The Visayas, Philippines
The island has a distinct wet and dry season, influencing travel conditions. The dry season (December to May) brings minimal rainfall and predominantly sunny days. This period offers ideal conditions for beach activities, swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Exploring waterfalls and other natural attractions also becomes easier due to less muddy trails.
The wet season (July to October) sees higher chances of rainfall. This period offers lower prices for flights and accommodation, making it an option for budget travelers. Increased rainfall makes landscapes lush and waterfalls fuller. Monitor weather forecasts during this period, as tropical depressions and storms can occur, leading to heavy rainfall, strong winds, rough seas, and ferry cancellations.
Most nationalities enter the Philippines without a visa for a limited period, typically for tourism. Citizens from the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, and most European Union member states receive an entry stamp upon arrival for up to 30 days.
Citizens of other countries must apply for a visa in advance at a Philippine embassy or consulate. For longer stays, visa extensions are processed at a Bureau of Immigration office within the Philippines, like the major office in Dumaguete City.
For Entry to the Philippines
At least six months beyond departure.
Proof of confirmed exit from the Philippines.
Immigration Process
Complete accurately on arrival.
No general entry fees at airports/seaports.
The Philippine Peso (PHP) serves as the official currency. Exchange rates change, so checking current rates before your journey is advisable. On Siquijor, major banks in Siquijor Municipality and Larena offer currency exchange. ATMs are available in larger towns. Carrying enough cash, especially for remote areas, is practical, as many smaller establishments accept cash only.
Tipping is not strictly obligatory in the Philippines but is always a welcome gesture of appreciation for good service. For restaurants, a tip of 5-10% becomes customary if no service charge is included. If a service charge is present, an additional tip remains optional but gains appreciation for exceptional service. For drivers and guides, PHP 50-200 per day is a sound reference.
A cost-effective way to explore independently.
Choose "carinderias" (local eateries) and public markets for affordable meals.
For tricycle fares or market goods, polite negotiation sometimes results in lower prices.
Carry a Reusable water bottle; many places offer refills, reducing Bottled water needs.
Shoulder or low season generally present lower prices and fewer crowds.
Siquijor maintains a reputation as one of the Philippines' safest provinces for tourists, with low crime rates. Nevertheless, awareness of surroundings and appropriate health precautions remain sensible.
Common travel ailments include diarrhea and food/waterborne illnesses. Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne illness, occurs. Sunburn and heatstroke are also concerns due to intense tropical sun.
Siquijor has provincial hospitals for basic medical services. For serious conditions, transfer to a larger hospital in Dumaguete City or Cebu City may be necessary. Pharmacies stock common medications. Emergency services are limited.
While Siquijor generally avoids the direct path of typhoons, monitoring local weather forecasts during the wet season (June to November) is important. Such events may lead to ferry cancellations. For flight compensation due to delays or cancellations, AirHelp stands as an option for eligible flights.
A detailed cost breakdown for different travel styles, per person, per day:
| Travel Style | Accommodation | Meals | Local Transport | Activities/Misc. | Total Daily (PHP) | Total Daily (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | PHP 500-1,000 | PHP 300-600 | PHP 150-300 | PHP 100-300 | PHP 1,050-2,200 | USD 18-38 |
| Mid-range | PHP 1,500-3,500 | PHP 700-1,200 | PHP 300-600 | PHP 300-800 | PHP 2,800-6,100 | USD 48-105 |
| Luxury | PHP 4,000+ | PHP 1,500-3,000+ | PHP 800-2,000+ | PHP 1,000-3,000+ | PHP 7,300-10,000+ | USD 125-170+ |
