Camiguin Island

Camiguin Island

Camiguin Island

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Seven volcanoes, a sunken cemetery, waterfalls and pristine sandbars: a complete guide to discovering Camiguin, a micro volcanic island off northern Mindanao.

On Camiguin Island, discover a blend of nature and culture by heading north of Mindanao province. Its volcanic landscapes, beaches, waterfalls and unspoiled islets offer a range of experiences suited to all travelers. Here's an overview.

Discovering Camiguin Island

Nicknamed "the fire-born island," Camiguin captivates with its volcanic identity and pristine nature. Despite its modest size, it offers exceptional natural wealth including immaculate beaches, sandbars of remarkable purity, spectacular waterfalls, hot and cold springs, as well as historical sites steeped in memory.

Among its seven volcanoes, Mount Hibok-Hibok, still active, rises to 1,332 meters. From its summit, you can admire a 360° view over the entire island and ocean.

What to Do?

Discover White Island, an Open-Air Sandbar

White Island captures your attention immediately upon arrival. This pristine sandbar lies off Mambajao and offers an unobstructed view of Mount Hibok-Hibok and turquoise waters. Visit early in the morning to avoid the heat and enjoy ideal lighting for photographs.

Access it by boat from Yumbing Beach or book an excursion that combines White Island with other stops such as Mantigue Island and Katunggan Park. Don't forget sun protection, as there is no shade on the sandbar.

Explore the Sunken Cemetery

The sunken cemetery bears witness to a defining event in the island's history. After Mount Vulcan's eruption in 1870, the old town cemetery was submerged underwater. Today, a large white cross marks its location, visible from the shore or accessible by boat.

If you snorkel or dive, observe the gravestones covered in coral. You can also include this site in a land-based excursion that passes through other historical locations such as the ruins of the old church.

Explore Mantigue Island

Mantigue Island attracts with its crystal-clear waters and wooded areas. Swim, snorkel or paddleboard, hike the trails or settle on the sand to enjoy the setting. Add to this a stroll through the small fishing village.

Discover the Giant Clam Sanctuary

At Cantaan, in the municipality of Guinsiliban, the giant clam sanctuary deserves your attention. Snorkel to observe colorful giant clams and learn about the marine conservation efforts underway on the island. Calm, shallow waters ensure an accessible and pleasant experience for everyone, including families.

Enjoy Natural Springs and Moments of Relaxation

You can visit the island's hot or cold water springs to unwind after your explorations. At Ardent Hibok-Hibok Hot Spring, you can bathe in pools naturally heated by volcanic activity. The Sto. Niño spring invites you to refresh your day with its pristine water.

At Soda Water Park, relax in the bathing area surrounded by gardens, once famous for its naturally carbonated water.

Marvel at Waterfalls and Interior Landscapes

Katibawasan Falls welcomes you with its 76-meter drop into a clear pool, lined with vegetation. You can swim or take a moment for memorable photographs.

Accessible via a short walk along the river, Tuasan Falls offers you the chance to enjoy a more intimate and wild setting.

Discover the Ruins of Gui-ob Church

At the ruins of the old Gui-ob church, explore remnants from the Spanish era, with stone walls and a bell tower collapsed after Mount Vulcan's eruption. You walk among the ruins and sense the island's history while appreciating the resilience of its people.

Best Time to Visit Camiguin Island

This destination welcomes travelers year-round. Choose your period based on your travel objectives.

March to June: The Ideal Season

Between March and June, the island enjoys more stable weather, with clear skies and generally calm seas. This period facilitates travel and makes excursions more comfortable, whether land-based visits, hikes or boat trips.

These months are particularly suited to discovering White Island. At low tide, the sandbar reveals itself under pleasant lighting. For travelers attentive to weather conditions, this season is most favorable.

Late October: Festival Season

Late October coincides with one of the year's highlights with the Lanzones Festival, held every fourth week of the month. This celebration showcases the lanzone, Camiguin's emblematic fruit, through parades, street dances, entertainment and vibrant local cuisine. Staying on the island during this period allows you to combine natural exploration with cultural experiences.

July to November: Rainy Season

The period from July to November brings more frequent rainfall and, at times, less stable weather conditions. Camiguin is pleasant to explore, with lighter crowds, but some sea-based activities may be occasionally limited.

If you travel during this season, plan a flexible schedule and stay alert to forecasts. This approach allows you to adapt visits and take advantage of favorable windows when they arise.

How to Get There

By Direct Flight

Choose a flight if you want to arrive quickly at Camiguin. Camiguin Airport (CGM) welcomes regular flights from Cebu City, operated by Cebu Pacific.

From Manila or other major Philippine cities, simply make a stopover in Cebu City before continuing to the island.

To facilitate your arrival, arrange airport transfers from Camiguin Airport to your accommodation in advance.

By Ferry (via Bohol Island or Cagayan de Oro City)

Opt for the ferry if you wish to vary your routes and discover other regions along the way.

  • From Bohol Island: board at Jagna Port and reach Benoni Port in Camiguin. The crossing takes approximately four hours.
  • From Cagayan de Oro: first reach Balingoan Port by road, approximately two hours journey time. Ferries then provide service to Benoni Port in about an hour. Take advantage of this to organize excursions from Cagayan de Oro if your itinerary permits.

For a smoother arrival, book airport transfers between Camiguin Port and your hotel in advance.

By Private Car or Van

Choose a private car or van with driver to get around the island, particularly during a family or group stay. You manage your days without constraints and move between visits without losing time on transfers. Many Camiguin tour packages include private transfers.

By Tricycle or Multicab

Use tricycles for short trips or to easily connect different municipalities on the island. For groups, the multicab is a practical and friendly option thanks to its open format. Some drivers offer half-day or full-day services, allowing you to freely design your itinerary around Camiguin's major attractions.

If you prefer a more structured approach, several tour packages also include private transport services in multicabs or vans.

Motorcycle or Scooter Rental

Rent a motorcycle or scooter to explore Camiguin with complete freedom. You travel on well-maintained roads that circle the island and easily access waterfalls, hot springs, beaches and historical sites. Rentals are affordable and are arranged simply through your hotel or local agencies near ports and urban centers.

Many travelers choose this option over several days to venture beyond the most visited stops and discover more secluded locations.

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