Things to see and do Camiguin Island

Also known as Magsaysay Island, it can be reached from the village of San Roque in 20 minutes by boat. It lies off the east coast of Camiguin and is home to a few fishing families. The sand on this small island is even whiter than on White Island, and the rocky seabed makes it ideal for snorkeling. You can also enjoy grilled fish, shellfish or soup. Please note that the maximum time on the island is 4 hours.

Located not far from Mambajao, the volcano or Mount Hibok-Hibok is the only one of Camiguin's seven active volcanoes. However, the volcano last erupted in 1951, causing extensive damage to the town. In the aftermath of this catastrophe, which killed almost 500 people and caused major losses to animals and plants, a national observatory called Philvolcs (Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology) was set up 400 metres up on the mountainside to monitor and analyze the volcano's activity. This observatory is well worth a visit before reaching the foot of the volcano, if you wish to learn more about volcanoes and earthquakes. It is also advisable to consult the observatory before considering climbing the volcano, accompanied by a local guide (your hotel or tourist office will undoubtedly be able to direct you to one). At 1,300 metres high, it takes around eight hours to walk up and back down. It's a real challenge for climbers, but after this effort, which starts gently on the prepared paths, you'll be sure to appreciate the magnificent view over the sea and forest, and further afield to the islands of Bohol, Siquijor, Cebu and Negros. Hibok-Hibok has four craters, some of which have become small lakes. All the more beautiful for the view. A unique hike in an exceptional environment.

White Island" is an incomparably soft sandbank - immaculately white, if you must know - up to three hundred metres long at low tide, disappearing completely at high tide. White Island lies two kilometers between Agoho and the beaches of Yumbing, just behind the Hibok-Hibok volcano. It's the ideal place to sunbathe, snorkel or simply enjoy the view of the surrounding area from this paradise islet. However, it's best to get there early in the morning or at the end of the day, as there's no shade on this sandbar glistening in the turquoise blue of the Mindanao Sea, and what's more, you may be the only ones to enjoy the island for an hour or so.

Underwater. White Beach is also an excellent expedition for snorkeling enthusiasts, just around the beach and some three hundred meters from the islet. Its seabed is actually home to a sloping reef ranging in depth from six to twenty-five metres. To explore it, however, you need to be a certified " advanced " diver. Among other things, there's a magnificent black coral garden, and an occasional current offers the chance to see bigger fish and feel yourself fly as the current carries you away... For experienced divers only. Fish are abundant here, with stingrays, moray eels, scorpion fish and crabs to name but a few.

The Katibawasan Falls are a breathtaking sight. Their clear waters tumble like a veil from a height of over seventy meters into a natural pool surrounded by rich vegetation: wild orchids, ferns and other woody components of tropical flora. These are Camiguin's highest waterfalls. Bathers and picnickers frequent this spot, especially in summer, for its refreshing waters.

Camiguin's beaches are mostly black volcanic sand, and Kabila Beach is an exception, with its fine white sand. Kabila (or Kibila) is the smallest fishing village. It's also home to the giant clam sanctuary, where a guided tour will teach you all about this species. The big plus? Snorkel right across the beach to observe these clams in their element.

On Camiguin the beaches are volcanic sandy for the most, and Kabila Beach is an exception, because its sand is white and very fine. Kabila is the smallest fishing town in Camiguin and is part of the municipality of Guinsiliban.

It's located in the Capitol in Mambajao (on the left, after the hospital), on the way out of town. The staff at the provincial tourist office are very helpful and dynamic. They can be a rich source of information on what to do in the area and what to see. They can also help you if you're looking for a guide to climb Mount Hibok-Hibok, for example. It might be worth dropping in when you arrive on the island.

Marked by a huge white cross floating on a pontoon, this is one of the island's most popular tourist sites. It is visible from the surface at low tide. It was an earthquake in 1871 that submerged this cemetery, where it is now possible to dive, accompanied by a guide. The nearby church was buried by ash from the eruption of the Daan volcano, which means "old volcano". Only the bell tower and water tower were not completely covered.

Near the pebble beach, there is a source of hot water. It is fun to feel this contrast between the "cold" water of the sea and the hot water from the source.

Located at the foot of Mount Hibok-Hibok, these springs are filled with water flowing at temperatures of around 40°C, rising to 60°C near the spring. Given the temperature of the water, it's advisable not to exceed a bathing time of 20 minutes. It's best to go for a swim in the early morning, just after sunrise or late afternoon, and to avoid weekends. There's a small restaurant next door.

Known as the Santo Niño Cold Spring, it flows directly from Mount Hibok-Hibok and is a popular spot for a refreshing dip during the summer months. At some points in the natural pool, the depth can reach two meters. On site, you'll find a food court, small sari-sari stalls and convenient sanitary facilities. Perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

Accessible to all; A maximum depth of 40 m. This remote site (about one and a half hour browsing) is very interesting. Hard corals have deposited on the sand. There are caves with colorful fish of all sizes. There are often species to the imposing size.

Located on the ancient volcano of Camiguin, this path of crosses and hikes is easily accessible and relatively easy (avoid the hottest hours of the day, as it climbs anyway). Allow around an hour's walk. There are fourteen charming stations along the way, which are actually life-size statues of Jesus on the Way of the Cross, the last of which is carved out of volcanic rock. The view from the summit over the surrounding countryside is superb.

The Tuasan Falls are less popular with travellers than the Katibawasan Falls, yet they are just as impressive and just as refreshing. A lifeguard supervises the pool, so you can bathe in complete peace of mind, even though there's no current and you're on foot. The waterfall rises to a height of some twenty meters, and the water has pretty emerald-blue hues. We particularly appreciate its wooded, tropical ambience, with the waterfall surrounded by rocks and abundant, verdant wildlife. Very relaxing and photogenic.