Siquijor Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Siquijor Island with this comprehensive travel guide, featuring a list of must-visit attractions, best things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Siquijor

Nestled in the Visayas region of the Philippines, Siquijor is a small island with a big personality. Known as the “Island of Fire,” its mystique comes from age-old beliefs in witchcraft and sorcery. Siquijor is also praised for its natural beauty and idyllic charm. With an area of just 343 square kilometers and a population of around 100,000, the island remains unspoiled by commercialization. Crystal clear waters, secluded beaches, and friendly locals make a trip to Siquijor a must-do for any adventurous traveler.

List of Places to Visit in Siquijor

Here is a list of must-visit attractions in Siquijor:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • St. Francis de Assisi Church: Built-in 1783, the parish church of Siquijor is one of the oldest churches in the Philippines. Its bell tower served as a watchtower during the Spanish colonial era.
  • Balete Tree: A natural wonder that is said to house spirits, the Balete Tree is centuries-old and has become a popular tourist attraction.
  • Capilay Spring Park: A popular spot for picnics and swimming, Capilay Spring Park is a natural spring surrounded by lush greenery. It’s also a historical site that served as a battleground during World War II.

Natural Attractions of Siquijor: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Salagdoong Beach: Pristine waters, white sand, and towering cliffs make Salagdoong Beach a must-visit for any beach lover.
  • Cambugahay Falls: With its turquoise blue water and cascading beauty, Cambugahay Falls is a well-known attraction for swimming and cliff jumping.
  • Guiwanon Spring Park: Located in the town of Larena, Guiwanon Spring Park is a mangrove sanctuary that allows visitors to explore the beauty and biodiversity of mangrove ecosystems.
  • Mount Bandilaan Nature Park: A trek to the top of Mount Bandilaan, which is the highest peak on the island, offers breathtaking views of the island.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Siquijor

Siquijor is perfect for adventure lovers who enjoy hiking and biking. Here are some of the top trails to explore:

  • Cang-apa Trail: A 3.5-kilometer hike that leads to the highest peak of Siquijor, Cang-apa Trail offers scenic views of the island’s mountains and forests.
  • Guiwahon Trail: Guiwahon Trail is a 2-kilometer hike that takes you through a forest of towering trees and offers views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Circumferential Road: The Circumferential Road offers stunning views of the island’s coastline and is perfect for a leisurely bike ride.

Best Things to Do in Siquijor: Activities and Tours

Siquijor offers plenty of exciting activities and tours to explore its natural wonders. Here are some top activities:

  • Island-Hopping: Explore the nearby islands of Apo, Sumilon, and Pescador on a day trip.
  • Snorkeling: Discover the vibrant marine life and coral reefs at the island’s top snorkeling spots such as Salagdoong Beach and Tambisan Reef.
  • Scuba diving: Siquijor is becoming famous for its diving sites, which include the Marine Sanctuary of Tubod and Sunken Island.
  • Firefly watching: Take a nighttime tour to see fireflies light up the trees along the riverbanks.
  • Motorbike tour: Rent a motorbike and explore the island’s hidden gems at your own pace.

Week-Long Itinerary for Siquijor

Here’s a proposed Siquijor itinerary for a week:

Day 1: Check into your hotel and visit the St. Francis de Assisi Church, then head to the Balete tree, and cool down at the Cambugahay Falls.

Day 2: Rent a motorbike and explore the island’s beaches, such as Salagdoong Beach and Paliton Beach, and visit Capilay Spring Park, where you can have a picnic with the locals.

Day 3: Discover the beauty of Guiwanon Spring Park, then hike the Cang-apa Trail to see the island’s stunning landscapes from above.

Day 4: Have a relaxing day at the resort or one of the island’s secluded beaches, such as Kagusuan Beach.

Day 5: Go on a scuba diving or snorkeling trip, where you can explore the island’s rich marine life.

Day 6: Experience the firefly watching tour in the evening after exploring nearby islands such as Apo Island or Sumilon Island.

Day 7: Spend your last day enjoying the island, taking a refreshing swim at one of the beaches, or enjoying a relaxing massage and other spa treatments.

Food and Drink Scene of Siquijor

Siquijor has a wide range of foods and drinks to try. Here are some of the must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chicken inasal: Grilled chicken that is marinated in vinegar, garlic, lemongrass and spices
  • Budbud: A sweet and sticky rice cake served with freshly grated coconut
  • Seafood: Freshly caught seafood such as squid, clams, and shrimp are a must-try in Siquijor

Local Beverages

  • Coconut juice: Siquijor is known for its sweet and refreshing coconut juice, which is a must-try while on the island.
  • Pineapple shake: Delightful and refreshing, pineapple shake is one of the most popular beverages in Siquijor.

Where to Stay in Siquijor: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Siquijor has a range of accommodations, from beachfront resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are some of the top places to stay in Siquijor:

  • Coral Cay Resort: Located in San Juan, Coral Cay Resort is a luxurious beachfront resort that offers guests a range of facilities that include an outdoor pool and a restaurant.
  • Islandia Beach Resort: Located in the town of San Juan, Islandia Beach Resort is another great beachfront option that offers guests a range of amenities that include a restaurant, bar, and outdoor pool.
  • Glamping Siquijor: For a unique experience, Glamping Siquijor offers guests luxurious camping options with glamping tents outfitted with air-conditioning and high-quality mattresses.
  • JJ’s Backpackers Village: Located in the town of San Juan, JJ’s Backpackers Village offers budget-friendly accommodations that are perfect for backpackers.

What to Buy in Siquijor: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Siquijor is known for its local products and souvenirs. Here are some of the top items to bring home:

  • Fruits: Fresh fruits from Siquijor, such as lanzones, mangoes, and pineapples, make for great souvenirs to bring back home.
  • Hand-woven items: Hand-woven products such as bags, hats, and mats make for unique and authentic gifts.
  • Bracelets and necklaces made of seashells or colored stones are trendy items among tourists.

Local Culture and Customs of Siquijor

Siquijor is a small island that has a rich cultural heritage, which includes belief in witchcraft and sorcery. Visitors should respect the local practices and beliefs and avoid any disrespectful or insensitive behavior.

Best Time to Visit Siquijor

The best time to visit Siquijor is between November and May, when the weather is dry, and the sea is calm. The rainy season is between June and October, which can bring typhoons and heavy rain, which can limit outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Siquijor

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and traditions of the island.
  • Engage with the locals to learn more about their customs and beliefs.
  • Observe proper swimming etiquette while visiting the island’s beaches.

Don’t:

  • Do not disrespect the local beliefs and customs of the island.
  • Do not take any pictures of someone without their consent.
  • Do not litter on the island’s beaches and natural attractions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Siquijor

Siquijor is generally a safe place, with low crime rates. However, visitors should take precautions while exploring the natural attractions and remote areas of the island.

Health in Siquijor

Visitors should take precautions to protect against mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever and malaria. It is also important to practice good hygiene and drink bottled water to avoid getting sick.

Getting to Siquijor: Transportation Options and Logistics

Siquijor is accessible by air and sea.

Airports Near Siquijor

The nearest airport to Siquijor is the Dumaguete Airport. From there, visitors can take a 30-minute ferry ride to Siquijor.

Bus Stations Near Siquijor

There are daily buses from Dumaguete to Larena and Siquijor town, where the main port is located.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a ferry to Siquijor from neighboring islands such as Cebu, Bohol, and Negros.

How to Get Around in Siquijor

The most popular way to get around Siquijor is by renting a motorbike or scooter. Visitors can also hire a tricycle or take a bus to get around the island.

Where to Go Next from Siquijor: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are plenty of amazing destinations near Siquijor that visitors can explore, including:

  • Dumaguete: Known as the “City of Gentle People,” Dumaguete offers visitors a range of activities that include exploring the historical landmarks, enjoying the local food scene, and visiting the nearby nature attractions.
  • Apo Island: An hour away from Siquijor, Apo Island is famous for diving and snorkeling, where visitors can spot sea turtles and exotic marine life.
  • Bohol: Known for its Chocolate Hills and tarsiers, Bohol is just a short ferry ride away from Siquijor.

Conclusion

Siquijor is a beautiful and charming island that offers visitors the opportunity to explore stunning natural attractions, experience local culture and traditions, and enjoy exciting outdoor adventures. With its unspoiled beaches, crystal clear waters, and friendly locals, Siquijor is the perfect destination for any adventurous traveler.

Sunset Sunset San Isidro Labrador Convent San Isidro Labrador Convent The century-old Enchanted Balete Tree The century-old Enchanted Balete Tree Cambugahay Falls Cambugahay Falls