When We’re Finally Free from Quarantine, Let’s Go Local and Come Again to Camiguin
NO WORDS…
I have no words for everything that Covid-19 messed up, including postponement of travel plans. It’s been nearly three months since the implementation of nationwide quarantine and it can’t be denied that this pandemic is taking a huge toll on the tourism industry and the economy as a whole. In spite of the fact that most of us are confined to our homes right now to help flatten the curve, we are all finding ways to stay positive and inspired, even planning for future trips.
No one knows when will Covid-19 outbreak subside. But when this quarantine is lifted and leisure travel is allowed, I want to go local and spend vacation in the Philippines. I would love to fly via domestic routes, explore PH tourist destinations, eat local cuisines, support homegrown products and ultimately help our country’s tourism back on its feet.
Exploring A Prolific Paradise In Mindanao
If there’s one destination in the Philippines that I’d like to visit again, it would be none other than Camiguin Island. I can’t fully describe how beautiful Camiguin truly is but I totally agree to what visitors claim that Camiguin Island is a prolific paradise in Mindanao where vacation goals are made of. In fact, it’s the only island province in the Philippines that I visited more than five times and I still can’t find the right words to express the feeling of taking in the grandeur of what Camiguin exudes every single moment. Best of all, there aren’t too many tourists here to get in your way!
How To Get To Camiguin
Camiguin is the second-smallest province in the country in both population and land area after Batanes. Geographically part of the Northern Mindanao Region, it is located in the Bohol Sea, about 10 kilometres (6.2 mi) off the northern coast of Mindanao. It is accessible by boat via Balingoan Port in Misamis Oriental, especially when you are from Butuan or Cagayan de Oro. However, the fastest and convenient way (also cheaper) is by taking a flight to Camiguin.
Cebu Pacific Air, the country’s leading low cost carrier, flies to Camiguin daily from Cebu and Manila. Just less than an hour plane-ride away from these major Cebu Pacific hubs, the natural beauty of this so-called “Island Born of Fire” awaits every holidaymakers around the country. Low fares to Camiguin are available all-year round, I even scored less than Php 1,000 round trip airfare Cebu to Camiguin.
For promo fares tips, read here: PISO FARE to Camiguin
Since the beginning of Covid-19 outbreak, Cebu Pacific team have been working round-the-clock in redefining the new normal air travel experience by introducing the contactless flight. Cebu Pacific finally resumed operations last June 3, 2020 and implemented strict safety measures to ensure the health and well-being of every Juan is given paramount considerations. So when you’re ready to fly, rest assured Cebu Pacific has everyone’s safety as the topmost priority.
Read more about Contactless Flights Guidelines here: Cebu Pacific Contactless Flights
What To Do In Camiguin
Whether you’re a first timer in Camiguin or a returnee, you will definitely never run out of things to do, foods to try and tourist spots to visit in Camiguin. Here’s a rundown of what the natural beauty of Camiguin has to offer for every Juan to experience or rediscover:
1.) Loaf in the powdery white sandbar of White Island
White Island is an uninhabited speck of sun-bleached sandbar floating on the wide Bohol Sea and framed by Mt. Hibok-Hibok on the background. It is probably the famous natural destination in Camiguin that is always included in the itinerary. Bonus, it is just a 5-minute boat ride off the northern shore of Mambajao, the provincial capital of Camiguin.
2.) Dive into the depths of a Giant Clam Sanctuary
Giant clams, or locally known as taklobo, and other best-preserved deep-sea creatures including corals, can be found in the waters just off the Kabila Giant Clam Conservation and Ocean Nursery in barangay Cantaan. This marine sanctuary homes more than 2, 600 clams including the giant clams that await adventurous souls up close underwater.
3.) Cool off in various natural springs
Cold, hot or soda spring? In Camiguin, it’s 3-in-1! A number of natural springs abound the island of Camiguin making it a perfect destination for spring hopping. You can choose from Sto. Nino Cold Spring, Macao Cold Spring, Bura Soda Spring or Ardent Hot Spring for a much-needed mineral bath day or night.
4.) Splash some turquoise waters around Mantigue Island
Also known as Magsaysay, Mantigue Island is a four-hectare round-shape islet that is abundant with mangroves and vegetation. Its exotic blue waters are rich in marine life making it a perfect spot for scuba diving and snorkeling. Clearly visible from Benoni Port, this small but terrific island is just a 20-minute boat ride off the coast of barangay San Roque.
5.) Float like there’s no tomorrow in Katibawasan Falls
Experience nature at its best when you visit the highest cascade of Camiguin Island ~ Katibawasan Falls. This famous cascade is certainly a must-visit destination for every tourist wherein floating is synonymous with relaxation. From a bird’s eye view, it looks like a cigarette stick and it looks otherworldly amazing!
6.) Brave hiking an active volcano, Mt. Hibok-hibok
When you go on an adventure, how far will you go to test your limits? I leave that to you but if I were to answer this question, my reply would be to climb an active volcano. In Camiguin, one can chase summit at Mt. Hibok-hibok, a stratovolcano that is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire. Be on the lookout for some of its endemic flora and fauna while hiking and ultimately marvel at its delightful crater.
7.) Marvel at the stunning sunset at Sunken Cemetery
Beautiful Disaster as I described this beauty, Sunken Cemetery’s origin is even more compelling to both visitors and locals alike. As the name suggests, it was once a cemetery and the town it served sank beneath the sea during the volcanic eruption of Mt. Vulcan. With its uniqueness, one can marvel at the fiery sunset at the backdrop of the big white cross that is seemingly floating in the middle of the sea.
8.) Take an “edging” selfie at Tongatok Cliff
Also known as Chan Lookout Point, I find this spot totally underrated by many tourists. First-time visitors in Camiguin will probably skip Tongatok Cliff in their itinerary because it is not as popular as some destinations listed above but when you find yourself needing for a rest stop, just park alongside the cliff, take a selfie or two ’cause the magical scenery especially during the golden hour won’t disappoint. And oh, it’s absolutely free!
9.) Visit the rustic Old Volcano Walkway and Gui-ob Church Ruins
Whether or not you are a religious devotee, you’ll surely appreciate the charming beauty of both Old Volcano Walkway and Old Guiob Church Ruins in barangay Catarman. While one can experience a solemn walk by trailing the Stations of the Cross at the Old Volcano Walkway, the Old Guiob Church Ruins brings a rustic vibe with its Old Spanish dilapidated structures and massive remains of a disastrous past.
10.) Take in the verdant setting of Tuasan Falls
Tuasan Falls used to be a hidden gem, about 2 kilometers from the main Camiguin highway. With the opening of a new cement road, it’s now more accessible to most travelers who want to explore the heart of the island. The cold waters of this spectacular falls enveloped by a verdant jungle will surely soothe and rejuvenate your tired, aching feet for a fun finish.
Where To Stay In Camiguin
Lanzones Cabana is an awesome place to stay in with family and friends, offering a great experience for someone who needs a tranquil time with nature. Their Cabanas are uniquely designed and splashed with vivid colors making it a “Fun a Place to Stay in Camiguin”. The Superior & Standard Cabana provide the perfect place to rest and recharge after a day of island adventure. Relax in the cozy MoBana (Modern Cabana) fully equipped with the cabana’s class amenities.
The address of Lanzones Cabana is Dal-as, Agoho, Mambajao, 9100 Camiguin. It is approximately an hour away from the seaport area and a few minutes away from the airport. For bookings, you may contact Lanzones Cabana via mobile # 0916 526 9663
3D2N Camiguin Trip (Sample Itinerary and Budget)
- Day 1 – Fly to Camiguin via Cebu Pacific / Check-in Lanzones Cabana
- Day 2 – Camiguin Island Tour (hire a tour guide/driver with multicab)
- Day 3 – Mantigue Island / Fly back to place of origin via Cebu Pacific
Budget for the whole trip is not more than Php 5,000 each person (could be lesser depending on the headcount in your group). Breakdown as follows:
- Airfare – Php 942 (RT airfare booked during Piso Seat Sale Promo)
- Accommodation – Php 900 (Php 1,800 per night – Cabana for 4 pax)
- Tour Package – Php 1,000 (Tour packages varies from Php 500 to Php 2,500 depending on your itinerary per day, plus entrance and environmental fees)
- Food – Php 1,700 for 3 days (could be lower or higher depending on your consumption level or food sharing tactics)
- Miscellaneous – Php 458 (excluding pasalubong)
Come Again To Camiguin
Soon, when it’s already post-quarantine and non-essential travel is no longer restricted, I would love to come again to Camiguin and explore more natural wonders I haven’t visited in my previous trips like Agohay Black Sand Beach, Binangawan Falls, Pamunglo River and probably climb the Tres Marias mountains.
In my next visit, I’m planning to dance to the beat and celebrate with the crowd of Mambajao during the Lanzones Festival some time in October. I’d also like to try the homegrown ice cream brand called La Favorita and of course bring some “pasalubong” like Samuel by Vjandep Pastel, the tastiest custard bun called pastel in the country.
There’s no doubt we’ll make it through this unprecedented health crisis in solidarity, and – when the time is right – you’ll be the first one to get back out there and tick Camiguin off your travel bucket list.
No words……..just making moments happen. #EveryJuanWillFlyAgain soon!
