Fun Things to Do in the Philippines
Dreaming of an exotic getaway? Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of the Philippines! Explore ancient rice terraces, stunning beaches, and hidden waterfalls. From the Chocolate Hills to vibrant festivals, experience unique adventures like canyoneering and exploring ancient burial rituals. Uncover the wonders of this island paradise. Start planning your unforgettable Philippine adventure today!
Important information
- The Banaue Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are over 2,000 years old and a testament to human ingenuity.
- The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park features a remarkable underground river flowing through caves into the sea.
- Boracay Island is a popular beach destination known for white sand, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.
- The Chocolate Hills of Bohol are a unique geological formation of over 1,000 cone-shaped hills.
- Intramuros, Manila’s historic walled city, showcases Spanish colonial architecture and landmarks like Fort Santiago.
Top Attractions in the Philippines
Discover the wonders of the Philippines, from ancient marvels to breathtaking natural beauty. Explore the Banaue Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and witness human ingenuity at its finest. Journey to the Chocolate Hills of Bohol and marvel at over 1,000 cone-shaped hills. Bask on the white sands of Boracay, famed for its vibrant nightlife. Delve into history within the Spanish colonial architecture of Intramuros in Manila. Experience the unforgettable Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, another UNESCO site, and explore its remarkable underground river.
Chocolate Hills: A Geological Anomaly
The Chocolate Hills of Bohol, Philippines, are a remarkable geological formation. These symmetrical, grass-covered mounds transform into a striking chocolate-brown during the dry season, hence their name. Numbering at least 1,260, they spread across over 50 square kilometers, creating a truly breathtaking vista.
Puerto Princesa Underground River: A New Wonder of Nature
The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to a remarkable underground river that flows through a stunning cave system directly into the sea. Imagine breathtaking limestone karst formations within this unique ecosystem. The park also teems with diverse flora and fauna, including bats, monkeys, and a variety of bird species.
Banaue Rice Terraces: Ancient Engineering Marvel
Carved into the mountains by the Ifugao people over 2,000 years ago, the Banaue Rice Terraces stand as a UNESCO World Heritage site, a remarkable testament to human ingenuity.
Boracay: Popular Beach Destination
Boracay is famous for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, making it a top beach destination. The pristine waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Beyond the beach, Boracay offers a vibrant nightlife.
Intramuros: Historical Walled District
Journey back in time within Manila’s Intramuros, a historic walled city. Explore stunning Spanish colonial architecture and landmarks such as Fort Santiago and the must-see San Agustin Church.
Unusual and Hidden Attractions in the Philippines
In Sagada, Mountain Province, the deceased are placed in coffins and hung on cliffs, a centuries-old burial ritual.
The Hinatuan Enchanted River in Surigao del Sur, renowned for its clear, deep blue waters, flows to the Pacific Ocean, watched over by protective spirits according to local belief.
Hanging Coffins of Sagada
The Igorot people of Sagada observe a unique burial ritual of placing coffins on cliffsides. This practice reflects their profound spiritual connection to their ancestral lands.
Enchanted River
Nestled in Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur, Philippines, the Enchanted River mesmerizes with its
Adventure Tourism and Outdoor Activities
Experience the thrill of canyoneering at Kawasan Falls, rappelling down cascading waterfalls and swimming in vibrant turquoise pools.
Island hop through El Nido, Palawan, discovering hidden lagoons, pristine beaches, and towering limestone cliffs.
For surfing enthusiasts, Siargao Island, the Surfing Capital of the Philippines, offers perfect waves for all skill levels.
Coron’s incredible snorkeling and diving reveal diverse marine life and fascinating WWII Japanese shipwrecks.
Complete your adventure with a hike up Taal Volcano, where unforgettable views of the crater lake await.
Canyoneering at Kawasan Falls
Experience the thrill of canyoneering in
Island-Hopping Adventures in El Nido
Discover El Nido’s hidden lagoons and pristine beaches, revealing stunning landscapes. Divers can explore fascinating shipwrecks and vibrant coral reefs. Kayaking through Bacuit Bay offers another unique adventure.
Surfing at Siargao: The Surfing Capital
Siargao, the surfing capital of the Philippines, draws surfers worldwide with its renowned waves. But beyond the surf, Siargao boasts a vibrant and energetic nightlife.
Snorkeling and Diving in Coron
Coron and Apo Island are renowned destinations for underwater adventures, especially snorkeling and diving. Explore captivating Japanese shipwrecks and thriving coral reefs teeming with vibrant marine biodiversity. These locations offer unforgettable underwater experiences for both snorkelers and divers.
Hiking Taal Volcano
Embark on an unforgettable adventure by hiking Taal Volcano, nestled within the stunning Taal Lake in Batangas, Philippines. The surrounding landscape offers breathtaking vistas, making the trek a truly memorable experience.
Natural Wonders and Wildlife
Water cascading directly from springs within the rock face makes Asik-Asik Falls a truly unique spectacle.
Nestled in Corella, the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary provides a vital haven for the endangered Philippine tarsier, a tiny primate.
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park teems with marine life, from diverse coral species to thriving populations of marine mammals and seabirds—a veritable underwater paradise.
Asik-Asik Falls
Nestled in Alamada, North Cotabato, Philippines, Asik-Asik Falls offers a serene escape. Water spills from springs embedded in the rock face, creating a stunning curtain of water. The falls are unique because the water doesn’t flow from a river above, but emerges directly from the cliffside, covered in lush vegetation. This unusual geological formation makes Asik-Asik a truly special destination.
Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary
Visit the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary and witness the world’s smallest primates in their natural habitat. Observe these tiny creatures in a unique and protected environment.
Tubbataha Reefs: Rich Marine Biodiversity
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its incredible marine biodiversity. Divers and snorkelers flock to the park to explore the vibrant coral reefs and encounter diverse fish species, including sharks. It’s a truly spectacular underwater world.
Cultural and Historical Experiences
Experience the Philippines, a vibrant tapestry of cultural and historical wonders. Witness the dazzling Sinulog Festival in Cebu or the equally captivating Ati-Atihan Festival in Aklan, where colorful parades and traditional music and dance ignite the streets. Explore the historic streets of Intramuros in Manila, uncovering the country’s rich colonial past. Connect with local artisans and indigenous communities to discover unique customs passed down through generations. Indulge in the must-try Filipino cuisine, savoring iconic dishes like adobo and lechon, adding a delicious dimension to your cultural journey.
Local Festivals: Sinulog, Ati-Atihan
Experience the vibrant energy of the Philippines during the third Sunday of January. Cebu City explodes with color and rhythm during Sinulog, a festival honoring the Santo Niño (Child Jesus). At the same time, Kalibo, Aklan, hosts the equally captivating Ati-Atihan festival. Imagine colorful costumes narrating stories of history and faith, combined with tribal dances and rhythmic drumming. Both Sinulog and Ati-Atihan offer a spectacular glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines.
Sinulog Festival
Cebu City, third Sunday of January, honoring the Santo Niño (Child Jesus).
Ati-Atihan Festival
Kalibo, Aklan, third Sunday of January, vibrant celebration of history and faith.
Unique Dining and Local Cuisine
Experience the diverse and delicious cuisine of the Philippines. From traditional favorites to unique dining adventures, there’s a culinary experience for every palate. Savor classic dishes like adobo, sinigang, and the iconic lechon (roasted pig). For a truly unforgettable experience, dine at the Labassin Waterfall Restaurant, where you can enjoy your meal at the base of a cascading waterfall. Street food enthusiasts can explore adventurous options like balut and isaw, or indulge in the sweet and refreshing halo-halo. For a communal dining experience, join a “boodle fight”—a feast where food is piled high on banana leaves and shared among friends and family.
Waterfalls Restaurant
Experience the unique Waterfalls Restaurant, where you can dine surrounded by the beauty of cascading waters and a stunning natural setting.
Must-Try Filipino Dishes: Adobo, Sinigang, Lechon
Adobo, a flavorful meat dish, typically features chicken or pork braised in a savory blend of vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and peppercorns.
Sinigang, a sour and savory soup, is known for its tangy broth, often made with tamarind. This soup usually includes meat like pork, beef, or seafood, along with a variety of vegetables.
Lechon, a whole roasted pig and a Filipino favorite, is often the centerpiece of celebrations. Its crispy skin and tender meat make it a truly special culinary experience.
Street Food Delights: Balut, Isaw, Halo-Halo
Philippine street food offers a unique culinary adventure, from fertilized duck eggs (balut) to grilled chicken intestines (isaw). For a sweet and refreshing experience, try halo-halo, a shaved ice dessert brimming with sweet beans, fruits, and milk. These delicacies provide a delicious glimpse into Filipino food culture.
