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Trip Report
Ten days in the paradisiacal Region of the Visayas, Philippines
Enjoy the beauty of nature and the serene atmosphere of Camotes and Siquijor Islands
+ 5
AsiaPhilippines10 days / December 2023
Highs & Lows
Swimming with turtles, buying fruits in the villages and enjoying the sunsets with an ice-cold served beer
Quite frankly no lowlights but perhaps the lengthy checking process required to board a ferry."
Itinerary Overview
A famous French writer once said: “to choose is to renounce.” With its 7,641 islands, the Philippines indeed seems like a destination where you must make choices (and renunciations) part of your trip. Or perhaps not? The central region of the country, the archipelago of the Visayas, holds amazing places which would allow you to enjoy an incredible array of diverse locations and activities while island hopping. Each island has its own specific vibe (and may be more or less touristy), but you can be pretty sure to have an amazing time between strolls by the water and hikes in the hills, karaoke nights, fishes and lechon enjoyed in restaurants foot in the sand, trips on a scooter, snorkeling or diving in the sea, and bathing in waterfalls, more lechon, sunrises and sunsets, cool conversations with the friendly locals, with a nice cold San Miguel beer in your hand… and – of course – the most (objectively) beautiful beaches in the world.
Camotes Islands Discovering the hidden gem of the Visayas and its laidback atmostphere
1+Feeling like a kind of off-the-beaten-track destination to relax? Hop on a 3-hour ferry ride from Danao port to the hidden gem of Camotes Island. Despite some research, I still have not cracked the reason why the island is named after the (delicious) sweet potato, but staying there surely is sweet.
You will probably spend most of your time on the western side of the island, freely riding on a scooter on the nice shaded roads that wind between the forest, the fields, the coastline, and some nice barangays.
Not to sound bossy, but please make sure to:
- Spend the day at Tylang Diot beach (a tiny island accessible in 5 minutes from the fishermen village) where you can enjoy crystal blue waters, eat fish in the shade, and swim with the innumerable turtles coming in the afternoon.
- Enjoy the beauty and lively atmosphere of Santiago White beach and its friendly village. A perfect spot to start / finish the day in one of the various restaurants and cafes.
- Eat at Camotes Hidden Huts.
- Take part in a (wild) karaoke night. Filipinos love to sing (they’re all amazing singers) and definitely have the sense of show.
- And if you like running, the road between Santiago and San Isidoro is a really nice track under the trees.
Siquijor Make the most of the activities that this vibrant island has to offer
1+Close to Dumaguete, lays the beautiful and vibrant island of Siquijor. If it's famous amongst Filipinos for its witchcraft, the island has also become pretty popular with backpackers. It may feel slightly less authentic and “local" than other smaller islands (such as Pamilacan or Camotes), yet the atmosphere is still very laid back and locals are very welcoming.
There you'll be able to do many activities:
- Feel as happy as a clam in the water while snorkeling in the Tulapos Marine Sanctuary.
- Have the best lunch (and a siesta?) at Ayan's Local Food or at Wonderland Restaurant & Cafe.
- Refresh in the shade at Lugnason Falls.
- Enjoy the pool and the sunset at Infinity Heights resorts (you can pay a day use fee).
- Watch the sunset from a paddleboard on the popular Canbusyo beach or in the heights of the Bukid Café.
- Have dinner in the middle of the mountains at the Lambojon Terraces La Canopee. Or – slightly less local, but also delicious – savor a pizza from Dolce Amore.
- If you are into snorkeling or scuba diving, know that there are a lot of daily trips organized to Apo Island (arguably one of the best diving spots in the world, just saying!).
Q & A
Tips you would give a friend?
In Siquijor, don't hesitate to explore the northern and eastern sides of the island. They often feel less touristy, and you might even stumble upon spots to enjoy all to yourself.Packing tips?
Be sure to bring along a snorkeling mask to fully appreciate the wonders of marine life.Transportation Tips?
Ensure you allocate enough time for commuting between islands, as the connection may not be feasible in a single day (depending on departure/arrival schedules and potential delays).Any surprises?
Filipinos´ love (if not obsession) for karaoke and basketball. Make sure you enjoy the shows.
Lodging
Camotes Cay Hideaway It isn't the cheapest option, but it's definitely worth it. This bed & breakfast is tucked away in a secluded spot where you'll practically have the shoreline to yourself. The house is cozy and comes with a handy kitchen if you feel like cooking. Plus, the hosts are super friendly and accomodating.
Wonderland is a chill spot serving up great food. Just a heads up, the accommodations might feel a bit snug for the price and the nights can get pretty noisy with all the animals around. I wouldn't necessarily recommend staying here to be honest.