Mystic Siquijor Escape
Owen Murphy
| 01-07-2026
· Travel teamHave you ever dreamed of visiting an island filled with beautiful waterfalls, giant ancient trees, peaceful villages, and fascinating local legends? If so, Siquijor in the Philippines could be one of the most memorable places to add to our travel list.
Many people first hear about Siquijor because of the island's mysterious stories passed down through generations.
These tales have made the island famous for its unique culture, but today's visitors mainly come to enjoy its peaceful atmosphere, friendly locals, crystal-clear water, and untouched scenery.
Although reaching the island takes a little planning, every moment spent here is rewarding. Let's discover how to get there, what to see, how much to budget, and why spending two or three days here is well worth it.
Siquijor
How We Can Reach Siquijor
Getting to Siquijor is easier than many travelers expect once we understand the routes.
The most convenient option is to travel to Dumaguete first, then take a ferry to Siquijor. Ferries operate frequently throughout the day, and the crossing takes around 45 minutes.
Typical transportation costs include:
Ferry from Dumaguete to Siquijor
- Economy Class: about $4.50
- Business Class: about $6.80
- Travel time: 45 minutes
If we are already visiting Bohol, another ferry connects directly to Siquijor.
Direct ferry from Bohol
- Economy Class: about $12.50
- Business Class: about $18
- Travel time: around 1 hour 20 minutes
Some routes also connect through Dumaguete, taking approximately 4 hours.
Siquijor has two ferry terminals.
- Siquijor Port serves most ferries arriving from Dumaguete and is close to many hotels.
- Larena Port mainly receives ferries from Bohol and is farther from the town center.
Planning Dumaguete and Siquijor together makes transportation smoother and gives us more flexibility.
Getting Around the Island
After arriving, transportation is simple.
Since the island is relatively compact, many attractions can be visited within a day, although staying longer allows us to enjoy a slower pace.
Popular transportation choices include:
- Scooter rental: about $6 per day
- Seven-seat van with driver: around $45 per day
- Tricycle rides are available almost everywhere for short distances.
Road conditions are generally good, making self-driving enjoyable for visitors with valid driving licenses.
A complete island loop covers only around 30 kilometers, yet every stop offers beautiful scenery worth exploring.
St. Francis de Assisi Landmark: A Peaceful First Stop
Located only 1–2 minutes on foot from Siquijor Port, St. Francis de Assisi Chapel is usually the first landmark visitors encounter after arriving.
- Admission: Free
The small garden outside features the famous "Welcome to Siquijor" sign, making it one of the island's favorite photo locations.
Unlike grand historic buildings elsewhere, this place of worship feels simple and peaceful. Weathered stone walls, aged wooden benches, and quiet surroundings create a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the relaxed character of the island.
Arriving here feels like opening the first chapter of our Siquijor adventure.
Century-Old Balete Tree and the Popular Fish Spa
One of Siquijor's most iconic attractions is the Century Old Balete Tree, estimated to be over 600 years old.
Standing around 20 meters tall with massive roots stretching into a natural spring, the tree creates a cool, shaded environment even on warm afternoons.
Visitor Information:
- Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entrance fee: about $0.20
- Fish spa included
- No time limit
Nearby, a spring-fed pool is home to dozens of small fish that gently nibble at visitors' feet.
The experience is surprisingly entertaining. The first few seconds feel ticklish, followed by bursts of laughter as the fish eagerly gather around.
Many visitors end up staying much longer than expected simply because the peaceful surroundings are so relaxing.
Small souvenir shops near the entrance also sell locally made handicrafts and herbal products.
Interesting Local Legends and Unique Souvenirs
Siquijor is famous for its traditional folklore.
While many stories describe mysterious healers and magical traditions, today's visitors usually experience these tales through local crafts, conversations, and souvenir shops rather than real encounters.
- One interesting souvenir is the famous Love Potion.
- A bottle usually costs around $3.60.
According to shop owners, it contains various herbs blended together. The amusing part comes when visitors ask whether it actually helps people find romance.
Many shopkeepers simply smile and explain that the name is mostly for fun, making this one of the island's most entertaining souvenirs.
Whether we believe the stories or not, these local traditions certainly add extra charm to our journey.
Cambugahay Falls: The Island's Blue Paradise
If there is one attraction we should place at the top of our itinerary, it is Cambugahay Falls.
This beautiful waterfall consists of several cascading pools connected by gentle streams.
Minerals in the spring water create an incredible turquoise color that almost looks unreal, especially under bright sunshine.
Visitor Information:
- Entrance: Free
- Parking: about $0.40–0.60
- Jump platform: about $0.90 with unlimited jumps
- Life jacket rental: about $1.80
- Best visiting time: 8:00 AM–11:00 AM for softer sunlight and fewer visitors
A wooden jumping platform stands beside one of the pools.
Visitors can leap into refreshing clear water over 2 meters deep, while others simply enjoy swimming or relaxing nearby.
Farther along the trail lies another pool with shallower water, making it suitable for families.
Simple changing areas are available near the second waterfall at no extra charge.
Where to Stay and What to Eat
For a comfortable visit, staying 2–3 days allows enough time to enjoy the island without rushing.
Typical accommodation prices include:
- Budget guesthouses: $20–35 per night
- Mid-range beach resorts: $45–90 per night
- Premium seaside resorts: $120 and above
Dining is also affordable.
Typical meal prices are:
- Local restaurants: $4–8
- Fresh seafood meals: $10–18
- Coffee and desserts: $2–5
Many accommodations are located near the coastline, making it easy to enjoy sunrise or sunset views just a short walk from the room.
Helpful Tips Before We Visit
A little preparation helps us enjoy the trip even more.
- Bring lightweight clothing, comfortable sandals, swimwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, and waterproof bags for electronics.
- Cash is useful because smaller shops may not accept cards.
- Morning visits offer cooler temperatures and better lighting for photography.
Since the island is relaxed and quiet, taking our time instead of rushing between attractions makes the experience much more enjoyable.
A Journey Worth Remembering
Lykkers, Siquijor offers much more than beautiful scenery. Ancient trees, clear waterfalls, quiet villages, welcoming people, and fascinating local stories all come together to create an island unlike anywhere else.
Even after spending nearly a full day exploring, it still feels like there are hidden beaches, peaceful viewpoints, and charming corners waiting to be discovered. That's exactly why staying for two or three days is a wonderful idea.
If you're searching for a destination filled with natural beauty, relaxing moments, and memorable experiences, Siquijor deserves a place on our next island adventure. Which attraction would you visit first—the giant Balete Tree or the breathtaking blue waterfalls? Let us know, Lykkers!
Top 10 Best Things to Do in Siquijor Island, Philippines - Travel Guide 2026
Video by DoTravel