Camiguin is the smallest province in Northern Mindanao, and it’s the second smallest province in the Philippines next to Batanes in terms of population. The Island Born of Fire is what most locals call Camiguin. The province has seven volcanoes in its vicinity; the most popular being Mt. Hibok-Hibok, known for astounding views from its peak and its historical importance to the people of this small, yet fascinating province.
One thing’s for sure, you won’t get bored in Camiguin. There are a lot of activities and attractions that will keep you yearning to extend your stay. From exploring an underwater cemetery to just chilling and feeling fine, white sands against your feet, Camiguin has everything for every kind of tourist. A day is not enough to enjoy the sites and beaches of the province. We recommend you allot at least three days to get the most of your stay.
We rented a motorcycle for the whole day during our stay so we didn’t have any problem exploring. You could ask your hotel if they have motorcycles for rent. Just remember to always use the helmets provided and keep your driver’s license with you at all times. The motorcycle rental was around P400 for 24 hours.
Here are some of the things you can do in Camiguin.
WHAT'S IN THIS GUIDE?
Build sand castles and beach bum in White Island
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Tourists have to take note that White Island is bare. There are no structures or huts to shield you from the heat of the sun. You may rent a picnic umbrella which costs around a hundred pesos. You can also bring a beach blanket to sit on the scorching sand. You may even bring your own tent. Be sure to apply sunscreen and reapply every so often to keep your skin from getting sunburnt.
White Island is about a 10-minute boat ride from the mainland of Mambajao. If you’re a solo traveler or with a group of fewer than three people, it is better to join other groups to cut down on cost. But if you’re a bigger group and you’d like flexibility in time, you can rent a whole boat. Also, overnight stay on the island is not allowed. Everyone must return to the main island before it gets dark.
Visit the Old Guiob Church Ruins
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The old Guiob church ruins paints the colorful but tragic past of Barangay Bonbon in Catarman, Camiguin where this structure is located. Upon entering the complex, you’ll see a stone with the carved history of the ruins. Further down the halls of what was left of the century-old church, you’ll see the actual bell tower of the Guiob Church. From what was written about the history of the ruins, the church was constructed during the 16th century by the Spaniards who colonized the country. And on that fateful day of May 13, 1781, an earthquake caused by the eruption of Mount Vulcan, shook the whole town and buried the whole church and the convent to the ground.
The walls that you’ll see surrounding the church complex are the actual walls that were left of the convent. There is also an enormous tree that miraculously survived the whole ordeal and still stands mightily amidst the ruins.
Explore the Underwater Tombs of the Sunken Cemetery
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After exploring the Old Church Ruins, you could go straight to the Sunken Cemetery which is just about 500 meters away from it. You have to rent a boat to get to the center where the giant cross is located.
During the short boat ride going to the cross, you’ll see corals and the sunken tombs underwater. Like the Old Church Ruins, the community cemetery got buried during the massive eruption of Mount Vulcan in 1781. But the cemetery further met its doom and got buried deeper into the sea during the 1948 and 1958 eruptions. The giant cross (made from molten lava) was built in 1982 to commemorate the place.
Trek to the Old Volcano (Mount Vulcan)
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The slopes of Mt. Vulcan is flanked with Stations of the Cross that leads all the way to the top. The locals said that this place becomes full of devotees during the holy week. There are also stalls across the area where you can buy souvenir shirts and other items, as well as food and water to take with you during your hike.
Relax in the Volcanic Springs of Camiguin
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After a long hike to the Old Volcano, a dip in the cold, hot, or soda springs of Camiguin is the best thing to do at the end of the day. Ardent Hibok-Hibok Spring Resort is one of the most famous spring complexes in Camiguin. There are huts that you can rent and spend your lunch in. Also, there are rooms and villas available for an overnight stay.
Go and Chase Waterfalls
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Katibawasan falls which sits at the foot of Mt. Timpoong is the most popular falls in the province, frequented by most tourists. The local government saw this as an opportunity to give livelihood to the people by setting up a park near the entrance of the falls. The stalls sell food, water, and souvenirs. Their specialty is kiping. It’s a local delicacy made from ground cassava and drizzled with chocolate syrup. It’s a delightful sweet that you can enjoy during your trip to the falls.
Katibawasan Falls stands at around 250 feet. There are other falls that you can explore like Binangawan and Tuasan Falls.
Where to Stay in Camiguin
If you prefer to stay near the beach, there are beachfront hotels and hostels in Mambajao adjacent to White Island. You’ll also get a great view of the sea from there. Here is a list of Mambajao hotels that are most recommended by Agoda users.
- Agohay Villa Forte Beach Resort. ✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
- Camiguin Volcan Beach Eco Retreat and Dive Resort. ✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
- D & A Seaside Cottages. ✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
- Nypa Style Resort Camiguin. ✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
For more options, search here: Camiguin Hotels
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