Things To Do
in Siquijor
Siquijor is a small island province located in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines. It is known for its pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical forests. The island is also famous for its mystical reputation, with stories of witchcraft and healers attracting curious visitors.
Travelers often come to Siquijor to experience its natural beauty, serene atmosphere, and rich cultural heritage.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $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: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Salagdoong Beach for some sun and swimming. Enjoy the stunning views and try cliff diving if you're feeling adventurous.
After lunch, head to the famous Cambugahay Falls for a refreshing swim. The natural pools are perfect for relaxing and taking photos.
Wrap up your day with a sunset at Paliton Beach. The serene atmosphere makes it a great spot for reflection and enjoying the tranquility.
Visit the mystical Mount Bandilaan Natural Monument for a morning hike. Enjoy the lush greenery and diverse wildlife as you explore the trails.
Stop by Lazi Church and the San Isidro Labrador Parish Museum to delve into local history. The architecture is captivating and worth a closer look.
Enjoy a local dinner at a small beachside restaurant. Savor fresh seafood while listening to the waves crashing nearby.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful pristine beaches and clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
- Rich cultural heritage with local festivals and traditions.
- Relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, ideal for stress relief and unwinding.
- Opportunities for various outdoor activities such as hiking, diving, and exploring waterfalls.
- Friendly and welcoming locals who are eager to share their culture.
- Less commercialized compared to other tourist destinations, allowing for a more authentic experience.
- Limited infrastructure and transportation options, which may make travel inconvenient.
- Some areas may experience power outages or unreliable internet connectivity.
- Health services and facilities may be lacking, which could be a concern for emergencies.
- While less crowded, some tourists may find the island too quiet for their taste.
- Accommodations may vary in quality, and options can be limited during peak season.
Best Activities in Siquijor
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Siquijor's coastline is dotted with beautiful beaches, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
Explore the island's stunning waterfalls such as Cambugahay Falls and Lugnason Falls for a refreshing and picturesque adventure.
Rent a motorbike and traverse the island's scenic roads, visiting local villages, historical sites, and natural attractions.
Discover the vibrant underwater world of Siquijor through its popular dive sites and coral reefs, teeming with marine life.
Embark on nature walks through the island's lush forests and hills, offering stunning panoramic views and a glimpse of the local flora and fauna.
Tours
Uncover the best of Siquijor with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Siquijor
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of turquoise waters, cliffs, and a natural coral platform perfect for photography.
Scenic tiered waterfalls surrounded by lush greenery, a popular spot for taking photos and swimming.
An enchanting tree with a natural fish spa at its base, providing a unique photo opportunity.
A historical church with a picturesque facade and serene atmosphere, ideal for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Siquijor
Siquijor Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Kinilaw is a local favorite, consisting of raw fish or seafood marinated in vinegar, calamansi juice, and spices. It's a refreshing and tangy dish often served as an appetizer or pulutan (bar snack). Try it at Coco Grove Beach Resort or Salamandas Restaurant.
Must-Try!
Torta is a savory omelette made with ground pork, shrimp, or vegetables. It's a staple breakfast item and can be found at local eateries like Lorna's End of the World.
Sinigang is a sour soup typically made with pork, shrimp, or fish, mixed with vegetables and tamarind broth. Enjoy a flavorful bowl at Jo's Chicken Inato or any beachside carinderia (eatery).
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit the bustling food market in Enrique Villanueva to experience the vibrant local food scene. Indulge in street food favorites like grilled squid, fish ball skewers, and bibingka (rice cake).
Every Friday evening, Larena hosts a lively night market where you can relish an assortment of grilled meats, fresh seafood, and Filipino desserts like halo-halo and turon.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Siquijor, it's important to be respectful of the local superstitious beliefs and practices, such as the belief in witchcraft and traditional healing. Avoid mocking or disrespecting these beliefs.
When visiting local communities or religious sites, it's important to dress modestly and respectfully, especially for women. Revealing clothing may be seen as disrespectful.
Politeness is highly valued in Siquijor. Greet locals with a smile and a respectful nod or a gentle handshake. Always use polite language and show consideration for others.
Safety
Tipping in Siquijor
Ensure a smooth experience
In Siquijor, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated, especially in restaurants, hotels, and for tour guides. A 10-15% tip is considered a generous gesture.
Cash is widely used for day-to-day transactions in Siquijor. Credit cards may be accepted in some hotels and larger establishments, but it is advisable to keep cash on hand for smaller purchases and in more remote areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The dry season is the best time to visit Siquijor, Philippines, as the weather is typically sunny and dry. You can expect clear skies, calm seas, and ideal conditions for beach activities, snorkeling, and diving.
During the wet season, Siquijor experiences heavy rainfall and potential typhoons. However, the landscape becomes lush and green, and waterfalls are at their most spectacular. It's also a quieter time for tourists, and accommodation prices may be lower.
Siquijor at Night
Hiking in Siquijor
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The highest peak in Siquijor, Mount Bandilaan offers scenic views of the island. The area is part of the Mount Bandilaan National Park, which features various trails and lush vegetation.
This trail leads from Salagdoong Beach to the popular cliff jumping spot, providing opportunities for swimming and enjoying the coastal scenery along the way.
A scenic trek from San Juan to Lipayo Beach, this trail allows hikers to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Siquijor's coastline and tropical foliage.
While primarily known for its caves, the paths leading to Cantabon Cave offer a combination of hiking through rugged terrain and exploring the fascinating underground formations.
A lesser-known hiking destination, Mt. Candelaria features a challenging trail that rewards hikers with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Aiports
How to reach Siquijor by plane.
Located in Cebu, approximately 125 kilometers from Siquijor, this airport serves as a major gateway to the central and southern Philippines.
Located in Davao City, around 300 kilometers from Siquijor, this airport is one of the busiest in the Mindanao region, handling both domestic and international flights.
Situated in Kalibo, Aklan, approximately 250 kilometers from Siquijor, this airport primarily serves tourists traveling to Boracay.
Located in Iloilo City, about 180 kilometers from Siquijor, this airport serves both domestic and some international flights.
Situated in Pampanga, around 650 kilometers from Siquijor, this airport is a major international gateway in Central Luzon.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Siquijor, native to the Cebu region.
A broad ethnic group residing in the Visayas region, including those in Siquijor.
An ethnic group from the Luzon region, with a smaller population in Siquijor.
Primarily from the Northern Luzon region, with a minimal presence in Siquijor.
Small groups with ancestral ties to the land, representing the historical heritage of Siquijor.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is one of the most popular sports in Siquijor, played in many towns and communities.
Volleyball is widely enjoyed, especially among the youth, with many local tournaments held throughout the year.
Due to its beaches, surfing has gained popularity, attracting both locals and tourists to catch waves.
Soccer is played in various schools and communities, fostering a sense of competition and teamwork.
Running events and marathons are organized, promoting fitness and community engagement.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Siquijor.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Filipino cuisine heavily features meat and seafood, many restaurants in Siquijor offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives. Look for dishes like vegetable adobo, tofu sisig, and fresh fruit smoothies.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy rice-based dishes such as grilled seafood, fresh spring rolls, and sticky rice desserts. Most establishments are accommodating and willing to customize meals to accommodate gluten-free requirements.