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| Photo: Top tourist attractions in Siquijor. |
1. Capilay Spring Park
It was a few minute's travel from the port, where I was welcomed by a strong thunderstorm. I had no choice but to bring out my raincoat and use it. This spring park has a pool with three chambers. The free-flowing fresh water is cool, can quench the striking sun's heat and helps tired muscles. This place serves as a venue for family gatherings with beautiful landscapes, cottages, and shots.
2. Tori's Backpackers Paradise
Before we started my adventure, we headed to an affordable place to check in and stay in Siquijor. My backpacking was off-season, so I was the only one occupying the dorm with 8 double deck beds. We waited for the thunderstorm to stop and headed to our first destination.
3. Century-Old Balete Tree
This tree is one of the faces of Siquijor province. A "balete" is a fig tree family known as the "stranger tree" because it grows beside other trees and sometimes kills the host tree by strangling them. In Philippine folklore, balete is the house of the tikbalang (horse demon), dwende (elves) and diwata (fairies). Having said that, the old balete tree, according to stories, is mythical like the other balete trees. On its base, there's a pool filled with cool and crystal clear spring water where the fish doctors swim around. If you dip your feet, they will eat your dead skin. Potion and souvenirs are available. Entrance fees are to be collected.
4. Lazi Convent
5. Lazi Church
This church is in front of the Lazi Convent. The parish became independent in 1857, but the current stone structure, which is neoclassical art, was built in 1884. It was built using the sea stones, coral stones and wood. Today, it is newly renovated, with the walls covered with white.
6. Cambugahay Falls
This majestic waterfall is another gem of the province. It is a 3-tiered waterfall with free-flowing cool and crystal clear waters. The area is surrounded by luscious greens that create a relaxing ambience. And, if you want a thrilling experience, you can try the "tarzan swing." Get a water massage! Water rafts can be rented, with a local, to go to the spot where the waters are falling. The locals are also great photographers. Entrance fees are to be collected.
7. Maria Church
8. The Witch Broom
Creating an itinerary for visiting all the Siquijor Tourist Spots is easy. You can charter a habal driver to bring you to all the beautiful places on the island. Photoshoot with witch broom is one of the newest destinations. As previously mentioned, the province is known for its witchcraft, so a private residence built a platform where tourists can take a snap photo riding on a witch broom.
9. Salagdoong Beach
This beach is a prominent destination, so expect for people. I can't deny that it has crystal clear waters and a fine white sand shoreline, but sharp stones exist. Want a more thrilling experience? The resort has two cliff jump stations that you can try. Restaurants, rooms, toilets and baths are available. Before reaching this gorgeous place, you will pass the beautiful Molave forest.
10. Guiwanon Spring Park
A man-made resort situated in the middle of a mangrove forest. Tourists need to walk on the wooden pathway, passing by some of the cottages that can be rented. The scenery in the area is good because of the greens, accentuated by the trunk and roots of the mangrove plants. At the end of the park is an open hall where you can stay and relax with the cool sea breeze. Entrance fees are to be collected.
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| Photo: Smile, Selfie at Talingting. |
11. Siquijor Church
This historical church greets all the visitors as it is near the port. It was established in 1783 by the secular priests. It was built using coral stones, and cogon was initially used for roofing. What's unique about this church is that the bell tower was built a few meters from the church, and its convent served as a hiding place from pirates.
You will be under a spell of its beauty as you visit its top destinations. Siquijor Province is known as the "Esla del Fuego" or the "island of fire" because of the mystical fireflies. It is believed that if you see these luminous lights, it is an indication that magic is taking place. By the way, if the province of Capiz is known for their "aswang" and "manananggal," this province is commonly known as "Siquihorror" because of the shamanism and witchcraft. Regardless if it's true or not, I was enchanted by this mystical province.
I met Kuya Leo at the port, a habal driver forward slash a tour guide, as referred by Jay - my friend. We walked to the main gate from the port, where he parked his motorcycle. Because I was bald and wearing a stripe pink sando, a magenta-coloured bag, and a shade, we captured the attention of the people we passed by the streets. Anyway, the sun was hot until we reached our first destination.
After the tiring expedition, Kuya Leo dropped me off at Tori's Backpackers Paradise. Tidy up and enjoy the serene ambience of the resort. The rain stopped, so I had a chance to witness the stunning golden sunset. Had my dinner at Tori's restaurant. READ: My Solo-Backpacking in Negros Oriental, Siquijor, and Bohol
How to Get to Siquijor:
- How to Get Here and My Solo-Backpacking in Siquijor.
- By Air: From Manila, you can fly to Dumaguete City, Cebu, or Bohol. Then, either way, you will take a ferry ride to Siquijor.
- What I did was booked a flight from Manila to Dumaguete Airport because it was cheaper and my backpacking was a tri-province. From Dumaguete Airport, chartered a tricycle to Dumaguete Port. Then, a fast craft ferry to Siquijor.