DUMAGUETE + NEGROS TRAVEL GUIDE (Budget + Itinerary)

Dumaguete City in Negros Oriental has long been a tourist-magnet.  It is one of the more popular spots for expats who wish to retire in the Philippines.  The bustling city is home to the scenic Siliman University, the oldest American private university in the country.  Dumaguete City is dubbed as a University town because a large percentage of its population are University Student.  Despite its popularity to tourists, there’s really not much to see here.  You can even explore Dumaguete city attractions in a day or even half day! But many will agree that it is a good base for exploring its postcard-worthy neighbors such as Manjuyod, Bais, Dauis, Valencia and Siquijor.  You can even hop on a ferry here and head to Dapitan, Zambanga del Norte in Western Mindanao! So without further ado, here’s my Dumaguete Travel Guide to help you plan your trip.

 

DUMAGUETE TRAVEL GUIDE

 


HOW TO GET TO DUMAGUETE CITY


BY AIR

MANILA TO DUMAGUETE CITY

 

From Manila, Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines fly daily to Dumaguete City.

 

CEBU TO DUMAGUETE CITY

Both Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific fly between Cebu and Dumaguete.

 

dumaguete 8

 


BY BUS

 

CEBU TO DUMAGUETE

 

From Cebu South Bus Terminal, take a bus en route to Dumaguete City.  First trip is around 5:30 AM and last trip is at 6:00 PM.  Fare is about PHP 250 (USD 5/SGD 7/MYR 21).

 

BACOLOD TO DUMAGUETE

 

From South Ceres Terminal in Bacolod City, board a bus en route to Dumaguete City.  Travel time is about 5-6 hours and bus fare is roughly PHP 290 (USD 6/SGD 8/MYR 24).

 


BY FERRY

CEBU TO DUMAGUETE

VIA SANTANDER

Alternatively you can also ride a bus a bound for Liloan Port (Santander).  Air-conditioned bus fare is PHP 280 (USD 6/SGD 8/MYR 24) while the ordinary bus fare is around PHP 180 (USD 4/SGD 5/MYR 15). Travel time is approximately 3.5 hours.

Get off at Liloan Port in Santander, Cebu (the last stop) and purchase a ferry ticket to Sibulan Port (Negros).  Fast craft fare is PHP 62 (USD 1.22/SGD 1.66/MYR 5.23), includes terminal fee.  Transit time is about 25 minutes only.

At Sibulan Port in Negros, exit and look for a multi-cab to Dumaguete City.  They are usually found at the parking lot, should be easy to spot because touts usually shout to call passengers. Fare is PHP 13 (USD 0.26/SGD 0.35/MYR 1.10).

IMPORTANT:  At Liloan Port in Santander, they use a small fast craft that can only accommodate passengers not vehicles, so if you are bringing your car, you need to go to Bato. See directions below.

 

VIA BATO

 You can also go to Dumaguete City from Cebu via Bato (Cebu).  This is recommended if you have a car with you as the ferries here are large and can transport vehicles.  This is the route used by direct buses from Cebu to Dumaguete.

If you are commuting, you can ride a bus bound for Bato (Cebu) at South Bus Terminal.  Travel time is roughly 3.5 hours.   Get off at Bato and ride the ferry to Tampi in Amlan, Negros Oriental.  Ferry fare is PHP 70 (USD 1.38/SGD 2/MYR 6).

 


BOHOL (TAGBILARAN) TO DUMAGUETE


 

From Tagbilaran Bohol, you can ride the Oceanjet fast craft/ferry to Dumaguete City.  Travel time is roughly 2 hours.  Fare is PHP 700 (USD 14/ SGD 19/ MYR59) for Tourist Class/Open Air and PHP 1,020 (USD 20/ SGD 27/ MYR 86) for Business Class.

RESERVE FERRY TICKET HERE

Here’s the Oceanjet Fast craft/ferry Schedule from Tagbilaran Bohol to Dumaguete and vice versa.

 

FERRY SCHEDULEROUTETOURIST CLASS/OPEN AIRBUSINESS CLASS
07:30 AM – 09:30 AMTagbilaran (Bohol) to Dumaguete (Negros)PHP 700(USD 14/ SGD 19/ MYR59)PHP 1,020(USD 20/ SGD 27/ MYR 86)
12:10 PM – 02:10 PMTagbilaran (Bohol) to Dumaguete (Negros)PHP 700(USD 14/ SGD 19/ MYR59)PHP 1,020(USD 20/ SGD 27/ MYR 86)
09:50 AM – 11:50 AMDumaguete (Negros) to Tagbilaran (Bohol)PHP 700(USD 14/ SGD 19/ MYR59)PHP 1,020(USD 20/ SGD 27/ MYR 86)
02:30 PM – 04:30 PMDumaguete (Negros) to Tagbilaran (Bohol)PHP 700(USD 14/ SGD 19/ MYR59)PHP 1,020(USD 20/ SGD 27/ MYR 86)

 

dumaguete 25


SIQUIJOR TO DUMAGUETE


From Siquijor (Siquijor and Larena), you can go to Dumaguete via ferry and fast craft. Travel time is roughly 50 minutes.   Fare is PHP 230 (USD 5/ SGD 6/MYR 19) for Open Air/Tourist Class and Business Class fare is PHP 380 (USD 7/SGD 10/MYR 32).

Here’s the Oceanjet Fast craft/Ferry Schedule.  Take note that there are other fastcraft/ferries to Dumaguete from Siquijor and vice versa.  For a more comprehensive list, you may check here: DUMAGUETE-SIQUIJOR FERRY SCHEDULE

 

FERRY SCHEDULEROUTETOURIST CLASS/OPEN AIRBUSINESS CLASS
08:30 AM – 09:20 AMSiquijor (Siquijor) to Dumaguete (Negros)PHP 230 (USD 5/ SGD 6/MYR 19)PHP 380 (USD 7/SGD 10/MYR 32)
01:40 PM – 02:30 PMSiquijor (Siquijor) to Dumaguete (Negros)PHP 230 (USD 5/ SGD 6/MYR 19)PHP 380 (USD 7/SGD 10/MYR 32)
05:10 PM – 06:00 PMSiquijor (Siquijor) to Dumaguete (Negros)PHP 230 (USD 5/ SGD 6/MYR 19)PHP 380 (USD 7/SGD 10/MYR 32)
06:00 AM – 06:50 AMLarena (Siquijor) to Dumaguete (Negros)PHP 230 (USD 5/ SGD 6/MYR 19)PHP 380 (USD 7/SGD 10/MYR 32)
07:20 AM – 08:10 AMDumaguete (Negros) to Siquijor (Siquijor)PHP 230 (USD 5/ SGD 6/MYR 19)PHP 380 (USD 7/SGD 10/MYR 32)

 

12:30 PM – 01:20 PMDumaguete (Negros) to Siquijor (Siquijor)PHP 210 (USD 4/ SGD 6/MYR 8)PHP 380 (USD 7/SGD 10/MYR 32)
04:00 PM -04:50 PMDumaguete (Negros) to Siquijor (Siquijor)PHP 210 (USD 4/ SGD 6/MYR 8)PHP 380 (USD 7/SGD 10/MYR 32)
06:20 PM -07:10 PMLarena (Siquijor) to Dumaguete (Negros)PHP 230 (USD 5/ SGD 6/MYR 19)PHP 380 (USD 7/SGD 10/MYR 32)

 


 

DAPITAN TO DUMAGUETE

There are ferries and fastcraft that travel between Dapitan and Dumaguete. Travel time is roughly 3-4 hours.  Fare is approximately PHP 350 (USD 7/SGD 9/ MYR 30).

 


HOW TO GET FROM DUMAGUETE AIRPORT TO DUMAGUETE CITY


 

From the airport, you can take a cab or hire a tricycle to take you to Dumaguete City proper.  Make sure you negotiate with the driver and agree with the price first before riding the tricycle because usually tourists and foreigners are charged higher by tricycle drivers.  Chartered tricycle, good for 3-4 persons usually costs PHP 100 (USD 2/SGD 3/MYR 8) but some may charge you PHP 300 (USD 25.39/SGD 300/MYR 25.39).

To save a few bucks especially if you are traveling solo to Dumaguete, you can get out of the airport and hail a multi-cab to downtown Dumaguete.  Fare is PHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/ MYR0.85).

Alternatively you can ride a tricycle to Dumaguete town proper for about PHP 12 (USD 0.24/SGD 0.32/MYR 1).

 


GETTING AROUND DUMAGUETE


 
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Tricycle is the main mode of transportation around Dumaguete. Tricycle fare is PHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/ MYR0.85) for short distance rides.

To get to neighboring towns, you can ride a Ceres Bus at the Ceres Bus Terminal in Dumaguete City.

If you want to do a DIY Tour of Dumaguete, you can hire a motorcycle for about PHP 400 (USD 8/SGD 11/MYR 34) per day or PHP 1,400 (USD 28/SGD 38/MYR 118) per week.  You can find motorcycle rentals near the corner of Perdices and Sta. Rosa Street.

Meanwhile, hassle-free tours are offered by travel agencies scattered around Dumaguete City. I’ll recommend this for Apo Island especially if you are traveling alone.

 


DUMAGUETE CITY ATTRACTIONS


 

 
agoda attractions

Although there is not much to see in Dumaguete City itself, save for a handful of attractions walking distance from Rizal Boulevard like Siliman University and its Anthropology Museum, this university city is a good base for exploring its more charming neighbors like Manjuyod, Bais, Valencia, Apo Island in Dauin, Siquijor and Oslob (Cebu).

  • SILIMAN UNIVERSITY ANTHROPOLOGY MUSEUM
  • RIZAL AVENUE
  • DUMAGUETE CATHEDRAL

DUMAGUETE TOURS


 

If you want a hassle-free tour of Dumaguete City and beyond, book a tour package below:

 

DUMAGUETE CITY TOUR: RESERVE HERE

  • Explore the Silliman University campus and get an informative tour of the Anthropological Museum
  • Visit Dumaguete’s famous landmarks, including Ninoy Aquino Park and the oldest stone church on the island,
  • St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral
  • Pass by Rizal Boulevard lined with the best coffee shops and fine-dining restaurants
  • Drop by Sidlakang Negros Village for some handicraft and delicacy shopping 

 

MANJUYOD SANDBAR + TWIN LAKES TOU :RESERVE HERE

  • Explore the twin crater lakes of Balinsasayao and Danao, situated 1,000 feet above sea level
  • Marvel at the crystal clear lakes reflecting the emerald tones of the surrounding forests
  • Enjoy panoramic views of the Tanon Strait, Mt. Guintabon in the east and Mt. Guinsayawan in the west
  • Trek through the forests teeming with life with over 184 species of terrestrial vertebrates and 180 species of forest trees surrounding the twin lakes
  • See the most important sights of Dumaguete City with a visit to Siliman University, Handumanan Souvenir Shop, Sansrival Cafe and Dumaguete City Boulevard

 

TWIN LAKES TOUR: RESERVE HERE

  • Explore the twin crater lakes of Balinsasayao and Danao, situated 1,000 feet above sea level
  • Marvel at the crystal clear lakes reflecting the emerald tones of the surrounding forests
  • Enjoy panoramic views of the Tanon Strait, Mt. Guintabon in the east and Mt. Guinsayawan in the west
  • Trek through the forests teeming with life with over 184 species of terrestrial vertebrates and 180 species of forest trees surrounding the twin lakes
  • See the most important sights of Dumaguete City with a visit to Siliman University, Handumanan Souvenir Shop, Sansrival Cafe and Dumaguete City Boulevard

 

SIQUIJOR TOUR: RESERVE HERE

  • Explore the Silliman University campus and get an informative tour of the Anthropological Museum
  • Visit Dumaguete’s famous landmarks, including Ninoy Aquino Park and the oldest stone church on the island, St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral
  • Pass by Rizal Boulevard lined with the best coffee shops and fine-dining restaurants
  • Drop by Sidlakang Negros Village for some handicraft and delicacy shopping

 

SCUBA DIVING: RESERVE HERE

  • Discover the magical world of Dumaguete’s underwater gardens and see fans, hydroids, as well as soft and hard corals!
  • Learn about the equipment and the proper method of breathing underwater with your gear
  • Feel at ease with the careful constant guidance of your PADI certified Dive Master
  • A fantastic experience for both beginner divers and pros!

 

OSLOB TOUR: RESERVE HERE

  • Be greeted upon your arrival at Cebu’s Liloan Port by a friendly driver who will take you to Oslob
  • Tick off a bucketlist experience: swim and snorkel with whale sharks in the Philippines!
  • Participate in shark feeding and explore surrounding coral reefs
  • Climb up the breathtaking Tumalog Falls with its distinctive horsetail-like waterfall
  • Enjoy a hassle-free transfer back to the port after an adventure-filled day

 

 


DUMAGUETE SIDETRIPS


 

APO ISLAND

 
apo island

Apo Island is a popular side trip when visiting Dumaguete.  This tiny volcanic island, situated off the coast of Dauin, Negros Oriental is a marine reserved.  It is famous for its snorkeling sites and dive sites as well as the friendly sea turtles.

 

APO ISLAND TOURS:

If you are traveling alone or with a travel buddy, it is cheaper to join group tours to Apo Island from Dumaguete City.  Apo Island tours usually cost PHP 1,000 (USD 20/SGD 27/ MYR 85) to PHP 1,500 (USD 30/SGD 40/ MYR 127) per person.  The Apo Island tour package usually includes transportation, boat rental, snorkeling gears and lunch.

 

How to commute to Apo Island from Dumaguete City:

To get to Apo Island from Dumaguete, take a tricycle to Ceres Bus Terminal.  Ride the bus to Bayawan, make sure it will pass by Zamboagita.  Tell the conductor or driver to drop you off at Malapatay Market in Zamboangita. Air-conditioned bus fare is PHP 50 (USD 0.99/SGD 1.34/MYR 4.23) and PHP 25 (USD 0.49/SGD 0.67/MYR 2) for ordinary bus. Travel time is roughly 45 minutes.

At Malapatay Market, walk towards the coast and look for the Tourist Information Center. Charter a boat here to take you to Apo Island. Small boat to Apo Island that is good for 4 passengers is around PHP 2000 (USD 40/SGD 54/MYR 169), medium-sized boats that is good for up to 6 passengers is PHP 2,500 (USD 49/SGD 67/MYR 212) while large boat, good for 8 persons costs PHP 3,000 (US 59/SGD 80/MYR 254).

TIP: If you can find other tourist to share the cost of the boat, the small boat should cost you PHP 500 (USD 10/SGD 13.40/ MYR 42) per person only.

 


DOLPHIN WATCHING BAIS


 

dolphin

 


MANJUYOD WHITE SAND BAR


 

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The most beautiful sandbar in the Philippines that I’ve seen to date.  This tiny speck of sandbar situated off the coast of Manjuyod but also accessible from Bais.  The sandbar only appears when the tide is low, but even if it’s submerged, the island is still oozing with charm.  Manjuyod Sandbar is included in the Bais Dolphin Watching Tour.

 

MANJUYOD TOUR: RESERVE HERE

 

HOW TO GET TO MANJUYOD SANDBAR AND BAIS DOLPHIN WATCHING:

 

To get to Manjuyod Sandbar and Bais Dolphin Watching from Dumaguete, you need to ride a Ceres Bus to Bais and alight at Brgy.Calindagan.  Air-conditioned bus fare is PHP 50 (USD 0.99/SGD 1.34/MYR 4.23) while ordinary bus fare is PHP 20 (USD 0.40/SGD 0.54/MYR 2). Then from there, take a tricycle or habal-habal (motorcycle) to Capinahan Wharf  at South Bais (boats operated by Bais Tourism) or Canibol Wharf at North Bais (private boats). Fare is about PHP 200 (USD 17 /SGD 5.36/MYR 17).  At the port, charter a boat for island hopping, which includes Manjuyod Sandbar, Bais Dolphin Watching and Talabong Mangrove Tour.  Chartered boat (medium-sized boat) will set you back PHP 3,500 (USD 69/SGD 94/MYR 296), good for 10 persons.  Bigger boat, good for 11-15 persons should costs roughly PHP 5,000 (USD 99/SGD 134/MYR 423).

 

TIP: If you want to see the spinner dolphins, best to go there early, around 6:00 AM – 7:00 AM.

 

  ALSO READ: MANJUYOD SANDBAR TRAVEL GUIDE (Budget+Itinerary)

 


 BALINSASAYAO TWIN LAKES


 

 
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The protected area of Balinsasayao Twin Lakes actually covers Lake Kabalin-an, Laka Danao and Lake Balinsasayao.  So when you pay a visit here, you’ll get to see 3 lakes.  I find Lake Kabalin-an really picturesque because of the trees submerged in its placid, emerald water.  Too bad we were in a hurry (I went here via private tour courtesy of a resort) so I wasn’t able to take a decent photo of the lake. The area is part of 3 municipalities in Negros Oriental: Sibulan, San Jose and Valencia.

Balinsasayaw Twin Lakes Tour: RESERVE HERE

      • Tour package includes a visit to the twin crater lakes of Balinsasayao and Danao + Dumaguete City Tour (Siliman University, Handumanan Souvenir Shop, Sansrival Cafe and Dumaguete City Boulevard)

 

HOW TO GET TO BALINSASAYAO TWIN LAKES FROM DUMAGUETE:

 From Dumaguete City to get to Balinsasayao Twin Lakes, ride a jeep to Amlan and alight at La-laan junction in San Jose. Transit time is about 15 minutes and jeepney fare is roughly PHP 15(USD 0.30/SGD 0.40/MYR 1.27).

 At La-laan Junction, charter a habal-habal (motorcycle) to take you to Balinsasayao Twin Lakes National Park. Chartered motorcycle is PHP 400 (USD 8/SGD 11/MYR 34), good for two. Some drivers might fool you and charge you PHP 400 per person, look for other drivers that will offer you the same price for two persons.

At Balinsasayao Twin Lakes, pay the PHP 25 (USD 0.49/SGD 0.67/MYR 2) entrance fee per person.  If you wat to see the Twin Lakes, you can hike or ride the paddle boat, will set you back PHP 350 (USD 7/SGD 9.38/MYR 30), so that’s about PHP 58 (USD 1/SGD 10/MYR 5) per person if sharing with 5 travel buddies or 5 other tourists.

 

LIST OF BALINSASAYAO TWIN LAKE FEES:

FEESACTIVITIES
PHP 25 (USD 0.49/SGD 0.67/MYR 2)Entrance Fee per person
PHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/MYR 0.85)Parking Fee for motorcycle
PHP 25 (USD 0.49/SGD 0.67/MYR 2)Parking fee for cars
PHP 50 (USD 0.49/SGD 1.34/MYR 4.23)Cottages
PHP 350 (USD 7/SGD 9.38/MYR 30) or PHP 58 (USD 1/SGD 10/MYR 5) per personPaddle Boat, good for 6 persons

 


RED ROCK HOT SPRING


dumaguete 13

Red Rock Hot Springs is located at Pulangtubig, Valencia, just along the craggy road to Pulang Bato Waterfalls. The pool source its warm water from natural spots around the pool. Bring extra clothes if you plan to swim here as much as possible, avoid wearing light or pastel colored shirt as the water can stain your clothes. The water here is believed to be therapeutic.

 


PULANG BATO FALLS


 

dumaguete 16

As its name suggest, Pulang Bato is surrounded by natural red rocks where water gushes down.  According to the locals, this is because of sulfur coming from the nearby Mt. Talines.  Along the way, you will see Red Hot Spring.

 

HOW TO GET TO PULANG BATO FALLS AND CASARORO FALLS:

 

To get to Pulang Bato Falls in Valencia from Dumguete.  Ride a jeep to Valencia.  Alight at Valencia Terminal. Fare is about PHP 24 (USD 0.47/SGD 0.64/MYR 5).  From there, hire a habal-habal (motorcycle) to Pulang Bato Falls.  Fare is PHP 200 (USD 17 /SGD 5.36/MYR 17), good for two persons.  Add PHP 100 (USD 8/SGD 3/MYR 8.47) to include a visit to Casaroro Falls.   You will see Red Hot Spring during the hike on the way to Pulang Bato Falls. So that’s a total of PHP 300 (USD 25/SGD 8/MYR 25.40) for the two waterfalls including the Red Hot Spring.

Entrance fee to Casaroro Falls is PHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/ MYR0.85), entrance fee to Pulang Bato Waterfalls is PHP 20 (USD 0.40/SGD 0.54/MYR 2) and red Hot Spring entrance fee is PHP 20 (USD 0.40/SGD 0.54/MYR 2). So total of PHP 50 (USD 0.90/SGD 1.34/MYR 4.23) entrance fee for the 3 attractions.

 


SIQUIJOR

ALSO READ: SIQUIJOR TRAVEL GUIDE (Budget + Itinerary)


 WHERE TO EAT IN DUMAGUETE


 

DUMAGUETE FOOD

  • PAINITAN AT PUBLIC MARKET

          Serves native delicacies.  Must-try is the delicious budbud kabog.

          Address:

         Perdices Street, Dumaguete Public Market

 

  • TEMPURAHAN

          Address:

         Rizal Avenue, Dumaguete City

  • CAFÉ ANTONIO

          Café Antonio serves burgers and pizza.

           Address:

          San Juan corner Sta. Catalina Street. Dumguete City

 

  • SANS RIVAL CAKES AND PASTRIES

          Serves the famous Dumaguete silvanas and sansrival as well as other pastries and cakes.

Address:

San Jose Street, Dumaguete City

  • SANSRIVAL BISTRO

They serve the cakes and sanrivals, as well as pasta and rice meals.

Address:

San Jose Street corner Rizal Avenue, Dumaguete City

 

 


WHERE TO STAY IN DUMAGUETE


 

BUDGET hotels in Dumaguete

agoda flying fish collage

  •  The Flying Fish Hostel

32 Hibbard Avenue, Dumaguete City, Dumaguete

CHECK ROOM RATES HERE

 


agoda island

  • Islands Leisure Boutique Hotel & Spa

Hibbard Avenue, Bantayan, Across ABC Learning Center, Dumaguete City, Dumaguete

CHECK ROOM RATES HERE

 


agoda golden

Golden Gate Suites

Dumaguete – Dr. V Locsin St., Dumaguete City, Dumaguete, Philippines

CHECK ROOM RATES HERE

 


MID-RANGE

 

agoda acqua

  • Aqua Dive Resort

Maluay, Zamboanguita, Dumaguete

CHECK ROOM RATES HERE

 


agoda antulang 1

  • Antulang Beach Resort

Siit, Siaton, Negros Oriental, Siaton, Dumaguete

CHECK ROOM RATES HERE

 

 


AGODA KAVS

Kavs Beach Resort

Old Spanish Road, Zamboanguita, Dumaguete

CHECK ROOM RATES HERE

 


DUMAGUETE ITINERARY AND EXPENSES


 

dumaguete 22


Dumaguete Itinerary

 

(3 days 2 nights itinerary Dumaguete + Manjuyod/Bais + Twin Lakes)

 

Here’s a sample itinerary for Dumaguete for a 3 day 2 night stay in Dumaguete, includes a side trip to Balinsasayao Twin Lakes and Manjuyod Sandbar.  There’s not much to see in Dumaguete itself, you can explore it in half day, but like I said, the city is a good base for exploring the neighboring towns and provinces like Siquijor and South Cebu.  I created two sample itineraries here to help you plan your upcoming trip to Dumaguete City.

 

 EXPENSESACTIVITIES
DAY 1 TWIN LAKES + VALENCIA TOUR + DUMAGUETE CITY TOUR
07:00 AM ETD Manila to Dumaguete
08:25 AM ETA Dumaguete
08:50 AMPHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/ MYR0.85 )Multi-cab from Dumaguete Airport to Dumaguete City
09:10 AMPHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/ MYR0.85 )ETA Dumaguete City. Tricycle to hotel.
09:20 AMPHP 500 (USD 10/SGD 13/MYR 42)Check-in at Hotel. Freshen up.
09:45 AMPHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/ MYR0.85 )Tricycle to jeep terminal.
10:00 AMPHP 15(USD 0.30/SGD 0.40/MYR 1.27)

 

Depart for Balinsasayao Twin Lakes.  Ride jeep to Amlan. Tell driver you are headed to Balinsasayao Lake and you need to alight at La-laan Junction.
10:15 AMPHP 400 (USD 8/SGD 11/MYR 34), good for two or PHP 200 (USD 4/SGD 5.36/MYR 17) per person.Get off at La-laan Junction. Hire motorcycle to Twin Lakes.
11:00 PMPHP 25 (USD 0.49/SGD 0.67/MYR 2)Pay Entrance Fee at Twin Lakes. Explore. Hike up Twin Lakes.
12:30 PMEnd of Twin Lakes Tour. Back to La-Laan Junction.
01:00 PMPHP 15(USD 0.30/SGD 0.40/MYR 1.27)

 

Jeep back to Dumaguete City.
01:15 PMPHP 150 (USD 3 /SGD 4/MYR 13)Late lunch
02:00 PMPHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/ MYR0.85 )Tricycle to jeep terminal.
01:15 PMPHP 24 (USD 0.47/SGD 0.64/MYR 5)Ride jeep to Valencia.
01:50 PMPHP 300 (USD 25/SGD 8/MYR 25.40)Alight at Valencia Terminal and hire a habal-habal (motorcycle) to Casaroro Falls + Pulang Bato Falls & Red Hot Spring.
PHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/ MYR0.85 )Casaroro Falls Entrance Fee
PHP 20 (USD 0.40/SGD 0.54/MYR 2)Pulang Bato falls Entrance Fee
PHP 20 (USD 0.40/SGD 0.54/MYR 2)Red Hot Spring entrance Fee
03:30 PMEnd of tour. Back  to Valencia Terminal.
04:00 PMPHP 24 (USD 0.47/SGD 0.64/MYR 5)Ride jeep back to Dumaguete.
04:30 PMPHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/ MYR0.85 )Tricycle to Siliman University. Start exploring Dumaguete City:  Siliman University, Siliman University Anthropology Museum, Rizal Avenue, Dumaguete Cathedral.
06:00 PMSunset watching.
07:00 PMPHP 150 (USD 3 /SGD 4/MYR 13)Dinner. Socials.
10:00 PMSleep.
DAY 2 MANJUYOD SANDBAR + BAIS DOLPHIN WATCHING TOUR
05:00 AMPHP 100 (USD 8/SGD 3/MYR 8.47)Breakfast
05:30 AMPHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/ MYR0.85 )Tricycle to Bus terminal.
05:45 AMPHP 50 (USD 0.99/SGD 1.34/MYR 4.23)Bus to Bais.
06:00 AMPHP 200 (USD 17 /SGD 5.36/MYR 17).Buy packed lunch.  Tricycle or habal-habal (motorcycle) to Capinahan Wharf.
 PHP 3,500 (USD 69/SGD 94/MYR 296). PHP 350 (USD 7/SGD 9.38/MYR 4.23) each if 10 people will share the coast.

PHP 1,750 (USD 35/SGD 47/MYR 148) if two persons sharing.

At Capinahan Wharf rent a boat for island hopping, includes: Talabong Mangrove Tour, Bais Dolphin Watching + Manjuyod Sandbar.  Medium-sized boat is good for 10 pax. Larger Boat is good for 11-15 pax.
11:00 PMPHP 150 (USD 3 /SGD 4/MYR 13)Lunch
01:00 PMContinue island hopping tour. Swim, snorkel.
02:00 PMEnd of tour. Back to Capinahan Wharf.
02:30 PMPHP 200 (USD 17 /SGD 5.36/MYR 17).Tricycle or habal-habal to Bais Bus terminal.
PHP 50 (USD 0.99/SGD 1.34/MYR 4.23)Ride bus back to Dumaguete.
03:30 PMPHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/ MYR0.85 )ETA Dumaguete City. Tricycle back to hotel.  Freshen up. Buy souvenirs or rest.
07:00 PMDinner
09:00 PMSleep.
DAY 3 APO ISLAND TOUR
06:00 AMPHP 100 (USD 8/SGD 3/MYR 8.47)Breakfast
06:30 AMPHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/ MYR0.85 )Tricycle to bus terminal
07:15 AMPHP 50 (USD 0.99/SGD 1.34/MYR 4.23)Ride bus to Bayawan City (make sure it will pass by Zamboagita).  Tell the driver to drop you off at Malapatay Market in Zamboangita.  Alight at Malapatay Market.
07:30 AMPHP 2000 (USD 40/SGD 54/MYR 169), good for 4 persons. Share cost with other tourists for PHP 500 (USD 10/SGD 13.40/ MYR 42) each.  Or

PHP 1,000 (USD 20/SGD 27/MYR 85) per person via tour package from Dumaguete.

Walk towards the Tourist Information Center. Rent a boat to Apo Island. If you are alone or two of you, best to just join Apo Island tour packages from Dumaguete for PHP 1,000 (USD 20/SGD 27/MYR 85) each, includes transfer/ transportation, boat, snorkeling gears and lunch.
08:00 AM Apo Island Tour: Swimming and snorkeling with the pawikans (turtles).
11:00 AM Lunch
12:00 PM Continue Apo island tour.
02:00 PMBack to Malapatay Market.
02:15 PMPHP 50 (USD 0.99/SGD 1.34/MYR 4.23)Bus back to Dumaguete.
03:00 PMETA Dumaguete. Tricycle to hotel.
04:00 PMPHP 500 (USD 10/SGD 13/MYR 42)Freshen up. Rest at hotel.
06:00 PMPHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/ MYR0.85 )Multicab to Sibulan Airport.
08:00 PMFlight back to Manila.
TOTAL EXPENSESPHP 5,143 (USD 102/SGD 138/MYR 435)

 

*The PHP 5,143 (USD 102/SGD 138/MYR 435) estimated Dumaguete trip budget is supposing you are two people traveling together and will share the Manjuyod + Bais Tour boat (PHP 1,500 each) + Apo Island Tour (share cost with other tourist for PHP 500 each) and 2 days hotel stay for PHP 500 per person and you’ll stick to a budget of PHP 100-PHP 150 per meal.  Cost can still go lower if you’re able to find other tourists to share the cost of the Manjuyod + Bais Boat.

If you are on a limited budget, you can do Dumaguete City + Apo Island instead.  See sample Dumaguete 2 days 1 night itinerary below.

 
dumaguete 32\
 


DUMAGUETE DIY ITINERARY

(2 Days 1 Night stay)

DUMAGUETE + APO REEF

If you have limited time, you can actually explore Dumaguete for 2 days and include Apo Reef in your itinerary.  This sample Dumaguete Itinerary is good for a weekend stay.

 

 

 EXPENSESACTIVITIES
DAY 1 TWIN LAKES + VALENCIA TOUR + DUMAGUETE CITY TOUR
07:00 AM ETD Manila to Dumaguete
08:25 AM ETA Dumaguete
08:50 AMPHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/ MYR0.85 )Multi-cab from Dumaguete Airport to Dumaguete City
09:10 AMPHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/ MYR0.85 )ETA Dumaguete City. Tricycle to hotel.
09:20 AMPHP 500 (USD 10/SGD 13/MYR 42)Check-in at Hotel. Freshen up.
09:45 AMPHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/ MYR0.85 )Tricycle to jeep terminal.
10:00 AMPHP 15(USD 0.30/SGD 0.40/MYR 1.27)

 

Depart for Balinsasayao Twin Lakes.  Ride jeep to Amlan. Tell driver you are headed to Balinsasayao Lake and you need to alight at La-laan Junction.
10:15 AMPHP 400 (USD 8/SGD 11/MYR 34), good for two or PHP 200 (USD 4/SGD 5.36/MYR 17) per person.Get off at La-laan Junction. Hire motorcycle to Twin Lakes.
11:00 PMPHP 25 (USD 0.49/SGD 0.67/MYR 2)Pay Entrance Fee at Twin Lakes. Explore. Hike up Twin Lakes.
12:30 PMEnd of Twin Lakes Tour. Back to La-Laan Junction.
01:00 PMPHP 15(USD 0.30/SGD 0.40/MYR 1.27)

 

Jeep back to Dumaguete City.
01:15 PMPHP 150 (USD 3 /SGD 4/MYR 13)Late lunch
02:00 PMPHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/ MYR0.85 )Tricycle to jeep terminal.
01:15 PMPHP 24 (USD 0.47/SGD 0.64/MYR 5)Ride jeep to Valencia.
01:50 PMPHP 300 (USD 25/SGD 8/MYR 25.40)Alight at Valencia Terminal and hire a habal-habal (motorcycle) to Casarroro Falls + Pulang Bato Falls & Red Hot Spring.
PHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/ MYR0.85 )Casaroro Falls Entrance Fee
PHP 20 (USD 0.40/SGD 0.54/MYR 2)Pulang Bato falls Entrance Fee
PHP 20 (USD 0.40/SGD 0.54/MYR 2)Red Hot Spring entrance Fee
03:30 PMEnd of tour. Back to Valencia Terminal.
04:00 PMPHP 24 (USD 0.47/SGD 0.64/MYR 5)Ride jeep back to Dumaguete.
04:30 PMPHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/ MYR0.85 )Tricycle to Siliman University. Start exploring Dumaguete City:  Siliman University, Siliman University Anthropology Museum, Rizal Avenue, and Dumaguete Cathedral.
06:00 PMSunset watching.
07:00 PMPHP 150 (USD 3 /SGD 4/MYR 13)Dinner. Socials.
10:00 PMSleep.
DAY 2 APO ISLAND TOUR
06:00 AMPHP 100 (USD 8/SGD 3/MYR 8.47)Breakfast. Check-out, Leave luggage at hotel reception.
06:30 AMPHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/ MYR0.85 )Tricycle to bus terminal
07:15 AMPHP 50 (USD 0.99/SGD 1.34/MYR 4.23)Ride bus to Bayawan City (make sure it will pass by Zamboagita).  Tell the driver to drop you off at Malapatay Market in Zamboangita.  Alight at Malapatay Market.
07:30 AMPHP 2000 (USD 40/SGD 54/MYR 169), good for 4 persons. Share cost with other tourists for PHP 500 (USD 10/SGD 13.40/ MYR 42) each.  Or

PHP 1,000 (USD 20/SGD 27/MYR 85) per person via tour package from Dumaguete.

Walk towards the Tourist Information Center. Rent a boat to Apo Island. If you are alone or two of you, best to just join Apo Island tour packages from Dumaguete for PHP 1,000 (USD 20/SGD 27/MYR 85) each, includes transfer/ transportation, boat, snorkeling gears and lunch.
08:00 AM Apo Island Tour: Swimming and snorkeling with the pawikans (turtles).
11:00 AM Lunch
12:00 PM Continue Apo island tour.
02:00 PMBack to Malapatay Market.
02:15 PMPHP 50 (USD 0.99/SGD 1.34/MYR 4.23)Bus back to Dumaguete.
03:00 PMETA Dumaguete. Tricycle to hotel.
04:00 PMGet luggage at hotel.
06:00 PMPHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/ MYR0.85 )Multi-cab to Sibulan Airport.
08:00 PMFlight back to Manila.
TOTAL EXPENSESPHP 2,423 (USD 48/SGD 65/MYR 205)

 

*The PHP 2,423 (USD 48/SGD 65/MYR 205) estimated Dumaguete trip budget is supposing you are alone and you’re able to share the cost of island hopping boat with other tourists for PHP 500 per person. Also, this is assuming you’re able to book a hotel for PHP 500 per person for 1 day.  You can save PHP 500 if you check out on the second day before leaving for Apo Island and leave your luggage at the airport.

 

DUMAGUETE BUDGET


 
dumaguete 38

So how much will it cost to tour Dumaguete? Touring Dumaguete City is pretty cheap, you can even do a walking tour here.   But if you start exploring its neighboring towns and provinces, your wallet must be ready.  If you have limited time and budget, you can just pick one or two tours outside Dumaguete.  To give you an idea how much to spend for each tours, here’s a list of possible expenses for touring the surrounding towns of Dumaguete.

 

EXPENSESVALENCIA TOUR
PHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/ MYR0.85 )Tricycle to jeep terminal
PHP 24 (USD 0.47/SGD 0.64/MYR 5)Jeep to Valencia
PHP 200 (USD 17 /SGD 5.36/MYR 17)Hired habal-habal (motorcycle) to Casaroro Falls
PHP 100 (USD 8/SGD 3/MYR 8.47)Additional habal-habal fare to Pulang Bato Falls + Red Hot Spring
PHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/ MYR0.85 )Entrance Fee to Casaroro Falls.
PHP 20 (USD 0.40/SGD 0.54/MYR 2)Entrance Fee To Pulang Bato Falls
PHP 20 (USD 0.40/SGD 0.54/MYR 2)Entrance Fee to Red Hot Spring.
PHP 24 (USD 0.47/SGD 0.64/MYR 5)Jeep back to Dumaguete
PHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/ MYR0.85 )Tricycle back to hotel.
PHP 418 (USD 8.26/SGD 11/ MYR 35)TOTAL EXPENSES FOR VALENCIA TOUR

 

*Budget for Valencia DIY Tour if you are traveling alone.

 

EXPENSESBALINSASAYAO TWIN LAKES TOUR
PHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/ MYR0.85 )Tricycle to Jeep terminal.
PHP 15(USD 0.30/SGD 0.40/MYR 1.27)Jeep to Amlan (get off at La-laan Junction in San Luis)
PHP 400 (USD 8/SGD 11/MYR 34)RT chartered motorcycle to Twin Lakes
PHP 25 (USD 0.49/SGD 0.67/MYR 2)Entrance fee to Twin Lakes
PHP 15 (USD 0.30/SGD 0.40/MYR 1.27)Jeep back to Dumaguete
PHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/ MYR0.85 )Tricycle back to hotel.
PHP 475 (USD 9/SGD 13/MYR 40)Total Expenses for  Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Tour

 

*This is supposing you are alone traveling to Balinsasayao Twin Lakes and you are hiking to the lakes (instead of taking the paddle boat for PHP 350).

 

 

EXPENSESAPO ISLAND TOUR
PHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/ MYR0.85 )Tricycle to Ceres Bus terminal
PHP 50 (USD 0.99/SGD 1.34/MYR 4.23)Bus to Bayawan via Zamboagita (alight at Malapatay Market)
PHP 2000 (USD 40/SGD 54/MYR 169), good for 4 persons. Share cost with other tourists for PHP 500 (USD 10/SGD 13.40/ MYR 42) each.  Or

PHP 1,000 (USD 20/SGD 27/MYR 85) per person via tour package from Dumaguete.

Chartered small boat to Apo Island, good for 4 persons.
PHP 50 (USD 0.99/SGD 1.34/MYR 4.23)Bus back to Dumaguete
PHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/ MYR0.85 )Tricycle back to hotel.
PHP 620 (USD 12.25/SGD 17/MYR 53)TOTAL EXPENSES FOR APO ISLAND DIY TOUR

 

*This is supposing you are alone and you are able to share the cost of the boat with other tourists. I recommend this DIY Tour on weekends or holidays when more tourists visit Apo Island because there is a good chance you’ll be able to share cost of the chartered boat. Otherwise, best to just book a tour package to Apo Island via travel agencies in Dumaguete.  Should cost around PHP 1,000 (USD 20/SGD 27/ MYR 85) to PHP 1,500 (USD 30/SGD 40/ MYR 127) per person.

 

 

EXPENSESMANJUYOD + BAIS TOUR
PHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/ MYR0.85 )Tricycle to Ceres Bus terminal
PHP 50 (USD 0.99/SGD 1.34/MYR 4.23)Bus to Bais.
PHP 200 (USD 17 /SGD 5.36/MYR 17) or PHP 100 personTricycle or habal-habal (motorcycle) to Capinahan Wharf.
PHP 3,500 (USD 69/SGD 94/MYR 296). PHP 350 (USD 7/SGD 9.38/MYR 4.23) each if 10 people will share the coast.  PHP 1,750 (USD 35/SGD 47/MYR 148) per person if 2 pax.

 

Chartered Boat for Bais Tour: Manjuyod Sandbar + Bais Dolphin Watching + Talabong Mangrove Tour.
PHP 200 (USD 17 /SGD 5.36/MYR 17), or PHP 100 personTricycle/ motorcycle back to Bais Bus Terminal.
PHP 50 (USD 0.99/SGD 1.34/MYR 4.23)Bus back to Dumaguete.
PHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/ MYR0.85 )Tricycle back to Hotel.
PHP 1,750 (USD 35/SGD 47/MYR 148)Total Expenses for Bais Tour + Manjuyod Sandbar

 

*This is supposing you are two people traveling sharing the cost of a PHP 3,500 boat.

 

 


DUMAGUETE TRAVEL TIPS


 
dumaguete 62

*You can save a lot if you are traveling in a group so you can share the cost of hiring a boat for Manjuyod Sandbar + Bais Dolphin Watching.

*If you are alone, or there’s just two of you and you want to visit Apo Island, it is cheaper to join tours to Apo Island via travel agencies in Dumaguete City for PHP 1,000 (USD 20/SGD 27/MYR 85) per person to PHP 1,500 (USD 30/SGD 40/ MYR 127) per person.  Apo Island tour packages usually include transfer/ transportation, boat, snorkeling gears and lunch.

*To save a few bucks especially if you are traveling solo to Dumaguete, you can go outside the airport and hail a multi-cab to downtown Dumaguete.  Fare is PHP 10 (USD 0.20/SGD 0.27/ MYR0.85).

*Always negotiate and agree with the price before riding a chartered tricycle to and from the airport and even habal-habal (motorcycles) to certain destinations.

*Don’t go home without trying the famous sansrival and silvanas of Dumaguete, you can even take them home.  You can purchase at Sansrival Bistro or Sansrival Cakes and Pastries. Another must-try is the budbud kabog, a local delicacy, sold at Painitan at Dumaguete Public Market.

*Please do not litter on the islands, bring your trash with you and dispose them properly.

*Wear aqua shoes when swimming or snorkeling to avoid any untoward incidents. Do not step on the corals please.

* Bring extra clothes if you plan to swim at Red Rock Hot Spring and Pulang Bato, avoid wearing light or pastel colored shirt as the water can stain your clothes.

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