Hidden Tourist Inn — Hotel in Mambajao

Is it perfect? No, but it is really very good in many different ways and is a fantastic value for money.

First off, the hosts are very friendly and accommodating. They are islanders, born and bred, an thus can answer all your "who/what/where/why/how" questions. They go out of their way to make the place as comfortable as possible. You can overlook a lot of minor annoyances when the hosts are this dedicated.

This is a converted family compound with 4 rental casitas (another one is underway). The grounds and decorations are absolutely charming -- a very lush and private tropical setting (see photos). The central part is all an indoor/outdoor kitchen and dining area, decorated with an eclectic mix of art and family photos and keepsakes. The kitchen is huge and quite well equipped for cooking and there is plenty of space for dining. the hosts will even arrange to cook for you, and while we did not take advantage of this service, the dishes prepared for others looked great. Note that rooms advertised as having kitchens do indeed have a kitchen, but without gas for cooking -- apparently removed for safety reasons. The shared kitchen is just fine however, but it would be nice if they work out a private kitchen arrangement in the future.

Each casita is slightly different but they all retain the traditional Filipino bamboo design. Some have private patios with tables and chairs (great spots for happy hour). The water supply is a little unreliable, but they are working on it, and there is no hot water although the (stream) water is not cold. Note that rooms do not include A/C by default so make sure you book that option separately if you want A/C.

Housekeeping is efficient -- everything is clean and tidy both inside and out.

The location is slightly out of the way, but that is a relative term on an island as small as Camiguin. It's only a 10 minute ride to town where there is a public market, a small supermarket/department store and a few blocks of assorted shops and services. Renting a scooter is the best way to experience the island -- there are tons of places and roads to explore, all in a calm, low speed atmosphere. People don't drive like idiots here and there is very little traffic.

Bottom line: it's a great place and I...

A Home Away from Home: A Homestay Experience at Hidden Tourist Inn, Camiguin Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Exceptional – A Sanctuary for the Soul)

As a traveler seeking a genuine shift, my journey led me to the gentle embrace of Camiguin, and at its heart, I discovered Hidden Tourist Inn in Mambajao.

This isn't your typical accommodation; it's a true homestay, a cherished family home lovingly transformed into a peaceful retreat.

Many travelers might not grasp the full nuance of a homestay, but here, it became vividly clear: it's about finding a "home while on vacation." Hosts Rodrigo and Bon, with their palpable passion and genuine concern, offered an experience far beyond expectation. They embody the essence of local hospitality, inviting guests into the island's rhythm.

Our private, traditional nipa-style cottage, nestled within lush gardens, quickly became my sanctuary.

The accessible shared kitchen and inviting outdoor spaces naturally fostered a sense of community, allowing for easy interaction and a deeper understanding of Camiguin's authentic island vibe and its warm people.

In this serene beauty, surrounded by Camiguin's vibrant essence and the genuine welcome of Rodrigo and Bon, I found precious gifts.

A quiet comfort settled within me, allowing cherished memories to surface with warmth. The sweet return of laughter to my days was a profound reminder of joy, a testament to the restorative power of a place that truly takes you in. New connections formed, adding another layer to this enriching experience.

This journey revealed an immeasurable gain: a rediscovered resilience, a deepened appreciation for connection, and the understanding that true warmth and welcome can transform a trip.

Hidden Tourist Inn is more than just a place to stay; it's a testament to the healing power of a genuine home away from home, where hosts become friends and a vacation becomes a profound personal experience. I cannot recommend it...

Rodrigo and his nephew Bon are wonderful hosts—welcoming, helpful, and attentive. Their place is truly a hidden gem and offers incredible value for money. They assisted us with airport transfers and provided a motorbike rental with good-quality helmets at reasonable rates. Our simple bamboo-style room was spacious, with a decent-sized cold-water shower room that included a large washing tub, allowing us to do our own hand-wash laundry. They also provided good-quality soap. All shared spaces—including the kitchen, walkways, and garden—were kept tidy and clean. Optional air conditioning was available for an additional charge, but we didn’t need it during our early March stay, as temperatures never exceeded 28°C. Instead, we had a good oscillating fan that kept us comfortable. Drinking water and instant coffee were also available. The spacious shared kitchen was well-equipped with a fridge freezer (where we could make ice), a gas hob, utensils, a kettle, and other essentials. The garden was lovely and thoughtfully designed to provide privacy between guest rooms, each with its own small patio area featuring comfortable seating under a rain cover. The location is less than a 20-minute trike ride from the airport and many amenities, including restaurants and shops. There are also a couple of excellent Pinoy restaurants within a five-minute drive, so renting a motorbike is highly recommended for getting around. Rodrigo and Bon are continually working to enhance the guest experience. They have plans to add window mosquito screens, more washing lines for laundry, a clothing rail, side tables, and possibly ambient reading lights. A hot-water shower would be a welcome future addition for guests who prefer it—we would have happily paid a little more for this added comfort. The WiFi is a little patchy, so this is best suited for those looking for a peaceful, remote break in nature. All in all, this is a lush backpackers’...