Caramoan's popularity rose when it became one of the locations of the hit TV series Survivor. This destination was chosen because of its raw beauty and middle-of-nowhere appeal. I visited these group of islands and enjoyed my trip at that time. The islands were pristine and the views beautiful. There were times when our group was the only one visiting an island. Our boatman pointed out some of the sites where the cast set up camp.
If you're planning to visit, read my budget and itinerary for Caramoan.
Island Hopping in Caramoan
Island hopping is the primary reason people visit Caramoan. The islands (at least the one's I visited) were, simply put, beautiful. The powdery white sand, azure and clear waters, and the towering limestone formations added to Caramoan's allure.
Climb the rock formations to get a glimpse of Matukad Lagoon.
Upon arrival, you can take a short walk to reach Tayak Lagoon.
Other islands include:
Your jump-off point to island hopping is Bikal Port. Chartering a boat costs between P1500 to P4000 depending on the islands you'll visit. I suggest breaking your trip into two days to enjoy each stop.
Where to Stay in Caramoan
You have some options when you spend the night in town. You can find a place to stay regardless of your budget.
How to Go to Caramoan
Caramoan is easily accessible from Metro Manila because of direct flights to Naga and several buses that travel south to Naga. There are also many flights from Manila to Naga. If you take the flight, you might have to leave the next day for Caramoan. So I recommend just taking the overnight bus.
Via Naga
Philtranco, Isarog, Penafrancia and Raymond are bus companies that regularly ply the route from Manila to Naga Terminal. Fare is around P600 to P800 depending on the bus type you board. Trip takes approximately nine hours.
From Naga's bus terminal, hop on a tricycle to the van terminal behind SM fare for this is around P10 to P30. Board a van bound for Sabang Port fare is around P150 and the trip may take up to two hours. Vans departing for the port leave at around 6:00am.
After reaching Sabang Port, board a passenger boat going to Guijalo Port, Caramoan. Fare costs P120 and boat ride may take two hours. The last boat leaves at around 11:00am, so better get on one before then. If you miss it, you will have to wait until the next day or rent a boat for around P3000.
You'll pay a P30 environmental fee at the feeder port upon arrival.
Via Sabang Port
You can also catch a bus directly to Sabang Port from Cubao, Alabang or Pasay. The trip takes around 10 hours and costs somewhere between P700 to P800.
After reaching Sabang Port, board a passenger boat going to Guijalo Port, Caramoan. Fare costs P120 and boat ride may take two hours. The last boat leaves at around 11:00am, so better get on one before then. If you miss it, you will have to wait until the next day or rent a boat for around P3000.
You'll pay a P30 environmental fee at the feeder port upon arrival.
Via Catanduanes
You can combine a trip to Catanduanes with Caramoan. There are direct flights from Manila to Virac, Catanduanes. Make your way to Codon Port the tricycle fare is around P300 to P400 for up to four people. You can rent a boat for around P3000 or more to go island hopping in Caramoan. If you want to add more stops, you'll pay more.
Budget for Caramoan
This is a sample budget for your trip to Caramoan.
*Everything's in Philippine Peso
1600 - Round trip bus from Manila to Naga
300 - Round trip van from Naga to Sabang Port
240 - Round trip boat from Sabang Port to Guijalo Port
30 - Environmental fee
800 - Food and drinks
300 - Transportation in Caramoan town
1500 - 2 nights accommodation shared with at least one other person
1250 - Island hopping
6020 - Total
*The total will change depending on the size of your group, how much you eat, where you stay and how many islands you'll visit.
