Things To Do
in Mambajao
Mambajao is a coastal town located on the island of Camiguin in the Philippines. It is known for its stunning beaches, clear turquoise waters, and lush tropical surroundings. The town is also famous for its marine biodiversity, making it a popular destination for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.
Mambajao boasts a laid-back atmosphere, friendly locals, and a variety of accommodations ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café before heading out for an island hopping tour. Explore beautiful spots like White Island and enjoy swimming in crystal-clear waters.
After lunch on one of the islands, continue your adventure by snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs. Capture stunning underwater photos and enjoy the marine life.
Return to Mambajao for a relaxing dinner at a beachfront restaurant. Enjoy fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the ocean.
Begin your day with an early trek to the nearby Hibok-Hibok volcano. Prepare for a thrilling hike and witness breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Have a picnic lunch at a scenic viewpoint where you can rest and enjoy the fresh air. After lunch, explore the lush trails and find hidden waterfalls.
Head back to Mambajao to unwind and enjoy a local dinner. Reflect on your adventurous day while trying traditional dishes.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery including beaches and mountains.
- Rich cultural heritage and local traditions.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as diving and hiking.
- Relatively low cost of living compared to urban areas.
- Limited access to healthcare facilities and services.
- Infrastructure may not be as developed as in larger cities.
- Potential issues with transportation and road conditions.
- Limited access to modern amenities and entertainment options.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters such as typhoons and earthquakes.
Best Activities in Mambajao
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the picturesque White Island, an uninhabited sandbar with crystal clear waters and stunning views of Mt. Hibok-Hibok and Old Volcano.
Hike to the beautiful Katibawasan Falls, a majestic 250-foot waterfall surrounded by lush greenery and natural pools for swimming.
Relax and rejuvenate at Ardent Hot Springs, known for its natural hot spring pools set amidst the tropical forest.
Tours
Uncover the best of Mambajao with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Mambajao
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the island and the surrounding waters
A sandbar with stunning views of the clear blue sea and the island's landscape
Historical site with a picturesque view of the coastline and neighboring islands
Food in Mambajao
Mambajao Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Filipino version of ceviche using fresh fish marinated in vinegar, calamansi juice, and spices. Try this dish at Luna Ristorante or Gioielli Cafe in Mambajao.
Must-Try!
These sweet and succulent tropical fruits are a local specialty. They are available in abundance during the Lanzones Festival held in October. You can find them in various markets across Mambajao.
A seafood dish that features three different cooking methods: sugba (grilled), tuwa (soup-based), and kilaw (raw in vinegar). Visit J&A Fishpen in Mambajao to relish this authentic delicacy.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Mambajao better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a haven for street food lovers. It offers an array of freshly grilled skewered meats, local snacks, and refreshing beverages. Don't miss the opportunity to sample the grilled squid and bibingka (rice cake) here.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Mambajao, it is important to show respect for elders, often through addressing them with proper titles and using polite language.
Hospitality is highly valued in Mambajao, and guests are often welcomed warmly and offered food and refreshments as a sign of respect and friendship.
It is respectful to dress modestly in Mambajao, particularly when visiting religious sites or participating in traditional events to honor local cultural norms.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Mambajao with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Mambajao
Ensure a smooth experience
In Mambajao, it is not customary to tip at restaurants or for most services. However, some upscale establishments may include a service charge in the bill.
Cash is the primary form of payment in Mambajao, and credit card acceptance may be limited to larger hotels and establishments. It's advisable to carry sufficient cash for transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Mambajao.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Mambajao, Philippines is during the dry season, from December to May. This period offers sunny weather, relatively low humidity, and calm sea conditions, making it ideal for beach activities, snorkeling, and diving. It's also a great time for exploring the island's natural attractions and taking part in outdoor adventures.
During the rainy season, from June to November, Mambajao experiences wet and humid weather, with occasional typhoons and heavy rains. While this period may not be ideal for beach activities, it can be a good time for those interested in witnessing lush green landscapes, enjoying local festivals, and experiencing the island's quieter atmosphere. Additionally, the rainforests and waterfalls are at their most stunning during this season.
Mambajao at Night
Hiking in Mambajao
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
An active stratovolcano that offers a challenging hike with stunning views of Camiguin Island and the surrounding ocean.
A white sandbar that can be reached by boat, offering opportunities for beach hiking and exploration of its natural beauty.
Located near Mambajao, this scenic waterfall can be accessed via a short hike through lush vegetation.
An easy to moderate hike that allows you to explore the unique volcanic landscape and take in panoramic views.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Mambajao through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Mambajao by plane.
Located in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, this airport serves domestic and limited international flights.
Situated in Pampanga, this airport acts as a secondary gateway to Metro Manila and caters to several international airlines.
Located in Pasay City, Manila, this is the primary international airport serving the Philippines with numerous global destinations.
Located in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, this airport is one of the busiest in the Philippines, catering to both domestic and international flights.
Located in Davao City, this airport serves as a key gateway to Mindanao and offers a mix of domestic and international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A majority ethnic group in Mambajao, known for their distinct language and cultural practices.
A significant demographic group in Mambajao, sharing cultural and linguistic traits with regions in northern Luzon.
A prominent group typically found in various parts of the Philippines, including Mambajao, predominantly speaking Tagalog.
This group includes people from various Visayan-speaking areas, contributing to the cultural diversity of Mambajao.
Various other ethnic groups and migrant populations that add to the multicultural landscape of Mambajao.
The Soul of Mambajao
Discover the essence of Mambajao through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is extremely popular in Mambajao, with many local courts and tournaments.
Volleyball is widely played, especially among women and in community events.
Football has a growing following in Mambajao, with schools and clubs participating in local leagues.
Badminton is a popular recreational sport, enjoyed by many people in homes and community centers.
Running events and martial arts classes are also popular, promoting health and fitness among the youth.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mambajao.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Filipino cuisine heavily features meat and seafood, several eateries in Mambajao, including Lanzones Cabana and CheckPoint Food Park, provide vegetable-based dishes and vegan-friendly meals such as pinakbet (mixed vegetable stew) and tofu sisig.
Gluten-free options are available at select restaurants and cafes in Mambajao. Lanzones Cabana offers gluten-free variants of local dishes, and many street food vendors offer grilled meats and fresh fruits that are naturally gluten-free.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Mambajao with these cultural adventures.
