Siquijor is an island province in the central Visayas region, considered one of the smaller provinces in the Philippines. The first Spanish explorers who saw the island shining from a distance named it “Isla del Fuego” (Island of Fire). It turned out that the “fire” referred to large groups of fireflies that gathered by the sea at night, illuminating the shoreline and creating the illusion of fire.

The mystique of the island is shrouded in mystery and enchantment. In hushed conversations, people speak of Siquijor as a place of sorcerers and witches. However, all talk of sorcery, healers, mythical creatures, and supernatural beings ceases when you arrive on the island. Instead, you’ll be enchanted by its white sandy beaches, unexplored caves, diverse marine life, pristine water springs, stunning waterfalls, secluded forests, and breathtaking sunsets.

In Siquijor, there are several impressive caves, with Cantabon Cave being the most famous and sought-after by cave enthusiasts. The cave is adorned with stalactites and features an underground river flowing through it, with a small pool that’s perfect for a quick dip. Exploring the cave, which is approximately 300 meters long, typically takes about two and a half hours. Visitors are required to have a guide with them at all times while inside the cave. It is highly recommended to wear sturdy shoes with excellent grip and bring appropriate gear when exploring the cave.

Timelapse Traveler

To reach Siquijor Island from Manila, you can take a one-hour flight to Dumaguete City. From Dumaguete City, you can catch a ferry to Siquijor Island, which usually takes around 45 seconds to cross. Once you arrive in Siquijor Town Proper, you can hire a motorcycle to Barangay Cantabon, where Cantabon Cave is located.

Another option is to fly to Bohol and then take a direct ferry to Siquijor.

From Cebu, you can also take a ferry to Siquijor, which involves a stopover at Bohol before continuing to Siquijor.

These transportation options will help you get to Siquijor and explore its attractions, including Cantabon Cave.

The multi-tiered waterfalls of Kambugahay Falls are indeed one of the most famous attractions in Siquijor. Located near the town of Lazi, these falls offer a magnificent natural spectacle. A short descent down stone steps, surrounded by lush green lawns, reveals the crystal-clear waters of the natural spring flowing from the mountains above, forming several pools at different heights. The emerald-green, translucent waters of the lagoon are inviting enough for swimming, so be sure to bring a change of clothes for a refreshing dip.

Kambugahay Falls are approximately 2 kilometers from Lazi town. The road to the falls is filled with so many signs that there is no question of getting lost. There are motorcycles available for rent, and they come with a driver.

(Mt. Bandilaan) Park and Butterfly Sanctuary

Located at the foot of Mt. Bandilaan are the national park and butterfly sanctuary, which is one of the largest butterfly collections in Asia. The butterfly sanctuary at Bandilaan boasts several extremely rare butterflies not only from the Philippines but from all over the world. Trekking to the summit of Mt. Bandilaan, the highest point in Siquijor, is also a good option. A bit higher up, there’s a metal lookout tower that offers panoramic views of the island province. Along the way to the top, there are cross stations that lead to the summit.

Usually, it takes about an hour from the city to Lazi. Public transportation like Jeepneys clogs the path, and if you want something a bit more adventurous, you can opt for a ride behind the local motorcycle called “habal-habal” and ask the driver to take you to the park.

The local treasure in the town of Enrique Villanueva is the centuries-old Cang-Isok House. Said to be the oldest structure in Siquijor, the house is of the typical “bahay-kubo” (nipa hut) style made of bamboo and palm leaves, but with one difference—it is built on stilts, which is not typical for the region. Despite being humble, neglected, and weathered by the merciless winds coming from the sea and the waves crashing on the shore, Cang-Isok House still stands firmly by the beach. It makes you wonder, is it some kind of magic that keeps this house standing?

The ideal fishing village of San Juan takes pride in one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, Paliton Beach. Located in a secluded and secretive spot, there aren’t many places to sleep in the area. Quiet and serene, except for the chirping of birds and crickets at night. A white, wide, endless beach dotted with swaying coconut palm trees in the gentle breeze, a stunning sunset, crystal-clear waters, all these are the ingredients of a blessed vacation. Paliton Beach is also a paradise for marine life with a wide variety of sea creatures.

From the city of Dumaguete, take a ferry directly to the main port of Siquijor. The town of San Juan is the next stop after Siquijor town proper. From there, you can take a motorcycle or tricycle that will take you to Paliton Beach and around the city in general.

Do you want to see the central coral diversity of the island and various unique and diverse marine creatures? It’s better to visit Tubod Marine Sanctuary, located in the southwestern part of the island, for snorkeling, scuba diving, or kayaking. In the sanctuary’s seven domes, there are more than 170 species of corals, giant clams, sea turtles, and other creatures.