Del Carmen
,Del Carmen is a town located in the province of Surigao del Norte in the Philippines. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. The town is also famous for being the home of the largest contiguous mangrove forest in the country, which is a haven for diverse wildlife.
Del Carmen is a popular destination for ecotourism and offers opportunities for outdoor activities like kayaking, bird watching, and island hopping.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $60
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Cultural Exploration
morning
:Visit the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and try traditional Filipino breakfast dishes. Engage with local vendors and soak in the culture of Del Carmen.
afternoon
:Head to the Del Carmen Church for a glimpse of the town’s history and architecture. Take a leisurely stroll along its picturesque surroundings.
evening
:Enjoy a sunset walk along the beach and explore nearby dining options for some fresh seafood. Immerse yourself in the relaxed evening vibe of the town.
Island Hopping
morning
:Charter a boat to explore the nearby islands such as Bucas Grande. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters and enjoy the vibrant marine life.
afternoon
:Relax on the beach of one of the remote islands and have a picnic lunch. Swim or sunbathe while enjoying the serene environment.
evening
:Return to Del Carmen and find a beachfront restaurant for dinner. Enjoy local dishes as you listen to the sounds of the ocean.
Highlights
Good
- Beautiful beaches with clear waters and white sand.
- Rich marine biodiversity, ideal for diving and snorkeling.
- Stunning natural landscapes and picturesque scenery.
- Friendly and hospitable local community.
- Affordability of accommodations and local cuisine.
Bad
- Limited access to modern amenities and healthcare facilities.
- Potential for natural disasters like typhoons.
- Insufficient infrastructure for transportation.
- Seasonal tourism can affect the local economy.
- Environmental concerns related to tourism and overfishing.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Island hopping
Explore the beautiful islands and crystal-clear waters of Del Carmen through island hopping tours.
Snorkeling and diving
Discover the diverse marine life and vibrant coral reefs by snorkeling or diving in the waters around Del Carmen.
Kayaking and paddleboarding
Enjoy the tranquil coastal scenery of Del Carmen while kayaking or paddleboarding along its shores.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Del Carmen with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Hagakgak View Deck
Offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding islands and seascape.
Capitan Beach
Scenic beach area with picturesque views, perfect for photography.
Tangkaan Point
Popular spot for sunset photography with its unobstructed views of the horizon.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Kinilaw
A refreshing seafood dish made with raw fish or seafood marinated in vinegar, calamansi juice, and spices. It's a must-try for its zesty and tangy flavors. Visit Paluto Sa Royal for an authentic taste of Kinilaw.
Must-Try!
Adobong Pusit
Squid stewed in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic. This iconic Filipino dish is a local favorite and can be savored at Lola Basyang's Seafood Grill.
Lato Salad
Lato, a type of seaweed, is mixed with tomatoes, onions, and a special vinegar dressing to create a refreshing and unique salad. Indulge in Lato Salad at Bahay Kubo.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Del Carmen better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Del Carmen Public Market
A bustling market where you can sample a wide array of fresh produce, local snacks, and street food delights. Don't miss the grilled seafood skewers and bibingka (rice cake).
Mangrove Kusina
Experience a charming food stall set amidst picturesque mangroves, offering an assortment of grilled seafood, kinilaw, and native delicacies. It's a perfect spot for an authentic street food experience.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect for Elders
In Del Carmen, it is important to show respect to elders through gestures such as using respectful language and offering assistance when needed.
Appropriate Clothing
Visitors should dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or participating in community events, to show respect for local cultural norms.
Punctuality
Being on time is valued in Del Carmen, so it is important to make an effort to be punctual for meetings, gatherings, and social events.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Del Carmen with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Del Carmen, Philippines, tipping is not a common practice. It is not expected in restaurants, hotels, or for services. However, if you receive exceptional service, a small tip may be appreciated, but it is not obligatory.
Payment
Cash is the primary form of payment in Del Carmen, especially in smaller establishments. Some larger hotels and businesses may accept credit cards, but it's always advisable to carry enough cash for daily expenses. It's also worth noting that ATMs may not be widely available, so it's essential to plan accordingly.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Del Carmen.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season (December to May)
Best time to visit Del Carmen, Philippines with less rainfall, sunny days, and ideal for outdoor activities such as beach outings, snorkeling, and island hopping.
Wet season (June to November)
Expect higher rainfall, occasional storms, and potential for typhoons. However, lush green landscapes, cheaper accommodation, and quieter tourism make it a good time for budget travelers and those seeking a more peaceful experience.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Sierra Madre Hiking Trails
Experience the breathtaking views of the Sierra Madre mountain range with various trails suitable for different skill levels.
Mount Apo
The highest peak in the Philippines, offering challenging hikes with stunning panoramic views and diverse flora and fauna.
Mount Iglit - Baco National Park
Home to unique wildlife and rich biodiversity, this park features several hiking trails that cater to adventurous trekkers.
Bataan National Park
A historical site with scenic hiking trails that lead to views of lush forests and natural hot springs.
Mount Pulag
Known for its sea of clouds and grasslands, this summit provides an unforgettable hiking experience for both beginners and seasoned hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Del Carmen through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Del Carmen by plane.
Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB)
Located in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, it is the second largest airport in the Philippines and serves international and domestic flights.
Francisco Bangoy International Airport (DVO)
Located in Davao City, it is the main airport serving the Davao Region and is a key hub for international flights to and from Mindanao.
Clark International Airport (CRK)
Located in Angeles City, Pampanga, it serves the Central and Northern Luzon regions and is an emerging gateway for international flights.
Kalibo International Airport (KLO)
Located in Kalibo, Aklan, it serves as a primary gateway to Boracay and handles both domestic and international flights.
Iloilo International Airport (ILO)
Located in Cabatuan, Iloilo, it serves domestic and international flights primarily to and from Western Visayas.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Cebuano
The largest ethnic group in the region, primarily speaking Cebuano.
Ilocano
A significant population known for their agricultural background.
Tagalog
Another prominent group often involved in commerce and trade.
Visayan
Includes various subgroups from the Visayas region, contributing to local culture.
Chinese
A smaller but influential community, involved in business and trade.
The Soul of Del Carmen
Discover the essence of Del Carmen through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball
Basketball is one of the most popular sports in the Philippines, including Del Carmen. Local communities often host leagues and friendly games.
Surfing
Del Carmen is well-known for its waves, making surfing a popular sport among both locals and tourists.
Football (Soccer)
Football is growing in popularity in the Philippines, and Del Carmen has seen an increase in local teams and youth leagues.
Beach Volleyball
With beautiful beaches available, beach volleyball is a favorite pastime and competitively played in local tournaments.
Diving
Scuba diving is popular due to the rich marine biodiversity around Del Carmen, attracting both locals and tourists for diving adventures.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While traditional Filipino cuisine prominently features meat and seafood, many restaurants and cafes in Del Carmen offer vegetarian alternatives such as vegetable adobo, pinakbet, and freshly prepared fruit shakes. Hibok-Hibok Café is a great place to find delicious vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes.
Gluten-free Options
Gluten-free options may be more limited, but one can find grilled seafood, fresh fruit, and rice-based dishes at local eateries which are generally gluten-free. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly to ensure a satisfying dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Del Carmen with these cultural adventures.
