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Things to Do in Siquijor

Things to Do in Siquijor

Siquijor The Visayas, Philippines Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

From lush forests to marine sanctuaries, Siquijor's outdoors invite exploration for all activity levels.

Hiking & Trekking

Mt. Bandilaan Nature Park

Offers trails from easy walks to moderate hikes, leading to the summit for panoramic views through lush forests.

Cangbangag Falls Trek

Moderate difficulty trek through verdant trails, often navigating riverbeds, to a less crowded, tranquil waterfall.

Lugnason Falls Secret Falls

A relatively easy walk from the main road. The path leads to a serene series of natural pools for swimming.

Water Sports

  • Snorkeling: Tubod Beach Marine Sanctuary (San Juan) renowned for healthy corals and abundant marine life.
  • Diving: Popular sites include Tubod Sanctuary, Maite, and the renowned Sunken Island. PADI and SSI centers available in San Juan.
  • Kayaking & Paddleboarding: Resorts with beachfront access offer rentals for peaceful exploration of calm coastal waters.
  • Cliff Jumping: Salagdoong Beach is the island’s prime spot with two concrete platforms (10-30 ft) for exhilarating jumps.

Adventure & Thrills

  • Cliff jumping at Salagdoong Beach is the main adrenaline activity.
  • Cantabon Cave offers challenging spelunking, navigating narrow passages and underground water.
  • Local guides and appropriate caving gear are recommended for safety.

Wildlife Encounters

  • Birdwatching: Island’s lush forests and seaside areas support various bird species.
  • Butterfly Sanctuary: At Mt. Bandilaan Nature Park, view local butterflies up close.
  • Marine Life: Snorkeling and diving encounter diverse fish, sea turtles, and corals.
  • The island does not host large safaris or big game wildlife viewing.

Cycling Exploration

  • Road Cycling: The 72 km circumferential road loop offers scenic coastal views.
  • Mountain Biking: Interior roads less common but give difficult ground.
  • Bike rentals are available at some resorts or dedicated shops in San Juan.
  • Enjoy exploring the island's beauty at your own pace.

Important Safety Notes

For activities like cliff jumping, assess your skill level and check tide conditions for safety. Local guides are highly recommended for cave exploration to ensure a safe adventure.

Cultural Immersion

Siquijor offers unique opportunities for cultural immersion, specifically through its renowned traditional healing practices and local festivals.

Traditional Healing & Workshops

  • Traditional Healing: Seek Mananambals (healers) for consultations or to observe their unique practices.
  • Healing Festival: During Semana Santa on Mt. Bandilaan, healers gather to concoct healing potions and perform rituals.
  • Cooking Classes: Formal classes rare. Inquire with local guesthouses/homestays for relaxed opportunities to learn Filipino dishes.
  • Community-Based Tourism: Fees paid to local guides directly contribute to the local area, promoting sustainable tourism and cultural heritage.

Festivals & Local Life

Araw ng Siquijor

Celebrated annually on September 17, commemorates the region's founding. Features parades, cultural shows, and community events.

Dilaab Festival

Held during The month of october, showcases local traditions and the "Island of Fire" theme, featuring street dancing and elaborate costumes.

Healing/Solili Festival

Significant event during Semana Santa on Mt. Bandilaan. Traditional healers gather for rituals and spiritual practices. A profound cultural highlight.

Language Learning

Attempt basic Cebuano (Bisaya) phrases. Residents like it when you try, facilitating meaningful interactions. Many Filipinos speak English.

Local Engagement

Engaging with local guides, especially motorcycle drivers, can reveal hidden treasures known only to residents.

Seasonal Experiences

Visit during town fiestas or Holy Week for cultural performances and traditional ceremonies.

Relaxation & Wellness

Siquijor’s tranquil environment and traditional practices make it an excellent destination for relaxation and wellness.

Spa & Natural Therapies

  • Spa Services: Many resorts offer traditional Filipino massage (hilot), Swedish, or hot stone massages.
  • San Juan Hot Spring: A natural hot spring with warm, mineral-rich waters for a relaxing soak. A local favorite.
  • Cambugahay Falls: Natural pools offer a wonderfully relaxing environment for swimming and cooling off, amidst lush surroundings.
  • Old Enchanted Balete Tree: Natural spring adapted for an unique "fish foot spa." Provides a ticklish and relaxing sensation.

Mind & Body Retreats

Yoga & Meditation

Some resorts or boutique places to stay have regular yoga classes or host dedicated retreats.

Traditional Healing

World-renowned Mananambals (healers). Seek them out for healing or to observe their unique practices.

Beach & Pool Clubs

Many resort hotels offer beautiful beach areas and swimming pools. Excellent spots for relaxation and sunbathing.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Live Music Venues

San Juan is the main hub for live music. Resorts and standalone bars feature live acoustic nights.

Bar Districts

San Juan has the highest concentration of bars/restaurants. Casual pub crawls are possible among beachfront bars.

Late-Night Options

Generally quiet after 10-11 PM outside San Juan. Resorts are the main source of evening entertainment for guests.

Shopping & Markets

Siquijor's retail scene focuses on local products, necessities, and unique souvenirs, offering authentic market experiences.

Traditional Markets

  • Siquijor Public Market: Largest and most comprehensive for fresh fish, local produce, and necessities.
  • Larena Public Market: Similar, for fresh goods and local retail, catering to northern island residents.
  • Support Local: Purchasing directly from local artisans benefits the community and traditional livelihoods.
  • Local Delicacies: Dried fish, local spiced peanuts, or traditional sweets found in markets or small bakeries.

Artisan Crafts & Souvenirs

Local Crafts

Artisan workshops are limited and small-scale. Find woven items, and products related to traditional healing.

Souvenir Picks

Healing Oils/Potions: Siquijor'the most famous souvenirs. Believed to possess healing properties or good luck. Purchase from reputable sources.

Other Merchandise

Standard tourist t-shirts, keychains, and branded merchandise available near popular attractions.

Product Variety

  • Local produce.
  • Fresh seafood.
  • Hand-woven goods.
  • Unique healing products.

Shopping Scope

  • Luxury and high-end boutique shopping not available.
  • Retail scene focuses on local products and souvenirs.
  • No designer brands.
  • Functional items over high-end goods.

Ethical Purchases

  • Support local artisans directly.
  • Respect local traditions when buying healing products.
  • Avoid treating products as mere novelties.
  • Directly benefits community and traditional livelihoods.

Practical Shopping Advice

Shipping Considerations
  • Shipping large items is difficult/expensive due to limited logistics.
  • Purchase items fitting in your luggage allowance.
  • Normal Philippine customs rules apply for international flights.
Cultural Respect
  • Engage politely with vendors and respect their local customs.
  • Bargaining is possible in markets, but do so politely and fairly.
  • Have small denominations ready for local vendors and street stalls.

Shopping Tip

Look for products that carry the essence of Siquijor's natural and spiritual heritage for truly unique souvenirs and mementos.

Activity Planning Summary

Outdoor Activities

  • Hiking & Trekking: Explore Mt. Bandilaan, Cangbangag Falls, and Lugnason Falls.
  • Water Sports: Snorkeling at Tubod Sanctuary, diving, kayaking, and exhilarating cliff jumping.
  • Cycling: Traverse the scenic circumferential road or challenging interior trails.
  • Wildlife: Opportunities for birdwatching, visiting the butterfly sanctuary, and sea creatures observation.

Cultural & Wellness Focus

  • Cultural Immersion: Engage with traditional healers, attend local festivals and fiestas.
  • Relaxation: Enjoy spa services, natural hot springs, the unique fish foot spa, or serene yoga retreats.
  • Nightlife: Experience laid-back live music and casual bars, mainly concentrated in San Juan.
  • Shopping: Discover local markets for fresh produce, artisan crafts, and the famous Siquijor healing oils.