Camiguin Island
Camiguin
A scenic island province renowned for its seven volcanoes, hot springs, and white-sand beaches, offering excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. Camiguin Island features unique attractions like Sunken Cemetery and Old Church ruins.
Things to do
- Sunken Cemetery Dive — Explore an underwater cemetery with submerged crosses and tombs in shallow waters, a unique and poignant diving experience.
- Mount Hibok-Hibok Trek — Hike one of Camiguin's seven volcanoes to witness panoramic views of the island and surrounding waters from its crater rim.
- Ardent Hot Springs — Soak in naturally heated geothermal pools surrounded by lush vegetation and experience the therapeutic sulfurous waters.
- White Island Snorkeling — Visit a sandbar island with crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and spotting tropical fish and coral gardens.
- Old Church Ruins Exploration — Discover the remnants of a 17th-century church buried by volcanic ash, now an evocative historical and archaeological site.
- Mantigue Island Day Trip — Take a boat to this marine sanctuary for pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life ideal for diving and snorkeling.
- Bonbon Beach Visit — Relax on a picturesque white-sand beach with shallow, clear waters and views of nearby islands and volcanic landscapes.
Food to try
- Lomi — A comforting egg-based noodle soup with local vegetables and meat, widely served as a breakfast staple throughout Camiguin.
- Tinutoy — A Camiguin specialty of rice flour dumplings filled with brown sugar and coconut, steamed and wrapped in banana leaves.
- Fresh Tuna and Grouper — Grilled or steamed local catches prepared simply with vinegar and spices, showcasing the island's abundant seafood harvest.
- Samalamig — A traditional refreshing drink made with brown sugar, vanilla, and ground rice or corn served over shaved ice on hot days.
- Camiguin White Lanzones — A locally-grown citrus fruit with a thin skin and sweet-tart flesh, available seasonally and often eaten fresh or made into preserves.
Local customs & good to know
- Respectful Cemetery Behavior — The Sunken Cemetery holds spiritual significance for locals; approach with reverence and avoid disruptive behavior when diving or visiting.
- Fiesta Season Participation — Camiguin celebrates its Lanzones Festival in October with local parades and festivities; joining respectfully offers insight into community values.
- Local Guides Enhance Experience — Hiring local guides for hikes and diving supports the community and provides authentic knowledge about volcanic geology and island history.
- Simple Filipino Hospitality — Locals practice warm, direct hospitality; a greeting in Filipino (Tagalog) and genuine interest in conversation are appreciated gestures.
Nearby
- Agoho Beach — 5 km
- Cagayan de Oro City — 81 km
- Bukidnon Highlands (Davao & Soccsksargen) — 86 km
- Bohol (Central Visayas) — 86 km