Where and how did you spend your Holy Week? Hiking was my first plan but ended up joining a tour in Camiguin Island. I had my mom with me and was so glad we had a quality time together. We joined a public tour via Travel Hugger. They offer different tours, Siargao is great option too but Camiguin is just fine for Holy Week.
It was a long travel going to Camiguin Island and since it was a peak season – Holy Week, Baliongoan Port and Port of Benoni were super busy. A lot of vehicles were already on queue when we arrived. We arrived at dawn, had a quick breakfast near the port and we arrived at Port of Benoni around noon. On our way back, the port is empty. That was Black Saturday. I bet tourist would stay on the island until Easter Sunday.
Places to Visit in Camiguin Island
1. Katibawasan Falls
The first destination we visited was the Katibawasan Falls. Measuring about 250 feet high, the falls is a lovely clear stream of cool waters rushing down to a green rock pool surrounded by ground orchids, wild ferns, trees, and boulders. We stayed here for a while and enjoyed the cold waterfalls.
2. Tuasan Falls
The next destination we had was Tuasan Falls in Catarman. About 2 kilometers from the main Camiguin highway. With the opening of a new cement road, it’s now accessible to most travelers who want mountain climbing. Yes, this is the jump off when hiking at the mountain top just above Tuasan falls. Its still a majestic view and not so high compare with Katibawasan Falls.
3. White Island
White Island is the gem of Camiguin on a beach category. ideal to visit early in the morning. Locally known as Medano Islet or Medan Island, lies just 1.4 km, about 10 minutes, off the coast of Mambajao, the capital and the largest municipality of Camiguin. White Island is the province’s most popular tourist attraction.
4. Mt. Hibok Hibok
From the white Island, you can view the Mt. Hibok Hibok. I wanted to come back at Camiguim to conquer Mt. Hibok Hibok very soon!
5. Old Spanish Church Ruins
The Old Spanish Church Ruins is a historical landmark in Catarman Camiguin and is presently under the care of the local government. One of the structures built in the 16th century and continues to amaze the tourist of its tough and sturdy built and made from coral stones. Often called as Guiob Church Ruins.
6.Sto.Nino Cold Spring
Sto Nino Cold Spring has a pool measuring 25 meters by 40 meters and a dip of 4 ft to 8 ft. The water then flows into a smaller pool built for children. The crystal clear water is about 20 °C which is sprouting from the sandy bottom.
7. The Sunken Cemetery
Another best tourist attraction in Camiguin Island is the Sunken Cemetery. Camiguin Island is located in the Bohol Sea. It is 90 kilometers away from the north coast of Mindanao. Camiguin is defined as the island born of fire in the Philippines because of the past volcanic eruption on the said island that causes series of violent and earthquakes.
8. Mantigue Island
Mantigue Island also known as Magsaysay Island is a small 4.4-hectare island off the coast of Mahinog. Its beauty lies in the white powdery beaches, its amazing coral reefs, and clear blue waters. Considered a marine sanctuary, it has been a frequent spot for diving enthusiasts.
Shopping for Famous Pastel
Don’t forget to try Camiguin’s Pastel Bun. Available by boxes in half and 1 dozen. This is the best pasalubong from Camiguin. Don’t miss this sweet treats!
How To Get There
We joined a public joiners tour from Travel Hugger. It’s an all in package which is great if you travel in a small group. They cover roundtrip transfer from Davao City. Travel Hugger offers different tours, kindly check them on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/travelhugger/
From Cagayan de Oro
- From Laguindingan Airport or from CDO city proper → go to Agora Terminal.
- From Agora Terminal, take a bus or van to Balingoan Port in Misamis Oriental. This takes ~2‑3 hours depending on route and traffic.
- From Balingoan Port, take a ferry to Benoni Port in Camiguin. The ferry crossing takes ~45 minutes to 1 hour. Fares vary from Php200 to Php250.
From Bohol
- There are ferries from Jagna, Bohol to Balbagon Port, Camiguin via Super Shuttle Ferry.
- Travel time is longer than from CDO because of ferry plus getting to Jagna.
From Manila
- Usually involves flying to either Cebu or Cagayan de Oro first, or sometimes a mix of flights and land/sea transport. Then follow the above steps depending on which island you first arrive in.
The Camiguin Tour ended so well, we meet new friends and the organizer Ms. Rolyn was very accommodating. She made sure we can accomplish the itinerary and kept looking for the other guests if it’s time to proceed to the next destination.
After the tour, each of the guests had a ref magnet souvenir from Travel Hugger. Seldom tour agency is like that. Thumbs up for the superb effort Ms. Rolyn. Therefore I highly recommend Travel Hugger to all of you seeking an adventure, best travel service, and an affordable price.’
