Camiguin Mindanao, Philippines Travel Guide
Camiguin generally keeps pleasant temperatures, making it a comfortable destination year-round. Average daily temperatures typically range from 26°C (79°F) to 30°C (86°F). Expect consistently warm weather, good for beach activities and exploring natural springs.
The wet season usually runs from June to December. Heaviest rainfall occurs from July to October. The dry season spans January to May, with March and April being the driest months. During the wet season, rain showers often occur in the afternoon or evening, and may not last all day. Humidity levels stay high, averaging around 80-85%. This means the air often feels moist, especially during the rainy season. Choose lightweight, breathable clothing for comfort.
The Philippines faces typhoons, mainly from June to December. Camiguin generally faces less impact than northern regions, but strong rains and winds can occur. These conditions may disrupt ferry services, causing delays or cancellations. Always check local weather forecasts before and during your trip, especially if traveling during the low season.
Volcanic activity from Mount Hibok-Hibok is continuously monitored by PHIVOLCS. Visitors planning to hike Mount Hibok-Hibok or other volcanic areas should check current alerts and advisories from local authorities before setting out. Adhere to all safety guidelines. Camiguin does not have extreme temperatures, remaining warm year-round.
Monitor weather for travel disruptions.
Heavy rains, winds, possible ferry delays.
Check forecasts, listen to local advice.
Mt. Hibok-Hibok monitored by PHIVOLCS.
Check alerts before trekking volcanic areas.
Follow local authority guidelines.
Ideal weather, but expect crowds.
Best for diving, snorkeling, hiking.
Higher prices, more crowded attractions.
Most nationalities, including citizens of the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and European Union countries, get visa-free entry to the Philippines for varying periods. For instance, many Western passport holders can enter visa-free for up to 30 days. This entry needs a valid passport and a confirmed onward or return ticket. For stays longer than the visa-free period, or for nationalities not eligible for visa-free entry, you must obtain a visa from a Philippine embassy or consulate in your home country before traveling. The application process typically includes submitting forms, photographs, and supporting documents. Check the official website of the Philippine embassy or consulate in your country for detailed instructions specific to your nationality and purpose of visit. Start the visa application process well before your planned departure date. Online services like IVisa or VisaHQ can assist with applications.
Gather these documents before you travel: Passport validity for at least six (6) months beyond your intended period of stay. Return/Onward Ticket proof. Accommodation Proof (advisable to have proof of your first night's booking). Sufficient Funds (ability to show funds to cover expenses, though rarely checked). Make both physical and digital copies of all your important documents. Store them separately from the originals. This assists in case of loss or theft.
6+ months validity from entry date.
Proof of departure from the Philippines.
Proof for initial nights (recommended).
Capacity to cover your trip expenses.
If your nationality needs one, apply early.
Plan your budget carefully for a comfortable trip to Camiguin.
The local currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP). PHP banknotes come in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1,000. Coins include 1, 5, 10, and 25 centavos, along with 1, 5, 10, and 20 pesos. You can exchange major foreign currencies like USD, EUR, and GBP at banks or licensed money changers. These services appear in Mambajao, the island's capital. Exchange rates in Camiguin might be slightly less favorable than in larger cities. Consider exchanging a portion of your funds before arriving on the island, or at a major airport.
Tipping is not strictly mandatory in Camiguin but is appreciated for good service. It recognizes helpfulness and goes a long way for locals. Consider leaving 5-10% of the bill in restaurants. For tour guides/drivers, PHP 100-300 per person per day shows appreciation for excellent service. For hotel staff, PHP 50-100 for porters or housekeepers. Rounding up the fare for tricycle drivers is a common practice.
Prices for attractions vary. A tricycle ride for a short distance costs PHP 10-30 per person. Scooter rental is PHP 300-500 daily. Ferry from Balingoan to Benoni is PHP 180-250. White Island boat fee is PHP 500-600 (round trip, up to 6 people) plus PHP 50 environmental fee per person. Mantigue Island boat fee is PHP 750 (round trip, up to 6 people) plus PHP 75 environmental fee per person. Entrance fees for falls and springs are PHP 50-100 per person. Sunken Cemetery environmental fee is PHP 50 per person (snorkeling extra).
Prioritize your health and safety during your trip to Camiguin. Review these recommendations before you travel.
Ensure MMR, Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis, Varicella, Polio, and annual flu shots are current.
Consult a travel health clinic for Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Hepatitis B, Japanese Encephalitis, and Rabies, based on your travel plans.
Drink only bottled or purified water. Avoid ice unless source is known. Eat well-cooked food. Wash hands often.
Traveler's diarrhea is a common issue. Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne illness, appears in tropical areas. Sunburn and heatstroke may also occur due to intense UV.
Use Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin during the day. Wear long sleeves and pants in the evenings. Sleep under mosquito nets if needed. Use high-SPF Sunscreen and reapply often. Wear a Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Clean and disinfect any cuts or scrapes right away. Carry a basic First aid kit with antiseptic wipes, bandages, and antibiotic cream.
Camiguin has a provincial hospital (Camiguin General Hospital in Mambajao) and rural health units. Pharmacies are also available.
For serious emergencies, evacuation to larger hospitals in Cagayan de Oro or Manila may be needed. Insubuy offers medical coverage.
Highly recommended for medical emergencies, evacuation, trip cancellation, and lost luggage. Check World Nomads or SafetyWing.
Camiguin is one of the safest provinces in the Philippines, with very low crime rates. Most incidents involving tourists are petty theft. Maintain awareness of your belongings, especially in public markets or on crowded transport. There are no specific "dangerous" neighborhoods in Camiguin.
If you experience delayed or canceled flights, services like AirHelp can help passengers get compensation. Check their website for eligibility and claims process.
Check if your flight delay or cancellation qualifies for compensation under EU regulations.
AirHelp handles the claim for you, saving time and effort.
You may get up to €600 in compensation, depending on the delay length and flight distance.
