Springs and Waterfalls in Camiguin
Part of the Camiguin travel guide — see every topic in All Camiguin Guides.
Volcanoes heat the water under Camiguin and also feed many cold, clear springs and mountain streams. The result is an island where you can swim in warm water in the evening and in cold spring water the next morning. Waterfalls drop through the forest on the volcano slopes. These places are easy to visit on a ride around the island.
Ardent Hot Spring
Ardent Hot Spring sits at the foot of Mount Hibok-Hibok, in the hills above Mambajao. Warm water from the volcano flows into a series of pools surrounded by forest. The water is warm rather than very hot, and it feels best in the evening, when the air cools down. Many visitors come after a day of sightseeing or after the Hibok-Hibok hike. There are changing rooms and simple places to eat nearby. Opening hours and pool conditions can change, and the site has closed for work in the past, so check locally before you go.
Sto. Niño Cold Spring
Sto. Niño Cold Spring is in Catarman, on the west side of the island. It is a large, clear pool fed by cold water that rises from the ground. The water is very fresh and cool, which feels great on a hot day. You can see the sandy bottom and small fish. Some parts are deep, so swim with care. It is a popular place for local families, especially on weekends and holidays, so visit on a weekday morning if you want it quieter. There are cottages and simple food stalls near the pool.
Katibawasan Falls
Katibawasan Falls is a tall, thin waterfall that drops more than 50 metres down a rock wall into a cool pool. It is a short drive into the hills from Mambajao, and an easy path leads from the entrance to the pool through forest and ferns. You can swim in the pool, but the water is cold, and you should stay away from the area right under the falling water. The falls look strongest after rain. Go early in the day for fewer people and softer light.
Tuasan Falls
Tuasan Falls is in the southwest of the island, inland from Catarman. It is smaller than Katibawasan, about 20 metres high, but it has a lot of power, and the water pours into a wide pool surrounded by big rocks and jungle. The road in passes farms and forest, and the walk from the parking area is short. The water is cold and clear. The rocks are slippery, so wear sandals with good grip. Combine it with Sto. Niño Cold Spring and Mount Vulcan on a west-side day.
Tips for visiting
Each spring and waterfall charges a small entry fee, so bring small notes. Weekends can be busy with local visitors, while weekday mornings are calm. Wear water shoes or sandals for rocky paths and pools. Do not use soap or shampoo in the springs or rivers. Keep valuables in a dry bag and do not leave them alone on the rocks. If heavy rain falls, stay away from rivers and waterfalls, as water levels can rise fast. A rented motorbike or a hired driver makes it easy to visit several places in one day.
Springs and Waterfalls at a glance
| Getting there | By motorbike, motorela or hired driver on the loop road |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daytime for most sites; hot spring often open into the evening |
| Cost | Small entry fee at each site |
| Best time | Weekday mornings; hot spring in the evening |
| Katibawasan | Over 50 m tall, in the hills above Mambajao |
| Bring | Water shoes, towel, small notes, dry bag |