The most beautiful natural sites to discover Philippines

This is one of the things to do when you stop in Taytay for a day or two. Go to the port, where traditional bancas can take you for a day to discover the beautiful islands of Taytay Bay, each one more beautiful than the other. Elephant Island is known for its lagoon hidden in a cave and in which it is possible to swim. Isla Banca is surrounded by crystal clear waters and a breathtaking coral garden. You may be lucky enough to be alone on these islands.

The highest peak in Romblon province is located here on Sibuyan Island. Mount Guiting-Guiting rises to 2,050 meters in the heart of the island, invaded as far as the eye can see by a lush and varied flora. Former President Ramos declared it a National Park in 1996. It shelters an extremely rich biodiversity of which numerous endemic species because of its isolation. Some of its plants are used for medical research. Orchids border the path. We also discover rare species of rodents, leopard cats - a species in the process of extinction - and tiny bats. It is impossible to climb the mountain without a guide who knows the terrain. Indeed, a trek can be undertaken in several days but it is considered one of the most difficult in the Philippines (difficulty 9/9) and on the way, you will sometimes have to climb vertiginous and slippery rock faces, sometimes making use of ropes. In short, to be reserved for well trained people, and for the others, we will be satisfied to admire the Guiting-Guiting from far, which is already magnificent.

A paradise in danger. For several years, the inhabitants of Sibuyan and associations for the protection of the environment have been trying to oppose large mining companies that seek to extract nickel deposits on the island. In early 2023, there were clashes when the inhabitants erected a human barrier to prevent a company's trucks from passing.

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.

One of the main activities is island hopping: we sail from island to island to snorkel, sunbathe and have lunch with a grilled fish. There are 4 different circuits (but quite similar all the same): A, B, C and D. All of them start around 9am and include a lunch. A stop at Paradise Island is highly recommended: beautiful corals, paradise beach, a good spot for lunch. German Island is also a stop not to be missed, to swim with the turtles in the morning!

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.

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.

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.

Located halfway between El Nido and Taytay, the Kuyawyaw Falls are mostly popular with Filipino tourists but not with foreign tourists because the place is not mentioned in guidebooks. It takes 30 minutes by scooter from Taytay. A guide is compulsory (which we regret a little because it is not necessary and it is quite expensive). You just have to follow the course of the river to reach the 3 waterfalls opened to the public. This quick excursion can be a refreshing stop before reaching El Nido.

Nacpan Beach is located 20 km north of El Nido. This huge paradise beach, once deserted, is becoming more and more popular with tourists, but it is so big that its new popularity does not yet affect the pleasure of basking there. We advise you to rent a scooter to get there. On the way, make a stop at Nagkalit-kalit waterfalls. Duli Beach is located even further north, 45 minutes from El Nido by scooter. It is even wilder than Nacpan, not very crowded and with nice waves to surf. There is a restaurant on site.

It is possible to organize a visit of Barangay Polaraquen, formerly called Canique. A true ethnological discovery of its inhabitants. Most circuits are satisfied however to visit the waterfall, to 6 km of the center of the community (one goes there by motorbike or tricycle). One can swim there. A guide is essential (and required, moreover).

Malampaya was used by the Tagbanuas to mean "rich in fish". Another recommended excursion (preferably in the early morning or late afternoon) is to the Malampaya Sound, a protected area since 2000, on the west coast on the way to El Nido. There you can observe Irrawaddy dolphins, close relatives of the orca. The species, according to the WWF, is in critical danger of extinction. Threatened by pollution and fishing nets, their population is estimated at about thirty individuals.

Lake Danao (also known as Lake Manguao) was formed by the subsidence of a volcano and is filled with fresh water from which some islands emerge. With an area of 6.7 hectares, it is the largest freshwater lake in Palawan. It is a birdwatcher's paradise where more than 120 species of birds can be observed. It takes about two hours to get there and you can choose between a hike in the surrounding jungle, a boat ride on the lake (about 1,500 PHP) and a picnic. It is a nice place for a quiet break in the middle of nature.

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.

This would be one of the "happiest" places in Bicol, and it is true that this eco-place is very popular with the locals. In the heights of Daraga, FarmPlate is a kind of large recreational park, where you can find picnic tables, a small farm, a nice chapel and even a few trailers that offer snacks and drinks. You have to come in the late afternoon on a nice day. The sunset on the Mayon volcano, on this plain surrounded by palm trees, the garlands that light up... there is a bit of a Californian atmosphere.

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. 

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.

This is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful beaches in El Nido. Hurry there to enjoy the sunset and especially the beauty of this picturesque site, its white sand and crystal clear waters. Ideal for a day of relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of the city. On the spot, some restaurants, bars and resorts have settled, distorting a little the beach. However the atmosphere is still peaceful, simply you will not be alone to enjoy it.

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.

At the end of a beautiful road surrounded by palm trees, 15 minutes from El Nido, Lio Beach is a surprisingly charming little beach, away from the crowds and yet offering a host of services. On site, several bars and restaurants, the possibility to rent kayaks and paddles, a volleyball court and deck chairs to relax. In the evening, there are regular concerts. Don't miss the sunset, with the silhouette of the surrounding islands in the distance, simply sublime. A good spot to spend a fun and relaxing day.

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.

Lovers of old stones should go to Savidug and Chavayan. These two villages are home to traditional Ivatan stone houses. These houses are extremely sturdy and designed to withstand the twenty or so typhoons that hit the Batanes every year. The inhabitants live here peacefully, mostly from fishing and a little from agriculture. It is possible to buy the famous typical women's headgear (vakul), at the Sabtang Weavers Association, for about 400 PHP. Men wear jackets (kanayi) and hats (salakut).

You'll have to climb more than 700 steps to reach the most famous viewpoint in the city of Coron. But it's worth the effort; at the top, a breathtaking panoramic view will be yours. To the right are the domed hills covered with vegetation, to the left is the silhouette of Coron Island, one of the most beautiful islands in the archipelago, and in between is the beautiful Coron Bay. To avoid the heat, it is advisable to do this short (but intense) hike either early in the morning or at the end of the day for the sunset.

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!

Nestled at the bottom of the valley which shelters the sublime rice fields of Hapao, we reach it after 1 hour of walk. We cross the river by a small bridge to reach these natural hot springs. In a small natural pool, bubbles are formed. There is a light smell of sulfur because it is what creates the bubbles. On the spot, there are cabins to change (remember to take your bathing suit and keep an eye on your things). It is very pleasant to bathe in such a naturally warm water. It seems that the sulfur also has benefits for the body.

Samal boasts an interesting natural environment, so it's no surprise that island hopping is one of the main activities here.

Talikud Island. Adjacent to Samal Island, Talikud Island is one of the most popular in the area. A number of resorts have set up here, and you can also enjoy its long white sandy beach during the day. Its seabed is popular with snorkeling enthusiasts, as it is home to a coral garden covering several hectares. You can also camp on the beach.

Ligid Islands. These are two islets off the coast of Samal, the smaller of four hectares being home to the Buenavista resort. While both are superb islets, it's the seabed that attracts dive enthusiasts, with its abundance of big fish and coral.

Kaputian Beach. The waters are turquoise, the sand is white and the nearby coral is home to a large number of fish. Kaputian Beach is also renowned as a pleasant spot for camping and spending the night under the stars.

Sabang Cliff. A change from the usual white sandy beaches, here you'll find rocky cliffs of varying heights, perfect for jumping into the turquoise water.

Monfort Bat Sanctuary. This cave is home to hundreds and hundreds of bats. As the visit takes place during the day, there's no risk - they're asleep. But to see them all huddled together, clinging to the rock face, is a unique and impressive sight.

A trip to the Bacuit Archipelago(island hopping) is often THE reason to come to El Nido and maybe even to the Philippines. The bay of Bacuit and its small and large islands are indeed breathtakingly beautiful. Between the incredible verticality of the dark gray karst rocks, the turquoise lagoons, the pristine beaches and the lush vegetation never touched by man, it is simply a unique mix of colors, one of the most beautiful landscapes in the world that you have before your eyes.

It is very easy to make a tour of the islands. Most hotels can organize it and many agencies have swarmed in recent years. There are four different standardized tours that allow visitors to be spread out over the different sites. A typical tour leaves at 9am and returns at 4pm. Lunch - often very good (vegetables, fresh fish, fruit) - is always included as well as the transfer to/from the hotel. Snorkeling or kayaking equipment is either included or extra.

The prices are generally aligned, even if some agencies try to sell off their prices to attract customers. We advise you to stick to the suggestions of your hotel or to the official agencies spread out in the center of El Nido. We generally leave on a large banca from the port of El Nido, enclosed in its cliffs, it is already incredibly picturesque. Be careful, to reach the boat that leaves most often from the "beach" of El Nido, you often have to walk in the water (keep your shoes on) or even swim, better be warned. Some providers offer speedboat tours: it is faster, you go further and you spend more time in the water or on the beach. The ideal would be to make a circuit in banca and another in speedboat. You can choose to do a group tour (15-20 people) or a private tour. A private tour is certainly more expensive (about 65 € per person for a group of 4) but is synonymous with privacy and freedom.

Tour A: Seven Commando Beach, Big Lagoon, Shimitzu Island, Paayong Payong and Secret Lagoon. 1,200 PHP/person/group; 12,000 PHP/2 persons/private.

Tour B: Entatula Isla, Snake Island, Cudognon Cave, Cathedral Cave and Papaya Beach. 1,300 PHP/person/group; 11,500 PHP/2 persons/private.

Tour C: Helicopter island, Hidden Beach, Cagbatang Island, Secret beach and Matinloc shrine. 1,400 PHP/person/group; 12,000 PHP/2 persons/private.

Tour D: Cadlao Lagoon, Paradise Beach, Pasindigan Cove, Buka Island and Small Lagoon. 1,200 PHP/person/group; 11,500 PHP/2 persons/private.

The Petit Futé's opinion. Tours A and C are the most popular (especially because of the Big Lagoon in tour A and the Hidden Beach in tour C), so you will not be alone, far from it... Tours B and D allow a little more solitude even if it is rare - non-existent, let's admit it - in this dreamy archipelago. If you can afford it, we recommend a private island hopping, you won't regret it, your guide will not hesitate to move away from the tourist spots because he knows the crowded hours. The cherry on the cake would be to leave very early in the morning to arrive on the sites before everybody! In any case, even if you choose the option in group and in daytime, it will not take anything away from this unique experience which will remain magical.

It is a very popular spot, especially at the end of the day, which does not detract from the charm of the experience. Travelers as well as locals come to bask in these naturally hot springs. The water, half spring water, half sea water, reaches in some places 40 degrees! It is in fact thanks to an underwater volcano that boils (no danger on land, rest assured). We come there to relax after a day of exploration, to enjoy the superb sunset from a most sympathetic frame between limestone rocks, vegetation and bay in the distance.

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).

Disappearing Island is about 45 minutes by boat from Samal. As its name suggests, this islet disappears and appears with the tides. It's best to go there at low tide, to have the opportunity to tread its immaculate sand while enjoying the pretty beaches that surround it. A number of traditional houses on stilts are available to spend a night a little out of time, to the rhythm of the tides. The area is also ideal for snorkeling.

Located along Roxas Boulevard, this is a free beach whose only interest is to go there to watch the sunset, between 5 and 6 pm. Paradoxically, it is frequent that a security guard asks everyone to leave the beach at this time because it closes at 6pm, so it's a bit of a pity but it doesn't take away the beauty of the sunset! Between the beach and the boulevard behind, a kind of small market with street food and gadgets stands, very local. There is a footbridge to go back to Ermita. To do!

Located in San Juan, Urbiztondo Beach is La Union's main and best-known surfing beach. Don't expect the white sand, turquoise waters and coconut palms of the rest of the archipelago - this is a surfing destination. On site, you'll find everything you need to rent a board, with or without a guide (we recommend taking one, as it makes catching waves much easier). Along the beach, you'll find a number of hotels, bars and restaurants. In the evening, the sunset is simply exceptional.

A 30-minute walk via a rather rocky path or a 10-minute boat ride from the main beach of Port Barton (about 150 PHP) brings you to White Beach. It is one of the most beautiful beaches in Palawan. White sand, palm trees, turquoise waters and all this just for you... a real dream! However, be careful when swimming, as the waters are known to be home to many jellyfish, sometimes very small. So prefer a stroll in the sand before having a picnic. In the evening, the sunset is sublime.

This is one of the must-visit natural sites on a trip to Siargao, a thirty-minute boat ride from Del Carmen. In terms of beauty, the Sugba lagoon is rivalled only by the Coron and El Nido lagoons, but without the crowds! After navigating through the mysterious mangroves, you come upon this lagoon, surrounded by hills covered in verdant vegetation, with turquoise and celestial waters that are absolutely incredible. Here you can rent kayaks or paddles, swim and jump. There's a boathouse for lunch.

A 40-minute scooter ride from General Luna, the road to get there is superb in itself: palm plantations, rice paddies as far as the eye can see and tropical forests. After a few steps on the left-hand side of the beach, you'll come across some astonishing rock formations forming a natural pool with turquoise waters. Note that the pool is only visible at low tide. Remember to bring slippers for swimming or even jumping. A few straw huts on site for lunch. Great spot!

A stay in Siargao would not be complete without a day of island hopping. What's on the agenda? A day's sailing to discover three islets, each more beautiful than the last, off the coast of Siargao, to feast your eyes on! The first island, Naked Island, is a 90-metre-long bank of white sand (hence the name) with transparent waters; the second, Guyam Island, is the perfect representation of the tiny desert island, almost perfectly circular - you can walk around it in 3 minutes. At its center is a cluster of palm trees. It's possible to buy a coconut (50 PHP) for refreshment; the third, Daku Island, is much larger than its two neighbors, and includes a small fishing village. It's a heavenly place, with its immaculate sandy beach and emblematic palm trees as far as the eye can see. Your dream day: palm trees, snorkeling, coconuts and white sand!

Most hotels in Siargao offer this excursion: a typical day starts at 9am and lasts until 4pm. It costs around PHP 1,400 per person. The price generally includes transfer to/from the hotel, boat, environmental fees, lunch, snorkeling equipment and an English-speaking guide. For greater flexibility, it is possible to go directly to a fisherman who will take you by banca to one or other of these islands (approx. 1,500 PHP). In this case, lunch is not included, so be sure to check the condition of the banca before boarding.

Cathedral Falls are located in Kapatagan, about 1h30 drive from Iligan. The falls were named for the shape of the rocks along which the water flows, strangely reminiscent of a cathedral. It's not the ideal place for a swim, and the water isn't always a beautiful color, but the view is nonetheless very beautiful and the site very natural, with no tourist infrastructure. Filipino families love to gather here and share a picnic on weekend days.

Stellar Ground is a kind of large park where one comes to relax, spend a day or evening with family or friends. On a large square in the shade of hundred-year-old acacias, some stalls offer various foods from around the world. There are also small stores selling typical Palawan handicrafts and on some evenings there are live music performances by local bands. It is a place where children can play, stroll around and buy nice souvenirs.

It dominates the Socsksargen region (2,293 m), in South Cotabato, around thirty kilometers from General Santos. Covering an area of 13,500 hectares, this former volcano has long since ceased to be active. Today, it is a popular destination for hikers. The trail starts in the municipality of Tupi, thirty minutes from General Santos. It takes between eight and ten hours to walk from its base. The vegetation is dense and the view from the summit (if it's not foggy) is superb.

The tourism department can organize a cruise on the river to meet the Manobo tribe, who live in boats converted into houses. Alternatively, you can hirea local speedboat . The Agusan River flows through Butuan. It is Mindanao's widest and longest navigable river, and the country's third largest. Striated by numerous tributaries, it flows through the middle of the Agusan Valley, from Davao del Norte in the south to Agusan del Norte in the north, where it empties into Butuan Bay. It is at the heart of local life.

The Bitaug Treeis located in Calocan, near Magallanes. With a diameter of almost 3 metres, it is over 500 years old and is perhaps the oldest tree in the country. As such, it has witnessed Spanish colonization, the Philippine revolution and the birth of Caraga as a region. After dark, it is inhabited by thousands of fireflies that light up the fishermen. You can see them up close (the natural Christmas Tree, as the Filipinos like to say): just ask a fisherman to take you there.

The Tuasan Falls are less popular with travellers than the Katibawasan Falls, yet they are just as impressive and just as refreshing. A lifeguard supervises the pool, so you can bathe in complete peace of mind, even though there's no current and you're on foot. The waterfall rises to a height of some twenty meters, and the water has pretty emerald-blue hues. We particularly appreciate its wooded, tropical ambience, with the waterfall surrounded by rocks and abundant, verdant wildlife. Very relaxing and photogenic.

The town of Coron is known worldwide as the gateway to many underwater wrecks. Indeed, several Japanese ships were sunk by the Americans during the Second World War. Some of them are up to 160 meters long and perfectly preserved (such as the Irako wreck), or are home to beautiful corals and abundant aquatic life (such as the Okikawa Maru, Akitsushima, Kogyo Maru or Olympia Maru wrecks). Beginners can dive around Lusong (9m) andEast Tanbgat (22m). An exceptional experience.