BUKILAT CAVE. One of the beautiful caves Camotes has to offer.

Camotes Islands

Home to stunning white sand beaches, Camotes Islands have become one of the most sought-after travel destinations during summer time. Little did people know, aside from these stunning white beaches, there are also other beautiful forms of nature found on the island such as caves and lakes. Filipinos, as well as foreigners from all over the world, come to visit and see for themselves the islands’ beauty.

The Camotes Islands or also known as “Lost Horizon of the South” are situated in the eastern part of the Cebu Island. It can be reached through a two-hour sea travel by the super shuttle ferry and ships from Cebu.

The Camotes Islands are comprised of three islands and an islet namely: Poro, Pacijan, Ponson and Tulang.

Wonder what makes Camotes one of a kind? Keep on reading and together, let’s witness its grandeur!

How to get there

The Camotes Islands can be reached through the shipping lines located at Danao Port.To reach Danao, you have the options of riding a #27 jeepney, by taxi or by bus. Choose whichever you find convenient.

Upon arriving the port, choose the trip schedulethat you desire and get your tickets at the ticketing booth. I suggest if you are a student or senior citizen, bring your IDs to avail discount. Also, arrive at the port earlier than your scheduled time of trip in order to buy the tickets easily. If you have a car with you, remember to bring the necessary requirements needed.

Nature at its finest

Upon arriving at Consuelo one is greeted with bountiful stunning forms of nature. There are blooming flowers that are very pleasing to the eye. There are also plenty of luscious green trees that serve as shade to people who want to rest. Some of the residents put hammocks under these trees so they may be able to relax and take a rest during the afternoon.

Since the island is surrounded by the sea, the natives also make dried fishes to sell and eat to sustain their daily needs. There are plenty of farmlands where different varieties of crops are planted.

There are also animals like goat, cow, poultry, and carabaos that are well taken care of by the people living in the area. The natives are very friendly and will always greet you with a smile on their face.

Exploring the Islands

Timubo Cave

Found in Barangay Sonog, Camotes, an astonishing cave named as Timubo Cave is situated. The cave is difficult to find so make sure you have your maps or ask the natives and they will be more than happy to give you directions.

The pathway going down the cave is a bit long so prepare for a long walk. Good thing there are lights along the way that brighten up the path. The entrance is also a bit small so be careful in entering the cave. There are stairs that might be slippery so make sure to watch your steps, watch your head and hold on to the railings.

The stalactites and stalagmites sparkle in the darkness and both are pleasing to the eyes. The cave is truly one of a kind. Before reaching the larger pool inside the cave, you need to cross a small pool of water which is knee deep. The water is clear and very inviting that will make you want to swim in it.

To maintain the beauty of the place, there are rules to follow such as not bringing foods and drinks. Also, the water is deep so if you are not a good swimmer or you have children with you, swim at your own risks.

Lake Danao

Located in Pacijan Island, Lake Danao remains as one of the most visited tourist destinations in the island.

The magnificent lake fascinates the tourists and visitors. Lake Danao has a legend behind it which is about the story of Isyong and Isyang, a couple who has decided to stop speaking to each other after a disagreement. Under a certain circumstance, thunder came and heavy rains followed and poured. Water rose up which made the town became flooded.

Isyong and Isyang ran in different directions but after a while, they realized that they are running towards each other. Upon realizing, they ran again to different directions to avoid contact with one another causing their paths to form loops and trapping water inside causing two islets to be formed.

In the present, there are rides such as pedal boats, water bicycles, and water balloons to give the residents a fun-filled experience during their visit. With its picturesque view, the lake is a must visit for everyone who wishes to take a tip to Camotes.

Bukilat Cave

An underground cave situated at Barangay McArthur is popularly visited by tourists and locals. The cave is called Bukilat Cave and was named after the person who first resided the area.

The cave was said to be former hiding place to the inhabitants during the battles in the past. With its rich history, the cave also served as place where masses and other sacraments are celebrated.

The seven natural windows also allow light to pass through and brighten up the cave. With its beautiful stalactites and stalagmites, the locals encourage the taking care of it which includes following the do's and avoiding the don’ts.

Some of the do’s are leaving the foods and liquor in the cottages and disposing of trash in the designated garbage bins.

The things to avoid are bonfires, shouting, vandalism, and taking pictures with camera flash. The “no taking of pictures with camera flash” enables the animals living inside the cave not to be disturbed and disrupted.

Santiago White Beach and Mangodlong Rock

SANTIAGO WHITE BEACH. A paradise like beach with pristine waters and white sand.

Situated in Barangay Santiago , Camotes, Santiago White Beach has remained as one of the most spectacular beaches in Camotes. With its fine white sand and pristine waters, looking at its seascape truly warms one’s heart. The beach is owned by the Local Government Unit of Camotes. The entrance is free and that everyone can stay and enjoy its beauty without spending money.

There are several huts and cottages where the visitors can stay while watching the view. There is also a basketball court nearby where people can play sports. If you desire to explore its seas, you may want to rent a “Bangka” or boat. There is also a karaoke available if you want to sing and enjoy. Don’t worry about the food, for there are restaurants nearby but if you want to bring your own, it is okay as long as you throw your garbage properly in the designated bins.

Another white sand beach that is visited by the locals and tourists is the Mangodlong Rock Resort which is located in Mangodlong, Heminsulan, San Francisco. Just like the Santiago White beach, it also displays fine what sand and perfect clear waters. However, since it is a resort you need to pay the entrance fee which I will be posting down below.

If you wish to take a dip in the pool, there is a pool nearby. There is also a restaurant inside the resort to fill your hungry stomach.

MANGODLONG BEACH. One of the most sought after beaches in the island.

There is an octopus-shaped slide which gives enjoyment to the people who wish to visit. There are other plenty white sand beaches on the island and they all have one thing in common: all of the beaches look like paradise.

The water is so clear and inviting that one cannot resist on swimming in it. The white sand beaches are also alluring where people want to lie down and relax. Camotes Island is indeed the home to beautiful white sand beaches.

Budget and Rates

Fare

Danao to Consuelo,Camotes Fare : 220 php (Regular) , 176 php (Student)
Consuelo,Camotes to Danao Fare : 220 php (Regular) , 176 php (Student)
Terminal Fee: 5 php

Lake Danao

Entrance Fee: 15 php (Adult ),5 php (Child)
Pedal Boat: 50 php/person (30 mins.)
Water Bicycle: 50 php/person (30 mins.)
Water Balloon: 50php/person (30 mins.)

Bukilat Cave

Entrance Fee: 20 php (Adult ),5 php (5-10 years old)

Santiago White Beach

Entrance Fee: None
Kiosk Rental: 250 php
Concrete Table: 200 php
Tent Environmental Fees
Family Tent: 200 php
Medium Tent: 150 php
Small Tent: 100 php

Mangodlong Rock Resort

Entrance Fee: 20 php (Adult), 10 php (8 years old and below)
Shower: 15 php
Food and Drinks Corkage: 500 php
Lechon Corkage: 500 php
Slide: 100 php
Volleyball Rental Fee: 100 php/hour
Griller Rental Fee: 100 php
Cottage Rental Fee: 500 php (small), 1000 php (big)
Swimming Pool: 100 php (Adult), 50 php (Children)

Timubo Cave

Entrance Fee: 30 php

_{Note: Prices are subject to change so make sure to bring extra money.}

Do's and Don'ts

In visiting Camotes Islands, we should always follow the rules in order to maintain the beauty of the place and bear in mind important reminders.

Do's:

1. In visiting the caves, watch your steps because the stairs are slippery. Also, watch your head.
2. Bring with you your necessities to save money such as snacks and drinks. For caves, leave them in the places where they are allowed like cottages.
3. When traveling, bring your IDs if you are a student or a senior citizen to avail discount for fares. Keep the medicines in your bag compartments where they are easy to reach.

Don'ts:

1. Don't throw your garbage anywhere. Throw them in the designated areas.
2. In visiting caves, avoid taking pictures with camera flashes to not disturb the animals inside. Some areas of the caves are well lit and have lights to brighten the pathways so flashes are no longer necessary.
3. Don't touch the stalactites and stalagmites inside the cave.

Points to Ponder

Camotes is one of the most beautiful places I have visited. Visiting it really made me connect and be one with nature. The foods are delicious and the people are very friendly. I have found peace and relaxation on my 3-day stay in the island. My favorite part of the trip was visiting the caves because it was my first time to go inside caves.

The locals took care and maintained its beauty. It is our task as visitors to follow the rules and bear in mind the reminders in order to not spoil the island. Will I come back? Absolutely! How about you? Have you visited Camotes? If so, share your experiences below, I look forward to reading all of it!

Until next time! @reewritesthings _{All photos are taken by myself. References:1,2,3}