When you sit and think of your utter dream vacation, do you imagine beaches with sand so white and water so bright blue that you can hardly believe your eyes? Do you imagine mountains, volcanoes, and waterfalls just waiting to be explored? If you answered yes to these questions, then you should seriously consider booking a plane ticket to the extraordinary Philippine Islands. Let’s go over some of the top 10 tourist destinations in the Philippines. And some beautiful hidden tourist spots in the Philippines, as well.
Banaue Rice Terraces
It would hardly be a trip to the gorgeous Philippines without making a visit to the wonderous Banaue Rice Terraces. These terraces are estimated to have been formed at least 2,000 years ago, and most likely primarily by hand. It is truly a spectacle. The rice terraces are carved into massive mountainsides. And are supplied with water through an irrigation system from a nearby rainforest. Rice and vegetables are still grown here, albeit in smaller amounts than what was developed in the past. The Banaue Rice Terraces truly are a fascinating sight that you will not want to miss while you are staying in the Philippines.
Tubbataha Reef
The Tubbataha Reef is a world-renowned coral reef that flourishes with life in the Sulu Sea. It is protected as a National Marine Park, and visitors can catch a boat ride out through Puerto Princesa. Over 1,000 species of varying marine life call the Tubbataha Reef home. If you decide to dive here, expect to see sea turtles, clownfish, sharks, and manta rays among the vast coral structures. Do not be surprised if you leave Tubbataha Reef with a new-found appreciation for the ocean and all the wonders it holds within it.
Mayon Volcano
On the large island of Luzon, in the province of Albay, you will find the immense Mayon Volcano. This impressive volcano rises over 8,000 feet in elevation and is still very much active. You can choose to explore the area surrounding and have a full view of the perfect cone that is Mount Mayon. Or you can hike, climb, visit the nearby hot springs, and get some out-of-this-world photos of the massive formation. When you see the sunset beyond the phenomenal Mayon Volcano, you will be eternally thankful you made the decision to make the visit.
Puerto Princesa Underground River
When you take a moment to imagine visiting the Philippines, do you picture exploring fascinating cave structures among aquamarine water? If so, the Puerto Princesa Underground River on the island of Palawan is awaiting your arrival. Pictures could never do this place justice. Puerto Princesa Underground River is the world’s longest subterranean river at 15 miles long. Book a boat tour here and take in the astounding wildlife, waterfalls, and insane rock formations throughout this national park.
El Nido
The island of Palawan is home to easily the most profound places in all of the Philippines. El Nido is no exception. This municipality is rightfully nicknamed “Heaven on Earth,” and when you find yourself here, you will understand why. Towering mountains and cliffs covered in lush green foliage surround insanely deep blue-green water that is home to flourishing coral reefs. Nacpan Beach is a popular destination. Where you can post up underneath one of the countless coconut palms and let paradise consume you as you have a drink and dive on into a good book, after diving at the beautiful reefs.
Chocolate Hills
The Chocolate Hills are a one-of-a-kind place and experience that you will not want to miss out on. These hills, located in the Bohol province, are spectacular formations that are covered in green grass that turns brown in the winter months. The brown grass is the reason the name Chocolate Hills was coined. There are at least 1,200 of these rolling hills throughout inland Bohol. It is speculated that the hills are comprised of limestone and coral with grass blanketing them. Visiting this region is undoubtedly a unique excursion you will surely never forget.
Boracay
There are a lot of tourist destinations in the Philippines worth visiting, but Boracay is the most famous. A quaint island in the western region of the Philippines, Boracay makes for an absolutely ideal destination. You can have the most superb vacation you could ever dream of in Boracay. As the island brings a wide array of activities to the table. Diving, hiking, windsurfing, boat tours, and jet skiing are just a few of the adventures available at your disposal here on the immaculate beaches of Boracay. Make sure to experience the island at night when it lights up and the restaurants and bars are teeming with music and fun.
Manila
Manila is the main major city that exists in the Philippines, as well as the capital of the country. The city of Manila is filled with a rich history and different cultural influences. While also having towering skyscrapers and a thriving nightlife. Manila has hordes of museums, monuments, and historical landmarks that administer substantial amounts of knowledge. This city truly comes alive at night. So you should definitely make it a point to go out and explore Manila after the sun goes down. And experience the booming fun that the city brings to its guests.
Cebu
Cebu happens to be the oldest city in all of the Philippines. This province is home to heaps of gorgeous natural areas as well as incredible resorts along the miles and miles of beaches. Cebu is a hub for allowing travelers to get to surrounding islands, too. Stunning coral reefs, white powder sand beaches, and heaps of waterfalls can all be found in Cebu. You can stay at one of the many resorts that stand throughout Cebu for an affordable price. And be transported into a tropical haven that has amazing food and even more amazing locals. Many people neglect Cebu when exploring the tourist destinations in the Philippines. But for us is one of the places you should visit. With so many things to do and discover you will never get bored in this marvelous city.
San Agustin Church
San Agustin Church is a testament to the rich culture and history that is present in the Philippines. Located in Manila and built way back in 1589, San Agustin Church is the oldest stone church still standing today. The Catholic church was built during the Spanish colonial era, and amazingly still stands after several earthquakes and fires. And you will truly feel like you have stepped back in time when you enter this remarkable structure.
A Hidden Tourist Spot
You can find The Bucas Grande Islands in the municipality of Socorro. This region is truly a hidden gem within the Philippines that you will not want to miss out on. The Bucas Grande Islands are reachable by boat and are home to the Sohoton Cove, lush green forests, and luminous blue water surrounded by mountains. You would be remiss to not book a boat tour and venture out to the Sohoton Cove area. Where you can explore abundant limestone rock formations and caves. Visiting the Bucas Grande Islands will without a doubt be a positively unforgettable experience.
Whatever kind of getaway you are searching for, the Philippines has it all. Tropical oases, cities, nightlife, mountains, phenomenal cuisine-you have got it all here. While we have discussed 10 of the top tourist destinations the Philippines has to offer, by no means is that all of them.
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