2018 • 08 • 13

Canimog Island, also called Bundok Buwaya or Crocodile Island by the locals, is part of the Mercedes island hopping adventure you’ll do in Camarines Norte. Canimog is one of the biggest and has a diverse beachscape characterized by its sandy, pebbly, and rocky shores. There are a couple of hills you can go up to, getting an overlooking view of the surroundings. It also has a towering lighthouse which you can explore.

How to Get There

Nearest Airport: Naga Airport (Camarines Sur)

By Air

1. There are no direct flights to the town near the port that can take you on an island hopping tour; the closest you can get by plane is through Naga City from Manila. Travel time is around one hour.
2. Once in Naga, board a van (P190) or bus (P140) bound for Daet. The trip will take around two to three hours.
3. Once in Daet, you can ask a tricycle to take you to Mercedes Port. The tricycle fare to the port is around P150 for up to four people while jeepney fare is P10. Travel duration is 10-15 minutes.

By Land

1. The relatively easier and straightforward way of getting to the island is by taking an 8-hour bus ride from Metro Manila to Daet. There are several bus companies that ply this route; fares start at P550 and up, depending on the company and class of the seat.
2. Once in Daet, you can ask a tricycle to take you to Mercedes Port. The tricycle fare to the port is around P150 for up to four people while jeepney fare is P10. Travel duration is 10-15 minutes.

 

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Entrance Fee and Other Charges

• Entrance Fee: As of writing, no entrance fee.
• Boat Rental Rates: P2000 – P3500 (island hopping day tour); P4000 (overnight boat rental for those who want to go camping)
• Others: P150/hr; P500/day (kayak rental)

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Don’t Miss

• Canimog Island is a good place to relax and unwind because of its raw and idyllic atmosphere.
• You can go up the hills or the lighthouse to get a bird’s eye view of the island and the surroundings or explore the island further by hiking or trekking.
• Wade or swim in the waters and take many pictures of the beachscape.
• There are also spots for scuba diving if you want to dive.

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Don’t Forget

• Withdraw money from Daet or Naga City before traveling to the port as it may be the only time you will be able to do so.
• Bring a power bank to keep your devices charged and ready for selfies, groufies, and photo ops, or videos.
• You can have a picnic on the beach, so bring your own food and drinks. As always, leave no trace/trash behind.
• Keep your things dry by sealing them in plastics and a dry bag.
• The beach has varying terrain, better wear aqua shoes, sturdy slippers, or sandals.

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If You Have More Time and Budget

• After enjoying Canimog and the other islands of Mercedes, improve your surfing skills in Bagasbas Beach, go to Calaguas, or go for another round of island hopping in Caramoan. You can also beach bum on Cayucyucan Beach or go to Colasi Falls.
• You can also travel further south to Albay and Sorsogon.
• While in Daet, spend time exploring the Provincial Capitol of Camarines Norte, visiting Museo Bulawan, and taking a picture of the Rizal Monument.

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Where to Stay

If you are extending your visit to Daet, here are some of the recommended accommodations by Agoda users, in no particular order.

• Pineapple Island Resort. ✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
• Nathaniel Hotel. ✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
• Dolor Hotel. ✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
• D House Hotel. ✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY

For more options, search here: Daet Hotels