Travel destinations: Camiguin, Philippines – Part 1

Paradise Island of Camiguin. . . Island Born out of Fire. . . Most Beautiful Island of the Philippine Archipelago. . . The Galapagos of South East Asia. . . Philippines’ Best Kept Secret. . . These are just some of the monickers of the small island of Camiguin, a pear shape island off the northern coast of Mindanao.

Philippines’ Best Kept Secret? Ask any locals in the Philippines

for Camiguin and chances are, they wouldn’t know where it is. Camiguin is yet to be discovered by most tourists and travelers. Even the website of the Department of Tourism does not currently return any information about this magnificent island.

Camiguin is a pearl among the 7,100 islands of the Philippine archipelago. Pristine beaches, unexplored forests, rich diving sites, vibrant Spanish heritage, breathtaking waterfalls, hot and cold springs and the volcanoes. If you’re idea of vacation is not missing the creature comforts of urban life, Camiguin is not for you.

Off the beaten tourist track, Camiguin offers unspoiled natural wonders. You do, however, can get air-conditioned rooms for the night.

As in any other undiscovered tourist spot, the infrastructure for tourism has not been fully developed. On the other hand, this adds a certain charm to the adventure. Who cares if the ferry in Balingon (2 hours by bus from Cagayan de Oro, a major trading hub in North Mindanao) is half an hour late? You don’t have a deadline.

Island Born out of Fire: The most famous volcano in the island, Mount Hibok- Hibok, is almost at the center. It is still classified as active, having its last eruption in 1950. Rising at 1332 meters, it is the major attraction of Camiguin. Plan a whole day if you want to hike or trek. Start early- no later than 8:30 a.m. It takes 3-4 hours to reach the summit, little less on your descent. . One needs a government permit (US $8) to climb the volcano. Secure this in the capital town of Mabajao. It is highly recommended that one engage the services of a guide for the climb. Learn to haggle. Their fees range from US $10 35, so be wary of sweet talking locals. A newer trail, a better one, is located in Barangay Yumbing. Not only are the guides better mannered, the trail has an excellent forest cover. Look for Mr. Gorgonio Idago (or probably Hidalgo). With him and his two sons as your guides, expect to pay no more than US $10.

The climb to the volcano is quite a challenge. Marvel at the rain forest and feast your eyes in most-covered Kamagong