Things to see and do Luzon

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!