Siquijor Island: A DIY Tour in the Mystical Island
Siquijor has been described as mysterious and has always been linked to sorcery and witchcraft. But that doesn't stop us from exploring the province. So, let me share with you the experience during our stay in the 'Mystical Island' of Siquijor.
On our way to Siquijor, we met Manong Borognoy on the boat and tells us more about the island. Manong Borognoy is a driver that can give you a tour in Siquijor or Dumaguete. He lends us a tourist map and suggested us a cheap accommodation to stay. As we reached Siquijor Port, we saw the beautiful turquoise water in the port. After we disembark that boat, we walked to the port gates where we also rented our motorbikes. We then proceed to Replica Manor (the one Manong Borognoy suggested) to check-in and leave our stuff.
ST. FRANCIS OF ASISI (SIQUIJOR) CHURCH
Location: Santa Fe Street, Siquijor
Entrance Fee: N/A
Siquijor Church is just a few meters away from the port. It was built in 1774 and was the sole Catholic Church on the island until the middle of the 19th century. The church is located at the plaza with a "Welcome to Siquijor" sign is also seen. At the side of the church is a bell tower that stands independently from the church. The bell tower also serves as a watchtower during the Spanish era. Now, the church is a heritage site and a famous landmark in Siquijor.
ENCHANTED BALETE TREE
Location: Brgy. Campalanas, Lazi
Entrance Fee: PhP 5.00
We were supposed to go first to Capilay Spring Park. When we arrived at San Juan town proper, we saw a small park. We snubbed it without knowing that it is actually Capilay Spring Park so we didn't have any photos of it. We were supposed to also go in Lugnason Falls, but a local said that is currently close since it is dry (during summer) and we already passed Tubod Beach. So we just straight ahead to the century-old 'Enchanted Balete Tree' in Barangay Campalanas in the town of Lazi.
We just passed by Capilay Spring and Tubod Beach. Going back to the tree, the Balete Tree is said to be around 400 years old. Under the Enchanted Balete Tree is a man-made pool with small fishes in it where guests can have a fish spa. The water of the pool comes from the base of the tree. Beside the century-old tree is a souvenir shop where you can buy lots of stuff like ref-magnets, T-shirts and even love potions LOL. The fish spa is free, but you can also give a donation.
SAN ISIDRO LABRADOR (LAZI) CHURCH
Location: Siquijor Circumferential Road, Lazi
Entrance Fee: N/A
San Isidro Labrador or commonly known as Lazi Church was constructed in 1882 and completed by 1884. The church is built from coral stones and hardwood like any other century-old Philippine churches. It is one of the oldest churches on the island of Siquijor. The church is surrounded by huge Acacia trees and just across the church is its also famous convent that also has a museum of old religious artifacts.
CAMBUGAHAY FALLS
Location: Siquijor Circumferential Road, Lazi
Entrance Fee: N/A
From Lazi Church, we proceed to our next destination in the town of Lazi, which is around 10 minutes on a motorbike. We had our lunch first from the "ihaw-ihaw" at the entrance of Cambuhagay Falls. A barbecue for PhP 20 each and a "puso" rice for PhP 8 is a really cheap but fulfilling lunch. So, after that satisfying meal, we proceed to the waterfalls. The entrance is along the road (that I believe was built for the falls) and then a series of steps going down (don't worry, the steps are just easy and not long) to the waterfall.
Cambuhagay Falls is one of the most popular attractions in Siquijor. You'll see a lot of photos online of the rope vine swing in the third tier of the waterfall. Cambuhagay Falls is a three-tier waterfall. The third level has the highest water cascade and might have the deepest pool, while the first and second is also perfect for swimming. During summer, the water is somewhat clear blue and green while it turns a little brown during rainy seasons. Since there is no entrance fee in the waterfall, you can also give a donation or tips especially to the guys who built the rope vine swing.
We really enjoyed Cambuhagay Falls and didn't notice the time. We still have a lot of places to visit and it's almost afternoon, so we immediately went back to our motorbikes and ride to our next destination.
SALAGDOONG BEACH
Location: Brgy. Olang, Maria
Entrance Fee: PhP 25.00
Salagdoong Beach in the town of Maria is around 30 minutes from Cambuhagay Falls. We were also supposed to go to Kagusuan Beach in Maria but a local warned us about stolen stuff from tourist and travelers on the beach. But the real reason we didn't get to Kagusuan is, we missed the turn upon going to Salagdoong LOL. Anyways, Salagdoong Beach is a developed beach that has a complete necessity like cottages, shower/comfort rooms, restaurant, and rooms. It also has a cliff diving spot, and a slide (which is closed when we arrived).
On the way to the beach is the Salagdoong Forest Reserve, which is a man-made forest just like the one in Bilar, Bohol. The beach is a white sand beach, but the sand is not that fine, but the water is very clear turquoise blue and just really inviting. There are two cliff diving platforms, one is around 15 feet, and the other is around 20 feet high. Since we stayed too long at Cambuhagay Falls, we need to limit our time in Salagdoong beach so just after a couple of minutes swimming and cliff jumping, we proceed to our next destination.
TULAPOS MARINE SANCTUARY
Location: Siquijor Circumferential Road, Enrique Villanueva
Entrance Fee: PhP 25.00 (snorkeling) / PhP 100.00 (scuba diving)
Aside from the beautiful beaches, Siquijor also has some amazing diving and snorkeling sites. One these is the Tulapos Marine Sanctuary in the town of Enrique Villanueva. From Salagdoong Beach, Tulapos is around 15-20 minute motorbike ride. The marine sanctuary is surrounded widely by mangroves. It has a very fine white sand beach, similar to Alona Beach in Panglao, Bohol.
A few meters from the shore are dead corals that have been destroyed by the previous typhoons. But you can still see marine life here like sea cucumbers, giant clams, and sea urchins. You need to go several meters away to see the big fishes and some corals. If you don't have your snorkeling gear, you can rent from them. You can also rent a life vest and a paddle boat to go to the deeper parts of the sea. It's also hard to spot some of the marine creatures so it is also suggested to rent a tour guide. When you go snorkeling in the afternoon where is low tide, it is recommended to wear aqua shoes since there are a lot of sea urchins. Also, there are no shower rooms in the area so you will need to take a shower in your hotel or accommodation.
It is almost dark when we finished snorkeling in Tulapos Marine Sanctuary and needed to go back to our accommodation since we have to leave Siquijor early the following day. The next morning, we experience the warm hospitality of the people of Siquijor. We went were looking for a place to have breakfast before we leave the island. We saw a restaurant called 'Dabarkads' in San Juan and decided to have our breakfast in it. The restaurant is closed for an event, but as we walked away, the staff called us and invited us to eat there for free. The event was the 25th anniversary of being a priest of Rev. Fr. Casiano Salac Jr. Fr.Casiano also greeted us and welcomed us.
We visited just 6 attractions in Siquijor but still it gives us a new perspective of the island. There's a lot of places to visit and lots of things to do and a day won't just be enough. So hopefully, when we come back, we could stay for more than a day since Siquijor is really worth to visit!
For more information, details, what to do, and more places to visit in Siquijor, please check my Siquijor Island: Travel Guide and Itinerary that is coming very soon! Thanks for reading!
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| We <3 Siquijor |
Getting to the Island
Siquijor is an island province located in Central Visayas bounded by Cebu and Negros. There is an airport on the island, but it does not have commercial flights, so the only way of getting here is via sea travel. Dumaguete City in Negros is the gateway to Siquijor if you are coming from Manila and Cebu. While Tagbilaran has a direct ferry trip to Siquijor. You can check my travel guide for details coming soon. |
| Approaching port of Siquijor |
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| See that water? |
Getting Around the Island
Siquijor is the third smallest province in the country (first is Batanes and the second is Camiguin). Tricycles, motorbikes, and multi-cabs are the primary options to get around the island. You can book a tour from some tour providers or make it more exciting by doing-it-yourself by just renting a motorbike (all you need is a tourist map and the internet on your phone). |
| "Scooter Diaries" |
Exploring the Island
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| Having a chat with Manong Borognoy |
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| Click the image for higher quality |
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| Riding in Siquijor |
ST. FRANCIS OF ASISI (SIQUIJOR) CHURCH
Location: Santa Fe Street, Siquijor
Entrance Fee: N/A
Siquijor Church is just a few meters away from the port. It was built in 1774 and was the sole Catholic Church on the island until the middle of the 19th century. The church is located at the plaza with a "Welcome to Siquijor" sign is also seen. At the side of the church is a bell tower that stands independently from the church. The bell tower also serves as a watchtower during the Spanish era. Now, the church is a heritage site and a famous landmark in Siquijor.
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| Welcome to Siquijor! |
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| St. Francis of Asisi Church or Siquijor Church |
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| The Bell Tower |
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| The interior of the church |
ENCHANTED BALETE TREE
Location: Brgy. Campalanas, Lazi
Entrance Fee: PhP 5.00
We were supposed to go first to Capilay Spring Park. When we arrived at San Juan town proper, we saw a small park. We snubbed it without knowing that it is actually Capilay Spring Park so we didn't have any photos of it. We were supposed to also go in Lugnason Falls, but a local said that is currently close since it is dry (during summer) and we already passed Tubod Beach. So we just straight ahead to the century-old 'Enchanted Balete Tree' in Barangay Campalanas in the town of Lazi.
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| The Enchanted Balete Tree |
We just passed by Capilay Spring and Tubod Beach. Going back to the tree, the Balete Tree is said to be around 400 years old. Under the Enchanted Balete Tree is a man-made pool with small fishes in it where guests can have a fish spa. The water of the pool comes from the base of the tree. Beside the century-old tree is a souvenir shop where you can buy lots of stuff like ref-magnets, T-shirts and even love potions LOL. The fish spa is free, but you can also give a donation.
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| This tree has been here for centuries |
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| Natural spring pool under the tree |
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| Trying the fish spa |
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| The fishes ignores my foot |
SAN ISIDRO LABRADOR (LAZI) CHURCH
Location: Siquijor Circumferential Road, Lazi
Entrance Fee: N/A
San Isidro Labrador or commonly known as Lazi Church was constructed in 1882 and completed by 1884. The church is built from coral stones and hardwood like any other century-old Philippine churches. It is one of the oldest churches on the island of Siquijor. The church is surrounded by huge Acacia trees and just across the church is its also famous convent that also has a museum of old religious artifacts.
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| Acacia Trees around the church |
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| San Isidro Labrador Church or Lazi Church |
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| San Labrador Convent |
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| Interior of the church (there is a wedding) |
CAMBUGAHAY FALLS
Location: Siquijor Circumferential Road, Lazi
Entrance Fee: N/A
From Lazi Church, we proceed to our next destination in the town of Lazi, which is around 10 minutes on a motorbike. We had our lunch first from the "ihaw-ihaw" at the entrance of Cambuhagay Falls. A barbecue for PhP 20 each and a "puso" rice for PhP 8 is a really cheap but fulfilling lunch. So, after that satisfying meal, we proceed to the waterfalls. The entrance is along the road (that I believe was built for the falls) and then a series of steps going down (don't worry, the steps are just easy and not long) to the waterfall.
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| On to Cambuhagay Falls |
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| Easy steps |
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| There it is! |
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| Cambuhagay Falls (The third level, well the level depends on where you start) |
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| The second level |
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| And the first level |
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| Ready to jump to the waters! |
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| A bluish green water of the waterfall |
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| Water is really nice |
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| Locals preparing the swing |
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| Here we go! |
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| Beautiful! |
We really enjoyed Cambuhagay Falls and didn't notice the time. We still have a lot of places to visit and it's almost afternoon, so we immediately went back to our motorbikes and ride to our next destination.
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| We love Cambuhagay! |
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| Hooray for Cambuhagay! |
SALAGDOONG BEACH
Location: Brgy. Olang, Maria
Entrance Fee: PhP 25.00
Salagdoong Beach in the town of Maria is around 30 minutes from Cambuhagay Falls. We were also supposed to go to Kagusuan Beach in Maria but a local warned us about stolen stuff from tourist and travelers on the beach. But the real reason we didn't get to Kagusuan is, we missed the turn upon going to Salagdoong LOL. Anyways, Salagdoong Beach is a developed beach that has a complete necessity like cottages, shower/comfort rooms, restaurant, and rooms. It also has a cliff diving spot, and a slide (which is closed when we arrived).
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| Sign board along the highway |
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| At the entrance of the resort |
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| Salagdoong Forest Reserve |
On the way to the beach is the Salagdoong Forest Reserve, which is a man-made forest just like the one in Bilar, Bohol. The beach is a white sand beach, but the sand is not that fine, but the water is very clear turquoise blue and just really inviting. There are two cliff diving platforms, one is around 15 feet, and the other is around 20 feet high. Since we stayed too long at Cambuhagay Falls, we need to limit our time in Salagdoong beach so just after a couple of minutes swimming and cliff jumping, we proceed to our next destination.
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| Salagdoong Beach |
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| Short shorelines but very nice waters |
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| Water is just really inviting you in |
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| Gaze upon the horizon |
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| The cliff diving platform |
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| It's higher than it looks |
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| Brace for impact! |
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| Peace! |
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| Jump to the clear turquoise water |
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| The other side of the beach |
TULAPOS MARINE SANCTUARY
Location: Siquijor Circumferential Road, Enrique Villanueva
Entrance Fee: PhP 25.00 (snorkeling) / PhP 100.00 (scuba diving)
Aside from the beautiful beaches, Siquijor also has some amazing diving and snorkeling sites. One these is the Tulapos Marine Sanctuary in the town of Enrique Villanueva. From Salagdoong Beach, Tulapos is around 15-20 minute motorbike ride. The marine sanctuary is surrounded widely by mangroves. It has a very fine white sand beach, similar to Alona Beach in Panglao, Bohol.
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| Tulapos Marine Sanctuary |
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| Rates |
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| The shore, low tide at that time |
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| A sprout near the shores |
A few meters from the shore are dead corals that have been destroyed by the previous typhoons. But you can still see marine life here like sea cucumbers, giant clams, and sea urchins. You need to go several meters away to see the big fishes and some corals. If you don't have your snorkeling gear, you can rent from them. You can also rent a life vest and a paddle boat to go to the deeper parts of the sea. It's also hard to spot some of the marine creatures so it is also suggested to rent a tour guide. When you go snorkeling in the afternoon where is low tide, it is recommended to wear aqua shoes since there are a lot of sea urchins. Also, there are no shower rooms in the area so you will need to take a shower in your hotel or accommodation.
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| Our guide holding a giant clam |
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| Spotted a lion fish |
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| A blue Patrick! |
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| A sea cucumber that looks like a.... LOL! (btw, that white stuff is really sticky! LOL!) |
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| More giant clams, sea urchin and corals. |
It is almost dark when we finished snorkeling in Tulapos Marine Sanctuary and needed to go back to our accommodation since we have to leave Siquijor early the following day. The next morning, we experience the warm hospitality of the people of Siquijor. We went were looking for a place to have breakfast before we leave the island. We saw a restaurant called 'Dabarkads' in San Juan and decided to have our breakfast in it. The restaurant is closed for an event, but as we walked away, the staff called us and invited us to eat there for free. The event was the 25th anniversary of being a priest of Rev. Fr. Casiano Salac Jr. Fr.Casiano also greeted us and welcomed us.
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| Happy Silver Sacerdotal Anniversary father! |
We visited just 6 attractions in Siquijor but still it gives us a new perspective of the island. There's a lot of places to visit and lots of things to do and a day won't just be enough. So hopefully, when we come back, we could stay for more than a day since Siquijor is really worth to visit!
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| What? We're leaving already?? |
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| Cheers from Siquijor! |
