Camiguin forms part of a geopolitical grouping of provinces comprising Region X or Northern Mindanao. In terms of land area, Camiguin is only around 2 percent of Region X.

Camiguin Island is said to be "born of fire." It has seven volcanoes unmatched anywhere else in Southeast Asia. Volcanic eruptions and land movements have created this spectacular island full of natural wonders and historical riches.

As an island of varied ecosystem, Camiguin’s uniqueness lies in its varied terrain, pristine natural environment and rustic setting. In fact, the province has been identified by the Department of Tourism as one of the top 25 tourist destinations in the Philippines, and No. 7 diving spot in the world.

Camiguin almost defies description. It is a tiny island of lush forests, volcanic splendor, eternal hot and cold natural springs, pristine patches of black and white beaches, majestic waterfalls, exotic marine life, blue-ridge mountains, serene surroundings, idyllic lifestyle; it has a glorious past, and is inhabited with jovial people. The truth is, Camiguin is best experienced than described, as one gets enchanted by her mystical charm. It really has amazing natural resources and a peaceful atmosphere that stir and baffle the minds of everyone.

Camiguin is believed to be one of the Philippines' most beautiful islands - a virtual paradise - as it allows visitors to experience a sample of untouched serenity in its entirety. Locked in the eternal embrace of the sea, Camiguin continues its simple existence sheltered from and unfazed by the virulent pressures of today's accelerated lifestyles.

Camiguin generally has good weather with seasonal rain showers enhancing its fresh green environment. Fine weather is guaranteed from April to June, while the coolest is from November to January.

To get to Camiguin, one has to travel one-and-a-half hours from Cagayan de Oro City to Balingoan, Misamis Oriental, and take any of the hourly scheduled ferries across the channels of Mindanao Sea, which dock in either ports of Guinsiliban or Benoni.

There is a regular sea and air transportation from Cebu to Camiguin and vice versa. Once in Camiguin, one can go around the 64-kilometer circumferential road in just one-hour-and-a-half time through public or private transportation.

The people of Camiguin are friendly, fun-loving, and very hospitable. Camiguingnons are also hardworking. Their main occupation is fishing and farming. Coconut is a major product. There are plantations of abaca, rice, mangoes, lanzones and other fruit trees. Small cottage industries are increasing in number to accommodate the influx of visitors. Cebuano is the main language while a few speak Kinamiguin, an ancient dialect. Nearly everyone speaks English fairly.

Here are some of Camiguin’s rare and unique tourist attractions:

SUNKEN CEMETERY

A large white cross marks a cemetery swept into the sea by Old Vulcan Daan's eruption in 1871. It’s a perfect place to watch the glorious sunset. It’s also ideal for snorkeling and diving. An annual fluvial procession is held by townsfolk in honor of the sunken graves of their forefathers and as a thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest.

KATIBAWASAN FALLS

A beautiful, clear stream of water cascading 70 meters into a rock pool surrounded by ground orchids, wild ferns, trees and boulders. Its cold water provides a refreshing summer splash to all bathers.

ARDENT HOT SPRING

In the heart of the island bubbles this mineral pool with water around 400oC. Vapor rises from the heated waters that run down the vents of the dormant Hibok-Hibok volcano. The springs are ideal to bathe in at night, fanned by cool mountain air. they have therapeutic effects. Picnic huts and tables are available in the beautifully landscaped gardens and there is a restaurant on site. It is 6 kilometers southwest of Mambajao.

MT. HIBOK-HIBOK

Its approach is via the base of Barangay Tagdo in Mambajao. It is a volcano 1,250 meters high above sea level. Its slopes are challenges/barriers for professional climbers as they trek and maneuver on loose rocks and boulders towards the peak. At the zenith, there is a crater-like lake and steam outlets where one can have a clear panoramic view of the entire island and the Bohol Province during sunny clear days.

WHITE ISLAND

An uninhabited white sandbar where the view of towering Mt. Hibok-Hibok and Old Volcano reflects the grandeur of Camiguin. It is reached within 10 minutes through light water transport from anywhere in Yumbing, Mambajao area.

JICDUP SHOAL
(DIVE SPOT)

Lies approximately 2 nautical miles from the shore of Balbagon, Mambajao. The seabed rises, forming a shoal about 10 hectares in size and hosting a variety of aquatic life. It is one of the best dive spots in Camiguin Island, teeming with fishes of different species and shapes/sizes. It has excellent visibility and is best for underwater photographs, and novice divers.

BURIAS SHOAL
(DIVE SPOT)

Slightly smaller than Jicdup, Burias is among the favorite spots for high adventure seeking divers. It hauls the thrill-seeking divers to the shoal to see schools of jacks, tuna, mackerels and barracudas. A verdant black coral covered bottom is also one of its treasures. Diving here can be difficult; however, the little effort spent fining against the current is worth the excitement.•

www.camiguin.gov.ph