SUMMARY:
Caramoan Islands is a group of islands isolated from the rest of Camarines Sur. It is home to various Survivor franchises, which in fact, made Caramoan a popular destination site to both local and foreign tourists.
We were fortunate enough to have our trip dated way back in 2010. In the islands that we entered, it is either we were the only occupants, or with just one or two small of groups of tourists.
Me and my travel buddy, Sharon
On the first day, there were delays in our transportation. Our plane didn't leave Manila on time. From the airport, we took a jeepney which brought us to Philcab van terminal, which brought us to Sabang Port. Due to the relatively big waves, and a really unpredictable weather, what was supposed to be a two-hour boat ride became three hours for us because of the weather condition.
at the front desk of Rex Tourist Inn
We had an early start the next day for our island hopping activity. We were able to explore four islands of Caramoan:
- Matukad Island
- Cagbalinad Island
- Manlawi Sandbar in Lahuy Island
- Sabitang Laya Island
There are actually more islands to visit, so maybe I'll do it next time, and with a few days more. I have another itinerary in mind, which includes Gota Village Resort and Hunongan Cave.
Before going back to Caramoan proper, we passed by Brgy. Tabgon, and climbed the 500+ steps to reach the top of Mt. Caglago where the grotto of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary is located.
On our last day, we passed by St. Michael the Archangel Parish Church before heading to Guijalo Port.
We were conscious of the time because of our desire to see the famous Camsur Watersports Complex. Although we didn't try wake boarding and wake skating activities of the cable park, that left us with more reasons to return to Camarines Sur. We had a quick lunch before going to the airport for our afternoon flight.
If Boracay is for the party people, Caramoan is for those who want to muni-muni and break free from the stressful Manila life. This may be the water equivalent of Sagada.
And in summary, the trip was worth all the travel inconveniences, the fear, the paranoia, and everything in between. Caramoan gave me a new perspective: to be hungry for adventure, to appreciate life and everything it offers, and to just let go.
EXPENSES:
Since it's just the two of us, our tour package for each person is 5,500 pesos. Included in our package are:
- full hotel accommodations (three days, two nights)
- Air-con room (two single beds) with cable TV, and with private toilet and bath
- Use of other hotel facilities for tourists and guests
- Full meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner from check in to check out)
- Private boat for island hopping
- Personal tour guide
- Hotel transfer to and from Guijalo Port
- Hotel transportation to destination sites (St. Michael's Church, Mt. Caglago, souvenir shops)
5,500 - tour package per person
1,500 - round trip air fare
100 - van from Naga to Sabang Port
120 - boat from Sabang Port to Guijalo Port
600 - souvenirs and pasalubongs (pili nut candies, sandos, key chains)*
250 - tip to our tour guide (500pesos/2pax)
120 - boat from Guijalo Port to Sabang Port
100 - van from Sabang Port to Naga
250 - lunch at Camsur Watersports Complex
200 - souvenir items from CWC*
8,740 pesos - GRAND TOTAL
As I've said, this is not exactly a budget travel since we were newbie travelers. We availed ourselves a tour package, and our air fare is not exactly on sale. But then again, I hope this entry will help you with your Caramoan itinerary. My tour in Caramoan is actually the trip which made me starve for adventure. This started my passion for travelling.
CONTACTS:
Gota Village Resort
Manila Liaison Office
2F Bldg. 11, La Fuerza Plaza Compound
2241 Don Chino Roces Ave., Makati City
(+632) 817-0831
(0909) 954-7889
villadelreyreservation@gmail.com
Camsur Provincial Tourism Office
(+6354) 477-3344
(+6354) 477-3347
Camsur Watersports Complex Office
Provincial Capitol Complex
Cadlan, Pili, Camarines Sur
(+6354) 477-3349
(0917) 895-4156 or (0999) 889-3697
villadelrayreservation@gmail.com
Rex Tourist Inn Tour Coordintor: Owen Casimiro
(0915) 329-5658 (0917) 483-7199
(0919) 882-1879 (+632) 453-0754
owen99ph@yahoo.com
Transport Coordinator: Chris Semata
(0906) 948-5829
(0906) 948-5829
1,200 pesos for a 12-seater van
Naga City airport or bus terminal to Sabang Port
Here is the list of entries of our 3-Day Caramoan Islands Tour:
