ULTIMATE CAMIGUIN TRAVEL GUIDE: Everything You Need To Know

Planning a trip to Camiguin Island?

After spending one week on this volcanic island, I can confidently say it’s one of the most underrated destinations in the Philippines.

In this Camiguin Travel Guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make your trip unforgettable.

Known as the Island Born of Fire, Camiguin is home to majestic volcanos, steaming hot springs, pristine waterfalls, black-sand beaches, and vibrant marine life – all without the crowds.

The island’s slow pace, friendly locals, and commitment to eco-tourism make it a refreshing destination to visit in the Philippines.

In this DIY Camiguin Travel Guide, I’ll cover everything you need to plan your trip – the best things to do, how to get there, where to stay, plus a suggested Camiguin itinerary and budget breakdown.

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Where is Camiguin Island located?

Camiguin is a stunning volcanic island located off the northern coast of Mindanao, in the Bohol Sea.

It is the second-smallest island in the Philippines.

You can reach Camiguin from either Mindanao in the south or from Bohol/Cebu in the north.

If you are traveling to both Bohol and Camiguin on your Philippines itinerary, the easiest way to reach Camiguin Island is from Bohol – this is what I did.

Camiguin tourist spots map

First up on this Camiguin Travel Guide are the best Camiguin tourist spots.

The map below shows all the best things to do on the island. There are three main areas I will explore in this guide –

• Mambajao (tourist hub & best base)
• Catamaran
• Mahinog

Things to do in Camiguin

Despite its small size, Camiguin is packed with unique things to do. Whether you’re an adventure lover, a beach bum, or a history fanatic, there’s something here for you.

From hiking volcanos, relaxing in hot springs, and exploring hidden waterfalls, to snorkeling vibrant coral reefs on paradiscial white-sand islands, Camiguin’s natural beauty is awe-inspiring.

Whether you plan on staying for a few months or simply want to know what to do in Camiguin for 3 days, these are the top spots to add to your itinerary.

If you prefer to skip straight to my suggested Camiguin itinerary, click here

Katibawasan Falls

Nestled within Camiguin’s lush, mountainous landscape, Katibawasan Falls is the island’s tallest waterfall, plunging an impressive 250 ft.

Conveniently located in the tourist hub Mambajao, Katibawasan Falls is easily accessible yet feels like a hidden paradise.

Surrounded by dense green jungle, the tall but narrow cascade is a real sight to behold and one of the best things to do in Camiguin.

Take a refreshing dip in the cool swimming hole, soak in the serenity of the rainforest, or bring along some snacks for a peaceful picnic in this stunning setting.

Full Post: Katibawasan Falls Camiguin: EVERYTHING You Need To Know

Mantigue Island

Just 20 minutes off Camiguin’s eastern coast, Mantigue Island is a pristine Maldives-esque island and eco-tourism haven.

This protected marine sanctuary is one of the best snorkeling and diving sites in Camiguin, boasting a lush mini forest, powdery white sand, and crystal-clear turquoise waters.

As if that wasn’t enough, Camiguin Island and its dominant volcanos provide a breathtaking backdrop.

However, the real beauty lies beneath the surface, with some of the most vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life I have ever seen.

Mantigue Island is a real hidden gem and does not attract as many people as other popular Camiguin tourist spots.

Full Post: Mantigue Island Nature Park Camiguin: The COMPLETE Guide

Walkway to the Old Volcano (Mt. Vulcan)

Any Camiguin Travel Guide would be incomplete without a mention of the island’s ever-present volcanos.

The Walkway to the Old Volcano is an 8-kilometer trail up Mt. Vulcan, featuring 14 human-sized Stations of the Cross showing Jesus Christ’s journey to crucifixion.

A significant religious pilgrimage site for Roman Catholics, the trail comes alive during Holy Week – I witnessed this firsthand as I visited over Easter.

Beyond its religious significance, the breathtaking panoramic views from the summit make this one of the best things to do in Camiguin for all travelers.

You can even catch a glimpse of the iconic cross signaling the Sunken Cemetery in the sea from the top.

As with most destinations in the Philippines, the WiFi in Camiguin can be a little patchy and unreliable. For a stress-free trip, I would suggest getting a data plan with an Airalo eSIM.

Tongatok Cliff Viewpoint / Chan Lookout

Tongatok Cliff Viewpoint is one of the best tourist spots in Camiguin if you’re hoping to catch a breathtaking sunset.

Perched on the side of the road near Mambajao, this hidden gem offers unobstructed views of the ocean and mountains.

Tip: search ‘Chan Lookout Point’ on Google Maps for the location

As you arrive, you’ll be left in awe of the coconut-fringed Tongatok Cove, crashing waves, and towering mountains in the background.

Swing by Tongatok Cliff Resort next door for a drink while you watch the sun go down – this is also one of the best places to stay in Camiguin.

If you’re a lover of sunsets and post-card views, this is a must-visit on any Camiguin itinerary.

Sunken Cemetery

Probably one of the most iconic and popular Camiguin tourist spots, you cannot miss a trip to the Sunken Cemetery off the western coast.

In 1871, Mount Hibok Hibok, one of Camiguin’s most active volcanos, erupted for 4 years. This submerged part of a town—including its cemetery—beneath the waves.

Today, a large cross stands in memory of the lives lost.

The Sunken Cemetery is therefore a poignant testament to the island’s rich history. As well as tombstones and underwater crosses, the area is home to abundant marine life and vibrant coral reefs.

Whether you snorkel among the eerie underwater tombstones or admire the view from above, the Sunken Cemetery offers a fascinating glimpse into Camiguin’s past.

White Island

White Island, a stunning sandbar off Mambajao’s northern coast, offers powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters with a dramatic backdrop of Camiguin’s mountains.

Full Post: White Island Camiguin: The ULTIMATE Guide

As one of the island’s most popular spots, it can get busy, and being a sandbar, there’s little shade—so I recommend visiting in the morning or late afternoon for a more peaceful experience.

The main activities here are snorkeling in the turquoise waters, basking in the sunlight, and catching a tan.

Tuasan Falls

Nestled in the mountains of Catamaran, visiting Tuasan Falls is another one of the best things to do in Camiguin.

Although not as tall as the popular Katibawasan Falls, this hidden gem is surrounded by lush vegetation, offering a serene, untouched atmosphere.

There are two swimming holes – one larger where the water plunges powerfully, and a smaller one where the water cascades down.

With minimal development in the area, Tuasan Falls preserves its raw, natural beauty. The clear waters are ideal for a refreshing dip and a great Camiguin tourist spot for nature lovers.

Have you got your Quick Dry Microfiber Towel?

Ardent Hot Spring

Ardent Hot Spring, located at the foot of Mt. Hibok Hibok, is one of Camiguin’s top relaxation spots.

The crystal-clear waters, heated naturally to around 40°C, offer the perfect way to unwind after your action-packed Camiguin itinerary.

Whilst the thermal waters are natural, the facilities are designed for a spa-like experience. There are 4 different pools set amidst lush greenery and picnic areas.

The sulfur-rich waters are believed to have therapeutic benefits, especially for muscle aches and body pain.

Tip: visit in the evening when the heat is more manageable – this is what I did to relax after an adventurous day exploring

Agohay Beach

Aggohay Beach, located on the northern coast of Mambajao, is a captivating black-sand beach that offers a glimpse into Camiguin’s volcanic past.

This working fisherman’s beach, lined with colorful boats, isn’t your typical tourist destination, making it a more authentic and less crowded spot to observe local life.

Furthermore, compared to the powdery white sands of the nearby islets, I would not recommend it for sunbathing.

However, with unobstructed views of nearby White Island and unique sand, this Camiguin beach has charm.

The water is deep enough for a paddle and it is one of the best Camiguin tourist spots for sunset.

Sto. Nino Cold Spring

The Santo Niño Cold Spring is a must-visit on any Camiguin itinerary.

This man-made swimming pool, fed by natural spring water from the nearby Mt. Mambajao, is the perfect place to cool off and rejuvenate after a busy day of sightseeing.

The spring’s vibrant turquoise waters are inviting and deep in some areas, making it perfect for swimming and exploring the interesting rocks beneath.

There’s also a mini spring for kids, making it a great family-friendly destination. With benches, cottages, and a restaurant, it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Camiguin.

Bike around the island

Biking around the island is another one of the best things to do in Camiguin.

As the second smallest island in the Philippines, you can complete the loop in about 2 hours.

This scenic ride allows you to experience the island’s charm and provides a glimpse into local life, with views of the turquoise ocean and the surrounding mountains.

The circumferential road takes you past most of Camiguin’s main attractions and is an excellent way to get off the beaten path and appreciate the beauty of the island.

Old Spanish Church Ruins

Also known as Guiob Church, the Old Spanish Church Ruins is another one of the last remnants from the volcanic destruction of 1871.

Built in the 16th century, this church and its sturdy coral walls was one of the few structures to survive the volcanic eruption

Interestingly, these are the oldest ruins in the country. They act as a powerful testament to the country’s colonial past and demonstrate the endurance of religion throughout time.

For history enthusiasts, this landmark is a must-visit and offers a unique glimpse into the island’s past.

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Conquer Mount Hibok Hibok

For adventure seekers and hiking enthusiasts, climbing Mount Hibok Hibok is a must on your Camiguin itinerary.

As the most active volcano in the Philippines, last erupting in 1951, this challenging trek offers an exciting test for thrill-seekers.

Due to its active status, you’ll need a hiking permit and a local guide from the DENR Office in Mambajao.

The hike to the summit takes about 5 hours. Before reaching the summit, there is a shallow mossy lake created in the crater from the previous eruption.

If you are lucky with the weather, the views from the top are absolutely breathtaking, offering a bird’s-eye view of Camiguin’s famous landmarks.

The Giant Clam Sanctuary does not appear in this Camiguin Travel Guide. As of February 2025, it is still closed to visitors

Where to stay in Camiguin

Any Camiguin Travel Guide would be incomplete without accommodation.

When visiting Camiguin, the majority of travelers tend to stay in the tourist hub Mambajao.

From here, you will be perfectly located near all of the main Camiguin tourist sports.

All of the accommodations listed will be happy to help you with tours, activities, or scooter rental. Here are the best places to stay in Camiguin for every type of budget –

Bintana Sa Paraiso | Luxury Camiguin Accommodation

Located in Mambajao at the foot of Mt. Hibok Hibok, Bintana Sa Paraiso is perfect for those looking for a luxury getaway and draw-dropping views.

Each room is a total oasis of tranquility with a balcony area and a private infinity pool overlooking the sea.

The modern and spacious rooms also come with a 24-hour personal butler service, as well as a mini-fridge and TV.

This resort also offers meditation, yoga, and massage services, as well as a delicious restaurant elevated above the beach.

Wake up in paradise and enjoy your complimentary breakfast with one of the most extraordinary views.

They also have a mountain resort nestled amongst the lush jungle in the island’s center if this suits you better.

Prices start from about $100 per night.

Tongatok Cliff Resort | Medium-budget accommodation in Camiguin

Nestled perfectly on the cliff’s edge, this Camiguin accommodation offers breathtaking panoramic views of the sea and nearby mountains.

The rooms at the Tongatok Cliff Resort have a private terrace, some with hammocks, perfect for relaxation. Each room comes equipped with a TV, a fridge, and a tea/coffee maker.

The resort also boasts its own private beach area, a locally sourced restaurant, and a bar.

Located to the west of Mambajao, you are also perfectly located for all the main attractions.

Prices start from about $60 per night.

Borbon’s Treehouse | Budget Camiguin accommodation

These cozy bamboo beachfront cottages are located in the heart of Mambajao not far from the airport, but feel worlds away from the hustle and bustle.

These beautiful private cottages have a rustic feel, spacious rooms, and a private balcony area – this is where I stayed and I could not recommend it more.

With its own black sand private beach, you are just steps away from the ocean. You can enjoy sunrise and sunset each day in this slice of tropical paradise.

The hosts are very accommodating and offer a shared kitchen fully equipped with everything you need.

The owners are digital nomads, so all of the cottages boast super-fast wifi. Perfect for those who work from home.

Prices start at about $27.00 per night.

Camiguin tour packages

Next on this Camiguin Travel Guide are the very best tour packages and day trips.

You can opt for a multi-day tour package which comes with all activities and accommodation included.

This is a great option for travelers who want to have everything organized in advance for a totally stress-free trip.

Alternatively, you can also opt for single-day tour packages that cover the main Camiguin tourist spots. This option is great for travelers who want a little more flexibility.

How to get to Camiguin

Next in this Camiguin Travel Guide, I will cover exactly how to get there.

Whilst Camiguin can seem a little out of the way, reaching the island is fairly straightforward if you follow the steps below.

Camiguin can be reached from either Mindanao in the south or from Bohol/Cebu in the north.

There are 3 main entry points –

• Camiguin Airport (by flight)
• Balbagon Port in Mambajao (from Cebu or Bohol)
• Benoni Port on the eastern coast (from Mindanao)

For full details from all popular destinations: How To Get To Camiguin: A Step-By-Step Guide

From Manila

Sunlight Air is currently the only airline that offers direct flights from Manila to Camiguin. There are two per week at the following times –

• Thursday @ 10:00 AM
• Sunday @ 10:00 AM

This would be the quickest and easiest way to reach Camiguin Island from Manila.

• Journey time: 2 hours
• Price: $50 – $120

However, the most common option is to fly from Manila to Camiguin with a change in Cebu. There are many flights via Cebu every day with Cebu Pacific.

• Journey time: 3 – 17 hours (depending on transfer time in Cebu)
• Price: $50 – $150

From Cebu

By flight

Flying from Cebu to Camiguin is the easiest and quickest way to reach the island.

There is one direct flight flight per day at 2:10 PM with Cebu Pacific.

• Journey time: 1 hour
• Price: roughly $35

Full Post: How To Get To Camiguin Island: A Step-By-Step Guide

By ferry

If you choose to take a ferry from Cebu to Camiguin, you will have to travel via Bohol – there are no direct ferries.

I would highly recommend spending some time in Bohol and then heading to Camiguin after, to break the journey up.

Step 1: Cebu to Tagbilaran Port in Bohol

First, you will have to take an Ocean Jet ferry from Cebu to Tagbilaran in Bohol.

• Frequency: every hour
• Journey time: 2 hours
• Price: $17 (book online here)

Step 2: Bus from Tagbilaran Port to Jagna Port

The ferry from Bohol to Camiguin does not depart from Tagbilaran Port but from Jagna Port instead.

You will have to take a bus from the Dao Integrated Bus Terminal bound for Jagna to reach it – this is operated by Ceres Bus.

• Frequency: all-day
• Journey time: 2 hours
• Price: 100 PHP ($1.79)

Step 3: Ferry from Jagna Port to Camiguin

You will then have to take a ferry from Jagna Port to Balbagon Port in Camiguin.

The Bohol to Camiguin ferry schedule is at 1:00 PM on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.

• Journey time: 4 hours
• Price: $13

This journey cannot be booked online in advance and has to be booked at the port in Jagna.

From Cagayan de Oro

Getting to Camiguin from Cagayan de Oro will involve taking one bus and one ferry.

Both the Cagayan de Oro to Camiguin ferry and bus schedules are super regular and do not need to be booked in advance.

In Cagayan de Oro, you will have to take the bus from the Agora Bus Terminal heading to the Balingoan Bus Terminal.

• Frequency: every 20 minutes
• Journey time: 2 hours
• Price: 160 PHP ($3)

Once you have reached Balingoan Port, you can take the ferry across to Camiguin.

• Frequency: every 15 minutes
• Journey time: 45 minutes
• Price: 360 PHP ($6.50)

How to get around Camiguin

For any Camiguin Travel Guide, it is necessary to know how to get around.

I would recommend a scooter as the best way to get around Camiguin Island, and the Philippines in general.

The roads are very well-maintained and you can reach all of the main Camiguin tourist spots by following the circumferential road around the island.

We hired our scooter from our accommodation for 350 PHP ($6) a day. For further details, you can check it out here.

This seems to be the standard price in Camiguin. There are many places where you can find scooter rentals in Mambajao, but feel free to ask your accommodation too.

The fuel in Camiguin is slightly pricier than on other islands, at about 90 PHP ($1.60) per liter.

The public transport in Camiguin isn’t great, so if you do not opt for a scooter, then I would recommend taking a tricycle.

Tricycles can be good for short journeys but you can hire a personal driver for the whole day for about 1000 PHP ($18).

There are also jeepneys which are the most reasonable way of getting around the island, although not very reliable. You can find the jeepney departure point in Mambajao here.

Suggested Camiguin Itinerary

Whilst you could opt for organized tours, I would always recommend a Camiguin DIY itinerary.

Camiguin is a very small island, so you can visit most of the main highlights in a few days.

However, if you benefit from time, spending a week in Camiguin would be ideal. This is a laidback island with some beautiful accommodations, so it is the perfect escape to relax and unwind.

Below, I will detail the perfect Camiguin DIY itinerary for 3 days.

Most ferries and flights arrive at Camiguin after 3:00 PM.

I would therefore use this first evening to settle in, get your bearings, and organise a scooter rental if needed. The itinerary will start the following day.

Camiguin Itinerary – Day 1

For the first day of your Camiguin itinerary, we will be exploring the area of Mambajao.

Morning

• Head to White Island as early as possible – before it gets too hot & crowded
• Grab breakfast in Mambajao after

Afternoon

• After breakfast, head to Katibawasan Falls for a refreshing dip
• For lunch, either bring food for a picnic or head to Blackmountain Cafe after (amazing views & coffee)
• After, check out Agohay Beach for golden hour & sunset

Evening

• Visit Ardent Hot Springs for an evening of relaxation
• Grab dinner in Mambajao

Camiguin Itinerary – Day 2

On the second day of your Camiguin itinerary, we will explore the island’s western side and the Catamaran area.

Morning

• Grab some breakfast and head to the Walkway to the Old Volcano for panoramic views of the island – the earlier the better as it can get very humid
• After, go snorkeling in the Sunken Cemetery (optional)

Afternoon

• Get some lunch and then explore the Old Spanish Church ruins
• After, take a refreshing dip in the Santo Nino Cold Spring

Evening

• On your drive back, stop off at Tongatok Cliff Viewpoint for sunset
• Grab a drink or some dinner at the Tongatok Cliff Resort next door

Camiguin Itinerary – Day 3

On the final day of your Camiguin itinerary, we will be heading to Mahinog and the eastern side of the island.

Today is all about taking things a little slower and enjoying the beauty of the island.

Morning

• Slow lazy morning & grab some breakfast
• Head to Mantigue Island

Afternoon

• Enjoy snorkeling & sunbathing at Mantigue Island – you can stay up to 3 hours

Evening

• If your accommodation offers massages or spa treatments, take advantage of this
• If you didn’t visit Ardent Hot Springs before, tonight would be a great time to do it
• Enjoy a delicious dinner and prepare for departure the next day

Example Camiguin Budget

Important in any Camiguin Travel Guide is an estimated budget.

If you’re wondering how much to budget for a Camiguin trip, this is completely dependent on the type of traveler you are.

We stayed in reasonably-priced accommodation, cooked our own food instead of eating out, and did all of our tours DIY.

Our budget was about $30 per day, including accommodation, tours, scooter rental, and groceries.

For the average traveler, I would recommend a Camiguin budget between $30 – $50 per day.

Example daily expenses

• Accommodation – 700 – 5600 PHP ($12 – $100)
• Scooter Rental – 350 PHP ($6)
• Mantigue Island Trip (boat, entrance fee, snorkel fee) – 625 PHP ($11)
• Lunch – 300 PHP ($5)
• Katibawasan Falls Entrance – 80 PHP ($1.40)
• Coffee – 120 PHP ($2)
• Ardent Hot Spring Entrance – 50 PHP ($0.90)
• White Island (boat, entrance fee) – 625 PHP ($11)

FAQs

When is the best time to visit Camiguin?

The best time to visit Camiguin coincides with the best time to visit the Philippines in general.

This would be in the dry season, from March – October. However, in general, Camiguin boasts a tropical climate and is generally hot all year round. We visited in March and had great weather.

I would recommend visiting for the annual Lazones Festival in October, a sweet tropical fruit Camiguin is famed for.

How many days do you need in Camiguin?

Camiguin is a very small island and you can visit most of the main tourist spots in a couple of days.

I would recommend 3 days in Camiguin to visit all of the highlights.

However, if you are hoping to take advantage of this laid-back island to relax and unwind, then 5 – 7 days would be ideal.

Is Camiguin Island worth visiting?

A small but mighty island in the Philippines, Camiguin is most definitely worth visiting.

Camiguin is a unique island and boasts many natural wonders unparalleled in the Philippines. If you’re looking for a change of scenery and a true topical island feel, then Camiguin is the place for you.

The island hasn’t been overwhelmed by tourism and it remains a more off-the-beaten-path spot. This means the island maintains its slower pace of life and rustic charm.

What is Camiguin known for?

Camiguin is known as Isla del Fuego, for its seven volcanos that dominate the surface.

The seven volcanos create a unique landscape of towering waterfalls, black-sand beaches, and steaming hot springs.

These volcanos are totally omnipresent and many of the most popular tourist spots act as a testament to the island’s volcanic past.

What are the requirements for visiting Camiguin?

If you are visiting Camiguin Island either as a Filipino tourist or international tourist, you will need a Clean Camiguin QR Code.

Visitors can fill out the form before arrival by following this link here.

Is Camiguin safe for tourists?

Camiguin is a generally safe destination to visit and has one of the lowest crime rates in the whole of the Philippines. You will also find some of the friendliest and most welcoming locals.

Camiguin Travel Guide: Final Thoughts

Camiguin may be one of the smallest islands, but its rich history, stunning landscapes, and diverse natural wonders make it one of the best destinations in the Philippines.

Its charm lies in its authenticity—untouched by mass tourism but still entirely accessible.

The combination of adventure, relaxation, and cultural heritage makes this the perfect tropical getaway.

If you have visited Camiguin, I would love to hear about your experience – reach out to me on Instagram or Pinterest and let me know how it was!

Planning your Philippines trip?

With so many amazing islands to explore, how do you decide where to visit? For inspiration, itinerary ideas, and dream destinations, check out the following –

1-Month Philippines Itinerary – the ideal backpacking route exploring popular destinations & off-the-beaten-path spots

Top 10 Best Places To Visit in the Philippines – your ultimate guide to the best destinations to suit every type of traveler