25 Things To Do in The Philippines For The Ultimate Traveler

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philippines

kayangan view from mimathology

Located in Southeast Asia, The Philippine archipelago, composed of 7.107 islands is one of the world’s most recognized tourist destination. It is abundant with natural resources such as pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, untouched natural wonders, a wide array of beautiful islands and smoldering volcanoes. Additionally, it is home to friendly and hospitable locals with a variety of fun activities at respective tourist spots and unique yet appetizing cuisines. Along with its beauty are 25 things that you can do while enjoying a vacation at this magnificent country.

 

1.) Cliff Dive in Initao

 Jump jump, and away! from jeshurun flores

Jump jump, and away! from jeshurun flores

Bored of just viewing beautiful places and yearning for that experience of a lifetime? Want to be more adventurous by trying new things, exciting things? Then, go on a cliff diving trip to Initao! Adrenaline junkies love to visit this place not just for the thrilling experience but also for its cheap availability. The activity will barely cost you as much! You are only to pay for the entrance fee of 15PhP per person (much lesser than a cab fair) and get to dive for free! From the peak  of a four-story high cliff  into a 20-feet deep water, this is definitely the right fit for the adventurous traveler.

 

 

2.) White Water Raft in Cagayan de Oro City

 CDO- white river rafting from Raleene

CDO- white river rafting from Raleene

The Cagayan White Water Rafting experience have just recently made its mark in Philippine tourism.  Most celebrities, local and international, visit Cagayan de Oro to experience this thrilling activity. Its high rapids and clean waters satisfies an unforgettable moment of the typical adventurer/traveler. The activity starts at Dansolihon, a town 20 kilometers away from the city proper, down through the Cagayan River. Fear not as this outdoor activity will not be experienced by you alone. Guides are there to help and teach every tourist on how to maximize the ultimate experience. Whether you wish to try the rapids fit for amateurs or you get to pick the craziest rapids for the experts on the sport, this is surely one trip you will never forget.

 

 

3.) Swim with the whale sharks in Donsol

 Ben diving down to whale shark from vancouvergirl

Ben diving down to whale shark from vancouvergirl

Swimming with dolphins getting too mainstream for you? Then take a trip down to Donsol and swim with the whale sharks! You probably had doubts when you read that you’re going to swim with a shark. But, do not fret! Whale sharks are more like dolphins. They are friendly to humans and they will love your fascination in them. During the months of November through June, whale sharks meet at the Donsol area and stay in its waters for about six to seven months and feed on the richness of the Donsol river. You can swim with these creatures, take their pictures or even swerve as they swim through the waters.

 

 

4.) Explore Puerto Princesa’s Underground River

 We are well into the caves now from oldandsolo

We are well into the caves now from oldandsolo

Known as the longest crossable underground river in the world, not only is this a landmark locally, but also internationally. Remarkably, it is considered now as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. This pristine river is surrounded by a forest rich in wildlife. Its abundance in biodiversity have also caught many scientists’ interest.

 

 

5.) Party all night in Boracay

 Hed Kandi Event - Boracay, Philippines from whl.travel

Hed Kandi Event – Boracay, Philippines from whl.travel

As the most famous destination spot in the Philippines during the summer for its one of a kind beaches and resorts, Boracay has earned its party reputation. There are tons of choices to choose from! Whether you wish to party with a full band on the beach, a sing along style buffet restaurant, rave to the beat of a wide array of DJ’s, enjoy the performance of pyro-dancing or dance to the thumps of native instrument jams, Boracay’s party scene is definitely not one to sleep on! Bars serve tons of kinds of alcoholic, tropical or refreshing drinks set to make the typical traveler party his night out.

 

 

6.) Wake board in Camarines Sur

 Bye-bye, board from lizcab222

Bye-bye, board from lizcab222

Love the water sports? Then go wakeboarding in Cam Sur. It’s the most popular not just in the Philippines but also in Asia. It has been recognized as Asia’s Mecca of the immensely growing water sport. International competitions of the activity are held here for this 6-hectare area is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. There are also services offered here that include free basic and safety instruction on how to engage in the sport assisted by mentors and operators.

 

 

7.) Scuba Dive in Samal Island

 Breathtaking Samal from crazyacey

Breathtaking Samal from crazyacey

Samal is mostly known as the destination for island hopping and swimming. However, did you know that it is also the most preferred scuba diving spots in Mindanao? It is rich in marine life and is home to a wide array of tropical fishes that are sure to amaze you. Not only is it rich in beauty, it’s cheap to visit as well.

 

 

8.) View the Eighth Wonder of the World: Banaue Rice Terraces

 Mountain of Rice from Storm Crypt

Mountain of Rice from Storm Crypt

Banaue Rice Terraces has been internationally credited as the eight wonder of the world. It is considered as one of the human race’s greatest engineering achievement.  Its inhabitants are Ifugao tribes whose members carved out the hills into beautifully structured rice terraces of about 2000-3000 years ago. Until now, it’s still home to these tribes and are functionally used for rice planting still. Now ain’t that an exact replicate of the beauty of human’s labor! One may hike along the area, whether accompanied by guides, or touring alone would also suffice as the Ifugao people are very friendly to tourists.

 

 

9.) Massage yourself with water at Tinuy-an Falls

 Raging Paradise II from Oliver Mercader

Raging Paradise II from Oliver Mercader

Known as the “Niagra Falls of the Philippines”, Tinuy-an Falls is a 3-tiered, 95 meters wide waterfall located in Surigao. Unlike its close replicate, the beauty of this falls comes with the ability to actually live down in between the falls and have the flow of the water massage you. Just like another day in a spa, this unique experience shall likewise enthrall you with the surrounding untouched natural sights of the spot.

 

 

10.)  Island hop in El Nido, Palawan

 El Nido Palawan Big Lagoon from nennnn

El Nido Palawan Big Lagoon from nennnn

El Nido’s magnificent beauty is one every traveler should visit. It’s packed with islands and waters rich in marine life such as dolphins, sting rays, Dugong, Hawksbill turtles, whale sharks and tropical fishes. It is also home to lagoons where you may go boating or snorkeling. Situated in Palawan, this serene place will surely make you gaze in wonder.

 

 

11.) Bathe in the Ardent Hot Springs of Camiguin

Ardent Hot Spring from Storm Crypt

Ardent Hot Spring from Storm Crypt

Do you love that feeling of laying by the tub, hot water on during a cold night? Well, this has nothing on bathing at a hot spring in Camiguin. Located 10 minutes from tourist beaches in Yumbing and Agoho, by the mountainside of Hibok-Hibok Volcano is the Ardent Hot Springs. Its translucent waters and forest view makes this spot the best hot tub in the Philippines. Its highest pool has a temperature of 40 degrees while the bigger one at 35 degrees and perfect for a dip.

 

12.) Play with the Tarsiers in Bohol

In the Philippine Tarsier and Wildlife Sanctuary is a 3-6 inches tall unique creature.  With large eyes and sensitive nature, the Tarsier can definitely lure you towards its cuteness. Here, visitors are  allowed to hold them, nestle the Tarsier on your shoulder and take pictures with this very unusual creature.

 

 

13.) Dive into the Enchanted River of Surigao del Sur

 Flight Instructor from jojoscope

Flight Instructor from jojoscope

Known also as the Hinatuan River, the Enchanted River is not only magnificent in view but also enthralling in mysteries, thus the name Enchanted. The source of the existence of the spring is still unproven. Of course, science would tell you that the logical answer is of underground springs. However, the exact source has yet to be found. Also, since rivers are supposedly composed of fresh water, the salty taste of the water entices its mystery. Its depths are also unknown; as locals say: “No one has ever dived to the bottom and lived to tell the tale.” Mysterious as it is, the best experience of this attraction is getting to swim in its clear waters along with various types of fish swimming beneath you.

 

 

14.) Mountain climb at Mt. Pulag

 mt pulag from jojo nicdao

mt pulag from jojo nicdao

If you are an outdoor enthusiast and is fond of mountain climbing, this is the site to pursue. Known as the 3rd highest peak in the Philippines, this activity is not for the  person with a low stamina. “Playground of the gods” as this area is called, its view from the top and distinct botanical treasures such as the dwarf bamboos and pink Ayusep flowers make it a true work of the gods. You may camp along your way to the top, enjoy bonfires and hike through the trails of awesome proportions.

 

 

15.) Trek on Mt. Pinatubo

 Mt. Pinatubo Trek to Crater from nucksfan604

Mt. Pinatubo Trek to Crater from nucksfan604

As enjoined in the Pacific Ring of Fire, Philippines is home to a number of volcanoes. One of which is the Mt.Pinatubo, discovered only on 1991. It was believed to be a sleeping volcano until it erupted last June 15, 1991. Massive amounts of lahar (deadly mix of volcanic ash and lava) destroyed towns and cities leaving villages uninhabited and people homeless. Nevertheless, 20 years from now, the site is a world-class hiking destination with a picturesque view and a turquoise-colored crater lake. Tourists are allowed to camp by the lake and enjoy the serenity of the place along with its rich history and friendly people.

 

 

16.) Pick your own strawberries in Benguet

 Baguio.02 from gino.mempin

Baguio.02 from gino.mempin

Traveling along with your family? A fun and exciting activity awaits you in Benguet, Baguio. During the months of November through May, the strawberries grow in season. During which time, you should bring your family to the Strawberry Fields and pick these fruits yourselves. The kids will enjoy the outdoor activity as they browse through the plants in search of those lush colored stawberries with baskets in hand. Not only may you have quality time with your family, you also get to enjoy the cold weather of Baguio.

 

 

17.) Zipline at Dahilayan Adventure Park

 Dahilayan Adventure Park from miko.alino

Dahilayan Adventure Park from miko.alino

Dahilayan Adventure Park is a mountainous vicinity. Surrounded by a number of pine trees, its fragrant smell shall make the experience even more joyful. If you’re lucky, the weather would be foggy and you’d be able to see and touch the clouds (literally!).Enough with the venue! Let’s discuss the one-of-a-kind activity of ziplining! Known as Asia’s longest dual zipline, fly like Superman from a launch point at 4,700 feet above sea level. Zoom through the mountain of pine treesat a speed of up to 90kph. This thrilling experience is proved to be safe for all ages.

 

 

18.) Food trip in Iloilo

 Breakthrough Food, Iloilo-1 from OURAWESOMEPLANET: PHILS #1 FOOD AND TRAVEL BLOG

Breakthrough Food, Iloilo-1 from OURAWESOMEPLANET: PHILS #1 FOOD AND TRAVEL BLOG

Nationally known for its delicious delicacies, Iloilo is the kind of place that you’d be willing to travel for just to get that appetite satisfied. It has numerous restaurants to choose from such as the Breakthrough restaurant, the reigning seafood restaurant in town which serves the famous Aligue Rice and managat Fish (Red Snapper/Mangrove Jack). Native Chicken inasal and fresh/baked oysters are also served here. Another restaurant famous in Iloilo is the Netong’s Batchoy. This restaurant serves the nationally recognized Filipino delicacy of Ilocano origin, the batchoy, which is a soup with noodles, egg, chicharon and many other ingredients.

 

 

19.) Document the colorful fiesta of Sinulog

[su_youtube_advanced url=”http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OvXrE-qxI2I” width=”320″ rel=”no” modestbranding=”yes” theme=”light”]

In the late 1500s, the Philippines was conquered by the Spanish colony. Along with their oppression was the introduction of Christianity towards the country. Up to now, the Philippines remained as a Christian community and have likewise celebrated different types of fiestas (a celebration in tribute to the saints of each respective town). Sinulog, in honor of the Sto. Niño, is the most festive among all the fiestas of the Philippines. It is celebrated at the 3rd Sunday of January and is attended by quite a number of Filipinos from around the Philippines and foreigners as well. Parties are on for weeks until the final day of Pit Senyor. International artists such as Hed Kandi and local celebrities commemorate this feast. Truly, this is the legendary party where everybody gets to dance, meet new people and party all week long.

 

 

20.) Shop at the Mall of Asia

 

 SM Mall of Asia Manila from fotografirox

SM Mall of Asia Manila from fotografirox

SM Mall of Asia is the 3rd largest shopping mall in Asia and ranks fourth in the world. Given that, the mall caters to a wide selection of shops. You can shop here for things that you need for your Philippine trips, purchase internationally known brands such as Mango, The North Face, Fossil, Levi’s, Zara, Calvin Klein and many more.

 

 

21.) Meet the different aquatic marine life at Manila Ocean Park

 Manila Ocean Park from Rose Ferrer

Manila Ocean Park from Rose Ferrer

Manila Ocean Park is the Philippine’s first world-class marine themed park and educational center. This park offers: a view of the penguins swimming around their tank, swim with the sharks, a wide array of aquatic fish species in colorful aquariums, a foot spa where fishes get to nibble on your skin, a hydro-musical show, a talent show for sea lions and dolphins, a room designed with a snow-like temperature and hotel accommodations with an aquarium with live fishes in them as your wall.

 

 

22.) Play golf at Manila Southwoods

 island 9th masters from marty_ilagan

island 9th masters from marty_ilagan

Do you love to play golf? Drive on down to Carmona, Cavite and play at the Manila Southwoods Golf and Country Club. State of the art golf course construction was established to cater all weather golfing situations. Its Main Clubhouse is hovering over the 9th island green, 10th hole and 18th green of the Master’s Course. Its air-conditioned bar, Veranda and fine dining quarters, ladies’ and gentlemen’s locker rooms equipped with saunas, bars, massaging services and a heavenly jacuzzi. Its Legends and Masters Courses are intended for tournament plays and has been host to some of the world’s major golfing events.  This luxurious private club shall make you feel like royalty while playing a lavish game during your stay in the Philippines.

 

 

23.) Travel back in time at the world heritage town of Vigan

Dusky Crisologo from akosihub

Dusky Crisologo from akosihub

If the traveler such a yourself is drawn to rich historical destinations, then you should visit the town of Vigan. Its preserved infrastructures dates back to the Spanish Colonial period over Philippine territory. It was discovered by the Spanish conquistador Juan de Salcedo back in 1572 as a trading town. Even at present, Kalesas (horse carriages) are still used as a means of transportation. The exquisite nature of the town takes you back through time and relive centuries of history.

 

 

24.) Sky Walk Extreme at Crown Regency Hotel

 Oh my God! from Coolm36

Oh my God! from Coolm36

Do you like being in high places? Go visit Cebu at the Crown Regency Hotel where the country’s first Sky Walk Extreme will take you to greater heights. Available at all times of the day, this escapade is to die for. While wrapped with a safety harness, you will get to walk a translucent glass flooring that will make you feel like you are walking in thin air 126.55 meters above ground. Boy, will this make your Philippine trip at the top of the most fun places to travel to!

 

 

25.) Bet your luck at Solaire Resort and Casino

 Solaire Resort and Casino-009 from Shoot First, Eat Later

Solaire Resort and Casino-009 from Shoot First, Eat Later

Feeling lucky, chump? Try your luck with 1,200 slot machines or play some poker at nearly 300 table games at Solaire Resort and Casino. This recently-opened casino offers a wide range of gaming activities for all levels of game enthusiasts. There are private gaming salons, entertainment bar, an outdoor-themed casino and lavishly high limit tables for you to enjoy.

The Philippines is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the entire world. Not only does it have exceptionally picture perfect scenery, abundant wildlife, world-class standard facilities and very welcoming locals, it is also one place where you’ll get the best quality experience of a lifetime without spending all your money on such natural beauty. So, come on down and visit the tropical archipelago of the Philippines and have a vacation that you’ll never forget.

[su_note]Ready to go to the Philippines? Stay in one of these stunningly beautiful hotels in the Philippines the next time you travel there.[/su_note]

 

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