About Camiguin
Camiguin, known as the “Island Born of Fire,” is a small yet captivating destination in Northern Mindanao. Famous for its volcanoes, waterfalls, hot springs, and the iconic White Island sandbar, Camiguin offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or beach seeker, this island paradise has something unforgettable to offer.
Every time I hear the word Camiguin, I usually think of the best lanzones in the Philippines and the Sunken Cemetery. But during our visit, we saw how wealthy the top tourist spots and destinations in the province are in terms of natural beauty, making the province one of the best tourist attractions in the Philippines. Backpacking is not a big problem here because at the port, a multi-cab with a driver can be chartered for the whole day tour (and that’s what we did).
Actual Itinerary
So, after our Butuan City escapade, we headed to this beautiful province. From their terminal, we rode in a bus to Balingoan. Walked to the Port Area. Bought tickets, paid the terminal fees, and traveled an hour to Camiguin Port. Just by the port entrance, a driver approached us to bring us to all the tourist spots in the province.
Camiguin Tourist Destinations
Katibawasan Falls
The Katibawasan Falls is a 250-meter waterfall with cool and clear water flowing into a river system. The atmosphere in the area is calm because it is surrounded by trees that give fresh and clean air. The water is cold but relaxing because of the pressure, perfect for your tired muscles. Entrance fees are being collected. Souvenir shops are available by the entrance. It was the first tourist spot in Camiguin we visited; by the way, we started from the farthest.
Sto. Niño Cold Spring
With the help of our driver/guide, we followed the province's tourist spots map, and the next destination was Sto. Nino Cold Spring. You can easily expect fresh and cold spring water from its name. I had no plans to get wet, especially with the temperature of the water, but because of its super-duper clear water, I dipped into the water and experienced how great this cold spring was. I was also stunned by the bottom of the pool; there is no silt because it is made of concrete.
Tuasan Falls
Tuasan Falls is another stunning waterfall we found in a brochure of the Camiguin tourist spot. It is one of the must-visit attractions in the province because of its grandeur. Similar to the other waterfalls in the Philippines, it has water (of course), has a relaxing water pressure, and the area is surrounded by trees and woods. I think this falls is not that famous, so fewer people are good for you. During our visit, NO Entrance fees were collected. Stores are available by the entrance.
Bura Soda Swimming Pool
The Bura Soda Swimming Pool is also by the highway. I know you're wondering why they call it Soda. It is simply because the water coming out of this spring tastes like a soda, and it is safe to drink. Like the Sto. Nino Cold Spring, the Soda Swimming Pool, also has cool, refreshing, and crystal clear water.
Guiob Church Ruin
Creating an itinerary with all Camiguin tourist spots is easy because most of the destinations are by the highway. Next, the old Spanish Guiob Church Ruin was damaged by the volcanic eruption that happened centuries ago, damaging the other structures on the island. The ruin is composed of meter-wide walls and huge columns made of coral stones. Today, they are covered with mosses and plants.
Sunken Cemetery
In the 1800s, Mt. Vulcan was still an active volcano. Its first eruption was in 1827, then in 1862, and the most destructive was in 1871, causing the cemetery to sink. Then, it sank deeper when it erupted again in the 1960s. The Sunken Cemetery was a resting place, but today, it is probably one of the most visited attractions in the province. It's a place that gives money to the government and jobs to the locals. The best time to visit this Sunken Cemetery is during the dry season, that is, from December to May. The large cross was built by the government to mark the burial ground's location. To reach the cross and step on its base, visitors can rent a boat, of course, NOT for free. Souvenir shops and stores are available at the entrance.
Sunken Cemetery
After the tiring escapade, it's time to relax. The famous Mt. Hibok-Hibok of Camiguin is a good source of hot springs, like Ardent Hot Spring, our last destination for that day. Situated at the base of a volcano, Ardent has a wide land area composed of trees, plants, cottages, and other structures. Tourists usually make this hot spring their last destination to soothe their tired muscles. Spent an hour of relaxation here while my body was submerged in the warm water.
White Island
Due to bad weather conditions, we were unable to visit the famous White Island. We waited for good weather and the signal from NDRRMC to sail, but unfortunately, the local government closed it for that day. No choice but to say goodbye with malayo ang tingin shot.
Pastel de Camiguin
You can't complete your Camiguin experience without trying Pastel de Camiguin, one of their local delicacies. Don’t forget to have a short break and eat this sumptuous snack. It is not chicken pastel or pastel colors; it is bread with soft dough and yema fillings inside. Grabe! Iba talaga ang feeling habang kumakain ka nito. BABALA: It is addictive! Yung pasalubong ko, naubos ko sa Airport palang.
Affordable Hotels in Camiguin
Pabua's Cottages
We stayed at Pabua's Cottages for 1,200 pesos overnight. It's definitely one of the most affordable hotels or places to stay in Camiguin. The room or cottage is wide, with its clean rest and shower rooms, a TV with cable, a terrace, and three queen-sized beds. Since we were on a tight budget, we went to the market and bought our supplies, cooked, served with happiness, and then rested. Please note that the amount might change without prior notice. Other good resort choices are listed below:
- Lanzones Cabana
- July's Haven Seaside Pension
- Mabini Hotel
- GV Hotel
- Marianita's Cottages
How to Get to Camiguin
By Air: Book a flight from Manila to Camiguin Airport (CDO). Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia have their regular flights to CGM. At the airport, charter a habal-habal or jeepney to your destinations.
Summary
With its breathtaking landscapes, rich heritage, and warm hospitality, Camiguin proves that big adventures come in small packages. From sunrise at White Island to a soothing dip in hot springs, every moment on this volcanic island is a memory worth keeping. A trip to Camiguin is more than just travel—it’s an experience that stays with you. Looking for travel ideas across the country? Read my complete guide to visiting all 82 provinces in the Philippines — based on my actual travels.
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