27/01/2025
10 THINGS TO DO IN CARAMOAN
1. While El Nido has island-hopping tours A, B, C, and D, Caramoan has its own version of island-hopping packages as well. Short Trip Island Hopping(Matukad,Lahus, Cagbalinad, and Minalaghus Island) For the Long trip Island Hopping(Guinauhan Light House, Cutivas Island, Manlawi Sandbar and Sabitan Laya Island.
2. Explore the Caves of Caramoan
Check out the the beautiful limestone formations at Omang Cave situated between Barangay Paniman and Barangay Ilawod. This cave is part of Caramoan National Park and offers interesting stalactite formations. Then hunt for treasure in Manipis Cave at Barangay Pandanan, rumored to be the hiding place of General Yamash*ta’s treasure. If you haven’t had enough, head to Culapnit Cave in Sitio Bariw to see more limestone rocks, stalactite pillars, and thousands of bats. Its name is derived from the vernacular word “kulapnit” which means “bat”. If bats and guano aren’t your thing, cool down and get refreshed in the underground stream of Bulang Bulang Cave in Taisan.
3. Climb the Rock Cliff at Matukad Island
Climbing the sharp rocks of Matukad Island is a bit of a challenge but you will be rewarded with a sweeping view of the surrounding seascapes and a chance to see the so-called enchanted lagoon, where you will find one huge Milkfish swimming around as if guarding its mystical abode.
4. Climb Up the Shrine of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary
Head to Caglago Mountain at Barangay Tabgon and scale the 524 steps to the Shrine of the Blessed Virgin Mary– the largest Marian statue in the country. This 26-foot image is lit up at night and acts like a lighthouse guiding fishermen back to the shore. The shrine also offers a panoramic view of the surrounding islands.
5. Explore the Town
Get acquainted with Caramoan by exploring it on foot or by renting a habal-habal (motorbike). The town is laid-back and the people are friendly. Check out the local market, the municipal hall, the mangrove area, the swamp, and the small shops at Centro (town center). It is pleasant to explore the countryside on foot, especially in the late afternoon when the harsh rays are long gone. There is no traffic, the air is fresh and the setting becomes more lush and rustic as you wander further off the road.
6. Hang Out at Paniman Beach
Paniman Beach, although popular as a jump-off point for island-hopping is a destination in itself and is an alternative place to hang out to aside from the town proper. There aren’t really many places to go to at night after you’re done with island hopping and town exploration. There are few restaurants where you can drink and belt out some tunes or you can buy your drinks and snacks at the town proper and have a picnic here until sunset.
7. Visit the Parish Church of St. Michael the Archangel
Just a stone’s throw away from the town center, lovers of old churches and architecture should add St. Michael Parish Church to their list of things to see. This red brick church in a vast courtyard with a well-manicured lawn is hard to miss. It was founded in 1619 by Franciscan Missionaries and had undergone series of renovations through the years. (Location: Barangay Solnopan)
8. Bird Watching at Caramoan National Park
Get up close with nature and spot diverse local and migrant birds in the park. This pristine parkland is home to a variety of tropical birds (pigeons and hornbills), water fowl (mallard and egrets) and birds of prey ( eagles, hawks and kites)
9. Visit Saraon Falls and Layahan Waterfalls
Saraon Falls at Barangay Cadong and Layahan Falls at Barangay Hanopol are fairly unexplored areas and are still off the radar of mainstream tourists as of now.
10. Camp on one of the Islands
Camping on one of the secluded beaches is highly recommended for beach bums and nature lovers. You can explore the surrounding cliffs, snorkel as much as you want, laze on the beach, sunbathe, and swim like there is no tomorrow. It’s free and fun, just make sure to have enough provisions, a first aid kit, mosquito repellent, sunblock and snorkeling gear.
Come and Chill
