SIQUIJOR

Situated approximately 30 kilometers southeast of Negros Island, south of Cebu, and west of Bohol, Siquijor is a limestone rock island that remains relatively unvisited by Filipinos, often associated with the moniker “the Island of Fire” due to its mountain folk healers and spiritual practices.

This tranquil rural landscape offers intriguing bell towers, churches, caves, waterfalls, and hidden lagoons with crystal-clear waters, along with stretches of white sand beaches. However, the cleanliness of the beaches can vary depending on the wind direction, and the sea can be somewhat challenging to access due to rocks, algae, and shallow waters. Excellent inland roads allow you to explore this hilly island in about 3 hours, whether by motorbike or in an air-conditioned car.

Coco Grove Resort stands out as the largest and finest resort on the island. Considering that their rate includes breakfast and their facilities encompass swimming pools, air-conditioned cars for tours, and organized trips to Apo Island for exceptional snorkeling (with a minimum of 15 participants), their pricing is highly competitive. Most other resorts on the island have fewer than 10 rooms.

One of the challenges is that Siquijor can only be reached by ferry unless you opt for a chartered helicopter. Ferry schedules are often unreliable and weather-dependent. There’s a daily Ocean Jet ferry departing from Cebu at 1 pm and arriving in Siquijor at 8:20 am. Additionally, there’s a night bus service between Cebu City and Siquijor (approximately 4-5 hours). Apekop, a banka-type boat, plies the route between Larena and Tagbilaran, while Ocean Jet also operates this route but departs from Siquijor Pier. Regular schedules are available from Dumaguete, with Ocean Jet offering the fastest ferry service (45 minutes) and roro taking about 1.5 hours, with Montenegro being the most reliable option among various companies.

Essentially, there are no additional regular activities beyond the ones described below. A 2/3-day package typically includes:

Day 1: Upon your arrival at Dumaguete Airport, one of our representatives will be there to greet you. From the airport, you will be transported in a private, air-conditioned car to the pier, which is just a 15-minute drive away. At the pier, you will board the ferry to Siquijor Island. The ferry ride to Siquijor Pier on Siquijor Island usually takes about 1.5 hours, but it’s only 45 minutes if you opt for the Ocean Jet ferry. Upon arrival at Siquijor Pier, another representative will meet you and drive you to your tropical garden resort, which boasts 800 meters of pristine white sand beach right in front for you to enjoy.

Day 2: After savoring breakfast with a view of the turquoise sea, you should be ready by 10 am with sun protection, swimwear, sandals or booties, and a sarong to cover your legs (for your visit to St. Isidore Church). Get ready for a day of exciting exploration on Siquijor Island, traveling comfortably in private transportation with an English-speaking guide.

You’ll begin by witnessing the 4-century-old Balete Tree (or Banyan Tree), believed by locals to be inhabited by spirits and a source of water for the village. Next, you’ll visit the St. Isidore Church and Convent, constructed by Spanish priests in 1884 in Lazi. It’s not only the largest but also one of the oldest convents in Asia and is recognized as a National Historical Landmark.

Around 11:30 am, you’ll have the opportunity to refresh and swim at the Cambugahay three-level waterfalls, where you’ll also enjoy lunch. We recommend bringing throw-over clothing, as there are no changing rooms at the falls. After lunch, your itinerary includes a visit to the Butterfly Farm, a trek to the forest peak of Mt. Bandilaan, and an exploration of the Cantabon Cave. Please wear sandals with good grip, as the cave entrance can be small and muddy/slippery. Before returning to your resort around 4 pm, you’ll also visit St. Francis of Assisi Church and Bell Tower, the island’s first parish church, built in 1783.

Day 3: Enjoy your breakfast. Depending on the departure time of your domestic flight, make preparations for check-out, and then take a private transfer back the same way you arrived.