Nestled on the southeastern coast of Negros Island within the Philippines, Dumaguete is a captivating coastal metropolis often called the “Metropolis of Light Folks” for its heat and welcoming locals.
This hidden gem gives a pleasant mix of historical past, journey, and leisure, making it a great base for exploring not simply the town itself but additionally close by wonders. From pure sights to thrilling day journeys, right here’s your final information to one of the best issues to do in and round Dumaguete.
Right here’s an summary:
Dumaguete Combo Excursions
Why juggle a bunch of separate excursions when you’ll be able to benefit from the very best itinerary?
We’ve made it tremendous straightforward so that you can take a look at extra sights with none of the stress. You’ll hit all of the must-see spots and preserve your price range joyful on the similar time!
Expertise Dumaguete within the Philippines.
Stroll Alongside Rizal Boulevard
Kick off your Dumaguete journey with a go to to Rizal Boulevard, the town’s iconic seaside promenade. Named after nationwide hero Jose Rizal, this palm-lined stretch gives breathtaking views of the Bohol Sea.
Stroll at dawn for a peaceable begin to the day or at nightfall when the road lamps create a romantic glow.
Native distributors promote road meals like balut and recent mangoes—good for a fast snack when you soak within the laid-back environment.
The fantastic thing about Rizal Boulevard.
Discover Silliman College
Based in 1901 as the primary American-established college within the Philippines, Silliman College boasts a phenomenal campus, mixing historic structure with lush greenery.
Historical past buffs will love the Anthropology Museum, dwelling to artifacts like pottery and instruments that showcase Negros Island’s heritage. A stroll right here gives perception into Dumaguete’s educational legacy and its position as a cultural hub.
The 100+ 12 months previous Silliman College.
Dive into Apo Island’s Underwater Paradise
Swim with turtles at Apo Island.
A brief boat experience from Dumaguete, Apo Island is a world-class diving and snorkeling vacation spot. This marine sanctuary teems with vibrant coral reefs, sea turtles, and tropical fish.
Whether or not you’re diving deep or snorkeling close to the floor, the clear waters and considerable marine life make it unforgettable. Ebook a day journey and swim alongside light sea turtles—it’s a spotlight you’ll treasure.
Get pleasure from crystal-clear waters at Apo Island.
Associated learn: Diving Spots within the Philippines
Chase Waterfalls at Casaroro Falls
The awe-inspiring Casaroro Falls.
Journey seekers ought to head to Casaroro Falls in Valencia, about half-hour from Dumaguete. This 100-foot waterfall, surrounded by lush rainforest, requires a trek down over 300 steps and a scenic path.
Swim within the cool, emerald pool on the base or just benefit from the serene magnificence. Put on sturdy sneakers and convey a digital camera—that is certainly one of Dumaguete’s most gorgeous pure wonders.
Soak up the great thing about Casaroro Falls.
Go to the Twin Lakes of Balinsasayao
Boats on the Twin Lakes of Balinsasayao.
Situated in Sibulan, an hour’s drive from Dumaguete, the Twin Lakes of Balinsasayao and Danao are crater lakes nestled in a volcanic panorama.
A person taking a photograph on the Twin Lakes of Balinsasayao.
Preferrred for climbing, kayaking, or birdwatching, this tranquil spot gives a peaceable escape. Hire a kayak to paddle throughout the calm waters, surrounded by dense forest and wildlife—it’s nature at its most interesting.
Adventurers on a ship on the Twin Lakes of Balinsasayao.
Alimyon Kapehan
Perched atop a hill in Janay-Janay, San Jose, Negros Oriental, Alimyon Kapehan is greater than only a espresso store—it’s a serene escape that blends rustic appeal with breathtaking views.
Situated simply 20 kilometers northwest of Dumaguete, this hidden gem has earned a status as a must-visit spot for vacationers in search of a peaceable retreat with a contact of native taste. “Alimyon,” which means “perfume” or “aroma” within the native dialect, completely captures the essence of this place—the place the scent of freshly brewed espresso mingles with the recent mountain air.
Rustic appeal at Alimyon Kapehan.
Chill out at Manjuyod Sandbar
The “Maldives of the Philippines,” Manjuyod Sandbar.
Usually dubbed the “Maldives of the Philippines,” Manjuyod Sandbar is a pristine stretch of white sand that emerges within the Tañon Strait throughout low tide. Situated close to Bais Metropolis, about 45 kilometers north of Dumaguete, it’s an ideal add-on to a dolphin-watching journey (see beneath).
Folks boating at Manjuyod Sandbar.
Hire a ship to go to this idyllic spot, the place you’ll be able to swim, sunbathe, or keep in stilted cottages for a novel in a single day expertise. It’s a postcard-worthy slice of paradise.
Expertise Dolphin Watching in Bais Metropolis
Additionally in Bais Metropolis, dolphin watching within the Tañon Strait is a must-do. Early morning boat excursions take you out to sea, the place playful dolphins leap alongside your vessel. When you’re fortunate (particularly between March and October), you would possibly spot whales too.
Pair this with a cease at Manjuyod Sandbar for a full day of marine magic.
Dolphin watching within the Tañon Strait.
Marvel on the Dumaguete Belfry
Subsequent to St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral, the Dumaguete Belfry is a historic bell tower relationship again to the 18th century. As soon as a watchtower towards pirate assaults, it now gives panoramic views of the town and sea from its prime.
The weathered brick facade and the adjoining cathedral’s elegant design make this a cultural spotlight value exploring.
The historic Dumaguete Belfry.
Savor Native Flavors on the Public Market
Dumaguete’s public market is a sensory delight. Attempt painitan (candy cacao drink) with sikwate (scorching chocolate with peanut butter) or bask in silvanas, a neighborhood deal with.
For a heartier meal, take pleasure in recent seafood or lechon (roasted pig). It’s additionally an awesome spot to seize souvenirs like crafts or dried fish.
Sticky rice with sugar, coconut milk, pure cocoa syrup, and mango within the public market.
Trek to Pulangbato Falls
Guests to Pulangbato Falls.
In Valencia, Pulangbato Falls stands out with its reddish hue, because of mineral-rich rocks. Extra accessible than Casaroro, it’s only a quick stroll from the street.
Swim within the refreshing pool or admire the distinctive rusty-red environment—it’s a soothing and photogenic day journey.
A picturesque view at Pulangbato Falls.
Chill out at Redrock Scorching Spring
Folks stress-free at Redrock Scorching Spring.
Crimson Rock Scorching Spring in Valencia, Negros Oriental, is a charming pure retreat tucked away within the lush highlands of the Philippines, only a 30-minute drive from Dumaguete Metropolis.
Situated in Barangay Caidiocan, this geothermal marvel is famend for its rust-colored rocks, stained by the mineral-rich waters that movement from a close-by sulfur mountain. The nice and cozy, therapeutic waters, starting from 37.5 to 39.5 levels Celsius, supply a soothing soak, believed by locals to alleviate illnesses like arthritis and muscle fatigue.
Surrounded by serene greenery and rustic cottages, the recent spring options two inviting swimming pools, good for leisure after a day of exploring close by sights like Pulangbato Falls.
With its tranquil ambiance, pleasant workers, and inexpensive meals choices, Crimson Rock Scorching Spring is a must-visit haven for vacationers in search of nature’s therapeutic contact within the coronary heart of Negros Oriental.
Associated learn: The best way to Get to Boracay from Manila, Philippines
The vista at Redrock Scorching Spring.
Seize a Photograph on the #DumaGetMe Signage
Snap a selfie on the #DumaGetMe signal alongside Rizal Boulevard, a playful nod to Dumaguete’s title (from dagit, which means “to grab”), suggesting it steals guests’ hearts. With the ocean as your backdrop, it’s a enjoyable approach to mark your journey.
Snap a selfie on the #DumaGetMe signage!
Dumaguete Combo Excursions
Why hassle with a bunch of separate excursions? We’ve put collectively some superior itineraries that allow you to soak in additional sights with none stress.
You’ll hit all of the must-see spots and preserve your price range joyful on the similar time!
Bonus: South Cebu Day Journeys from Dumaguete
Dumaguete’s proximity to Cebu (through ferry) makes it a wonderful base for exploring South Cebu’s iconic sights.
Listed here are three unmissable day journeys:
Oslob Whale Watching
Swim with whale sharks.
A one-hour ferry-and-van journey from Dumaguete, Oslob is known for its light whale sharks. Swim or snorkel alongside these large creatures in a accountable, guided expertise.
Early mornings are finest to keep away from crowds, and the sight of those giants gliding by the water is awe-inspiring.
Get able to swim at Oslob.
Moalboal Sardine Run Snorkeling
About two hours from Dumaguete, Moalboal’s sardine run is a mesmerizing underwater spectacle. Hundreds of thousands of sardines kind shimmering colleges simply off Panagsama Seaside, accessible to snorkelers and divers alike. Add a go to to close by Turtle Level to identify sea turtles—it’s a marine lover’s dream.
A diver’s dream with tens of millions of sardines.
Kawasan Canyoneering
Canyoneer at Kawasan Falls in Badian.
Additionally two hours away, Kawasan Falls in Badian gives an adrenaline-pumping canyoneering journey.
Leap off cliffs, swim by turquoise waters, and rappel down waterfalls with a information. The journey ends on the gorgeous Kawasan Falls, the place you’ll be able to cool off in its emerald swimming pools. It’s an exhilarating approach to cap your Cebu tour.
Courageous adventurers after canyoneering at Kawasan Falls in Badian.
Tumalog Falls
Tumalog Falls, nestled within the municipality of Oslob, Cebu, is a surprising pure marvel famend for its ethereal magnificence.
Usually referred to as “Magazine-ambak Falls” by locals, this waterfall incorporates a extensive, misty cascade that resembles a mild curtain of water tumbling down a moss-covered cliff, standing over 100 meters tall.
The falls movement right into a shallow, turquoise pool good for wading, surrounded by lush greenery that creates a tranquil, nearly otherworldly environment. Situated only a 20-minute drive from Oslob’s well-known whale shark watching website, Tumalog Falls is well accessible through a brief downhill stroll or a fast bike experience (habal-habal) from the parking space, costing round 50 pesos round-trip.
The water’s movement can range—lush and full throughout the wet season (June to November), however generally lowered to a trickle within the dry months (December to Might).
The majestic Tumalog Falls.
Sensible Ideas for Visiting Dumaguete
Getting there: Fly direct from Manila to Dumaguete-Sibulan Airport (1.5 hours) or take a ferry from Cebu. South Cebu journeys require a ferry to Cebu’s southern cities (e.g., Liloan or Santander).
Associated learn: What to do in 24 hours in Manila, Philippines
Getting round: Tricycles rule Dumaguete, whereas buses and vans connect with Valencia, Bais, and ferry ports. For Cebu journeys, prepare excursions or lease a van for comfort.
Finest time to go to: November to April gives dry climate, very best for outside enjoyable, although Dumaguete’s appeal shines year-round.
The place to remain: Keep close to Rizal Boulevard for straightforward entry to the town, or go for resorts nearer to ferry terminals for Cebu journeys.
Dumaguete is greater than only a vacation spot—it’s a gateway to journey, tradition, and pure magnificence.
From its serene boulevards and historic landmarks to close by wonders like Apo Island, Manjuyod Sandbar, and South Cebu’s thrilling sights, this “Metropolis of Light Folks” gives an ideal mixture of leisure and pleasure.
Whether or not you’re diving with whale sharks, chasing waterfalls, or sipping sikwate by the ocean, Dumaguete and its environment will steal your coronary heart. Pack your baggage and let this light metropolis present you why it’s a traveler’s paradise!
View all posts
Our mission at Travis Journey and Excursions is to be the best choice for distinctive bundle excursions in Dumaguete Metropolis, Siquijor Island, and South Cebu. We give attention to creating unforgettable journey experiences with a private contact. By providing a variety of resort, tour, and resort choices, we’ve constructed sturdy relationships with our purchasers. Our curated itineraries present wonderful financial savings and various experiences tailor-made to each traveler’s wants.
