Freediving Camiguin
Camiguin, often called the “Island Born of Fire” due to its seven volcanoes, is a small, pear-shaped island province in the southern Philippines, located in the Bohol Sea, about 10 kilometers north of Mindanao. It is known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, hot and cold springs, waterfalls, and unique dive sites.
how to get there
The easiest and fastest way to reach Camiguin is by air or a combination of air and fast ferry:
Direct Flight from Cebu: The simplest option is a direct flight from Cebu (CEB) to Camiguin (CGM) with a local airline, which takes about an hour.
Flight to Mindanao, then Ferry: Fly to Cagayan de Oro (CGY) on the neighboring main island of Mindanao. From the airport, take a bus or taxi to the port town of Balingoan (approx. 2-3 hours), and then a public ferry to Camiguin (Benoni port, approx. 1-1.5 hours).
Ferry from Bohol: From the island of Bohol (Jagna port), there are ferry connections to Camiguin (Balbagon port), although they are less frequent (typically 3 times a week) and take around 4.5 hours.
Special Features of Camiguin
Volcanic Underwater Landscapes: Camiguin is a volcanic island, and this geology is reflected in its dive sites. You will find unique features like cooled lava formations, steep slopes, and sandy areas with volcanic black sand.
The Sunken Cemetery: A truly unique landmark. The island’s old cemetery sank into the sea during a volcanic eruption in 1871. A giant white cross marks the spot, and the underwater site is a unique spot for snorkeling and diving, with the old tombstones and lava rocks now covered in coral, teeming with life.
Mantigue Island Nature Park: A small, protected islet off the east coast of Camiguin with a beautiful white sand beach and a designated marine sanctuary. The area is known for its healthy, vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life.
Macro Paradise (Muck Diving): Some sites, especially the sandy slopes and artificial structures like the Gipsy Rover wreck, are famous for “muck diving,” where you can spot unusual and small marine life like frogfish, ghost pipefish, seahorses, and various nudibranchs.
The Sunken Cemetery: This is an absolute must-do for snorkeling. The large, distinct white cross is visible above water, and swimming over the former cemetery, now an artificial reef, is a memorable and historically significant experience.
Mantigue Island: The protected area around Mantigue Island offers excellent snorkeling with very healthy, diverse coral formations and large schools of fish often visible in the clear, shallow waters.
White Island (Sandbar): While not known for reefs, the shifting white sandbar just a short boat ride from the main coast offers stunning views and clean, crystal-clear water perfect for a simple, relaxed snorkel around the sand edges.
Freediving Variety: The combination of natural steep slopes and walls (like at Mantigue Island) and the slightly deeper volcanic underwater landscapes offer interesting terrain for freedivers of various levels. The island even has specialized freediving schools offering advanced courses.
recommended for freedivers in Camiguin :
Molchanovs Instructor Training School
freediving school and Eco Beach Lodge
What else
to do ?
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
Best Weather (Dry Season): The ideal time is generally from March to May. The weather is sunny and dry, perfect for beach trips, hiking, and exploring the island’s natural attractions.
Peak Seasons & Festivals:
Holy Week (before Easter): Expect crowds and higher prices.
Lanzones Festival (Third or Fourth week of October): A vibrant, culturally rich celebration of the island’s signature sweet fruit. Book accommodations well in advance if visiting during this time.
Wet Season: June to November has more rainfall, which can sometimes affect boat trips to White Island or Mantigue Island. The landscape, however, remains lush.
Accommodations
Camiguin offers a good mix of choices, leaning towards budget and mid-range options, but with growing luxury/boutique choices:
Budget/Mid-Range: You’ll find plenty of inns, guesthouses (like homestays and basic resorts), and budget-friendly hotels, particularly in and around Mambajao (the main town) and the tourist hub of Yumbing Barangay. These often offer clean, comfortable rooms at very reasonable prices.
Luxury/Boutique: The island is developing more upscale options, including boutique resorts and more luxurious hotels with amenities like private pools, sea views, and wellness facilities (e.g., Nouveau Resort, Balai sa Baibai, Bintana Sa Paraiso). These cater to travelers seeking a more indulgent, quiet retreat.
Restaurants & Food
The food scene in Camiguin is a mix of local Filipino eateries and a scattering of international options, concentrated mainly in Mambajao and Yumbing:
Local Filipino Food: Look for small, locally-run restaurants and beachside grills offering classics like Chicken and Pork Adobo, Pancit (fried noodles), and incredibly fresh seafood, often at budget-friendly prices. Tambayan Sa Kanto Tuna Restaurant is noted for its tuna.
Specialty/International: You can find Italian cuisine, including delicious wood-fired pizza (e.g., La Dolce Vita, Northern Lights), and cafes with international fare.
Island Delicacy: Don’t leave without trying the local Lanzones fruit (if in season) and the delicious local sweet treats like Pastel de Camiguin (a soft, sweet bun with a custard filling).
How to Get Around
Camiguin is small (only 64km around the main coastal road), making transportation simple:
Motorbike/Scooter Rental: This is the most popular and flexible way to explore. You can rent a scooter for a full day and tour the entire island at your own pace.
Tricycle/Multicab: For shorter trips or if you prefer not to drive, tricycles (motorcycle taxis) and multicabs (small, open-air vans) are readily available. You can hire them for point-to-point travel or negotiate a full-day rate with a driver for a customized island tour.
Hired Van/Private Car: If traveling with a group or wanting maximum comfort, hiring a private car or van with a driver for the day is a common option.
Recommended For
Camiguin is an excellent destination for:
Nature Lovers and Adventure Seekers: With volcanoes (trekking Mount Hibok-Hibok), waterfalls (Katibawasan, Tuasan), hot and cold springs (Ardent Hot Spring, Santo Niño Cold Spring, Bura Soda Water Park), and a dramatic volcanic landscape, it’s a paradise for outdoors activities.
Divers and Snorkelers: Home to beautiful dive spots, including the unique Sunken Cemetery (where you can snorkel/dive among submerged tombstones and coral) and the thriving marine sanctuary around Mantigue Island.
Couples and Backpackers seeking a laid-back, off-the-beaten-path experience compared to more crowded Philippine islands like Boracay or El Nido. Camiguin maintains a quieter, more rural charm.
Photographers: The striking white sandbar of White Island and the majestic backdrop of Mount Hibok-Hibok offer incredible photo opportunities.