Miles of spectacular white sandy beaches and dozens of vantage points offering breathtaking views of the ocean make Siquijor one of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines. Still, the spooky stories of sorcerers and witches living in this green paradise keep superstitious tourists from setting foot on the island.

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Discovered in 1565, by Miguel Lopez de Legaspi, during a Spanish expedition, Siquijor was named Isla de Fuego (The Island of Fire), because of its eerie glow, created by the thousands of fireflies that inhabited the molave trees on the island. Throughout history, the island was a Spanish colony and a part of Negros Oriental, until 1971, when it gained the status of independent province. During the rule of the Spaniards, many Catholic parishes were built on Siquijor, but natives continued to practice the ancient rituals that are still around today.

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The mystical character of Siquijor is both a blessing and a curse for the travel industry of the island province. There are those who travel thousands of miles, intrigued by stories that speak of mysterious shamans and sorcerers living in the jungles of Siquijor. Called mangkukulams, by the locals, they are supposedly able to cast powerful spells, lay curses and summon all kinds of creatures and spirits. For a fee, they’ll sell you talismans and amulets that ward of evil spirits, or cure any sickness you may have.

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But too little is known about the mangkukulams of Siquijor and, as we all know, most people fear what they don’t understand. So you can’t really blame them for being afraid of black magic and paranormal phenomena that they believe take place on the island. The legend according to which Siquijor simply rose from the sea, amid lightning and thunder, sustained by fossils of sea-creatures found deep inland, add to the eeriness of this place.

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Those brave enough to conquer their fears and travel to the island of Siquijor will discover a true natural paradise, with more than just a few tourist attractions, waiting to be discovered. The 72 kilometers of white sand beaches that cover the entire coastline of the island are filled with both affordable and luxurious accommodations, fit for adventurers and families alike.

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Of the many sightseeing attractions of Siquijor, there are some that will simply take your breath away. For example, the Church of St. Francis de Assisi is a unique structure, built almost entirely out of corals, dating back to 1870. Strategically positioned near Siquijor Pear, the coral church gives tourists their blessing, upon arrival. Cambugahay Waterfalls is another must-see attraction of Siquijor. A multi-tiered waterfall, flowing calmly into a turquoise lake, fit for bathing, Cambugahay is considered a charmed, magical place, by the natives. There are countless of other wonderful places to explore on the Island of Fire, including a unique butterfly sanctuary, six mysterious caves and many spectacular diving sites.

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If you’re looking for an out of the ordinary vacation, in a world shrouded in mystery, offering amazing sights and attractions, look no further that Siquijor, the Island of Fire.

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