Nearby Destinations: Siquijor

Apo Island Excursion

It is an excellent destination for snorkeling and diving, displaying some of the best marine biodiversity in the Philippines.

Travel typically via a day trip boat tour from Siquijor. Many resorts and dive shops (especially in San Juan) organize these tours. Costs typically PHP 1,500-2,500 per person, often with lunch and snorkeling gear. Travel time by boat from Siquijor approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. Apo Island also accessible from Malatapay Port in Negros Oriental, which means a ferry to Dumaguete first.

Tour Options

Organized tours from Siquijor are the most common and straightforward option. They manage all logistics, including boat transfer and permits.
Independent travel means a ferry to Dumaguete, then a jeepney to Malatapay, and then a public boat to Apo Island, which is time-consuming for a single day trip from Siquijor.
A full day trip is typical, lasting 7-8 hours. The itinerary often covers multiple snorkeling or dive stops to observe sea turtles and coral gardens, followed by lunch on the island.
An excellent spot for marine life observation.

Natural Escapes

Beyond Apo Island, other natural wonders in the vicinity display rewarding excursions, though some may mean more extensive travel.

Dolphin Watching & Manjuyod Sandbar

This activity, often combined with a visit to the Manjuyod Sandbar, presents a chance to observe playful dolphins in their natural habitat. Manjuyod Sandbar is a pristine stretch of white sand appearing only during low tide, creating a stunning temporary island.

Logistics

This excursion more feasible as a full-day trip from Dumaguete. It means an early morning fast craft ferry from Siquijor to Dumaguete.
From Dumaguete, take a bus or van to Bais City or Manjuyod, then hire a boat for the dolphin watching and sandbar tour.
To make this day trip work, leave Siquijor very early to catch the first ferry to Dumaguete. The boat tour typically lasts a few hours, including dolphin spotting and time at the sandbar. Return to Dumaguete in the late afternoon for a ferry back to Siquijor. This trip means a very long day but unique natural experiences.

Other Nature Adventures

The region around Siquijor and Dumaguete holds additional natural beauty, suitable for those extending their exploration.

Hidden Gems

Explore the serene Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park near Dumaguete.
Discover various hot springs and mountain resorts in Negros Oriental.
Consider extended treks in the mountainous areas for unique viewpoints.

Eco-Friendly Travel Tips

Waste Reduction

Bring a reusable water bottle.
Use reusable shopping bags.
Avoid single-use plastics.
Do not litter, especially in natural areas.

Resource Conservation

Take shorter showers.
Turn off taps when not in use.
Report any leaks to accommodation.
Be mindful of electricity usage.

Currency Exchange & Costs

Local Currency:Philippine Peso (PHP)
Exchange Rate:Varies daily
ATM Availability:Siquijor, Larena, San Juan
Credit Cards:Accepted in larger resorts/shops

Budget Accommodation:PHP 300-1000/night
Mid-range Accommodation:PHP 1500-3500/night
Local Meals:PHP 50-150/meal
Motorcycle Rental:PHP 250-400/day

Plan Ahead

Check ferry schedules and book tickets in advance, especially during peak season. Bring cash as many remote areas have limited ATM access. Discover more day trips and excursions with GetYourGuide.

Cultural Excursions

Dumaguete City, just a short ferry ride away, presents a contrasting urban and cultural experience compared to Siquijor's laid-back island vibe.

Silliman University

Visit the campus of one of Asia's oldest American-founded universities. Explore its beautiful grounds and consider visiting the Anthropology Museum.

Local Markets

Explore the bustling public markets for fresh produce, local delicacies, and souvenirs. A truly immersive experience.

Sans Rival Pastries

No visit to Dumaguete is complete without trying the famous Sans Rival cake and Silvanas from Sans Rival Cakes and Pastries.

Dumaguete City Exploration

Dumaguete offers a mix of historical sites, local markets, and modern amenities.

Getting There

Frequent fast crafts connect Siquijor (Siquijor Port or Larena Port) to Dumaguete City Port.
The ferry ride typically takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, making it an easy day trip.
Suggested activity: Stroll along Rizal Boulevard, a scenic waterfront promenade.

Cultural Walkthrough

This can be a half-day or full-day trip, depending on how much you wish to explore. Return ferries operate until the early evening.

Day Trip Ideas

Start your day with a stroll along Rizal Boulevard.
Visit Silliman University and its Anthropology Museum.
Explore the bustling public markets.

Cultural Calendar & Holidays

Holy Week:Traditional Healing Festival

Christmas:Limited Business Hours

New Year:Expect Closures

Town Fiestas:Specific dates vary

Araw ng Siquijor:September 17

General Rule:Monitor local advisories

Respect Local Traditions

Approach local folklore and healing practices with respect and curiosity.
Ask permission before taking photos of individuals.
Embrace the island's unique spiritual side.
Engage with an open mind and a warm smile.
Your thoughtfulness enhances your journey.

Multi-Day Extensions

Siquijor's excellent ferry connections simplify combining your visit with multi-day explorations of other popular Visayan islands, crafting a more comprehensive itinerary.

Logical Next Destinations

Bohol

Famous for Chocolate Hills, Philippine Tarsiers, and Loboc River Cruise. Panglao Island offers stunning white sand beaches.

Cebu

A major hub with city attractions and natural wonders in its southern regions. Southern Cebu has canyoneering in Badian.

Negros Oriental

Explore Dumaguete City, serene Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park, or various hot springs and mountain resorts.

Inter-Island Ferry Connections

All these islands are well-connected by frequent ferry services, making multi-island hopping relatively seamless.
Siquijor to Bohol: Fast crafts from Larena (Siquijor) to Tagbilaran (Bohol) are available via OceanJet, taking approximately 1.5-2 hours.
Siquijor to Cebu: Direct fast crafts from Larena (Siquijor) to Cebu City (via Tagbilaran) are operated by OceanJet. Alternatively, take a ferry from Siquijor to Dumaguete, then a bus/ferry combination from Dumaguete to Cebu.
Siquijor to Negros Oriental: Frequent fast crafts and RoRo ferries run between Siquijor ports and Dumaguete City.
Plan ferry transfers for seamless regional travel.
Ferry schedules can vary; check in advance.

Regional Travel Routes

Discover comprehensive itineraries for exploring the broader Visayas region, combining diverse experiences.
Visayas Loop: A popular itinerary often starts in Cebu, then continues to Bohol, Siquijor, then crosses to Dumaguete/Negros Oriental, and finally returns to Cebu. This loop displays a comprehensive experience of the Central Visayas.
Southern Visayas Dive Trail: For diving enthusiasts, a route focusing on top dive sites could include Siquijor (Tubod Sanctuary, Sunken Island), Apo Island (known for sea turtles), and Southern Cebu (Moalboal for the sardine run). This route delivers diverse underwater experiences.
Each route offers distinct cultural and natural wonders.
Explore combinations that suit your interests.
The region has many opportunities for discovery.

Budgeting for Longer Trips

Ferry Costs avg

PHP 200-1000 per leg, depending on distance and type of vessel.

Accommodation Savings

Monthly rates for long stays often offer significant discounts.

Food Expenses

Local eateries provide excellent value for meals compared to resorts.

Seamless Regional Exploration

Siquijor serves as an excellent base for onward travel to Bohol, Cebu, and Negros Oriental. Ferry connections simplify multi-island adventures. Discover more day trips and excursions with GetYourGuide.

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