Tourist spots in Siquijor Island Philippines
Siquijor Island Philippines is a quiet, laid back island with incredible beaches, a rich history of magic and topaz blue waterfalls. The island is steeped in a history of magic with plenty of tales of witches and shaman that lived in the mountains.
I wish we could have witnessed some witches and shaman in action! It was also called ‘Isla de Fuega’ or ‘The Island of Fire’ due to the overwhelming number of fireflies that light up the night sky. It’s also sometimes called ‘The Island of witches’ which could not be more magical! Here’s everything you need for all the tourist spots in Siquijor island Philippines.
The entire place sounded like magic. Quite simply, I was sold.
Siquijor is a beautiful, quiet little island filled with witches, fireflies, red tricycles, waterfalls and idyllic beaches. It’s definitely worth a trip to Siquijor Island, Philippines. There aren’t huge amounts of hotels on the island so check early and book in plenty of time.
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Quick links for Siquijor Island Philippines
| Here’s everything I use when I travel abroad: Tours – Compare tour prices on Viator and Get Your Guide Hotels – I always use Booking as the more hotels I book, I get a higher Genius discount. I also compare prices on Expedia. E-Sims – purchase an e-sim with Airalo on your phone so you can make calls and have mobile data abroad! There’s no need to remove your current sim card! Travel insurance – don’t ever go on vacation without travel insurance, you never know when you might need it! Travel essentials – have a look at a full list of travel essentials that I use, including the best power bank! |
You might be interested in my other blog posts on the Philippines:
The Island of Fire: Siquijor Island, The Philippines
Definitely one of my favourite places in the Philippines and a total hidden gem!
Language
Cebuano. English is widely used though.
Currency
Philippino Peso (PhP).
£1 = 71 PHP
$1 = 55 USD
Mode of payment
Most places will accept cash. Ideally, bring cash with you, there are ATMs on the island but there arent loads. It might be better for you to withdraw money before your visit.
Why is Siquijor called the Island of Fire?
I love how the Island of fire got its nickname. Due to the huge number of fireflies that call the island home and sparkle at night. The fireflies light up the night sky and it’s so beautiful!
What is Siquijor known for?
Witches, magic, fireflies, waterfalls and beaches.
Filled with incredible beaches and topaz blue waterfalls, Siquijor remains a tranquil, laid-back island with a rich history steeped in magic, boasting tales of witches and shamans dwelling in the mountains. How I longed to witness the mystic arts in action! Known as ‘Isla de Fuego’ or ‘The Island of Fire’ due to the abundant fireflies illuminating the night sky, the island exuded an enchanting atmosphere.
Undoubtedly, it sounded like a place straight out of a fairy tale, and without a doubt, I was completely captivated. With its witches, fireflies, red tricycles, turquoise blue waterfalls, and idyllic beaches, Siquijor truly is a beautiful, serene paradise. Due to the limited number of hotels on the island, make sure to book your hotel and accommodation well in advance. Here are all my travel tips, I hope you find it helpful!
Is it worth travelling to Siquijor Island of Fire?
Yes, yes, 1000 times yes! It’s literally incredible. A hidden gem, the quiet neighbour of Bohol, you should absolutely visit Siquijor. If you want to see a laid back island full of myths, legends, magic and mystical tales, you should visit!
How long do I need to Siquijor?
If you’re tight on time in Siquijor, you should spend a minimum of 3-5 days, but you could definitely spend longer here. I know people tend to use Siquijor as a little retreat and stay for longer periods of time.
How to get to Siquijor?
Siquijor’s small airport doesn’t have many flights, so there are a few ways to get there.
Dumaguete – Siquijor
It might best to fly to Dumaguete, a city on Negros Island and get the ferry across which takes about 1.5 hours.
Bohol – Siquijor
Alternatively, get a ferry across from one of the other islands, the ferry from Bohol takes 2 hours. I flew to Dumaguete, and then got a ferry across. On the toway back, I decided to travel to Bohol and Panglao. It takes 2-3 hours and costs around £6 / $8 USD.
Cebu – Siquijor
You can also take a direct ferry from Cebu to Siquijor
Cebu to Siquijor Ferry 2023
Daily – 8:00 AM
Departure from: Cebu City Pier 1
Travel Time: 3-4 Hours
Siquijor to Cebu Ferry 2023
Daily 12:30 PM
Departure from: Larena Pier
Travel Time: 3-4 Hours
How to travel around Siquijor Island, Philippines
Hire a Scooter
You can rent a scooter in Siquijor for as little as 250 PHP per day (£2.50 / $4.50 USD) with a full tank of petrol. Which in my mind is an absolute bargain!
Hire a local tricycle taxi
You’ll have to haggle with the local taxi drivers, but a local tricycle can cost anywhere between 200-400 PHP for a 45 minute ride ( £3.50 / $4.50 ).
Siquijor Island Philippines Tour
There are plenty of excellent tours that will take your around Siquijor Island so you don’t have to fret or fuss. They’ll take you to all the best spots and you can sit back, relax and enjoy! There are day tours and week long tours for you to choose from!
Siquijor Island Philippines map
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Tourist spots in Siquijor Island Philippines
There’s loads of things to do in Siquijor Island, despite it being small, it is packed with loads of things to do and other tourist attractions! Have a look below to see what to do on this enchanting island. Here are the best tourist spots on Siquijor Island Philippines.
Siquijor Island Waterfalls: Cambugahay Falls
Entrance fee – 20 pesos
Parking – donation required, we paid about 50 pesos
The topaz coloured waters of Cambugahay falls were definitely the highlight of Siquijor for me. I cannot recommend it highly enough. Yes, the waters are really this blue. It’s arguably the best waterfall on Siquijor Island -at least I think so. Cambugahay Falls is most famous for its incredibly blue waters, tiered levels, and multiple tiers of waterfalls. All of these natural wonders are surrounded by luscious jungle rainforest; think giant green palms and thick plants and plenty of leaves.
There are no facilities here, so don’t expect toilets or anywhere to store your belongings. We kept an eye on our bags most of the time and we didn’t have any issues.
Other costs
You will need money if you want food, access to the rope swings, rubber tubes and the bamboo rafts.
- Food – The delicious BBQ honey fried bananas were about 15 pesos.
- The tarzan rope swings – they are so much fun and cost 50 pesos per person (unlimited amount of swings).
- Rubber tubes – 50 pesos per person
- Raft – 50 pesos per person
Lugnason Falls
Lugnason Falls is another alternative to Cambugahay falls with similarly coloured waters of blue lagoons for you to swim in. Located near San Juan, this is the perfect day trip for you to swim, relax and maybe pick up some of the street food the local vendors are selling.
Other costs
You will need money if you want food, access to the rope swings, rubber tubes and the bamboo rafts.
- Food – The delicious BBQ honey fried bananas were about 15-20 pesos.
- The tarzan rope swings – they are so much fun and cost 50-100 pesos per person (unlimited amount of swings).
Healing and Wellness tour – the Siquijor Witches & healing
As the island is well known for the famous Siquijor witches, shaman, healers and magic, it’s important to learn more about the Bolo-bolo -a form of traditional healing. And this has to be one of the best Siquijor island tours you’ll get!
Head to a Hut of Restoration (called a Balay Pahauli) and they can offer a number of different healing and wellness treatments for you. The Bolo-bolo healing is a technique used by a local healer; the sick person is given a glass of water with a rate stone in it and a bagacay (a bamboo straw), and the healer blows the straw around the sick person to clear the air of negative energy and evil spells. The stone absorbs all the negative energy and puts it into the water, and the dirty ‘negative’ water is poured away and replaced with clean water. Neat, huh?
Paliton Beach, Siquijor Island
Entrance fee – none
Parking – anywhere on the pathway outside
Quite simply, the beaches in Siquijor are stunning, and this place is the best beach on the island and perfect for lounging. We spent the day here snorkelling with tropical starfish and sipping on fresh coconuts. Bring food! There were not lots of food vendors on the south side of the beach, if you climb up to the north part of the beach you might find some vendors that sell snacks.
Located on the west side of Siquijor Island Philippines is the most popular place for the sunset on the island. The vibes are good, it’s not too touristy and generally very relaxed.
Otherwise, bask in the most beautiful beach on this island. it’s stunning!
It has beautiful blue waters, fine white sand and towering coconut trees, all of which add to that strong island vibe and you wont regret spending the day here. It is often referred to as the “Siquijor’s Mini Boracay” by locals. On occasion, you’ll find sand sculptures carved by locals, and you can bet you’ll find people taking selfies with them.
Sunset at this beach is divine; sit down with a drink or a mini picnic and watch the sky turn pink, yellow, orange, gold, purple and blue until it fades away into darkness. It has fairly shallow waters, meaning that Paliton Beach is an excellent spot for snorkelling. Make sure you visit during high tides for the best experience.
Century Old Balete Tree
Entrance fee – 5 pesos
Parking – anywhere outside
This huge 400 year old tree sits on the side of the road for passers by to see and is known for its magic and fairy tale-like creatures. At the base of the trunk you can dip your feet into a spring where tiny fish will eat the dead skin off for a natural foot spa. It’s a little bit ticklish, but it is totally fun! Not too shabby, right?
I was told that the Ancient Balete Tree is full of legends and mythical creatures. The Balete Trees are recognized as the home for the enchanting and fantastical creatures during the night time and after the sun sets. Certain folk tales and myths suggest that these creatures perform their rituals in the vicinity of the trees as an expression of reverence or gratitude for sanctuary and guardianship. Beings such as dwarves, horse demons, and fairies, known as elves, tikbalangs, and diwatas respectively, are counted among the fabled creatures that inhabit the Balete Trees.
Situated in the barangay of Campalanas in Lazi, this ancient 400-year-old Balete tree is regarded as the most ancient and grandest in the province of Siquijor. What truly lends it an air of mysticism is the presence of an underground natural spring that flows directly beneath the magical trees. The local community remains unaware of the source and purpose of this enigmatic water flow, yet they confidently affirm its purity and safety. The refreshing spring water cascades from the tree into a specially crafted pool, where a multitude of fish gracefully glide through the waters. This captivating spot welcomes all visitors, though donations for the preservation of the site are strongly encouraged.
Salagdoong Beach
Entrance fee – 30 pesos per person
Parking – 20 pesos
If you like cliff jumping or slides that wizz you straight into the ocean, then this is the spot for you! The perfect spot for adrenaline junkies and beach goers alike. The beach is not quite as nice as Paliton beach, but it is still beautiful and there is a great cafe that serves excellent local food.
TIP: go at sunset to watch the sky turn dazzling colours.
If you’re keen to stay in this area, there’s Salagdoong Beach Resort in Siquijor that you will find is the perfect resort stay.
The Butterfly Sanctuary
A hidden gem in eco-tourism dedicated to nature conservation for natural species of butterflies in Siquijor; proceed along a narrow path leading to the butterfly house, also showcasing the most vibrant flowers and butterflies indigenous to Siquijor Island.
The goal is to increase the butterfly population on the island. There are many cocoons, plenty of exotic flowers and you’ll be able to spot lots of butterflies going from flower to flower, and there are red dragonflies and stick insects.
Entrance fee: 100 pesos p.p.
Mount Bandilaan Park
Entrance fee – 100 pesos per person
Mount Bandilaan is an excellent national park for adventure; you can hike, explore caves and if you’re feeling up to it, you can climb to the top of the mountain for 360 degree views of the island.
There are plenty of other places in Siquijor but these are the top recommendations. Drop me a message and let me know if you visit any of them!
Scuba Diving in Siquijor
Siquijor Island Philippines has an impressive 23 dive sites, becoming an ideal spot for scuba divers. These sites are teeming with thriving corals, soft and hard, and abundant macro life and it transforms well during the day and night.nPaliton Wall, is a vibrant dive site and descends from 7m to 40m. This wall has soft corals and fans, boasting an impressive overhang and even a cave! The visibility at this site is always fairly good. Magnificent frogfish, patterned ghost pipefish, and Spanish dancers are among the local residents divers can encounter.
On the other hand, Tonga Point presents itself as one of the more demanding diving spots. The reef begins with a gentle slope down to 12m before plunging into a precipitous drop-off reaching 65m. Within this expanse, divers can encounter leather corals, soft corals, fans, sponges, and the lively hues of fire hydroids. The further down you go into greater depths, you may have the chance to witness schools of barracuda, graceful turtles, and alluring blue-spotted rays.n
Other places you might want to consider visiting.
Siquijor Church
Visit the St. Francis de Assisi Church (Siquijor Church): A historic church by Siquijor port known for its beautiful architecture and and plays a key part in the history of Siquijor Island.
Lazi Church and Convent
Explore the Lazi Church and Convent! Discover this unusual (but stunning!) Baroque-style church and the adjacent convent, considered the largest and oldest in the Visayas province.
Kagusuan Beach
Relax at Kagusuan Beach: This beach comes with some interesting shaped boulders that makes for great and unusual pictures, gorgeous white sand, clear turquoise waters, and peaceful ambiance.
Cantabon Cave
Venture into Cantabon Cave. This spooky looking cave is unique due to its fascinating and odd-looking rock formations and underground streams.
Best places to stay: Siquijor Island hotels
Siquijor has come a long way in recent times in regards to hotels. Originally, there were a few hostels and a couple of mid range hotels, but as the popularity of this island thrives, you’ll find there’s plenty more choice! But you’ll be pleased to know that it’s still fairly budget friendly, given that the Siquijor Island resorts and luxury hotels start at £69 / $89 USD per night. Have a look at the best hotels listed below.
Best Hotels in Siquijor & Siquijor Island Resorts
Have a look at the below price matrix for some of the best hotels on the island, whatever your budget is, you’ll find something excellent! Coco Grove Siquijor seems to be a very popular one, and is a recent build too.
Best hostels in Siquijor
There are so many hostels in Siquijor that are excellent, well designed, rustic and have incredible views. Whether you’re after a social hostel or a peaceful laid back spot, Siquijor has plenty of options to choose from.
Have a look at the below hostels, they are highly rated and stunning!
Lazy Lizard Hostel – from £10 / $13 USD.
Fable Hostel – £15 / $19 USD
Sand 1 Hostel – £23 / $29 USD
| Budget hotels | Mid range hotels | Luxury hotels |
| Aventura Bed & Breakfast – This is simply stunning and on the coast just by San Juan! I can’t believe it starts from £12 / $16 USD. | Nakabalo Guesthouse and Restaurant – this is a gorgeous retreat in San Juan and starts from £41 / $54 USD – an absolute steal if you ask me. | Coco Grove Beach Resort, Siquijor Island – this is possibly the fanciest place on the island, and yet somehow is still very reasonably priced starting at £63 / $81 USD per night. |
| Thornton’s Seaview Cafe & Guest house – this is a great budget stay, starting at £15 / $19 USD. | Mandala Tribe Treehouses – these are just gorgeous, wooden & bamboo treehouses. Rustic, chic and charming, these start from £41 / $54 USD. | Mandala Tribe treehouses – this jungle hut is an excellent pick and super photogenic too! It’s only 900m from the beach and prices start from £69 / $89 USD. |
Is Siquijor safe to visit?
Yes! I certainly felt like it. The locals are very welcoming and laid back. It’s a fairly quiet island and you’ll find lots of friendly faces here! If you’re looking for a social vibe, head to some of the hostels here. They have very fun, open communal areas where you’ll be able to meet a lot of people.
Is Siquijor safe to visit for solo female travellers?
Yes. I did travel with my partner, but there were times where I went out on my own and I felt super safe. It is a very laid back island, filled with relaxed locals and backpackers alike. Stay in one of the local hostels or some of the hotels. The food here is delicious!
When to go to Siquijor Island & the weather
Frankly, any time of year to go is a good time. The rainy season in Siquijor Island is from June to November, while the dry season spans from December to May. If you go during the rainy season, you’ll find fewer tourists and backpackers, but you will find cheaper prices. If you go during dry season, you’ll be treated to delightful weather.
Siquijor Island Philippines Weather in January:
- Weather in Celsius: 26-31°C (79-88°F)
- Number of rainy days: 7
Siquijor Island Philippines Weather in February:
- Weather in Celsius: 26-31°C (79-88°F)
- Number of rainy days: 6
Siquijor Island Philippines Weather in March:
- Weather in Celsius: 26-32°C (79-90°F)
- Number of rainy days: 6
Siquijor Island Philippines Weather in April:
- Weather in Celsius: 27-33°C (81-91°F)
- Number of rainy days: 6
Siquijor Island Philippines Weather in May:
- Weather in Celsius: 27-33°C (81-91°F)
- Number of rainy days: 10
Siquijor Island Philippines Weather in June:
- Weather in Celsius: 27-33°C (81-91°F)
- Number of rainy days: 12
Siquijor Island Philippines Weather in July:
- Weather in Celsius: 26-32°C (79-90°F)
- Number of rainy days: 12
Siquijor Island Philippines Weather in August:
- Weather in Celsius: 26-32°C (79-90°F)
- Number of rainy days: 13
Siquijor Island Philippines Weather in September:
- Weather in Celsius: 26-32°C (79-90°F)
- Number of rainy days: 13
Siquijor Island Philippines Weather in October:
- Weather in Celsius: 26-32°C (79-90°F)
- Number of rainy days: 12
Siquijor Island Philippines Weather in November:
- Weather in Celsius: 26-31°C (79-88°F)
- Number of rainy days: 10
Siquijor Island Philippines Weather in December:
- Weather in Celsius: 26-31°C (79-88°F)
- Number of rainy days: 8
Travel resources for your trip that are actually really handy!
Here’s everything I use when I travel abroad, I strongly advise you to have travel insurance, and the other recommendations are also super handy!
- Travel insurance – don’t ever go on vacation without travel insurance, you never know when you might need it!
- Tours – Compare tour prices on Viator and Get Your Guide
- Hotels – I always use Booking as the more hotels I book, I get a higher Genius discount. I also compare prices on Expedia.
- Airport transfers – I book through Viator or Kiwi Taxi.
- E-Sims – purchase an e-sim with Airalo on your phone so you can make calls and have mobile data abroad! There’s no need to remove your current sim card!
- Car rental – if you’re booking a car, I compare prices on Discover Cars.
- Travel essentials – have a look at a full list of travel essentials that I use, including the best powerbank!
That’s it! That’s my full guide to Siquijor, if you find it useful, let me know! I’d love to see you pictures!
You might be interested in my other blog posts on the Philippines:
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