Things you can do in the Island Born of Fire

When you're looking for a simple but relaxing getaway, Camiguin island is one of the best places to visit in the Philippines. It is known as the island born of fire because of its number of volcanoes - Mt. Hibok-hibok is one of them. The island is 64 kilometers and consists 5 municipalities namely Mambajao, the capital town, Catarman, Sagay, Guinsiliban, and Mahinog.

Planning for your next trip? Here are some things that you can do in the island born of fire.

1. Climb Mt. Hibok-hibok
With an elevation of 1,300 meters above sea level, this famous volcano is not new to hikers. You can plan for a hike in just a day or camp near its summit and enjoy the overlooking view of the island at night. But make sure that you hire a guide when you go there as the forest is dense and the trails are confusing (sometimes). Contact Jerlald Rabile through his Facebook account: https://m.facebook.com/jerald.rabile.98 to guide you.

2. Eat at Northern Lights
Platter servings good for 4-5 persons are best when you travel as a group. Their homemeade ice cream is highly recommendable for those who love ice cream for Php 20.00 per scoop. At one scoop, your tummy is already full. Their lomi soup is delicious too.

3. Take a dip in Ardent Hot Spring
Although the temperature is warm, the hot spring is a great aid to lessen body and muscle pains. It is best to soak and stay longer in the warm water after a long and tiring Hibok-hibok hike.

4. Swim in the cold flowing waters of Tuasan and Katibawasan Falls
Katibawasan Falls is the highest falls in Camiguin. Its beautiful flowing water cascades to a pool surrounded by rocks and flows through a little creek. Tuasan Falls is not so high but it has the strongest current that you can really feel even before you reach the area. The abundant water of the falls entices one to take a quick dip in its cold flowing water.

5. Take photos at Tongatok Cliff
The view of the old Mount Vulcan and Bohol Sea can be clearly seen from Tongatok Cliff. It is situated just right along the highway and is known to be a nice spot for picture taking where you can have both Mount Vulcan and Bohol Sea as your background. No entrance fees here, it is totally free.

6. Go uphill the Walkway to the Stations of the Cross
The Wallkway, as locals call it, is famous for its 14 stations where devotees climb and celebrate the Holy Week. If you opt not to be disturbed by a crowd of people, do not go there in summer. The best time to climb and reach the last station is early in the morning. You can walk for an hour going uphill and less than an hour going downhill. One can enjoy the scenery on top, overlooking the Bohol Sea and the famous cross landmark at the Sunken Cemetery. An early morning walk at the walkway can make you sweat more and feel the morning breeze when you reach the top.

7. Dive and take panoramic photos at the Sunken Cemetery
The big cross at the Sunken Cemetery serves as a landmark of the sunken cemetery which was affected by a volcanic eruption. You can dive and snorkel as locals say these activities can be done there but you just have to pay for a fee. Boatmen can also take beautiful panoramic pictures with many poses and shots while you just wait for a great result. Boat fee is 100 pesos for 4 people. Sunset watching is also possible at the Sunken Cemetery.

8. Be refreshed in the cold waters of Bura Soda Spring and Sto. Niño Cold Spring
As its name says, Sto. Niño Cold Spring is literally cold. There is also a fish spa where you can have your feet kissed by a school of fish as you relax and unwind by the pool. In addition, Bura Soda Spring is a place where flowing water can be drunk. It is a little deep so if you are not good at swimming, you can stay at the children's pool instead. In Bura Soda Spring, you can also ask the restaurant crew to cook a dish for you at lunch. Price is affordable especially for a group.

9. Ride a boat and take scenic photos at the famous White Island
You cannot say you have been to Camiguin Island if you have not been to its popular White Island. The sandbar represents the island's sea gem which is actually a favorite picture-perfect destination for tourists. Mt. Hibok-hibok and its surrounding mountains can be clearly seen from White Island and is a beautiful background for picture taking. Sometimes, the sandbar gets smaller because of the high tide. Boat fee is 450 good for people and a 50.00 environmental fee. If your hostel provides a boat ride, then you can negotiate with them for faster transactions.

10. Buy souvenirs in Pasalubong sa Camiguin and Vjandep
One cannot go home without something to bring for their loved ones. The famous Pastel of Vjandep is delicious enough for you to be enthralled and feel delighted because of its savory taste. Another product of the island is the tart which comes from different flavors. Both the stores sell various souvenirs including T-shirts, bracelets, anklets, and other stuff designed and inspired by the well-known lanzones in the island of Camiguin.

There are other things and places you can do there like island hopping to Mantigue Island, flying on a zipline at the Tanguines Lagoon, sightseeing in the Camiguin landmark, or enjoying the sea breeze in the mangroves at Katunggan Park. In fact, you can tour the island in just one day. You can opt to have a tour by yourself or hire a tour guide. Tour guides can drive you all throughout the island and take your photos as you enjoy the spots. If you are a solo traveler, you can rent a motorbike. If you are with a group, you can rent a multicab, a jeepney or a van. In October, you can witness the Lanzones festival where you can see flamboyant costumes of the street dancers.

Where to stay in Camiguin Island?

Camiguin White Island Resort
Yumbing, Mambajao, Camiguin
Contact Person: Mai-mai
Contact Number: 09177947896

Paguia's Cottages
Yumbing, Mambajao, Camiguin
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paguiasownpage/

Pabua's Cottages
Yumbing, Mambajao, Camiguin
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ToursandCottagesinCamiguinIsland/
Contact Person: Rochelle Pabua
Contact Number: 09177023010

Havendwell Beach Resort
Contact number: 09773313371
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/havendwellbeachresort/

Bintana sa Paraiso
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bspbinunsaran/
Website: https://bintanasaparaiso.com
Contact Number: 09970683570

For more booking and tour inquiries, contact MR. JUNREY P. TUTOR, an island tour guide. See details below:

Contact number: 09757206450
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/junrey7tutor
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/junrey7tutor5/