Tourist Attractions & Monuments Philippines

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).

Don't miss this sublime seashell-filled beach, known as Puka Shell, where there's no accommodation whatsoever. There are, however, a few small restaurants and cold drink vendors. The site is truly magnificent: turquoise water, no seaweed, white sand... a real postcard! Ideal for a day of total idleness and a quiet picnic (remember to bring everything with you). You can get there by banca along the coast of Boracay, or by tricycle from White Beach (the road ends at Puka Beach).

The one and only, the underground river of Puerto Princesa! Listed since 1999 as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and designated as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature since 2012. It is one of the most spectacular caves in the world, which you can explore by canoe. An out of the ordinary experience guaranteed! After being dropped off by the boat at the entrance, you will be given a life jacket and a helmet. A guide takes the visitors on a small boat. The trip on the river lasts 45 minutes. Armed with a flashlight, the driver paddles around in the back of the small boat and jokes about the shapes of the stalagmites and stalactites. Visits to the cave take place between 8am and 4pm. When it rains, the water becomes murky, even muddy, and the visit is less pleasant. Therefore, if you can, you should choose a day with dry weather. For those who are passionate about the river, it is recommended to ask for an in-depth visit of the river beforehand.

Practical. If you don't want to go through an agency that takes care of the excursion from A to Z from Puerto Princesa, it is possible to go to the underground river alone. In this case, it is necessary to buy a permit, if possible a day earlier, at the Underground River Booking Office in Puerto Princesa (250 PHP). Once at the Sabang pier, you take a boat to the river (15 minutes). The more adventurous can also reach the entrance on foot via the Jungle Trail (5 km, 2 hours).

Classified by Unesco, the Apo Reef is the second largest contiguous coral reef in the world (after the barrier reef in Australia) and the largest in the Philippines. It is to dive in the heart of this magnificent natural park that one goes to Sablayan essentially. The reef consists of three islets, Apo Island, Apo Manor and Cayos del Bajo, surrounded by white sand beaches. On Apo Island, a lighthouse offers a 360 degree view, it is superb. Nearly 400 species of fish including sharks, manta rays and giant napoleons - one of the largest fish, which can reach 2 meters, live more than 30 years and is part of those fish that change sex during their life, they are born female before becoming for some males. But also, there are more than 200 species of corals that inhabit these dizzying seabeds. Located at 34 kilometers from Sablayan, it takes about two hours by banca to reach Apo Reef. Since Apo Reef is very exposed to the weather, it is sometimes impossible to get there, especially during the rainy season. Therefore, prefer the season from October to May. If the reef is renowned among divers as one of the most beautiful dive sites in the country. Apo Reef is also a natural paradise for all others, as walking on the white sandy beaches of Apo Island, watching the birds, climbing the lighthouse, swimming in the crystal clear waters or kayaking are all forms of enchantment.

The Cambugahay waterfalls are one of the major attractions of the island, below the road between San Juan and Lazi. To avoid the crowds, try to go early in the morning, before 10am. The water is of an unreal color, the place of an enchanting beauty. Staircase pools, arcs of waterfalls, warm turquoise water, it is pleasant to stay there for an hour or two, to swim, picnic and why not spend a few extra pesos and try one of the liana jumps (1, 6 or 11 meters). It's wonderful!

It is one of the largest and most popular caves in Sagada and requires about 2.5 hours of visit to explore all the chambers, each more impressive than the other. On the way there, you can also enjoy a beautiful view of the Kapay-aw rice terraces and see the hanging coffins in the rock walls. Be careful: the water in the cave can sometimes be quite high (at shoulder height). Take your precautions.

No one can pass through Siquijor without hearing about the legendary sunsets on Paliton Beach, and with good reason. Two kilometers northwest of San Juan, this beach is splendid, bathed in crystal-clear waters. Deserted during the day and with no accommodations to disturb the peacefulness of the place, Paliton Beach takes on another dimension in the late afternoons, and especially on weekends when many locals come to enjoy the view and the atmosphere, with passing travelers mingling with the merrymakers. An alley of street-food stalls unfolds, providing an opportunity to try out all these local delicacies: try dynamite, for example, chillies coated in cheese and deep-fried, or mango turon, bitter mango chunks in soy sauce, accompanied by fresh fruit juice or beer. You can sit on the big tables or on the giant swings (to take your Instagram photo!). And then, of course, the beach fills up from 4pm with small groups of people meeting up with friends, playing music, splashing around in the water and waiting impatiently for the highlight of the show: slowly, the sun descends into the sky, before disappearing behind the mountains of Negros Oriental and beginning to color the sky and sea in a thousand and one shades of blue, pink and orange. Siquijor in general and Paliton Beach in particular have not stolen their reputation as the most beautiful sunsets in the Philippines. A must-see spot on the island!

After almost six hundred years of sleep, Le, located on Luzon Island, began showing signs of awakening in April 1991 (seismic and fumaroles secousses). As he was believed to be off, he showed that it was nothing since on June 15, 1991, a powerful explosion occurred. Ash clouds opacifièrent the atmosphere for several days, making it difficult to breathe. The effects of cendres ash, moreover, are cultures located beneath the prevailing winds, as well as the lava flow that dévalèrent from the top in most surrounding valleys. The elements were acharnèrent on the Philippines, as Typhoon Yunya went across the country. Its torrential rains, mixing into the ashes of the eruption, paroxysms powerful mudslides (called lahar). There were between 800 and 1 000 victims. Almost twenty years after the end of the eruption, the volcano remains a killer. Indeed, every year, ash deposits are remobilisés by the heavy rain of the wet season and turn into mud torrents, bringing their destruction and victims.

It is from the city of Angeles that the trekkings to Mount Pinatubo and its slopes are organized to the lunar landscapes. The best period for trekking runs from November to March. It is possible to leave on the sides of the volcano for half a day or to face the 8 km climb of the volcano for the most confirmed walkers. Equipment can be rented from most of the tour operators who also make available to experienced guides.

White Beach is Boracay's main attraction. The beach stretches for four kilometers along the west coast, between the villages of Angol and Balabag. Considered one of the most beautiful stretches of sand in the world, it is a national geological treasure. The dazzling white sand has an incredibly soft, powdery texture; it seems to have been sifted over and over again. The water is warm, ideal for swimming. The sunsets here are unrivalled in their beauty - among the most beautiful in the Philippines, without a doubt!

That's all well and good, but the other side of the coin is a little less sexy: during the hottest months, from February to around May, green algae invade and ruin White Beach. What's more, during the off-season, the wind forces the hotels to "barricade" themselves to avoid getting sanded up: huge tarpaulins line the beach and, although it's easy to walk from the hotels to the beach, it loses some of its legendary charm. Finally, as the most beautiful beach on the island, which is perhaps the most touristy in the archipelago, it's crowded. Nevertheless, White Beach is well worth a visit, if only to sip a juice as the sun sets.

In practice, the beach is divided into three sectors: Station 1 is home to the largest hotels (and therefore the widest beach); Station 2 is the heart of the resort, with hotels, bars and restaurants; Station 3 is more peaceful (small hotels, much less crowded).

The Loboc River is one of the jewels of the island of Bohol. Surrounded by dense, lush tropical vegetation, it has been dubbed the Amazon of the Philippines. It crosses the island for almost 60 km before joining the ocean at the mouth of Loay in the north. Depending on the weather, its peaceful waters are sometimes a luminous emerald blue, sometimes green with hints of jade. Always magnificent. Along its shores, a number of ecolodges have sprung up, remaining fairly discreet and in harmony with their surroundings, to welcome travellers in search of tranquillity. Most of them offer the same activities, i.e. an evening ride on a banca to watch the fireflies, massages, Filipino cooking lessons (sometimes) and stand-up paddle trips on the river (500 PHP). This is the nicest way to discover the river, going at your own pace, with no engine noise, alone with a guide who tells stories, it's slow and you take your time to soak up the scenery, a great experience! If you prefer to sit back, you can kayak up the river (400 PHP). Finally, you can embark on a 1-hour boat cruise along the Loboc River, accompanied by a Filipino buffet lunch. On some boats, you'll be treated to more or less authentic music and dance (tips welcome: 20-50 PHP). It's a tourist experience that's sure to please. In any case, the Loboc River is one of Bohol's natural wonders.

Also known as Magsaysay Island, it can be reached from the village of San Roque in 20 minutes by boat. It lies off the east coast of Camiguin and is home to a few fishing families. The sand on this small island is even whiter than on White Island, and the rocky seabed makes it ideal for snorkeling. You can also enjoy grilled fish, shellfish or soup. Please note that the maximum time on the island is 4 hours.

It allows you to observe a multitude of Philippine butterflies and to discover other species such as praying mantises and giant scorpions. It is best to go on a sunny day. The guides present on the spot give a lot of information on the importance of protecting these species and their environment. Indeed, most of them are endangered like the Palawan bearcat (a kind of cat...bear) or the saltwater crocodile. On site, it is also possible to meet members of an indigenous tribe and learn more about their way of life.

Located not far from Mambajao, the volcano or Mount Hibok-Hibok is the only one of Camiguin's seven active volcanoes. However, the volcano last erupted in 1951, causing extensive damage to the town. In the aftermath of this catastrophe, which killed almost 500 people and caused major losses to animals and plants, a national observatory called Philvolcs (Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology) was set up 400 metres up on the mountainside to monitor and analyze the volcano's activity. This observatory is well worth a visit before reaching the foot of the volcano, if you wish to learn more about volcanoes and earthquakes. It is also advisable to consult the observatory before considering climbing the volcano, accompanied by a local guide (your hotel or tourist office will undoubtedly be able to direct you to one). At 1,300 metres high, it takes around eight hours to walk up and back down. It's a real challenge for climbers, but after this effort, which starts gently on the prepared paths, you'll be sure to appreciate the magnificent view over the sea and forest, and further afield to the islands of Bohol, Siquijor, Cebu and Negros. Hibok-Hibok has four craters, some of which have become small lakes. All the more beautiful for the view. A unique hike in an exceptional environment.

Located in the center of the island, this cave was discovered in 1985. It is about 300 meters long and 10 meters wide and has an impressive underground river where you can take a dip. The visit is a bit acrobatic but fortunately one or two guides accompany each visitor. One thing is sure: you have to like adventure and not be claustrophobic but it's worth it! Remember to take good shoes (with water) and be careful, we come out a little dirty from this little escapade.

They are among the most beautiful rice fields in the archipelago! They can be reached on foot, in 3 hours, above Bontoc. They are built in staircases, with low stone walls to support them. The trek must be undertaken with a guide. Once up there, preferably early in the morning, a breathtakingly beautiful view opens up, often with a gradually dissipating sea of clouds, over the mountains, the village of Bontoc and the Chico River. It's absolute calm, a place that seems frozen in time, untouched by the frenzy of modern life.

The Ma-Cho temple overlooks the sea from its hill. This pagoda, a singular example of religious syncretism (Taoist and Catholic), testifies to the importance of the Chinese influence on the city. It is the first Taoist temple of the country, built in 1975. Inside, a multitude of Chinese and Taiwanese works and decorations. The effigy of the Virgin of Caysasay is brought here during the festival of the Virgin in September. There are so few temples in the Philippines, the only predominantly Catholic country in Asia, so you might as well take advantage of it.

On this beautiful beach, you will be able to taste culinary specialties such as sutukil which combines the three ways of cooking fish: sugba (grilled fish), tula (fish soup) and kinelaw (fish marinated in vinegar sauce). It is also the only place where you can taste sinakol, a corn cake cooked in a bamboo tube. The hearty plate will not cost you more than 50 PHP. From the shore, you can see the island of Apo just in front. However, many resorts have taken up residence on this beach.

White Island" is an incomparably soft sandbank - immaculately white, if you must know - up to three hundred metres long at low tide, disappearing completely at high tide. White Island lies two kilometers between Agoho and the beaches of Yumbing, just behind the Hibok-Hibok volcano. It's the ideal place to sunbathe, snorkel or simply enjoy the view of the surrounding area from this paradise islet. However, it's best to get there early in the morning or at the end of the day, as there's no shade on this sandbar glistening in the turquoise blue of the Mindanao Sea, and what's more, you may be the only ones to enjoy the island for an hour or so.

Underwater. White Beach is also an excellent expedition for snorkeling enthusiasts, just around the beach and some three hundred meters from the islet. Its seabed is actually home to a sloping reef ranging in depth from six to twenty-five metres. To explore it, however, you need to be a certified " advanced " diver. Among other things, there's a magnificent black coral garden, and an occasional current offers the chance to see bigger fish and feel yourself fly as the current carries you away... For experienced divers only. Fish are abundant here, with stingrays, moray eels, scorpion fish and crabs to name but a few.

Pagudpud, 72 km from Laoag and with a population of 26,000, is the most famous beach resort in Northern Luzon. It is often described as the "Boracay of the North". You will realize that this reputation is a bit overrated. The three beaches lined with coconut palms are nevertheless very pleasant: Saud Beach is favored by hotels, Pansian Beach is almost deserted and Blue Lagoon, with its white sand and azure sea, attracts the idlers and also its share of surfers, who enjoy its waves, between July and November.

Located at the eastern end of Rizal Park, the National Museum includes museums of fine arts, natural history, Filipino people, etc. It is one of the most interesting museums in Manila. There are many collections and temporary exhibits that trace the rich and varied history of the Philippines. It is easy to spend the day there and it is a very good gateway to the culture of the country. Especially since the cultural offer is quite reduced outside the city, so we take advantage of it!

Located in the heart of Intramuros, the Basilica-Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception is the seat of the Diocese of Manila. The current structure is a reconstruction as it was partially destroyed during World War II (in fact, it is the seventh version since the original structure was built in 1571). Filipinos still remember the visit of Pope Francis in 2015 who celebrated mass here. Its dome is huge and its stained glass windows tell the story of Christianization. Many weddings are celebrated here every weekend.

Located in the northern part of Binondo's Chinatown, the cemetery was founded in the ^mid-19th century by Lim Ong and Tan Quien Sien (Don Carlos Palanca) in order to facilitate the burial of a large number of Chinese who were not allowed to be buried in the Spanish Catholic cemeteries by the Spanish colonists. The cemetery is very picturesque and covers an area of 54 hectares. Respect for the ancestors and the dead is very important in Chinese communities. Thus, far from being an ordinary cemetery, a little austere, dedicated to death and meditation, this one is a real village in the city where the graves are houses, sometimes equipped with all the necessary comfort (refrigerator, air conditioner, cooking plates, bathroom) so that the families of the deceased are well installed when they come to visit their dead. It is even estimated that about 6,000 people live here, in the mausoleums, waiting for better days. Every Saturday, the cemetery resounds with the presence of its visitors who liven up the place: singing, smells of fake money and burning incense. Its streets are made up of mausoleums richly decorated with marble, wrought iron and stained glass, many even in Art Deco style. A monument houses the ashes of the cremated on two floors and, on the third, the bones of those who will return to their native land, China. The poorest are buried on the left side of the Buddhist temple. An amazing visit!

The 58-hectare Rizal Park is a must-see place: both a favorite place of relaxation for Filipino walkers and families and a place steeped in history. Considered one of the largest parks in Asia, it stretches from Taft Avenue to Manila Bay. It was called Bagumbayan Field or Luneta during the colonial period, which means "little moon" and was used by the Spaniards as a place of execution for revolutionary Filipinos. The park is now called Rizal National Park in honor of the national hero, Jose Rizal, who was executed here in 1896. His death led to the Philippine revolution. Among the historical events that took place in the park, we should mention the declaration of independence from the United States in 1946, the demonstrations against President Marcos in the 1970s and 1980s, or the impressive World Youth Day in 1995 when a tide of 5 million faithful (!) poured in to attend the mass of Pope John Paul II. Finally, every year, festivities take place on June 12 for Independence and on December 31.

Every day, from the first light of the day, on its lawns, one can meet tai chi lovers or joggers who enjoy the morning freshness. It is also a favorite place for all kinds of oddballs: preachers, smooth talkers and chess players. They are installed near Central Lagoon and give the park a special atmosphere. You can walk around the park from Manila Bay in a clockwise direction and see the following sights

The Delfonso Marcello sculpture. The most beautiful view of the park. The sunset over Manila Bay is magnificent.

The Manila Hotel. The most traditional and most luxurious hotel in Manila. Built in 1912, it is the first 5-star hotel in the Philippines. It was notably the residence of General MacArthur. A visit (or a night) not to be missed.

The Rizal monument. It is certainly the most significant of the monuments in the park and is inspired by the death of Rizal. His farewell poem is inscribed on a plaque in different languages.

The Philippine flag. Next to the Rizal monument, the flagpole of the Philippines flies at a height of 31 meters. It symbolizes the independence of the country, freed from the American yoke on July 4, 1946. It also represents the kilometer 0, which is the reference point to calculate distances in the Philippines.

The Rizal Fountain. Given as a sign of friendship by the Protestant Church of Heidelberg in Germany.

The auditorium. In the open air, it hosts events and concerts.

Chinese and Japanesegardens. The Chinese garden is quite nice, the Japanese garden next to it is a bit more basic but still pleasant.

The orchidarium. Located at the corner of Maria Orosa and P. Burgos Street, it features local orchids and other plant species.

Map. In relief, the 7,000 islands of the Philippines.

National Museum of the Philippines. Located at the eastern end of Rizal Park, one of the most interesting museums to discover the history of Philippine art.

In summary, Rizal Park is a real oasis of calm in the urban jungle that is Manila. It is not particularly beautiful but it is a very important place for all Filipinos so it is worth a visit if you spend a day in the capital. It combines very well with the visit of Intramuros just next door.

Manila Bay, with an area of 2,000 ^km2, extends 48 km inland from the sea. It is home to the port of Manila and is known for the battle that took place there between the Spanish and the Americans in 1898. In 2023, it was declared a "dead zone" because of its extreme pollution. A long walk allows you to go along it: you can contemplate it for example from the Mall of Asia or further on the Dolomite Beach. The bay is the ideal place to admire sunsets, which are, admittedly, quite breathtaking.

Baclayon Church, or Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church by its real name, is the second oldest stone Catholic church in the country. It was built by Jesuit priests in 1595, although some historians say it was actually built in 1717. For the record, it was built from coral rock that was cemented with the white of thousands (or even millions) of eggs! Severely damaged by the 2013 earthquake, it was only five years later that it was able to reopen.

It's one of the capital's most famous historic sites. Construction of the fort began in 1571 and lasted over 150 years. From up there, you could observe every movement in Manila Bay. And as colonized Manila grew in importance and wealth through trade, so too did Fort Santiago, gradually becoming a wonderful showcase for Spanish success in this part of Asia. The fort was the scene of many painful events, as it was here that many soldiers perished, including the man who would become a true national hero, Dr. José Rizal. The revolutionary poet spent his last days here before being executed by the Spanish on December 30, 1896. Fort Santiago is also known as the Shrine of Freedom, named in 1950 in memory of the Filipino heroes imprisoned and killed here under Spanish and then Japanese rule. Partially rebuilt after the Second World War, it has become a symbol of Filipino revolt against the various occupiers, and a place for strolling for locals and visitors alike. Tables are available for picnics, and you can climb the remnants of the ramparts, which offer beautiful views over Manila. There's also an open-air theater, the Rajah Soliman Theater, in tribute to the Muslim leader of pre-colonial Manila, and the Rizal Museum. A must-see (especially for history buffs)!

At the end of Rizal Park, near the bay, this amusement park is an interesting choice for families. You can visit large aquariums and you can even walk underwater! Children love the penguin room where they lend you a coat before entering so that you can see them in their natural habitat... A lot of activities are possible. The services are numerous: hotel, restaurants, bars, spa, stores... A very complete structure!

Many Filipinos come here on weekends because the hanging coffins are one of Luzon's landmarks. For over 2,000 years, the people of Sagada have practiced a rather unique burial rite. Here, the dead are not buried but on the contrary, the coffins are suspended from the walls of the cliffs because placed in height, the spirits have more chance to reach the afterlife. Some coffins are over a century old. It should be noted that this custom tends to die out.

Walking down Session Road, the liveliest street in the city center, you come across the public market, which stretches along Magsaysay Avenue. The market is a very popular, huge attraction with multiple, well-stocked sections. You can find everything from beautiful flowers and sampaguitas to cashews, roasted peanuts, jams, strawberries, clothes, tennis shoes, flip-flops. It is full of fresh fruits and vegetables from the farms of La Trinidad and Benguet. A must to feel the pulse of the city!

Bocos, on the road from Banaue to Mayoyao, shows houses decorated with buffalo skulls. Further on, towards Batad, Matanglag is famous for its bronze founders, who work on statuettes and amulets. For the Ifugaos, these silver or bronze pendants represent luck and fertility. Down the road, Poi-Tan, is known for its perfectly preserved traditional culture. In this very pretty village, bordered by a river, problems are solved by a council of elders and the inhabitants are engaged in woodcarving.

The Bell Church or Buddhist temple is located to the north, under the aegis of an ecumenical community mixing Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism and Christianity. Chinese priests can make predictions to visitors. There are pagodas, dragons, the traditional koi pond and even a shrine containing the image of Our Lady of Lourdes after climbing another two hundred and fifty-two steps to Lourdes Grotto. It has a beautiful view of the city since it is located at the top of the hill.

St. Paul's Cathedral in Vigan is known for its baroque architecture and more specifically "earthquake baroque", an architectural style unique to the Philippines. For example, the bell tower was built next to the main body of the church so that it would not collapse inside in case of an earthquake. It was built by the Augustinians between 1790 and 1800. It is really gigantic. The tomb of Leona Florentino, poetess of Ilocano, the first woman of letters of the country, can be seen there (on a column near the entrance on Plaza Burgos).

These islands are an ideal place for a day trip. The bay is located in Santa Lourdes (Tagburos), on the east coast of Palawan, 10 km from the capital's docks, and is made up of several islets with outcropping reefs bordering beautiful beaches, favorite spots for swimmers and divers. These lands are called Cowrie Island (shells); Bat Island, home to bats that hang in the mangroves; Lu-Li Island, visible only at low tide (derived from lulubog-lilitaw meaning "floating" and "sinking"); Meara Island, a peaceful private island; Starfish Sandbar Resort, known for its white sandbar and clear waters with starfish (you can camp there if you have your own equipment); Snake Island and its long stretch of white sand in the shape of a snake; Pandan Island with its white sand and coral reefs; Senorita Island, a place where lapu-lapu fish are bred; Arrecife Island, with its white sand and luxury hotel (the Dos Palmas Island Resort).

Getting there. Jeepneys and tricycles run the Puerto Princesa-Tagburos route daily (40 minutes). At the Santa Lourdes de Tagburos port (10 km north of Puerto Princesa), fishermen rent their motorboats for islandhopping. The nearest one can be reached in 30 minutes. All travel agencies in Puerto Princesa also organize day trips to Honda Bay: it's not expensive and everything is included!

An interesting museum about the national hero Jose Rizal whose death inspired the struggles for Philippine independence. Restored in 2014, it shows objects that belonged to him when he was imprisoned for two months before being executed on December 30, 1896. Among the objects on display are books and manuscripts, letters, sculptures, paintings, but also souvenirs brought back from his many boat expeditions and objects from his home in Calamba. The video projections allow us to recall the atmosphere of the time.

A Dumaguete legend often refers to the famous Bell Tower, built in 1811. This tower was used as a belfry to warn the inhabitants of the city of the arrival of pirates and Muslims. According to this legend, the attacks of the latter were carried out to kidnap the most beautiful women of the country who were in Dumaguete. Today, the place still has a strong religious connotation, the inhabitants come there to pray and light candles.

The Katibawasan Falls are a breathtaking sight. Their clear waters tumble like a veil from a height of over seventy meters into a natural pool surrounded by rich vegetation: wild orchids, ferns and other woody components of tropical flora. These are Camiguin's highest waterfalls. Bathers and picnickers frequent this spot, especially in summer, for its refreshing waters.

Mount Bandilaan, in the center of the island is the highest point of Siquijor at 628 meters. The park office is located in Cantabon near the caves of the same name. The 360-degree view from the watchtower and the surrounding landscape are worth the trip on a clear day. This mountain is home to the mystical village of San Antonio, famous for hosting during the holy week many healers who exchange their knowledge to prepare various potions and concoctions (for a fee of course, count on about 500 PHP). The Good Friday ceremony is worth seeing.

Nagtabon Beach is a beautiful stretch of white sand, more than 800 meters long and surrounded by crystal clear waters. It is located at one hour drive from Puerto Princesa. Still preserved from the influx of tourists, it reigns there a certain softness of life which invites to the relaxation and the contemplation. That of marvelous sunsets, for example. Be careful between October and February, the waves are too strong but otherwise it is possible to swim and surf. A camping site is not far away for those who want to prolong the pleasure.

It is a huge park of 27 hectares, the largest of all Quezon City. It forms a kind of enormous roundabout encircled by the road. In the middle of the park stands the Quezon Memorial, a 66-meter high statue erected in honor of Manuel L. Quezon, the first president of the Philippines in the period of independence under the Commonwealth in 1934. The park is very popular with Filipinos who call it the Circle and come to play sports, picnic or simply to meet and rest.

One of the most famous parks in the country. Centered on an artificial lagoon, this park is named after the American urban planner Daniel Burnham who designed the city of Baguio. The park, a real green corridor of more than 32 hectares, in the heart of the city, is one of the refuges of the city dwellers who like to meet there to picnic, walk or enjoy the lake. The grounds are also ideal for concerts and the flowered paths attract cyclists and rollerbladers. There are also tennis, soccer and basketball courts, and an orchidarium.

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

There's no need to go through an agency to organize your whale shark interaction outing: just go to the tourist office, register, complete a 6-person boat (or share the price), pay theenvironmental fee and snorkeling equipment rental and then set off on your adventure. Before heading out to sea, the friendly staff will show you a promotional video that also includes safety rules to ensure the animal's well-being, which is protected and preserved here.

Swimming with whale sharks of 20 meters long? If it wasn't already a dream, it should become one at the mere mention of this exceptional experience... Welcome to Donsol, one of the few spots in the world where you can interact with what is considered the biggest fish in the world (the whale is a mammal), in an incredible setting. Here, whale sharks(butanding in Tagalog) are not fed to be attracted like in Oslob, they live their life quietly in freedom, following the plankton. It is up to us to adapt to the animal and not the other way around (this is the principle of ecotourism and we love it!). The downside of this perfect picture? You have no guarantee that the whale sharks will show up the day you will be there. But let's say that this uncertainty is part of the experience, spices it up. However, you should know that the best period is from March to May, and that as early as December it is possible to see them. When it rains, for example, they stay in the background. So, it's up to you to decide. The trip to Donsol and the 3 hours in the boat are still a pleasant moment, sprinkled with adrenaline and the excitement of crossing the path of these big fish. And if you are one of the happy few who have the chance to swim with them, then the pleasure will be multiplied by ten. In summary: an experience recommended when you have time to spare as it easily takes 3-4 days and there is no certainty to see these magnificent marine animals!

Lovers of unique landscapes should go to the Suba dunes (between Laoag and Paoay), a sandy desert in a tropical region. Some of the dunes reach 800 meters in width. It is a bit like the Sahara of the Philippines (hardly exaggerating...). Scenes from Mad Max and Born on the Fourth of July were even filmed there. It is possible to rent all-terrain vehicles or buggies but the main activity is less polluting and less expensive: if you have always dreamed of skiing or surfing in the sand... you will be able to realize your dream here!

Located one hour from Virac, Binurong viewpoint is in the baranguay of Guinsaanan. Once you get there, you still have to make a short and easy 20 minutes trek to reach the viewpoint. And there, you just have to enjoy the dazzling view which is offered to you, green pastures, steep cliffs, the agitated sea... The most courageous will get up early to come and contemplate the sunrise from here, you will not be disappointed. Finally, for the little information, in bicolano binurong means "healing".

Located about 15 kilometers from Legazpi, in Camalig, Solong Eco-Park opened to the public in 2017. The place is ideal for families or nature lovers and sportsmen (but it is also a very quiet and relaxing place). One comes here to discover the pleasures of caving in the Crystal Cave for example. And above all, you can go up to the top of Solong Hill to enjoy an incredible view of the Mayon volcano but especially of the Quitinday Hills, hunchbacked hills covered with greenery... like the famous Chocolate Hills of Bohol.

It is said that this waterfall is the highest in the Philippines with its 250 m height. A very impressive place.

At the top of a hill, this open-air chapel features relics of the Holy Infant Jesus of Prague and Our Lady of Fatima, as some Filipinos call her. From here, surrounded by fruit trees, you have a panoramic view of the city and Mount Apo. It's a major place of pilgrimage, especially during Holy Week. Go on Sundays to share a true moment of life, when there are more people, including Filipino families.

Located next to the American Cemetery in the Fort Bonifacio area, the Libingan ng mga Bayani (Heroes' Cemetery) is an important place of remembrance for the more than 33,000 Filipino soldiers who died in Bataan, Corregidor and other places during World War II. The cemetery also houses the graves of the Unknown Soldier, Filipino presidents including Fidel Ramos who died in 2022, Filipino artists and other prominent figures.

This beach with volcanic sand is long and strewn with open cottages for picnic. Very pleasant with natural spring water pool. Water sports proposed.