of Tim Bell

Green River Adventures

Saluda, North Carolina

Green River Adventures offers white-water rafting experiences from Saluda, North Carolina. Their Lower Green River adventure is great for families and those who prefer more moderate activity levels, while their Upper Green River experience is geared towards experienced white-water enthusiasts looking for heart-pumping excitement and Class IV rapids.

Photo courtesy of Hells Canyon Raft

Hells Canyon Raft

McCall, Idaho

This Idaho-based raft company believes every turn of the river has a story to tell, and their Hells Canyon rafting trips are "journeys through a land rich in myth and geologic wonder." Enjoy a three-, four-, five-, or six-day trip on the Snake River, where boulders and rockslides have created the biggest rapids in the Pacific Northwest. Between the rapids, watch for bighorn sheep, mountain goats, elk, and deer. For family fun, take a four- or five-day trip along the Salmon River, where the rapids are still exciting but family-friendly.

Photo courtesy of Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours

Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours

Durango, Colorado

Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours leads rafting trips in Colorado, Utah, and Arizona, with a river for just about any thrill level and trips lasting anywhere from a few hours to several days.

Photo courtesy of Nantahala Outdoor Center

Nantahala Outdoor Center

Bryson City, North Carolina

Appalachia is rife with incredible white-water rafting opportunities, and for those wishing to discover all that the region has to offer, the Nantahala Outdoor Center has got you covered. While Bryson City's Nantahala River plays host to the company's main headquarters, participants can set off on excursions all across the Southeast, with added bases along the Pigeon River, French Broad River, and a wealth of other locations.

Photo courtesy of Northwest Rafting Company

Northwest Rafting Company

Hood River, Oregon

Northwest Rafting Company specializes in rafting trips on Oregon’s Rogue River and Idaho’s Salmon River, though guests can also choose multi-day trips along the Owyhee, Illinois, or Chetco rivers. Specialty itineraries add in gourmet food or live bluegrass music. Trips last four to six days.

Photo courtesy of Dylan Silver / OARS

A veteran of the white-water rafting industry, OARS made their debut in 1969, with more than half a million customers served since then. Today, the company offers more than 75 distinct itineraries, taking guests to top-notch destinations spanning from Idaho’s Salmon River to Fiji’s Upper Navua Gorge.

Photo courtesy of PoconoWhitewater.com

Pocono Whitewater Rafting

Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania

Pocono Whitewater has white-water rafting adventures for everyone in the family, with no experience required. Paddle through 17 sets of rapids on a 12-mile trip with Class II-III rapids and astonishing scenery. Or take a guided, more relaxed family-style adventure with Class I-II rapids. There’s even a moonlight rafting experience where you leave at sundown and navigate through rapids by the light of the moon.

Photo courtesy of Rivers and Oceans

Rivers & Oceans

Flagstaff, Arizona

With Rivers & Oceans, adventurous travelers can explore the rivers of the western United States. Choose between one- to- multi-day trips through the Grand Canyon or multi-day rafting itineraries in Utah, Oregon, Arizona, Idaho, or even Alaska.

Photo courtesy of Chad Case x ROW Adventures

ROW Adventures

ROW Adventures has gotten guided outdoor recreation down to a science. Their expertly guided rafting trips take guests down some of the most scenic and exciting rivers in Idaho, Oregon, and Montana, with plenty of one-day and multi-day trips available.

Photo courtesy of Western River Expeditions

Western River Expeditions

Western River Expeditions has more than 60 years of experience guiding trips along the rivers and canyons of the American West. Today, the company offers itineraries in Arizona (Grand Canyon), Utah, Idaho, and Oregon.

Photo courtesy of ranplett / E+ Getty Images

Wet Planet Rafting and Kayaking

White Salmon, Washington

With trips spanning from single-day jaunts to nearly one-week outings, Wet Planet Rafting and Kayaking is perfect for a lengthy foray along the rushing rivers of the Pacific Northwest. Guests can discover swift currents and natural hot springs on a five-day Owyhee River excursion, while the region's Wind River is a top choice for seasoned rafters thanks to its Class V rapids.

Photo courtesy of Wilderness Voyageurs

Wilderness Voyageurs

Ohiopyle, Pennsylavnia

With Wilderness Voyageurs, guests can enjoy several different white-water rafting adventures on rivers in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and West Virginia. They offer trips for all skill levels and ages, with some suitable for young children.

Photo courtesy of Wildwater

Wildwater, the Southeast's "original professional outfitter," has been leading white-water rafting trips since 1971. With outposts on three rivers throughout the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains, Wildwater offers a variety of rafting trips ranging from family-friendly to wildly epic.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Chelle koster walton.

Chelle Koster Walton — the Local Expert for...   Read More

Chelle Koster Walton — the Local Expert for Naples, Florida and the Caribbean — has been covering the destination for 30 years. Her top-selling  Sarasota, Sanibel Island, and Naples  guidebook (Countryman Press) is in its sixth edition. She was contributing editor for  Caribbean Travel & Life  for 12 years and has written guidebooks on the Bahamas. A veteran travel writer, Chelle has published thousands of articles for  Miami Herald, USA TODAY, Latitudes;  has written/contributed to a dozen guidebooks, and produces travel shows for the local PBS station.

Chez Chesak

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor...   Read More

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie is an attorney, writer and photographer. She...   Read More

Jamie is an attorney, writer and photographer. She was born with deeply ingrained wanderlust and has visited 45 countries and counting. She often brings her children along for the adventure and is passing her love of travel on to the next generation. Jamie has written for   Insider,   Fodor's Travel ,   Yahoo ,  the Huffington Post , the  Washington Post,   Viator  and  Reviewed  among many other publications. Jamie is from Philadelphia and now lives in Washington, DC, where she takes advantage of everything the region has to offer.    Jamie can be reached at  [email protected]  and can be found on  Twitter ,  Instagram  and  TikTok .

Meg St-Esprit

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh...   Read More

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh who covers family travel, lifestyle, education, and parenting. With their four kids in tow, she and her husband love to travel anywhere and everywhere — but have a soft spot for camping and outdoor adventures. In fact, her kids are well on their way to achieving their goal of visiting all 124 state parks in Pennsylvania. Meg believes travel doesn’t need to be luxurious or costly to be valuable, and aims to share that with her audience. Meg’s work has appeared in publications such as  The New York Times, Thrillist, The Washington Post, Fodor’s, Yahoo, Good Housekeeping, Romper , and more. Follow Meg on Instagram and Twitter at @megstesprit or check out her work on  https://megstesprit.com/

Catherine Smith

Catherine Smith, Readers' Choice Awards...   Read More

Catherine Smith, Readers' Choice Awards Production Manager and Social Media Director for USA TODAY 10Best, has a special interest in unique culinary experiences and  off-the-beaten-path adventures. Catherine is the founder of  Her Bags Were Packed  where she focuses on helping  women release emotional baggage through solo travel and self-discovery.

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

The Rick Steves guide to life

Travel mogul. Philanthropist. Legal weed champion. The real Rick Steves is so much more complex than who you see on TV.

EDMONDS, Wash. — At first glance, it is hard to tell that Rick Steves is protesting.

In the center of his hometown, America’s favorite travel host is perched on the edge of a fountain roundabout engaging in some friendly civil disobedience. As cars circle the intersection, Steves smiles and waves, looking more like an Elf on a Shelf than an angry picketer. This is his way of reminding people he wishes they’d stop driving here.

Steves’s family moved to Edmonds when he was 12, and the 68-year-old is still happy to call it home. Rather than relocate to his beloved Europe, he dreams of bringing some European sensibilities to the edge of the Puget Sound, less than 20 miles north of Seattle.

When he’s not traveling around Europe, writing about Europe or running his multimillion-dollar European tour company, the prolific TV host and author likes to squeeze in some local activism. The roundabout routine is his push to block off Edmonds’s very American Main Street for pedestrians. If you squint at it, you can see what Steves sees: This would be the perfect place for a lively town square.

“I like a lot of things about Europe, but I love the urban energy of Europe. I love the piazza,” Steves said in a wistful tone you might recognize from PBS. “We don’t have a piazza.”

Unfortunately for Steves, the voting majority of the city does not love the idea of parking their SUVs farther away to shop. So despite his Boy Scout enthusiasm, the most famous man in Edmonds must keep up the perch-and-wave. This is not his only crusade.

Spend any amount of time with Steves, and you’ll encounter a total ham who loves a zany bit. But if you ask him about serious issues such as car-free zones, he’ll bring up other causes that are dear to him: affordable housing, supporting the arts, creating senior centers for the elderly to age with dignity.

He’s anti-Trump and pro-cannabis. He does not care if that is bad for business.

The average Rick Steves fan has probably missed this side of him. On TV, they see an always-sunny history lover who makes going abroad feel approachable for the average American. That’s an incomplete picture, like thinking you know Paris because you’ve seen the Eiffel Tower on YouTube.

Meet him in Edmonds, and he’ll fill in the rest.

It may look like a lot of gallivanting, but being Rick Steves takes a lot of work.

He spends three months of the year overseas, researching, writing, recording, refining tours, updating guidebooks. If he’s not planning or producing content, he’s often doing promotional events across the United States. This year, Steves is celebrating the 40th edition of his first book, “Europe Through the Back Door.” Over the course of his career, he has built a privately held company that generates $120 million in revenue a year, published 110 books, filmed 12 seasons of “Rick Steves’ Europe” and produced more than 750 podcast episodes.

“It’s just like coordinating a three-ring circus,” Steves said.

That is: really fun, sort of exhilarating and extremely complicated. To pull this off, Steves does not observe the French 35-hour workweek. He’s a workhorse with a reputation for keeping a frenetic pace year-round.

“It’s more of an American work culture,” Amy Duncan, Steves’s communications director, told me. “He’s an unapologetic capitalist, but he is also a socialist.”

He makes enough money to fly first class, but he sits in only economy, claiming that he doesn’t mind being cramped.

“It never occurred to me that I’m suffering,” he said. “As long as I’ve got an aisle and a seat that reclines, I’m happy.”

Actually, Steves believes airlines should have only one class. It’s part of his egalitarian worldview. He’s also anti-points and anti-miles, refusing to sign up for airline loyalty programs because he believes that they bully us into complicating our lives.

Steves also enforces a self-imposed “ carbon tax ” on his tour company, which takes more than 30,000 people to Europe annually. For every customer, Steves invests $30 to atone for emissions created by their flights between the United States and Europe. Last year, that added up to $1 million donated to a portfolio of organizations, Steves said.

“I don’t need to be a slave to the quarterly profit statement. I want to be around and profitable in 10 years from now in a world that you can travel in that’s stable,” Steves said. “This is a smart investment, and it’s an ethical expense that I should pay for.”

Rick Steves will tell you he’s motivated by making money; the more he can earn, the more good he can do with it.

“Vicarious consumption, that’s one of my things,” Steves said.

After amassing a windfall from the 2001 George W. Bush tax cuts for high earners, Steves donated $1 million to support the local symphony and performing arts center. In 2005, he used retirement savings to buy a 24-unit apartment complex for the local YWCA’s use as transitional housing for women and children. He figured he’d eventually sell the complex and live on the earnings. About a decade later, he changed his mind and donated the complex valued at $4 million.

He also gave more than $4 million to help build the Edmonds Waterfront Center, a vibrant gathering place for seniors where his daughter had her wedding in 2021. And he gave another $2 million for a similar center in the nearby city of Lynnwood, which broke ground in mid-April .

“Rick puts his money where his mouth is,” said Nancy Leson, a former Seattle Times food critic who used to let Steves’s daughter babysit her son. She has appreciated his regular presence in the community, which has entailed hosting events for local politics at his house and shopping at the farmers market .

“He changed travel,” local resident Karen Howe said on her way into the Waterfront Center with a friend. She has used Steves’s guidebooks for years. “He’s introduced us to places that most of us would never think of going.”

Steves hasn’t won his piazza battle, but he has brought European touches to Edmonds. At the Rick Steves’ Europe headquarters, there’s an E.U. flag hanging from the mocha brick facade. And gargoyles that drain rainwater, just like at the Notre Dame cathedral.

“Gargoyles scare away evil spirits,” Steves points out, unable to suppress his inner tour guide.

Here Steves employs more than 100 people: editors, audio producers, tour specialists and cartographers such as Dave Hoerlein, his first employee. That’s excluding the fleet of guides and drivers he contracts across the pond to shepherd tour customers.

Inside, he bounds through a maze of cubicles, his neck craned forward, always at an eager pace. His 6-foot frame appears leaner than in previous seasons of his life, but his signature look is familiar. No, not khakis and a button-down. That’s vintage Rick. These days, he wears dark jeans and a button-down, plus a thin scarf and leather sneakers.

During a day of meetings, Steves’s fjord-blue eyes lit up at the minutia of the business. He went over new maps with Hoerlein. He and longtime co-author Cameron Hewitt addressed problems such as finding a “less glitzy” stop on the Amalfi Coast that’s not Sorrento. They discussed whether a place is worth visiting after it’s gotten too popular, and Steves indulged in some gallows humor.

“It’s going to be like holding the corpse of a loved one who just died,” he said.

His critics argue that the “Rick Steves Effect” can turn a charming village, restaurant or museum into a tourist magnet. Matthew Kepnes, the travel writer behind the blog Nomadic Matt , points to the Swiss town Zermatt, which he says Steves put on the map, and has since dealt with overtourism . You’re bound to bump into groups with Rick Steves guidebooks in Italy’s increasingly crowded Cinque Terre.

Whether Steves is actually to blame for changing a place is up for debate. There are plenty of destinations he’s covered that haven’t been inundated with swarms of Americans (see also: Gdańsk).

Steves says he assesses whether a place wants tourism, if it can handle it gracefully. If it doesn’t or can’t, he may mention it but not promote it.

He has faith — maybe too much — that his clients share his values.

“Does [my work] change the personality of a town? It can. Am I a dramatic impact on Europe? No,” he said.

“There’s a handful of places I really promote aggressively that I’ve had a serious impact on, but otherwise ... my travelers are the kind of people that take only pictures and leave only footprints. ... They’re good travelers.”

You don’t have to spend much time in Edmonds to see why Steves never considered leaving.

The city — population roughly 42,000 — sits on a majestic inlet. You can get to a major international airport in about an hour. The community is so courteous, it has an “umbrella share” program in case people forget their own on a rainy day. As Steves walks around town, he greets people by name. He lives within walking distance to both his favorite diner and a pétanque court, the French answer to Italian bocce. He plays bongos at his church on Sundays.

In 1967, Richard “Dick” Steves moved the family here because he was worried about Rick Junior.

“I was hanging out with dangerous kids and going down the wrong trail,” Steves said. Seriously.

His dad, an Army veteran, got by in the upscale suburb as a piano technician and importer. When Steves was 14, his parents dragged him on a work trip to Europe to visit piano factories; it was a radical experience that sparked his lifelong passion for travel.

Back in Edmonds, Steves started teaching piano, eventually turning his savings into trips abroad of his own — not only to Europe, but also to Turkey, Nepal, Afghanistan. He went to college nearby, earning degrees in European history and business from the University of Washington, where he played in the Husky Marching Band.

After graduating, Steves figured he could keep up his routine: give piano lessons during the school year, then travel during the summer. He started teaching travel classes in the same recital hall where his piano students performed. This was back when there was no internet and there were few guidebooks to consult for trip planning.

The classes were a hit. At 25, Steves turned his lecture materials into a 180-page book, and self-published “Europe Through the Back Door,” in 1980.

Four years later, he hosted his first European minibus tour group, serving as both bus driver and guide.

His businesses have evolved; his bus tours now take up to 28 travelers, a number Steves says is a sweet spot between making the tour more affordable yet enjoyable for customers and profitable for the company. But his mission has remained the same: to be the best resource for European travel and help Americans travel better.

“I just focus on that and I love it,” he said. “It takes my life out of balance — which is not good — but it lets me do a lot of stuff that I believe in and that’s good.”

Steves has been open about the challenges of being a travel mogul. As he built his empire, he was also raising a family. Being “married” to both took a toll. In 2010, Steves and his wife, Anne, divorced after 25 years of marriage.

Up the hill from his junior high, Rick Steves’s modest beige home offers a window into his many lives. There are family photos on the walls, from older relatives to his baby grandson, Atlas. He hosts political fundraisers on the sprawling deck. A painting of Kerala, India, nods to one of his favorite countries. (People forget that Steves did four editions of “Asia Through the Back Door.”)

Next to his grand piano, there’s a stuffed creature that Steves calls his “Silver Fox” baring its teeth and wearing novelty sunglasses with cannabis leaves on the lenses — a nod to two of his interests: taxidermy and marijuana activism.

“It’s the civil liberties. … It’s the racism. … Everything about it is wrong,” he said of keeping weed illegal.

As for the toothy fox, Steves doesn’t do typical souvenirs anymore, but he makes an exception for stuffed animals.

“The wooden shoes and the pewter Viking ships are so obvious,” he said. “I like to do something a little more organic and a little more striking, and it takes me back there — I like it.”

He’s a very good piano player. He can also play the sousaphone and the trumpet — which he did regularly during the pandemic, performing taps for his neighbors at sunset.

The coronavirus was a nightmare for the travel business, but a miracle for Steves’s love life.

After running in the same social circles for years, he and Shelley Bryan Wee, a prominent local bishop, started dating at the end of 2019. They had a lot in common. Both are progressive Lutherans. Both are divorced with adult children. But neither worked a typical 9-to-5, and one of them spent three months of the year in Europe.

Then shutdowns happened. Steves, who couldn’t remember whether he’d ever had dinner in the same place 10 nights in a row, spent 100 nights at the same table with Wee. It solidified their relationship.

“Shelley is a constant,” Steves said. He still struggles with the balancing act between work and love.

When the stars align and they’re both in Edmonds, Wee cooks, and Steves plays sous-chef. They walk Jackson, Wee’s labradoodle, creating their own version of the passeggiata, Italy’s traditional evening stroll. They play table tennis before dinner.

When the world reopened, they started traveling together. They’ve made time for a few big vacations: a trip to Morocco, where they were caught in a windstorm that blew the windows out of their car; a luxury barge cruise through Burgundy, France, “that was embarrassingly expensive,” Steves confessed, followed by a week hiking in the Swiss Alps; and another hiking trip between remote lodges on Mont Blanc.

Before their first trip, Steves edited the contents of Wee’s suitcase, because packing light is part of his philosophy.

“What do you say?” she asked. “You’re talking to Rick Steves.”

Editing by Gabe Hiatt. Additional editing by Amanda Finnegan. Design editing by Christine Ashack. Photo editing by Lauren Bulbin. Videos by Monica Rodman. Senior video producer: Nicki DeMarco. Design by Katty Huertas. Copy editing by Jamie Zega.

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Nude cruise to set sail from Florida next year: Here are the starting costs, itinerary

The "Big Nude Boat" cruise, which allows passengers to bare all − yes, even at the buffet − is set to sail from Florida next year.

The "11-day adventure" to the Caribbean is set for the first two weeks of February on the Norwegian Pearl, according to the Bare Necessities Tour & Travel website.

"Bare Necessities’ newest nude cruise is a private island double-dip with a brand new travel partner!" the company wrote on its website.

The trip which embarks from Miami, includes "an exclusive visit to an idyllic private island" in The Bahamas as well a another exclusive stop on the way back to the Port of Miami.

"Two opportunities to enjoy a new slice of Bare-adise, coupled with a beautiful selection of Eastern Caribbean island stops, will make this a can’t miss Big Nude Boat experience," the travel company posted.

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Big Nude Boat cruise sailing dates and destinations:

The ship departs from the Port of Miami on Feb. 3 and returns to the same port on Feb. 14.

The itinerary includes stops at the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, St. Maarten, Dominica, Martinique and St. Lucia.

How much does the Big Nude Boat cruise cost?

Rates for an inside cabin start at $2,000 per person.

They stretch as high as $33,155 for the top room on the ship: a Haven three-bedroom garden villa.

Laws of the land (and sea)

Guests are encouraged to park their bare behinds on towels provided on board in areas including the pool deck and the buffet area, according to the website.

"Passengers can easily follow our rule on nudist etiquette by always placing a towel down before sitting," it reads. "Remember to pack a swimsuit; not all excursions are clothing optional."

Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her on X @nataliealund.

Protect Your Trip »

The best swimming with pigs tours in the bahamas.

Discover how to responsibly swim with pigs in the Bahamas.

Swimming With Pigs in the Bahamas

Getty Images

Reels of people frolicking with pigs on a beach in the Caribbean have more than likely surfaced on your TikTok and Instagram feeds at one point or another. After all, millions of people partake in this quintessential Bahamas experience each year, and the attraction is so popular that it's been replicated in other destinations.

If swimming with pigs in the Bahamas is on your bucket list, read on to discover the best tour options as well as what to consider when you visit.

Which Bahamas island has swimming pigs?

Located in the Exumas, Big Major Cay – commonly known as Pig Beach – is the original Bahamas island with swimming pigs. It is accessible from several islands in the Bahamas as well as Florida. Most swimming pig tours include other tourist attractions and experiences, including snorkeling in Thunderball Grotto (a filming location for two James Bond movies) and swimming with nurse sharks at Compass Cay.

How to get to Pig Beach from the Exumas

Staniel Cay: Staniel Cay is the closest inhabited island to Big Major Cay. Guests of Staniel Cay Yacht Club can take a short boat ride to Pig Beach via a local charter. 3N's Vacation Services and Staniel Cay Adventures are both reputable companies that offer such options.

Great Exuma: The largest island in the Exumas, Great Exuma houses some of the best resorts in the Bahamas , including the family-friendly Grand Isle Resort & Residences and the adults-only Sandals Emerald Bay . To get to Pig Beach from Great Exuma, it's best to book directly with your hotel. You'll have the option to take a full-day tour (with a roughly two-hour boat ride to the attractions from Great Exuma) or fly to Staniel Cay and take a short boat ride to Big Major Cay from there.

How to get to Pig Beach from Nassau

Pig Beach is reachable from Nassau via plane and/or boat. Below are some of the top-rated swimming pig tours from the Bahamas' capital city:

3N's Vacation Services: Swimming Pigs Flight & Tour

Price: From $675 per person Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours

This full-day, all-inclusive tour transports passengers from Nassau to Staniel Cay by plane, where you'll continue your excursion via boat. The tour includes several stops and activities:

• Swimming with pigs and feeding them tour-provided food at Pig Beach
• Swimming with nurse sharks at Compass Cay
• Snorkeling at Thunderball Grotto
• Visiting the iguanas of Guana Cay
• Strolling along a stunning sandbar
• A stop near Pablo Escobar's mysterious sunken plane on Norman's Cay

Snacks, lunch, soft drinks, beer and water are covered in tour rates; snorkel gear and towels are provided. Children ages 2 and younger are free, though this tour is not recommended for young kids. While tour groups are limited to 12 guests at maximum, private tours are available for a more intimate experience. Recent reviewers say they enjoyed this tour, though some expressed mixed feelings about the captains.

Check prices & availability on:

Born Free Charters: Exuma Island Hopping and Swimming Pigs

Price: From $439 for adults; $329 for kids ages 2 to 6 Duration: 9 hours

This tour departs from Paradise Island by high-speed powerboat and stops at the following destinations:

• Allen Cay, to visit Bahamian rock iguanas
• Compass Cay, for swimming with the nurse sharks
• Great Exuma, for a Bahamian-style lunch buffet (included in tour rate)
• Norman's Cay, for snorkeling
• A sandbar for some beach time

Recent travelers highly recommend this tour, praising the guides, the lunch and the overall experience. Per the tour provider, this tour isn't recommended for children younger than 2, pregnant women, or those suffering from chronic back and/or neck pain.

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How to get to Pig Beach from Florida

There are a few reputable companies that offer Pig Beach tours from Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Below is a well-rated option:

Bahamas Air Tours: Miami to Bahamas Day Trip

Price: From $949 per person Duration: 12 hours

This full-day tour starts with private transportation from Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport. It also includes in-destination transportation to Pig Beach, Guana Cay, Thunderball Grotto, Compass Cay and the sandbars at Staniel Cay. Both alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages are included in the price as well. Recent travelers rave about this experience, with some noting it's the best tour they've ever taken.

Note that passports are required for this day trip, and that while children are permitted on the tour, it's not ideal for young kids. This excursion is also ill-suited for pregnant women, and the tour operator requires a doctor's clearance for expectant mothers. Tours are limited to nine guests (but require a minimum of five participants); private charters are also available.

Is Pig Beach ethical?

Even though the Bahamas limits the number of tour operators allowed to visit Pig Beach per day, there's some controversy surrounding the island and whether or not it's ethical to visit.

In 2017, several pigs were found dead after an influx of tourists left snacks on the beach, causing the pigs to ingest too much sand. Also, travelers can be aggressive with the pigs, often chasing them, picking them up or even trying to ride them.

In recent years, a number of safety measures have been put in place to protect both the pigs and tourists. Per the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, they include the following:

• A trough provides a designated feeding place for the pigs.
• Signage communicates rules to tourists, including what you can and cannot feed to the pigs. The pigs are restricted to a diet of fruits and vegetables, such as carrots, grapes, watermelon, apples and lettuce, and many guides supply these items for tourgoers. Some tour guides will provide bread as well, though processed food is not ideal for these animals.
• A local taskforce of caretakers is on the ground daily to ensure visitors and tour operators are engaging with the pigs responsibly.

While the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism maintains that the attraction is sustainable, know that there aren't any legal limitations protecting the pigs at this time.

How to be a responsible traveler at Pig Beach 

All tour guides are expected to share the following protocols with travelers; whether they do or not, it is important to respect these rules for both the safety of the pigs and you: 

• Remain calm at all times.
• Do not chase, pick up or ride the pigs.
• Do not engage with the pigs without supervision.
• Only use approved food from your tour operator, and do not feed the pigs alcohol.
• If you do not have feed, hold your hands up to show the pigs you do not have anything.

What to pack for your excursion

Pack a beach bag , dry bag or backpack with the following items:

• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Beach towel
• Camera and/or phone
• Waterproof phone pouch with lanyard
• Change of clothing
• Windbreaker or light jacket (in case of rain and because it gets chilly on the water)
• Cash and/or credit card (for tour guide tip and other purchases)

It's best to wear a swimsuit and a cover-up or T-shirt with sandals for the trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

There are several theories about the origin of the swimming pigs. The most logical is that when the Exumas gained popularity with the rich and famous in the 1980s and '90s, the resident pigs were too smelly to stay and were hence moved to the uninhabited island of Big Major Cay.

It is generally safe provided you're respectful of the animals. However, you should keep in mind that the pigs are known to bite if they're hungry and think you might have food you're not sharing. Because Big Major Cay is their home, they also defecate on the shoreline and in the water.

Most tour operators do not allow children under age 2 on these excursions, and based on our experience, we don't recommend bringing toddlers and young children in general — even if rates are free or discounted for them. Wait until your kids are a bit older.

Swimming with pigs on Big Major Cay – the original Pig Beach in the Bahamas – will cost you several hundred dollars – in part because Big Major Cay is a remote destination only accessible by boat. Of course, it is also pricey because of its popularity. Copycat experiences like swimming with the pigs on Rose Island are cheaper, but less authentic.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Amanda Norcross previously visited Pig Beach during a press trip to the Bahamas. Disheartened by tourists' mistreatment of the pigs, she aims to educate travelers on how to visit Big Major Cay and other animal-centric destinations responsibly.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Caribbean Vacations
• The Best All-Inclusive Caribbean Resorts
• The Best International Travel Insurance

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