Siquijor

Introducing Siquijor

Siquijor is located south of Cebu City and Haiho Island. It is the third smallest island province in the Philippines and is located south of Cebu City and Bohol Island. When people mention Siquijor, they will think of witchcraft and mysterious and primitive witchcraft rituals.

The first sentence of Lonely Planet's introduction to Siquijor is: For most Filipinos, Siquijor is like a mysterious, unknown, magical world. For this reason, people are full of curiosity about Siquijor.

This is a place to truly experience vacation. Unlike other popular islands with people coming and going, here you can see few people around. Only the hotel bar by the beach is playing leisure music, and a few foreigners are lying on hammocks reading books and tasting the sea urchins and sea cucumbers freshly caught by the locals.

Climate and best time to travel

The climate is tropical, with two seasons throughout the year: dry season and rainy season. The dry season is from November to May of the following year, with dry weather, making it the best time to travel.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 2-3 days

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Most Popular FAQs for Siquijor

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Siquijor is a small island province in the Central Visayas region, known historically for its mystic traditions, healing practices, and folklore. Spanish colonization left architectural landmarks such as Lazi Church, reflecting the island’s cultural heritage. Today, it is celebrated for its natural beauty and eco-tourism.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Siquijor is accessible by ferry from Dumaguete (Negros Oriental) or Bohol. Once on the island, local transportation includes tricycles, motorcycles, and rental scooters. Taxis are limited, and walking is possible within small towns.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Most attractions are open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
• Best time to visit is during the dry season from March to June for beaches and waterfalls.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

• Many natural sites like beaches and waterfalls have a small fee (PHP 20–100) paid on-site.
• Diving or snorkeling tours are booked through dive shops (PHP 1,500–2,500) and may be arranged online or offline.
• Historical sites like Lazi Church may request voluntary donations.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For diving, snorkeling, and resort accommodations, it is recommended to book 1–2 weeks in advance. Most natural attractions can be visited without prior booking.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

• 3–4 days to cover main beaches, waterfalls, and historical sites.
• Extra days for diving, island hopping, or cultural experiences.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Salagdoong Beach and Paliton Beach.
• Cambugahay Falls and Lazi Church & Convent.
• Balete Tree and Cantabon Cave.
• Marine sanctuaries around Apo Island.
• Traditional healing and mystic ritual spots.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Local guided tours are available, usually in English and Filipino. Audio guides are not commonly offered.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Paliton Beach and Salagdoong Beach at sunrise or sunset.
• Cambugahay Falls and other waterfalls.
• Balete Tree with fish spa area.
• Scenic coastal roads and cliffside views around the island.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Day 1: Arrival and explore Salagdoong & Paliton Beach; Day 2: Cambugahay Falls and Lazi Church; Day 3: Apo Island snorkeling/diving; Day 4: Visit Balete Tree and local villages.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Most attractions operate during the day. Some resorts may offer evening bonfires, cultural nights, or night swimming at private beaches.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Tourist crowd peaks during Easter and summer (March–May). Least crowded times are weekdays during the rainy season (July–October).

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Beaches and waterfalls generally have basic restrooms and picnic areas.
• Restaurants and cafes available in main towns and resorts.
• Souvenir shops and convenience stores are found in tourist hubs.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Many natural attractions require climbing stairs or uneven terrain. Beaches and main roads are generally accessible. Wheelchair access is limited in waterfalls and caves.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash in Philippine Pesos is preferred. Cards are accepted at resorts and larger restaurants, but smaller shops and local attractions usually only take cash.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Beachfront cafes and small local eateries in Siquijor town and Larena.
• Resort restaurants on Paliton Beach and Salagdoong Beach.
• Local food stands offering Filipino snacks and seafood.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are limited but available at resorts and some cafes. Halal options are rare and may require prior inquiry.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Beach resorts on Paliton Beach and Salagdoong Beach.
• Guesthouses and boutique hotels in Siquijor town and Larena.
• Eco-lodges near waterfalls and forested areas.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Apo Island for snorkeling/diving.
• Cantabon Cave and Balete Tree.
• Historical Lazi Church & Convent.
• Local villages and small waterfalls along coastal roads.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Handmade crafts, woven bags, and local textiles.
• Local food products like dried mangoes and coconut-based sweets.
• Small trinkets and jewelry sold in towns and resorts.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Ferries to Dumaguete or Bohol for onward travel.
• Motorbike or tricycle rentals for exploring nearby areas.
• Flights via Dumaguete Airport for domestic connections.