Things to see and do Visayas

This site is full of useful information (particularly on ferry schedules and updated aircraft); he is in English.

This is a tourist office worthy of the name! The staff is extremely welcoming, available and will provide you with a lot of information about the city of Dumaguete, Negros Oriental and even the island of Siquijor. If you have questions about what to do, what to see, how to organize an expedition... they will tell you everything and in a good mood. On their Facebook page they publish the cultural events of the city. Don't hesitate to come and visit them when you are there.

Through photographs, sketches and handicrafts, the museum recounts the life of the first tribes that inhabited the islands of the archipelago and that of the remaining tribes. The life of the Atas, in the forest of Negros, or Des, in the mountain of Palawan, is amply detailed as well as their daily organisation, tools and musical instruments. A room is reserved for archaeology; another is devoted to the use of medicinal herbs and plants, revealing the beliefs of Filipinos. See absolutely.

Miagao is a small town 40 kilometers southwest of Iloilo, particularly famous for its late ^18th-century Baroque church, also known as the Church of Santo Tomas de Villanueva. This church was built as a fortress in 1786, and its superb façade combines Catholic and indigenous (Chinese and Filipino) motifs. It was declared a national landmark in 1973, and finally included on the Unesco World Heritage list. It is one of the region's most visited attractions.

A ten-minute walk from the D'Mall on the island's east coast, Bulabog Beach is a favorite with windsurfers and kitesurfers, especially between October and May when the winds are strong, and of course with anyone who enjoys watching them. Less flashy than White Beach, the beach itself is not breathtakingly beautiful, especially at high tide, and can even be dirty at times. It's not suitable for swimming. On the other hand, the atmosphere is much more relaxed, youthful and sporty, especially in season.

This mansion, built in 1850 and once owned by the Gorordo family, bears witness to the way of life of wealthy families in the ^19th century during the Spanish era. There are few reminders of Cebu's past, as there has been a lot of destruction, so it's great to be able to wander through the period furniture, paintings and porcelain. You can enjoy a cool cup of coffee in the courtyard and stock up on souvenirs in the museum store. A very interesting and interactive visit to better grasp the evolutions through the ages.

Superb, next to Magellan's Cross, in the town center. The present structure was built in 1602 after being ravaged by fire. The original structure (1565) was made of wood. The basilica houses the Santo Niño relic, the oldest Christian treasure in the Philippines, given by Magellan in 1521 to Queen Juana. Filipinos queue up to pay homage to this statue (it's a mad rush on Sundays and during the Sinulog festival).

Built in the ^{mid-nineteenth} century, the church of San Augustine boasts the highest bell tower in eastern Negros. It must be admitted that it shines more by its history than by its beauty. Nevertheless, it has a beautiful altar covered with gold leaf and a very rare organ (the only similar one is in Bohol), which originated in Zaragoza, Spain and was completed in 1894. The locals are proud of their church because, together with its cemetery and convent, it is well preserved and is one of the important colonial era churches in the country.

The country's oldest fort is also its smallest, with walls no more than 6 m high and 2.50 m thick. Close to the port, it was built in 1565 by Miguel López de Legazpi in response to Moro attacks and indigenous revolts. It was converted into a college under American rule, at a time when Cebuanos were receiving a classical education. During the Second World War, it was used as a fortification by Japanese soldiers. The fort has preserved its ^16th-century cannons intact. Ideal for a moment of relaxation during a visit to the center.

It is more interesting than the San Sebastian Cathedral, which was built in 1876 and is one of the major tourist sites in Bacolod. From the outside, the chapel of the Sang Virgen barangay looks almost like all the other houses of the Santa Clara housing estate, but this modern facade houses an imposing mosaic of 2.50 meters by 6 meters, composed of nearly one hundred thousand shells with colorful tones. Very nice showcase of the local craftsmanship of the shell.

This 40 m-high waterfall is impressive, and the swim is invigorating. To get there, you'll have to climb three hundred and fifty steps (beware of slippery rocks, lush jungle and lack of signage)! Casaroro is the name of the first inhabitant of Valencia to discover these falls.

You can continue on to the Calamason waterfall, which means "to climb". Until recently, it could only be reached by climbing lianas and steep rocks. It's a popular spot for picnics. A simply sublime place!

Internet cafes throughout the city charge around 20 to 30 P per hour.

In the municipality of Maribojoc, 14 kilometers from the capital, stands the Punta Cruz watchtower, overlooking the seas of Cebu, Siquijor and Mindanao. Its construction was completed in 1796. During the Spanish colonial era, it was used to monitor the seas and warn of pirates. Legend has it that whenever Moro pirates try to approach, a powerful light emanates from the cross beside the tower to dazzle them.

This is one of the favourite outs of waray youth. You have to go there before dark to admire the sunset. Panoramic view of Cebu city centre, Mactan and Bohol. The freshness of the night, from the top of the hill of Busay, is valuable.

It would be a shame to miss the Cebu's Casino Filipino at the top of Nivel Hills, adjacent to the Cebu Plaza. Roulette rotates and pesos go to dawn (open from 16 am to 4 pm).

A passport must be provided to return. The 2 and 5 P coins are accepted by slot machines (flip are forbidden).

One of the best views of the city! Situated at the top of Busay Hill, Tops is an excellent vantage point overlooking Cebu city, the bay and the islands of Mactan and Olango. In the early morning mist, during the day or for the evening lights, the superb panorama is well worth the trip. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. For your information, since the end of 2022 and until around the end of 2023, the site has been closed to the public for renovation, so check before you go to make sure it's reopened.

This imposing temple bears witness to the presence of a sizeable Chinese community on the island since the ^16th century. In the past, these merchants intermarried with the Spanish elite, and despite the vicissitudes of history, many of their descendants are still established on the island. Located in the Beverly Hills district - so named because it is home to the city's wealthiest residents - the temple is reached by taking a Jeepney signposted "Lahu Lahu". It is one of Cebu's most visited non-Catholic religious buildings.

Within the hotel complex, it is possible to go up the river with seven waterfalls, punctuated with fresh water pools, but it is no longer allowed to swim there. To the great displeasure of the inhabitants who try to keep a clean place, the edges of the pools are regularly decorated with potato chip wrappers and Coke cans. Several pools, both hot and cold water, are grouped together at the bottom of the rivers. Rafting and canoeing were once available. Not really a must-do activity.

This museum, named in honor of the national hero, houses recent works by Cebuanos painters (around 100), sculptures, antiques and some archaeological remains. Concerts and plays are held in the main hall. On the first floor, the recently refurbished Rizal Library houses over 14,000 volumes of books and journals, interesting works for learning more about Cebuanos history and culture.

The area also offers beautiful views of the Chocolate Hills, rice paddies and, in fine weather, the sea. The road leading to it from Carmen is very beautiful (public transport links the area). You have to fixate on the view to forget the atrocious constructions that include restaurants and a discotheque here. On weekends, it can get very crowded as Filipinos flock here for picnics. However, the area has not yet fully recovered from typhoon Odette at the end of 2021, and the damage is still visible.

This active volcano has two craters and three hectares of ridge. It is the highest mountain of Negros Island, with a peak of 2,465 meters. Its national park is home to various species of birds and a varied flora, including the fruit dove of Negros, a kind of endemic pigeon. Given the risks of eruption, one cannot decide on a whim to make the ascent. It is necessary to organize its journey. The camp Guintubdan is the starting point for the trek. From the summit, the view on the province of Bacolod is superb. If the weather is good, we can see the whole island of Negros, the islands of Panay, Siquijor and Cebu. The big lake between the two mountains is almost supernatural. The ascent can start from Carlota. From Mambucal, it is best to start the adventure by Jeepney. The volcano is a favorite site for mountaineering enthusiasts, especially since the park has adopted the universal trail marking system, making the place more attractive.

Practicalities. To obtain the permit to enter the volcano (500 PHP), you have to inquire at the tourist office of Bacolod. Attention: a limited number of hikers are allowed to make the ascent each year (from March to May or from October to December). The guides who accompany you for two nights and three days share their knowledge and the camping is very well organized. You can find a guide through the tourist office (about 700 PHP/day) or a global package through a local agency (about 6 000 PHP).

The Apo Island marine sanctuary has been closed since Typhoon Pablo ravaged the island and its seabed in 2012, to allow the corals to regenerate - they grow by just 1 cm in 20 months. Rest assured, this won't stop you from diving elsewhere around the island and taking in the sights. From the main beach, just a few meters away, you'll find yourself face to face with giant turtles and coral of impressive beauty and variety.

Alert, secret beach! This magnificent beach is not yet occupied by any hotel. The water is incredibly beautiful (it is more pleasant at high tide) and the sand is remarkably soft. Do as the locals do and spread wet sand on their bodies(sand massage), it is very pleasant. Few tourists know this place. At sunset it is also a treat for the eyes. To get there, go to the Minalulan baranguay and after the basketball court, go to the end of the road, there is a sari-sari, you can access the beach from there.

This underground river has been open to the public since 2018. With a life jacket, headlamp, and a guide, one descends along a steeply sloping staircase before reaching the entrance of the cave in which one can easily stay for an hour swimming, observing the bats and the different rock formations. It's fun if you like being underground. Be careful, the road leading to it is quite steep, so drive carefully if you are on a scooter.

This 400 year old Balete (a kind of fig tree) is the oldest tree in Siquijor. Besides being sumptuous with its huge roots intertwining with its drooping vines and branches, this tree is surrounded by a multitude of legends. At its feet, an artificial basin is filled by a mysterious water source. If you need a pedicure, dip your feet in it, small fish will eat your feet (well, the dead skin). It's a fun (or unpleasant, you be the judge) experience. People laugh and the tree sits majestically.

Kalanggaman Island lies off the coast of the town of Palompon, which can be reached in 1? hours by van from Ormoc (150 PHP). There are boats waiting to take you there. It's one of the most beautiful islands in the archipelago, best known for its narrow, powdery white sandbank that stretches for 800 metres through turquoise water. What a pleasure to stroll along this thin strip, with the impression of walking in the middle of the sea! It's possible to swim, snorkel and even picnic and camp on the island for an even more immersive experience.

Before moving on from Pacijan Island to Poro Island, why not stop for a moment in the bustling city of San Francisco. Tourists here can be counted on the fingers of one hand, so it's pleasant to observe, chat and take your time. Along the pier, a huge hall houses the daily market: fruit, vegetables, spices, fish and meat, you name it. It's worth dropping in at lunchtime, when several street-food stalls surround the market.

At 680 hectares, Lake Danao (not to be confused with Lake Ormoc) is the largest lake in the Visayas. You can't swim here, but you can rent a kayak. The other main activity is a zip-line over the lake to one of its islets. There are two restaurants serving Filipino cuisine. To be honest, the complex is a bit derelict (the resort is abandoned, which is amazing to see), so you're unlikely to spend more than an hour there. However, it's well worth the detour to admire the view and chat with the locals.

Tulang Diot Island is probably one of the most peaceful islands in the Philippines, whether you're looking for a dream spot, a paradise island or simply something off the beaten track (or off the travel guides and blogs). From the road just north of San Francisco (Pacijan), the silhouette of Tulang Diot beckons: what is this islet, offshore, surrounded by turquoise water? Rest assured, the island can be reached by banca in just five minutes. The seabed is home to many small, colorful fish and even a few turtles. For swimming, snorkeling or sunbathing, the island's wide, circular beach of powdery sand awaits you. On the beach, you'll find a hut that doubles as a bar and a sari-sari, where you can enjoy a refreshing drink and some local fare. Strolling through the narrow streets of this small village is a pure delight, as the locals are more than delighted to see travellers. There's no water or electricity here, and even fewer vehicles. Life has remained simple and calm, with roosters crowing and laundry drying on the patios. It's possible to sleep in tents (or without) on the beach if you wish (remember to bring your own equipment), or to spend just a few hours there in the afternoon. It's even possible that some of the locals, after making friends and exchanging a drink or two, will invite you to spend the night with them. An end-of-the-world feeling guaranteed. You leave Tulang Diot filled with a gentle serenity.

This is one of the Camotes Islands' best-known beaches. With its white sand and crystal-clear, temperate waters, set between rocks and overlooked by the Santiago Bay Resort on the right, it ticks all the postcard beach boxes. Picnic tables are set up, and a few restaurants are on the right. Swimming and snorkeling are possible, but check the tides. At low tide, the view is superb, but swimming is difficult. The sunset is magnificent.

It's an abandoned resort maintained by the locals. Camotians love to swim and picnic here. The main attraction is Buho Rock, a large coral rock shaped like a ship moored to the cliff. Access is via a staircase. Small bridges and huts have been built. It's possible to swim in the sea at the heart of the cliffs. When the tide is high, you can try your hand at cliff jumping from the diving boards, or just watch the cliff jumpers. Thrills guaranteed.

Bakhaw is divided into two beaches: the one on the left is a beautiful white sandy beach and the one on the right is, at certain times of the year, a rocky beach, as for a few months the sand retreats into the sea before returning to the beach and covering the rocks. On site, a sari-sari to buy a drink or a snack and a few locals working or napping depending on the time of day. The water is crystal-clear, warm and the view is sublime. Be sure to come in the evening for the sunset, which is a magnificent sight every day.

Just 2 hours by banca from Malapascua, Kalangaman is a paradise. Its low-tide sandbanks, white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters make it an idyllic spot. There's not much on the island apart from coconut palms as a backdrop. You can rent a kayak or go snorkeling to see the coral reefs offshore. At midday, it's barbecue time under the shade of the coconut palms, with the crew of your banca in charge of grilling the fresh fish. An ideal excursion for those who don't dive, for example.

At 5 minutes of the city, this gigantic park of 170 hectares represents the base of more a vast project of reafforestation of the mangrove swamp started as of the end of 1980. It is a pleasant getaway to observe the birds and all the creatures of the marai. 

The Iloilo Museum, not very large, is one of Panay's main museums. We could also mention ILOMOCA, the museum of contemporary art. It's a quick but interesting visit for those wishing to learn more about Iloilo, its history and cultural heritage. On display are indigenous ceramics, jewelry and objects from trade with the Chinese. There's also a fine collection on the Ati, and interesting objects salvaged here and there from former Spanish galleons, as well as works by contemporary local artists.

Located 40 kilometers north of Iloilo, this beautiful park of no less than 854 hectares is home to many endangered species: monkeys, pythons, tarantulas, scorpions and other bats; but above all, magnificent orchids and a primary forest. It's a great place for a sporty stroll through caves and wild waterfalls. You'll need to hire a guide if you want to wander freely around the park, which will be more interesting anyway.

This natural park is a center for the protection of diversity, which aims to preserve the endemic animal species of Negros, most of which are endangered, and to educate and raise awareness of these issues. The sanctuary is home to dozens of species, including fallow deer, wild cats, birds of prey and many other birds. The sanctuary is run by volunteers and is a must-see for those interested in the evils of over-industrialization and animals in general. They are very educational.

Behind the Tourist Office, the beach of Talisay is ideal for swimming with its clear waters.

The Mactan Sanctuary is located where the Battle of Mactan took place in 1521. This park and its statue commemorate the Lapu-Lapu chief's victory over the Spanish explorer Magellan and his men on April 27, 1521. It was during this battle that Magellan was mortally wounded. It is the site of one of the key events in Philippine history, as Magellan retreated for the first time. Even today, Lapu-Lapu is regarded by Filipinos as their first hero, as he was the first leader to resist the Spanish invaders.

The beautiful Kawasan River and its various waterfalls flow into Matutinao, 15 kilometers before Moalboal when coming from Cebu. These three waterfalls are renowned for their impressive beauty and are ideal for canyoning. You can swim there, but beware: at weekends, the place is overrun by Filipino and international tourists. A sporting and photogenic break. In June 2023, the site was still temporarily closed for rehabilitation following the passage of typhoon Odette in December 2021.

Located in the municipality of Palo, ten kilometers south of Tacloban, this memorial commemorates General MacArthur's landing on Leyte, the first island to be liberated from Japanese occupation, on October 20, 1944. This historic event was the largest naval battle in the world. A famous photograph served as the model for this enormous statuary, depicting American soldiers landing on the beach, knee-deep in water.

It is one of the major tourist sites in Bacolod City. Known as the former sugar capital of the Philippines during the colonial era, Bacolod had developed its entire industry around this commodity. TheRuins is one of the important witnesses of this era. It is the ruins of what was once the mansion of a wealthy sugar industrialist. It was burned down by the Japanese during the Second World War. Today the ruins of this huge mansion remain quite intriguing and beautiful especially at nightfall.

It's one of the eight caves in Camotes and one of the most easily accessible, as well as being one of the prettiest. There are only a few steps down, and no need for a guide. A beautiful skylight illuminates the cave, giving the water an almost unreal color. Bathing in the midst of these stalagmites and stalactites is a real experience. Legend has it that the grotto contains a treasure - we'll leave you to find out. What is certain is that, during the Second World War, the cave's inhabitants used it to hide from the Japanese.

This beach, nestled in a small cove, can be seen from the island's viewpoint. The turtles lay their eggs there by hundreds, digging a big hole in the sand where they deposit them, and that in total freedom. Here no association or sanctuary of protection, no night visit with tourists, they are totally free. The incubation period is two months, and during the birth season, only the strongest and most resistant babies will reach the sea and one in a thousand will become an adult turtle.

The trailhead is marked with a sign. The round trip takes 45 minutes. You can go by yourself but we recommend to go with a guide (the same as for snorkeling, remember to give a tip, 150-200 PHP at the end). It allows you to ask questions about the island, and to be accompanied because it is quite steep in some places. On the way there are several breathtaking viewpoints, up to the top and the tip of the island where the view of Negros Oriental, the beach and the sea is breathtaking. Remember to take water.

20 km from Tagbilaran, the Camugao waterfalls are among the most beautiful in Bohol. Access is via a road that winds through jungle, forest and rice paddies. Guides are available on site, but this is neither compulsory nor necessary. After a 15-minute walk up a steep, slippery slope, you're presented with a spectacle of pure beauty as only nature can produce: a magisterial waterfall cascades from a huge, curving cliff, amidst wild, lush vegetation. Swimming, jumping and taking photos!

Between 1871 and 2004, this building housed one of the main prisons in the Visayas. Today, it is the Cebu Provincial Museum. Through different galleries, it presents the rich history and culture of the province of Cebu from pre-colonial times to the present. In addition to being culturally interesting, the place is a true haven of peace in the city. A stopover that should please art and history lovers or simply those who wish to learn more about their vacation spot.

The sea trip to visit the dolphins in the wild is exciting. The expedition lasts one day and often combines the boat ride with a stop at the Manjuyod sandbar, the "Maldives of the Philippines". You will be accompanied by a guide who will explain the fascinating life of these creatures and you will enjoy a hearty lunch of grilled meats served on board, while admiring the beautiful beach. The best time to visit is from March to October, in the early morning, because the waters are calmer.

Nearby Cambugahay Falls are perhaps even more beautiful and much less touristy. Because of its limestone content, the water is a breathtaking cyan blue. There is a liana to make jumps and a small cave to swim in. If you go there early in the morning, you will not meet anyone. Unlike other government-run tourist sites, Kawasan is run by the villagers, so prices are often random. Usually a guide is mandatory to go down (he will watch your stuff).

Six kilometers from Tagbilaran, this is a completely different side of the island, far from the tourist crowds. This small coastal town was founded in 1595 by two Spanish Jesuit priests. These same priests built the famous Baclayon church, the oldest church on the island. In addition to the church, Baclayon boasts a typical market and has preserved a number of ancestral homes combining colonial and Filipino styles, with wooden facades that add real charm to the place. So it's a Bohol of local colors that we discover.

Located in an old agricultural building, this pleasant museum displays old objects that recall the epic of the sugarcane industry in the ^19th century in the Bacolod region. It also displays an international collection of dolls. You can stop here for a cup of coffee. The museum was originally designed for children, but it will also be of interest to anyone who wants to learn more about the history and culture of Negros. Many activities are organized for children, as well as guided tours. A pleasant cultural stop.