ULTIMATE SIQUIJOR TRAVEL GUIDE 2024: Budget & Itinerary

Are you planning a trip to Siquijor? Or are you debating adding the island to your Philippines itinerary?

This Siquijor Travel Guide will tell you everything you need to know, including a suggested budget and itinerary, updated for 2024.

This post may contain affiliate links. This means that I earn a small commission if you purchase through a link on my site. Don’t worry, this is at no extra cost to you.

Siquijor has gained fame as a mystical island and is widely known for its history of witchcraft and healing practices.

However, in recent years, Siquijor has been growing as a popular tourist destination in the Philippines for other reasons too.

Travelers are left captivated by the island’s raw untamed natural beauty and breathtaking scenery, from jungles and waterfalls to coral reefs and beaches.

Not only this, but Siquijor’s rustic laidback vibe, lack of tourists, and commitment to environmental conservation make this a unique yet refreshing island to visit.

If you’re debating adding Siquijor to your Philippines itinerary, then it’s a no-brainer.

Including the top tourist spots, best waterfalls, how to get there, accommodation, where to eat, suggested tours, and a recommended Siquijor itinerary and budget, this Siquijor Travel Guide will leave no stone unturned.

This post will let you know everything you need to know for an unforgettable Siquijor Island trip, updated for 2024.

 

Siquijor tourist spots & things to do

First up in this Siquijor Travel Guide are the main tourist spots. Most are free or pretty inexpensive, so they are perfect for any Siquijor budget.

Siquijor Island is full of untamed natural beauty and is certainly not short of activities and amazing things to do.

This small but mighty island is the ideal destination for nature lovers, environmental enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike.

From pristine waterfalls and white sand beaches to cliff jumping and hidden caves, to epic dive spots and abundant marine life, there is something for everyone.

If that wasn’t enough, Siquijor’s fame as a mystical island of witchcraft means this is the perfect place to visit for history and culture lovers too.

Whether you plan on staying for a few months or simply want to know what to do in Siquijor for a couple of days, these are the top tourist spots to add to any Siquijor itinerary.

Must Read: Top 13 BEST Things To Do in Siquijor

Paliton Beach

Paliton Beach is undoubtedly the most iconic beach in Siquijor.

Soft white sand, calm turquoise waters, and a coconut-fringed shoreline. Paliton Beach is the perfect tropical paradise to catch some rays and have a paddle in the sea.

This Siquijor beach is lined with restaurants, as well as some totally Instagrammable tree swings. Paliton Beach is west coast facing and one of the most spectacular spots to witness the sunset in Siquijor.

Kicking back with friends and enjoying a couple of happy hour cocktails as the sun sets is a must on any Siquijor itinerary.

 

Lazi Church

For those interested in history or religion, visiting Lazi Church is one of the best things to do in Siquijor.

This is the oldest Catholic church in Siquijor and a timeless reminder of the country’s history of Spanish colonialism.

Despite the lapse of time, the historical structure still stands with the original materials of coral and wood. It is therefore an impressive architectural wonder and fascinating remnant of the neoclassical period.

Opposite you will find the San Isidro Covent; the biggest in the Philippines. It includes a small heritage museum upstairs if you are interested in relics of the church.

Salagdoong Beach & Cliff Jump

Salagdoong Beach is one of the most stunning beaches and coral reefs on the island. It is also a must-visit spot on any Siquijor itinerary for those searching for adrenaline-fueled fun.

As well as a beautiful white sand beach, these turquoise waters are also one of the best snorkelling spots in Siquijor, with vibrant colourful coral reefs not far from the shoreline.

For the thrill seekers among us, two cliff jumping spots at heights of 9 and 6 meters. There is also a slide straight into the ocean.

 

Tubod Beach & Marine Sanctuary

Located in San Juan, Tubod Beach is one of the most stunning beaches and natural attractions in Siquijor.

Furthermore, as a protected marine sanctuary, it is one of the best snorkeling spots on the island too. As well as relaxing on the beach, you have the option of exploring the thriving marine life just meters from the shoreline.

Under the surface, you are welcomed by vibrant corals, an array of colorful fish, starfish, giant clams, and even sea turtles if you’re lucky.

With powdery white sand, calm waters, and a coconut-fringed shoreline, Tubod Beach is the perfect spot for post-snorkeling relaxation and witnessing the sunset.

 

Cantabon Cave

A trip to the mystical Cantabon Cave is another top Siquijor tourist spot for adventure lovers.

A guide is compulsory here. They will lead you through a small hole into the underground world, as the cave opens up and the crystal rock formations become clear.

The route through the cave is mapped out by the underground stream, dotted with varying lengths of swimming holes. This one-of-a-kind experience is one of the most unique things to do in Siquijor.

Day Trip To Apo Island

Any Siquijor itinerary would be incomplete without a visit to the breathtaking Apo Island.

Just a short 1-hour boat trip away, Apo Island is one of the best snorkel and dive sites in the world, known for its rich marine life and biodiversity.

Full Post: Apo Island Day Trip From Siquijor: The Ultimate Guide

Coco Grove Beach Resort offers an amazing day trip from Siquijor. You will travel in style on Coco Grove’s yacht and even get to enjoy a buffet lunch on a private beach

This is one of the best day trips we took in the Philippines and a must for anyone hoping to see turtles. You have a choice of either snorkeling or diving.

Tulapos Marine Sanctuary

Another top Siquijor natural attraction is Tulapos Marine Sanctuary.

This is the oldest and largest protected area in Siquijor and you will require a guide to enter.

The sanctuary is home to many sea creatures, including jackfish, starfish, clams, and sea turtles. The star of the show is the barracuda, which you can see by either snorkelling or diving.

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

Old Enchanted Balete Tree

Known as a mystical island of witchcraft, visiting the Old Enchanted Balete Tree is a must on your Siquijor itinerary.

The Old Enchanted Balete Tree is 400 years old, the biggest and oldest tree on the island. The tree is a real sight to behold and is said to have magical powers and healing properties.

There is a natural spring that flows underneath into a man-made pool and fish spa. Having fish nibble your feet at an enchanted tree is one of the most unique things to do in Siquijor.

 

Butterfly Sanctuary

The Butterfly Sanctuary is a real off-the-beaten-path destination, located high up in the mountains of central Siquijor.

The journey up by bike is an experience in itself and offers sweeping views of the mountains and the ocean. This is one of the best Siquijor tourist spots for environmental enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The owner of this humble conservation project breeds the butterflies and releases them back into the wild, to protect endangered species.

Supporting this local eco-tourism initiative is one of the best things to do in Siquijor.

Best waterfalls in Siquijor

Siquijor Island is home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Philippines. In fact, there are so many that they deserve their own section in this Siquijor Travel Guide.

From Tarzan swings and hidden caves to vibrant blue-tiered cascades, there are countless waterfalls just waiting to be explored.

Whilst Siquijor is home to some pretty striking and Instagram-worthy falls, the rawness and tranquility of the lesser-known falls deep in the jungle will be sure to captivate you.

Waterfall hopping is one of the best things to do on the island and a must on any Siquijor itinerary.

Must Read: Top 5 Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Siquijor

Cambugahay Falls

Cambugahay Falls are arguably the most iconic and beautiful falls in Siquijor.

This waterfall has three tiers, vibrant turquoise waters, and is surrounded by dense jungle. It is the ideal Siquijor tourist spot for nature lovers and thrill seekers.

Cambugahay Falls is kitted out with jumping points, Tarzan-esque rope swings, and bamboo rafts. There are 3 different tiers to explore.

Whether you prefer to marvel at the crystal-clear waters or fling yourself off a rope swing, Cambugahay Falls is a must on any Siquijor itinerary.

 

Kawasan Falls & Cave

One of the best things to do in Siquijor is to visit some of the more off-the-beaten-track falls.

Kawasan Falls is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and escape the crowds. The best part is that not many tourists even know it is here.

Not just a pristine secluded waterfall, but an adventurer’s playground with a hidden cave behind the cascade, a rope swing, and a rock slide.

Full Post: Kawasan Falls & Cave: The Complete Guide To Siquijor’s Hidden Gem

Lagaan Falls

Another one of the most beautiful Siquijor waterfalls is Lagaan Falls.

This fall is also lesser known to tourists, so you can spend hours enjoying the peace and practicing your backflips into the water.

Similar to Kawasan, Lagaan Falls also offers a rope swing, a natural rock slide, as well as a small cave to explore. 

Lugnason Falls

Lugnason Falls is another one of the most stunning natural attractions in Siquijor.

These falls are hidden in the lush greenery of the jungle and are the perfect spot for a refreshing dip.

The water rushing over the unique rock into a large swimming hole is a real sight to behold. If you’re up for a bit of exploration, you can also follow the stream through the forest to the man-made pools further down.

Lugnason Falls is located just 10 minutes from the tourist hub of San Juan. Its beauty and proximity mean there is no excuse not to add it to your Siquijor itinerary.

Full Post: Lugnason Falls Siquijor: EVERYTHING You Need To Know

Cangbangag Falls

Cangbangag Falls is the tallest waterfall in Siquijor.

Although not as vibrant as other Siquijor falls, its secluded location high up in the mountains makes this one of the more special Siquijor tourist spots.

For those who want to escape the crowds, you will be rewarded with 30 meters of cascading water, a cool swimming hole, and a tranquil atmosphere.

How to get to Siquijor Island

Whilst Siquijor is not the easiest island to reach in the world, the journey is fairly straightforward. Next in this Siquijor Travel Guide, we will cover exactly how to get there.

There is no airport on Siquijor Island, so wherever you’re coming from you’ll have to take a ferry across. There are two ports in Siquijor, depending on where you’re coming from.

Generally, if you’re coming from Bohol or Cebu, you will dock at Larena Port. If you’re coming from Dumaguete, you’ll dock at Siquijor Port.

You can read my full How To Get To Siquijor Guide here.

 

From Manila

There are no direct flights to Siquijor from Manila, as there is no airport located on the island.

This means that if you are traveling from Manila to Siquijor, you will have to fly to either Bohol or Dumaguete first and then take a ferry.

Direct flights from Manila to Bohol / Dumaguete run every day with the following airlines –

• Cebu Pacific
• Philippine Airlines
• Air Asia

The journey time for both airports is roughly 1 hour 30 minutes. Flight prices start from about $35.

 

From Cebu

There is no direct Cebu to Siquijor flight. You will have to fly from Cebu to Dumaguete and then take a ferry across.

Cebu Pacific is the only airline to offer this route. There are direct flights from Cebu to Dumaguete on the following days and times –

• Monday – Saturday at 7:40 PM
• Tuesday & Saturday at 5:50 PM
• Sunday at 8:45 PM

The flight from Cebu to Dumaguete takes about 55 minutes. Prices start from about $35.

Furthermore, you can also take a ferry from Cebu City to Siquijor via Tagbilaran in Bohol.

Oceanjet operates this route every day at 1:00 PM.

The journey time is about 5 hours, with a 20-minute stop in Bohol. This will cost you about $34.

 

 

The majority of travelers visit Moalboal and Oslob as part of their Cebu itineraries. Traveling direct from Cebu City to Siquijor is therefore not always convenient.

Fortunately, you can travel down Cebu Island and also reach Siquijor via Dumaguete.

If you’re coming from Moalboal or Oslob, I have written a detailed step-by-step How To Get From Moalboal To Siquijor Guide.

From Bohol

Oceanjet and ApekopTravel are currently the only two companies that run the Bohol to Siquijor ferry. This ferry runs every day.

The Bohol to Siquijor ferry schedule is as follows –

• OceanJet: Tagbilaran – Siquijor Pier at 3:20 PM
• ApekopTravel: Tagbilaran – Larena Port at 10:00 AM

The journey time is about 2 hours. Prices start from $15 and can be booked online in advance here.

From Dumaguete

Dumaguete is located on the island next to Cebu called Negros Oriental. It is just a short ferry journey away from Siquijor.

There are many different ferry options to get from Dumaguete to Siquijor all day every day. You can compare the companies and schedules in my full How To Get To Siquijor Island post.

Currently, only Oceanjet can be booked online in advance here. All of the others can be booked at the port directly.

 

 

How to get around Siquijor

The best way of getting around Siquijor is with a scooter.

This is the main mode of transport for everyone and the roads are very well-maintained. Generally, you can reach most of the main Siquijor tourist spots by following the Siquijor Circumferential Road around the island.

We hired our bike for 350 PHP ($6) a day from Stella’z Guesthouse for 5 days.

If you’re not so keen on hiring a scooter, then you will find many tricycles located in San Juan.

Single journeys should be relatively inexpensive. If you are interested in visiting a few main tourist spots, be sure to talk to your driver and organise a price for the day.

Siquijor tour packages

Next up on this Siquijor Travel Guide are the best tour packages.

As a pretty off-the-beaten-path destination, there are not many organised Siquijor tours at all. In fact, the best way to explore the main highlights is with a DIY tour.

You can embark on these DIY tours yourself if you’re confident with a scooter, or simply talk to the tricycle drivers in San Juan and they will be happy to create a tour of the main tourist spots for you.

For DIY tour ideas, you can skip to my suggested itinerary here.

However, if you are looking for an all-included tour package, there is a fantastic Siquijor day trip from Dumaguete. This could be a great option if you are visiting Moalboal or Oslob first and are a little short on time.

 

 

Can you day a day trip to Siquijor from Cebu?

Due to the long journey times and the ferry schedule, it is not possible to do a day trip to Siquijor from Cebu. I would recommend staying at least one night.

If you’re short on time, you can do a Siquijor day trip from Dumaguete as above. This would be convenient if you had visited Moalboal or Oslob previously.

Where to stay in Siquijor

Any Siquijor Travel Guide would be incomplete without accommodation.

When visiting Siquijor, the majority of travelers tend to stay in the tourist hub of San Juan. This is where you will find most of the main bars, restaurants, beaches, and accommodations.

Whether you’re a luxury beach resort kind of traveler or a broke backpacker, these are the best accommodation options for every kind of budget –

Cheap hotels in Siquijor

Stella’z Guesthouse – one of the best budget-friendly hotels in Siquijor, this is where we stayed during our trip.

The rooms are spacious and impeccably clean, each with aircon, a mini-fridge, a kettle, and a hot shower.

 

This Siquijor hotel is located in the heart of Siquijor in San Juan. It is not far from the main tourist spots and within walking distance of many delicious restaurants.

Each room has a private terrace area, with a table and drying rack for clothes. Moreover, the wifi is good for Siquijor, and scooter rental is very reasonable. There is also free drinking water available.

Prices start from $7.00 for a shared dorm room and $29.00 for a private room per night.

 

Medium-budget hotels and resorts in Siquijor

Mandala Tribe Treehouses – one of the most unique hotels in Siquijor and in the Philippines in general. A truly one-of-a-kind experience.

Embrace jungle living surrounded by nature in one of these rustic yet trendy treehouses. Each treehouse has an outdoor shower, air conditioning, and a little balcony.

 

Breakfast is included and served on a little tray to your door each morning.

These treehouses are located near all of the main Siquijor tourist spots and restaurants. This accommodation is just 5 minutes from the iconic Paliton Beach.

Private cabins start from $60.00 per night.

Luxury Siquijor resorts

Coco Grove Beach Resort – boasting 800 meters of white-sand beach, this is one of the most stunning Siquijor resorts.

 

Coco Grove offers native-style cottages and villas, set within lush gardens or on the beachfront. There are also deluxe hotel rooms, all with air-conditioning, a private veranda, and a minibar.

This luxury Siquijor resort also has three swimming pools, a delicious beachfront restaurant and bar, and a spa. It is perfectly positioned to admire the turquoise waters and breathtaking sunset each night.

 

The resort offers many recreational activities and includes a games room with billiards, darts, or foosball. Furthermore, Coco Grove also offers many amazing tours and activities outside the resort.

They boast their very own dive school, as well as snorkeling trips. You cannot miss their extraordinary day trip to Apo Island on their very own private yacht.

A stay here is the epitome of a tropical escape. Prices start from $100.00 per night.

 

Where to eat in Siquijor

Knowing where to eat is an important part of this Siquijor Travel Guide.

Siquijor Island boasts a vibrant food scene. Many delicious restaurants harmoniously blend traditional Filipino favourites with newer international influences.

Most of the best restaurants in Siquijor are based in the tourist hub of San Juan.

Full Post: Where To Eat: Top 10 BEST Siquijor Restaurants

Although only 5 barely scratch the surface, here are my must-visit restaurants in Siquijor –

• Baha Bar – live music and an amazing atmosphere. Filipino, Western, and Southeast Asian dishes. Homemade cocktails and a wide variety of craft beers.
• Luca Loko – healthy refreshing bites and stunning smoothie bowls. Best for breakfast but also offers many Asian fusion dishes for lunch or dinner. A great spot for vegans and vegetarians.
• Dolce Amore – authentic homemade Italian food and gelato. Best pasta and pizza in Siquijor. A little pricey but well worth the money.
• Chekesh – amazing low-budget restaurant with a choice of canteen buffet-style or something from the menu. Fresh seafood, Filipino cuisine, and burgers. Cheap cocktails and smoothies.
• Monkey Business – Asian dishes and Western favourites. Beautiful decor, swinging chairs, and great wifi. Live acoustic music and an extensive cocktail menu.

 

Recommended Siquijor itinerary

Next up on this Siquijor Travel Guide is a recommended itinerary.

As well as countless beaches and waterfalls to visit, there are many more off-the-beaten-path tourist spots that delve further into Siquijor’s rich cultural history.

Furthermore, if you’re an environmental enthusiast or a lover of the underwater world, there are many extraordinary marine sanctuaries, conservation projects, and dive sites.

 

As a relatively small island, you could visit most of the main tourist spots in a couple of days. However, this would not allow you to truly appreciate the laidback vibe and explore some less popular spots.

If you benefit from time, I would recommend at least 5 days for your Siquijor itinerary. This would not only give you enough time for exploration but also for relaxing and taking things a little slower.

However, for the sake of this guide, here is my suggested Siquijor itinerary 2 days –

DAY 1 – waterfall hopping

• Morning – start your day with a hearty breakfast. I would recommend a delicious smoothie bowl from Luka Loco. Organise a scooter rental and make your way to Lugnason Falls, located not far from San Juan. We’re then heading eastward to the town of Lazi, where most of the main waterfalls are concentrated. Check out Cambugahay Falls first.
• Afternoon – Lagaan Falls and Kawasan Falls are nearby to visit after. Then it is time to grab some lunch. Depending on how you’re doing for time, you can drive 15 minutes up into the mountains to appreciate the views and the Butterfly Sanctuary. Stop off at Lazi Church on your way back to San Juan.
• Evening – head to either Dolce Amore for Italian food or Wakanda for Spanish food. If you head to Wakanda, some nights they host parties and bachata classes. Check out Monkey Business for a few drinks after.

 

DAY 2 – beach bumming & cultural spots

• Morning – grab breakfast at Coco Grove Resort and admire the ocean while you sip your morning coffee. Then head to Salagdoong Beach for cliff jumping, water sliding, and relaxing on the beach. If you’re interested in diving with barracudas, the Tulapos Marine Sanctuary is located nearby.
• Afternoon – start making your way back in the direction of San Juan and stop off at the Old Balete Tree. Grab some lunch before making your way to Tubob Beach. Spend the afternoon snorkeling at the marine sanctuary. Head to Paliton Beach and spend the late afternoon relaxing in the sun.
• Evening – do not miss the sunset at Paliton Beach, a great spot to enjoy some happy hour cocktails. For dinner head to Baha Bar for live music, delicious food, and craft beers.

If you benefit from time, I would highly recommend adding an extra day, so you can take the extraordinary Apo Island Day Trip with Coco Grove. This is one of the best snorkel and dive sites in the world and a must on any Siquijor itinerary.

 

Suggested Siquijor budget

Important in any Siquijor Travel Guide is an estimated budget. This is completely dependent on the type of traveler you are.

We stayed in basic accommodation, ate in the most affordable restaurants, and didn’t spend much on expensive tours.

Generally, activities and natural attractions in Siquijor are very cheap. You shouldn’t expect to pay more than a couple of dollars for waterfalls and beaches.

 

As the main tourist spots are quite scattered, you will certainly need a means of transportation around the island, which is a necessary expense to factor in.

We found restaurants to be a little pricier than other destinations in the Philippines. However, accommodation is very reasonably priced.

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

Example daily expenses

• Accommodation – 350 PHP – 1000 PHP ($6-$17)
• Beer – 100 PHP ($1.70)
• Scooter Rental – 350 PHP ($6)
• Lunch – 300 PHP – 500 PHP ($5-8)
• Cambugahay Falls Entrance Fee – 30 PHP ($0.50)
• Coffee – 120 PHP ($2)
• Paliton Beach Entrance Fee – 20 PHP ($0.35)

FAQs

When is the best time to visit Siquijor?

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

This would be during the dry season from December – March. During this time you are (nearly always) guaranteed great weather and a lively atmosphere.

Is it worth going to Siquijor?

Siquijor Island is definitely worth a visit for those wanting to escape crowds of tourists and enjoy nature in its purest untamed form.

Not as touristy as other destinations in the Philippines, the island has a laidback vibe and a much slower pace of life.

There are heaps of activities for you to enjoy, from waterfall hopping to enchanted trees and healing rituals, to pristine beaches and incredible marine life.

How many days do you need in Siquijor?

I would recommend at least 3 days in Siquijor.

Siquijor is a relatively small island, however, there are heaps of natural attractions and cultural sites to enjoy. If you are a fan of diving and snorkeling, then be sure to leave enough time to explore the different beaches and marine sanctuaries.

Compared to other more touristy destinations in the Philippines, Siquijor is home to beautiful untamed nature but does not attract loads of tourists.

Therefore, be sure to leave yourself enough time to appreciate this natural beauty and the serenity of the surroundings without rushing to tick things off.

If you benefit from time, then you also can not miss the extraordinary day trip to Apo Island, one of the best snorkel and dive sites in the world.

What is Siquijor best known for?

Siquijor is known as a mystical island, with a long-standing reputation for black magic and witchcraft.

The fascination with this mystical land has turned Siquijor into a rapidly developing tourist destination in the Philippines.

The island is also increasingly known for its untamed nature, waterfalls, abundant marine life, and pristine beaches.

Well, there you have it! This Siquijor Travel Guide has detailed everything you need to know for an unforgettable trip to the Philippines’ mystical island.

If you liked this post and you’ll be spending some time in Siquijor, feel free to check out my other handy guides –

• Top 13 BEST Things To Do in Siquijor
• How To Get To Siquijor Island 2024: A Step-By-Step Guide
• Apo Island Day Trip From Siquijor: The Ultimate Guide
• Where To Eat: Top 10 BEST Restaurants in Siquijor
• How To Spend 3 Days in Siquijor: Ultimate DIY Itinerary
• Kawasan Falls: The Complete Guide To Siquijor’s Hidden Gem
• Top 5 Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Siquijor
• How To Get From Siquijor To Siargao: Schedule & Fare (2024)
• Lugnason Falls Siquijor: EVERYTHING You Need To Know
• How To Get From Moalboal To Siquijor: Schedule & Fare (2024)