48 hours on Camiguin, Philippine ‘island born of fire’: beaches, ruins, lush forest, waterfalls, natural springs
- Seven volcanoes dominate island off northern Mindanao and have shaped its form and history; their lush slopes hide waterfalls and hot and cold natural springs
- A paradise for hikers, divers, history buffs and nature lovers, the island is an 80-minute flight from Manila and compact enough to see in two days
True to its nickname “island born of fire”, Camiguin has been shaped by volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. The pearl-shaped island off the north coast of Mindanao in the southern Philippines has one of the highest densities of volcanoes on Earth – there are seven within its 238 square kilometres (92 square miles). Among these, however, only Mount Hibok-Hibok (meaning “that which heaves”) is still considered active.
Camiguin’s compactness is an advantage; its lush forest, hot and cold natural springs, pristine white beaches, waterfalls, bird and animal life can all be explored in 48 hours. Here’s what to see on a visit.
Where to go
Katibawasan Falls: in the middle of a lush forest is a waterfall that cascades 75 metres (250 feet) into a narrow, hip-deep pool. The falls are surrounded by orchids, giant ferns and tropical trees that provide an atmospheric backdrop for a summer dip. This is also the favourite starting point for trekkers heading to the slopes of Mount Timpoong – Camiguin’s highest volcano, with a summit at 1,630 metres above sea level.
Bura soda water swimming pool: in the town of Catarman, 30 minutes from the provincial capital, Mambajao, the soda swimming pool has constantly flowing water that tastes like carbonated water. The water is crystal clear and its temperature is just right for relaxing while enjoying views of green rolling hills. There is also a tap from which visitors can drink the soda water, a mini-restaurant, and picnic sheds on site.
Mount Hibok-Hibok: an active stratovolcano with an elevation of 1,332 metres and a diameter at its base of roughly 10km, Mount Hibok-Hibok is a popular hiking destination in Camiguin. The trail to the summit traverses a low-density forest dotted with ferns, mosses, and bushes.
The summit, which takes between three and five hours to reach, offers views of the Ilihan Crater, White Island (see below), and the neighbouring islands of Siquijor and Bohol. To climb Mount Hibok-Hibok, you need a permit from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources office in Mambajao (+63 88 387 0040). There is a registration fee of 200 pesos per person, and guide fees start from 1,200 pesos.