Siquijor — The Mystical Island★★
Siquijor is the most mystical island in the Philippines — a place that evokes superstitious fear in many Filipinos. The island is famous for its Bolo-Bolo healers (traditional folk healers), who work with herbs, prayers, and ritual practices. During Holy Week, the healers gather on Mount Bandila-an to collect ingredients for their remedies — an event that has been taking place for centuries, surrounding the island with an aura of mystery.
Behind the mystical image lies a beautiful, relaxed island that can easily be circumnavigated in a day by scooter (72 km). The highlights:
- Cambugahay Falls: Three-tiered cascades with turquoise water and a Tarzan vine for jumping in. The most beautiful waterfall in the Visayas.
- Salagdoong Beach: Cliff diving from 5 and 10 meters into crystal-clear water.
- Lazi Church & Convent (1884): One of the largest monasteries from the Spanish colonial period, UNESCO tentative list.
- Century-Old Balete Tree: A giant, 400-year-old Balete tree (strangler fig) with a natural fish pond at its roots, where doctor fish exfoliate your feet.
- Paliton Beach: Quiet beach with coconut palms — the most photogenic spot on the island.
Siquijor is small, quiet, and affordable. There are no chain hotels, no nightlife (except for a few beach bars), no hustle and bustle. That's exactly what makes it appealing. The island is reachable in 45 minutes by FastCraft from Dumaguete (200 PHP).
💡 Tipp
Rent a scooter and ride around the entire island — it only takes 2–3 hours without stops, but with all the waterfalls and beaches, it becomes a full day. Stay at least 2 nights. The best accommodations are on the west coast (San Juan).
