Come Again in Camiguin: A 2018 Tour Guide

Introduction

Hello once more dear reader! A quick trivia: did you know that Camiguin was taken from the phrase “come again” as spoken in Bisaya dialect. I’m not sure if this is true but Camiguin has lots to offer for discerning tourists…pristine beaches, amazing waterfalls, relaxing hot and cold springs, interesting sights and many more! Enough talk…let’s explore the Island Born of Fire!

Camiguin Island

Here we go!

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The Basics

Camiguin is a small island located at the middle of Visayas and Mindanao region. As the catphrase suggests, Camiguin was formed due to several volcanic eruptions. Presently, it has five volcanoes where two is considered active (Mount Hibok-Hibok and Mount Vulcan). Mambajao is the island’s capital and the main location of business establishments, restaurants and accommodations. The municipalities are connected by a 2-lane circumferential road which is nicely paved by the way. Local mobile signal is good (horay for cell towers) except on remote areas of the island.

Tips

1. The best time to visit is during October (Lanzones festival) to April. We were told that the weather is sunny during ‘ber’ months (which is ridiculously rainy at Manila). The Holy Week (transpires between March to April) are full of tourists and devotees so be prepared particularly for lodging. The rest of the year is lean months.

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How to get there

From Manila

1. Take a plane from NAIA to Laguindingan Airport (approx. 1.5 hours).
2. From Laguindingan Airport take a van to Centrio Mall at CDO town proper (Php 180, approx. 40 minutes).
3. From Centrio Mall take a taxi to Agora Bus Terminal (approx. Php 100, approx. 15 minutes depending on traffic). At Agora Bus Terminal, pay Php 3 terminal fee.
4. From Agora Bus Terminal take either a bus or van bound for Butuan (deluxe bus-Php 170/pax, approx 2.5 to 3 hours)
5. Alight to Balingoan Bus Terminal. Purchase a ferry ticket at Balingoan Bus Terminal bound for Benoni Port (Php 214/pax or depending on the ferry boat company).
6. From Balingoan Bus Terminal walk to Balingoan Port. Pay Php 15 terminal fee at Balingoan Port (Balingoan to Benoni Port approx. 1.5-2 hours).
7. From Benoni Port take either...
• A multicab to Mambajao town proper (Php 25/pax, appox. 40 minutes) and motorela (a bike with 10-seater capacity) special trip if your lodging is beyond the town proper (Php 100/motorela or
• A motorela special trip to your accommodation (*Php 400/motorela if beyond the town proper)

Cebu has direct flights to Camiguin. You may opt for this option if you plan to visit various Visayas and Mindanao regions in one go.

Ferry Ticket Booth at Balingoan Bus Terminal.

Super Shuttle Ferry schedule

Philstone Shipping schedule. This our back-and-forth ferry to Camiguin.

Hello Balingoan Port!

Benoni Port

Tips

1. When travelling from Manila, provide ‘delay time’ when computing your ETA at Camiguin. As a rough guide, our travel time from CDO town proper to our Camiguin accommodation at Mambajao is approximately 6 hours (6:00am-12:00nn) under good weather conditions.
•  Add 15 to 30 minutes waiting time at Agora Bus Terminal.
• Add 30 minutes to 1 hour waiting time at Balingoan Port (the ferry boat schedule is unreliable).
2. Our go-to van from airport to CDO town proper and vice versa is Lax Shuttle. They have a terminal at Centrio Mall where you can take a ride back to the airport (last trip is at 8:00pm, fare from Centrio Mall to airport is Php 200).
3. At Agora Bus Terminal, take the deluxe bus for a comfortable ride at a cheaper cost.
4. A local blogger advised not to rely on the ferry boat’s last trip—they often cancel it due to a small number of passengers.
5. Under good weather conditions, you can still make it to Camiguin if you’re at CDO town proper not later than 1:00pm.
6. At Camiguin, haggle politely for special trips. As a rule of thumb, the base price is based on farthest fare multiplied by seating capacity. This means a one-way trip via motorela will cost Php 100 (Php 10 fare x 10-seater capacity). Take also into consideration the transport’s regular route and distance from point A to B. *The Php 400 motorela is reasonable: Php 200 (back and forth) from Benoni Port to Mambajao town proper plus Php 200 (back and forth) from Mambajao town proper to your destination.

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The People

The locals are friendly and courteous to tourists. Bisaya dialect is the main language but they can also understand and speak the Tagalog dialect very well. In general, most Filipinos can converse in basic English so there’s no language barrier at Camiguin. To our surprise and delight, most of the local guides we met are pretty good in taking tourist photos.

A popular pose at the Sunken Cemetery cross marker.

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Crime and Theft

As far as I know, Camiguin has zero crime rate. You can leave your things without worry of theft (if you do that in Manila say bye bye to your stuff).

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Where to Eat

Most of the resto around the island is located at Mambajao area which mainly serves Italian cuisine (La Dolce Vita, Casa Roca Inn to name a few). For a taste of Filipino dishes try out Northern Lights, Samuel by Vjandep and several turo-turo stalls. If you lack funds, Check Point is the place to go for afforadble food. One stall offers basic buffet breakfast for Php 160 only—that’s sick cheap! For people who love chicken, there are several lechon chicken stalls along the main road. If you’re on a really tight budget (or downright thrifty), you can always buy groceries before going to Camiguin like we did.

Inside Samuel by Vjandep

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Where to Stay

Here are the list of accredited board and lodging at Camiguin. We stayed at Casa Roca Inn since Janella loves a beachfront view. More on that here (coming soon).

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How to Roam Around

Camiguin’s public transportation is multicab and motorela. For more than 10 pax, multicab is the way to go (Php 1700/day); for 10 pax or less, go for motorela (Php 100 base fare). For couples and solo travelers, opt for either rent-a-motorcycle (Php 350/day base price; driver’s license required) or a motorcycle with driver (Php 800 base price; entrance fee to sights not included).

Tips

1. Ask your lodging for recommended “rent-a-transpo” options for cost savings since most offer base price or lower. We got our rent-a-motorcycle for Php 300 only—not bad isn’t it?
2. As a rough guide, a full tank automatic bike (with decent driving) can last up to a whole day of driving.
3. When driving a motorcycle, always bring your driver’s license, wear a helmet and observe traffic rules—traffic officers are situated around the island.

Always wear a helmet when driving a motorbike at Camiguin.

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Where to Go

There are many tourist attractions at Camiguin that caters to many tastes. Here are ones that we were able to visit:

Sunken Cemetery

Sunken Cemetery's view at the shoreline.

At the bottom of the cross market itself.

The site was once a cemetery but sank to the sea due to the volcanic eruption of Mt. Vulcan during the 18^th century. In the long run, a large cross was placed to commemorate the old cemetery. Today, the Sunken Cemetery is a protected marine sanctuary for almost 15 years, thriving with several species of fish and corals.

Tips

1. The local guides are very good and enthusiastic in taking tourists photos. Always say ‘thank you’ as a sign of appreciation and goodwill.
2. The best time to visit is during 3pm where the sea is calm and low tide. You’ll be able to see the corals and several tombstones beneath the sea. Take the Php 100 boat ride to see the original cross marker at the back of the big cross. For photo enthusiasts, the Sunken Cemetery has a magnificent sunset view so take the opportunity to capture it.
3. Have the courage to snorkel around the area. It may sound creepy but the locals say that the area is teeming with marine species. If my memory is correct, the fee is Php 450 which includes a boat ride, a snorkeling guide (you can’t snorkel without a guide) and snorkel gear.

Old Church Ruins

The Old Church Ruins was destroyed by the same volcanic eruption that caused the Sunken Cemetery to submerge underwater. Our guide told us that during the old days, you can walk from the Old Church Ruins to the Sunken Cemetery (the close proximity of church and cemetery is normal up to this day).

Marker citing the eruption of Mt. Vulcan that caused the destruction of the church.

The convent

A big old tree beside the convent.

The old church walls from the outside.

We found ourselves a nice spot for a prenup-ish shot lol.

There’s not much to see (walls, bell tower and a modern light house) but for an old church lover like me, it was a great experience! I’m amazed that the remaining walls made from corals stood the test of time and how Mother Nature can change a landscape in an instant.

Tips

1. There’s no entrance fee but a small donation will help a lot.
2. Take time to listen to the local guides for some history lesson. They are also enthusiastic in taking pictures too. Always say ‘thank you’ at the end of the short tour.

Bura Soda Water Swimming Pool

Bura Soda Water Swimming Pool

We chose this over Sto. Nino Cold Spring due to its unique Lime tasting (yes, we verified that) carbonated waters. There are two pools: 3ft for kids and 5-7ft for adults. There’s a drinking fountain where you can taste hints of Lime and a mild sensation of soda (yes, we verified that too). Entrance fee is Php 50/head.

Tips

1. The 5ft area is at the right side of the 5-7ft pool (when facing the arc sign).

Ardent Hot Spring

One of the shallow pools (beside the 5-6ft pool).

5-6ft pool

Ardent Hot Spring is the most popular hot spring at Camiguin. As I recall, they have 4 to 5 pools—the largest is 5-6ft deep. Most local bloggers say that the water is not that hot as it used to be since the bottom is already concreted. We swam at the 5-6ft pool because it was the least crowded so we can’t verify if the water temperature applies to all. Entrance fee is Php 50/head.

Tips

1. The 5ft area at the 5-6ft pool is at the far left beside the small pool.
2. Be careful when walking along the pool—the floor is slippery due to molds. 

Giant Clam Sanctuary

Giant Clam Sanctuary is one of the farthest but interesting tourists spot at Camiguin. The guides are adorable children with in-depth knowledge on clams (that’s succession planning for you). This is where we discovered that the Philippines has 6 out of 9 clam species in the world—amazing! Sadly, there’s a continuous stuggle to protect the clams from its primary predator: humans. You will also see the preservation measures (propagation by segregating young clams in a nurturing environment) that the locals are doing.

The young tourist guides of Giant Clam Sanctuary.

The six out of nine clam species that area only found in the Philippines.

You may snorkel around the designated area to see the clams up-close including corals as big as a house. Snorkeling fee is Php 450/head (if my memory is correct) which includes a guide and snorkel gear. If you have a snorkel gear, you pay less 50% on snorkel rental fees. Entrance fee is Php 25/head.

Tips

1. Visit the Giant Clam Sanctuary before sunset since there’s no street lighting along the circumferential road.

Tuasan Falls

Tuasan Falls

At Tuasan Falls, the water drops hard—period. Tuasan Falls has a raw, plain and imposing look—a waterfall’s male version if compared to Katibawasan Falls. The water is very cold so be cautious in taking a sudden dip. Entrance fee is Php 50/head.

Katibawasan Falls

Katibawasan Falls
(photo by Janella)

Katibawasan Falls is the opposite of Tuasan Falls. The water falls serene and the rock formations are full of lush fauna with different hues of Green. We’re in awe as we appreciate Mother Nature’s landscaping handiwork at its finest (with flying birds in the background). The water is also cold so test the waters first. Entrance fee is Php 50/head. Parking fee is Php 10.

Tips

1. Try out Kiping (Php 10/pc), a local crispy snack made from Taro with Arnibal (caramelized Brown Sugar) at the top.

Kiping

White Island

White Island is a small island that only appears during low tide. Every visit is a new experience since the island’s shape is dependent on the prevaling current and tide. It also has a mesmerizing view of the whole island—a perfect backdrop for a tourist photo. The waters are also great for swimming but be mindful of the depth (for someone who has a talent for drowning). There’s an environmental fee of Php 50/head while the boat rental is Php 450/6 pax. Travel time from port to White Island is about 5 minutes.

White Island

The picturesque view of Camiguin Island

Tips

1. The best time to visit is 5:00-5:30am to avoid the swarm of tourists.
2.  Some bloggers say that after lunch is also a good time to visit but we can’t verify that.
3. The locals say that White Island appears consistently without fail (except during inclement weather) so take time to visit it.
4. If your group is less than six, be on the lookout for local guides that offer a joiner (usually solo travelers) to save money.  We were able to complete 4 pax (plus one guide) and made new friends (shoutout to Carmila and Mik).
5. The local guides are very good in taking tourist photos—simply follow their instructions and let them do their magic. Always say ‘thank you’ at the end of the tour (shoutout to Carmila’s guide Kuya Nads).

Mantigue Island

Mantigue Island is a small island located Southeast of Camiguin. It has fine sand and wide area of fairly shallow waters. The swimminng area has a couple of corals and fish but situated far away from each other. There’s a marine sanctuary that you can swim for a fee but there’s no direction on its location. We think it’s located at the far left of the island.

Towards Mantigue Island

Mantigue Island marker (sort of)

Docked boats at the shoreline

Some of the marine creatures...
(photo by Janella)

...that live at near the shoreline.

If you’re really good at drowning (even in shallow waters) you may soak in the (scorching) sun, walk along the island’s perimeter (a 15 minute walk) or visit the nature park. There’s also a canteen but some bloggers say that the food is pricey. There’s an environmental fee of Php 50/head while boat rental is Php 500/6 pax (4 hours). Travel time from port to Mantigue Island is approximmately 25 to 30 minutes.

Tips

1. You may visit Mantigue Island from morning up to 4:00pm (boat rental closing time).
2. There are local guides who also present joiners to complete the boat capacity.
3. After paying the environmental and boat rental fee, go to the porter who will assign your boat. Every boat has a number located at the front side for easy location.
4. Bring snacks and water just like the locals do so you won’t be dependent on food stalls at the island.
5. Be mindful of the marine creatures that live in the swimming area. Most tourists step on the corals by accident which in turn stuns their growth and propagation.

Here are the other spots that you may also visit:

1. Sto. Nino Cold Springs
2. Walkway to Old Volcano-One of the least visited due to the time-consuming and tiring stair climb to the peak. The Stations of the Cross are located along the path thus it’s crowded during Holy Week.If you have ample time, try to reach the top for a breathtaking 360 degree view of Camiguin (including a bird’s eye view of Sunken Cemetery).
3. Binangawan Falls-The farthest tourist spot and often discouraged by guides due to the difficult terrain.
4. Katunggan Park-The nearest attraction at Benoni Port. It’s a mangrove area surrounnded with elevated wooden pathwalk. A great place to relax or take prenup photos.
5. Scuba diving
6. Mountain climbing (Mt. Hibok-Hibok is the most popular)

Walkway to Old Volcano

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Where to Buy Souvenirs

Don’t go home without without taking some souvenirs with you. The go-to place for ref magnets and keychains is at Sunken Cemetery (7 for Php 100). Just across the road is Janca Souvenir Shop that sells affordable tourist shirts. A favorite pasalubong and Camiguin’s most famous export product is Vjandep Pastel. It’s made from Dinner Rolls with Yema filling (Egg yolk and Condensed Milk). You can buy Vjandep Pastel at either the original store or Samuel by Vjandep (the compamy’s restaurant) located at the heart of Mambajao town proper. Their restaurant also sells other delicious delicacies from Visayas and Mindanao and ref magnets with top-notch quality.

Gasa by Vjandep

Besides souvenir items like ref magnets, they also sell
local snacks from nearby provinces.

Tips

1. If you’re a frequent traveler in the Philippines, you may observe that ref magnets and keychains have a repetitive base design—the only difference is the text. To have a truly unique souvenir, go for designs that are not recyclable (the 'I love insert name of place' is a good example—the shape is dependent on the text).
2. For tourist shirts, choose the one with quality fabric to prolong its lifespan especially when you intend to wear it frequently.
3. Vjandep Pastel is more delicous when freshly baked (based on personal experience).
4. If you’re buying lots of Pastel, purchase either 6 boxes of 12s or 12 boxes of 6s to avail the big box packaging for free.

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There you go dear reader! I hope this will encourage you to visit the island of Camiguin!

Please also check out Janella’s take on our Camiguin trip here!

Please look forward for my next blog! Ikimashou!