5 Best Lesser-known Places to Visit in The Philippines
The Philippines is a tropical paradise with over 7,000 islands, each offering unique and breathtaking experiences. Whether you're looking for adventure, culture, or relaxation, there's something for everyone in this beautiful country.
One of the most popular destinations in the Philippines is Palawan. Known as the "last ecological frontier" of the Philippines, Palawan is home to the famous Underground River and the stunning El Nido beaches. The Underground River is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the new Seven Wonders of Nature. Visitors can take a boat ride through the river and see the stunning rock formations and limestone cliffs that line the cave. El Nido, on the other hand, is a group of islands with crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches. It's a perfect place for island hopping and snorkeling.
Cebu is the place to go if you're seeking for culture and history. It is the oldest city in the Philippines and is renowned for the iconic Magellan's Cross, Spanish colonial architecture, and tasty regional food. Tourists can also travel to the adjacent island of Mactan, where the legendary warrior Lapu-Lapu battled the Spanish adventurer Ferdinand Magellan in 1521.
Lastly, there's Manila, the capital of the Philippines. It's a perfect place to experience the country's rich culture and history. Visitors can explore the historic Intramuros, and the Walled City, and take a stroll through Rizal Park. The city also offers a wide variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
Travelers can also explore many hidden gems in the Philippines that are waiting to be discovered. One such gem is the island of Apo in Negros Oriental, known for its excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. For adventure seekers, the Batanes Islands offer breathtaking landscapes and unique traditional Ivatan culture. The island of Siargao is a surfer's paradise and offers a laid-back atmosphere. Another is the Sunken Cemetery in Camiguin, an underwater cemetery that was submerged during a volcanic eruption. Lastly, The Hundred Islands National Park in Pangasinan, a group of 124 islands that offer great snorkeling and diving opportunities These hidden gems offer a chance to see a different side of the Philippines and are definitely worth visiting.
Apo Island
Apo Island is a small island paradise located in the province of Negros Oriental in the Philippines. Its crystal clear waters, abundant marine life, and stunning coral reefs make it a diver's and snorkeler's dream come true. But what sets Apo Island apart from other island destinations is its community-based marine conservation efforts. The island has been declared a marine sanctuary, which means that the local community actively works to protect and preserve the coral reefs and marine life for future generations to enjoy.
Visitors can expect to see a variety of colorful fish, sea turtles, and even whale sharks swimming in the waters around Apo Island. The island also boasts several white sandy beaches, perfect for swimming and lounging. There are options for kayaking, paddle boarding, and other water sports for the more adventurous.
A terrific location for nature enthusiasts, Apo Island is also home to a variety of bird species and other animals in addition to its abundant marine life. The island's laid-back vibe makes it a great spot to get away from the rush and bustle of daily life.
Apo Island may be small, but it packs a big punch when it comes to natural beauty and conservation efforts. It's an unmissable destination for anyone looking for an off-the-beaten-path island experience in the Philippines.
The Batanes Islands
The Batanes Islands are a group of islands located in the northernmost region of the Philippines. These islands are known for their breathtaking landscapes, unique culture, and rich history. The islands are made up of rugged cliffs, rolling hills, and pristine beaches, making them an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
One of the must-see places in Batanes is Ivana Town, the oldest town on the island, here you can see the traditional stone houses, also known as "Ivatan houses" which are made of limestone and coral and are unique to the Batanes Islands. The culture of the Ivatans, the indigenous people of Batanes, is also a highlight of a visit to the islands. The Ivatans have a rich tradition of seafaring and agriculture, and their customs and way of life are deeply connected to the land and sea.
The island also offers a chance to explore its many lighthouses. One of the most famous is the Basco Lighthouse, located on top of a hill with a panoramic view of the sea and the surrounding islands. Additionally, the island offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and even paragliding.
The Batanes Islands may be small and remote, but they offer a unique and unforgettable experience. It's a place where visitors can immerse themselves in a culture and landscape unlike anywhere else in the Philippines.
Siargao Island
Southeast of the Philippines is home to the tropical paradise of Siargao Island. The island is renowned for its stunning coastline, clear seas, and top-notch surf breaks. Surfers from all over the globe come to its shores because it is a surfer's paradise. The Cloud 9, a flawless, hollow, and swift wave that crashes over a coral reef, is the most well-known wave in Siargao.
Siargao offers different activities for guests with a wide range of interests, so the island is not just about surfing. The island is home to natural treasures for nature enthusiasts, including the Magpupungko Rock Pools. It is a collection of tidal pools that become visible during low tide and allow tourists to swim and snorkel in pristine water. Sohoton Cove, a secret lagoon encircled by mangroves and only accessible by boat, is another must-see location.
The island also boasts a laid-back atmosphere and a unique local culture, which can be experienced through its local markets, festivals, and delicious seafood. Visitors can also discover the island's local art and crafts, such as the traditional "banig" or "mat" made from pandan leaves.
Siargao Island is a place where visitors can enjoy the perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and culture. Whether you're a surfer, a nature lover, or just looking for a laid-back tropical getaway, Siargao has something to offer for everyone.
The Sunken Cemetery in Camiguin
The Sunken Cemetery in Camiguin is a unique and eerie historical site located in the Philippines. The cemetery was once a sacred burial ground for the island's ancestors but was submerged underwater during a volcanic eruption in the late 1800s. Today, the cemetery can only be seen during low tide and it has become a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
The cemetery is a reminder of the island's history and the power of nature. The few crosses and tombstones that are still visible underwater can be seen by visitors. They are now covered in corals and are the habitat of a diversity of aquatic species. Experiencing how nature and human history interact on this location is a magical experience.
The Sunken Cemetery is also a popular spot for snorkeling and diving, as the clear waters offer a chance to see the cemetery's underwater features, as well as the marine life that calls it home. It's also a place to pay respect to the ancestors and the local's culture.
The Sunken Cemetery in Camiguin is a one-of-a-kind destination that offers a glimpse into the island's past and a chance to see the beauty of nature and human history uniquely. It's worth a visit for anyone interested in history and marine life.
The Hundred Islands National Park
The Hundred Islands National Park is a beautiful archipelago located in the province of Pangasinan, Philippines. The park is made up of 124 islands, although only a few of them are developed for visitors. The islands are known for their crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and diverse marine life.
One of the most popular islands to visit is Governor's Island, which features a viewpoint that offers a panoramic view of the entire archipelago. Another must-see island is Children's Island, which is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and picnics. Visitors can also explore the many caves and lagoons found on the islands, such as the Cathedral Cave, which is a large cave with a small opening that allows sunlight to shine through and creates a beautiful light show inside the cave.
The park also offers a variety of outdoor activities such as kayaking, island hopping, and snorkeling. Visitors can also take a boat tour to see the other islands and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
The Hundred Islands National Park is a perfect destination for those looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation. It's a great place to enjoy the natural beauty of the Philippines and to spend some time in the sun, sea, and sand.
