Siquijor Tourist Spots

As you visit its top destinations, you will be under a spell of its beauty. 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 a 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.

Cambugahay Falls

The Cambugahay Falls is the top tourist attraction in Lazi, Siquijor. It is a 3-tiered waterfall with a free flowing cool and crystal clear waters. The area is surrounded with luscious greens that create a relaxing ambiance. If you want a thrilling experience, why not try the prominent "tarzan swing." Get a water massage! Water raft can be rented, with a local, to go to the spot where the waters are falling. Brace yourself because the sound of the rushing water will make your day a lazy day. Also, locals are great photographers.

Guiwanon Spring Park Resort, Siquijor

The Guiwanon Spring Park Resort is a man made resort situated in the middle of a mangrove forest in Luyang, Siquijor. Tourists need to walk on the pathway made of wood, passing by some of the cottages that can be rented. The picturesque in the area is good because of the greens, accentuated by the trunk and roots of the mangrove plants. 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.

Tori's Backpackers Paradise

Tori's Backpackers Paradise is the cheapest place to stay in Siquijor. At their small reception area, the receptionist greeted with the genuine "Good Morning, Sir!" and a smile. That very moment, I thought that this place is perfect. For an overnight stay, I only paid 350 pesos, great deal, right? This resort is backpackers friendly because of its cheap price and they have a dormitory type room where visitors can meet other visitors. I was just sad because my visit was off season and there were only three visitors in the resort. If you want privacy, that's not a problem because they also private rooms.

Siquijor Church

The Siquijor Church greets all the visitors as it is situated near the port. It was established in 1783 by the secular priests. It was built using coral stones and initially used cogon for roofing. What's unique about this church is the bell tower built a few meters away. Like some other old churches in the Philippines,  its convent served as the hiding place from the pirates and other invaders. Today, it is the center of Catholicism in the province but for a non-Catholic like me, this church is the living witness of the past survived by the province and its people.

Salagdoong Beach

Salagdoong Beach is a prominent beach destination in Siquijor, so expect tourists. I can't deny that this beach has crystal clear waters with a fine white sand shoreline but there are sharp stones and corals. Want a more thrilling experience? This beach has two cliff jump stations that you can try. The ambiance in the area is relaxing because of the man-made landscape which is also picture-perfect. Your day will be ended with a stunning sunset with the cool sea breeze blowing.

Lazi Church and Convent

I was stunned by the appearance of Lazi Church and the Convent which are the main tourist destinations in Lazi, Siquijor. The parish became independent in 1857 but the current stone structure, with neoclassical art, was completed in 1884. It was built using the sea stones, coral stones and wood. In 1972, it was declared as a national cultural heritage. Today, it is newly renovated with the walls covered with white.

Century Old Balete Tree, Siquijor

The Century Old Balete Tree is one of the faces of Siquijor and must visit in the province. It is a fig tree family or known as the "stranger tree" because it grows beside other trees and sometimes kill 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, this old tree, according to stories, is mythical.

Backpacking Guide: Tourist Spots in Negros Oriental, Siquijor, Bohol

MONEY ON HAND: 10,424.00
TOTAL EXPENSES: 11,015.84 PESOS
EXPENSES WITHOUT AIRFARE: 9,175.4 PESOS
Flights via Cebu Pacific: MNL-DGT - 627.84 Pesos. TAG-MNL: 1,212.60 Pesos