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Camotes Tourist Inn

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Camotes Tourist Inn

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CAMOTES TOURIST INN - Updated 2024 Prices, Reviews, and Photos

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CAMOTES TOURIST INN (San Francisco) - B&B Reviews, Photos, Rate Comparison - Tripadvisor

Top Things to Do in Camotes Islands

Things to do in camotes islands.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Bakhaw Beach

2. Bukilat Cave

3. Santiago White Beach

4. Mangodlong Beach

5. Tulang Diot Island

6. Lake Danao

7. Santiago Bay Beach

8. Timubo Cave

9. Busay Falls

10. Buho Rock

11. Timubo Cave

12. Holy Crystal Cave

13. Paraiso Cave

14. Borromeo Beach

15. Buho Rock Beach

16. Sto. Nino Church

17. Alta Vista Quarry

18. Panganuron Falls

19. Baywalk Trail

20. Mt. Calvary

21. Giwanon Cave

22. Camotes Freediving

23. Camotes Fun Dive And Leisure

24. Camotes Island Tours

25. Steve Davies Dive Shop

26. Camotes Islands Caves, Beaches, Cliff Diving, and Lake

27. Go diving tour

28. altavista viewpoint, what travelers are saying.

• Tulang Diot Island
• Bukilat Cave
• Santiago Bay Beach
• Mangodlong Beach
• Santiago White Beach
• Timubo Cave
• Paraiso Cave

Camotes Tourist Inn

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CAMOTES TOURIST INN (AU$40): 2024 Prices & Reviews

• Where to Stay

6 Best Hotels in Camotes Islands, Cebu in 2024 (Local and Real Guest Recommendations)

• February 15, 2023
• January 14, 2024
• Camotes Island , North Cebu , Pacijan Island

Wondering where to stay in Camotes Islands? CEBU INSIDER has carefully curated the best hotels in Camotes Islands in 2023.

Our hotel recommendations are based on our personal experience as well as factors like:

• Location. Is it accessible to basic services?
• Beach access. How far is it from the beach?
• Internet. Is it fast enough to get work done?
• Price. Is it competitive and reasonable?
• Cleanliness. Is it clean, orderly, and well-maintained?
• Staff. Is the staff courteous, polite, and accommodating?

I also want to point out that real guest reviews were a huge factor when we created our Camotes Islands hotel recommendations. Combining all these criteria, here are the best hotels in Camotes Islands, Cebu:

1. Azure Camotes Resort Hotel – Best Beach Resort in Camotes Island

Located in San Francisco, Pacijan Island, Azure Camotes Resort Hotel is the best beach resort in Camotes Islands if you are looking for best-for-you-bang accommodation. In-house facilities include a restaurant, a bar, 3 swimming pools, a garden, a terrace, a balcony with a pool view, and a sea view for some rooms.

Wi-Fi Rating: 8.5/10

Overall Rating: 8.0 10

2. Homa Resort Hotel

Located 9 minutes walk to Santiago Bay Beach and 5 minutes to Santiago Camping Site in Barangay Santiago, San Francisco, Homa Resort Hotel is one of the best resorts in Camotes Islands that nestles in a prime location. It’s near the major tourist spots in Camotes Islands but at the same time secluded enough to enjoy a peaceful vacation.

Homa Resort Hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, a garden, a shared lounge, free private parking, a restaurant, and a bar. It also has a private beach area where you can chill or snorkel.

Wi-Fi Rating: 9.2/10

Overall Rating: 9.5/10

3. Villa Marquez

If you are looking for cheap hotels in Camotes Islands, Villa Marquez ticks the box. Cheap does not mean a bad location or tacky accommodation as Villa Marquez delivers more than its price tag. Located in Barangay Esperanza, San Francisco, it’s only 9 minutes away from Tulang Dako Beach, the jump-off point to Tulang Diot Island.

Villa Marquez’s facilities include a restaurant, a bar, a garden, a terrace, and free private parking. It also has a great view of the ocean.

Wi-Fi Rating: 8.8/10

Overall Rating: 9.1/10

4. Sunset Vista Sea Front Guest House

Sunset Vista Sea Front Guest House is located in Barangay Esperanza, San Francisco, just a 2-minute walk to Esperanza Beach, a 13-minute walk to Bakhaw Beach, and a 3-minute drive to Tulang Dako Beach. It’s a quiet place to stay in and one of the few Pacijan Island hotels with an incredible view of the sunset. 

Back in 2016, I stayed at Sunset Vista for a couple of nights when it was still under construction. Overall, it was a wonderful experience.

Overall Rating: 8.8/10

5. RC Hutspot Tourist Inn – Best Cheap Accommodation in Camotes Islands

If you are looking for budget accommodation, RC Hutpost Tourist Inn is the best place to stay in Camotes Islands. Located in Barangay Sonog, San Francisco, just a 3-minute walk to Timubo Cave and a 6-minute drive to Tulang Dako Beach, RC Hutspot Tourist Inn has cozy private rooms as well as bunk beds.

RC Hutspot Tourist Inn features a restaurant, a garden, a shared kitchen, free private parking, and a balcony with a garden view. Some rooms have a mountain view.

Overall Rating: 9.6/10

6. Camotes Backpackers Hostel

Camotes Backpackers Hostel is the most popular hostel in Camotes Islands since it’s been around for quite a while. It’s located in Barangay Santiago, San Francisco, about a 12-minute walk to Santiago Bay Beach, a 5-minute walk to Batson Beach, and an 8-minute drive to Heminsuland Beach.

Camotes Backpackers Hostel has a restaurant and a bar. They have private rooms and dorm rooms, all airconditioned. If you are looking for a cheap place to stay in Camotes Islands, Camotes Backpackers Hostel is a great option.

Wi-Fi Rating: 9.0/10

That’s all for our 6 Best Hotels in Camotes Islands, Cebu !

For updates, follow CEBU INSIDER on Facebook and Instagram .

Cebu Insider Team

Cebu Insider aims to deliver accurate and up-to-date Philippine travel guides to digital nomads, expats, full-time travelers, and remote workers.

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Top 10 Tourist Spots in Camotes Island

Let’s discover the top 10 tourist spots in Camotes Island. This group of small islands that comprise several municipalities are located off the eastern coast of Cebu in the Philippines. It is a hidden gem known for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and untouched natural beauty. Comprising four main islands—Poro, Pacijan, Ponson, and Tulang—Camotes offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. In this article, we'll unveil the top 10 must-visit tourist spots on Camotes Islands, each showcasing the island's unique charm and inviting visitors to experience its idyllic paradise.

These are the top 10 tourist spots in camotes island

Santiago Bay: Sink your toes into the powdery white sands of Santiago Bay, one of Camotes' most picturesque beaches. With its clear blue waters and stunning sunset views, Santiago Bay is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and beachcombing.

Lake Danao: Explore the serene beauty of Lake Danao, a natural freshwater lake nestled amidst lush forests and rolling hills. Visitors can enjoy boating, kayaking, and fishing on the tranquil waters, or simply relax and picnic by the lakeside.

Buwakan ni Alejandra: Discover the colorful blooms and scenic landscapes of Buwakan ni Alejandra, a botanical garden located in San Francisco, Camotes. With its vibrant flower gardens, picturesque viewpoints, and tranquil ambiance, Buwakan ni Alejandra is a feast for the senses.

Mangodlong Rock Resort: Indulge in luxury and relaxation at Mangodlong Rock Resort, a beachfront oasis offering upscale accommodations, infinity pools, and stunning ocean views. Guests can unwind amidst lush gardens, enjoy water sports activities, and savor delicious seafood cuisine.

Bakhaw Beach: Escape to the secluded beauty of Bakhaw Beach, a hidden gem known for its pristine sands and tranquil atmosphere. Tucked away from the main tourist areas, Bakhaw Beach offers peace and solitude amidst breathtaking natural scenery.

Timubo Cave: Venture into the depths of Timubo Cave, a natural limestone cavern filled with crystal-clear waters. Visitors can swim in the cave's cool waters, explore its mysterious chambers, and marvel at stalactites and stalagmites formations.

Paraiso Cave: Explore the enchanting beauty of Paraiso Cave, a hidden underground paradise adorned with stalactites, stalagmites, and natural rock formations. Visitors can swim in the cave's emerald-green waters and admire its ethereal beauty.

Lake Danao Park: Unwind amidst nature at Lake Danao Park, a scenic recreational area surrounding Lake Danao. Visitors can rent cottages, go camping, and enjoy picnics amidst the park's lush surroundings, making it an ideal destination for family outings and nature lovers.

Bukilat Cave: Embark on an adventure to Bukilat Cave, a fascinating underground cavern with a natural pool and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can explore the cave's chambers, swim in its cool waters, and marvel at its unique geological formations.

Tulang Diot Island: Discover the pristine beauty of Tulang Diot Island, a small uninhabited islet off the coast of Camotes Islands. With its secluded beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life, Tulang Diot Island is perfect for snorkeling, diving, and beach picnics.

The top 10 tourist spots in Camotes Island offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation, providing visitors with unforgettable experiences amidst paradise. Whether lounging on pristine beaches, exploring hidden caves, or immersing in botanical gardens, travelers are sure to be enchanted by the timeless allure of Camotes Islands.

Top 15 Tourist Spots in Soccsksargen (Region 12)

Mt. matutum in soccsksargen (region 12).

The Happy Trip

Camotes island travel guide + resorts, tourist spots, tour packages.

Camotes Island Travel Guide + Resorts, Tourist Spots, Tour Packages

CAMOTES ISLAND  TRAVEL GUIDE |TOURIST ATTRACTIONS, TOUR PACKAGES, RESORTS

Finally, I am bringing you my Camotes Islands Travel Guide. I recently visited the place along with my friends: a fellow travel blogger, Claire Algarme of First Time Travels; Maricar Dabao a tour guide/ tour operator of Viaje Negrense; Mr. E, an event organizer based in Bacolod City.

We stayed at Camotes Islands for three days and 2 nights. I will be posting a separate article on my DIY Itinerary for the benefit of others who would want to visit the place.

I included some specific information about hotels and tour operators. This blog is not in any way connected with these entities. Please direct your queries directly to them.

ABOUT CAMOTES ISLANDS

Known as the Lost Horizon of the South, Camotes Island is located east of the Cebu Island, Southwest of Leyte and North of Bohol Island. Camotes Islands is composed of three major islands namely, Poro, Pacijan and Ponson Island.

CAMOTES ISLAND TOURIST SPOTS | THINGS TO DO | FEES AND BUDGET

Must Read: Top Camotes Islands Tourist Attractions 

SANTIAGO BAY Has a relatively long stretch of white beach. It is very popular among tourists and locals because the beach has no entrance fee. Entrance: Free

CAMOTES ISLANDS’ CAVES Don’t be scared nor discouraged with the word cave. Caves in Camotes Islands are basically easy to visit. These caves usually have concrete stairs and well lit. I visited the following caves on my recent visit: Paraiso, Timobo, and Bukilat. I made short descriptions of these caves on my List of Tourist Attractions in Camotes Island. Entrance Fees: Paraiso Cave – PHP 25 | plus 10 if you will swim inside the cave Timobo Cave – PHP 15 Bukilat Cave – PHP 20

MANGODLONG BEACH RESORT Mangodlong Beach Resort is quite small but interesting at the same time. As of this writing, some developments are still ongoing at the place. Resort Entrance – PHP 40

LAKE DANAO Lake Danao covers around 650 hectares making it the largest lake in Central Visayas. Several water activities can be enjoyed when visiting these places such as Kayaking, boating and much more. Entrance fee- PHP 15

BUHO ROCK RESORT The Buho Rock Resort is another interesting place to visit when in Camotes Island. You need to take several concrete stairs to reach the water wherein you can do cliff diving. Entrance Fee -PHP 20

BUSAY FALLS If you want another experience apart from caving and water activities, you can also try the Busay Falls in the island.

LIST OF BUDGET CAMOTES ISLAND RESORTS  

Camotes Island Resorts are basically affordable. However, it would be best to book ahead of your hotel and resort prior to your trip.

Listed below are the list of budget resorts and hotels wherein you can click and make your bookings. Simply click, the link and it will bring you to the booking site. Please take note that we have no control over these hotels. Just make your queries directly to these places.

BOOK YOUR CAMOTES ISLAND RESORTS ROOM HERE

Mangodlong Paradise Resort Mangodlong, Heminsula, San Francisco  

Mangodlong Rock Resort San Francisco,  Cebu, Philippines

Santiago Bay Garden and Resort Santiago, San Francisco, Cebu, Philippines, 6050  

Camotes Flying Fish Resort Brgy. Cagcagan, Poro

BOOK YOUR CAMOTES ISLAND RESORTS ROOM HERE  

Coco Grove Nature Resort and Spa Mangodlong, San Francisco, Cebu, Philippines, 6050  

Swisslagoon Restaurant and HotelHouse – Recently Renovated Santiago, San Francisco, Cebu, Philippines, 6050  

My Little Island Hotel Esperanza, Poro,  Cebu, Philippines  

Aladin White Beach Resort – Recently Renovated Esperanza, San Francisco,  Cebu, Philippines  

Cebuano is the dialect spoken on the island. However, almost all can speak Filipino and can understand English.

There is an ATM machine at the center of Poro as well as Palawan for you to receive and send money to other places.

TOUR PACKAGES | GETTING AROUND THE ISLAND | ITINERARY

The islands can be explored easily using local transportation such as Habal habal, Tricycle or Jeepney. The moment you arrive at Consuelo Port, you will see immediately several vehicles on standby waiting for any guests that will hire them.

The Island is basically small so its easy to make your own itinerary. if you will be renting a tricycle or van, they can already help you on how to make your plan the moment you are there.

The drivers offer packages at very affordable rates.

Habal Habal – can be rented as a self-drive or with a driver. Rent for the scooter (habal-habal) is PHP 500/day exclusive of gas. A scooter can carry 2 guests.

If you are a group of 3 to 5, you can opt to rent a tricycle. Rates vary according to the places you wanted to visit. The driver can also recommend places to visit.

For bigger groups, you can rent a jeepney with the following tour packages:

• PHP 1,500.00 -( Places to visit: Santiago Beach, resortMangoResort, Amazing Cave and Paraiso Cave)
• PHP 2,000.00- ( Places to visit: Santiago Beach, resortMangoResort, Amazing Cave, Paraiso Cave, Lake Danao, Timubo Cave, Tulang Diot Island)
• PHP 3,000 -Places to visit: Santiago Beach, resortMangoResort, Amazing Cave, Paraiso Cave, Lake Danao, Timubo Cave, Tulang Diot Island, Buho Rock, Busay Falls and Bukelat Cave)

Some drivers we meet in the Island:

Junry Bancale – 094-4616-0449 (Habal-Habal Driver) Frecz – 0912-8945-371 (Tricycle Driver) Peter Arquillano Jr – 0915-1473-964 (Jeepney Driver)

HOW TO GET TO CAMOTES ISLANDS

For people outside the Philippines, the nearest Port in the Island is the Mactan International Airport in Cebu City. From the airport, you can take a taxi going to the North Terminal, Cebu City.

There are several ports around the Camotes Islands:

Poro is the main port, where the ferry from Cebu City arrives. Consuelo, for the service to/from Danao Pilar, for Ormoc and Leyte

Your route: Cebu to Port of Danao, then Danao Port to Camotes Island

CEBU TO PORT DANAO

You can take a taxi from Cebu City to Danao Port, however, it may cost you much.

Ceres bus and other buses are available at the Cebu North Bus Terminal. From the terminal take the bus that that will pass by or that goes to Danao port.

DANAO TO CAMOTES ISLAND

At Danao Port are several boats going either to Consuelo, San Francisco, Poro or Kawit. There are boat transport services namely; Shuttle Super Ferry, Jomalia Shipping Lines and some pump boats (Ave Maria, Santo Nino de Cebu) Boat fares range from 150 pesos to 300 pesos (one-way ticket price)

JOMALIA SHIPPING LINES (DANAO, CEBU going to CONSUELO, CAMOTES)

• 05:30 AM   – 07:30 AM
•  08:30 AM  – 10:30 AM
• 12:00 PM   – 02:00 PM  (EXPRESS)
• 02:30 PM   – 04:30 PM
• 05:30 PM   – 07:30 PM
• 09:00 PM   – 11:00 PM  (EXPRESS FRI/SAT/SUN)

JOMALIA SHIPPING LINES CONSUELO, CAMOTES going to DANAO, CEBU

• 04:30 AM  – 05:30 AM  (EXPRESS SAT/SUN/MON)
• 08:30 AM   – 10:30 AM
• 01:30 PM   – 03:30 PM
• 03:00 PM   – 04:30 PM  (EXPRESS)

Telephone Numbers: +63 (32) 318-1549 Fare: Php180(non-aircon) -200(aircon)

OCEAN JET (FAST CRAFT)

PIER 1, CEBU CITY going to PORO, CAMOTES

• 06:00 AM   – 07:30 AM
• 03:00 PM   – 04:30 PM

PORO, CAMOTES going to PIER 1, CEBU CITY

• 08:00 AM  – 09:30 AM
• 05:00 PM  – 06:30 PM

Telephone Numbers: +63 (32) 255-7560

Fare: Php500 (as of May 2017 they have a promo ticket of PHP 380)

SUPER SHUTTLE FERRY The Super Shuttle Ferry goes once a day from Danao to Consuelo and once to Poro. There is also one boat a day going back from Consuelo to Danao and one from Poro to Danao.

• Danao to Consuelo – 6:30 am
• Danao to Poro – 1:00 pm
• Consuelo to Danao – 10:00 am
• Poro to Danao – 5:00 pm

Rates are almost the same for both shipping lines.

Upon arrival on Camotes Island, plenty of motorcycle drivers (habal-habal drivers) will be waiting for you. Charges for motorcycle transportation are at a standard fixed rate to every destination. Hence, it may be difficult to bargain.

Lastly, transportation costs in getting around the island might cost more than standard rates compared to going around the city.

Shipping Lines Schedule may change without prior notice. So you can check the shipping lines office below:

JOMALIA SHIPPING CORPORATION S.O. Albano St., Subangdaku, Mandaue City Telephone Number (032) 346 0421 to 23 Danao City Outlet: Danao Port Area, Cebu Contact numbers 0926 1346930 (Globe) and 09284066617 (Smart)

Consuelo Office (Camotes) Jomalia Pvt., Port, Consuelo, San Francisco, Camotes Contact Numbers (032) 318 1549/ 0939 6021738 (Smart)

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28 Comments

Hi, we offer tour service and travel guide in Camotes Islands. We also have accommodation in Camotes Beach House, facebook page: fb.com/CamotesBeachHouse . We can help you have amazing and fun experience.

hi,how much is your camotes tour package with 1nyt 2days with 20pax.oct.27.pls send me in my mssgr cristita bacsal

Hello guys,

Greetings and permission to post admin!

My Name is Brian and a certified tourguide. I own a travel agency in Camotes and I am a tour operator myself. I see that there are a lot of you who would like to inquire about Camotes. If yo want a prompt answer to your inquiries, we are very happy to help. Unfortunately it is not everyday that we can check for new comments here so para mas madali click on this link https://www.facebook.com/Camotes-Travel-tours-and-rental-861771540577992/ so you will be redirected to our Facebook Page. Just make sure you are logged in to your Facebook account. If not, then kindly send us a message or call me directly at these number 09484151337, 09951022072. It will be our great pleasure to assist you for all your tour needs here as we just don’t help you with your transportation, but we can help you in booking for your resort, or if you like a cheap accomodation, we have home stays available that can accomodate up to 20 pax for a very very CHEAP price. so what are you waiting for? Hurry! send us a message on messenger or call now.

JB Travel and tours

Hi I would love to visit to your place, could you give some ideas for the particular expenses? Thank you.

This post really inspired me to visit Camotes islands even for once. I have never considered on going to Camotes since I am not that familiar with it and I know close to nothing about the said island. But after reading your post, I will add this to my bucket list. Thanks for the inspiration!

Hi just want to ask how much is your package tour w/ room accommodation good for 3pax. 2nyts 3 days. plan to be at camotes on friday July 13.

Looking for cheap tours and transfers in Camotes Island?Feel free to contact me.09215107232 or 09554136178.This Wilbes Cabatana your Trusted Driver/Tour Guide…Godbless

I am Wilma Padilla CERNA of CAMOTES ISLANDS NINJA TOURS … We offer island tour here @ CAMOTES Islands. Pls visit our FB page ,,, or u may reach me wd my # 09335672623 & 09171464249.

My Name is Brian and a certified tourguide. I own a travel agency in Camotes and I am a tour operator myself. If you want value for your money, please contact me. My numbers are 09484151337, 09951022072. I hope to serve you here in Camotes.

Hi, is it possible for you to share you itinerary? Thank you in advance

hello We are 8 adults, 2 senior citizens, 4 kids and 1 5 month old baby. we plan to visit camotes island… any recommendations for places to visit where kids can enjoy with affordable price?

Hi may I ask how much is your budget tour package good for 2 pls send details at my email [email protected] hoping for your reply Tnx..

Hello blogger, would you know the route choose pier 1 to poro and poro to San Francisco?

I read something about a Jomalia fast craft ferry from Mactan to Camotes.

You know about it? What times it leaves?

Here is the latest information abozt the Jomalia ferries: https://superferry2go.com/jomalia-shipping-2018-schedule-and-fare-rates/

Good day! I would like to ask if you guys know ang hotel or resort or pensionne house in camotes that is not too expensive? Good for 2 persons only. Thank you. You may email it at [email protected]

just click the article, there resorts and hotels listed there

THIS POST REALLY INSPIRED ME A LOT TO VISIT CAMOTES GOAL NEXT YEAR. I AM INLOVE WITH THEIR CAVES. I HAVE TO GO THERE.

Nice work on the page . Next time you come here you will stay with me at my house in poro . Am very imprises with your camotes island page well done x

Oh thats so sweet Jodie, thank you so much 🙂

Hi sir, i am brian. I own the facebook page travel Camotes the lost horizon of the south. I am a local tourguide, driver/operator in the island. You may also want to reconsider my services if you have guests coming in/visiting Camotes. 🙂 i am a tourism accredited guide with a lot of kwoledge about the tourism here on the island. 🙂 you may contact me at my numbers 09484151337, or my globe 09951022072. I have lower rates which gives guests more places at a lower cost compared to what you have quoted above and this is in line with the tourism department’s rate here in our island. Please feel free to contact me 🙂

Thank you Elton Brian Cerna. Goodluck to your business. Happy to help

Thank you boss 🙂 we also have scooters for rent at an affordable rate! for guests vomjng in please feel free to contact me @ 09484151337 and 09951022072. Thanks and God bless.

Hi may I ask how much is your budget tour package good for 2 pls send details at my email [email protected] hoping for your reply Tnx..

please give me more details. for 2 people, december 15-17 2017 only. im from leyte. email me at [email protected] ….thankyou

correction on my email. [email protected]

Hi! I’m planing a trip there in your island on June.. can you please send me your rates good for 2 person. Here is my email : [email protected] .. thank you.. more power. 🙂

This is a blog and we don’t have a business in Camotes island. How this guide will help you

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14 Best Camotes Island Tourist Spots – An Enchanting Island of Cebu

Camotes Island tourist spots are hidden gems in Cebu , Philippines that offers a delightful blend of natural wonders, pristine beaches, and enchanting caves. Nestled in the heart of the Visayan Sea, this idyllic island is a haven for travelers seeking a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Let’s embark on a virtual journey to discover some of the most captivating tourist spots that Camotes Island has to offer.

Table of Contents

1. Bakhaw Beach

Bakhaw Beach is a picturesque strip of coastline that will instantly captivate your heart with its powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters. The swaying palm trees provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation and sunbathing. You can also indulge in various water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and beach volleyball.

2. Tulang Diot Island

Located just a short boat ride away from Camotes Island, Tulang Diot Island is a tiny paradise with an irresistible charm. Embrace the feeling of being cast away on a secluded island as you wander along its unspoiled shores and explore the coral reefs teeming with marine life. It’s an ideal spot for a serene day trip or a quiet picnic surrounded by nature’s beauty.

3. Santiago White Beach

Santiago White Beach is a postcard-perfect destination that exemplifies the island’s serene allure. The azure waters and fine white sand make it an inviting spot for swimming and building sandcastles. The beach is also equipped with cottages and amenities, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing day with family and friends.

4. Bukilat Cave

Bukilat Cave is located in Barangay Sonog, San Francisco, on the island of Camotes in the province of Cebu, Philippines. Getting to the cave is relatively easy, with various transportation options available, including habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) rides or renting a tricycle from the main town. Once you arrive at the entrance, a short trek through lush vegetation will lead you to the cave’s mouth, where the real adventure begins.

5. Holy Crystal Cave

Beyond the sun-kissed beaches and lush landscapes of Camotes Island lies a hidden sanctuary steeped in mystique—Holy Crystal Cave. Revered for its ethereal beauty and spiritual significance, this underground marvel offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of the earth, where time seems to stand still.

6. Buho Rock Resort

For thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies, Buho Rock Resort is an absolute must-visit. Dare to take the plunge from a cliff, dive into the clear waters, and experience an exhilarating rush like no other. If cliff diving isn’t your cup of tea, the panoramic views from the top are worth the climb alone.

7. Paraiso Cave

Paraiso Cave is situated in the municipality of Tudela, Camotes Island, Cebu, Philippines. Accessing the cave is relatively convenient, with various transportation options available from the main towns on the island. Upon arrival at the cave entrance, a short hike through lush vegetation will lead you to the cave’s opening, unveiling the awe-inspiring subterranean world that awaits.

8. Lake Danao

Immerse yourself in the tranquility of Lake Danao, a serene freshwater lake situated at the heart of Camotes Island. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, the lake offers a serene escape for those seeking peace and natural beauty. Rent a paddleboat or kayak to explore the calm waters and bask in the solitude.

9. Timubo Cave

Timubo Cave beckons travelers with its mysterious allure and hidden wonders. An underground sanctuary that boasts unique geological formations and crystal-clear pools, Timubo Cave offers an extraordinary adventure for those seeking to uncover the secrets of the earth’s depths.

10. Busay Falls

Nature enthusiasts will find solace in the natural beauty of Busay Falls. The cascading waters, surrounded by verdant foliage, create a soothing atmosphere. It’s an excellent spot for a refreshing dip and a picnic amidst the serene ambiance of the island.

11. Camotes Flying Fish Resort

If you seek an exquisite beachfront retreat, Camotes Flying Fish Resort is the place to be. With its luxurious amenities, comfortable accommodations, and stunning views, this resort ensures a relaxing and indulgent stay for travelers of all kinds.

12. Agora Market & San Francisco Baywalk

Experience the local flavor of Camotes Island by visiting Agora Market, where you can find an array of fresh produce, local crafts, and authentic delicacies. After exploring the market, take a leisurely stroll along the San Francisco Baywalk, which offers captivating sunset views and a chance to mingle with the friendly locals.

13. Mangodlong Paradise Beach Resort

As its name suggests, Mangodlong Paradise Beach Resort promises a slice of paradise for travelers seeking luxury and seclusion. This upscale resort offers top-notch facilities, including private villas, a pristine beachfront, and a range of activities to ensure an unforgettable experience.

14. Amazing Island Cave

Amazing Island Cave is easily accessible from the main towns of the island. Travelers can hire a tricycle or habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) to reach the cave’s entrance, where an exciting adventure awaits. As the name suggests, this underground wonder is nothing short of astonishing, offering visitors a glimpse into the captivating world that lies beneath the earth’s crust.

In conclusion, Camotes Island tourist spots caters to the wanderlust of every traveler. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a rendezvous with nature, this island paradise is ready to welcome you with open arms. Embrace the warmth of its people, soak in the natural wonders, and create memories that will last a lifetime in this tropical haven.

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Discover The Best Tourist Spots in Camotes Island of Cebu

Our guide is a compilation of remarkable tourist destinations in Camotes Island, Cebu , Philippines . If you’re looking for a peaceful escape in an idyllic setting, Camotes Island is the perfect getaway destination. This stunning island is home to numerous natural wonders, including beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, towering cliffs, and lush forests. In this article, we will take you on a virtual tour of the top tourist attractions on Camotes Island, featuring hidden caves, cultural landmarks, and iconic rock formations.

Whether you’re an adventure-seeker, beach lover, or history buff, Camotes Island offers a wide range of activities for everyone. Let us explore this breathtaking destination together and help you create the perfect itinerary for your dream vacation.

ABOUT CAMOTES ISLAND

Camotes Islands is a group of islands in the Philippines’ Camotes Sea.  The group of islands is situated east of Cebu Island, southwest of Leyte Island, and north of Bohol Island. It is part of Cebu and is 63 km from Cebu City.

THE BEST TOURIST SPOTS IN CAMOTES ISLAND

• AGORA Market & San Francisco Bay Walk
• Bakhaw Beach
• Buho Rock Resort
• Busay Falls
• Camotes Island Caves
• Century Old Tree
• Santiago White Beach
• Tulang Diot Island

THE BEST BEACHES IN CAMOTES ISLAND

• Esperanza Beach
• Mactang Beach
• Mangodlong Beach
• Santiago Bay Beach
• Tulang Diot Beach

THE THREE ISLANDS OF CAMOTES

The three main islands are Poro, Pacijian, and Ponson. The main islands of Pacijan and Poro are connected by a bridge that spans a deep mangrove forest. There is also a small island of Tulang.

THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN CAMOTES ISLAND

• Beach strolling in Mangodlong, Santiago Bay, Bakhaw, and other white-sand beaches on the islands of Pacijan, Tulang, Poro, and Ponson
• Visit Buho Rock.
• Explore Lake Danao
• Island Hopping
• Visit St. Joseph Parish and Sto. Nino Church of Poro.
• Play beach volleyball or frisbee
• Explore the Busay Waterfalls.
• Snorkeling and Scuba diving
• Try spelunking at Timubo Cave, Bukilat Cave in Tudela, Guadalupe Cave, and Holy Crystal Cave

is there an Airport in Camotes Island?

There is no airport on Camotes island. The nearest airport to Camotes Islands is Mactan–Cebu (CEB) Airport which is 57.6 km away. 

HOW TO GET TO CAMOTES ISLAND

Camotes Island has three major ports where tourists from all over the Visayas can enter. Cebu is the starting point for the most popular route. You have the option of going to Danao City or taking the ferry from Cebu to Camotes Island.

• FROM CEBU PORT PIER 1 This ferry station offers two daily trips to this island. The first is at 6 AM, and the second is at 3 PM. The return trips leave at 8 AM and 5 PM.
• FROM CEBU PORT PIER 2 Board an Aznar ferry for Poro Island. There is just one scheduled trip for this service, which is the only one on the island that provides transportation. You can choose to travel to Poro on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 9 PM. Your entire journey will take four hours to reach your destination. The return trip leaves at 1 AM on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. 
• FROM DANAO PORT Get on a boat and head for the Camotes Islands. The fact that there are many scheduled trips available makes this the most popular way to travel the islands. It takes about three hours to travel by ferry. Danao Port is about a two-hour bus ride from Cebu City. Either bring your own car and park it there for 300 pesos per day, or take it on the boat for 1,200 pesos one way to go to the harbor.

Can I bring my car to Camotes Island?

If you intend to drive to Camotes Island, head to Danao City Port. File the paperwork for your automobile or motorcycle so you can load it onto a Jomalia Shipping Line RORO vessel. Rolling cargo must be at the port at least one hour before the scheduled departure.

BEST TIME TO VISIT CAMOTES ISLAND

The Camotes Islands have the most pleasant weather in January, February, March, April, May, November, and December. Generally, the entire year is warm. June, July, August, September, October, and December are the rainy months. All year long, the water is warm enough for swimming.

All in all, Camotes Island is a truly remarkable destination that offers a wealth of natural beauty and cultural significance. With its stunning beaches, towering rock formations, hidden caves, and cultural landmarks, this idyllic paradise is a must-visit for anyone seeking an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history buff, or a beach lover, Camotes Island has something for everyone. We hope that our guide has given you some inspiration for your next journey, and that you will consider exploring this breathtaking destination for yourself.

Cebu is the “hidden paradise” of the Philippines . The city of Cebu and its surrounding areas offer a wide range of vacation options, from water-based activities like diving and snorkeling to hiking, world-class shopping, and sightseeing at historic and cultural attractions. With its amazing natural beauty, easy accessibility, and high customer satisfaction, Cebu is the best place to visit in the Philippines . Find out more in this quick guide to Cebu .

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TOP 11 CAMOTES ISLAND TOURIST SPOTS : BEST THINGS TO DO

• December 21, 2022

Camotes Island is located on the Southernmost tip of Cebu, Philippines. It is easily accessible by ferry service from the mainland. Many tourists visit the Island, and it remains a top attraction not only on the island but in Cebu. Camotes Island tourist spot is a place to be if you’re looking for incredible beach and nature experiences. However, there’s more to the island than the sun and the sand! Many people don’t know that the island is also home to some truly spectacular attractions – you just have to know where to look for them!

If you’re looking for beach time but don’t want to deal with the crowds in Boracay or Cebu City, then Camotes Island is a great option. Its stretch of white sand beaches lined with palm trees and coral reefs just offshore are perfect for snorkeling or relaxing with a book under an umbrella. If you’re lucky enough to get there during low tide, you can even explore the seabed without getting wet!

BEST TIME TO VISIT CAMOTES ISLAND TOURIST SPOT IN THE ISLAND OF CEBU

Camotes Islands is a popular weekend getaway for people on the main island of Cebu . If you want a much quieter island, you should avoid weekends and public holidays. You should also go between November and April, which is the dry season.

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HOW TO GET FROM CEBU TO CAMOTES ISLAND

The fastest way to get to Camotes island from Mactan, Cebu, is on a Jomalia fast craft, which takes an hour and ten minutes. The next fastest way is on an Oceanjet fast craft, which takes an hour and thirty minutes.

From Mactan to Camotes, the Jomalia fast craft docks at Consuelo Port, where the popular beach resorts are. The Oceanjet docks at Poro Port, about 30-45 minutes away.

You can also drive or take a bus north to Danao Port, which is 1.5–2 hours north of Cebu City. You can take the Jomalia ferry boat to the island, which takes another 2 hours.

At the Danao pier, you can park your own car overnight for a fee of about PhP 300 per night. If you want to take your car to Camotes Island, you can make plans with the ticket booth at the port. It costs about PhP 1,200 per way.

Click here to see the ferry schedule for Camotes Island.

CAMOTES ISLAND TOURIST SPOT YOU SHOULD VISIT:

1. Santiago Bay

Image source:https://pin.it/68NAlIp

Santiago Bay is one of the top tourist attractions in Camotes Island . With its unique blue waters, white sand, and crystal clear water, it will certainly be an unforgettable experience you will never forget. The coast of Camotes Island is lined with beautiful beaches, with Santiago White Beach, also called Santiago Bay. This beautiful cove is hundreds of meters long, and when the tide is high, it is the perfect place to walk in shallow, clear water.

If you like to stay active at the beach, you can rent a kayak or join a game of beach volleyball. And if you stay until sunset, you can watch the sky turn golden while you eat fresh seafood on the grill and, if you want, sing karaoke.

You should stay at Santiago Bay Garden & Resort for a night or two to get the most out of your trip to Santiago White Beach. It’s the best place to stay on Camotes Island tourist spot and has a great view of Santiago White Beach.

2. Bukilat Cave

Bukilat Cave is one the most popular Camotes Island tourist spot. Tourists can find a variety of sinkholes, pools and limestone formations inside this cave. The Belfry pool is the most popular feature inside Bukilat Cave because of its phenomenal formation.

Bukilat is by far the biggest of all the caves in Camotes, and it’s the one you should take advantage of. It’s one of the most popular places in Camotes Island, and people come from all over to see this underground site. Going down a short set of rocky steps, you can get to Bukilat Cave, full of stalagmites, stalactites, and rock formations.

A shallow tidal pool is at the center of Bukilat Cave, so the best time to visit is when the tide is high enough to walk in. At the back of the cave, there is an open skylight where you can see trees and low-hanging vines. 

3. Lake Danao

Image source:https://pin.it/5l1P8Ve

Lake Danao is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Philippines and one of the most attractive tourist attractions in Camotes Island. 

Lake Danao is north of Pacijan Island, one of the smaller islands in the Camotes Islands in the province of Cebu.

By boat, ferry, or other watercraft, it takes about two hours to get to Camotes. If you are coming from Cebu City, you should take a ferry from the port of Danao on the mainland of Cebu.

The lake looks like a guitar, and it’s a park where you can get to the lake. It is a popular in Camotes Island tourist spot.

4. Paraiso Cave

Image source:https://www.facebook.com/Paraiso.Cave?__tn__=-UC*F

Located in the northern tip of Camotes Island, Paraiso Cave is a massive ocean cave that flows from one end to the other. It is a relatively easy hike down to the cave, but it’s fairly strenuous. It is one of the top tourist attractions in Camotes Island. 

Paraiso Cave, which has a turquoise swimming hole deep underground, is another amazing cave in Camotes. The most developed cave on Camotes Island tourist spot is Paraiso Cave, a restaurant and resort built around it. There are places to sit carved into the rocks underground, so if you don’t mind being squished, you can spend time in the cave.

The water in Paraiso Cave is so clear that if you didn’t know better, you might think it’s only a foot deep. If you go when the tide is high, you’ll be up to your chest in some of the clearest water you’ve probably ever seen.

5. Amazing Island Cave

Image source:https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=10217701100158563&set=pcb.10217701095878456

The Amazing Island Cave of Camotes is one of the top tourist attraction in Camotes Island. It’s a cave with a large opening that welcomes hundreds of tourists every year. Amazing Island Cave is by far our favorite cave on Camotes Island tourist spot. The name says it all, and it lives up to its promise. Unlike the others, there is much space to swim, and it’s deep enough that we recommend you bring a mask and snorkel.

At the entrance of Amazing Island Cave, a narrow channel is already deep enough for a good swim. Just watch your head because it’s a tight space, and we bumped ours a few times on the rocks. If you swim through the channel, it opens up into a large, deep pool. Here is where you’ll want to have your mask and snorkel! And don’t worry if you’re not the best swimmer; you can use the life jackets there.

6. Timubo Cave

Image source:https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=143738958405586&set=pcb.143739021738913

Timubo Cave is by far the least developed cave on Camotes Island. It’s just a hole in the ground in the middle of nowhere, but that makes us love it even more. A Catholic grotto was the only other thing made by people besides the cement steps and lights, but there was nothing to explain what it was for. 

Underground, a dark and sometimes dangerous path leads to an opening with clear water. We needed a mask and snorkel to see the cave floor as we swam through the water.

7. Tulang Diot Island

Image source: https://pin.it/3fn0yPa

Tulang Diot Island is one of the top tourist attractions in Camotes Island. It features a pristine white sand beach and a clean and secure resort. Its natural wonders have become a popular destination among locals and foreign tourists.

The white sand beach and clear blue water of Tulang Diot Island make it one of the best places to visit on Camotes Island tourist spot. Tulang Diot Island is across a narrow channel of water from Pacijan Island. There aren’t many things to do on the island, but that’s part of its charm. A small group of people lives on Tulang Diot Island, but other than that, there isn’t much else there. Once you get there, you can find a spot on the beach, enjoy snorkeling, and just hang out. There isn’t much food on the island, so if you plan to spend the day there, bring your lunch or buy snacks at a sari-sari store.

8. Buho Rock Resort

Image source:https://pin.it/1y1fJJb

The Buho Rock Resort is more than just a place to stay it is also considered one of the most tourist attractions in Camotes Island. It is also one of the most popular places for thrill-seekers on Camotes Island. The nearby rock connected by a bridge brings people to the resort, not the resort itself.

The Buho Rock Resort has been made into a place to go cliff diving, with multiple platforms of different heights for thrill-seekers. You can dive into the bright blue water or sit at a picnic table and watch what’s happening. If you want to jump, the best time to go to Buho Rock Resort is when the tide is high.

If you want to check out the rock pools below but don’t want to throw your boat off a cliff, you can take a staircase down to the bottom and look at the rock pools there.

9. Busay Falls

Image source:https://camotesresortsandhotels.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Mangodlong-Paradise-2-1536×1152-2.jpg

Poro Island in Camotes is home to Busay Falls, a small but beautiful waterfall. Busay Falls is one of only two waterfalls in Camotes Island tourist spot. The other is Panganuron Falls. 

Even though Busay Falls isn’t very big, the water is a beautiful Gatorade blue, like many other waterfalls in Cebu. This makes it a great place to take a refreshing swim and is considered one of the top tourist attractions in Camotes Island. 

10. San Francisco Bay Walk

Image source:http://www.phtourguide.com/baywalk-leisure-area-of-camotes/

The San Francisco Bay Walk is the best walkway in the Philippines. It is one of the top tourist attraction in Camotes Island. San Francisco Baywalk, which recently changed its name to “Baywalk,” is just a few meters from the Port of San Francisco, the main town of Camotes island tourist spot. From the main road near the Causeway, it goes for about 300 yards until it ends at the foot of a mountain. The Baywalk is a great place for families and friends to hang out in the afternoon and evening because it has a beautiful design made of bermuda grass and a snake-like path.

On the Baywalk trail, some round metal bars can be used to work out, such as the Parallel Bars, Monkey Bars, etc. People are more likely to enjoy the cool breeze of fresh air and the great atmosphere at night because there are a dozen benches and light posts.

11. Mangodlong Rock

Image source:https://pin.it/2GeDrnD

A blend of personal and relaxed moments. This rock is located inside the Mangodlong Beach Resort. It is relatively little, yet stunning nevertheless and one of the top Camotes Island tourist spot.

With a sandbar connecting it to the beach, the rock formations that seem to float on the pure green water are a sight to behold along the beach. The surface of these rocks, where the sea wind is at its strongest, is adorned with open-air houses of tropical design.

THESE ARE THE TOP CAMOTES ISLAND TOURIST SPOT

We hope that this list of the top 11 Camotes Island tourist spot has inspired you to add this beautiful destination to your travel bucket list. Don’t forget to check out our blog for more must-visit tourist attractions in the Philippines . From breathtaking beaches and stunning natural landscapes to rich cultural experiences, the Philippines has so much to offer. So pack your bags and start planning your trip to Camotes Island today! You won’t be disappointed.

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26 Tourist Attractions in Camotes Island

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Camotes Island is a hidden gem located in the central Visayas region of the Philippines. With its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and lush greenery, it’s no surprise this island is becoming a popular tourist destination.

In this article, we’ll explore 26 of the best tourist destinations in Camotes Island, from beautiful beaches and waterfalls to historical landmarks and cultural attractions. 

Whether you’re a beach bum, adventure seeker, or history buff, Camotes Island has something to offer everyone. So, grab your sunscreen, and let’s get started on this exciting journey to discover and dare to travel beyond the wonders of Camotes Island!

For more details and to complete your trip, here’s our Camotes Island travel guide for you to make the most of your trip.

What are you waiting for? Let’s take a look at 26 of the best tourist attractions on Camotes Island!

Related reading:  Philippines Travel Requirements: What Documents Do I Need To Travel To The Philippines

Table of Contents

Poro Island

This island is known for its beautiful beaches with sand as white as snow, waters so clear that you can see through them, and abundant greenery. It also has several natural caves and rock formations that are worth exploring. Poro Island is the most developed of the four islands, with a number of resorts, restaurants, and other tourist facilities.

1. Explore Bukilat Cave’s Stunning Formations and Refreshing Waters

Bukilat Cave is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Camotes Island. The cave is quite expansive, and the rock formations inside are simply stunning. 

It’s a bit dark inside, so bring a flashlight or rent one from the nearby vendors. The water inside the cave is crystal clear and refreshing, perfect for a quick swim. 

A unique and unforgettable experience you won’t miss.

Location: Bukilat Cave   

2. Discover the Hidden Gem of Panganuron Falls

Panganuron Falls is a hidden gem in Camotes Island that’s definitely worth the trip. The water is cool and crystal clear, and there is lush greenery all around the falls. 

There are also plenty of rocks to climb on, making it a great spot for photos. Just be prepared for a bit of a hike to get there, as the trail can be steep and rocky in some places.

Location: Panganuron Falls

3. Experience Serenity and Adventure at Busay Falls

Busay Falls is another stunning waterfall in Camotes Island that’s definitely worth a visit. The falls are surrounded by dense foliage, which gives them a secluded and peaceful feel. The water is refreshing and cool, and there’s a small pool at the base of the falls where you can swim. 

A great spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Location: Busay Falls

4. Discover Nature’s Wonders at Lawis Sanctuary Park

Lawis Sanctuary Park is a beautiful and well-maintained park in Camotes Island. The park is situated right by the sea, which provides stunning views and a cool sea breeze. Plenty of benches, shaded areas to sit and relax, and a playground for kids. 

It’s a great place to relax, take a stroll, and enjoy the island’s natural beauty. The park features a butterfly garden, a fish pond, and a small lagoon. Visitors can also enjoy kayaking or paddle boating on the lagoon. 

A lovely destination for nature lovers.

Location: Lawis Sanctuary Park

5. Discover the Ecological Wonders of Tudela Mangrove Forest

Tudela Mangrove Forest is a natural wonder in Tudela, Camotes Island. It’s an important ecological site and a popular destination for ecotourism. 

Visitors can take a boat tour through the mangrove forest and see a variety of bird species, as well as marine creatures such as crabs and shrimp. 

A great place for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

Location: Tudela Mangrove Forest

6. Experience Water Adventures at Camotes Flying Fish Resort

Camotes Flying Fish Resort is a beautiful beach resort in San Francisco, Camotes Island. It’s a popular destination for travelers who want to relax and enjoy the beach. The resort offers a range of accommodations, from standard rooms to beachfront villas. 

Visitors can enjoy various water activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, and paddleboarding. The resort also has a restaurant and bar where guests can enjoy local cuisine and cocktails.

Location: Flying Fish Resort

7. Discover Paradise at Mactang Beach

Mactang Beach is a picturesque beach located in the town of Poro, Camotes Island. It’s a popular destination for swimming and sunbathing and offers stunning ocean views. A beach is also great for snorkeling, as several coral reefs are nearby. 

A beautiful destination for those who want to relax and enjoy the island’s natural beauty.

Location: Mactang Beach

8. Experience Thrills and Beauty at Buho Rock Beach

Buho Rock Beach is another popular beach destination in Camotes Island, located in Poro. The beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning rock formations. 

Visitors can also enjoy cliff diving at Buho Rock, a thrilling activity for adrenaline junkies. 

A great destination for those who want to enjoy the beach and try some exciting activities.

Location: Buho Rock Resort

9. Discover the Mystical Charm of Mama Asun Enchanted Cave & Resort

Mama Asun Enchanted Cave & Resort is a unique and mystical attraction in Tudela, Camotes Island. The enchanted cave is said to have healing powers and is a popular destination for spiritual and religious pilgrimages. 

Visitors can explore the cave and take a dip in its cool, clear waters. The resort also offers accommodations for those who want to stay overnight. 

A must-visit destination for those interested in spiritual or mystical experiences.

Location: Mama Asun Enchante d Cave & Resort

Pacijan Island

Pacijan Island is home to some of the most pristine and secluded beaches in Camotes. The island is known for its quiet and laid-back atmosphere, with few tourists and locals living a simple and traditional way of life. Pacijan Island also has interesting geological formations like the Bukilat Cave and the Timubo Cave.

10. Enjoy Serenity and Stunning Scenery at Santiago Bay

Santiago Bay is a beautiful and tranquil beach located in the town of San Francisco, Camotes Island. It’s a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. 

The bay is also a great spot to watch the sunrise or sunset. Santiago Bay is a great destination for those who want to relax and enjoy the beauty of the island’s coastline.

Location: Santiago Bay Beach

11. Discover the Secluded Beauty of Bakhaw Beach

Bakhaw Beach is a secluded and peaceful beach located in the town of Poro, Camotes Island. If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway and some alone time, it’s an excellent destination to consider. Encircled by abundant greenery, the beach boasts pristine waters that are transparent and clear. 

Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. 

A great destination for those who want to escape it all and enjoy peace.

Location: Bakhaw Beach Bakhaw Beach

12. Discovering Marine Wonders at Masamayor Beach

Masamayor Beach is a popular destination for swimming and snorkeling. Located in Tudela, Camotes Island, the beach features clear waters and a variety of marine life. 

Visitors can rent snorkeling gear, explore the coral reefs, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun. 

A great destination for those who love the ocean and want to experience its beauty up close.

Location: Masamayor’s Beach House and Resort

13. Indulge in Luxury and Relaxation at Santiago White Beach Resort

Santiago White Beach Resort is a beautiful and luxurious beach resort in San Francisco, Camotes Island. The resort offers a range of accommodations, from standard rooms to beachfront villas. 

Tourists can participate in various water-based activities like kayaking and paddleboarding or just lounge on the beach to bask in the sun’s warmth. The resort also has a restaurant and bar where guests can enjoy local cuisine and cocktails. 

A great destination for those who want to indulge in some luxury and enjoy the beauty of the island’s coastline.

Location: Santiago White Beach

14. Experience Paradise In Mangodlong Rock Resort

Mangodlong Rock Resort is a popular beach resort located in the town of San Francisco, Camotes Island. The resort features a beautiful beach, clear waters, and a range of accommodations, from standard rooms to villas. 

Visitors can enjoy various water activities, such as swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking, or unwind on the beach while absorbing the sunshine. The resort also has a restaurant and bar where guests can enjoy local cuisine and cocktails. 

A great destination for those who want to comfortably enjoy the island’s coastline’s beauty.

Location: Mangodlong Rock Resort

15. Escape to Serenity at the Secluded Borromeo Beach

Borromeo Beach is a secluded and peaceful beach located in the town of Tudela, Camotes Island. If you’re seeking tranquility and wish to avoid crowds, it’s an ideal place to visit. Encircled by abundant greenery, the beach boasts pristine waters that are transparent and clear. 

Location: Borromeo Beach Resort

16. Unleash Your Adventurous Side in Camp Wagi

Camp Wagi is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, located in the town of Tudela, Camotes Island. The camp offers a range of activities, such as trekking, camping, and zip-lining. 

Visitors can explore the island’s natural beauty and enjoy a variety of outdoor adventures. 

A great destination for those who love the outdoors and want to experience the island’s natural wonders.

Location: Camp Wagi

17. Dive into Underwater Paradise at Esperanza Marine Sanctuary

Esperanza Marine Sanctuary is a protected area located in the town of Poro, Camotes Island. It’s a popular destination for snorkeling and diving, as it features a variety of marine life, such as colorful corals, tropical fish, and sea turtles. 

Visitors can rent snorkeling or diving gear and explore the underwater world of the sanctuary. 

Location: Esperanza

18. Immerse Yourself in Nature’s Serenity at Lake Danao

Lake Danao is a natural lake located in the center of Camotes Island. It’s a popular destination for nature lovers, as it features a variety of flora and fauna, such as orchids, birds, and butterflies. 

Visitors can take a boat ride around the lake, hike along its trails, or simply enjoy a picnic by the water. 

A great destination for those who want to experience the island’s natural beauty and tranquility.

Location: Lake Danao

19. Journey to the Hidden Oasis of Timubo Cave’s Underground Pool

Timubo Cave is a popular tourist destination on Camotes Island known for its crystal-clear underground pool. The cave has a well-maintained pathway leading down to the pool, and visitors can swim in the cool, refreshing water while enjoying the beautiful rock formations and stalactites above. 

A must-visit attraction on Camotes Island for those who love nature and adventure.

Location: Timubo Cave

20. Discovering the Subterranean Marvel at Paraiso Cave

Paraiso Cave is another beautiful cave on Camotes Island, known for its stunning limestone formations and underground river. The cave is well-lit and has a guided tour, allowing visitors to fully appreciate its natural beauty. 

The river inside the cave is perfect for swimming and kayaking, making it a great destination for families and adventurous travelers.

Location: Paraiso Cave

21. Explore Tranquility and Refreshing Waters at Heaven Cave

Heaven Cave is a smaller cave compared to other caves on Camotes Island, but it still offers an excellent experience for visitors. The cave has a small entrance, but inside; Tourists can take a revitalizing plunge into the transparent waters.

With its exceptional rock formations and peaceful ambiance, the cave offers an excellent opportunity to unwind and de-stress.

Location: Heaven Cave

22. Capture Stunning Panoramic Views at Canlusong Rock

Canlusong Rock is a beautiful rock formation on Camotes Island that offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscape. 

Visitors can climb to the top of the rock formation and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of the island. It’s an excellent place to watch the sunset and take beautiful photos.

Location: Canlusong Rock

23. Discover the Natural Marvels of Holy Crystal Cave in Camotes Island (CLOSED) 

The Holy Crystal Cave is a unique attraction in Camotes Island that is definitely worth a visit. As the name suggests, this cave is famous for its stunning crystal formations. 

The cave is located in the barangay of Esperanza and requires a bit of a hike to get to, but the experience is well worth the effort. You’ll find clear underground pools, rock formations, and interesting cave creatures inside the cave. 

The cave is well-maintained, and guides are available to show you around and provide interesting information about the cave’s history and geology.

Location: Holy Crystal Cave, Formentera Park

24. Take a Scenic Stroll and Enjoy Beautiful Views at the Baywalk Trail

The Baywalk Trail is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a scenic walk along the water. This trail runs along the island’s coast and offers stunning views of the sea and nearby islands. 

The trail is well-maintained and easy to navigate, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Along the way, you’ll pass small fishing villages, coconut groves, and local restaurants serving delicious seafood dishes. 

The Baywalk Trail is also an ideal spot to watch the sunset.

Location: Baywalk Trail

25. Experience Breathtaking Views at Mt. Calvary (TEMPORARILY CLOSED) 

Mt. Calvary is a small mountain located in the barangay of San Francisco. It’s a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape from the summit. 

The hike up the mountain is relatively easy, taking around 30-40 minutes, and is suitable for people of all ages. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the island, including the nearby beaches and neighboring islands.

Location: Mt. Calvary/Kalbaryo

Ponson Island

Ponson Island is a small and relatively unknown island perfect for those looking for a more off-the-beaten-path destination. The island has a rugged coastline, with several hidden coves and small beaches perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Ponson Island also has some interesting historical sites, including an old Spanish watchtower.

Unfortunately, there hasn’t been any tourist destination discovered yet in Ponson Island, Camotes. However, if we explore the island, we might be able to find some beautiful attractions in Ponson that are waiting to be discovered.

Tulang Island

Tulang Island is a remote and undeveloped island perfect for those looking for a true escape from the modern world. The island is mostly covered in dense jungle and has a rugged coastline, with a few small beaches that are only accessible by boat. Tulang Island is also home to several wildlife species, including monkeys, bats, and exotic birds.

26. Discover Tranquility and Serenity at Tulang Diot Island

Tulang Diot Island is a small island located off the coast of Camotes Island. It’s a popular destination for day trips and island hopping tours, offering clear blue waters, white sandy beaches, and a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. 

The island is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing, with plenty of shady spots to escape the sun. There are also small beachside restaurants that serve delicious seafood and refreshments.

Location: Tulang Island Tulang Diot Beach

These are just some tourist destinations to explore on Camotes Island. With its natural beauty and diverse attractions, Camotes Island is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Philippines.

Final Thoughts

As someone who has had the pleasure of visiting Camotes Island and exploring its various tourist destinations, I can confidently say that this little piece of paradise is truly a hidden gem in the Philippines.

From the stunning white sand beaches of Santiago Bay and Mangodlong Rock Beach to the crystal clear waters of Lake Danao and the mesmerizing rock formations of Buho Rock, there is no shortage of natural beauty to be found on this island.

But Camotes Island is not just about beaches and natural wonders. The island is also home to a rich cultural heritage, as evidenced by the centuries-old churches and ancestral houses that dot the landscape.

One of the things I appreciated most about Camotes Island was the friendly and welcoming nature of the locals. Everyone was eager to share their love for their island, whether it was sharing a meal with a family in their home or getting tips on the best places to go from a tricycle driver.

Overall, I would highly recommend Camotes Island as a tourist destination to anyone looking for a relaxing, off-the-beaten-path vacation with plenty of natural beauty and cultural richness to explore.

Planning to visit more places with your friends and loved ones? Check out and explore more destinations below:

• What’s in Olango Island Philippines – Travel Guide

What to See and Do in Samal Island Philippines – Travel Guide

• Traveling Bohol Philippines – The Ultimate Guide
• Things to Do and Explore Davao City – The Travel Guide

You might also enjoy:

Top 23 Bantayan Island Tourist Spots, Cebu, Philippines

Top Beach Resorts in Pangasinan for Your Ultimate Holiday Getaway

20 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Tagaytay and Top Things to Do

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Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

17 Top Tourist Attractions in Moscow

The capital of Russia is an incredible place to explore. Visitors to Moscow come away spellbound at all the amazing sights, impressed at the sheer size and grandeur of the city. Lying at the heart of Moscow, the Red Square and the Kremlin are just two of the must-see tourist attractions; they are the historical, political and spiritual heart of the city – and indeed Russia itself.

A fascinating city to wander around, stunning cathedrals, churches, and palaces lie side-by-side with bleak grey monuments and remains from the Soviet state. In addition to its plethora of historical and cultural tourist attractions, Moscow is home to world-class museums, theaters and art galleries.

Renowned for its performing arts, fantastic ballets and amazing circus acts, catching a show while in Moscow is a must. The wealth of brilliant restaurants, trendy bars, and lively nightlife means there is something for everyone to enjoy.

See also: Where to Stay in Moscow

17. Tsaritsyno Palace

Once the summer residence of Catherine the Great, the stunning Tsaritsyno Palace is now a museum-reserve. The architecture is magnificent and there is a lovely park surrounding it for visitors to explore.

Located in the south of Moscow, the palace was commissioned in 1775 and recent renovations mean its lavish interior looks better than ever before with its elegant halls and beautiful staircases.

The exhibits on display look at the life of the empress as well as the history of Tsaritsyno itself. The huge palace grounds are also home to some other delightful buildings with the elegant opera house and wonderful brickwork of the Small Palace being particularly impressive to gaze upon.

Starting out in 1935 as the ‘All-Union Agricultural Exhibition’, VDNKh has slowly morphed over the years into the fascinating open-air museum of today. Remarkably, over 400 buildings can now be found within its confines.

The huge park complex has numerous pavilions representing former Soviet republics on show, such as those of Armenia and Turkmenistan and the distinctive architecture of each of the buildings is always interesting to gaze upon. In addition to this there is the fascinating Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics which is dedicated to space exploration and the fun Moskvarium aquarium even offers you the chance to swim with dolphins.

With lots of eateries scattered about and numerous entertainment options such as horse-riding and zip-lining, there is something for everyone to enjoy; the Friendship of Nations fountain truly is wonderful.

15. Kremlin Armoury

One of the oldest museums in the city, the Kremlin Armoury has a wealth of treasures; highlights include the ornate Grand Siberian Railway egg, the historic Cap of Monomakh and the stunning Imperial Crown of Russia which often has a crowd of tourists around it, jostling to take a photo.

Once the royal armory, there are loads of fascinating objects on display. Perusing the many sabers, jewelry, armor and more is as interesting as it is educational and entertaining and the swords are so finely crafted that you’ll almost wish you could pick up one and wield if yourself.

Established in 1851, the museum is situated in the Moscow Kremlin.

14. GUM Department Store

Standing for ‘Main Universal Store’ in Russian, GUM is stunning. Its wonderful skylights and beautiful facades mean it doesn’t look out of place alongside its illustrious neighbors on Red Square.

With over 200 shops, boutiques and upmarket eateries inside, it is a shopaholic’s heaven and concerned partners will be glad to find more affordable options alongside luxury brands such as Dior and Prada.

The main department store in the city, GUM was opened in 1893. The stunning architecture makes it well worth a visit even if shopping isn’t your thing.

13. Moscow Metro

It’s not often that public transport looks like a work of art. So many stops on the Moscow Metro will astound visitors with their beauty and elegance.

Decked in marble and with frescoes covering the walls, the stations are amazing to gaze upon and are part of one of the longest metro systems in the world, with the first stations opened in 1935.

Using the metro is the quickest and easiest way to get around Moscow and braving the crowds of commuters is well worth it for the beauty all around you.

12. Arbat Street

An elegant yet lively street, Arbat is full of impressive architecture and was once a popular place to live for aristocrats, artists, and academics.

A historic place, it is down Arbat Street that Napoleon’s troops are said to have headed on their way to capture the Kremlin.

Nowadays, there are many cafes, restaurants, and shops, as well as various monuments and statues to former residents such as Alexander Pushkin who was reputed to be a lover of the Russian Empress due to his massive influence in court.

11. Novodevichy Convent

Drenched in history, the Novodevichy Convent is located in a striking building that was once a fortress. This captivating place is well worth visiting when in Moscow.

Founded in 1524, the convent houses four cathedrals; Smolensk Cathedral is the undoubted highlight due to its delightful 16th-century frescoes.

Wandering around the grounds is like stepping back in time. The Novodevichy Cemetery is where many famous leaders of the Soviet Union are buried, such as Yeltsin and Khrushchev.

10. Pushkin Museum

Despite its name, the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts actually has no connection at all to the famous poet other than that it was named in his honor after his death. A delight to visit, its extensive collection focuses on European art with masterpieces by Botticelli, Rembrandt, and van Gogh all featuring.

Sculptures, graphic art, paintings and more can be found in its beautiful galleries; various sections look at themes and epochs such as the Renaissance, the Dutch Golden Age, and Byzantine art.

Among the many highlights are the clownish characters which can be found in Cezanne’s Fastnacht (Mardi Gras) and the twirling ballerinas who look so elegant in Degas’ Blue Dancers. Picasso’s Young acrobat on a Ball is also well worth checking out for its interesting use of shapes and colors.

9. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This gorgeous Russian Orthodox cathedral is located on the banks of the Moskva River, just a stone’s throw away from the Kremlin.

The church as it stands today was consecrated in 2000, as the original church that stood here was destroyed on the command of Josef Stalin in 1931 due to the anti-religious campaign.

With its delightful golden dome, spires and dazzling white facades, the Christ the Savior Cathedral is stunning. The interior is just as captivating to wander around, with its beautifully tiled floors and impressive altar.

8. Lenin Mausoleum

Opened to the public in 1924, Lenin’s Mausoleum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Moscow. The red granite structure is located at the heart of the city in Red Square.

Lenin’s embalmed body lies in a glass sarcophagus; it is a somewhat eerie experience walking past the former leader of the Soviet Union but is well worth doing as you understandably can’t do it anywhere else in the world.

After visiting the mausoleum, head to the Kremlin wall right next to it for more graves of important communist figures such as Stalin and Brezhnev.

7. Tretyakov Gallery

Home to the most extensive and impressive collection of Russian fine art in the world, the State Tretyakov Gallery is definitely worth visiting when in Moscow for the wealth of amazing art pieces that it has on display.

Having started out as the private art collection of the Tretyakov brothers, there are now over 130,000 exhibits. Highlights include the iconic Theotokos of Vladimir which you will almost certainly recognise despite probably not knowing the name and Rublev’s Trinity which is considered to be one of highest achievements in Russian art.

An absolute must for art lovers, the State Tretyakov Gallery will delight visitors with all that is has to offer.

6. Kolomenskoye

Once a royal estate, Kolomenskoye is now a museum-reserve and lies a few kilometers outside of the city center. A captivating place to visit, there is a plethora of history on show and the site overlooks the Moskva River.

Consisting of four historical sites, there are extensive gardens for visitors to explore, as well as loads of interesting old buildings, the former village of Kolomenskoye itself and the impressive Palace of the Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich – once considered the Eighth Wonder of the World by contemporaries.

Among the many stunning sights, it is the brilliantly white Ascension Church that is the undoubted highlight – dating back to 1532.

5. Gorky Park

Lying alongside the Moskva River, the huge Gorky Park is a lovely place to visit. Its extensive gardens are home to numerous cultural institutions and visitors should definitely check out the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art and while the eclectic exhibits may not always feature such incredible sights as a balloon-covered rider on a zebra; they certainly always succeed in pushing back the boundaries of art.

Pop-up exhibitions and festivals can be found from time to time in the park itself and there is an open-air theatre and numerous eateries alongside a plethora of leisure activities.

Whether it’s cycling, table tennis or yoga that you are after or beach volleyball and rowing, Gorky Park certainly has it. In winter, there is a huge ice rink for visitors to enjoy.

4. Bolshoi Theatre

The Bolshoi Theatre is the main theater in the country. The amazing opera and ballet performances it has put on over the centuries go a long way in explaining Russia’s rich history of performing arts.

While the Bolshoi Ballet Company was established in 1776, the theater itself was opened in 1825. The glittering, six-tier auditorium is lavishly and decadently decorated; it is a fitting setting for the world-class performances that take place on its stage.

Spending a night watching a performance of such classics as The Nutcracker or Swan Lake at the Bolshoi Theatre is sure to be a memorable experience and the beauty all around you only adds to the sense of occasion.

3. Moscow Kremlin

This famously fortified complex is remarkably home to five palaces and four cathedrals and is the historic, political and spiritual center of the city. The Kremlin serves as the residence for the country’s president. It has been used as a fort, and this fact is made clear by its sheer size. The Kremlin’s outer walls were built in the late 1400s.

Under Ivan III, better known as Ivan the Great, the Kremlin became the center of a unified Russian state, and was extensively remodeled. Three of the Kremlin’s cathedrals date to his reign that lasted from 1462-1505. The Deposition Church and the Palace of Facets were also constructed during this time. The Ivan the Great Bell Tower was built in 1508. It is the tallest tower at the Kremlin with a height of 266 feet (81 meters).

Joseph Stalin removed many of the relics from the tsarist regimes. However, the Tsar Bell, the world’s largest bell, and the Tsar Cannon, the largest bombard by caliber in the world, are among the remaining items from that era. The Kremlin Armory is one of Moscow’s oldest museums as it was established more than 200 years ago. Its diamond collection is impressive.

The Kremlin’s gardens – Taynitsky, Grand Kremlin Public and Alexander – are beautiful. The Kremlin has also served as the religious center of the country, and there is a tremendous number of preserved churches and cathedrals here. The collections contained within the museums include more than 60,000 historical, cultural and artistic monuments. Those who enjoy the performing arts will want to consider attending a ballet or concert at the State Kremlin Palace. Completed in 1961, it is the only modern building in the Kremlin.

2. Red Square

Lying at the heart of Moscow, Red Square is the most important and impressive square in the city. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions due to its wealth of historical sights and cultural landmarks.

Drenched in history, the huge square is home to incredible sights such as the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s Mausoleum, among others. Consequently, it is not to be missed when in Moscow as it really is home to the city’s most stunning monuments.

It is here that many important moments in Russian history took place; the former marketplace has hosted everything from Tsar’s coronations and public ceremonies to rock concerts and Soviet military parades. Wandering around the massive square is a humbling experience and undoubtedly one of the highlights the city has to offer.

1. Saint Basil’s Cathedral

Located in the impressive Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral is gorgeous; its delightful spires appear as if out of a fairytale. The most recognizable building in the country, the cathedral is very much a symbol of Russia. No visit to Moscow is complete without having taken in its unique and distinctive features.

Ivan the Terrible ordered the cathedral’s construction in the mid-16th century, and legend holds that Ivan put out the architect’s eyes so that he would be unable to build another cathedral more glorious than St. Basil’s. Designed to resemble the shape of a bonfire in full flame, the architecture is not only unique to the period in which it was built but to any subsequent period. For various reasons, both Napoleon and Stalin wanted to destroy the cathedral but fortunately did not succeed.

Known for its various colors, shapes and geometric patterns, St. Basil’s Cathedral houses nine different chapels that are all connected by a winding labyrinth of corridors and stairways. On the lower floor, St. Basil’s Chapel contains a silver casket bearing the body of St. Basil the Blessed.

Throughout the cathedral are many beautiful murals, frescoes, wooden icons and other art works and artifacts. Outside the cathedral is a lovely garden with the bronze Monument to Minin and Pozharsky, who rallied an all-volunteer Russian army against Polish invaders during a period of the late 16th century known as the Times of Troubles.

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Camotes Island Itinerary + Tourist spots

Posted on November 3, 2019 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on November 5, 2022

Quiet and beautiful Camotes islands are made of three main islands: Pacijan, Poro, and Ponson. They are named after the camotes or sweet potatoes, which thrive abundantly on the islands there. Ponson is pretty remote with its inhabitants living a really basic life, it’s also hard to get there as there is no regular boat going there. The majority of the Camote Islands tourist spots are on Poro and Pacijan. Both islands are more developed but it’s still mostly villages, there’s no ATM there and frequent power outages. These two islands are rich in springs, waterfalls, and caves, Pacijan also offers some nice beaches. The islands are still really far from being a big tourist destination. Most people coming to visit are people from Cebu. The people are really nice and super welcoming. Read on to for your Camotes Island Itinerary and to learn all about Camotes Island tourist spots.

Disclaimer: this post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on any links and make a purchase, I’ll get a small commission at no cost to you.

Camotes Islands Tourist Spots

Poro island tourist spots, bukilat cave.

Bukilat is a really nice cave, not really deep underground but really large, and with a big lake you can swim in and openings to the sky, creating a mystical atmosphere. In the 70s mass used to be held there. The water is coming from the sea, so if you go during low tide (in the morning) who won’t see much water, it’s better to go in the afternoon.

The water of the cave is believed by locals to have healing effects.

Busay falls in Tudela

These falls are amazing, the color of the water is just beautiful, you must add it to your Camotes Island itinerary. Try to go in the morning during the week so you’ll have more chances to be alone. It’s really refreshing, pools had been carved out of the rocks, but it still has a ”wild” touch. You can also jump off the cliff, but be careful it’s not really deep. It’s an easy trek, about 10 minutes through banana plantations from the parking lot.

Mactan beach

The beach here is far from being amazing but its historical importance makes it worth a visit…

In Filipino colonization History, Mactan recalls an important battle that took place on April 27th, 1521, so prior to colonization. It marks the first victory of Filipino people over the Spaniards.

In March 1521, Magellan landed in Cebu, looking for a new way to get to Moluccas Islands. He “discovered” the Philippines. He befriended Cebu’s king who converted to Christianity and ordered the other chiefs to convert and help Magellan. One of the chiefs of Mactan island , close to Cebu, refused, so Magellan set toward the island with a troop of Spaniards to fight them. They were outnumbered and lost, Magellan was killed during this battle.

This is the official version but recent findings point to another site for the battle: Poro Island in Camotes, and most precisely in Mactan Beach. History students found documents stating that it took 2 hours for Magellan to get to Mactan Island, where it should have taken him only 30 minutes. Moreover a lot of Spanish artifacts have been found on Mactan Beach in Poro, unfortunately, they are now privately owned and you can only see them during special celebrations on Camotes.

Your Camotes Island itinerary wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Mactan Beach.

Poro church

Poro church is about 150 years old, the facade is made of stones but the rest is made of wood. Worth a stop if you’re passing by.

Pacijan Island tourist spots:

Santiago bay.

Santiago is a nice and quiet beach, good for swimming, you’ll just have to walk a while to get deep into the water. There are two resorts bordering it and a couple of beach restaurants with affordable prices.

Lake Danao is a really nice place to relax, you can rent for 50 pesos per head a kayak or a paddle boat or take a boat ride for 700 pesos (good for 10 people). There’s not a lot of ways to access the lake, the easiest is to go to Green Lake park activity center. From there you can walk for some time along the lake. There’s also a nice tower deck where you can get a nice view of the lake.

Timubo Cave

Timubo cave was a really nice surprise for me, I wasn’t planning on visiting it, but passing by, I thought, why not? I’m so happy I stopped, this cave definitively has a magical touch. You have to go down for about 75 meters deep underground, there are steps all the way so it’s easy. Brass yourself because, as you go down, it gets more and more humid and hot. You’ll have to go through two small pools of water, and then you get to the bigger pool. It’s super nice, you can swim there and go farther into the cave, try to bring a headlamp because the light doesn’t go all the way to the end of the cave. It’s a bit deep in some parts but you can mostly walk everywhere.

Tulang Island

Tulang Island is super nice, it’s a really small island with only a couple of people living on it, it’s mostly jungle and at the tip some white sand beaches. It is also a good spot for snorkeling. You can take a bangka for 20 pesos. Unfortunately, I couldn’t go there because a typhoon was coming but you can easily see it from Pacijan, it’s really close.

Borromeo or Bakhaw Beach

This beach is one of my favorite Camotes Island tourist spots, it’s secluded and coming as close as it gets to a picture-perfect beach. The sand is white and thin and the water is crystal clear. Only down point is that it would need some cleaning, but it’s mostly seaweed and not trash, so it makes it ok.

The holy crystal cave is no longer operating, it’s under “new management” and was closed at the time of writing.

Camotes Islands Itinerary

Two full days are sufficient to explore both Poro and Pacijan and all the Camotes Island tourist spots, you can add a day if you want to relax at the beach. On the first day, you can explore Poro Island. In the morning visit the church then head to Mactan Beach. After lunch, go to Busay Fall and finish your day visiting Bukilat cave. The next day, explore Pacijan. Start at Santiago Bay, then head for Danao Lake, you can have lunch there. In the afternoon, visit Timubo Cave, next go to Tulang Island if the weather allows it, and finish the day watching the sunset at Bakkaw Beach.   

Camotes Islands Itinerary: How to get around

The best way to explore the island is by motorbike, there’s almost no public transportation and it’s really hard to get information about it. When you get off the boat there are sometimes buses that are on it and that cross the island to drop passengers off. You can hitch a ride with them. Otherwise, you should be able to hire a motorbike, you should pay 100 pesos maximum to San Francisco. Bargain hard because they’ll charge more for tourists.

To rent a motorbike you can call Jims (09265015537) he’s a really nice and honest guy, or go in front of Isobella’s Inn in San Francisco. The price is 500 pesos for 24hours, they also usually can do half days. You’ll only find semi-automatic bikes for rent and helmets are hard to find. The roads are really good, some part may get muddy if it has been raining for a while though.

Camotes Islands Itinerary: Where to stay

There’s plenty of resorts there for about 1000 pesos, most of them are on Agoda, be careful with the “beachfront” especially on Poro Island, where it’s mostly cliffs and rocky beaches.

If you are on a budget you can stay in Alyanarah (300 pesos a night), in San Francisco, the main town. It’s a central location and from there it’s easy to rent a bike and explore the islands. The hotel is really basic and a bit noisy but the WiFi is super good.

How to get to Camotes Islands

From Cebu, you can take an express boat from the port for about 600 pesos or you can take a ferry in Danao for 200 pesos. To get to Danao from Cebu, take a jeepney (30 pesos) or an air-con van in front of SM mall.

There are also boats coming from Ormoc in Leyte .

Related articles to help you plan your trip to the Philippines:

• Best things to do in Cebu
• Philippines – Every you need to know before going
• Bantayan Island travel guide
• Oslob – Whale Sharks encounter

Like it? Save it for later – Camotes Island Itinerary and tourist spots:

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Travel Guide

Moscow's opulence and high culture is a sight to be seen. Forget what you learned about Russia in grade school. This lavish capital of a formerly communist nation has fully embraced the luxuries, excesses and decadence of Western capitalism. Like many former Soviet countries, Mother Russia struggles to successfully confront issues of widespread poverty, alcoholism, failing healthcare, and environmental protection. But Moscow has burgeoned into one of the most expensive, exclusive and largest travel destinations in the world. It comes complete with world-class museums, magnificent palaces, $1,000-a-night hotels, "face-control" nightclubs and internationally-renowned restaurants. Don't think you can afford Moscow? Don't be afraid. You can still find affordable deals if you are vigilant. This metropolis has a big and bold character and grandiose setting that's definitely worth getting to know.

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90+ Moscow tourist attractions: what to see in Moscow, Russia

A huge list of the best Moscow tourist attractions.

Before the pandemic I used to visit Moscow every year. I would usually go there for a week, and I would still find new places to visit and things to do. Many people don’t realise how huge Moscow is and how many tourist attractions are there. Unfortunately, not all of these fantastic places are maintained, some are abandoned and can be enjoyed from outside only. Still, Moscow has attractions to satisfy the taste and requirements of any tourist and here I have a huge list of more than 90 places.

But let’s start with one of the most famous Moscow landmarks: the Kremlin!

NB : the post is very long, so just go to the table of contents and click on the section that interests you.

The Kremlin and its surroundings

The Kremlin should be in every list of Moscow tourist attractions 😊 You can easily spend a day exploring it and the surroundings.

1. The Kremlin : here you should definitely visit the Cathedral Square with its ensemble of old churches. Their interior is truly amazing with painted icons and graves of famous Russian rulers (in the Archangel Cathedral) – as Ivan the Terrible, for example. You can climb Ivan the Great Bell Tower to see the square from above. Then there is the Armoury Chamber with its huge collection of royal regalia and gifts and everyday objects and the Diamond fund with, well, diamonds and other jewelry.

2. The Mausoleum . Frankly, despite visiting Moscow so many times, I have never been to the Mausoleum. Somehow, the thought of seeing Lenin doesn’t seem appealing to me, but, maybe, you want it. The entrance is free, at least.

3. The Red Square is the first place where every tourist goes. It is the center, the heart of Moscow and many tourist attractions are located there.

4. GUM is a huge shopping center on the Red Square. It is quite expensive, so not so many people go there for shopping. Still, it is a fancy place. In addition, there is a huge supermarket there and the famous canteen Stolovaya 57, so go there for a quick lunch.

5. Kilometer Zero of Moscow is at the Resurrection (Voskresensky) Gates at the Red Square. It symbolises the beginning of all roads in Russia. It is a square with a circle in the center: the edges have depictions of animals.

6. Aleksandrovsky Garden is at the Kremlin walls. It has amazing flower beds, fountains with fairytale sculptures, and there are lots of benches to rest your feet. The garden is famous for the monuments of the wars in 1812 and 1941-1945. And the eternal flame is here.

7. St Basil’s Cathedral is the most famous one in Moscow. Its colourful onion domes are easily noticed from afar. Ivan the Terrible ordered its construction to commemorate the capture of two cities, Kazan and Astrakhan. Now it is a symbol of Russia alongside other notable monuments.

8. Kazan Cathedral is another church on the Red Square. It’s not as lavishly decorated as St Basil’s, but it is a functioning church, so everyone can go inside. It’s not the original church, but a reconstruction: the original one was destroyed by Stalin’s order.

9. Change of guards happens every hour at the eternal flame in Aleksandrovsky Garden. It is quite a show with soldiers marching and music playing and many tourists gather at the spot to see it.

10. Monument to Vladimir the Great is a recent addition to the list of tourist attractions of Moscow: it was mounted in 2016. Vladimir the Great is one of the greatest rulers of Kievan Rus. The monument is 17,5 meters high and is located close to the Kremlin.

Parks and gardens

11. Zaryadye is not far from the Kremlin on the historical Varvarka Street. In addition to being a park, its floating bridge offers spectacular views of the Kremlin, the Moskva River, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour and one of Stalin’s skyscrapers.

12. Gorky Park : shadowy alleys with benches to rest, fountains with music, a roller-skating rink, a pond with boats: Gorky park has everything! You can rent bicycles, skateboards, rollers, boats, and have some fun!

13. Sokolniki Park is huge and has numerous activities on offer like skateboarding, roller-skating, bicycles, ping-pong tables, a swimming pool, etc. Sometimes concerts and performances are held there.

14. Museon is next to Gorky Park and is famous for its weird sculptures and statues of Soviet rulers.

15. Aptekarsky Ogorod or the Apothecary Garden is the most famous garden in Moscow. It was founded by Peter the Great as a place to grow medicinal herbs, but expanded its collection of plants greatly.

16. Ermitazh Garden is one of the most beloved in Moscow. It was opened in 1894 and offered open-air concerts. Today performances and art exhibitions are held in the park. There are a couple of theaters in the territory and classes for kids.

17. Yekaterininsky Park is a monument to garden art. It has amazing flower beds and a huge pond with boats for rent. There are designated places for doing sports and a covered stage for live performances.

18. Patriarch’s Ponds are surrounded by trees today, but about 300 years ago it was a marshy place. At the end of the 17th century these marshes were dried and three ponds were dug. Later two of the ponds were filled up and trees were planted around the remaining one. The ponds became famous because namely here Mikhail Bulgakov’s masterpiece ‘The Master and Margarita’ starts.

19. Ostankino Park is now a part of VDNKh. It is huge and has plenty of facilities like bicycle tracks, paths for horse riding, open-air gyms, and the biggest open-air skatepark in Europe. Naturally, locals love it and it’s always full of people.

20. Clean Ponds : in the 17th century the place was called ‘Filthy marshes’ or ‘pagan marshes’ (depends on the interpretation). Later it was cleaned and nowadays it is a long pond which turns into a skate-rink in winter. Quite often artists put their paintings alongside the pond for passers-by to see. And there is an amazing song by famous I. Talkov about the place.

Did you know that there are more than 400 museums in Moscow? Of course, you can’t visit them all, so here I have a list of the most well-known and beloved ones in the city.

21. Tretyakov Gallery has several buildings, one of them dedicated to the 20th century art of Russia and the Soviet Union, and the other one to the Russian art at much earlier period till the 19th century. The latter one exhibits Vasnetsov’s, Shiskin’s, Serov’s, Ayvazovsky’s masterpieces. The vaults of the museum house a huge collection of old icons, the majority from the 14th century.

22. State Historical Museum : the dark red building of the museum on the Red Square is hard to miss. It houses huge collections of gold artifacts, manuscripts, jewelry, ceramics, old books, religious paintings, historical costumes, etc. Its coin collection has more than 1,7 million units!

23. Just like Tretyakov Gallery, the Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts is the right place for art lovers. There are about 700,000 exhibits in the museum collection, including masterpieces of Matisse, Renoir, Picasso, Degas, Rubens, etc. It includes a huge collection of sculptures and archeological objects.

24. The Archaeological Museum of Moscow is an underground museum and is dedicated to the archeological diggings in the city. There are about 2,000 exhibits from the Paleolithic, Mesolithic and Neolithic ages.

25. Moscow Museum of Modern Art . It is the project of the famous Zurab Tsereteli and his private collection is the core of the museum. There are numerous paintings and sculptures by the artists of the 20th century, including those of Picasso, Dali and Miro.

26. State Darwin Museum . This huge museum houses a collection of 400,000 exhibits, mostly stuffed animals. From what I have seen kids enjoy it immensely.

27. The Orlov Museum of Paleontology : as the name suggests, it houses everything related to paleontology. There are more than 5,000 exhibits from the Precambrian, Palaeozoic, Mezozoic and Caenozoic ages: ammonites, reptiles, skeletons of dinosaurs, etc.

28. The Museum of Cosmonautics is not far from the VDNKh and its collection includes technical devices, documents, personal belongings of cosmonauts, pictures, paintings, stamps, coins, etc.

29. The State Museum of Oriental Art was founded in 1918 to preserve the cultural heritage of the Eastern republics of the Soviet Union. Now it houses huge collections of Japanese, Korean, Arabian, Indian art in addition to those of the Soviet republics. In 2017 the famous Russian painter Nicholas Roerich’s collection was handed over to the museum.

30. Bulgakov Museum : the museum is dedicated to the famous writer Mikhail Bulgakov, the author of ‘The Master and Margarita’. It includes about 3,000 exhibits: letters, documents, pictures, furniture and personal belongings.

31. Museum of Soviet Arcade Machines : do you want to play an old Soviet arcade game? Just go to this museum! At the entrance you buy coins/tokens that you can use to play on any machine inside the museum.

32. Victory Museum on Poklonnaya Hill is dedicated to soldiers who fought and fell during the war of 1941-1945. It has several thematic halls, panoramas and a memory book.

33. Military exhibition on Poklonnaya Hill : this is another museum on Poklonnaya Hill and has a huge collection of military equipment, including tanks, planes, artillery, etc.

34. Museum-panorama “Battle of Borodino” : this museum is dedicated to one of the most famous battles of 1812 during the war between the Russian Empire and France. It is interesting that both sides claimed later that they won this battle.

Other places

35. Varvarka Street : there are some magnificent churches on the street and some historical buildings like the Old English Court, the oldest office of another country in Moscow, and the Chambers of the Romanov Boyars exhibiting the residential and household interior of the 16th-17th centuries.

36. VDNKh or the Exhibition of Achievements of National Economy or All-Russian Exhibition Center is one of the most popular places in Moscow. It was built in the 1930-ies to showcase the achievements of the Soviet Union in the field of agriculture. Every building has its own style and was to either represent a Soviet republic or house a specific collection. The highlight is the fountains with famous sculptures like the Friendship of Peoples and the Stone Flower on the central alley. And, I guess, everyone is excited to see the replica of the famous Vostok rocket.

37. Moscow Planetarium is the oldest one in Russia. It houses multiple exhibits and replicas, but my favorite parts are the hall with a huge dome for watching movies and the exhibits on the roof.

38. Poklonnaya Hill : its name can be translated as bow-down hill and the monuments and park on it are dedicated to the victory in the Great Patriotic War (1941-1945). Wait here until it gets dark: the fountains and columns get illuminated with red color, which is a magnificent sight.

39. Monument to Peter I on the Moskva River designed by the famous Zurab Tsereteli is 98 meters high. It is quite noticeable, but while it looks imposing, not everyone likes it. They even wanted to dismantle it and move it to another place, but it proved to be too expensive. By the way, this monument was in the top 10 of the ugliest ones in the world according to Virtual Tourist platform.

40. Krutitskoye Podvorye . This is the place where the spirit of olden times still lives: the buildings are old, it is quiet and cosy here. This courtyard belonged to Krutitsky Metropolitans, and a couple of churches from the 17th century are preserved along with palaces and houses.

41. Izmaylovsky Kremlin . You just have to see the colorful buildings, which replicate terems, houses in the traditional Russian architectural style. The Kremlin is packed with museums, there are several places to eat, so you won’t starve there. The biggest part of the Kremlin is a flea market with dozens of stalls with souvenirs, matreshkas, coins, boxes with traditional ornaments, furs, paintings, clocks, amber, shawls, clothes, books, icons, Soviet times items.

42. Stalin’s Bunker in Izmaylovo was built in the 1930-ies. There is a 17 kilometer long underground road that leads from the bunker to the center of Moscow. There is another bunker in Taganka.

43. Bolshoi Theater is one of the most well-known opera and ballet theaters in the world. It’s located not far from the Red Square, so just take some time to see it. If you are lucky to get tickets, lucky, because you should buy them long in advance, then you will see some of the best performances.

44. Metro tour . Moscow metro is one of the most beautiful in the world, it’s a fact. You can see everything here: stucco, paintings, sculptures, chandeliers, gilded walls, vibrant colours… some stations are true masterpieces! Pay a visit to Mayakovskaya, Kievskaya, Novoperedelkino, Komsomolskaya, Rasskazovka, Elektrozavodskaya, Ploshchad Revolyutsii (Revolution Square), Novoslobodskaya, Novokuznetskaya, Arbatskaya, etc.

45. Trubnaya Square/Tsvetnoy Boulevard is a magnificent place! Just make sure you go there in summer when everything is green and flowers are blooming. The boulevard is famous for Nikulin’s Circus. I have not been to the circus, so I like the boulevard for its park with circus-related sculptures and arches with blooming flowers and the views from the nearby Trubnaya square.

46. Strastnoy Boulevard is one of the most important streets in Moscow. It is a nice area with an alley and monuments. And there are many notable buildings along the boulevard.

47. Arbat is the most famous pedestrian street in Moscow: it starts at Smolenskaya metro station and runs almost till the Red Square. Arbat is full of fancy buildings and restaurants.

48. Alley of the rulers of Russia  is a place to see all the rulers at once. It is a small exhibition of busts hidden from the eyes of tourists. When I was there, I saw only three other people around. This is the place to see Ivan the Terrible, Alexander Nevsky, emperors from the Romanov family, Lenin and Yeltsin.

49. Triumphal Arch at Poklonnaya Hill was erected in the 1830-ies to commemorate the victory in the Patriotic War of 1812.

50. Moscow Mosque . The first mosque was built in 1904, but in 2011 it was demolished to erect a new one. Now it is a huge building with vibrant colors and minarets of different sizes. By the way, they used 12 kilograms of leaf-gold to decorate the dome and minarets.

51. In Russia there were many merchant courts ( gostinyy dvor in Russian), where people used to sell their goods. The one in Moscow was built in the 17th century, but it suffered a lot during the years, especially during the siege of Moscow in 1812. Now the building doesn’t house shops anymore, it is used for exhibitions.

52. Eliseyevskiy Supermarket isn’t a simple supermarket, it’s an experience. The interior is amazing, with intricate decoration, columns, chandeliers. Some people visit it like a museum. There are rumours that they want to close the supermarket, because it’s unclear who the actual building belongs to.

53. The teahouse on Myasnitskaya Street is a special building as well. It is easily recognisable thanks to the pseudo-Chinese decorative elements on its facade. At the beginning of the 20th century it was a tea shop and had apartments for rent. Now the first floor is a shop and they still sell tea there.

54. Bogdan Khmelnitsky (Kievsky) Pedestrian Bridge : this pedestrian glass-covered bridge offers stunning views of Moscow. And, naturally, it is more beautiful at night, when the lights are on.

55. Zhivopisny Bridge : this bridge is famous for its bright red arch, which is very photogenic at night.

Panoramic decks

56. Sparrow Hills : this panoramic deck is right in front of the Moscow State University building. From here visitors can see the famous Luzhniki Stadium, Stalin’s skyscrapers, Moscow-City, etc. Getting there requires a bit of effort: first you have to get to Vorobyovy Gory metro station which is under the bridge and then follow a path up the hill. Frankly, it is better to follow the crowd after exiting the station.

57. Deck at the Academy of Sciences is closer to the city center and offers views of Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow-City, the Kremlin, the statue to Peter I, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour. Frankly, this view is much better than the one from Sparrow Hills. Getting here is easier: just get to Leninsky Prospect metro station and follow a straight road to the deck.

58. Moscow City is a group of skyscrapers at the riverfront. Every skyscraper is built in its own fashion and has a name. Many of them are higher than 330 meters! The highest one is Vostok Federation Tower: it is 374 meters high! The 360 panoramic deck in the above-mentioned Federation Tower offers stunning views of Moscow.

59. Ostankino Tower : this place offers the farthest view of Moscow and it is not a wonder: the panoramic deck is at about 330 meters height. Personally, I prefer the other three decks, as this one is quite far from the city center.

Estates and mansions

As you probably know, Peter the Great moved the capital from Moscow to St Petersburg in 1712, so, naturally, many noble families built estates in the new capital, and the royals erected palaces there. Still, there are some in Moscow, and you should definitely see them.

NB: I have another post on some of the residences below with more information: click here to read it.

60. Kolomenskoye : before Peter I moved the capital from Moscow to St Petersburg, Kolomenskoye was the main royal residence. Michael I Romanov loved the place, but it was his son Alexis I the Quietest who built a magnificent wooden palace. While almost all the buildings in the area were erected in the 16th-18th centuries, the wooden palace is not the original one: Catherine the Great ordered its demolition to build another palace. The one visitors see now is an exact modern replica built between 2008-2010. However, the majority of the objects inside the palace are authentic.

61. Izmaylovo under the Romanovs started as a farm and a production unit and included glass and brick plants, bee garden, linen manufacture, livestock, etc. In addition, they built churches, towers and a wooden palace. According to some historians Peter the Great was born in Izmaylovo. Anna of Russia opened a zoo there, the biggest one in the empire, and tigers and lions lived there. During the reign of Catherine the Great many buildings were demolished, and many years after that Nicholas I ordered to build an asylum for the military. Some of the gates, churches and the asylum can still be seen today. Izmaylovo estate is close to the Izmaylovsky Kremlin I mentioned above.

62. Tsarytsyno is strongly associated with Catherine the Great. Though St Petersburg was the capital of the country during her reign, Catherine the Great bought Black Mud manor, renamed it into Tsaritsyno (tsaritsa is czarina is Russian) and ordered the construction of a huge complex. She died before the construction finished, and her son wasn’t interested in the project.

63. Liublino is located quite far from the center of Moscow. In 1800 a rich merchant Nikolay Durasov bought the place and built a palace in the form of a cross. It is luxurious, with exquisite furniture, silky drapes, columns, but what makes it special is its decoration. Nicholas Durasov adored theater so he decorated his home with scenes from ancient mythology. Just lift your head up, look at the ceilings and walls and you will see the muses, Apollo, Cupid, Gratiae…

64. Kuskovo Manor was a summer residence of the Sheremetev family, one of the wealthiest in the Russian Empire. There are many buildings in the complex, including the palace itself, kitchens, the Dutch house, the Grotto with naval decorative elements, the Italian house with some exhibits and the Great Stone Orangery. The main palace is built right in front of a pond. The decoration is rich, with tapestries, colorful fabric wallpaper, chandeliers, furniture. One of the most beautiful parts of the palace is the Mirror Hall.

65. Vorontsovo estate belonged to many people, including Ivan the Terrible. The place was first mentioned in the 14th century and since then changed owners frequently, until it was gifted to N. Repnin in the 17th century: he and his heirs erected the main buildings of the estate. At the beginning of the 19th century the place was rented out as summer residences and one of the tenants planned to build a dirigible there, but it didn’t work out. During the Soviet period it served as a collective farm, prison, then a scientific institute. Many buildings were either destroyed or reorganized, so not much is left of the original estate. Nowadays Vorontsovo is more of a park with different facilities, but some buildings are still there to see like the entrance gates, service premises and the church.

66. Kuzminki-Blachernae was a huge residence that belonged to Golitsyns, one of the most prominent noble families in the Russian Empire. The complex included numerous buildings, but at the moment almost all of them are in decay. The main palace burnt down in 1916, and after the revolution they gave the estate to the Institute of Experimental Veterinary. Many buildings were converted into laboratories and administrative premises, but the place is abandoned now, except one building that houses a museum.

Monasteries

Monasteries in Russia weren’t only places for religious ceremonies and monastic life. No, many of them were built to serve as fortifications to defend the city, and sometimes the defenders would find shelter behind its walls. That’s why don’t be surprised when you see thick walls: if it weren’t for church domes, one would think that it is a proper fortress. All the monasteries and convents were extremely important and the rulers of the country would usually donate money to build additional premises and decorate the churches.

The ones I mention below are very old. Some of them were used as prisons for the members of the royal family, some served as shelters during wars, others had facilities to care for the wounded, but many of them were located outside the city walls and served as a barrier: during attacks they would take the first blow giving Moscow time to prepare. Nevertheless, when the Soviet rule came, they all shared a similar fate.

67. Novodevichy Convent is the most famous one in Moscow. It was founded in 1524 and the buildings are still preserved. Many noble women took monastic vows and ended up living in the convent, some were forced to do it. During troublesome times, the royals hid there. The monastery was rich: for example, at the beginning of the 18th century 15,000 serfs belonged to the convent. Its cemetery is well-known as well, some notable people are buried there, so many people visit it just to see the graves. The convent was declared a UNESCO site.

68. Novospassky Monastery was founded in 1490, but became popular after the Romanovs came to power as it was their family burial vault. Before Peter I moved to St Petersburg, it was a burial place for many noble families like Naryshkins, Sheremetevs, Trubetskoys, etc., but during the Soviet times many graves were brought to ruin or moved to other places. The monastery was turned into a prison, and later was given to the NKVD.

69. Donskoy Monastery : this red-walled monastery was founded in 1591 after the victory over a Crimean khan, but many buildings were added later by tsars and noble people. During the siege of Moscow in 1812 soldiers were stationed there and they ruined the monastery and stole many valuables. Many famous people are buried in its territory, including Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn. When the Soviets came to power, they turned it into a museum.

70. Conception Convent or Zachatyevsky Monastery: the fate of this monastery wasn’t easy. It was founded in the 1360-ies, but its main cathedral was built at the end of the 17th century. This very cathedral was later destroyed to erect a neo-gothic one. During the Soviet times it was turned into a prison, the cathedral and other premises were demolished, so after the collapse of the USSR they had to build a new one. Now the main church of the monastery, the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Holy Mother of God, is a recent addition.

71. Vysokopetrovsky Monastery is hidden behind walls and few people, even fewer tourists, know of its existence. Founded in 1315 by Metropolitan Archbishop Peter, its first churches were wooden, the stone ones were built later. In 1812 the French ransacked the monastery, they passed death sentences here and buried people at the bell tower. In the 1920-ies monks organised a backstreet monastic community here, but some of its members were later executed. The Soviets opened a library, a plant and shared flats in the monastery. It would be fair to say that restoration works started during the Soviet rule.

72. Andreevsky Monastery : the fate of this monastery is weird, frankly. It was founded in the 17th century, but there weren’t many monks there. In 1724 Peter I ordered to move the monks to Donskoy Monastery, and turn Andreevsky one into an orphanage and prison. Later it became a home for the insane and an asylum. In the meantime, some churches of the monastery were still active, and in 1991 it became a fully functioning monastery when all its churches opened.

73. Danilov Monastery : the monastery got its name because its founder was Daniel of Moscow, one of Alexander Nevsky’s sons. It was founded in 1282, but shortly after that it was moved to another place. Ivan the Terrible gave the place a new life and ordered to build a new church close to Daniel’s grave. Because the monastery was at the epicenter of many battles, it was ransacked often. During the Soviet times it was turned into a warehouse and Charles Crane, an American businessman, bought its bells and took them to Harvard University, but they were returned in 2008.

74. Sretensky Monastery was founded in 1395. Initially, there was only a church, but, according to a legend, an icon from the church helped to avoid the invasion of khan Tamerlane, so the ruler of the country ordered to build a monastery around it. It was enlarged during the next centuries, but in the 18th century it lost its significance and fell to decay, but the situation changed in the middle of the 19th century when the area was renovated. By the end of the 19th century it was the most famous monastery in Moscow. During the Soviet times some of its premises were demolished, icons were handed over to museums, and the rest of buildings were given to the NKVD. A new cathedral was built in the 21st century, but to do it they had to demolish some of the remaining buildings.

75. Ivanovsky Convent : it was founded as a friary, but was later turned into a convent. It served as a kind of prison as well for royal wives. When the capital was moved to St Petersburg, the convent fell into neglect, in 1812 it was burned and restored in 1865 only. Soldiers wounded during Russo-Turkish war would be sent to the convent. During the Soviet times it was given first to the NKVD and turned into a concentration camp, and later to the Department of Internal Affairs. Even nowadays, when many buildings are restored and religious services are held, some of the premises still belong to the department.

76. Simonov Monastery was named after boyar Stepan Khovrin, who donated lands to start it. He later became a monk and took Simon as his monastic name. Just like in the case of the monasteries above, the new buildings were added gradually, and the monastery was quite rich: at the end of the 17th century about 25,000 serfs belonged to it. During the reign of Catherine the Great it was turned into a sickbay, but the place was later restored. During the Soviet times many buildings were blown up to build a Hall of Culture.

Personally, I am a big fan of the Slavic church architecture. The churches are so vibrant, have intricate decorative elements, and just please the eye. Whenever I go to a Russian city, I dedicate some time to exploring churches. If you aren’t like me, just skip this section, but, maybe, a couple of pictures will change your mind 😊

77. Cathedral of Christ the Saviour : this is the main cathedral in Moscow, and you definitely have to see it. Its white walls and golden domes are seen from afar, inside it’s vibrant and bright. For a price you can climb up to its dome. In addition, get to the bridge nearby: the views of Moscow are stunning!

78. St Clement’s Church : this red and white church with blue and golden domes is located at Tretyakovskaya metro station relatively close to Tretyakov Gallery, so you might as well spend some time to admire its colors. It is built in Baroque style, which is unusual for Moscow, and is dedicated to Clement, a Roman pope, which is surprising as well.

79. Cathedral of St Nicholas in Klenniki is relatively close to the Kremlin, but if you are not in the area, there is no need to go to specifically see it. My hotel (I loved it, by the way), was nearby, and I passed by the church a couple of times a day. The church was built in 1657, but was damaged a lot in fires, so was constantly restored and renovated.

80. Temple of the Holy Trinity in Ostankino : this one you should definitely see! It is not far from the Ostankino Tower and VNDKh, so you can easily do it. The church was built at the end of the 17th century, and its distinctive feature is its decorative elements. It’s a monument of old Russian cult architecture.

81. All Saints Church in Kulishki : this one is really close to Zaryadye Park, so you can walk another 200 meters to see it. Its architecture is quite interesting as well, when you look at the windows, you can easily recognize old Russian style. When the Soviets came to power, they wanted to demolish the church, but used it for state security needs.

82. Resurrection Church in Kadashi Sloboda : this is another church not far from Tretyakov Gallery. It has peculiar architecture, and some parts of its facade are different from the other churches. It was ransacked in 1812, and during the Soviet times it housed the archive of the KGB. But today, after being restored, the golden domes of this red- and orange-walled church are seen from afar.

83. The Church of St. Vladimir in the Old Gardens : if you come to visit Ivanovsky Convent, this church will be across the road. The original church was built in 1516, but was rebuilt in the 17th century and lost almost all of its original elements. In 1980 a fire destroyed the books and frescoes and it was restored later. Today it is hard to miss this church with white walls.

84. The Church of the Entry of the Theotokos into the Temple in Barashi isn’t far from the Clean Ponds I mentioned above. It was built in Naryshkin’s baroque style in the 17th century and was richly decorated. During the Soviet times they handed the most previous icons over to Tretyakov Gallery and wanted to demolish it, but changed their mind and turned it into an electrical goods plant.

85. The Church of Deposition of the Robe on Donskoy : this church is close to Donskoy Monastery and Gorky Park, so you can as well go to see it. The stone church in Moscow baroque style was built in 1680 and was restored at the end of the 19th century. Interestingly, it didn’t close during the Soviet rule.

86. The Church of the Epiphany in Elokhovo : this one is quite far from any other Moscow landmarks, so it is unlikely you will go to see it 🙂 Unlike the churches I mentioned above, the walls of this one aren’t red, but light blue. It is said that Alexander Pushkin was baptised there.

Amazing buildings in Moscow

If you are into architecture or old Russian architectural style, you can spend some time looking for these buildings. Unfortunately, they can be enjoyed from the outside only (as far as I know, but I may be wrong), but if you are not far from them, why not have a look? 😊

87. House of Pashkov : it will be really hard to miss this white colossus not far from the Kremlin and the monument to Vladimir. It was built at the end of the 18th century and was later turned into a university. Now it houses the Russian State Library and it is possible to visit it during a tour : it is expensive and it looks like they accept groups only.

88. Egg house on Mashkov Street : this truly weird building looks like … an egg and was inspired by Faberge eggs. It was built in 2000-2002, so it is a relatively new addition to the architectural masterpieces of the city. Because it is weird, many people don’t like it and criticize the architect. And, frankly, it looks totally out of place. Nobody lives there: as the architect himself claims, the house isn’t very comfortable. If you have about 409 million rubles, you can buy it 😊

89. Arseny Morozov Mansion : the first owner of the building Arseny Morozov was inspired by Pena Palace in Sintra. Some say that Casa de las Conchas from Salamanca served as an inspiration as well, because there are shells on its façade. In any case, you won’t miss this snow-white building on Vozdvizhenka Street. By the way, the building was so weird for its times, that it was called ‘a fool’s house’. I think it is amazing!

90. Apraksins-Trubetskoys House at the Clean Ponds: the first owner of the baroque building was Count Apraksin, but it was later sold to the Trubetskoy family, hence the name of the mansion. In 1861 it became a school where some famous people like C. Stanislavsky studied. During the Soviet period the mansion was turned into an apartment building and then into a student dormitory. Now it could use some kind of renovation.

91. Volkov-Yusupov Chambers : unfortunately, this amazing building in Bol’shoy Khariton’yevskiy Pereulok (relatively close to the Egg house) isn’t open to the public, so you can see its façade only. It was turned into a museum for a couple of years, so it was possible to see its lavish interior, but not anymore. Now this building with red walls is hidden behind a neglected garden.

92. Stalin’s Seven Sisters or skyscrapers are 7 buildings commissioned by Stalin. There should have been 8 of them, but they didn’t finish the last one. These monumental buildings are a representation of the so-called Stalinist empire architectural style and are easily recognizable as they are so different from the surrounding cityscape. Sparrow Hills are a nice place to see them: actually, one of these skyscrapers, the building of Moscow State University, will be behind you 🙂 Another one you will see from the bridge in Zaryadye Park.

93. Averky Kirillov Chambers : if you come to see the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, just cross the Patriarshy Bridge and turn left. After about a hundred meters you will see an old house with red walls which can easily go unnoticed because of the huge buildings nearby. It belonged to Averky Kirillov, a notable merchant and state official. Built in the middle of the 17th century, it boasted exquisite decoration, but time and new owners didn’t spare it. It housed the Russian Institute of Culturology, but I am not sure what is there now.

Are there any other tourist attractions in Moscow that I missed? Tell me about them in the comments! 🙂

What to do in Moscow for free

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