Camiguin Island

Volcanoes, hot springs, waterfalls, and slow island life

Country: Philippines 🇵🇭

Overview

Camiguin is a small volcanic island in the northern Mindanao region, often called the “Island Born of Fire” due to its many volcanoes.

Why Camiguin works especially well:

  • Compact island with short distances
  • Calm atmosphere and very low crowds
  • No need for hard hikes or complex planning
  • Easy to explore at a relaxed pace

This itinerary works best for 3–5 days and pairs well with Cebu or Bohol.

Getting to Camiguin ▾


Camiguin can be reached in two main ways.

Option 1 – Flight (easiest):
• Direct flight from Cebu to Camiguin Airport
• Limited schedule – book in advance

Option 2 – Ferry:
• Ferry from Bohol or from Cagayan de Oro (Mindanao)
• Slower and weather-dependent

Flights are strongly recommended if available.

Around the Island – Easy Exploration ▾


Camiguin is very small and easy to move around.

Transport options:
• Tricycle or motorcycle taxi
• Private driver for day trips
• Scooter rental (optional, short distances only)

Roads are simple and distances are short.
No long transfers are required.

Hot & Cold Springs ▾


Camiguin’s volcanic activity creates excellent natural springs.

Highlights:
• Ardent Hot Spring – warm pools surrounded by forest
• Sto. Niño Cold Spring – cool, refreshing water

These are easy-access stops with minimal walking.
Perfect for slow days.

Waterfalls – Short Walks Only ▾


Camiguin has several scenic waterfalls with easy access.

Highlights:
• Katibawasan Falls – tall waterfall with a short access path
• Tuasan Falls – quieter and less visited

No serious hiking is required.
Good stops combined with springs and viewpoints.

Volcanic Views & Landscapes ▾


Camiguin has multiple volcanoes visible from many parts of the island.

What to expect:
• Scenic viewpoints rather than summit hikes
• Green slopes and volcanic terrain
• Good photography spots

Summit hikes exist but are optional and not necessary to enjoy the island.

White Island Sandbar ▾


White Island is a famous offshore sandbar near Camiguin.

Highlights:
• Pure white sand with no vegetation
• 360° views of the island and volcanoes
• Very calm and scenic

How to visit:
• Short boat trip from the main coast
• Best early morning or late afternoon

Snorkeling & Coastal Time ▾


Camiguin offers relaxed snorkeling rather than dramatic reefs.

What to expect:
• Coral reefs close to shore
• Clear water on calm days
• Very few crowds

Snorkeling works best as a casual activity, not the main focus.

Departure – Where to Go Next ▾


From Camiguin you can:
• Fly back to Cebu
• Continue by ferry to Bohol or Mindanao
• Combine with Negros (via Dumaguete)

Camiguin works best as a calm middle or end point of a trip.

Best season

Best time to visit:

  • December–May – drier weather and calmer seas

Rainy season:

  • June–October – still possible, but less predictable

Camiguin is greener and cooler than many other Philippine islands.