The Philippines is a tropical country in Southeast Asia that offers its visitors an amazing experience of tropical paradise. A country with gorgeous sandy shores, greenery and diverse culture, this group of islands comprising more than 7000 islands provides a wealth of discovery. If you want to swim in white sand beaches, snorkeling in clear water or hiking in rice terraces, the Philippines have it for you. This is a great time to remember to have all the proper travel paperwork – such as a Philippines visa if necessary and prepare for exciting adventures in the beautiful Philippines. Below is the list of recommended tourist destinations in the Philippines that you should not miss!
Here is the Top 6 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in the Philippines for an Unforgettable Adventure
1. Palawan: The Last Frontier
Palawan, being referred to as the “Last Frontier” of the Philippines, is well-known for its marine waters, cliffs and lagoons. Two excellent ones here are El Nido and Coron, where you can go diving and snorkeling with the best. Dive with colors of fish and corals, discover secluded grottos, and paddle through secluded bays. Another of interest is the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site with an 8 km subterranean river that runs through a spectacular cave with limestone cliffs.
Suggested Read: Philippines Tourist Visa Requirements: Everything You Need to Know
2. Boracay: White Sand Paradise
Famous for its fine, white sand, Boracay is one of the world’s most popular tropical beach paradises. The 4 km long White Beach with its coconut palm lined shore is excellent for swimming, sun bathing and watching fabulous sun sets. It is not all about leisure though for the adventurous you can enjoy water sports such as parasailing, water skiing, and windsurfing. When it is dark, the island turns to a vibrant party place where the beachfront bars and restaurants provide a youthful nightlife ambiance.
3. Banaue Rice Terraces: A UNESCO Heritage Wonder
The Banaue Rice Terraces in the Cordilleras are known as the “Eighth World Wonder” and are considered as one of the oldest hydraulic engineering systems constructed, 2,000 years ago, by hand. These towering terraces are part of the Ifugao peoples’ pride and history. Visiting these stairs of greenery gives a wonderful view and an opportunity to experience the native people’s way of living. It is recommended not to leave out the Batad Rice Terraces located even more remote and grand.
4. Cebu: Dive into Adventure
Cebu is a tourism-rich province that has strong historical and cultural affiliations as well as adventure. The city per se is famous for its sites such as the Magellan’s Cross and Basilica del Santo Niño. But it is the areas that are nearby which become popular among tourists and travelers. The Kawasan Falls in Badian is actually a three layered waterfall that is really beautiful to look at. Canyoneering includes going down the jungle, making jumps into clean water, and sliding on the face of vertical rock. For divers, there are two of the best places, Moalboal and Malapascua, where divers can swim with thresher sharks, beautiful coral reefs, and turtles.
5. Bohol: Nature and Adventure Combined
Bohol has many natural and unusual tourist spots that would surely wish to come back again. The Chocolate Hills, a thousand or more conical landforms developed over millions of years, are covered in green most of the year but turn brown in the dry season. For wildlife enthusiasts, Tarsier Sanctuary should be on your list, here you can see the smallest primate in the world. Loboc River Cruise is also a must-visit, it is about a slow boat ride amidst the jungle. There is also the chance to dive and snorkel in the nearby island of Panglao famous for white sand beaches and colorful marine life.
6. Siargao: The Surfing Capital
Surfing and nature lovers are going to love Siargao. Popularly called the surfing capital of the Philippines, its Cloud 9 wave alone draws surfers from different parts of the globe. Siargao is not only home to some of the most stunning surfing waves but also stunning lagoons, pristine white sand beaches and secret coves. Magpupungko Rock Pools and Sugba Lagoon are two incredible places for swimming and cliff jumping. Relaxed atmosphere, untouched wildlife and friendly people make this island ideal for those who want both, action and rest.
Conclusion
The Philippines is a beautiful country and an adventurous place to be with many different sights and stuff to do. Ranging from the white sand beaches of Boracay and Palawan, the marvelous Banaue rice terraces and the adventurous waves of Siargao, this country can indeed offer everything. If you want to have a leisurely vacation or extreme tourism, don’t miss these places that will make your trip to the heart of Southeast Asia Unforgettable.