December 02, 2015

Caramoan: How to Get There and Where to Stay

Caramoan is famous and popular mainly because of the reality show franchise, Survivor, filmed in the far-flung island. Since then, it has gained so much attention from both foreign and local tourists looking for unspoiled and unexploited beach havens.

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The crystal blue water

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But how do you get to Caramoan? Philippine Primer presents the best and most efficient ways to get to this beautiful paradise south of Luzon.

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The cool breeze of morning sunshine

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From Manila:

By Air

PAL (Philippine Airline) Express and Cebu Pacific daily flight from Manila to Naga Airport in the capital town of Pili, Camarines Sur or Manila to Legazpi Airport in the province of Albay increases to four times. Travel time is approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. Those coming from Legazpi should go directly to Naga thru bus and van. From Naga, catch a bus, jeepney or van going to Sabang Port. Travel time is around 2 hours. From Sabang Port, take a banca (small native boat) going to Caramoan and the travel time would take 2 hours. Be watchful on the airline promotions to enjoy affordable air fares.

One-way fare range thru Bus/Van (Naga to Sabang Port): P100 to 120

One-way fare boat (Sabang Port to Caramoan): P120

By Land

Bicol/Visayas bound buses have daily trips from Manila to Naga (day trip and night trip). Travel period is around 8 to 10 hours. Penafrancia Tours and Raymond Transportation have a direct trip going to Sabang Port. There are three terminals in Manila (Alabang/Cubao/Pasay) that are accessible to your point of origin.

Other bus companies like RSL Bus, DLTB, Philtranco, Isarogetc have daily trips to Naga.

One-way fare ranges from P700 to P1200 (One-Seater Bus)

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The powdery sandbar

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Tips:

The best time to travel and enjoy Caramoan is during summer/sunny/dry season (November to May) to avoid any kind of weather disturbance.

Always bring cash. You can withdraw from many commercial banks in Naga before going to Caramoan.

Always bring sunblock/repellent lotion for sun exposure/protection.

Drink plenty of water since most of the activities are swimming/island hopping/trekking.

Always say “Maray na aldaw po” which means “good day” in the local dialect.

Eat local delicacies like laing (gabi leaves), the signature dish Bicol Express and other sweet local specialties made from the region’s trademark, Pili fruit.

Always bring your camera and selfie stick so that you won’t miss all the amazing and awe-inspiring sights.

Always take care of the environment. Don’t throw trash or garbage in the island.

Love the nature.

Be friendly and always share your awesome smile.

Places to Stay:

There are many hotels and inns within the town proper. Camping in one of the islands is optional.

Here is a list of some noted hotels and inns in the area:

Rex Tourist Inn:

Mobile Numbers: +639198821879/+639193089675

Gota Village Resort:

Mobile Numbers: +639283083969

Telephone Numbers: (+632)8170831/(+632)7109086