Top 10 Must-Visit Destinations in the Philippines

When people think of the Philippines, beach destinations like Boracay and Cebu often come to mind. However, the Philippines is also home to breathtaking volcanoes, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and national parks. This makes it a versatile destination that offers something for every type of traveler. Today, we’ll explore some of the most captivating places in the Philippines, including the well-known Boracay and Cebu. Let’s embark on a journey to discover the hidden charms of this country.

1. Laguna: Pagsanjan Falls

The first must-visit destination in the Philippines is Pagsanjan Falls, located in Laguna Province. Known as the most famous waterfall in the country, it features a dramatic cascade dropping from about 394 feet (120 meters) high, uniquely concealing a cave entrance. This allows for an exciting kayak tour through the falls. Situated within a national park, Pagsanjan Falls offers stunning Southeast Asian scenery, making it ideal for adventurous travelers looking to plan an unforgettable trip.

2. Taal Volcano

The second destination is Taal Volcano, one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines. Located in the center of Taal Lake, reaching its crater alone is an adventure that satisfies thrill-seekers.

3. Mayon Volcano

A must-visit destination, Mayon Volcano is located on Luzon Island. Known for its near-perfect conical shape, it stands at 7,874 feet (2,400 meters) tall. Most of the surrounding area is a national park, so even without climbing to the crater, the region is well worth exploring. Trekking here allows you to observe wildlife, including parrots. However, Mayon Volcano has challenging trekking routes and high gas emissions, so climbing is permitted only during specific periods, making it a uniquely special experience.

4. Banaue

Banaue, renowned for its terraced rice fields, is one of the top destinations in the Philippines. Estimated to have been created about 2,000 years ago by local tribes who carved the mountains and hills, these terraces are often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World” by Filipinos due to their intricate design and vast scale. Situated at 4,921 feet (1,500 meters) above sea level, the sunrise views here are nothing short of spectacular.

5. Boracay

A well-known destination, Boracay is a hallmark of Philippine tourism. It’s the most populated beach area in the country, with many residents working in tourism. Its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters make it a hub for various water sports.

6. Sagada

For those seeking an authentic Philippine experience beyond typical tourist spots, Sagada is highly recommended. Located at 5,249 feet (1,600 meters) above sea level, this region features dense forests and numerous caves. The journey may be rugged, but the natural beauty is unparalleled. Sagada is also home to “hanging coffins,” a unique burial tradition where coffins are suspended on cliffs to elevate the spirits of the deceased.

7. Cebu

Along with Boracay, Cebu is one of the Philippines’ premier resort destinations. With mostly sunny weather year-round, it’s perfect for water activities at any time. Among them, the Oslob tour stands out, offering the chance to see whale sharks—the world’s largest fish—within 16 feet (5 meters) of your boat.

8. Chocolate Hills

The Chocolate Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a unique geological formation in the Philippines. Over 1,200 small, dome-shaped hills resemble burial mounds. While green for most of the year, they turn chocolate-brown during the dry season, hence the name. Long ago, this area was submerged underwater, but now it’s fully exposed. Interestingly, the scale of this formation continues to grow over time.

9. Puerto Princesa

Puerto Princesa is the largest city on Palawan Island. Its most popular activity is the Underground River tour, where visitors can explore an 8-mile (8 km) river flowing through a cave-like environment by boat. The tour offers views of limestone cliffs, ancient stalactites, and stalagmites.

10. Island Hopping Tour

The final destination is the Island Hopping Tour, one of the most famous and popular activities in the Philippines. This tour takes you to the region’s most iconic islands, offering opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, sightseeing, and enjoying local cuisine. Some travelers even choose to stay for days on their favorite islands.

Exploring these Philippine destinations has truly sparked my interest in a country I hadn’t previously considered. I’m not usually a fan of resort vacations, and I always associated the Philippines with beaches. However, the terraced rice fields and volcano tours particularly caught my attention. I wish I were fluent in the local language to explore every corner of the country, but that’s always a challenge. Which of these destinations do you find most appealing?