Tourist Attractions & Monuments Philippines

On more than 10 hectares, this superb park owes the passion of its two creators: Patricia and Nicolas (we will also admire the superb collection of art in the park). Today, open to the public at a low price, it is a pleasure to walk along the further of this huge botanical garden where some animals live in freedom, and where life seems to have regained all its rights. So you say we are under the charm, because of the quiet side (it is no coincidence that Prana gives his yoga lessons in the park…) than because of the beauty of this realization. One day, rooms should be a day to add a little magic to your stay in the Philippines. We love.

The handy all-in-one address! For up-to-date information on accommodation and transportation. To book a whole range of excursions: island tours, kayaking, hiking or fishing. For a nice souvenir store, welcome to the Art Café. Because they also serve as a currency exchange office. And the restaurant serves vegetarian dishes. All in all, it's the place to go to plan your stay if you haven't planned ahead.

These amphitheatrical rice paddies stretch as far as the eye can see, offering an imposing spectacle in all seasons, whether mist-covered or bathed in sunshine. Walking through them is a real pleasure (provided you're not afraid of heights). Accompanied by an ifugao guide, you climb up and down the low walls that separate the plots. You're likely to come across locals with their arms full of victuals and schoolchildren striding off to school. It's a unique experience, but one that requires a good level of fitness.

A genius invention? The rice fields of Batad are, along with those of Banaue, on UNESCO's World Heritage List. Reflecting the genius of the first inhabitants, they flow over the mountain like silky green drapes. It is said that if they were laid end to end, they would encircle half the globe. In fact, their total length is 20,000 km! Thanks to the audacity of the first Ifugaos, the mountains were shaped, with a system of stone or earthen walls rising up to 23 m. The terraces were built as long ago as the Middle Ages. The terraces were built 2,000 years ago, when members of these tribes set about carving and sculpting them using rudimentary tools. Built and created by free men over whom no authority exercised power and without recourse to slavery, these terraces are viable thanks to a perfect irrigation system. Mountain springs and streams are channeled into gullies. The canals criss-cross the rice paddies down to the base of the mountain. Bamboo trees pierced with a few holes spread the water across the plantations, preventing it from evaporating. The knowledge of nature and the technical skills of the first Ifugaos intrigued and impressed many. However, the existence of terraces remained unknown during Spanish colonization. José Rizal, for example, was unaware of this success.

Ifugaos farmers have been growing rice for generations, and it's their job to keep these terraces intact. The work is physically demanding. They remain bent over from dawn to dusk, after having traveled many kilometers. Planting takes place in February; harvesting in July. From July to September, the terraces are cleaned; in December, the soil is prepared for planting. It's hard to remain indifferent to such a human endeavor, which testifies to the rich knowledge of the Ifugaos, who have known how to take advantage of nature while preserving it.

The Chocolate Hills are one of the Philippines' most popular tourist attractions. In fact, there are 1,268 hills, ranging in height from 60 to 120 m, whose vegetation suffers from the dry months of December to April, giving a chocolate hue to these geological curiosities, hence their name. In reality, the dry season is not quite dry, and rains are not uncommon in Bohol between December and April (sorry to break it to you). Legend has it that these hills are the tears that fell from the eyes of a giant. And it's true that there's something mythological about these domes - you can imagine Hobbits living there...

Getting there. Follow the road towards Carmen. The journey through winding roads, rice paddies and forests is very picturesque. The 2 km passage through the Bilar Man-Made Forest is particularly beautiful. This is a forest of mahogany trees planted by the locals as part of a reforestation project over 50 years ago, the lanky trees reaching dizzying heights. Once you arrive, you have to park in the parking lot on the main road and pay the parking and environmental fees. Shuttles then take visitors to the viewpoint, 5 minutes away. You have to climb 214 steps to reach the 360-degree panoramic viewpoint and embrace these hundreds of small hills. The view is far more impressive in fine weather, of course. It's a quick tour. Combine your visit with that of the tarsiers and the Loboc River.

Located at about 20 kilometers from Banaue, Hungduan is a small village of 1,000 inhabitants renowned for its rice fields. Their visit, accompanied by a local guide, can be easily organized through your Banaue guesthouse. The place is simply sublime. Accompanied by a guide who will provide you with a lot of information, we cross the rice fields by walking on the low stone walls that separate the plots. These rice fields are also about 2,000 years old and are part of the Unesco site. It is a magical experience. They spread out in a staircase on both sides of the river, in the hollow of the mountains. The best time to visit is from January to May. July and August is the rainy season, but if you go in August you can attend the Punnuk festival (no specific day because it marks the end of the rainy season). It takes place in the rice fields and in the rivers, the three villages of the valley including Hapao compete in games and parade in traditional costumes.

It takes about 2 hours to walk in the rice fields with the explanations of your guide on the process of planting and harvesting rice. The rice fields of Hapao unlike those of Banaue are still used by the different owners and therefore maintained, which makes them particularly beautiful. Be careful if you are afraid of heights, there are some paths that are not as high and narrow as others, but tell your guide in advance because it might not be very pleasant for you.

These rice fields, considered the ^8th wonder of the world and classified by Unesco, are 2,000 years old. They are the oldest rice fields in the world. The Viewpoint offers the best panorama on these terraces which rise like steps to the sky. Ifugaos are there in traditional costume and take pictures of tourists for a fee (give 30 PHP if you don't mind this "good exchange"). Go down a few steps and advance to the end of the first rice fields, the view is all the more impressive.

A site of rare beauty, in danger. The site and the view are absolutely grandiose and of a rare beauty. But when you see the rice fields of Batad or Hapao, those of Banaue are very impressive. In fact, there are almost no real rice fields left: some have been transformed into vegetable gardens, others are still devoted to rice cultivation and the majority have fallen into disuse and are covered with grass. This abandonment is explained by the fact that the farmers are getting older, most of them have already passed away and the new generations have neither the desire nor the time to take care of them, they are studying and have other ambitions. It is necessary to understand them, the work in the rice fields is grueling (planting, harvesting, maintenance of the low walls, irrigation systems, heat, physical effort, loads to carry). However, they are aware that this exceptional landscape is a major tourist site and that they therefore need it. They are waiting for the government and UNESCO to take measures to preserve it.

Taal volcano is a volcanic complex composed of a vast caldera of 15 km by 20 km, occupied by Taal Lake. Taal Lake is the^3rd largest body of water in the country (235 ^km2). It is in the center of the lake, on the island-volcano or Taal volcano, that historical eruptions have been recorded. Vulcano Island consists of a cone whose summit crater is also filled by a lake. It is considered the smallest active volcano in the world. Indeed, the most powerful eruptions are capable of generating devastating tsunamis (1 330 victims in 1911). The eruption of 1965 devastated 60 ^km2 and killed a hundred people. An eruptive activity in 1976 and 1977 with fumaroles and projections generated the evacuation of the populations. Between 2020 and 2022, the volcano erupted again, with strong seismic activity, forcing thousands of people to evacuate and the Manila airport to suspend flights.

In 2023, it reopened to the public and is still an important tourist attraction. The walk can be done in one day when conditions permit. On the crater, a one-hour climb leads to the top where you can admire the inner lake and its fumaroles. It is also possible to go for a horse ride (about 500 PHP).

How to get there. From Tagaytay, take a Jeepney (60 PHP, every hour, 20 minutes) or a tricycle (300 PHP) to Talisay, a small village on the lake. From Talisay, take a banca to get to the crater.

Founded in 1911, by the Belgian missionary mother Basil Gekière, the museum houses a collection of objects that give a glimpse of the way of life of the 7 tribes of the Cordillera. Photographs, relating the indigenous customs are exposed. The traditions of the Igorots, the Bontocs, the Kalingas, the Kakaneys of Benguet, the Ilongots, the Aetas and the Ibalois are examined in detail. Replicas of traditional houses in the museum's garden showcase ancient tools, jars, porcelain, antique jewelry and traditional costumes.

Opposite City Hall. This famous tree was planted by Magellan on April 4, 1521, to mark the spot where the first Christian Filipinos, Rajah Humabon and Queen Juana, were baptized by Brother Pedro Valderama. Some 400 of their descendants followed in their footsteps. The cross is protected by a basilica dating from 1565, which some believe to be the first Christian church in the Philippines. All Southern jeepneys, direction Banawa, Guadalupe, Basak, Labangon, Pardo, etc., lead to the Santo Niño church and the Magellan cross.

This is the only place to observe tarsiers without harming them. Accompanied by a guide, you can observe them in their natural habitat, from a distance and in silence. This small primate is very fragile, and noise or flashbulbs can cause it great stress and even death. It's an endangered species, so it's important to protect it, especially as it's endemic to Bohol, Samar and Leyte. The world's smallest primate has disproportionately large eyes and the amazing ability to turn its head 360°. Be discreet and responsible!

The Malatapay market is a big market, agricultural among others, which takes place every Wednesday. It is close to the boat landing for Apo Island. Roosters and carabaos pose for potential buyers, and sometimes you can even attend auctions. Handicrafts, very popular in Dauin, are obviously king here: rattan bags and mats galore, as well as every fresh product, fruit or vegetable imaginable. Perfect to take the pulse of the local life and why not to taste new flavors.

It is a long white sand beach quickly accessible from the center of El Nido, by tricycle or even on foot. There are a lot of boats and swimming is not ideal, especially at low tide, but people come here mostly for the beautiful sunsets, the picturesque view of the surrounding islands and its length, more than 600 meters, is conducive to a pleasant stroll. However, several restaurants, bars and hotels have settled along the beach. It remains a beautiful beach where it is interesting to make a stop.

Built between 1571 and 1607, it is the oldest stone church in the country. A pure baroque jewel of the colonial era, it has been damaged many times by various earthquakes and the bombings of 1945. Inside, one can admire its trompe l'oeil paintings made in the ^19th century by Italian artists. The four panels of its beautiful wooden door depict the life of Saint Augustine. Miguel López de Legazpi is buried in a tomb near the main altar. In 1993, UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site.

It can be reached in five minutes from the centre of the city. Tables and benches are installed for picnic. It is a superb beach of fine sand, ideal for bathing or snorkeling.

The main reason travelers come to Coron (Busuanga) is to discover the surrounding islands, such as Coron Island, considered one of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines (would it be an exaggeration to say in the world? We'll let you be the judge). Between lagoons, lakes, turquoise waters and karst cliffs, the landscapes are majestic and of rare beauty. The most beautiful sites open to the public are the Small and Big Lagoon (Twin Lagoon). The water is cold on the surface, but warm at depth due to the presence of numerous underwater hot springs. Snorkelers can set their sights on the Siete Pecados spot (100 PHP entrance fee). Beautiful coral and plenty of fish. One of the region's major attractions are the crystal-clear lakes of Barracuda and Kayangan. Barracuda is an excellent site for scuba diving and snorkeling - you can expect to see... barracudas, of course! Admission costs 150 PHP. To get to Kayangan, it's a bit of a climb, but you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking panorama of Coron Bay. And the water is unbelievably pure - it's said to be the cleanest lake in the country. A magical site. The other lakes are off-limits to visitors, out of respect for the indigenous Tagbanua tribes who live on Coron. For snorkeling, we recommend Balinsasayaw Reef, a spot where you can observe magnificent corals and a host of multicolored fish, including clownfish playing in their anemones. A magical place.

As in El Nido, island hopping is the best way to see as many sites as possible in a single day. All hotels and agencies in Coron offer them. These group tours last around 8 hours and include lunch, entrance fees to the sites and transfer from the hotel. The tours are fixed; here are a few examples:

The Coron Island Super Ultimate Tour: the most comprehensive, we'll see the seven most beautiful sites: Kayangan Lake, Barracuda Lake, Twin Peaks Coral Garden, Beach 91, Balinsasayaw Reef, CYC Beach and Twin Lagoon. Approx. PHP 1,800.

Coron Island Ultimate Tour C : Siete Pecados, Kayangan Lake, Skeleton Wreck, white sand beach (Banol, Atwayan, Smith or Beach 91), Twin Lagoon, Coral Garden and Cyc Beac. Approx. PHP 1,700.

Coron Tour B: Barracuda Lake, Twin Lagoon, a white-sand beach (Banol, Atwayan, Smith or Beach 91), Skeleton Wreck and Reef Garden. Approx. PHP 1,400.

Please note. All the boats leave at the same time in the morning, and we regret the crowds at the sites, although we understand them (we come to Coron mainly for island hopping). Rest assured, however, that the crowds in no way detract from the spectacular beauty of the scenery and the magic of the experience.

For greater peace of mind, autonomy and flexibility in choosing which sites to visit,opts for a private boat tour. Approx. PHP 4,000/person. This also allows you to request an early morning departure and avoid the crowds at the sites.

Smart tip : all agencies in Coron Town offer roughly the same services, so don't hesitate to negotiate prices a little. Another tip is to bring your own mask and snorkel (rental available), as well as a waterproof pouch to carry your phone to the various sites. Last but not least, protect yourself from the sun if you don't want to end up a crayfish at the end of the day.

An hour's drive from Dumaguete, this unique natural park offers great hiking around the two lakes(Twin Lakes): Balinsasayao and Danao. Formed more than 10,000 years ago by a volcanic eruption, these lakes are in fact craters, 90 meters deep, which have filled with water. Here, the vegetation is flamboyant and the fauna varied. Remember to bring binoculars to try to see deer and wild boar as well as a multitude of birds. It is possible to visit the park with or without a guide and also to paddle.

A dreamy beach with golden sand and coconut trees, it is the ideal place to play the Robinsons, the perfect place to withdraw from the world for a few days, bask in the sun during the day or do some diving and have a drink to admire the beautiful sunsets. Some resorts occupy the beach without altering it too much for the moment, but since 2021, a bridge has been built, making access to the beach much easier (before it was only accessible by boat). No doubt that things will change soon. Enjoy it before...

To the northeast of Ormoc, Lake Danao offers a beautiful excursion in the surrounding area. The lake was placed under state protection in 1972 and named after the wife of dictator Marcos, Imelda Lake, before becoming Danao Lake in 1998. Danao simply means "lake" in Tagalog, which explains why other lakes, such as Camotes Island, are so named. You can kayak or picnic on one of the floating huts. A breath of fresh air.

We've fallen in love with the waterfall also known as Zodiac Falls! Nestled among rocks and lush vegetation, the 7-metre waterfall is magnificent, with caves hidden beneath trickles of water and rounded, polished rocks. It's very pleasant to swim in, and the more adventurous can climb over the side to jump off (the rocks are not slippery, surprisingly). For the rest of us, it's just as exhilarating to watch the adventurers (often the locals) perform impressive pirouettes. Great atmosphere. We recommend it!

Caramoan Islands National Park, nestled on the peninsula of the same name northeast of Naga. It is one of the wildest places in the Philippines. Its limestone cliffs that plunge into the sea, its wild vegetation, its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters have an air of El Nido and Coron in northern Palawan. In short: sublime. Caramoan, if the name rings a bell, it is perhaps because the filming of Koh Lanta was held there in 2008 and more recently returned in 2023 for the ^24th edition of the cult show. In between, many versions of the North American Survivor have also taken place here. And Caramoan has become a bit of a reality TV 'paradise'. However, there are still great opportunities for adventurers, especially around Caramoan and Paniman. The most beautiful islands are : Lahuy, Matukad, Pitogo, Sabitang Laya, Minalahos, Lahus, Hunongan, Gota, Cotivas and Tinago.

Activities. There is something for everyone, from the traditional island hopping to explore the islands by boat, to diving and the many caves and beaches to explore.

Getting there. Recently, Caramoan National Park has been reached directly by land. From Naga: direct bus (5h, 260 PHP) or van to Sabang Port (1h30, 150 PHP) then boat to Guijalo Port (2h, departures from 6am to 11am, 120 PHP). Then tricycle to Caramoan (30 minutes, 120 PHP).