Faith is not something we always see in tropical island destinations. The island of Camiguin, however, is different. After all, in a land where seven volcanoes lie, faith goes a long way. The faith and devotion of the people of Camiguin is apparent in many of its most popular attractions such as those in Catarman — the Walkway to the Old Volcano and the Sunken Cemetery.
View from the road on the way to Catarman from Mambajao, Camiguin
Seated comfortably in the multi-cab that we hired for the day, I moved closer to the window to let the wind blow my hair dry. Coming from Ardent Hot Springs and Katibawasan Falls in the capital Mambajao, we were now headed for Catarman. But the wind was not the only thing pleasant about this trip. The road to Catarman provided spectacular view of Camiguin’s coastline.
Camiguin’s stunning rocky and coconut-y coastline
From the road we could see the island’s rocky shores where coconut trees lined up and swayed like giant arms waving to us. Although at times I felt the drive was a little dangerous as we drove on the edges of the cliffs, none of it mattered the moment we caught a glimpse of the scenic landscape.
The Walkway to the Old Volcano (Mt. Vulcan)
The slope of Mount Vulcan gets filled with prayers especially during Holy Week when the Panaad Festival happens. Devotees and tourists alike climb a series of steps which eventually becomes a mildly difficult hike. Along the way are statues depicting the 14 Stations of the Cross. These figures are about life-size and painted white, very easy to spot. Although the start of the trail was under the canopy of trees skirting the walk way, there were parts where they disappeared and we had to face the heat of the sun. It got tiring as we went on but the view from the top was simply breathtaking and was worth every step.
The first, bottom steps of the walkway
Start hiking to the top! It was easy at this point…
The first station: Jesus is condemned to death.
Part of Station 1, and Station 2: Jesus carries the cross.
I honestly do not remember which station this belongs to…
Under the shade! Ah, love the trees!
Lots of steps!
The Sunken Cemetery
Mount Vulcan has erupted so many times before. Also known as the Old Volcano, Mt. Vulcan erupted in 1827 and 1862, which claimed hundreds of lives. In 1871, it had another eruption, this time causing the island’s old capital (during the Spanish era) sink underwater. One of the places that got soaked was the old community cemetery, which still emerged when the tide was low in the years following the disaster.
But the story doesn’t end there yet.
Signage by the entrance to the Sunken Cemetery
Stairs down to the beach from the Viewing Deck, one of the more recent developments in the site
Tourists on a boat on the way to the Cross that marks the Sunken Cemetery
In 1948 and 1953, the old volcano demonstrated its immense power again, sinking the cemetery deeper under the sea. Today, it lies 20 feet below the surface. Corals has grown on and around tombstones and marine life has flourished, making it a unique and extraordinary diving destination. Marking the spot is a giant cross built on hardened lava in 1982.
The Sunken Cemetery and the Walkway to the Old Volcano - Catarman, Camiguin, Philippines,
Sunken cemetery sa beach? Ayos! Hahahaha swimming with the dead
see you 2morrow,sunken cemetery!!
Woot! Let us know what you think after your trip!
i loved staying in camiguin! i have to go back someday!
In camiguin island may hot spring swimming pool s mambajao
cold spring and sulfur water swimming @ sto nino catarman withn the municipality u cn vsit the Ruin of Guiob church,walkway to volcano and the sunken cemtry,
may white sand beach pa.. With dlicious Pastel of camiguin..:)
Whew! Thanks for enumerating Camiguin’s top tourist destinations!
Yeah I really miss Pastel with all its sweet creamy fillings! I’ll be back one day, Camiguin!
Yes!!! I love the yema filling, too!
Been there during the Lanzones Festival last year, not much harvest though, but it was great. We’ll definitely return
Aw, we haven’t experienced Lanzones Festival! We’ll try to go back!
i’m so proud of my province
You live in a beautiful place, Eirene!
not that impressive. I love Camiguin but this place is no more than a tourist trap.
agree the place is just too small, i just like the fact n naalala ko ung creepy scene sa Ouija plus ung sskay k ng maliit n bangka in order to get there
Any recommended hotel or hostel around?for a poor traveler?im planning to pay a visit. By plane or bus ride?
Haven’t been there yet.. I’m so excited already by just the thought of paying Camiguin a visit.. Pretty soon..
Woot! Have an awesome time in Camiguin!