Whether you wish to hike up the beautiful mountains or dive into the deep ocean or appreciate the flora and fauna around you, the Philippines is the place for you. Relaxing at the white sand beaches of the Philippines has got to be on your bucket list. With a collection of more than 7,000 islands, this Asian land of natural wonders is bound to leave you captivated. Here is a list of 10 places you must visit to satisfy your nature loving spirit.
1) Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park
Visiting this place is a diver’s dream. The park abounds in diverse marine life, clear waters and lots of currents. There are more than a dozen diving spots around the park where you can explore healthy corals and pelagics, whale sharks, barracuda and tuna thrive. Non-divers can enjoy themselves looking at coral reefs by snorkeling or they can look at the sky to spot incredibly beautiful birds. Spend a day here making beautiful memories for the years to come.
2) Rice Terraces
The rice terraces are an evidence of the culture, tradition and ingenuity of the people who lived in Cordillera mountain range and constructed these terraces 2000 years ago out of necessity. Depending upon your time of visit, you could witness the planting or harvesting or when the fields are their greenest. It is advisable to not visit during the rainy seasons because of landslides and during festivals to avoid crowds.
3) Mount Hamiguitan World Heritage Park
The top of Mount Hamiguitan is not open to the public and is only accessible to scientists. However, you can spend your time experiencing the natural wonders of the mountain through the Mount Hamiguitan World Heritage Park. The park has a modern, interactive museum which provides information about the mountain’s pygmy forest which is a century old and about the species of plants and animals found there. The park covers an area of 12.84 hectare and also contains a research center, gardens, camping grounds, bird-watching deck and butterfly trails. You won’t regret spending your time here.
4) Santa Cruz Island
Located in the Southern part of the Philippines, Santa Cruz Island is a 15-30 minute boat ride from Zamboanga City. The place is open to about 200 visitors daily and offers them crystal clear waters, clean sand and picturesque views. Badjao cemetery and mangrove lagoon are the places that should not be missed. The major attraction of the island is its pinkish sand. A day should definitely be spent here during your visit to the Philippines.
5) Puerto Princesa Underground River
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Puerto Princesa Underground River has also been recognised as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. The tour is 45 minutes long and it will take you through the subterranean river system which is 8.2 kms long and ends directly in the sea. During your tour, you will spot incredible limestone karst and other rock formations like the ‘chapel’ which holds inside it the ‘holy family’.
6) Tinuy-an Falls
Surrounded by old vines, mossy trees, and ferns, Tinuy-an Falls is a miracle of nature. It is known as the ‘Niagara Falls of the Philippines’. Between 9 and 11 a.m., a rainbow appears in this location which is a sight to behold. At 95 meters, it is the widest waterfall in Mindanao. The best time to visit is from March to May, that is, during the hot dry season. To avoid the crowd, plan your visit during the weekdays. Prepare yourself for a ride in a habal habal which is a motorbike typically ridden by more than two people. Make sure to arrange a ride back. The beautiful place will make you wish that you lived nearby.
7) Bird Island Rock Formations
A number of small, rocky islands can be located at the place where San Bernardino Strait and the Pacific Ocean converge. The Biri Island Rock Formations have been there for a million of years facing the strong waves. The most popular islands amongst them are Bel-at and Manasan. The beauty of the region is unmatchable. To make the most out of your visit, plan it during low tide to be able explore the formations easily.
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8) Chocolate Hills
The stunning hills are associated with an old legend which says that the Chocolate Hills were a tear of a Giant when the love of his life died. Spanning an area of 50 square kilometers, the hills are composed of over a 1000 hills. The smallest are 30 meters high whereas the largest are 120 meters high. To understand why the hills are called so, visit during the dry season or if you wish to see the lush green hills, visit during the rainy season.
9) Donsol, Sorsogon
The place has the largest congregation of whale sharks in the world and therefore is mostly known amongst tourists and locals alike for the whale sharks found here. Apart from the whale sharks during their migration period, Donsol is home to a number of other species such as thresher and white tip sharks, pelagics and manta rays. If you wish to spot whale sharks, the best time to visit is during their migration period, that is from March to May. Donsol is also known for amazing diving spots such as Ticao and San Miguel islands. Visit between February and October for the best diving experience.
10) Mount Mayon
Located at a height of more than 2400 metres above sea level, Mount Mayon is a huge volcano looming over the plains of Albay which holds the town of Legazpi. You could choose to trek or rent an ATV to the top for a fascinating view of the paific ocean and the neighbouring towns. Mayon is an active volcano, so it’s advisable to check with the local authorities before planning your trip.
We have the best Philippines tour packages for you. Satisfy your nature loving soul with our packages. Leave the hassle of planning the best for you and enjoy a great vacation in Philippines.