The Beautiful Island of Camiguin

Located at the northern part of Mindanao, the island-province of Camiguin is a picturesque of a calm and peaceful place that is abundant with natural resources. This charming province in Mindanao is a perfect getaway for those who want to keep in touch with Mother Earth as well as those who want to spend romantic moments with their loved ones. Camiguin is a pear-shaped island that is also well known as the Volcanic Island of the Philippines because it has seven volcanoes, the famous for which is the Mt. Hibok-hibok.  According to experts, Camiguin Island was formed out by these volcanic eruptions and land mass movements. This also explains why the province is rich in natural springs and has very fertile soil.

Meanwhile, Camiguin has a total land area of 238-sq kilometers and is located at the northwestern part of Mindanao in the Philippines.  It is one of the provinces of Northern Mindanao Region or also known as the Philippines’ Region 10.  It is 90 kilometers away from Cagayan De Oro City to its south while it is surrounded by bodies of waters from its other sides – Butuan Bay to its east, Macajalar Bay to the west and the Bohol Sea to its north.

What to do in Camiguin?

Camiguin has many places to offer that do not only speak of Camiguin’s natural richness in water, land and air – but, it also speaks of Camiguin’s beautiful and hospitable locales.

Tuasan Falls. This waterfall at Barrio Mainit is one of the many waterfalls in Camiguin that tourists always visit whenever in Camiguin. Tuasan has a 25-meter high waterfall which serves as the main attraction of the place. People can take a swim under the falls after a short trek. One can have a glimpse of Camiguin’s luscious greeneries and calm streams while trekking towards Tuasan Falls.

Mt. Hibok-hibok. A Camiguin’s famous fixation, Mt. Hibok-Hibok is the only volcano in Camiguin that has remained active.  It is also one of the preferred destinations of the adventurous wherein the volcano’s 1,250 meters slope is a challenge in mountaineering.  When on top, one can have a splendid view of nearby islands Negros, Bohol and Cebu.

White Island.   One of Camiguin’s famous attractions, the White Island is best known for its white sand bar. Aside from basking under the sun, one can also swim around and snorkel at the surrounding seas of White Island. From the White Island, one can have a view of the Mt. Hibok-hibok.

Ardent Hot Spring. This place is good for those who want to dip into a hot spring and relaxes the body as well as the mind. The Ardent Hot Spring in Mambajao is a natural hot pool with 40 degrees centigrade temperature. Surrounding the hot spring are cottages, restaurants and accommodation facilities, which make it ideal for overnight stay. Most of the visitors opt for a night swimming.

Old Volcano.  Another famous attraction in Camiguin is the Old Volcano. In here, one can appreciate Mother Nature’s exemplary work wherein an underwater formation of lava, which rises from more than 80-ft down bottom, can be seen.  Corals are covered with molten rocks as the underwater is also habituated by various kinds of fishes.    

Where to stay in Camiguin?

Because of the increasing number of tourists coming into Camiguin, billeting areas and hotels are cropping in the province. The following are some of Camiguin’s best hotels and beach resorts.

Bahay Bakasyunan. A resort hotel, Bahay Bakasyunan depicts a Filipino-style of accommodation wherein native cottages are surrounding the area. The place has also an outdoor restaurant and bar, heated swimming pool and a conference room for those who are coming into the place for conventions/seminars. Rented motorboats are available in the resort for those who want to explore some of Camiguin’s islets.

Paras Beach Resort. Originally, as a private haven among the Paras family, the Paras Beach Resort takes pride of its native motif that makes the place more relaxing and homey for its urban visitors.  All of its guest rooms have air conditioners with hot-and-cold shower and cable TV.  Cottages and dormitory-type accommodations are also available for guests who come in a larger group.

Camiguin Highland Resort. A luxurious high-end hotel, Camiguin Highland Resort is a three-storey building that houses guest rooms that are complete with air conditioners, cabled TV sets, refrigerators and intercom. The resort’s Mediterranean interior design makes it appealing for guests who do not only prefer comfort but elegance as well. Guests can choose whether they opt for a guest room that has a view of the sea or a room that has a mountain view.

How to go to Camiguin?

Camiguin can be reached through regular sea and air trips from Cebu. Also, for hourly scheduled ferry boats, one has to take Cagayan de Oro City in going to Balingoan, Misamis Oriental. From there, one can ride a ferry boat in going to Camiguin.