Things to see and do Luzon

This museum belongs to one of the most famous families of artists in the country: the Blanco family, whose mother, father and seven children all became great artists. In different styles, they mainly paint everyday life, rural life and landscapes. This private museum houses a large collection of 400 works. Very friendly, the staff will be happy to guide you and give you some explanations.

This museum is located in the former home of the martyr Padre José Burgos, who was executed by the Spaniards in 1872. The visit allows to get acquainted with the history of the province and the way of life of the inhabitants of the time (pottery, tools, clothes, jewelry). Also on display are 14 paintings by Esteban Villanueva (a businessman and self-taught artist), done in 1821, which evoke the Basi revolt of 1807. Basi is a sugarcane wine, and this revolt followed the prohibition by the Spaniards of all basi production in the provinces of Ilocos.

This small, unpretentious museum is located in Governor Park. It offers a lively approach to the life of the different tribes of the central Cordillera, the provinces of the mountains. It is full of interesting information (in English, though). Handicrafts (wood carvings, baskets, jewelry, pottery and weaving tools, newspaper articles) are exhibited there. Its architecture is for example inspired by the traditional ifugaos houses with the pyramidal roof and the wooden columns to raise the hut.

It is a dormant but still active volcano that culminates at 1,000 m of altitude, the highest point of the Batanes. Its last eruption was in 1454. Mount Iraya often has its head in the clouds, for the Ivatans, local people, this halo of clouds is formed when someone dear to the community disappears. It is possible to climb the volcano if the weather allows it: count 2 hours to the camping site, then 1 hour to the summit; we go down in about 1 hour 30 min. A guide is essential because the path is not always clear and indicated.

This mining site, also known as the Itogon Mines, is one of the tourist attractions that best illustrates the mining world and the cultural heritage of the Itogon of Benguet. The interconnected tunnels are maintained by Benguet Gold Operations, which organizes guided tours of the area. Beware, claustrophobic people will refrain. For the others, it's an interactive tour that allows you to experience mining underground. There is a small train and the guide provides elements of history during the visit.

This is one of the must-see tourist spots in Baguio. Accessible by jeepney or tricycle. The Mine Observation Park is a great scenic spot that offers splendid views of Baguio, the valley, the forests and the mountains. There are a few street vendors on site. Make a wish by tossing a coin into the old mines. The place is especially popular in the late afternoon when the sun colors the landscape.

Located inside the ENCEINTE, it houses species originating in the Subic forest.

It is the twenty-third highest peak in the Philippines, 30 kilometers southwest of Calapan. It is 2,616 meters high, which makes it also the highest point of the whole island of Mindoro. It offers superb panoramas and can be climbed in seven days (round trip), but it is an ascent reserved for seasoned hikers. It can be reached by Jeepney from Puerto Galera in about 2 hours. It is home to an extremely rich biodiversity, and is a favorite habitat for the Alagan tribe and for the endemic and endangered tamaraw.

It is the highest peak of the island. To get a glimpse of the surrounding islands, you don't have to climb it. Just take the road to the International Telecommunications (ITT), which rises to 600 m above sea level. The walk is pleasant from Lonos, through the fields. You can go down directly to the town of Romblon. The military takes care of this weather station, monitors the satellite transmitter and solar energy. When the sky is clear, early in the morning, you can even see the Mayon volcano.

From Sabang, there is a hiking trail of just over 5 kilometers, the Jungle trail, for those who wish to walk to the entrance of the river. It is reached by walking along the beach of Sabang after the Daluyong. It is forbidden to enter the trails after 3pm. Count about 2 hours to reach the entrance of the river. You can also choose to take the boat to go and return on foot or vice versa. In any case, it is advisable to pay the entrance fee at the office of the pier of Sabang before starting the walk.

The town of Kabayan is known for its burial sites that dot the surrounding hills. Knees bent over bodies embedded in hollowed-out tree trunks, the mummies are at least 500 years old and are believed to belong to the Ibaloi group. To reach the caves, you need a guide and a long walk on difficult paths. You can go to the Timbac cave or to the Tinongchol rock. The latter is as high as a three-story house and contains centuries-old mummies in cavities carved in the rock.

Its deep coastline leads to remarkable inner lagoons, often accessible only by boat. You can reach the famous Small lagoon only by swimming or kayaking. It is surrounded by cliffs interspersed with vegetation, while changing in almost artificial waters. The entrance to the Big Lagoon is very impressive: The waters are very shallow, once inside, the depth gives this time a deep green colour to this almost perfect circle surrounded by cliffs. This island is an inescapable one.

Located in the center of Banaue village, this is where the buses arrive. The tourist office is not particularly useful, you will mostly go through your guesthouse to organize your visits. However, they can provide the visitor with a map of the area (20 PHP), arrange private transportation and find you an official guide whose rates are fixed: it is necessary to count around 1 500 PHP per guide for one day. This will avoid you having to use the services of a "fake" guide (who can wait for tourists at the bus station).

This is a very useful tourist office. They are in charge of coordinating the different associations of accredited guides and of fixing the prices of the expeditions (so you are sure to get a fair price if you go through them). Several walks are proposed to discover the area, through Echo Valley, the hanging coffins, the underground river and the Bokong waterfalls. It is also here that you will pay the environment tax when you arrive (50 PHP).

The tourist office in Manila isn't exactly a mine of information, but they may be able to help if you have a specific question. You shouldn't expect much help in organizing your trip. However, it may be worthwhile to take a look at the various websites of the Philippine Department of Tourism to keep abreast of events throughout the year and tourism news at the time of your visit, or even ideas for things to do or see in the capital.

Alaminos City Hall is the city hall located in Alaminos, Philippines. Alaminos is a city with many tourist attractions, including the Hundred Islands National Park, a natural wonder not to be missed. In addition to this, the city also offers other interesting sights. For those wishing to stay in Alaminos, there is a list of accommodation available, as well as a list of restaurants and banks. In case of emergency, there are also emergency numbers available.

It is located in the Rizal Park. And it is the favorite museum of children. It is composed of eight themed rooms that show the works of Filipino artists, replica boats, churches and miniature houses, jungle replica. The museum regularly organizes activities for children during weekends such as puppet shows, storytelling, and other creative workshops. In short, many recreational activities to learn more about Filipino traditions and customs while having fun.

In the district of San Miguel, on the right bank of the Pasig River, stands Malacañang Palace, a grand colonial-style mansion completed in 1802. Spanish nobles, Manila governors, American governors and finally some of the Philippine presidents have successively resided here after the Governor's Palace in Intramuros was destroyed by the 1863 earthquake. Today it is still officially the main residence and workplace of the President of the Philippines, although in reality, not all of them have lived there.

It provides an insight into the history, culture, music, arts and crafts of Palawan and its people. Indeed, more than eighty different ethnic groups live in Palawan, each with their own unique customs and ways of life. There are also exhibits of archaeological, geological and ethnological collections. You can see jars and porcelain, prehistoric tools, artifacts found in the Tabon Caves and Spanish era antiquities found near Cuyo.

If there is one place you would not expect to find in the middle of the urban jungle that is Quezon City, it is a huge protected park of 24 hectares and yet there is one! This zoological and botanical garden next to the Quezon memorial will arouse the interest of nature lovers: confiscated or injured wild animals are taken care of there. There is also a playground for children. The park is very popular with families for picnics.

Nemiranda, born in 1949, is one of the great contemporary Filipino painters. His works focus on his country's culture and local legends. At the University of Santo Tomas in Manila, he was awarded first prize for painting in 1970 and took part in some fifty international exhibitions (in Italy, the United States, UNESCO and Galeries Lafayette during Cory Aquino's visit to France in 1989). He has also held several solo exhibitions. In 1975, he founded the Centre culturel d'Art visuel and multiplied his initiatives to promote and disseminate the teaching of painting. A fervent defender of the family and traditional values, he passes on his knowledge to his many children, who follow in their father's footsteps with brio. His work consists of wall sculptures on wood, depicting historical events. Realistic paintings, revealing his sharp, critical eye, depict traditional and religious Filipino life. Daily chores in the fields or at home are at the heart of his figurative work. The way of life of Mindanao's minorities is another of Nemiranda's favorite themes. Edsa Cathedral is decorated with his frescoes. Little by little, he has transformed his home into an art center, built entirely from natural materials. It's a school, a studio and a meeting place for artists. Works are for sale. There's also a café serving local dishes. The place is quiet and pleasant. A pleasant visit.

The memorial is located in the center of the island and is the highest point of the island. It was built in 1968 by the Americans as a tribute to the Filipino and American soldiers of the Second World War. Up there, there is also a small museum, a kind of reconstructed barracks that houses war memorabilia. It is a place full of history that will interest those who wish to learn more about the World War II period in the Philippines.

The Bubbles site is quite original. Here, one does not come to admire the corals or colored fishes but more to observe an interesting natural phenomenon, that of hot air bubbles coming out of the sandy ground. They come from the volcanic activity of the ground which is very hot in some places. The spot is also regularly visited by rays, groupers and turtles. Not far away, Secret Bay is one of Anilao's must-sees, and is home to rare and colorful creatures, fascinating to observe, even during night dives.

It is the largest and highest island in the archipelago of Bacuit, with a peak of 600 m. It hides a lagoon behind its lush vegetation. it is a place known for snorkeling. A confetti that looks like paradise.

It is a well-known diving site of the marine reserve of Anilao. The particularity of this diving site is that a big cross (blessed by Pope John Paul II) was installed there in 1983 at the request of President Ramos, it is coiled between two big rocks, which can make think of a cathedral. Corals, gorgonians and fishes are numerous: for good reason, divers can practice fishfeeding there. The site is accessible to beginners and it is even possible to do night dives.

A very beautiful site located 20 km north of Legazpi, in the municipality of Malilipot. The Busay waterfall is actually multiple, since there are no less than seven falls for a total of 243 meters. The biggest one is 91 meters long, and they flow in steps into small pools of water. On site, a parking lot and picnic areas, the place is very popular with locals on weekends. If the water is rather cold, it is still pleasant to swim there.

Covering 690 hectares of forests and hills, this former U.S. military base has become a recreational center open to the public, with hotels, restaurants, shopping center, a famous golf course, tennis courts, bowling, swimming pool and race track. But also, a butterfly sanctuary, eco-trail in the forest, abseiling, paintball, zip line park... The list is long and gives you an idea of what you can do here, especially with children.

One of the largest beaches in the region. The sand is grey and the waters are crystal clear. Some small resorts have settled to accommodate the few tourists.

This is a beautiful beach, surrounded by mountains covered with greenery, a bit off the beaten track, and can be reached by a 20-minute drive from Pundaquit. It is a beautiful cove, perfect for fishing, snorkeling or just enjoying the beach. The best time to go there is in the late afternoon: the light on the China Sea is then the most beautiful. There are possibilities to do some hiking and to camp and spend the night under the stars on the beach.

The Ayala Museum, which has existed since 1974, was renovated in 2019. It is one of the most beautiful museums in the city. Among its collections, acquired over the years, are mainly archaeology, history, fine arts and iconography. Through its various galleries and exhibitions, one travels through the history and culture of the Philippines from the pre-colonial era to the Second World War and the great voyages. Exhibitions dedicated to particular artists or themes are regularly organized. What to see.

It is commonly known as Pagsanjan Falls, named after the village downstream, but it is also known locally as Magdapio Falls. Depending on your desires, abilities and budget, there are several options to discover these incredible falls, among the most famous in the Philippines. The most common option is to go up the rapids by banca (the Filipino dugout canoe) from the village until you reach the main waterfall where the water falls 120 meters high (it's the equivalent of a 40-story building!). The boatmen take you up the river by pushing the boat through the rapids with uncommon agility. At the end of one hour, one hour and half, we reach the big waterfall. Impressive. And behind this one: the cave of the Devil and a big natural swimming pool. A supplement of about 100 PHP is then asked to have the privilege to pass under the waterfall in dugout. Don't miss this fun experience, it is even possible to take a bath (refreshing!). A tip to the boatmen/guides is more than welcome. Beware, however, that the climb is not feasible in all seasons - if there is little or too much water, the boats do not pass and it is impossible to reach the big waterfall. The other option, cheaper but more sportive, is to go on foot with a guide and safety equipment. Be careful, there is a vertical rappel for 20 minutes.

Smart tip: we recommend to do the visit during the week and early in the morning to avoid the crowd.

It serves as a shelter for boats during inclement weather. The bay is very colourful with all the bancas on the beach.

Its name comes from that of a plant of very abundant mangroves once. The U.S. submarines used to stand here to unload their weapons.

In this workshop, local craftsmen combine different materials with tinagudan, a quality of local thread, to make beautiful blankets.

Ivana is located 14 km south of Basco. Dedicated to St. Joseph, this Catholic church was built in 1775 and is a testament to the craftsmanship of the Spanish and Filipinos. Its white façade was restored after being damaged by the earthquake of 2000. It is also in Ivana that you can see the House of Dakay, the oldest house in Batanes, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its former janitor, Lola Idan, remained famous for being one of the most photographed personalities of the archipelago, until her death in 2014.

The church was built in 1819. Volcanic stones were used to build it. The church was restored between 1971 and 1975 by the architects Francisco Mañosa and Ludwig Alvarez. It is famous for housing a unique bamboo organ: a masterpiece made of wood and bamboo that according to experts produces a unique sound that cannot be matched by any instrument in the world. This 5 meter high organ was built by the Spanish father Diego Cera who used 832 bamboo pipes and 122 metal pipes. Construction began in 1816 and was completed in 1824.

Founded in 1586, it is very popular. This church was originally built in bamboo and nipa by Franciscan missionaries. Its current structure dates from 1930. It is known throughout the country for the celebration of the Black Nazarene, a statue of Christ that is said to perform miracles. The festival is attended by millions of people every year. The Quiapo district, one of the oldest in Manila, is also inhabited by a large Muslim population, hence the presence of the Great Golden Mosque and the Green Mosque.

It was built in the ^16th century and rebuilt in the ^19th. It is a building of Muslim and Baroque architecture and is one of the oldest churches outside the walled city. It was founded by Augustinian monks in honor of Nuestra Señora de los Remedios. Even today, mothers of sick children come to implore Our Lady of the Remedios and light candles for their children. In 2023, the church, which is over 400 years old, was declared a "cultural asset of significance" by the National Museum of the Philippines.

This church is a mixture of Romanesque and Baroque architecture. It was built in 1773 with volcanic stones by Franciscan missionaries. From the top of the hill, it dominates Daraga. Its impressive facade of volcanic rock is covered with priceless religious sculptures and was originally completely black. To get there, you can take one of the many jeepneys coming from Legazpi. From the parking lot, you can enjoy a beautiful view of the Mayon volcano and its surroundings. Quick but interesting visit.

Built around 1596 by Dominican friars, it is a perfect example of Spanish colonial architecture. It was severely damaged during the Second World War, but was restored in 1972. Only a few foundations and the octagonal tower of the bell tower are reminiscent of the original structure. This church located in the heart of Binondo district has a special importance in the Catholic history of the country since San Lorenzo Ruiz, the first Filipino saint canonized in 1987, was formed here. Both the church and the plaza are named after him.

It was built in 1590, then renovated in 1950 after an earthquake. It is famous for its architecture mixing neo-Gothic and Romanesque styles. Its bell tower or belfry, located on a hillock, was used as an observatory during the war(bantay means "to keep"). You can climb up (94 steps) to enjoy a beautiful view of Vigan and the South China Sea in the distance. There are five bells of different sizes; each one was rung during various events: mass, wedding, baptism, burial or warning of approaching enemies.

It is called the island of romance for its perfect beach, idyllic sunsets and colourful marine life along the coral reef.

Seen from the sky, it looks like a louche; it is one of the pleasant stops during navigation between islands of the archipelago. It is also a popular spot for divers.

The weaving room of this school built in 1905 by Protestant missionaries, in the north of the city, is the best showcase of the handicrafts of the region. You can see the weaving as it has been practiced by the mountain people for centuries. EWRI is committed to promoting indigenous art, especially Igorot art and weaving. The company also offers other local handicrafts such as wooden sculptures and rattan baskets.

Also known as "Heroes Hill". It offers a magnificent view of the China Sea.

These large waterfalls are located at a rather arduous one-hour walk from the rice fields of Batad: do not go in flip-flops (even if they should be useful for walking in the water once you arrive!). The Tappiya waterfall flows into a huge natural pool surrounded by cliffs covered with tropical vegetation. It is very pleasant to bathe there after the walk. The place is magical. During the rainy season, the water can rise up to 2 meters; but during the dry season, you will have only a trickle of water in the river.

Port Barton is surrounded by several waterfalls, including Pamuayan. With a height of 8 meters, it flows into a basin where it is possible to swim (the water is quite cold). The access to the latter requires an hour and a half walk to the north of Port Barton (you can ask one of the villagers to be your guide); otherwise opt to go there by motorcycle or scooter in 20 minutes. A nice excursion in the middle of nature, where you won't meet many people. Remember to take a picnic.

These beautiful waterfalls are located about an hour's drive from Legazpi, in the town of Malinao, at the foot of Mount Malinao. The main waterfall, 25 meters high, is of great beauty, as are the mini waterfalls that flow from it. The water in the basin, about 2 meters deep, is quite refreshing but pleasant for a short swim. The place is still very peaceful although it is one of the most beautiful spots in the Albay area.

The 14-meter high Daranak waterfalls, surrounded by enchanting nature, are known for their beauty and regularly attract local film and commercial shoots. The place is also popular for picnics. A small bamboo bridge leads the visitor to other smaller waterfalls. Not far from there are the Batlag Falls, equally beautiful, but even more wild. The vegetation surrounding them is magnificent.

It is an important place of remembrance and history and quite overwhelming in its grandeur. It is the cemetery where the majority of American soldiers who lost their sight during World War II, either during the operation in New Guinea or in the Philippines, are buried. In total, there are over 16,000 graves of American soldiers and 500 of Filipino soldiers. The graves are arranged in several arcs. Maps and panels of the war are engraved on the walls recalling the facts, as well as the names of the thousands of missing American soldiers.