Things to see and do Luzon

15 km from downtown, a prison without bars, like the one in Palawan, near Puerto Princesa, is open to visitors. The prisoners are given a piece of land that they cultivate as a family. Their handicraft activity allows them to work with wood and rattan. The products made are sold in the region. On the spot, it is possible to make hikes in the forest with a prisoner who is also a guide. An amazing experience that can go beyond simple curiosity and become a real encounter.

Please note that to make reservations (required only in April and June), it is advisable to contact the PAC Complex.

Some quite sporty walks can be done on the heights of Sablayan, through Mount Iglit and Mount Baco. Classified as a national park, this area is an important reserve (northwest of Mount Iglit) that is home to the Alangan community, another Mangyan tribe, and various animal and plant species, including the tamaraw, a rather aggressive and tricky-to-approach wild buffalo (cousin of the docile carabao) that is found only in Mindoro.

After a 15-minute walk or a short ride on a tricycle, we reach the top of the Naidi hills where a lighthouse, 20 meters high, offers a 360° view of the town of Basco, the sea, Mount Iraya and the cliffs of the island. The lighthouse served as a base for American telegraphs during the Japanese occupation. In 1941, the lighthouse was bombed and it was only rebuilt in 2003. The site with the ruins of the old lighthouse is still accessible. At sunset, the view is breathtaking.

It is one of the most beautiful dive sites in the area. Sombrero Island takes its name from the shape of the island, which looks like a hat. On full moon days, the current can be violent. But it is also one of the best spots for underwater macro photography, as many clown fishes live there, in the middle of giant sponges and colorful corals and gorgonians. Not to forget the turtles and the rays. The spot is huge and is accessible to divers of all levels, even snorkeling.

The forts of San Andres and Santiago dominate the city. They were built in 1650 to face the invasions of the pirates, the Moros and the Dutch. Like the Cathedral of St. Joseph, almost in front of the Romblon School, not far from the main square, both forts were built with blocks of coral. The altar of the cathedral, dating from the ^15th century, is Byzantine. It houses a collection of icons and ancient religious paintings.

The hot springs in the village of Mainit(mainit means "hot" in Tagalog), on the heights of Bontoc, are a pleasant expedition, off the beaten track. Legend has it that the village of Mainit is located on a dormant volcano. There are several hot springs and the inhabitants have built artificial pools to enjoy them. You can dip your feet in the pool of sulphur water, which is known for its therapeutic and relaxing properties.

Following the signs to access the hiking trails, we cross the Poyuy Poyuy River, from which it is possible to visit the mangrove in a small boat with a park guide who can give you information on the important role of mangroves for the preservation of the entire ecosystem. Count 45 minutes of navigation and go preferably in the early morning (not later than 9 am) to observe the birds and other species of the natural park. Don't forget your mosquito repellent.

At 31 meters high, it is the highest waterfall in the province, in Vilaflor, on the road that leads to Calapan (15 km from downtown Puerto Galera). This series of small waterfalls flows into a natural pool where a bath is very invigorating. The environment and the views are worth the detour, especially during the week when the place is deserted. The falls are named after the tamaraw, the iconic dwarf buffalo endemic to Mindoro Island. It is highly threatened with extinction, today only a few hundred individuals remain.

It offers a well-located beach near a reef suitable for snorkeling. In the north-west of the island lies the picturesque bay of Binangculan, with its green beach. It is one of the best diving sites around El Nido. Turtles and barracuda often show it.

The beaches are confined to the west of the island. Some of them are equipped with very quiet and charming resorts, in a traditional style. Small hotels are gradually being built. The most popular beaches are located after San Pedro, like Ginablan. The most beautiful beach of Romblon, Bon Bon Beach, stretches like a ribbon of sand in the middle of crystal clear waters, it is magnificent, with its immaculate white sand. Very little frequented because of its isolation, it is located back from the road, about 3 km from downtown (barangay Suwa).

Sabang beach is the ideal spot for snorkeling and nightlife lovers with its many bars. The bancas are numerous and hinder a bit the swimming. At low tide, the boats are stranded on the reef and the seaweed cover the beach; it nevertheless regains some of its charm at high tide. Its main asset remains its coral bottom and its multitude of colored fish.

It can be pleasant to take the road that, crossing a beautiful palm grove, leads to Escarceo Point, 2 km east of Sabang where there is an abandoned lighthouse of 14 m, from where you can admire a magnificent panorama, especially at sunrise and sunset. You should follow the road from the market and do not hesitate to ask the locals for the direction of the lighthouse.

From Sabang, it is easy to walk to Small La Laguna, then Big La Laguna along the sea towards the east and over the dykes (10 to 20 minutes, avoiding the trip at high tide). These two beaches are quieter and suitable for snorkeling. However,Aninuan beach is the most peaceful.

7 km west of Puerto Galera is the famous WhiteBeach, the most beautiful in the region. Very popular, it is taken by storm by Filipinos in high season (April-June). It becomes more interesting out of season, despite the many resorts built along the beach. The secluded beach of Talipanan, 30 minutes away, is very quiet and pleasant, you will pass by the Mangyan village to get there.

Formerly a manufacturing plant for the famous Jeepneys, the number one public transport in the Philippines. Sarao converted the American GIs' Jeeps left behind after the war and became the largest Jeepney factory in the country. Even though production is over today, the factory has become a repair shop, open to visitors and artists continue to shape the bodies into works of art. For the anecdote, Jeepney would come from jeep-knee because when you are in a Jeepney, yourknees always touch those of the neighbors.

Cagsawa is one of the best places to see the Mayon volcano. The ruins of this ^16th century baroque church are a reminder of the volcano's biggest eruption, which occurred on February^1, 1814, killing 1,200 people. It destroyed the villages of Cagsawa, Camalig and Budiao, covering them with a thick layer of ash and lava, washing away everything in its path. Many souvenir stores surround the site and distort it a little and the ruins are not very well preserved. However it remains a rare and interesting place of history.

In the northwest of Luzon, the province of Pangasinan is home to a string of 123 islands scattered in the Gulf of Lingayen. The erosion of the waves at the base of each of these confetti gave them a shape of turtle shell or mushroom. These islands represent the vast natural marine park named Hundred Islands and cover an area of 17 ^km2. It was classified as a national park in 1974 (the first in the Philippines!). It is pleasant to sail between the islets: the water becomes clearer as you move away from the coast, but you should not expect beautiful turquoise waters like those found in the Visayas archipelago. Snorkeling remains pleasant although dynamite fishing has damaged a large part of the corals. Here are the main islands of the site:

Marcos Island: nice beach, turquoise water, ideal for swimming.

Governor Island : there is a superb view of Hundred Islands. There is also a guesthouse.

Quezon Island: this island is worth a visit. There are pavilions and barbecues for picnicking or spending the night. Don't forget to bring your snorkeling equipment to explore the beautiful giant clams(taklobo) which are located at 30 meters on the eastern side of Quezon Island. Hundreds of them, more or less open, are visible at a depth of 3 meters. The Institute of Marine Sciences protects these giant shells threatened by the dynamite used by fishermen in the area.

Children's Island: this island, adapted to children (sand and calm water) offers picnic tables, huts and tents to spend the night. It is necessary to stock up on food because there is no restaurant. Barbecues are available.

Organization of the day. You have the choice between taking a regular boat that will take you to three islands (two that can be visited in about fifteen minutes and a third where you can spend more time) or taking a service boat (a little more expensive) but you can visit the islands of your choice. In any case, it is necessary to agree with the boat driver on the program of the day if you want to do snorkeling (equipment rental, 250 PHP), swimming at the edge of beautiful beaches... You can also rent tandem kayaks (250 PHP), or try one of the zip lines (250 PHP).

Tourist office. It is located on the left side of the Lucap pier. You can get practical information and rent a boat.

Agong is located 18 km from Bulalacao and has about 50 Hanuno families. They make soft bamboo baskets decorated with geometric designs, which are among the most beautiful in the Philippines. Ask for a guide at the town hall or the convent in Bulalacao. A member of the tribe, who has gone shopping in town, can accompany you. Volunteers are working hard to preserve the customs of the tribe while making life easier for them. The education of the children is one of the priorities and a school has been created in Agong.

It was the headquarters of the Philippine government in exile of Manuel Quezon but also of General MacArthur. Completed in 1922, the main tunnel is 250 meters long and 7 meters wide, with twenty smaller tunnels attached to the left and right. It was later equipped to serve as an underground war hospital, with over 1,000 beds. Cannons and other installations as well as military equipment are on display to the public. Night tours are possible, and there are occasional sound and light shows.

It is one of the oldest and most popular resorts in the country. In addition to staying there, you can also come for a day trip to visit this strange museum that looks like a pink church and houses a huge collection of antiques, sail on the river on bamboo rafts, ride a bike or enjoy the pool. Don't miss lunch at Labasin, the restaurant where you can eat a traditional Filipino boodle fight, with your feet in the water beside a beautiful waterfall.

Part interactive museum, part amusement park, Art in Island opened in 2014 and has been delighting kids (and anyone else who's kept their childlike spirit) ever since. It's also called the selfie museum, so that sets the tone. Inside, on 4,000^m2, dozens of murals that play on optical illusions to create 3D scenes in which visitors immerse themselves. Finding yourself in the mouth of a tyrannosaurus or on a footbridge suspended in the void, it's a bit kitschy but also very funny!

Opened in the heart of Makati in 2005, the Yuchengco Museum was originally envisioned to house the art collections of Philippine Ambassador to the United Nations Alfonso Yuchengco, a businessman, collector, philanthropist, and advocate of education in the Philippines who passed away in 2017. Today, one comes here to explore the country's history through its arts and artists like the famous painter and muralist Botong Francisco. You can find postcards, catalogs and other products around the exhibitions in the museum store.

More than forty islands are scattered in the bay of Bacuit, all more marvelous than the others, hiding in their lands and in their sea beds secrets never before revealed, a rich endemic fauna and a luxuriant flora. Here are some of these natural gems to discover:

Cadlao Island. It is the largest and highest island of the Bacuit archipelago, with a peak reaching 640 meters. It hides a lagoon behind its lush vegetation; it is a place known for snorkeling and diving. A confetti that looks like paradise.

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

Entalula Island. It is called "the island of romance" for its perfect beach, idyllic sunrises and colorful marine life along the coral reef.

Lagen Island. Its rich forest and splendid view of El Nido's sunsets characterize it. Lagen Island is home to a trail that leads from one side of the island to the other: you can see monitor lizards, macaques and snakes! It is also an island where majestic hornbills land.

Malapacao Island. It is considered as a real paradise. Two huge rocks stand guard on each side of the island, crowned with palm trees and tropical plants that adorn a beautiful beach.

Matinloc Island (Goddess Island). It has many small bays along its coral-lined coastline, including Calmung Bay in the east. There are good snorkeling spots all along the coast. You can also venture to Secret Beach, a beach that can only be reached by swimming through a hole in the cliff: be careful with the rising water. Very nice view on El Nido from the heights.

Miniloc Island. Its deeply indented coastline leads to remarkable inner lagoons, often accessible only by boat. The famous Small Lagoon can only be reached by swimming or kayaking. You are surrounded by cliffs dotted with vegetation while swimming in waters of almost supernatural colors. The entrance to the Big Lagoon is very impressive: the waters being very shallow, once inside, the depth gives this time a deep green color to this circle surrounded by cliffs. It is a must-see.

Pangalusian Island. This island offers the visitor a short walk to reach a beautiful viewpoint. Bird watching is best done early in the morning or late in the day. The beach is ideal for sunbathing and it is a good area for snorkeling.

Pinagbuyutan Island. Its coral gardens are among the most beautiful in Palawan and make it a favorite destination for divers. In the mysterious Neptune's Palace cave on the west side of the island, stalagmites and stalactites are found along with other strange formations.

Pinasil Island. The main feature of this mushroom-shaped island is its cave, which turns into a cathedral and is sometimes illuminated through its pierced nave.

Tapiutan Island. It has a well located beach near a reef suitable for snorkeling. In the northwest of the island is the picturesque Binangculan Bay, with its beach lined with greenery. This is one of the best dive sites in El Nido. Turtles and barracudas are often seen here.

It offers banca tours to follow the river (100 P per person). Unfortunately, the river is getting dirtier and dirtier because of the villages that border it and the tour is not really interesting.

This pottery factory inherited the name Pagburnayan (steel jar) because the jars it produces are as hard as metal and sound the same when knocked. The manufacturing process is simple: a mixture of sand, clay and water is obtained after 4 hours of trampling with a carabao (buffalo); the mud is sculpted and then left to dry for a week in the fresh air. The pots are fired for 24 hours in a large kiln of 50 m length. You can visit the workshop, buy clay items and even try your hand at making them.

This walk proposed by the tourist office is a real delight! The program includes a three-hour walk through Echo Valley, suspended coffins, the underground river and the Bokong waterfalls.

This beautiful church was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1993. It was built in the ^18th century in an "earthquake baroque" style, with gothic and Chinese influences, with bricks and coral held together by mortar and sugar cane juice (the walls are 1.67 m thick). It was used as an observation post during the revolution against the Spanish and against the Japanese during the Second World War. In 2000, an excavation brought to light a prehistoric human skeleton and fragments of ceramics.

It is the largest church in the region of Ilocos (137 m long). Built between 1669 and 1679 in an "earthquake baroque" style (separate bell tower), it is made of brick and has a bridge that connects it to the nearby convent. The Spaniards tortured Filipino rebels here, as did the Japanese during World War II. Irene Marcos, daughter of former dictator Marcos, restored the complex on the occasion of her wedding in 1983. However, an earthquake destroyed it again. It was restored again.

Laoag Cathedral was built in 1580 and restored around 1880 after earthquakes, fire and typhoons. Its 45 meters tower built by the Augustinian fathers in 1612, it is of "earthquake baroque" style. The bell tower has six bells of different sizes. The ancients say that in the past you could enter with a horse: today, even a man of average height has to bend down to enter the tower. Today, even an average-sized man has to bend down to enter the tower, which sinks into the soft earth, hence the name it was given, "sinking bell tower".

On the east coast, in the village of Ibajay, on the road to Sibaltan, it takes about 45 minutes by scooter. The road to get there is a bit rocky. The Ille Cave has a special historical significance since archaeologists discovered animal bones, pottery and tools that attest to a human presence on Palawan 12,000 years ago. The cave is open to the public and can be reached via a challenging path accompanied by a guide who knows the area and will give you the necessary explanations.

This 97,000-hectare marine park was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1993 and has since become a natural sanctuary under high protection. Located 180 km from Puerto Princesa in the Sulu Sea, it is, according to specialists, the ultimate in diving in the Philippines, and one of the most beautiful spots in the world. Captain Cousteau used to say that it was one of the most beautiful places he had seen. Totally uninhabited, except for a few coastguards, divers can only go there from mid-March to mid-June when the weather conditions are good (one must also be aware of the risks involved in such an expedition in such an isolated place. In April 2023, for example, a ship of divers was wrecked there). Traditionally, the boats leave Puerto Princesa in the evening to arrive in the early morning and they stay 5 days on the spot. It is necessary to count about 10 000 PHP per day (all included), plus 5 000 PHP of entrance fee per day. Underwater, we find ourselves in front of vertiginous reefs like underwater mountains, with a visibility that can reach 30 to 45 meters. The site is covered with 75% of splendid corals. More than 1,200 species, many of them endangered, live in these waters, such as manta rays and turtles, dolphins, whale sharks and grey sharks by the hundreds. It is definitely one of the most majestic diving spots in the country and even in the world.

It is 1 hour south of Vigan. It is one of the most famous baroque churches in the Philippines and has been listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Built at the end of the ^18th century, it was used as a fortress during the Philippine revolution of 1896. It belongs to the architectural movement that characterizes Philippine churches of the colonial era, the tremor baroque. Faced with earthquakes, the churches were built lower, with thick walls of clay and mortar and the bell tower often set apart.

Located in Tiwi, a little more than an hour from Legazpi, Putsan beach is the origin of the ceramic and pottery industry of the Bicol region that is still active today. This beach is actually made up of volcanic sands, used to make red clay and contrasting with the white sand beaches. By the way, go to the PhilCeramics center in Putsan where you can watch the potters at work and why not buy some ceramics. A nice excursion if you are radiating in the area.

Stopping on Quezon is part of the traditional tour of Bateaux boats. This island deserves to be looked at. There are pavilions and barbecues installed for picnic or for a night. Before leaving the wharf of Lucap, we have to equip ourselves with proper snorkeling equipment, because the water is not very clear and the few rental facilities on the island are not in good condition, in order to explore the splendid cultures of giant giant giant giant clams located 30 m away from the east side of Quezon Island. Hundreds, more or less open, are spread, visible about 3 m deep. The Institute of Marine Sciences protects these giant shells threatened by dynamite used by fishermen in the area.

The beautiful white sand beaches licked by turquoise waters offer superb views from morning until sunset. San Salvador Island is famous among tourists (especially locals) for the beauty of its transparent and shallow waters in which it is easy to dive with just a mask and snorkel. The island's seabed and marine biodiversity had been severely damaged by pollution, but the locals took action and today the island is a coral farm and the seabed is protected.

Capones Island is famous for being surrounded by beautiful white sand beaches, on which strange rock formations are piled up. There are also beaches of the same type in caves, but their exploration is reserved only for experienced divers. The other asset of Capones Island is its underwater life, where fishes live side by side with beautiful coral reefs. You can come here for snorkeling or diving and on land, it is also possible to make some hikes, especially to the lighthouse (not accessible).

This island offers picnic tables, cottages (600 P) and pavilions (1000 P) to spend the night on site. You have to stock up because there is no restaurant. Barbecues are provided for grilling.

It is equipped with a generator to feed the guesthouse that can accommodate eight people. It is composed of two bedrooms, a living room and a kitchen.

Places not to be missed for lovers of white sand beaches.

Black world in summer. It is invaded by many tourists, both foreign and Filipino, who enjoy the crystal clear waters of this beach.

The Metropolitan Museum of Manila is one of the most important museums in the capital. It is the first museum in the Philippines to exhibit contemporary art. Located in Malate for 45 years, it moved in 2021 to the new trendy district of Bonifacio Global City. The institution is committed to showcasing contemporary Filipino artists and bringing them into dialogue with international artists. Their credo is art accessible to all. Rich programming online.

The "Boulevard", as it is called in Legazpi, is in fact the city's waterfront. There is a promenade to walk along and several restaurants and bars. It is more fun and lively at the end of the day or in the evening than during the day. When the view is clear, it is from the Boulevard that you get the famous postcard view of Legazpi, the sea and the Mayon volcano in the background. At the beginning of the Boulevard, Victory Village, a fishing village that squats on public land without authorization, attracts the curiosity of some travelers who go to visit it...

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.

The village of Buscalan is famous among Filipinos and international travelers as it is the homeland of tattoo artist Apo Whang-Od. A true legend in the country, she was even on the cover of Vogue in April 2023! She belongs to the Kalinga tribe and is the last and oldest traditional tattoo artist. At the time of writing, she is 107 years old. She still tattoos with a pick and ash. A beautiful souvenir for the most adventurous, a unique experience for the others too!

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!

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.

This prison is without bars and based on trust, where inmates work and live in community. On this 26,000-acre prison farm, 2,400 inmates grow rice. Others make handmade bags and souvenirs that visitors are invited to buy. Some are even allowed to live in houses with their families. Do not hesitate to ask a prisoner to guide you. An unusual experience that may be of interest to some.

Old Manila Walks has been in existence since 2005 and has established itself as the leading organizer of guided tours in the historic districts. The objective of the various expert guides is to promote Manila, its history and culture, to locals and tourists alike. They offer several tours of 2 to 4 hours including a guided tour of the historic Intramuros district, for the history buffs; a food tour in Chinatown, Binondo or an unusual visit to the Chinese Cemetery. You will never see Manila in the same way again!

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.