travel brochure in luzon tagalog

Traveller's Guide To Luzon, Philippines

Having a land area of 42,458 square miles, Luzon is not only considered the biggest main island but has also the greatest population among the three island groups of the Philippines. Apart from being the center of economic, social, and cultural development in the country, Luzon is also home to top natural wonders recognized around the globe.

Brief history and culture.

The chief island’s name ‘Luzon’ was coined after the Tagalog word ‘ kalusunan,’ which means northern part. According to historical accounts, the active involvement of the island in trade and economic development dates back to the 15th century. And because the main capital of the country, Manila, was also home to the seat of the government, it was witness to a number of battles during the Spanish colonial period and the World War II wherein it was captured by Imperial Japanese forces.

The main island is further subdivided into four major areas: Northern Luzon, Central Luzon, Southern Luzon, and the National Capital Region – all which are inhabited by a large number of Tagalogs, Ilocanos, and Bicolanos. Ilocanos dominate the Northernmost regions whereas the Tagalogs mostly reside within the National Capital Region and Southern Luzon. On the other hand, Bicolanos are found within the Southern Bicol peninsula. Major languages spoken within the island are Tagalog, Ilocano, Bicolano, Kapampangan and Pangasinense (usually spoken in Central Region). English and Filipino are also spoken by most inhabitants.

In terms of religious practices, majority of the inhabitants are Roman Catholics, Christians, and members of religious sects such as the Iglesia ni Cristo, Jehovah’s Witnesses, and Aglipayan Church. The main island also leads the country in industry and agriculture as it has the major urban areas and cities and whereas other regions produce crops such as rice, corn, bananas and coconuts.

Natural features and climate

Luzon is bounded by the Philippine Sea (East), Sibuyan Sea (South), and the West Philippine Sea (West). It is roughly rectangular in shape and extends to the South and Southeast (where the Bicol peninsula is located). Apart from the main island, Luzon also includes the islands of Palawan, Mindoro, Catanduanes, Masbate, Marinduque and Polillo. Prominent water forms are the Lingayen Gulf, Lamon Bay, Laguna de Bay, Taal Lake and Manila Bay. Predominantly characterised by plains and flat terrains, there are also mountainous ranges of Cordillera Central, Sierra Madre, and isolated volcanoes and mountains such as the Mt. Mayon and the highest peak of Luzon – Mt. Pulag. While the Philippines has only two seasons, namely dry and wet season, it’s ideal to travel to Luzon in the summer months of March, April, and May.

Must-see destinations in Luzon

If you’re heading to Luzon any time soon, make sure you’ll get to visit one or two places from the list below:

Baguio City

Also known as the ‘City of Pines,’ most tourists head to the Philippines’ pine-clad upland for its cold weather and lovely sceneries – making it a perfect romantic destination for honeymooners. Apart from its cool climate, Baguio City serves as a top vacation spot for local travellers because of its proximity to the country’s capital city Metro Manila. It’s also the gateway to other top destinations up north such as Sagada and the Banaue Rice Terraces. When in Baguio, it’s a must to go strawberry-picking, sightseeing, and enjoy Baguio’s delicious treats.

Vigan, Ilocos Sur

The City of Vigan in Ilocos Sur is considered as one of the oldest towns across the Philippines that is able to preserve the remnants of the Spanish Colonial Era in the country. Here you’ll see old, dark-wood mansions, cobblestone streets, and be able to ride on a horse-drawn calash ( calesa ). Another favourite destination in the northern part of Luzon, Vigan City is also close to other popular destinations such as the Paoay Sand Dunes, Bangui’s windmills, and Pagudpud.

Legazpi City, Albay

Another must-see tourist destination in Luzon is Mt. Mayon, a volcano famous for its almost perfect conical shape. This stratovolcano, considered as the most active volcano in the country, is located in the province of Albay in the Bicol Region. Aside from visiting the region’s almost perfect cone-shaped volcano, tourists should also head over to Bicol Region to visit their wondrous beaches (Calaguas Island and Caramoan), try water sports, and get a taste of their popular dishes such as the Bicol Express, and Pili Ice Cream as well as spicy dishes they’re known for.

Tagaytay City

A favourite destination among families , Tagaytay City offers a bunch of leisure and outdoor activities at amusement park Sky Ranch and Tagaytay Picnic Grove Complex, to name a few. It’s only around 60 kilometres away from Manila soit has become a popular vacation spot because of its cooler climate and outstanding sceneries – travellers can get a breathtaking view of Taal Volcano while having a sumptuous meal. The city is also home to art galleries, spa resorts, and bed & breakfast to give guests a refreshing treat while immersing themselves in nature.

Of course, the Philippines’ pride should not be missed on the list — the island of Palawan. Many people describe such as paradise because of its coves, razor-sharp limestone cliffs, turquoise-colored waters, lagoons, and white sand beaches. When visiting Palawan , the top destinations are Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron. While each destination brings a different travel experience for adventure-seekers, to describe each place as breathtaking or outstanding is not enough.

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20 Best Tourist Spot in Luzon Philippines (UPDATED): Places to See

Here is a list of the best tourist spots in Luzon, Philippines with descriptions including the remote places to visit.

Luzon boasts of UNESCO World Heritage sites including the internationally-famed Banaue Rice Terraces dating back to 2000 years old. Its varied landscape is dominated by two grand mountain ranges namely, the Sierra Madre and the Cordillera range, home to pristine natural wonders.

Indeed, Luzon offers a myriad of natural and cultural attractions. It’s more fun here. To get you started, here is a list of destinations to see. Take note. Most of these are unspoiled by the damaging impacts of mass tourism.

In this guide, we not only featured the best places in Luzon but also its off-beaten tourist spots.

Here we go.

Behold Tourist Spots in Luzon

1. batad rice terraces.

Listed among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Batad Rice Terraces sit on a secluded and scenic mountain. It’s known for its amphitheater-like appearance with its stone walls.

One could just wonder how the locals’ ancestors built the terraces using stones and wooden tools. Aside from sightseeing, you’ll also have the chance to learn and experience how the farmers grow their crops here.

To get the best view of the rice terraces, you’ll have to assault a steep terrain to reach the viewpoint.

• Location/Jump-off: Batad, Banaue, Ifugao
• Best Time to Visit: April-May, October-November

2. Sumaguing Cave

Sumaguing Cave is one of the several caves found in Sagada. It’s considered the deepest cave in the Philippines.

Inside, you’ll find stunning stalactite and stalagmite rock formations including naturally-made pools with icy-cold and crystal-clear waters. Bats also live in the cave. It is one of the most visited tourist spots in Luzon area.

• Location/Jump-off: Sagada, Mountain Province
• Spelunking Time: 2 hours

3. Tappiya Falls

Tappiya Falls cascades for more than 50 meters, creating a wide and very deep pool. It’s one of the nearby sights to see when visiting Batad Rice Terraces.

Expect a challenging trek along a steep mountain slope before reaching the falls. But don’t worries. The sheer sight of the falls could easily dissipate your exhaustion. Tappiya Falls is one of the best tourist destinations in Luzon.

• Location/Jump-off: Brgy Batad, Banaue, Ifugao
• Trekking Time: 1 hour
• Travel Guide: Tappiya Falls (UPDATED): Your Complete DIY Travel Guide

4. Bolinao Falls

Bolinao Falls is a series of several waterfalls with mesmerizing blue pools and pristine vegetation. Upon reaching one of the falls, you cannot help but jump because the crystal-clear waters are simply inviting.

Locals and tourists alike love coming here especially during summer to escape the simmering heat of the day.

• Location/Jump-off: Bolinao, Pangasinan
• Trekking Time: 5-10 minutes
• Entrance Fee: Php 20 per person for every waterfalls
• Guide Fee: Php 1000 for 4 pax
• Contact: Bolinao Tourism Office- (075) 5544284, [email protected]

5. Patar Beach

Patat Beach features a long stretch of fine and creamy golden sand. The crystal-clear waters plus the beautiful rock formations are a must-see here.

Another favorite natural spectacle here is the sunset which displays a breathtaking myriad of golden colors. It’s one of the best Luzon travel spots you should visit.

• Entrance Fee: None
• Best Time to Visit: Weekdays

6. The Hundred Islands

The Hundred Islands are among the best tourist spots in Luzon. In all, there are more than 120 mushroom-like islands, each with different features to offer.

Among the most frequented here are the so-called Governor’s Island, Quezon Island, and Children’s Island.

Here, you’ll find white beaches, coral rock formations, beach forests, and a bat’s cave. You can try jumping and swimming on the numerous pools found.

• Location/Jump-off: Alaminos, Pangasinan
• Contact: Tourism Office of Alaminos – (075) 2050917, 09209004470, 09282449011
• Best Things to Do: Island Hopping, Swimming, Snorkeling, Helmet Diving, Ziplining

7. Mt. Pulag

Mt. Pulag is the third highest peaks in the Philippines and is one of the most iconic tourist spots in Luzon. It is the ultimate getaway for those wanting to gaze and experience the best views of the sea of clouds, sunrise, and sunset.

The mountain is home to diminishing mossy forests and dwarf bamboo groves which host a plethora of endangered flora and fauna species.

• Location/Jump-off: Kabayan, Bengeut
• Entrance Fee: Php 175 per person
• Camping Fee: Php 100 per person
• Environmental Fee: Php 150 per person
• Contact: 09127628844

8. Bonsai Forest

The Bonsai Forest is one of the least known tourist spots in Luzon, owing to its remoteness and the lack of marketing campaigns. It covers more than 5000 hectares with ranging from one foot to 7 feet.

Visitors can ride a boat to navigate along the Bonsai Forest. The serene and pristine environment makes one feel like time is standing still.

• Location/Jump-off: Brgy Dibulo, Dinapigue, Isabela

9. Fuyot Springs National Park

The Fuyot Springs National Park is one of the best places to visit in Luzon.

Here, you’ll find numerous caves with stunning stalactite and stalagmite rock formations; cascading waterfalls; pristine rivers and brooks; and different naturally-built pools. It’s a perfect respite for those aching for a lifelong adventure.

• Location/Jump-off: Brgy Santa Victoria, Ilagan, Isabela
• Entrance Fee: Php 100

10. Honeymoon Island

Honeymoon Island is renowned internationally for its white beaches, coastal forests, and rich marine life. Located in a secluded part of the Pacific Ocean, the island is fit for those wanting to experience a rustic ambiance.

• Location/Jump-off: Divilacan, Isabela

11. Tangadan Falls

Tangadan Falls is one of the rising tourist spots in Luzon. It has three layers with the first layer measuring more than 40 feet high.

Each of the waterfalls has very deep pools with cold and crystal-clear waters. You can try jumping from one of the surrounding rocks or cliffs to experience the thrill. Just make sure you know how to swim.

• Location/Jump-off: Brgy Duplas, San Juan, La Union
• Entrance Fee: Php 30
• Guide Fee: Php 500 for 5 pax

12. Urbiztundo Beach

Urbiztundo Beach is one of the best places in the country for surfing, being in San Juan, the surfing capital of the North. The strong waves and current here combine to make it favorable for such activity.

Don’t expect a white beach here though. But there’s just nothing like it riding the powerful waves here.

• Location/Jump-off: San Juan, La Union

13. Lotus Valley Farm

Want to learn how to experience healthy and harmonious living with the natural and spiritual world? Then do not miss visiting Lotus Valley Farm. The Lotus Valley Farm features dense forests, organic farms, and hiking trails. They only serve organic and vegan meals here.

There are several cottages made of bamboo and locally-sourced materials. The farm is an advocacy feat of Mr. Ramon Tamayo to promote sustainable agriculture and environmental preservation.

• Entrance Fee None: None
• Cottage Fee: Php 5000-Php 6000

14. Palaui Island

Palaui Island is one of the emerging tourist spots in North Luzon and is increasingly attracting both local and foreign tourists. Located off the main coast of mainland Luzon, this rustic paradise offers an experience of a lifetime for nature lovers and adventurers.

Pristine rainforests cover much of the island and here, there are monkeys, wild pigs, numerous bird species, and giant narra trees. Walk on its coasts and you’ll find white beaches and blue lagoons.

• Location/Jump-off: Sta. Ana, Cagayan

15. Callao Cave

Callao Cave features a seven-chambered cave with stunning limestone rock formations reminiscent of a cathedral dome. One of these chambers contains a stone altar illuminated by a natural skylight.

Another cave hosts millions of bats while there’s a cave that provides refuge to the critically-endangered red-billed hornbills. For Catholic pilgrims, a cave houses the Basilica Minore of Our Lady of Piat.

• Location/Jump-off: Penablanca, Cagayan

16. Maligcong Rice Terraces

Cordillera is more than just the internationally-acclaimed Banaue or Batad Rice Terraces. It’s more outskirts are also home to equally-imposing terraces. Such is the Maligcong Rice Terraces.

To catch the best view of Maligcong Rice Terraces, visitors can hike to Mt. Kupapey which is just an hour away. The mountain also offers a breathtaking view of the sunrise and sea of clouds.

• Location/Jump-off: Brgy Maligcong, Bontoc, Mountain Province

17. Mt. Amuyao

Mt. Amuyao is one of the favorite hiking tourist spots in North Luzon. Unlike other prominent mountains such as Mt. Pulag, Mt. Amuyao can easily be viewed from the national highway.

It’s one of the highest mountains in the Philippines and home to an incredible array of wildlife species. It has one of the most difficult climbs especially when you get to a part called, “Stairway to Heaven.”

Mt. Amuyao also offers a stunning view of the sunrise and sunset complementing the sea of clouds.

• Location/Jump-off: Brgy Macalana, Barlig, Mountain Province
• Trekking Time: 5-6 hours

18. Kaparkan Falls

Kaparkan Falls is easily one of the recognizable tourist spots in Luzon. It features numerous layers of mini-cascades, each with swimming pools.

Even during the rainy months, the waters do not turn murky and one could just wander in awe.

• Location/Jump-off: Barangay Caganayan, Tineg, Abra
• Trekking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Best Time to Visit: July to September
• Guide Fee: Php 1000 for every 4 pax

19. Pagudpud Beach

Pagudpud Beach is one of the idyllic places to visit in Luzon, often touted as “Boracay of the North.”

Experience the serene and relaxing environment as you sip your coconut juice. From here, you can also catch sight of the famous Banguid Windmills.

20. Sleeping Beauty Mountain

The mountain is named as such because it resembles the shape of a woman lying on its back as if sleeping. The locals have a legend as to how the mountain got its name.

Hikers can also trek to its summit and get a stunning view of Kalinga’s mountains. Expect to walk on dense forests and cross brooks and streams before reaching the top. It’s one of the off-beaten places to visit in Luzon.

• Location/Jump-off: Tinglayan, Kalinga

21. Sayang Mossy Forest

Sayang Mossy Forest is one of the untold beautiful spots in Luzon. Until today, however, it’s not yet promoted for ecotourism. The locals protected it for centuries as it is their hunting ground.

Deer and wild pigs abound in these forests. It is a biological hotspot, home to orchids, different bird species, civet cats, and thousands of flora species.

In some parts of the forest, the trees are small that hunters could see deer or wild pigs running on the background. Thick mosses, some reaching up to 1 meter, cover most of the forests and trees.

• Location/Jump-off: Brgy Lias Kanluran, Barlig, Mt. Province
• Trekking Time: 1-2 days
• Status: Trails not yet developed for tourism

For More Information

If you need more information that may help in setting up your itinerary to the best places to see in Luzon, do post them in the comment section below. Don’t forget to check back on it after 3-5 days for our response.

Also, feel free to recommend some must-see tourist spots in Luzon that you personally visited. You may post them on the comment section as well.

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Hi there fellow traveler! My name is Daniel although you can call me Kumafor. That's my indigenous name. I grew on a remote village called Lias in Barlig, Mountain Province.

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Exploring the Beauty and Wonders of Luzon, Philippines – An Unforgettable Travel Adventure!

Discover the wonders of Luzon, the Philippines' largest island, boasting lush rice terraces, stunning volcanoes, and rich cultural heritage.

Discover the beauty and wonders of Luzon, the biggest and most populous island in the Philippines. From its rich history to its natural marvels, any Luzon tourist spot boasts a diverse culture that reflects the customs of various Filipino islands.

While Manila, the capital, is situated there, the island offers much more than city life. With hidden gems like lush greenery and unexplored territories, Luzon provides a unique experience for those who seek. Escape the crowds and indulge in the island's natural beauty that is yet to be fully explored.

What makes Luzon, Philippines, one of the Most Popular Tourist Destinations?

Ideal location

Luzon's strategic location makes it an ideal tourist destination in the Philippines. Located in the country's northern area, it is easily accessible by air, land, and sea transportation. Being the largest island, attractions in Luzon Philippines offer world-class beaches, mountains, historical landmarks, cultural heritage sites, and more.

Natural wonders

Luzon is home to some of the most breathtaking sights in the Philippines, such as rice terraces, caves, and windmills. These attractions are some of the best places to visit in Luzon, Philippines. They also provide visitors with exciting and unforgettable experiences. Luzon is also a popular tourist destination because of its active volcanoes, scenic mountains, beautiful beaches, and unique islands.

Historical and cultural sites

Luzon is a popular tourist destination due to its rich culture and heritage. From the historic walking areas of Banaue and Vigan to the religious sites of Manila and Baguio, there is something for everyone to explore. The region is also known for its friendly locals and vibrant culture, making it a great place to explore and learn about the Philippines.

If you plan to visit, here are some top things to do in Luzon, Philippines. Marvel at the Batad Rice Terraces, explore the Spanish colonial architecture of Vigan, hike to Mount Pulag, visit the ancient city of Intramuros in Manila, and soak in the natural hot springs of Laguna.

Read more : Discover Quezon Province, Philippines, and its Spectacular Tourist Attractions

Top 5 Must-See Spots for Tourists Visiting Luzon

Located in the heart of Manila, Intramuros is one of the top historical and best places to go in Luzon, Philippines, offering budget-friendly tours to explore its rich Spanish colonial heritage. You can walk around or ride a horse-drawn carriage to better appreciate the history hidden in its walls, or take an Intramuros Manila bamboo bike tour to go around.

Banaue Rice Terraces

The Batad Banaue Rice Terraces in Ifugao, Cordillera Region, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the tourist attractions in Luzon Philippines that presents a challenging hike up a 1500-meter-high attraction. The man-made, stair-like rice paddy follows the steep slopes of the mountainside, showcasing the intricate irrigation system that is still used today. After an hour-long hike up to the village of Batad, you'll be greeted with panoramic views of pristine, unsoiled forestry.

Taal Volcano

Taal Volcano in Tagaytay features stunning views from the viewing point. It's an easy hike that even kids can do. And as the 2nd most active volcano in the Philippines, Taal Volcano is one of the most popular tourist spots in Luzon, Philippines, and a must-visit destination for anyone who loves volcanoes and lakes.

With Pagudpud's untouched white-sand beaches, awe-inspiring sunsets, and captivating natural attractions like coves, caves, and rock formations, it's no wonder why it's dubbed the "Boracay of the North." There, you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in a serene atmosphere, which is perfect for taking pictures, relaxing, and exploring.

Explore Palawan, a stunning island in the Philippines with crystal-clear waters, lush jungles, and breathtaking beaches. Visit the popular tourist spots of El Nido, Coron, and Puerto Princesa, each offering unique experiences from overwater scenery to diving paradises. Don't miss Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, Calauit Safari Park, and Nagkalit-kalit Waterfalls for more amazing adventures.

The Thrilling Outdoor Activities You Can Enjoy in Luzon

Here is a list of outdoor activities in Luzon, Philippines, for adventure enthusiasts:

Hiking and Trekking

Luzon is home to some of the best outdoor adventures for tourists and several mountains and hills that offer fantastic hiking and trekking trails with stunning views. Some of Luzon's most popular hiking destinations include Mount Pulag, Mount Batulao, Mount Ulap, and Mount Daraitan.

Aurora province, located in Luzon, is known for its world-class surfing spots. Baler, Sabang Beach, and Cemento Beach are well-known spots for surfing in Luzon.

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

Luzon has several pristine beaches and islands that offer excellent scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities. Some of the top diving spots in Luzon include Anilao, Puerto Galera, and Tubbataha Reef.

White Water Rafting

Cagayan de Oro, located in the northern part of Luzon, is known for its rapids, making it a prime destination for white water rafting.

Paragliding

If you want to experience the thrill of flying, try paragliding in Carmona, Cavite. You can enjoy the stunning views of Laguna de Bay and the surrounding countryside while soaring through the air.

Delicious Dishes You Should Try While Visiting Luzon

Bistek Tagalog

Bistek Tagalog is a dish that originated in the Tagalog region of Southern Luzon, Philippines. This beefsteak dish is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce and citrus juice, typically calamansi, creating a tangy and savory flavor. The longer the meat is marinated, the more intense the flavor becomes, making it a favorite among meat lovers.

Sisig, originating from Pampanga, is made from parts of a pig's head seasoned with salt, pepper, and vinegar. Traditionally topped with a raw egg, this flavorful concoction is a fusion of crispy and savory that will have your palate dancing.

Take a bite of traditional Filipino cuisine with pinakbet. Bursting with a medley of vegetables and crispy pork, it's a hearty meal that's just right for any occasion. Savor the rich flavors of bagoong isda, a classic Filipino sauce that adds an extra kick of flavor to this already delicious dish.

Indulge in the rich and flavorful Kare-kare - a traditional Filipino stew with tender meat, fresh vegetables, and a savory peanut sauce. Served with shrimp paste, it's a popular dish for festive occasions and family gatherings, cooked in a clay pot and steeped in history.

Read more : Uncover the Hidden Gems of Pampanga

Ready for an unforgettable adventure? Luzon, the largest and most diverse island in the Philippines, awaits your exploration. From natural wonders to historical sites, this captivating destination offers a one-of-a-kind experience that will leave you in awe.

But wait, there's more! Traveling to Luzon has never been easier, thanks to Traveloka - your one-stop platform for flight tickets, hotel bookings, and so much more. With easy booking and exciting features like Traveloka Xperience , where you can order attraction and activity tickets right from your smartphone, you'll have everything you need in the palm of your hand.

Unleash the explorer within you and embark on a journey like no other. Book your trip now with Traveloka, and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Luzon, Philippines.

Get your adventure on! Book now at Traveloka and create memories that will last a lifetime. Happy travels!

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Luzon travel guide

Luzon is the largest island in the archipelago, occupying over a third of the nation’s total land area. That landmass extends from the rice basket of the broad, flat Central Plains, where surgar cane, coconuts, and tobacco grow, to mighty mountain ranges of the Cordillera.

Key to its Luzon's pre-eminence over the centuries has been the national capital Manila’s strategic bayshore location at the mouth of the Pasig river. Manila serves as a gateway to the mountainous rice terraces in Ifugao province.

The island fortress of Corregidor and the once war-torn peninsula of Bataan are also found in this northern part of the archipelago. Among the island’s hotbed of volcanoes are Taal and Mt Pinatubo , which angrily awoke from a 450-year slumber in 1991.

Luzon has two of the first three cities founded by Spanish invaders in the late 1500s. After gaining a foothold in Cebu in 1565, Miguel Lopez de Legazpi seized Manila in 1571 and built thick stone walls near its shores. By 1572, the Spanish conquistadors had founded their third city on the northwest Ilocos coast at Vigan . Today a small town, Vigan remains one of the country’s best preserved Spanish-style cities.

The windswept Batanes Islands off the northern coast of Luzon offer hiking experiences, while the islands off the southern coast are speckled with scarcely developed white sand beaches and coral-studded waters. Northeastern Luzon is known for a wealth of caves for exploring, plus the Cagayan River, the longest in the Philippines.

Places to see in Luzon

The country's capital is a vibrant city that should appear on every visitor's must-see list. Read more about Manila.

Corregidor Island

A small rocky island 48km (30 miles) west of Manila, at the mouth of Manila Bay, Corregidor is hallowed ground for war veterans. As its historical sites attest, Corregidor stands as a memorial to peace, valor, and international understanding, recalling the drama of World War II in the Pacific, when Filipino and American troops held their ground even as the US was unable to send help. Two monuments have been erected on the island. Through one, a domed white-marble memorial, the sun shines onto an altar built to honor those killed during the 1942 Japanese invasion. The second, an upward-reaching modern steel sculpture made from melted cannons, represents the flame of freedom.

Corregidor is one hour by jetfoil from downtown Manila. On the island, streetcars ferry visitors on a half-day, guided tour (charge). The tours include MacArthur’s headquarters in Malinta Tunnel, the mile-long barracks, other military structures, and the Japanese Garden of Peace. A small museum displays photographs of pre-war Corregidor, plus identification tags and personal effects of those who died there.

Mount Pinatubo

The 1,445-meter (4,740ft) Mt Pinatubo, on the eastern edge of Zambales Province north of Manila, is famed for the cataclysmic eruption in 1991. Visitors can hike through the lahar (volcanic mud) areas or to the crater with a guide during the dry season, or fly over the crater on clear days with Omni Aviation. Because of the unpredictability of flash floods and lahar flows, the military enforces a 16km (10-mile) off-limits area around Pinatubo during the wet season, which is from July to October. 

The 300-meter (1,000-ft) -high Taal Volcano, a crater within a lake, looms over the landscape two hours’ drive south from Manila. As one of the smallest, most active volcanoes in the world, it smoulders and occasionally rumbles, always a dramatic sight. Since its first known eruption in 1572, Taal has spewed over 40 times. A banca (pumpboat) can be hired from Talisay to cross the lake, leading to the trailhead for hike hiking up the crater. In 1999, the volcano churned ominously enough for geologists to warn against climbing it.

Before climbing any volcano – especially unpredictable Taal – be sure to check conditions with the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology ( www.phivocs.dost.gov.ph ).

Ifugao Rice Terraces

The Unesco-blessed rice terraces, which have been sculpted by indigenous farmers for about 2,000 years, fan across the mountains near Banaue, in Ifugao Province, to give the Cordillera global fame among travelers.

The massive expanse of rice terraces covering entire mountainsides is bound to awe even the most jaded traveler. Built 2,000 years ago, the terraces cover more than 260 sq km (100 sq miles) of steep mountains. People elsewhere in Asia terrace rice fields, but the expanse in Ifugao stands out for the extensive latticework of stone and mud walls blending naturally into contours of the steep mountainsides, all built by the engineering-savvy local Ifugao people before the advent of modern machinery. There is also a pre-modern but highly effective irrigation system (aided now by a hydropower project). It took the Ifugao population as a whole to make the terraces work. As Unesco puts it, the terraces depict an “absolute blending of the physical, socio-cultural, economic, religious, and political environment” of Ifugao people.

For the most dramatic views, hire a guide to take you further afield. Vertigo sufferers beware! The terrace edges are steep.

Fans of colonial architecture will love Vigan, a compact city that has vigorously fought to keep its Spanish-style buildings alive. Located in the Ilocos region of northwest Luzon, Vigan remains everything that Intramuros should be: a living, breathing repository of Spanish architecture and Filipino culture, all within a pedestrian-friendly central district.

The Cathedral of St Paul, built in 1641, stands in the center of town. In 1758, a royal decree transferred the northern Luzon Diocese of Nueva Segovia to St Paul’s, making it the ecclesiastical center of the whole area. This grandiose stone structure is 86 meters (280ft) long, and supported by buttresses. 

Stretching out in front of St Paul’s is the elliptical Plaza Salcedo, with a bell tower separate from the church, as is the style in earthquake country. To the north of is the Archbishop’s Palace, displaying sliding capiz shell windows, floral motifs, gardens, and a priceless collection of ecclesiastical artifacts. It served as a garrison for US forces in 1899. To the west is the Ayala Museum, the birthplace of martyr Father Jose Burgos and the best repository of Ilocano culture in the region. The well-maintained house features a fine collection of antiques, icons, and a library of English-language books that visitors can read while on site. 

Looping back to the south of Plaza Salcedo and St Paul’s, one finds the best street food in town – crispy empanadas dipped in basi vinegar – around Plaza Burgos. From here, the cobblestoned Mena Crisologo Street stretches southward along Vigan’s most famous attraction, the old ancestral houses of the former Mestizo District, now called the Vigan Heritage Village. The well-ventilated brick structures, with red-tiled roofs and capiz shell windows, served as homes to the wealthy, who made money trading indigo dyes, abel (woven) fabrics, gold and tobacco.

The 17th and 18th centuries saw a flowering of European Baroque in the Philippines, now most evident in Vigan’s grandiloquent plastered brick houses, complete with hardwood floors, capiz shell windows, and intricate grille work. These are now the ancestral homes of once-wealthy Chinese, Spanish, and mestizo merchants and artisansTo help withstand earthquakes, Chinese masons concocted a special mix of coral, limestone, and sugar for the bricks used for the imposing cathedral and outlying churches.

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Places to visit in Luzon

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Dive Into Philippines

Luzon Travel Guide

At the northern end of the Philippines, you’ll find Luzon, the country’s largest and most populated island as well as home to the country’s capital city Manila.  Visitors don’t tend to spend much time exploring the island of Luzon, which is a shame because it’s a beautiful island known for its spectacular mountains, stunning beaches, small villages and unexplored jungles.  It is also in Luzon, particularly around Manila, where you’ll find most of the country’s Spanish colonial landmarks and monuments.

Luzon tends to attract travellers who appreciate the more natural attractions.  Many first time visitors come to Sagada to explore the mountains and stunning rice terraces or to hike Mt Pulag, the highest mountain on the island.  It is also the ideal destination to learn about the Philippines indigenous cultures as well as the Philippines rich history.

Below, you will find our best guides to Luzon so you can have the best time possible in this diverse destination.

Luzon Itineraries

There are some great places to visit in Luzon.  Read more about all these attractions in Luzon below.

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Luzon accommodation.

There is a great range of accommodation in Luzon from luxury resorts to cheap hotels and every price point in between.  Read our guide below to book the perfect Luzon accommodation for your trip.

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Top 12 Best Beach Resort In Luzon [Book Them Now]

Luzon travel.

Being the island where Manila, the country’s capital city is located, it is very easy to reach Luzon by plane from other Philippines islands as well as many other international cities.  For more information, read our below detailed guides on how to travel to Luzon.

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You can find more information on other destinations in the Philippines across this site.

23 Best Places to Visit in Luzon

• Mar 24, 2023

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Luzon, the largest island in the Philippines, boasts a diverse landscape and cultural heritage. From the lush rice paddies and towering mountains to bustling cities and pristine beaches, this northern region offers a mix of natural wonders, historical landmarks, cultural destinations, and commercial hubs. With 8 regions and 697 municipalities, Luzon is a melting pot of sights and experiences that is sure to captivate any traveller.

As you explore this part of the archipelago, you'll discover amazing sunsets, flavourful cuisine, and warm hospitality that feels like home. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or a first-time visitor, Luzon is the perfect starting point for your travel in the Philippines. To help you make the most of your trip, here are the best tourist spots in Luzon that you simply can't afford to miss.

You can also read: The Ultimate Philippines 10-Day Itineraries

This post contains affiliate links and if you click one I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

23 Top Places in Luzon for Travellers 

Travelling to different destinations and exploring new places can provide you with a vast array of experiences. Luzon, home to more than a third of the country's population, offers something for everyone, catering to diverse travel needs such as climate, food preferences, and the types of activities one would like to engage in.

Best Tourist Spots in Luzon for Surfers

The Philippines is home to world-class surfing destinations such as Siargao , with its vast seas offering some of the best waves in the world. While much of the surf scene in the country remains relatively undiscovered by international travellers, there are some great spots in Luzon that offer exceptional experiences for surfers. Here are a few top picks to add to your Luzon itinerary.

1. Sabang Beach, Baler, Aurora

Sabang Beach in Baler, a charming coastal town in Aurora province, is one of the most accessible and affordable surfing destinations in the Philippines.

With its grey sandy beaches and great swells of waves, it's an ideal spot for surfers looking to catch some waves. 

Visitors can easily take a bus from Manila to Baler and then a tricycle to their accommodations in the Sabang Beach area. If you plan to stay overnight, you can book in Bambua Nature Cottages , which offers free parking and a garden. 

2. San Juan, La Union

La Union, also known as the surfing capital of the north, is another excellent destination for surfing enthusiasts. If you're seeking a break from your busy schedule and looking for a challenge, San Juan is the perfect place to go. With powerful waves that test your skills, a holiday in this coastal town is sure to leave you feeling exhilarated.

 Some of the best places to stay in San Juan include the 3-star Patio by Balai Norte with its fitness centre and Ciabel Hotel .

3. Puraran, Baras, Catanduanes

Catanduanes, a secluded island in northwest Luzon, offers an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of commercial tourism and industrialisation. 

This hidden gem is quickly becoming a popular destination for surfers looking to ride some of the best waves in the country. While there are limited options for accommodation on the island, JoSurfInn, Puraran Beach offers a beachfront 3-star hotel experience. Alternatively, you can opt for a unique stay at San Miguel River Park (SMRP) Glamping for an unforgettable adventure.

Best Places to Visit in Luzon for History Lovers 

There are a variety of historical landmarks in the Philippines that have quite a unique story linked to each other. 

4. Intramuros, Manila

Intramuros, known as the old walled city, is a significant town in the Philippines with a rich history that spans hundreds of years. Initially built by the Spaniards as a military stronghold, it served as an entry gate to Manila for three centuries. 

Today, Intramuros is a historical site that honours the country's culture and heritage, evident in its architecture, churches, and streets.  One of the best ways to learn more about Intramuros is to join the walking tour .  Exploring the fascinating ruins and stories within the Fort's walls is a must-see for any visitor to the Philippines. One of the popular activities here is the Intramuros Sunset Tour by bamboo bike. 

For the best places to stay, the 5-star Manila Hotel is just 750 yards from the iconic Intramuros and 1,000 yards from Manila Cathedral. Another option is The Bayleaf Intramuros , located within the historic walled city and just a 5-minute walk from SM Manila and 1 mile from Fort Santiago. 

 5. Corregidor, Bataan

Corregidor is an island fortress situated in the middle of Manila Bay in the Philippines, which was occupied by Japanese forces early in 1941 and was the site of a major battle during World War II.

Best Tourist Spots in Luzon for Culture Enthusiasts

The Philippines has an ancient history and is home to a diverse collection of cultures with a number of provinces, cities, and towns with their own distinct identity. 

6. Binondo, Manila

Binondo, the Chinatown of Manila, is a melting pot of Chinese, Spanish, and Filipino cultures. A visit to this vibrant neighbourhood is an excellent way to appreciate the rich heritage of the Philippines. He is highly recommended to take the Manila Food Tour: Chinatown Dimsum Experience, which gives you a chance to try several different local foods.

Historically, Binondo played a defining role in Philippine trade and commerce, and today, it remains a bustling hub of activity where visitors can find bargains on everything from food to clothing. 

Binondo is also the heart of traditional Chinese medicine, where visitors can discover a wealth of herbal remedies for almost any ailment.

7. Banaue Rice Terraces, Ifugao

The Banaue Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a testament to the incredible engineering and agricultural ingenuity of the Ifugao people, who created this breathtaking landscape over 2,000 years ago.

A major tourist attraction, the terraces are often described as a 'living cultural landscape of unparalleled beauty.' These awe-inspiring terraces, which have been carved into the mountain slopes, are not only a stunning sight to behold but also a testament to the deep connection between the Ifugao people and the land that sustains them. 

A visit to the Banaue Rice Terraces is a must for anyone interested in the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines. 

Best tourist spots in Luzon for Nature Lovers

Luzon is a paradise for travellers seeking natural beauty and outdoor adventures. While the island boasts numerous luxurious resorts, it's also home to some of the most stunning landscapes and natural wonders in the Philippines. 

8. Mt. Pinatubo, Zambales

Located in the mountainous region of Zambales, Mt. Pinatubo is a popular destination for tourists because of its stunning natural beauty. It offers a perfect backdrop for adventure activities like hiking, volcano boarding, and experiencing its still-active nature. 

Once a dormant volcano, it erupted in 1991, and the five-day eruption destroyed large swathes of land and sent ash into the atmosphere. Despite the devastation, the area has now become a natural wonder, attracting visitors from around the world.

9. Vayang Rolling Hills, Batanes

Located in the northern region of the province, this destination boasts breathtaking views of verdant hills and rolling terrains. It is an ideal place for various activities like strolling, bird-watching, taking photos, and hiking. 

Best Places in Luzon for Hiking and Camping 

Luzon has a diverse topography ranging from high mountains to valleys and bat caves to unexplored forests and limestone cliffs. Luzon is a hiker's and camper's paradise with various destinations accessible by land.

10. Mount Pulag, Benguet

Nestled in the Cordillera mountain range, Mt. Pulag is one of the best hiking destinations in the Philippines , known for its breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife. At 2,922 meters above sea level, it is the highest peak in the country. 

Hikers can enjoy a variety of trails with different levels of difficulty and experience stunning views along the way. For nature lovers, Mt. Pulag is a must-visit destination for its unparalleled beauty and unique biodiversity. You can take the Mt Pulag Private Tour from Manila and watch the sunrise at the summit.

11. Anawangin Cove, Zambales

Anawangin Cove is a hidden gem that has long been cherished by locals for its unspoiled natural beauty and secluded coves and beaches. If you're looking for a camping adventure, this is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. 

The serene atmosphere, surrounded by lush mountains and verdant trees, makes it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts seeking to recharge and breathe in the fresh air. Anawangin Cove is the perfect weekend getaway to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the tranquillity of the great outdoors.

Best Destinations in Luzon for Foodies

Food is a crucial aspect of Filipino culture, and Luzon offers a diverse array of culinary experiences. For first-time visitors to the Philippines, exploring these amazing foodie destinations is a must.

12. Binondo, Manila

If you're a foodie and looking for an authentic Chinese food experience, Binondo in Manila is the place to go. From coffee shops to shopping malls and street stalls, there's something for everyone. 

You should try out their famous dishes like dumplings, dim sum, congee, hopia, tofu, xiao long bao, siopao, tikoy, lumpia, noodle soup, mooncakes, fried rice, frog legs, Chinese deli, and many others. With its vibrant food scene, Binondo is a must-visit destination for any food lover travelling to Luzon.

13. Batangas City, Batangas

Batangas is also a food lover's paradise where you can indulge in some of the best Filipino dishes. Fresh seafood is abundant in the province due to its proximity to the waters. Make sure to try fried tawilis, sinaing na tulingan, spicy crabs, chilli shrimp, tinapa, and more. 

Meat lovers will also enjoy quality meat products from the province's agricultural areas. Be sure to try the famous bulalo, a beef shank soup that is a Batangas signature dish. And if you're looking for more local favourites, don't miss out on the lomi, goto, tapa, and kapeng barako.

Best Places in Luzon for Shopping

Shopping is a beloved pastime in the Philippines, and Luzon is no exception. From world-renowned brands to local boutiques, the region is a haven for thoes who enjoy shopping. 

Its bustling commercial areas and modern shopping malls offer a wide array of goods and products, making it a shopper's paradise.

14. Mall of Asia, Manila

If you're looking for a shopping and entertainment hub that has it all, then head over to the Mall of Asia in Pasay City. With a vast selection of shops, entertainment options, and restaurants, there's something for everyone to enjoy. 

Whether you're into fashion, gadgets, or just browsing, this mall is sure to keep you engaged. You can easily reach it via jeepney or taxi, making it a convenient destination for both locals and tourists alike. 

15. Taytay Tiangge, Rizal

The Taytay Tiangge is a must-visit destination for bargain hunters looking for affordable and quality finds such as clothes, shoes, bags, toys, accessories, souvenirs, and other novelty items. As a traditional public market, it offers a unique shopping experience with its wide array of offerings that cater to all your needs. So if you're looking for a budget-friendly shopping spree, Taytay Tiangge is definitely the place to be!

Best Places in Luzon for Business Travellers

If you’re travelling for physical meetings, conferences, or other professional reasons, you may want to consider staying in these places in Luzon. These locations have a business-friendly environment, connectivity, and cost-effectiveness.

16. Clark, Pampanga

Located away from Manila, Clark Pampanga is turning into a popular destination for business travellers and tourists alike. It’s home to a major international airport, the Clark International Airport, which is one of the major gateways of Manila, being well connected to various cities of the country and other key international airports. 

17. Makati City

The city of Makati is the Philippines' main business district and home to many of the country's richest, most progressive, and most visionary financial institutions and organisations. If you're planning a trip to Metro Manila, you will surely want to include this thriving area in your activities. 

Best Tourist Spots in Luzon for Couples

If you’re planning to escape the harsh winter season in your country, then head to these sunny and warm tourist spots in Luzon.

18. Romblon Island

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city by heading down to the pristine beaches of Romblon, located in the southern part of the Philippines. Unlike other tourist destinations, Romblon's beaches are unspoiled and less crowded, offering a peaceful retreat for those seeking relaxation. With sugary white sands and crystal-clear waters, you'll surely find the warmth and tranquillity you need in this stunning spot.

Cool and Fresh Destinations in Luzon

Travel can be a great way to escape the heat and find relief from discomfort. If you're looking for cool destinations in the Philippines, there are plenty of places to choose from. Here are some suggestions for places where you can enjoy cooler temperatures and escape the heat.

19. Bagui, Benguet

Baguio, known as the summer capital of the Philippines, is a popular destination for those seeking respite from the heat. Its location, surrounded by natural beauty, and cool, temperate climate make it a must-visit spot.

20. Tagaytay, Cavite

Known as the cool mountain escape from the busy city of Manila, this is one of the places to go to during the summer months. You can enjoy the gorgeous panorama of Taal Volcano while sipping locally brewed coffee. You can treat yourself to a wellness spa and then head to a restaurant for a nice bowl of soup.

Best Destinations for Backpackers and Soulsearchers

Whether you're taking a gap year, or simply deciding to embark on a solo adventure after college, backpacking in Luzon is a great way to see the country. The northern part of Luzon, in particular, offers a rewarding adventure for solo travellers, with its tropical climate, friendly locals, and unique attractions. 

21. Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur

Ilocos is a great hotspot for backpackers and solo travellers because you can explore Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur by bus, jeepney, tricycle, or on foot. There are museums, churches, historical landmarks, street food stalls, and cultural sites. 

22. Metro Manila

Being the capital of the country, Manila is the home of unique and diverse flavours, vibrant culture and traditions, festive celebrations, and exciting nightlife. Manila is the foodie's heaven with an amazing array of restaurants. It’s a centre for business, culture, and education.

Best Places in Luzon for Family Holidays

The Philippines has emerged as a top choice for family travellers owing to its hospitable and welcoming atmosphere. Luzon, in particular, is a region that boasts a rich cultural tapestry, an array of mouth-watering cuisine, and a plethora of fascinating attractions that are sure to delight your entire family.

23. Subic, Zambales

Subic offers an extensive selection of thrilling activities suitable for families seeking adventure. The area is renowned for its abundance of water sports, including swimming and scuba diving, among others. 

Additionally, Subic provides excellent opportunities for hiking and snorkelling. However, what truly sets Subic apart is its rich historical significance. Visitors are often drawn to this location to learn more about its intriguing place in Filipino history.

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1 Week Philippines Itinerary: A Taste of Luzon Mountains + Terraces

Posted on Last updated: March 16, 2023

Although I would always recommend more than just 1 week in the Philippines , being able to get to this incredible country for any amount of time is still a win. Even in such a short time, you will most certainly fall in love with the country.

The Philippines, one of the world’s best countries, has many attractions to explore. From the big crazy city of Manila to the sparkling tiny remote islands, there’s a bit of something for everyone. And I’ve included a great introduction the main island of Luzon in this 1 week Philippines itinerary .

You’ll be moving quickly, but not so fast that you’ll miss out on the big things. You’ll have a few days in the city, in the mountains, and in the rice terraces so you can get a full dose of the Philippines in a week.

Sure, there are tons of other destinations in the Philippines, but I have created this itinerary to be the perfect introduction to the best sights and things to do here. If you can visit the islands afterwards, that would be the next step.

Travel Requirements for the Philippines

Passengers flying to the Philippines must register with the One Health Pass to Travel to the Philippines and submit an electronic Health Declaration Card. During C*VID-19, the Philippines has an online system to safeguard public health.

Before boarding a journey to the Philippines, incoming passengers must register their personal information and flight details. The obligatory electronic Health Declaration Card can be completed by travelers using the One Health Pass. They are required to supply their contact information, medical information, and other details concerning their travel.

Getting to the Philippines

The largest airport and most practical place to fly into in the Philippines is the capital, Manila. This airport has the most international flights and is the best place to start exploring the Philippines. Check flights to Manila from most international airports.

Getting Around the Philippines

The Philippines are larger than you may think! Many locations are reachable only via flight, while you can take busses throughout the mainland and boats between most of the islands. Book your transport ahead of time here.

1 Week Philippines Itinerary

With the Philippine Sea, the Sibuyan Sea, and the South China Sea enclosing Luzon’s eastern, southern, and western shores, this island boasts a 3,000-mile-long coastline (5,000km).

Rice terraces, valleys, lush jungles, cave systems, mist-filled mountains, and the majestic pine forests of the Cordillera Region make up the country’s interior. The bustling metropolis of Manila, Spanish historical towns like Vigan, and the flawless stratovolcano Mayon may all be found on the island of Luzon.

There are tons of adventures in the Philippines and incredible places to visit. Among the highlights of this one-week Philippines itinerary are Sagad, the “Eighth Wonder of The World,” Banaue Rice Terraces, and Manila, the country’s capital city.

Phillipines Day 1: Tuguegarao

In the northeastern section of Luzon, Tuguegarao City, the capital of Cagayan province, is well-served by domestic flights from Manila and other major Philippine airports.

If you have time after your arrival, visit Penablanca’s Callao Caves , or stay in Tuguegarao City to see the Buntun Bridge, Horno Ruins, San Jacinto Church, and Tuguegarao Cathedral before sampling some of the city’s delicious offerings.

Phillipines Itinerary Day 2-4: Banaue

Today’s bus trip to Banaue will take roughly five hours, so you have to get an early start. As you drive through small towns, take in the scenery and say hello to any friendly Filipinos you see— finally, witness the rice terraces!

The Banaue Rice Terraces, cut into the mountains of Banaue, Ifugao, are world-renowned for their stunning, world-class landscape. It is said that if all the terraces were placed end-to-end, they would span half of the planet! This was built approximately 2000-6000 years ago , most likely by hand.

Take a tricycle to the Banaue Viewpoint and then trek for 3-4 hours back down the trail. It’s a must in any 1 week Phillippines itinerary.

On the third day, make your way to Batad , where the view is even more spectacular! To begin your walk, head to Batad Saddle , which can be reached in about 40 minutes by tricycle. To get to the Tappiya Waterfall , you’ll have to trek through the town and carefully balance on rice terraces, all while taking in the grandeur of this exceptional place.

Phillipines Itinerary Day 4-6: Sagada

Begin your journey to Sagada with a four-hour bus or van ride. Sagada is recognized for its gorgeous and tranquil mountain valleys, rice fields, limestone caverns, waterfalls, and cliffs that seem to protrude out of a sea of clouds. It is located in the Cordillera Mountains, approximately 5,000 feet above sea level.

The cool mountain temperatures make this a perfect hiking destination, and the town is famous for its Hanging Coffins, which can be found inside caves or on the face of cliffs in Echo Valley. The Hanging Coffins are a 30-minute climb from town and a fantastic way to spend your first afternoon in Sagada.

On day 5, you have a variety of gorgeous hikes to choose from– Marlboro Hill to Blue Soil, Sumaguing Cave, Lumiang Burial Cave, or Danum Lake.

Day 6, and you’re on your way to Manila by bus (12 hours journey), which is usually quite an adventure in itself.

Phillipines Itinerary Day 6-7: Manila

The capital of Luzon, Manila, is the penultimate stop on this 1 week Philippines itinerary in Luzon. Explore the existing Gates, Fort Santiago and its adjacent park, San Agustin Church, and the Manila Cathedral today. Visit the Rizal Museum, located near the Fort, to learn about local history and the national hero, Jose Rizal.

You can still get a great introduction to Manila, even with just 1 day. Many people opt for a bicycle tour of Manila’s most historic neighborhood before walking around and trying some different Filipino food.

You’ll feel moved from Asia to perhaps Latin America with its magnificent Spanish influences, cobblestone streets, plazas, and cathedrals!

Music Festivals in the Philippines

The Philippines is mainly famous for its beautiful beaches and vibrant cities. However, in recent years, the country has gained a reputation for its vibrant nightlife scene. If you’re a first-time visitor to the Philippines, you won’t have a problem finding a nightlife option that suits your tastes.

You can enjoy anything from classical to indie to disco and electronic dance music (EDM) at their world-class music festivals. Click here for details of the most extraordinary events taking place across the country in 2022 for those lucky enough to be here.

Best spots for Photographers in the Phillipines

The Philippines is a photographer’s dream because of its unique mix of urban vibrancy, rich history, and natural beauty. You don’t need to go far. One of Manila’s most popular Instagram-worthy spots, Bonifacio Global City is the best place to start. BGC is a popular destination for Instagrammers who enjoy urban landscapes, thanks to its bustling city lights, skyscrapers, and stunning wall art.

Aside from being Instagram-worthy, Rice terraces in Banaue are also a must-see for most foreign tourists. Although tourism has opened up a previously unknown culture to the West and created a large tourist sector, those seeking a more genuine experience can travel to less-visited areas where rice harvests are still the mainstay of the economy.

Osmena Peak has dominated Cebu’s Instagram feeds for years, but Casino Peak is about to take its place. Casino Peak is a must-see while visiting Cebu because of its chocolate-hills-like beauty, breathtaking views, and awe-inspiring rock formations.

Unique Experiences to have in the Philippines

The Philippines is one of those places where everyone can have a unique experience. If you ever find yourself in the Philippines, you must try the local delicacy known as Balut. If you’re ever in the Philippines, you must try this hard-boiled duck egg with an embryo inside. You can buy this high-protein snack on the street.

The Philippines offers a wide variety of food options. You can eat on the beach, in a skyscraper, or a public park. Eating next to a waterfall is one dining experience you might like to try. You may dine right next to the falls at the Villa Escudero Waterfall Restaurant. You can choose from a broad selection of seafood and beef items on their menu. This family-friendly spot offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience in the Philippines.

If you have more than just a week, add onto your 1 week Philippines itinerary with a flight from Manila to any of the islands. Start in Boracay or Cebu for some other-worldly sights.

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CABANATUAN & NUEVA ECIJA TRAVEL GUIDE | Itinerary + Budget + Map [UPDATED 2022]

Nueva Ecija is a land-locked province situated at the central plains of the Philippine’s Luzon island. Located about 180 kilometers from Manila, it is dubbed as the Rice Granary of the Philippines due to its vast plains of rice fields. Tourist attractions are few and far between across its five cities and twenty seven towns, but worry not, there are still places to visit in Nueva Ecija. It may not have any beaches, but it has an abundance of rivers to explore, a few waterfalls, and a lot of historical places. Although Palayan City is the provincial capital of Nueva Ecija, Cabanatuan City is the more commonly associated one with the province and is easier to access than the former. I would be basing this travel guide with Cabanatuan being the point of destination.

HOW TO GET TO NUEVA ECIJA

The province of Nueva Ecija, thru Cabanatuan City, is easily reachable from Metro Manila through numerous bus lines plying the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and the Subic–Clark–Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) . Travel time is about three to four hours, depending on the traffic. Most, if not all buses, stop at Cabanatuan City’s central bus terminal, found just a little bit on the outskirts of the downtown area. Currently, there are no commercial airports in Nueva Ecija.

METRO MANILA TO CABANATUAN BY BUS ○ 3-4 HOURS TRAVEL TIME ○ FARE ₱190.00 +/- Numerous bus lines travel to Cabanatuan City on an hourly and daily basis. Most of these are located in Caloocan, Pasay, and Quezon City (Cubao). Travel time takes approximately three to four hours, depending on the route your chosen bus takes. Take the ones with the signboard Cabanatuan or San Jose Via SCTEX for a shorter journey time. Buses are generally air-conditioned, with a fare of ₱190.00+/-, but there are still ordinary buses if you want to save a bit on expenses. ● BALIWAG TRANSIT - Caloocan , Cubao | (02) 912-3361 ● ES TRANSPORT - Cubao | (02) 912-5975, (02) 421-4339 ● FIVE STAR - Cubao , Pasay | (02) 851-6614, (02) 851-6659 ● GENESIS (BALER-BOUND) - Cubao | (02) 709-0803, (02) 421-1425 ● VICTORY LINER (TUGUEGARAO-BOUND) -   Kamias , Pasay , Manila , Caloocan | (02) 727-4688

BAGUIO CITY TO CABANATUAN BY BUS ○ 4 HOURS TRAVEL TIME ○ FARE ₱180.00 +/- Currently, there’s only one bus line plying the Cabanatuan to Baguio route, Summer Bloom Transport (₱180.00+/-, ordinary and air-conditioned, 4 hours travel time). One can also take vans, which are a bit faster than buses (₱250+/-, 3.5 hours travel time).

GETTING AROUND NUEVA ECIJA

Cabanatuan is dubbed as the Tricycle Capital of the Philippines . Just go to the area near the public market and you’d understand why. With that, the tricycle is really the preferred mode of transportation, not only in Cabanatuan, but also the other municipalities and cities in Nueva Ecija. Minimum fare is set at ₱10.00. For longer journeys, there are also jeepneys available, but mostly on the city centers only.

NUEVA ECIJA ORGANIZED TOURS & GUIDES

As far as I know, there are no organized tours around the province of Nueva Ecija. During one of my visits though, Microtel Cabanatuan organized one for us using their hotel van. You may contact them at this number: (0927) 804-2929.

SPEAK NUEVA ECIJA

Thank You - Salamat / Agyamanak Good Morning - Magandang Umaga / Naimbag a Bigat Good Afternoon - Magandang Hapon / Naimbag a Malem Good Evening - Magandang Gabi / Naimbag a Sardam How Much? - Magkano? / Sagmamano Daytoy? Where is… - Saan Ang… / Sadino ti…

WHERE TO STAY IN NUEVA ECIJA

Most of the accommodations I know in Nueva Ecija are concentrated in Cabanatuan City. While there are inns and hotels around other towns in the province, it is really easier to start your sightseeing tour with Cabanatuan as your base of operation. As of the moment, there are no five-star hotels in the city, but there are pretty decent lodging houses where you can spend your night in.

WHERE TO EAT IN NUEVA ECIJA

To be honest, I haven’t really tried eating out on most parts of Nueva Ecija except Cabanatuan City. From the little time I spent on the city’s restaurants, I never once got disappointed. Actually, I was fairly surprised at the number of good places to eat in Cabanatuan and at the quality of their dishes. Most serve Filipino and Western cuisines.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN NUEVA ECIJA

Nueva Ecija is recognized for producing tons and tons of rice but it’s not really known as a tourism hub. You can literally count the number of tourist spots along its almost 6,000 square kilometers of land, but to be fair, one can still get something out of a visit to the province. Besides the earmarked tourism places in the area, one can also enjoy the seemingly never-ending scenes of pastoral rice fields, small brooks, and serene rivers that dot the entire province.

FESTIVALS IN NUEVA ECIJA

WHAT TO BUY IN NUEVA ECIJA

If you’re looking for the usual city shirts, mugs, key chains, and ref magnets, Nueva Ecija might not be the place for you. Tourist trinkets are virtually unknown in this part of the Philippines. What you can bring home though are delicious packs of local sausage or longganisa, especially those found in Cabanatuan City.

NUEVA ECIJA TOURIST SPOTS MAP

NUEVA ECIJA SAMPLE ITINERARY & BUDGET

Visiting the known tourist spots in Nueva Ecija will, surprisingly, take three full days. The main reason being that most of these are located far from each other. I suggest you base your stay at Cabanatuan City, as it is the easiest town you can reach via public transport and there are a lot of good food places within the area. If you don’t have enough time, you may skip on a few places and limit your stay to two days. And if you have more time to spare, I suggest you add a day or two on your itinerary to visit the many Cabanatuan rice fields and rivers and its neighboring towns. Below is a sample itinerary maxing out the full potential of Nueva Ecija’s identified tourist spots.

► DAY ONE | ₱1,431.00 PER PERSON BASED ON A GROUP OF FOUR

Depart Manila to Gapan very early in the morning    ₱150.00 – BUS FARE MANILA TO GAPAN Visit Minalungao National Park    ₱800.00 – TRICYCLE FARE FROM GAPAN TO MINALUNGAO, ROUNDTRIP, GOOD FOR 4 PERSONS    ₱40.00 – MINALUNGAO PARK ENTRANCE FEE Explore Minalungao National Park - Breakfast    ₱150.00 – PER PERSON AT MINALUNGAO RESTAURANT - Rafting    ₱500.00 – ALL DAY RAFT RENTAL FEE, GOOD FOR 8 PERSONS - Caving - Wall Climbing - Grotto Hike - Swimming - Zipline    ₱50.00 – ZIPLINE FEE, ONE WAY Lunch at Minalungao    ₱150.00 – PER PERSON AT MINALUNGAO RESTAURANT Depart Minalungao National Park    ₱0.00 – ASK YOUR RENTED TRICYCLE TO DROP BY GAPAN CHURCH BEFORE GOING BACK Visit Gapan Heritage street - Ancestral Houses - Virgen La Divina Pastora Shrine Church Depart to Cabanatuan City    ₱50.00 – BUS FARE GAPAN TO CABANATUAN CITY Check in at Cabanatuan City    ₱800.00 – LOWEST PRICED HOTEL BASED ON AGODA , GOOD FOR TWO PERSONS Visit NFA Grains Industry Museum    ₱16.00 – ROUNDTRIP JEEPNEY FARE    ₱0.00 – FREE ENTRANCE Dinner    ₱100.00 – DINNER AT EATERY

► DAY TWO | ₱1,036.00 PER PERSON BASED ON A GROUP OF FOUR

Breakfast    ₱100.00 – BREAKFAST AT EATERY Visit Fort Magsaysay and the Aquino-Diokno Memorial    ₱8.00 – JEEP FARE TO CABANATUAN BUS TERMINAL    ₱20.00 – JEEP FARE TO FORT MAGSAYSAY (APPROXIMATE)    ₱0.00 – ENTRANCE FEE Visit Camp Pangatian Shrine   ₱100.00 – TRICYCLE FARE FROM FORT MAGSAYSAY (APPROXIMATE) Lunch at Hapag Vicenticos   ₱100.00 – TRICYCLE FARE FROM FORT MAGSAYSAY (APPROXIMATE)   ₱200.00 – LUNCH PER PERSON Drop by Cabanatuan Cathedral and Antonio Luna Shrine Visit Pantabangan Dam   ₱8.00 – JEEP TO CABANATUAN BUS TERMINAL    ₱75.00 – JEEP TO PANTABANGAN DAM - Boat Ride Bass Fishing (optional, check rates with boatmen) - Sunset - Dinner       ₱100.00 – DINNER AT EATERY Go back to Cabanatuan City    ₱75.00 – JEEP TO CABANATUAN CITY Day two at Cabanatuan City hotel    ₱800.00 – LOWEST PRICED HOTEL BASED ON AGODA , GOOD FOR TWO PERSONS

► DAY THREE | ₱811.00 PER PERSON BASED ON A GROUP OF FOUR

Breakfast then check out from hotel (option of leaving your bags at the hotel)    ₱100.00 – BREAKFAST AT EATERY Depart for Gabaldon    ₱8.00 – JEEP TO CABANATUAN BUS TERMINAL    ₱80.00 – JEEP TO DUPINGA RIVER Explore Dupinga River Picnic Lunch at Dupinga River        ₱300.00 – HUT RENTAL FEE    ₱100.00 – PICNIC FOOD PER PERSON    ₱8.00 – JEEP TO NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY IN GABALDON Trek Gabaldon Falls    ₱20.00 – ENVIRONMENTAL FEE    ₱100.00 – LOCAL GUIDE Travel back to Cabanatuan, then Manila    ₱100.00 – DINNER AT EATERY    ₱80.00 – JEEP TO CABANATUAN BUS TERMINAL    ₱190.00 – BUS FROM CABANATUAN TO MANILA

  ► ₱3,278.00 ~ TOTAL BUDGET PER PERSON BASED ON A GROUP OF FOUR

EXTEND YOUR NUEVA ECIJA TRIP

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45 comments.

Proud Novo Ecijano here😊 Nice Post😊

Thank you Mac! Glad you like it. I'll be updating this travel guide from time to time as I know there's a lot more to Nueva Ecija than the list I posted above. :)

I can ask where I can inquire for a vacation just in Nueva Ecija 2d, 1n. so i can go to beautiful places in nueva ecija. only three people person

Hi Anonymous, as far as I know there are no tour packages available for Nueva Ecija. Maybe you can do it DIY.

My friends and I wants to go here :) #HeneralLunaFever

Hi Xabryl, a weekend is enough to explore Nueva Ecija! Go! :)

Very informative & detailed! Thanks! :)

Thanks! Enjoy your tour of Nueva Ecija!

Hi. Can i ask. How to commute from tarlac city to gapan nueva ecija? :)

Hi Joanna, I haven't tried commuting from Tarlac to Gapan yet. If ever you have already, please share your experience here. :)

How much the bus fare from nueva ecija to cubao?

About 200 pesos, Yen

May I know, how much you have spent for nueva ecija?

Hi Arianne, will update this blog soon with travel expenses

Me and my cousins are going to Minulangao National Park this Oct. 21. and ur post is all I need! Grabe ang dami palang mpupuntahan s nueva ecija.. excited n ko.. meron din spring, and un n lng ata ang kelangan kong mlaman kung saan.. Can i just ask kung gano po katagal ang byahe to pantabangan dam galing sa Gapan? Kaya b ng daytrip lng ang minulangao-ancestral-pantabangan? Pls let me know po.. thanks

Hi Me, you can do a Minalungao-Pantabangan trip in a single day but it's gonna be tight. Better spend time in Minalungao first, it's nice to simply explore the place for hours

I'm from bandung, indonesia. I miss nueva ecija, when i was a little boy i live in san jose for about 3 years man. I miss all my friend. Nueva ecija is all about "rice field" thats it man but i do love the people. Good post! Cheers! :)

Wow! I just visited Bandung a few months back, I really enjoyed its cool weather. :)

How much is your recommended budget if we follow the sample itinerary? :)

Hi, will post an update with expenses in the future :)

Updated with the Nueva Ecija travel budget now :)

Hi.. may sakayan ba ng Bus from Gapan City to Tarlac City? Thanks

Yes, I'm pretty sure there is at the Cabanatuan Bus Terminal

Hello, planning to go to talavera nueva ecija. May biyahe kaya ng madaling araw? at pede kayang balikan ng manila? same day? how much kaya ang fare at gano kalayo. thanks!

Better call the bus stations to confirm if they have trips to Talavera very early in the morning. You may also ask them about the fare and travel time.

Hi! Great guide! We plan on going to nueva for this summer, how do we commute from there back to Manila?

They have buses to Manila at the main terminal of Cabanatuan :)

Hi! What time po earliest trip papuntang Nueva Ecija?

Hi Jazzilyn, please call the bus companies for the schedule :)

Hi Admin! :) thank you very much for featuring my hometown, Nueva Ecija. By the way, there's a new inclusion in the tourist spots in Nueva Ecija. The Isdaan Floating Resto-Fun Park located along Maharlika Highway, Barangay Bagong Silang, Talavera, Nueva Ecija is now open. It is a 9-hectare restaurant-park complex which features gigantic statues like Buddhas, Zodiac Sign Symbols, Hulk, genie, golden carabao, monkies and many more, an underwater bridge, floating huts, and the famous "Tacsiyapo" wall. It a fun place to visit where you can savor authentic Filipino dishes and be amazed at the wonderful works of art scattered around the park.

Thanks for sharing! Will try and check it out next time I visit NE :)

Hi, do you know how much is the bus fare from Pasay to San Isidro?

Hi Charrrlotte, please contact the bus companies I listed above for an updated fare :)

Can you post driving instructions from cubao and going to cabanatuan via nlex sctex. I was also told to avoid passing gapan as the traffic is heavy there

Hi Tonyo, the best way is to use waze :)

Hi guys, is anyone there know how to go from sm cabanatuan to crystal waves hotel and resort by commuting? Thank you for answering.

Hi Rose, you may contact them using the number I provided above on how to get to Crystal Waves from Cabanatuan City.

Hi.. How much will it cost riding taxi from naia to nueva ecija?

Hi April, I actually haven't tried commuting by taxi from NAIA to Nueva Ecija but I imagine it would be extremely expensive. I read somewhere that it would take about 3,000 pesos plus toll fee--but that was four years ago. Expect to pay more now.

What is the best time to vist NFA Museum po? And How long po yung vacation para maikot po yung NFA Museum?

Any time is good, it will take less than an hour to see everything in the NFA Museum

How about if you have a place to stay in aliaga, Nueva ecija. Among the places that you mentioned, which destination is nearest aliaga, Nueva ecija?

Hi, unfortunately there's not much accommodations in Aliaga, the nearest ones would be those in Cabanatuan City

Good morning. May I ask if how can I reach the Fort Magsaysay from Cabanatuan?

Hi, there's a regular jeepney route from Cabanatuan City to Fort Magsaysay's South Gate. Jeep terminal is located at the back of Shell Crossing.

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A Backpacker’s Itinerary For 10 Days In Luzon, Philippines

Quick links, day 1: touchdown in manila, day 2-3: from laoag to vigan, day 4 and 5: make your way to sagada by bus(es), day 5 and 6: get lost amidst the stunning rice terraces of batad, day 7: return to manila and head east to legazpi, day 8: dive with whale sharks in donsol, day 9: surf’s up in real quezon, day 10: end your trip with fond memories of luzon.

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The tropical paradise of Philippines is often associated with amazing beach resorts, lush sweltering rainforests and secluded islands. With friendly locals and a wide range of travel options catering to all budgets, this is one place that appeals to everyone.

In this itinerary, you’ll learn what to see and do in Luzon, a huge island in the north of the Philippines. Home to ancient rice terraces, colonial towns and the chaotic sprawl of Metro Manila, you’ll visit the main highlights of the island in an ambitious 10-day trip.

For most travellers, Manila is often the first stop when arriving by plane. The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (known locally as NINA) is made up of 4 terminals serving both international and domestic airlines.

Getting out of NINA, there’s enough places to see in Manila for at least a day. Intramuros is a small preserved section of town that retains its Spanish architecture, albeit crumbling at some parts. You’ll find respite from the madness of downtown Manila, as you explore the small alleys and local businesses serving this small community. Walk on to the end of the town and explore Fort Santiago, which was first built by the Spanish to guard the newly established walled city of Manila.

After a few hours of walking the streets and peeking into churches, head out and visit the SM Mall of Asia . Touted as one of Asia’s largest malls, this is where you can do a spot of shopping in case you forgot to bring something, or grab a bite from one of the restaurants there. Once done, take a walk along the Roxas Boulevard, a 7.6km-long seaside promenade running along the Manila Bay. On Fridays and weekend evenings, the promenade is filled with locals chilling and digging into street food from the many vendors lining the path.

As you head back towards Intramuros, take a right at the end of the Roxas Boulevard and visit Rizal Park. As the day winds down, locals gather in force at this expansive park to picnic and people watch. Grab some food and settle down on the grass patch as well, or see if there’s a concert happening in the nearby open-air auditorium. Filipinos love their music, and regular performances happen in this venue.

End the night with excellent local cuisine and cheap beers at Hott Asia Bazaar . Popular with locals with a party atmosphere to boot, this is not on most tourist itineraries, so come prepared to make friends with Filipinos. But this is just your first day, so take stock of your alcohol intake and get ready to fly out the next day – you’ll be in the northern side of Luzon in less than 12 hours time!

Additional information

If you have more than just a hurried day, check out Girl, Unspotted for some ideas on how to spend 3 days in Manila .

Where to stay in Manila?

Makati Junction Hostel offers clean and cheap dormitory beds for budget travellers. There’s also a nice common area that doubles up as a cafe, so you can chill there with fellow travellers. Check the latest rates and available rooms here .

For a nicer place to stay, the Picasso Boutique Serviced Residences offers a comfortable stay at affordable rates. Check out the latest rates and available rooms here .

Manila is a big city, and there’s many more options all over town. These are the latest deals on Booking.com:

Getting around Laoag

Situated in the northwest corner of Luzon, the province of Ilocos is subdivided into the north (Ilocos Norte) and south (Ilocos Sur). The capital of Ilocos Norte is Laoag, a relatively small city that’s big enough to get by as a transportation hub.

Most travellers come in by plane. From the airport, take a 15 minute tricycle to the city centre. Alternatively, overnight buses from the Cubao Bus Terminal in Manila start from 800 Pesos, and take between 10 to 13 hours for the trip. Check out Farinas , Florida and Partas for the latest schedules and fares.

Laoag is a relatively small city with a decent local market and colonial architecture. The main highlight of Ilocos Norte is outside Laoag, though. From anywhere in town, you can hail a tricycle (literally on the street) and immediately embark on a half-day tour around the region. Of course, you can also DIY it with buses, which is a lot more painful to arrange.

If you’re planning to head out to sightsee, check out:

• Pagudpud, a beach with fine white sand comparable to the more famous Boracay beach
• Bangui Windmills, which are modern ones (not the quaint Dutch type)
• Paoay, a small town famed for its church
• The Patapat Viaduct, which hugs the northern coastline

Most tricycle drivers will take you on a planned route if you can’t decide. For 600 Pesos, you can choose to travel to:

• The South Tour – Cape Bojeador Lighthouse, Kapurpurawan Rock Formation & Bangui Windmills
• The North Tour – Kabigan Falls, Bantay Abot Cave, Patapat Viaduct, Blue Lagoon Beach

Generally tricycles in the Philippines allow for 2 passengers in the carriage, although it can get a bit squeezy. A third passenger can ride as a pillion on the motorcycle. Sharing costs will bring down the price per passenger, at the expense of comfort of course.

Travelling to Vigan

Vigan is another excellent day-trip destination from Laoag. Famed for its well-preserved Spanish colonial street stretching across half a kilometer, the Calle Crisologo is flanked by a row of two storey shophouses selling mostly tourist trinkets. No vehicles are allowed on it, so you’ll only need to avoid the occasional horse-drawn cart.

To get to Vigan, regular buses leave Laoag every hour from the city bus terminal (2 hours, 130 Pesos, hourly frequency, Partas ). You could spend half a day to explore Vigan, so it’s best to leave early and return to Laoag by evening to catch the Saturday market in the city centre.

Alternatively, you can try to catch an overnight bus leaving Manila to Vigan (10 hours, 750 Pesos, Partas).

For an in-depth look into what to see and do in Vigan, check out Trotterhop’s excellent Vigan Travel Guide .

Where to stay in Laoag?

Laoag is a small city with fewer accommodation options. If you’re not picky about in-room amenities, People’s Inn is newly renovated and located just 10 minutes away from the city centre. It’s also cheaper than most other accommodation options in town. Check here for latest rates and available rooms .

Visit Booking.com for more deals in Laoag and Vigan:

Finding a direct bus route from Laoag to Sagada is almost impossible, given that there is a huge mountain range in between. Instead, you’ll first need to take an overnight bus to Baguio City (6 hours, 466 Pesos, Partas ), which reaches Baguio City at 3am.

From there, take a cab and get to the GL Trans bus terminal, which connects you on the onwards journey from Baguio to Sagada (6 hours, 220 Pesos , departs hourly from 6am to 1pm, GL Trans). For the latter, you’ll need to buy tickets on the bus, as there’s no online reservation channel yet. Rest assured that at 6am, you’ll have plenty of seats to choose from. Enjoy the scenery along this leg of the journey, as you climb higher into the mountains.

Exploring Sagada

Sagada is a small town that runs along an incline, so get ready to huff and puff your way around. In the centre of town, the Tourist Information Centre provides everything – from price-regulated tours to the bus and jeepney timings for outward journeys to Manila, Bantoc and Banaue. It’s well run and provides a fair means of income for a town with a heavy dependence on the tourism industry.

Most tourists take the standard walking tour to visit the hanging coffins near the town cemetery, which is usually coupled with a visit to St Mary’s Church near the town centre. Adventurous trekkers can opt for a 1.5 hour or 3 hour spelunking session in the nearby Sumaguing Caves, which promises to be a thrilling and exhausting experience for most visitors. If you’re short on time however, the Adventure Trail is the best of both worlds, as you get to see the hanging coffins, followed by a 3 hour hike to visit a small easy section of the caves, and then finish off with a cliff jump into a small waterfall.

Getting out of Sagada

While this place deserves more time, you’ll spend at least a night here before taking a scheduled jeepney to Bantoc in the late afternoon. From Bantoc, hop aboard another jeepney to get to Banaue. It sounds more complicated that it really is, so don’t worry! You’ll figure out easily when you’re there. Note that jeepneys will leave early if they fill up ahead of time, so don’t leave everything to the last minute if you’re on a tight schedule.

If you miss the last jeepney connection to Banaue at 1pm, there’s always a 2pm Coda Lines bus service that leaves Sagada for Manila, passing by Banaue en-route. You can usually buy tickets on the spot, although it’s best to reserve a seat in advance for the bus. The Coda Lines office is just a 1-minute walk up from the Tourist Office.

Where to stay in Sagada?

Sagada is a small town, and your best bet is to stay in a guesthouse. Check out Agape Log Cabin and Restaurant, located a short 10 minute walk from the Tourist Information Centre. Find the latest rates and available rooms .

You can also consider these deals from Booking.com:

Banaue, along with the village of Batad, boasts of some of the world’s most amazing rice terraces. The scale is at times unbelievable, as terraces cut across entire mountainsides. With a history stretching back two thousand years, rice farming is not just a touristy thing, but a way of life for the Ifugao people.

While Banaue offers easy access to these rice terraces, Batad holds an even more impressive set of terraces… if you can get there. It’s not easy though. For starters, you’ll need to take a 45 minute hair-raising tricycle ride along twisting steep roads. At certain sections, your tricycle driver will ask you to step out and walk up or down a stretch of slope for your safety.

You’ll eventually come to a point where the road stops. From here, walk in for another 20 minutes to get to the village proper. Guesthouses are scattered around town, so book one ahead or just enquire on the spot. There are no street lights or mobile phone reception in Batad, so it’s wise to get in before dark. Alternatively, engage a guide to help you. There should be plenty of local Ifugao guys on standby at the entrance of the village.

Most people stay in Batad for a day, which gives them enough time to explore the rice terraces here. Neatly carved from steep mountain slopes that slowly ease into a gentle valley, Batad offers a panoramic view of the terraces from literally anywhere in town. You should also hike down to the Tappiya Waterfall, although the steep steps might put a strain on your thigh muscles when climbing back up.

You’ll also need to deal with vertigo at certain spots where the steps descend sharply without anything to hold onto. If possible, carry a hiking stick along, and engage a guide to lead you along the right way down. It takes roughly 3-4 hours for a hike down to the waterfalls and back up, and the going rate for local guides is roughly 1,000 Pesos. There’ll always be a group of tourists who decide to go without a guide, and you can spot them wading through flooded rice fields eventually after losing sight of the trail.

There’s a lot more trekking trails to nearby villages as well, if you’re keen on exploring the area. Just make sure to engage a local guide, as the mountains can be very unforgiving if you get lost at night.

Where to stay in Batad?

As Batad is spread out on a hillside, your choice of accommodation will mean the difference in climbing 20 minutes to your guesthouse, or climbing up to 45 minutes on steep stone steps. The Batad View Inn and Restaurant promises (and delivers) an amazing view of the rice terraces from higher ground, which means an easier time getting there too. You can also choose to stay like a local in an Ifugao hut, which is an unforgettable experience for a slightly higher price. Check here for the latest prices and available rooms .

You can also search Booking.com for more accommodation options:

From Batad, return to Banaue using the same way as you arrived (i.e. 20 minute uphill climb, followed by a 45 minute tricycle ride). Ohayami Transport runs an overnight bus service to Manila (7pm, 490 Pesos, 10 hours, Ohayami Transport ), and the office is located a short uphill walk from the Tourist Office in Banaue.

You’ll reach the Sampaloc bus terminal in Manila the following morning at around 5am. If you’ve got only a week to spare, it’s time to head back home. If you can afford another couple of days, head east to Legazpi.

There are several ways to get there. If you want to save time, make a beeline to the airport and catch the earliest flight out. Alternatively, regular 10-hour bus rides depart regularly from Manila. Alas, you’ll waste a day just watching the world go by from the window of a bus.

Sightseeing in Legazpi

Generally, everything touristy in Legazpi centres around Mount Mayon, an active conical stratovolcano that erupted as recently as early 2018. Two places are especially popular for viewing the volcano – the 16th century church ruins of Cagsawa at the outskirts of the city, or from an elevated vantage point at the top of Ligñon Hill.

When the volcano is not actively erupting, there’s much more to do. If you’re looking for a thrill, you can rent an ATV and rumble up the black volcanic soil towards the mountain. Organised tours can also take you closer to the volcano, instead of just admiring it from afar.

There are also lush rice plantations and interesting villages to explore. Rent a scooter for 800 Pesos per day from Bicol Bike Rental (contact Richard at 09275505828), or hire a private driver if you can afford it. After a week of constant travelling, take some time off to relax as well.

Just one and a half hour away by car, Donsol is one of the best places in the Philippines to watch a whale shark in action. Unlike the touristy whale shark experience in Oslob , Cebu, the scene in Donsal is well regulated by the local marine authorities. They even have an office to enforce responsible whale shark tourism!

Getting from Legazpi to Donsol is relatively easy. Minivans leave for the town at regular intervals throughout the day from 6am. The last van departs at 4pm, although the last van returning from Donsol to Legazpi sets off at 1pm. If you’re intending to visit as a day trip, leave very early or stay overnight in town. Alternatively, rent a scooter (see Day 7 above) and make the journey yourself.

If you have a PADI certificate, or are planning to join a diving course, then there are several dive schools to check out. Giddy’s Place is run by a professional crew with their own equipment, so you know you’re in good hands. They also run a short discovery dive session in shallow coral reefs. Try that out if you don’t have enough time to complete a PADI course.

A full-day leisure dive will run from 6.30am to 3pm, before returning to shore just before 5pm. If you have your own transport waiting, hop onto your bike or car and return to Legazpi. Hurry and catch the last overnight bus back to Manila at 7.30pm or 8.30pm (if available). It’s might be a bit tight, but it’ll squeeze out yet another an extra day!

Where to stay in Legazpi?

As you’ll be catching a couple of buses while staying in Legazpi, it pays to be near the bus station. Lotus Blu, a newly renovated hotel sharing the same building as a shopping mall, is a full-serviced hotel with good views of Mount Mayon. More importantly, it is only a short 5 minute walk away from the bus station. Check here for the latest rates and available rooms .

You can also visit Booking.com to look for discounted deals:

If you had dived the previous day, you shouldn’t take a flight for the next 24 hours. It’s good though, as you have the chance to test out your surfing skills in Real Quezon, which boasts of surf-worthy waves coming from the Pacific Ocean.

Real Quezon is at least 3 hours away from Manila by car. Buses will easily take up to 5 hours for the journey though. Raymond Transport runs this route from their bus terminal in Legarda (5 hours, 160 Pesos, hourly service with no online reservations, Raymond Transport ), or check out the minivan service located nearby for a potentially faster commute (3-4 hours, 220 Pesos, vans leave when filled with passengers).

The Philippines has many more awesome surf spots. Check out the Honeymoon Backpackers’ take on the 10 best places to surf .

Where to stay in Real Quezon?

For the last leg of this trip, end it by spending the night in a campsite. By and large, the most popular place or locals to be at is the PaRK , or the Pacific Recreation Kamp.

Staying overnight at the campsite is pretty affordable. A tent rental will set you back 500 Pesos, and each person adds on another 50 Pesos. If you have your own tent and sleeping bag, it’ll be even cheaper.

Most facilities, like the bathrooms and barbeque pits, are shared. A small cafe is well stocked with cold beer, water and snacks like instant noodles. If you’re too lazy to head down to the nearby wet market, fret not. The proprietors can also prepare hot food like rice and basic Filipino cuisine. That is unlikely, however, as the smell of freshly grilled seafood will tantalise your tastebuds.

If you’re new to surfing, instructors run classes during high tide for a small fee. There’s also a nice beach to chill, mingle around a bonfire, or just soak your feet in the ocean water. It’s therefore no surprise that Real Quezon is a popular weekend getaway for city folks in Manila!

You can also check Booking.com for discounted deals:

At last, your trip across Luzon would have come to an end. It’s been a manic one and a half weeks of overnight buses and outdoor activities. While some people holiday to relax, you might actually recover from this trip by heading back to work!

Alas, Luzon has way too many interesting places to explore and 10 days is barely enough to scratch the surface. If you can spare an extra day in Laoag or Sagada or Banaue, it’ll be definitely worth your while. Otherwise, try out this itinerary and let me know how it worked out for you in the comments!

More information about travelling in Luzon and the Philippines

Is it safe to travel in the philippines.

Luzon is very safe, and isn’t representative of the negative press coverage you read about. Outside of Manila, you’ll most likely be a victim of overpaying a tricycle driver rather than a from a mugging. Just be careful of your belongings, especially in tourist areas like Vigan and Sagada.

Also, don’t do drugs. There is currently a concerted effort by the authorities to stamp out drug abuse, and penalties are harsh. Stick to legal stuff like tobacco and alcohol when in the Philippines, please.

What should I eat in the Philippines?

If you’re seeking a local Filipino experience, you’ll need to have at least one meal at Jollibee. This ubiquitous restaurant is present in almost every street corner in Manila. Of course, Filipino food fans will be aghast at this remark, but it needs to be mentioned nonetheless.

Traditional Filipino cuisine is heavy on rice and meat. Everyone knows Lechon, which is shredded fatty slices of suckling pig. But there’s more than just that! Try pork or chicken adobo, which is shredded meat simmered in garlic, soy sauce and vinegar. Tapsilog is also a local favourite, made of sun-dried pork or beef marinated with salt and other spices, and served with garlic fried rice (sinangag).

Up north in Ilocos, try Bagnet (fried pork skin), Longganisa (pork sausage made up of ground pork fat stuffed in an intestine sausage) and Empandana (crispy fried turnover filled with cabbage, minced pork and sometimes a variety of other ingredients).

For dessert, you have to try halo halo. This sweet icy concoction comes with evaporated milk for that extra oomph. Watch the calories though, they accumulate fast if you have it every day!

Do I need to reserve bus tickets, and where can I do so?

It’s best to reserve bus tickets, but there will be many operators who still sell their tickets on the bus or at the counter only. Check Biyaheroes and PHBus for the list of operators who sell their tickets online.

What are the overnight buses like?

First Class overnight buses are not, as they suggest, first class. Forget luxury seats and onboard toilets though. Mostly it’s just a normal bus with the occasional movie screening during the day.

Every few hours, long distance buses will stop for toilet and snack breaks. Usually at around 1am or so, the lights will turn on to rouse bleary-eyed passengers. As with most buses in tropical countries, the air-conditioning is set to the lowest temperature dial. If you’re afraid of the cold, bring along a sweater, scarf or small blanket. Long pants and socks are also advisable if you’re petrified of cold temperatures.

Any tips especially for travelling in the Philippines?

• As with many Southeast and East Asian cultures, saving face is important for Filipinos. Avoid direct confrontations, as it will seldom end well for you. Work towards a win-win situation, and smile throughout your ordeal.
• Be patient, as some locals may have a different concept of time. While many service providers are reliable, they might just take more time to reply to you, or tend to your requests. You can insist on service or a response, but again, so it with a smile.
• In Manila, mass public transport like jeepneys might be cumbersome as traffic snarls will delay your commute. Use metered taxis or private car hire apps like Uber and Grab instead.
• Avoid talking about politics and policies initiated by the current government. Just enjoy the scenery and travel experiences, and leave the politicking to world leaders and internet trolls.

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2 Replies to “A Backpacker’s Itinerary For 10 Days In Luzon, Philippines”

The Philippines wasn’t even really on my radar until I found out a friend is living on an island teaching people to dive, and now I can’t get there fast enough! It looks like an incredibly diverse country. Thanks for the tips 🙂

Hello, This is a lovely website, thank you for taking the time to write the article. Have a fantatstic day.

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8 Must-See Tourist Spots in Luzon for Philippines Travel

There's something to be said about going slightly off the beaten path with your kids. One of our favorite vacations over the years was visiting the tourist spots in Luzon, Philippines.

Now, I wouldn't necessarily say that the Philippines is off the beaten path, as there are plenty of visitors who go there every year, but the idea of Philippines travel doesn't exactly scream "family travel," either. But one thing I've learned about traveling internationally with kids is that a place doesn't have to theme parks or all-inclusive resorts to be Family friendly. The Philippines would say that it's a great place to visit. Especially with your kids.

Over the course of our travels, we've explored the bustling city of Manila, and experienced the relaxed island feel of Puerto Princesa . Through it all we've definitely felt there's something special about the Philippines. With its welcoming culture, tropical climate, and beautiful scenery, Philippines travel is well-worth doing at least once in your life.

This post was updated on March 21, 2020.

This post may contain affiliate links. That means I may receive a small commission if you click on the link and purchase something. But don't worry, this will not result in any extra costs to you.

Table of Contents

Getting to the Philippines, and getting around Luzon

We visited the tourist spots in Luzon in 2012, when my step-son was fourteen and my daughter was not yet two. We had so much fun! There were so many interesting places to see and things to do. And since my husband's family comes from the Philippines, there was a personal connection for us too.

If you're trying to decide where to take your family for vacation, you may want to consider visiting the tourist spots in Luzon, Philippines. The island of Luzon is accessible by air at the Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport . Flights from international destinations fly there daily.

Getting around Luzon may be challenging, if you don't have a private driver. While buses do travel to various destinations around Luzon, you'll have more flexibility with a private car and driver. Accommodations in Luzon can be found throughout the island. You can also refer to the Philippines guide book for more ideas of where to stay and where to go in Luzon.

Traveling to other countries in Southeast Asia? Read my Southeast Asia posts for helpful tips.

Visiting the tourist spots in Luzon

Although the initial flight costs to the Philippines may be more expensive than places like Europe or Mexico, the dollar is strong over there. So the overall trip costs wouldn't be too different from any other trip.

Plus, English is pretty widely spoken in the Philippines. Unless you're spending time in the rural areas, most people speak English, and are more than happy to practice with you. However, it doesn't help to pick up a Tagalog phrasebook to learn a few helpful phrases. It will help you experience the local culture better .

For families planning to visit the Philippines, I've put together a few suggestions for tourist spots in Luzon that families can visit. Here are my picks for Philippines travel ideas for your next family trip:

Ready for a change? Take the first step to living a life of full time travel.

1. See the historical tourist spots in Luzon at Intramuros

One of the more obvious tourist spots in Luzon is the capital city of Manila . Within that city, the old historic part is called Intramuros. It's characterized by a wall that surrounds the area, and is still full of some of the old Spanish-style architecture in some of its buildings. When we were there, we decided to go all-out tourist mode and rent a  kalesa  to take us around Intramuros. 

Kalesas  are traditional horse-drawn carriages, and one of the things I liked about riding them is that you go at a much slower pace than a car, which makes it easier to look around and take in the sites. Plus, my kids loved riding around in a horse-drawn carriage.

2. Enjoy the views at Manila Bay

If you're looking for a nice place to get some lunch in Manila, then you should definitely head to Manila Bay, another one of the popular tourist spots in Luzon. The restaurants in this area are known for their seafood.

On our trip, we decided to stop by Harbor View Restaurant. Their restaurant includes a covered pier, which gives you the chance to dine right on the water. We ate to our heart's content on crabs and seafood, as well as traditional Filipino dishes like  kare-kare  and  halo-halo .

3. Spend an afternoon at Rizal Park

One of the heroes of the Philippines, Jose Rizal, has a park dedicated to him in the central coastal part of Manila. Parks are a great way for families to relax when they're doing Philippines travel.

In terms of family friendly tourist spots in Luzon, we especially liked Rizal Park for the fountain found in the center of the park. Rizal Park also has memorials dedicated to Jose Rizal, so this was also a way for my kids to learn about their Filipino heritage.

4. Get your shopping on at Mall of Asia

Filipinos  love  their shopping. It's evident in the abundance of malls throughout the Philippines. Manila is no exception. In fact, Manila has the eleventh largest mall in the world, called the Mall of Asia. When we were in the city, we spent an afternoon shopping at the Mall of Asia, a large open area mall with amenities like an ice skating rink, a ferris wheel, and even an arena!

Of course, while we were there, we spent most of our time at the shops. It was just so big, I think we covered just a tiny corner of the place. If you're traveling with little kids, a mall is a great place for them to run around.

5. See Taal Volcano, the world's smallest volcano

If you're wanting some less busy tourist spots in Luzon, head out of the city of Manila. Just about an hour's drive from Manila is the Taal Volcano, considered the world's smallest volcano. It's set in the middle of Lake Taal, and is accessible by boat. For us, we decided to forgo the boat ride to the volcano, and instead headed to nearby Tagaytay, where you can catch postcard-worthy views of the volcano.

6. Visit tourist spots in Luzon at Subic Bay

My husband's parents met in Subic Bay, a military base in the Philippines on the coast of the island of Luzon, west of Manila. His dad was in the Navy, and his mom was working on the base. Since the base held such an important place in my husband's history, we decided to stop by there and see what it was all about.

These days, all the former US military bases in the Philippines have been turned into duty-free shopping areas (remember how I said Filipinos love their shopping?), so they are all overflowing with shopping malls and visitors coming in droves to take advantage of tax-free shopping. Subic Bay has become one of the frequently visited tourist spots in Luzon, by foreigners and Filipinos alike.

Despite the commercial aspect of former bases like Subic Bay, there are still some naturally beautiful parts of the area. Subic Bay, in particular, is quite peaceful to look at in the early mornings, before the visitors come.

7. Explore the hill town of Baguio

Also on the island of Luzon, and north of Manila, is the hill town of Baguio. It's a nice respite from the hot craziness that is Manila. When we visited, it was cool and rainy, and I was actually wishing I had brought warmer clothes to the Philippines!

There are plenty of interesting things for families to see in Baguio, including a botanical garden, Burnham Park (Baguio's version of Central Park), and John Hay Air Base (a former US military base-turned museum). It rained most of the time we were there, but we were lucky to have rented a car, so the rain didn't bother us too much.

8. Take and excursion to Mines View Park

Just outside of Baguio is Mines View Park, which overlooks the abandoned gold mines and copper mines near the town of Igoton. The area is a nice place for a picnic and to catch scenic views of mountains and hills. And when we visited, the climate was definitely several degrees cooler than Manila.

Not sure what to pack for your Philippines trip? Check out our essential items for travel .

Experiencing all the tourist spots in Luzon with our kids

Philippines travel may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of family travel, but the country definitely has plenty of family-friendly activities for you to enjoy. We loved our time exploring all the tourist spots in Luzon with our kids, and can't wait to visit again.

Have you had a chance to experience travel in the Philippines with your family? Share your stories with me!

Is the Philippines part of a bigger family travel adventure for you? Use my ebook,  Hey Kids, Let’s Go Travel!  as a resource for tools, advice, and action steps for planning your trip.

Need help thinking through how to budget for a family trip? My  Travel Budget Worksheet  is just the tool you need! Click  here  to receive your free copy by signing up for my newsletter.

Want to connect with me on social media? Find me on Facebook , Instagram , Pinterest , and Twitter. And for those of you who are dedicated to traveling more responsibly, sustainably, and ethically, join over 200 like-minded families on my Facebook group, Responsible Family Travel .

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Tourist spots in mindanao.

Tourist Spots in Mindanao

Top Tourist Spots in Mindanao

Note: This post is progressive, and we will still add more Tourist Spots in Mindanao.

Top Must-see Destinations/Tourist Spots in Mindanao

Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. These three major islands of the country have always been proud to offer their unique places as tourist destinations. In this article, I would like to focus on the top tourist spots in Mindanao. This part of the country is perhaps one of the least visited in tourism since it is a bit farm compared to the other if one comes from the Metropolitan. Far from the knowledge of many people that this place is heaven-sent in terms of natural resources and scenic spots to witness let’s go for a fantastic tour of this article.

Cagayan de Oro City, White Water Rafting [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY

Whether it is tubing, water rafting, or any other water sport, your adrenaline will be tested. CDO’s rocky and wild areas will test your patience, strength, and perseverance; ultimately, a must-try adventure is achieved.

• Cagayan de Oro Travel Guide
• White Water Rafting in Cagayan de Oro

Sinulom Waterfalls in Cagayan de Oro [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

BRITANNIA GROUP OF ISLANDS IN SAN AGUSTIN, SURIGAO DEL SUR 

With 24 islets, getting to the Brittania Group of Islands is exciting. Explore the beautiful beaches without spending too much! The turquoise color of the water, matched with the powdery sand, is what these islets are all about.

The Sunken Cemetery in Camiguin [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

CAMIGUIN ISLAND

A long white sand surrounded by pristine clear water will undeniably enthrall tourists. Thus making Camiguin one of the top tourist spots in Mindanao. Aside from the beach life, you may also want to visit other notable places such as the Katibawan Falls and the Catarman Church Ruins.

• Camiguin Island Travel Guide
• Camiguin Lanzones Festival
• Camiguin Resorts and Hotels 

White Beach in Camiguin [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

Mantigue Island in Camiguin [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

COTABATO CITY

If it is culture immersion that you are searching for, heading to Cotabato City is the key. In this place, the teaming culture and tradition of the Muslims can be seen. You may also go to the Bollkiah Mosque and witness the grand beauty of it.

Dakak Beach Resort [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

DAPITAN, ZAMBOANGA DEL NORTE

If marine diversity is what you are after, then head to Dakak Park and Beach Resort and be mesmerized by the vibrant and teeming life of fishes and corals. On the other hand, if it is diving that you are after, then Dapitan will be the suited spot for you.

Must read: Dapitan City Travel Guide

People’s Park in Davao City [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

Taking pride as one of Mindanao’s most well-preserved and peaceful cities, there are so many striking attractions to look forward to seeing and experiencing in Davao. There are Eden Mountain Resort, Crocodile Park, Philippine National Eagle, Mt. Apo, People’s Park, and Deca Wakeboard Park.

• Davao City Tourist Spots | Travel Guide
• People’s Park Davao
• Davao Hotels
• Davao Tourist Spots
• Davao White Water Rafting
•  Davao Crocodile Park 
• Davao Kadayawan Festival

White Water rafting in Davao [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

DINAGAT ISLAND

The hiking and diving activity in this part of Surigao is exciting enough to be tried by any visitor. Dinagat Island may be small, but it is a gem in the middle of the sea. Plus, the indigenous people in the area will make you stay comfortable and at home.

Hinatuan Enchanted River in Surigao del Sur [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

HINATUAN ENCHANTED RIVER IN SURIGAO DEL SUR 

Take on a boating adventure as you head to the Enchanted River. If you like, you may even take some swimming time. The river’s cleanliness and natural turquoise color make it enchanting. The cold water it has is enough to take away anyone’s stress feeling.

Hinatuan Enchanted River

PAGADIAN CITY 

Pagadian City is alive and vibrant, just like the other neighboring cities. As you go here, you can enjoy the place and, at the same time, meet the welcoming people of the town. As a part of the top tourist spots in Mindanao, I know that the place will never disappoint you.

Mimbalut Falls in Iligan City [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

WATERFALLS IN ILIGAN CITY

I have always read about Maria Cristina Falls since I was young. I have read it in elementary textbooks, and from then, I was already eager to see the place. Now, I can say that Iligan City deserves its label as the City of Majestic Waterfalls. With the Maria Cristina Falls, Mimbalut Falls and Tinago Falls in one city, it is a must-visit spot.

• Iligan Travel Guide
• Maria Cristina Falls
• Tinago Falls

Maria Cristina Falls in Iligan City [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

Tinago Falls in Iligan City [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

MATI CITY IN DAVAO ORIENTAL 

A long stretch of fine sand on a beach invites tourists to jump and enjoy the clear water. You have to be careful since the waves are high, making it a hit for water sports enthusiasts such as surfers.

MT. HAMIGUITAN IN DAVAO ORIENTAL

Visiting one of the lists of UNESCO’s World Heritage seems exciting, right? Well, Mt. Hamiguitan in Davao Oriental is part of the file and is a haven for all nature lovers. The sparkling green surroundings, the humming of birds, and the overall serenity of the place are heavenly.

Gumasa Beach in Glan, Sarangani [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

GUMASA BEACH, GLAN, SARANGANI 

A place as spectacular as Boracay, this is what Gumasa Beach is all about. What is good about it is that it is not as crowded as other famous beaches. So, you may enjoy the beauty of the place without worrying about the flock of people.

Must Read: Gumasa Beach Resorts | Travel Guide  

Lake Sebu in South Cotabato [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

LAKE SEBU, SOUTH COTABATO

Never leave Mindanao without visiting one of its famous cultural landscapes- Lake Sebu. Lake Sebu is known for its three clear, tranquil lakes, luscious food offered, and thrilling zipline adventure.

Lake Sebu, South Cotabato Travel Guide

7 Falls in Lake Sebu

Lake Sebu Waterfalls [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

LAKE HOLON, SOUTH COTABATO

A camping site near Lake Holon is not only romantic but also extraordinarily serene and exhilarating. The green environment around the lake adds to the total beauty of the place. May it be with your family or friends, you will for sure enjoy your stay here.

MALAMAWI ISLAND, BASILAN  

The Island of Malamawi in Basilan may not be known to many, but I must say that as one of the top tourist destinations in this list, the place has reserved something magical and beautiful for visitors. For one, the unexplored beaches of the area are merely spectacular.

Maxima Aqua Fun in Samal Island, Davao del Norte [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

SAMAL ISLAND, DAVAO DEL NORTE 

Several beach resorts are here, including Chema’s by the Sea, Bali-Bali Beach, and Pearl Farm. The long stretch of creamy powdery sand will make you want to stay here for good. Not to mention the bright and inviting water.

• Samal Island Travel Guide
• Samal Island Resorts, Beaches, and Hotel

Magpupungko Rock Pool in Siargao [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ] Photo by Agustin Mendez

SIARGAO IN SURIGAO DEL NORTE

The island of Siargao has been making a name as one of the top tourist destinations in the country. No wonder many celebrities and well-known personalities will usually include this one as a part of their top vacation list. What makes the place unique is its perfect haven for surfers because of the big waves and the pristine beaches.

• Siargao Travel Guide
• Siargao Tourist Spots
• Siargao List of Resorts and Hotels

SOHOTON IN SURIGAO DEL NORTE 

The diversity of marine creatures and the lush green surrounding of Sohotan is impeccable. It has lakes, lagoons, and parks, making it ideal for boating, fishing, swimming, camping, and even picnics.

Baras Bird Sanctuary in Tacurong, Sultan Kudarat  [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

BARAS BIRD SANCTUARY, IN TACURONG, SULTAN KUDARAT

Must read: Baras Bird Sanctuary Travel Guide

TAWI-TAWI  

You can never honestly say that you somehow had a meaningful experience in Tawi Tawi if you haven’t visited Bud Bongao or Bonggao Peak. Bud Bongao is distinguished as a holy mountain of Tawi-Tawi since it is where the locals climb to contemplate.

Tinuy-an Falls in Bislig, Surigao del Sur [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

TINUY-AN FALLS IN BISLIG, SURIGAO DEL SUR

The Tinuy-an Falls is comparable to the Niagara Falls of the United States. Believe me, as you watch the majestic flow of water as it hits the ground along with the sound that it creates, you will feel nothing but peace and refreshing.

Must read: Tinuy-an Falls Travel Guide

• ZAMBOANGA CITY

One of the tourist spots in Mindanao is the City of Zamboanga. Being here will make one feel that the Spanish influence still runs in the blood, culture, and environment of the people and the place. For natural areas, the Pink Beach in Sta. Cruz of this town is also beautiful.

Hobbit House in Kitanglad Mountain Range, Bukidnon [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

KITANGLAD MOUNTAIN RANGE, BUKIDNON 

The Mt.Kitanglad and Mt. Dulang-Dulang will bring out the adventurous part of you. May it be mountain climbing or visiting the haven of the Philippine eagle, both of these activities can make your vacation a fulfilling one.

DAHILAYAN IN BUKIDNON

Just 2 hours away from Cagayan de Oro City, Bukidnon is also a place to explore. Apart from Dahilayan, you can also visit the Hobbit House.

Must read: Dahilayan Travel Guide

Getting to know and visiting the top tourist spots in Mindanao are two different stories. No matter how much I’d describe it here, no words could do justice to the actual beauty of the places. That is why I highly urge you to visit these places.

The blogger at Tinago Falls in Iligan [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

Travel Tips When Visiting Various Tourist Spots in Mindanao

Many are scared they heard Mindanao. Mindanao is relatively safe. I had visited numerous tourist spots in Mindanao, and I didn’t experience any problems for each of my travels. Of course, every traveler must exercise the necessary precautions when visiting a new place, including all places in the world.

In line with the above, we recommend the following if you plan to visit any tourist spots in Mindanao.

• Research. Before your trip, it is imperative to research the place before hitting the road. You should know if there is a pending advisory at the place. Learn the bus schedules, especially the last trip, etc. Many daring tourists meet some accidents because they miss the last bus and are forced to sleep on the street or at the terminal.
• Contact the Local Tourism Office. This office will give you sound advice on where to go or whether to go in certain seasons.
• Avail the services of accredited tour operators. Let’s face it: you need a guide in some places, and you cannot do it alone.
• Get some travel insurance. Just a few more bucks will surely save you from any unforeseen accidents.
• Check and recheck the information you get online. Not all travel bloggers who wrote about the place have been there. This is one of the reasons why I put my pics on my blog pages as much as possible to show the readers researching that I had been in the place.
• Ask. Try to be friendly and talk to the locals when you reach the place. They can provide you with priceless pieces of information and tips.

Pin Me! [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

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Top 25 Must-Visit Luzon Tourist Spots

Ready to embark on an unforgettable journey? 

Let’s set our sights on Luzon, the largest island in the Philippines. This gem is more than just a geographical marvel—it’s a vibrant tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty.

Luzon is the heart and soul of the Philippines, pulsating with life and teeming with diversity. From the bustling metropolis of Manila to the tranquil terraces of Banaue, Luzon offers a spectrum of experiences that cater to every kind of traveler.

Why Luzon, you ask? Well, Luzon isn’t just a destination—it’s an adventure. It’s where the past and the present collide, where the mountains meet the sea, and where every turn is a new discovery. 

So, buckle up, because Luzon is not just a place to visit—it’s a place to explore, to experience, and most importantly, to remember.

Table of Contents

Ready to explore? Let’s dive into the top 15 must-visit spots in Luzon that you absolutely can’t miss!

1. Manila City

Ah, Manila! The bustling capital of the Philippines is a vibrant mix of the old and the new.

A vibrant tapestry of the old and new, Manila has skyscrapers that stand tall next to Spanish-era architecture, where traditional markets meet modern shopping malls, and where the local food scene ranges from street-side stalls to high-end restaurants. 

Step back in time as you enter Intramuros, the “Walled City” within Manila. This historic district, founded by the Spanish in the 16th century, is a time capsule of the Philippines’ colonial past. Walk along its cobblestone streets, and you’ll find well-preserved examples of Spanish architecture, including Manila Cathedral and Fort Santiago. 

Visit Casa Manila to get a glimpse of how the elite lived during the colonial era. Intramuros is not just about history—it’s also a hub of vibrant cafés, museums, and cultural performances. Walking through its walls is like flipping through the pages of a history book, where every corner tells a tale!

Here’s what you can expect:

• Key attractions and activities: Explore Intramuros , the historic heart of Manila, or shop till you drop at SM Mall of Asia, one of the largest malls in the world. Don’t forget to try the local street food! Here’s our list of the top things to do in Manila .
• Travel duration, routes, and transportation options: Manila is accessible via air, land, and sea. Once you’re in the city, jeepneys, tricycles, and Grab are popular modes of transport.

Pro Tip: Traffic can be heavy, so plan your day accordingly!

Don’t Miss Rizal Park!

Next, we head to Rizal Park, a historical landmark in Manila.

• Key attractions and activities: Visit the Rizal Monument, stroll through the beautiful gardens, or watch the mesmerizing Musical Fountain Show.
• Travel duration, routes, and transportation options: Rizal Park is located in Manila and is easily accessible by jeepney, taxi, or on foot.

Local Tip: Don’t miss the Sunday morning flag-raising ceremony!

2. Palawan Island

Next stop, Palawan Island! Known as the “Last Frontier of the Philippines”, it’s a paradise for nature lovers.

A gem in the Southwest Philippines, Palawan Island is a slice of paradise known for its unparalleled natural beauty. With a diverse landscape ranging from pristine beaches to towering limestone cliffs, it offers an unforgettable tropical escape. 

Dive into crystal-clear waters to discover vibrant coral reefs in Coron or tread the virgin forests teeming with exotic wildlife. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Palawan Island has something for everyone!

One of Palawan’s most iconic attractions, the Puerto Princesa Underground River, is a sight to behold. This UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature boasts an 8.2-kilometer navigable subterranean river that winds through a spectacular cave system. 

As your boat glides through the cavernous spaces, you’ll be awestruck by stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations resembling curtains, mushrooms, and even religious figures!

• Key attractions and activities : Visit Puerto Princesa’s Underground River , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or go island hopping in El Nido and Coron. Snorkeling and diving are must-dos!
• Travel duration, routes, and transportation options: Palawan is a 1-hour flight from Manila. Tricycles, vans, and boats are common transport options.

Local Tip: Don’t miss the chance to try Tamilok, a local delicacy! It’s one of the things to do in Puerto Princesa that you can’t miss. (Here’s the best time to visit Palawan !)

3. Baguio Highlands

Welcome to the “Summer Capital of the Philippines”, Baguio! It’s the perfect escape from the tropical heat.

It is a breath of fresh air amidst the tropical country. Sitting approximately 1,540 meters above sea level in the mountains of Luzon, this city boasts cool weather, refreshing pine-scented air, and stunning panoramic views. 

Baguio is home to a wealth of attractions including Burnham Park, where you can paddle around a peaceful lagoon, and Mines View Park, offering a fantastic vista of the mountainous region. Wander through the lush Botanical Garden or step into the vibrant world of the Ibaloi people at the Tam-Awan Village. 

For art enthusiasts, a visit to the BenCab Museum is a must. With its beautiful landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm locals, Baguio City is a charm-filled destination that leaves a lasting impression.

• Key attractions and activities: Visit the Botanical Garden , take a boat ride in Burnham Park , or shop for local handicrafts at the Baguio Market.
• Travel duration, routes, and transportation options: Baguio is a 4-6 hour bus ride from Manila . Taxis and jeepneys are readily available.

Expert Tip: Pack a jacket! Baguio’s weather can be quite chilly.

4. Donsol Whale Sharks

Get ready for an adventure in Donsol, the “Whale Shark Capital of the World”! Donsol is a municipality in the province of Sorsogon found in the southern part of Luzon. Unlike in Oslob, Cebu , Donsol promotes an ethical and sustainable whale shark encounter.

From November to June, the gentle giants, locally known as “butanding,” gather in the waters around Donsol, offering tourists a unique opportunity to swim alongside them. Feel the rush of adrenaline as you plunge into the turquoise waters and come face-to-face with these majestic creatures, each one growing up to 10 meters long! 

This is not a staged spectacle but a natural encounter, making it even more awe-inspiring. Donsol’s whale shark interaction is not only an exciting adventure but also promotes sustainable tourism and conservation efforts for these endangered species. Your visit here isn’t just a vacation; it’s a contribution to a valuable cause.

• Key attractions and activities: Swim with the gentle giants, the whale sharks, or explore the stunning firefly river.
• Travel duration, routes, and transportation options: Donsol is a 10-hour bus ride from Manila. Tricycles are the main mode of transport.

Pro Tip: The best time to see whale sharks is from November to June.

5. Binondo Chinatown

If you’re into Chinese Food, check out Binondo, the world’s oldest Chinatown! It was established more than 400 years ago. Ryk and I love staying at this area whenever we visit Manila. The food is awesome and the best restaurants are only a few minutes walk away from each other.

Right in the heart of Manila in Binondo, Chinatown is bustling district filled with rich culture and history that offers a vibrant fusion of Filipino and Chinese influences. 

Wander down the busy streets and alleyways, and you’ll find traditional Chinese medicine shops, colorful lantern-lit stores, and temples side by side with Filipino market stalls.

But Binondo is best known for its food scene. Foodies will delight in the assortment of authentic Chinese and Filipino-Chinese culinary treats, from tasty dumplings and delectable roast meats to sweet pastries and refreshing drinks. 

The famous Binondo Food Crawl is a must-try! Whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or a culinary adventurer, a visit to Binondo Chinatown guarantees an exciting sensory overload that will keep you coming back for more.

• Key attractions and activities: Try authentic Chinese food, visit the beautiful temples, or shop for unique souvenirs.
• Travel duration, routes, and transportation options: Binondo is located in Manila and is easily accessible by jeepney, taxi, or on foot.

Local Tip: Don’t leave without trying the famous Xiao Long Bao!

6. Sabang Beach, Baler

Welcome to the surfer’s paradise , Sabang Beach in Baler! Aside from La Union, Baler is another must visit if you’re into surfing. Book one of the Baler beach resorts and enjoy your surfing vacation!

But Sabang Beach is more than just a surfing hotspot; it’s also an idyllic escape for beach lovers. Its long stretch of golden sandy shores, lined with towering coconut trees, is perfect for a leisurely walk or for lounging around to soak up the tropical sun.

Nearby, you can find local restaurants serving fresh seafood and other Filipino delicacies. As the sun sets, the beach transforms into a vibrant scene with bonfires, live music, and a warm, welcoming community of locals and travelers. 

Whether you’re catching waves or catching sunsets, Sabang Beach in Baler offers a laid-back beach getaway like no other

• Key attractions and activities: Catch some waves, relax on the sandy beach, or visit the nearby Ermita Hill for a panoramic view of Baler Bay.
• Travel duration, routes, and transportation options: Baler is a 5-6 hour drive from Manila. Once there, tricycles are the main mode of transport.

Pro Tip: The best time to surf is from October to February.

7. Masungi Georeserve

Masungi Georeserve is a real gem tucked away in the rainforests of Rizal. It’s a conservation area and a rustic rock garden all rolled into one. The name comes from the word “masungki” which means “spiked”. It’s a perfect fit for the place because of the sprawling limestone landscape you’ll find there.

This place is a sanctuary where you can chill with nature and recharge your batteries. You can wander through the pathways and bump into all sorts of wildlife and plant species. You can enjoy some light snacks before you exit the trail.

The Georeserve is not just about the stunning environment, it’s also about the rich heritage and life of the local community. So, if you’re looking for a place to unwind and learn a thing or two, it is the spot for you.

Plus, it’s home to more than 400 documented species of flora and fauna.

• Key attractions and activities: Hike through the stunning karst landscape, cross the rope courses, or relax in the unique hammocks.
• Travel duration, routes, and transportation options: Masungi is a 1-2 hour drive from Manila. Private vehicles are the best way to get there.

Pro Tip: Book your visit in advance as walk-ins are not allowed.

8. Mt. Pinatubo

Next, we head to Mt. Pinatubo, a beautiful yet powerful reminder of Mother Nature’s force.

Mt. Pinatubo is one of those places that’s got a wild past but is now a total must-visit. Back in the 90s, it was known for one of the biggest natural disasters, but today, it’s one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the Philippines. 

Just a few hours away from the bustling city of Manila, Mt. Pinatubo is all about the thrill and the chill. You get to ride a 4×4 on ashen terrain, trek up to the mountain’s crater, and then be greeted by the lake’s sparkling turquoise waters. 

It’s definitely going to be a hot hike, but the reward after is well worth it. And hey, near the base of the volcano is a hot spring spa that uses volcanic ash believed to have healing properties, perfect for aching muscles after a tiring hike.

So, if you’re up for an adventure, it is the place to be.

• Key attractions and activities: Trek to the crater lake, take a dip in the turquoise waters, or enjoy a 4×4 ride across the lahar-covered landscape.
• Travel duration, routes, and transportation options: Mt. Pinatubo is a 3-hour drive from Manila. From there, you’ll need to take a 4×4 and then trek to the crater.

Local Tip: The best time to visit is from November to May.

9. Taal Volcano

Then, we have the Taal Volcano, one of the smallest active volcanoes in the world!

Taal Volcano is located in the province of Batangas, just a few hours drive from the capital city, Manila. Known as the smallest active volcano in the world, Taal Volcano is nestled within a lake and offers a unique island within a lake within an island experience.

The volcano is a popular destination for both local and foreign tourists due to its picturesque landscape and the thrilling adventure it offers. You can take a boat ride across Taal Lake to reach the volcano island, then hike or ride a horse up to the crater viewpoint. 

The trek is relatively easy and can be completed in about an hour, making it suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. From the viewpoint, you can marvel at the stunning view of the crater lake, which is often described as a lake within a volcano within a lake within a volcano.

• Key attractions and activities: Take a boat ride to the island, hike up to the crater, and marvel at the stunning view of the crater lake.
• Travel duration, routes, and transportation options: Taal Volcano is a 2-hour drive from Manila. Once there, you’ll need to take a boat to the island.

Pro Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water for the hike!

10. Bangui Windmills

Next, we head to the Bangui Windmills, a sight to behold in Ilocos Norte!

Bangui Windmills is not your typical Ilocos Norte tourist spot – they’re a massive wind farm right on the beach! Imagine 20 huge wind turbines lined up along the coast, each standing as tall as a 23-story building. It’s a sight you won’t forget.

But it’s not just about the view. These windmills are actually the first of their kind in Southeast Asia and they provide a big chunk of the power for Ilocos Norte. So, you’re not just visiting a cool spot, you’re also seeing renewable energy in action.

The best part? The beach itself is pretty awesome. It’s not really a swimming spot, but the view of the windmills against the blue sea is perfect for your Instagram feed.

Plus, there are souvenir shops nearby where you can buy mini windmill replicas.

• Key attractions and activities: Marvel at the towering windmills, enjoy the beach view, and shop for unique souvenirs.
• Travel duration, routes, and transportation options: Bangui is a 10-hour drive from Manila. Once there, the windmills are easily accessible by car.

Local Tip: The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon for the best photos!

11. Mt. Pulag

Get ready for an adventure at Mt. Pulag , the third highest mountain in the Philippines!

If you’re looking for an epic adventure in Luzon, you’ve got to check out Mt. Pulag. It’s not just any mountain, it’s the highest peak in Luzon and the third highest in the Philippines! 

Imagine standing over 2,922 meters above sea level, feeling like you’re on top of the world. The views? Absolutely breathtaking. You’ll see a sea of clouds, a sky full of stars, and if you’re lucky, a stunning sunrise that’ll make the early morning hike totally worth it.

The mountain is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, so nature lovers will be in their element. There are different trails to choose from, so whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a newbie, there’s a path for you.

• Key attractions and activities: Trek through the mossy forests, watch the sunrise above the sea of clouds, and stargaze at night.
• Travel duration, routes, and transportation options: Mt. Pulag is a 6-hour drive from Manila. From there, you’ll need to trek to the summit.

Expert Tip: Pack warm clothing as temperatures can drop below freezing at night!

12. Batad Rice Terraces

Welcome to the Batad Rice Terraces , a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

The Batad Rice Terraces, often referred to as the “Stairways to Heaven,” are a sight to behold. These 2000-year old terraces, carved into the mountains, are a testament to the ingenuity of the Ifugao people. It’s a must-see spectacle especially during the planting and harvesting season.

The Batad Banaue Rice Terraces in Ifugao, Cordillera Region, is a man-made, stair-like rice paddy that follows the steep slopes of the mountainside. It was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1995. 

The intricate irrigation system of the Batad Rice Terraces allows it to still be used up to this day. To see the beauty of this old-time human ingenuity, you will have an hour-long hike up to the village of Batad.

The panoramic views of pristine, unsoiled forestry will greet you next. This attraction is located more than 600 km from Manila.

• Key attractions and activities: Hike through the terraces, visit the Tappiya Waterfall, and learn about the Ifugao culture.
• Travel duration, routes, and transportation options: Batad is a 9-hour drive from Manila. Once there, you’ll need to trek to the terraces.

Pro Tip: Hire a local guide for the best experience!

Now, we head to Sagada, a tranquil town in the mountains!

Sagada, a gem nestled in the Mountain Province, is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique blend of adventure and tranquility. This charming town is known for its cool climate, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. 

It’s a place where you can explore stunning caves, hike through lush forests, and witness the famous hanging coffins – a traditional Igorot burial practice. The Echo Valley and Hanging Coffins are some of the must see Sagada tourist spots , offering a glimpse into the unique customs of the Igorot tribe. 

For the adventurous, spelunking in the Sumaguing and Lumiang Caves is a thrilling experience. The caves are filled with fascinating rock formations and a sense of awe-inspiring ancientness.

Sumaguing Cave, often referred to as the “Big Cave,” is a captivating natural wonder located in Sagada, Mountain Province. This majestic cave is renowned for its impressive rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites, which have been shaped over thousands of years. 

Visitors are drawn to its unique and challenging spelunking experience that involves navigating through narrow passages, climbing slippery rocks, and wading through cold subterranean streams. The cave’s interior is beautifully illuminated by natural light during the day, revealing its awe-inspiring geological features. 

Despite its ruggedness, Sumaguing Cave is accessible to adventurous tourists under the guidance of local guides. The cave is not only a popular tourist attraction but also a significant cultural site for the local community.

It’s a testament to the power of nature and the enduring spirit of local traditions.

• Key attractions and activities: Explore the stunning rock formations, see the hanging coffins, take a dip at the waterfalls, or try spelunking.
• Travel duration, routes, and transportation options: The cave is located in Sagada, a 12-hour bus ride from Manila . Once there, hire a local guide for the cave tour.

Expert Tip: Wear sturdy shoes and bring a waterproof camera!

Sagada is also a foodie’s paradise, offering a variety of local dishes. The Sagada Brew and the Lemon Pie House are popular stops for their delicious food and cozy ambiance. The town’s locally grown Arabica coffee is a must-try for coffee lovers.

• Key attractions and activities: Visit the Hanging Coffins, explore the caves, or enjoy the serene Echo Valley.
• Travel duration, routes, and transportation options: Sagada is a 12-hour bus ride from Manila. Once there, most attractions are within walking distance.

Local Tip: Don’t miss the chance to try the local coffee!

Planning to visit? Here’s where to stay in Sagada .

14. Hundred Islands

Imagine a place where you can hop from one island to another, each with its own unique charm. That’s Hundred Islands for you, a gem tucked away in the province of Pangasinan, Luzon.

 It’s like a massive playground with 124 islands at low tide and 123 when high tide rolls in. You can’t visit them all, but the major ones like Governor’s Island, Quezon Island, and Children’s Island are a must-see.

Get your adrenaline pumping with a zipline ride over the water or go island-hopping and snorkeling to meet colorful marine life. If you’re up for a bit of a climb, head to Governor’s Island and reward yourself with a panoramic view of the islands. 

And don’t forget to take a selfie at the Pilgrimage Island with a giant Jesus statue overlooking the sea.

• Key attractions and activities: Explore the islands, go island hopping, snorkeling, diving, or just relax on the beach. 
• Travel duration, routes, and transportation options: From Manila, take a five-hour bus ride to Alaminos, Pangasinan. From there, it’s a short tricycle ride to Lucap Wharf, where boats to the islands are available. 

Local Tip: Don’t miss out on visiting the Pilgrimage Island where a giant statue of Christ the Savior awaits.

Planning to visit? Here’s a list of resorts near Hundred islands !

15. Palaui Island

If you’re looking for a slice of paradise off the beaten path, Palaui Island is your go-to spot. It’s a raw gem with untouched natural beauty that’ll make your jaw drop.

Imagine this: pristine beaches with golden sands, crystal clear waters, and lush green forests. It’s like stepping into a postcard!

But Palaui isn’t just about lazing around on the beach. It’s an adventurer’s dream! You can hike up to Cape Engaño Lighthouse for a panoramic view that’s totally Instagram-worthy.

 Or explore the diverse marine life by snorkeling in its clear waters. And if you’re a fan of Survivor, you’ll be thrilled to know that Palaui was a filming location for the show.

The best part? It’s not swarming with tourists. So you can enjoy all the beauty in peace. But remember, it’s a protected area, so let’s keep it clean and respect the local wildlife. 

• Key attractions and activities: Enjoy hiking, bird watching, snorkeling, and beach hopping. 
• Travel duration, routes, and transportation options: From Manila, take a flight to Tuguegarao and then a 3-hour van ride to Sta. Ana. Boats to Palaui are available from San Vicente port. 

Local Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowd and enjoy the serenity of the island.

16. Mayon Volcano

Mayon Volcano is one of the best Albay tourist spots and most iconic destinations in the Philippines, and trust me, it’s a sight to behold! 

This perfectly cone-shaped volcano is not just a marvel of nature, but it’s also steeped in local legends. You’ll hear tales of star-crossed lovers Magayon and Panganoron, which add a touch of romance to your visit. 

The area around Mayon is just as exciting. You can explore the Cagsawa Ruins, remnants of an old church buried by the 1814 eruption.

It’s a bit eerie but totally Instagram-worthy! For the adventurous souls, there’s ATV rides that’ll take you closer to the volcano.

And don’t miss out on trying the local Bicolano cuisine. Ever heard of a dish spiced up with chili and coconut milk? That’s Bicol Express for you!

• Key attractions and activities: Enjoy a panoramic view from the Lignon Hill, visit Cagsawa Ruins, or try ATV riding near the base of the volcano. 
• Travel duration, routes, and transportation options: From Manila, it’s a one-hour flight to Legazpi. Mayon is visible almost everywhere in the city. 

Local Tip: For the best view of Mayon, visit during the early morning when it’s usually cloud-free.

17. Batanes

If you’re looking for a place that’s like no other, you’ve got to check out Batanes in Luzon, Philippines. It’s this little slice of heaven at the northernmost tip of the country. 

Imagine rolling hills as far as the eye can see, traditional stone houses, and the bluest seas you’ve ever laid eyes on. It’s like stepping into a postcard! The locals, called Ivatans, are some of the kindest people you’ll meet. 

They’ve managed to preserve their unique culture and live a simple, peaceful life. Batanes is also a haven for nature lovers.

You can bike around the islands, hike up its stunning cliffs, or just chill and watch the waves crash against the rugged coastline. 

And oh, don’t forget to try their local dishes like the ‘lunis’ or Ivatan pork. It’s a bit of a journey to get there, but trust me, it’s worth every second. 

• Key attractions and activities: Visit the Basco Lighthouse, explore the traditional Ivatan houses, and enjoy the breathtaking views from Marlboro Hills.
• Travel duration, routes, and transportation options: From Manila, take a two-hour flight to Basco. Tricycles and bicycles are the common modes of transport on the island.

Local Tip: Try the local Ivatan dishes such as Uvud Balls and Flying Fish.

Experience walking on cobblestone streets surrounded by Spanish-style houses in Vigan. It’s like you’re in a different era! 

It’s one of the best-preserved Spanish colonial towns in the country, and it’s even a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But it’s not just about the past, there’s plenty of present-day fun too. 

You can hop on a kalesa (horse-drawn carriage) for a city tour, visit the local markets for some shopping, or try out their famous empanada. And don’t forget to check out the pottery workshops and weave looms, they’re pretty awesome.

At night, Calle Crisologo, the main street, lights up and it’s absolutely magical. You can dine in one of the old houses turned restaurants and savor the local Ilocano cuisine. 

Trust me, Vigan is a mix of history, culture, and food that you wouldn’t want to miss when you’re in Luzon. It’s a total blast from the past!

• Key attractions and activities: Take a Kalesa (horse-drawn carriage) ride, visit the historic Calle Crisologo, and try making pottery at Pagburnayan Jar Factory. Check out our list of Vigan tourist spots to help you plan your itinerary.
• Travel duration, routes, and transportation options: From Manila, take an eight-hour bus ride to Vigan. The city is best explored on foot or by Kalesa.

Local Tip: Don’t forget to try the famous Vigan Longganisa!

Planning to visit? Here are the best Vigan hotels to book!

19. Pagsanjan Falls

Pagsanjan Falls is one of the top waterfalls in the Philippines , and is a real treat for the eyes. Imagine this: you’re in a canoe, cruising down a river surrounded by lush greenery. 

Suddenly, you hear the thunderous sound of water. You turn a corner, and there it is – Pagsanjan Falls in all its glory!

The journey to the falls is an adventure in itself. You’ll be “shooting the rapids” – that’s what they call the thrilling boat ride through the gorge.

And once you get to the falls, you can even hop on a bamboo raft to get a close-up view of the cascading water. 

But it’s not just about the falls. The town of Pagsanjan is worth exploring too. It’s one of the oldest towns in the Philippines, so it’s got a lot of history. You can check out the old Spanish houses and the beautiful church. 

• Key attractions and activities: Enjoy a boat ride through the gorge and rapids, swim in the cool waters, or explore the cave behind the falls.
• Travel duration, routes, and transportation options: From Manila, take a three-hour bus ride to Pagsanjan. The falls is accessible by boat from the town.

Local Tip: Take a waterproof bag for your belongings, you’re going to get wet!

20. Caramoan

Caramoan is an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Luzon. It’s this hidden gem in the Bicol Region that’s got everything from pristine Caramoan beaches to lush forests.

The place is so beautiful, it’s been the filming location for several international editions of the reality show Survivor.

You can island-hop and check out the stunning Matukad Island, Lahos Island, and Cagbalinad Island, each with its own unique charm. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and diving, and the powdery white sands are just begging for a beach picnic.

But Caramoan isn’t just about the beach life. You can also explore the Caramoan National Park, which is home to diverse wildlife and offers exciting trekking trails.

And don’t forget to visit the centuries-old St. Michael the Archangel Church in the town proper.

• Key attractions and activities: Go island hopping, snorkeling, caving, or simply laze on the pristine beaches.
• Travel duration, routes, and transportation options: From Manila, take a flight to Naga City, followed by a 4-hour bus or van ride to Sabang Port, then a 2-hour boat ride to Caramoan.

Local Tip: Check the weather before planning your trip; it’s best visited during the dry season.

21. Isla Verde

Isla Verde is a hidden gem in Batangas, Luzon. It’s a diver’s paradise, boasting a rich marine biodiversity that’s considered one of the best in the world.  It offers divers a spectacular show of vibrant corals and various species of fish. 

The island is surrounded by crystal clear waters, making it perfect for snorkeling and diving. Even without diving deep, the clear turquoise waters give a peek into the bustling underwater life.

It’s a tranquil retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life, where you can relax on its pristine beaches, explore its vibrant coral reefs, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals.

• Key attractions and activities: Enjoy snorkeling, diving, or just a peaceful time on the beach.
• Travel duration, routes, and transportation options: From Manila, take a two-hour bus ride to Batangas City, then a two-hour boat ride to Isla Verde.

Local Tip: The island is remote, bring everything you might need, especially cash and snacks!

22. Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar takes you on a journey through the past. It has an open-air museum and heritage resort where history comes alive.

This is a unique heritage beach resort in Bataan , Luzon. It’s like stepping back in time, as the resort features a collection of Spanish-era heritage houses that were carefully transported from different parts of the Philippines and reconstructed brick by brick. 

The resort offers a fascinating glimpse into the country’s past, with its cobblestone streets, vintage cars, and cultural performances. It’s a great place to learn about Filipino history and culture while enjoying modern amenities.

• Key attractions and activities: Enjoy a heritage walk, participate in traditional workshops, or take a swim in the batis-inspired swimming pool.
• Travel duration, routes, and transportation options: From Manila, take a 4-hour drive to Bagac, Bataan. The heritage park is easily accessible from the highway.

Local Tip: Stay overnight for a complete heritage experience!

23. Callao Cave

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Alex Marie (@alekxiibebelab)

Callao Cave offers an adventure like no other. The seven-chambered cave boasts impressive limestone formations and stunning rock formations, including stalactites and stalagmites, a chapel, and a natural skylight. 

Every chamber holds a surprise, the biggest of all being the stunning view of the Cagayan Valley from the entrance. The cave’s main attraction is the chapel, a natural cathedral-like chamber illuminated by a skylight. 

It’s a great spot for adventure seekers, as you can explore the cave’s chambers, enjoy a boat ride on the Pinacanauan River, and watch thousands of bats fly out of the cave at dusk.

• Key attractions and activities: Explore the cave, take a boat ride on the Pinacanauan River, or watch thousands of bats emerge at dusk.
• Travel duration, routes, and transportation options: From Manila, take a flight to Tuguegarao, then a tricycle or jeepney ride to the cave.

Local Tip: Wear comfortable shoes; the climb to the cave entrance has over 180 steps!

24. Kaparkan Falls

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The terraced waterfalls of Kaparkan Falls are a spectacular sight. They create a natural water slide, each terrace filled with clear, cool water. The mossy, green environment adds to the overall charm of this off-the-beaten-track destination.

Imagine a multi-tiered waterfall cascading down a mountainside like a white staircase, surrounded by lush greenery. Kaparkan Falls, located in Abra, has natural wonders. It is a sight to behold, especially during the rainy season when the water flow is at its peak. 

It’s a bit of a trek to get there, but the stunning view is totally worth it. Just remember to pack your swimsuit and a camera!

• Key attractions and activities: Enjoy a dip in the terraced pools, hike up the falls, or explore the surrounding forest.
• Travel duration, routes, and transportation options: From Manila, take a 10-hour bus ride to Abra. From Bangued, rent a 4×4 to reach the falls.

Local Tip: Visit during the rainy season when the falls are at their most beautiful!

25. Pagudpud Beach

If you’re a beach lover, you can’t miss Pagudpud in Ilocos Norte.  Located in the northernmost tip of Luzon, this beach is a haven for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

Known as the “Boracay of the North”, it boasts white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and stunning views. It’s the perfect place to relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy water sports. 

You can enjoy various water activities like swimming, snorkeling, and even surfing. The beach is surrounded by scenic landscapes, including mountains and forests, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.

Plus, it’s less crowded than other popular beaches, giving you a more serene and intimate experience with nature. And, the locals are super friendly and welcoming, adding to the overall charm of this Luzon tourist spot.

• Key attractions and activities: Enjoy the beach, visit the Bangui Windmills, or explore the Cape Bojeador Lighthouse.
• Travel duration, routes, and transportation options: From Manila, take a 10-hour bus ride to Laoag, then a 2-hour bus or tricycle ride to Pagudpud.

Local Tip: Try the local delicacy, bagnet!

Planning to visit? Here are some of the best Pagudpud beach resorts to book.

Other Popular Activities in Luzon

Now that we’ve explored the must-visit spots, let’s dive into the other popular activities that make Luzon a true paradise for travelers!

Cultural Tours

Ready to immerse yourself in the rich Filipino culture? Luzon’s cultural tours are just the ticket!

• Cultural Tours: Visit local markets, try traditional Filipino crafts, or join a cooking class. You’ll get to see the Philippines through the eyes of its people, and trust me, it’s a view you don’t want to miss!

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to try Balut, a local delicacy!

Nature and Wildlife Tours

If you’re a nature lover, Luzon won’t disappoint!

• Nature and Wildlife Tours: Baluarte in Ilocos Norte is a unique wildlife sanctuary where visitors can interact with various animals in their natural habitat.
• It offers a captivating experience of nature, with its lush landscapes, diverse fauna, and educational exhibits, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Expert Tip: Bring water to stay hydrated!

Historical Tours

Step back in time with Luzon’s historical tours.

• Historical Tours: Explore ancient ruins, visit historic churches, or walk through the cobblestone streets of Vigan. It’s like stepping into a time machine!

Local Tip: Don’t miss the kalesa ride in Vigan!

Experience the hustle and bustle of city life with Luzon’s city tours.

• City Tours: Shop at trendy boutiques in Makati, dine at hip cafes in Quezon City, or enjoy the nightlife in Manila. There’s always something happening in the city!

Pro Tip: Try the street food for a taste of local life!

Hiking Tours

Last but not least, get your adrenaline pumping with Luzon’s hiking tours.

• Hiking Tours: Climb the majestic Mt. Pulag, trek through the lush forests of Mt. Banahaw, or explore the stunning landscapes of Mt. Pinatubo. It’s an adventure you won’t forget!

Expert Tip: Pack light but don’t forget your rain gear!

There you have it, the top activities in Luzon that promise unforgettable experiences! So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Luzon adventure today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is luzon known for in tourism.

Luzon, the largest island in the Philippines, is a treasure trove of experiences for tourists. It’s known for its rich history and culture, dating back to the 15th century. From the bustling city life in Manila to the serene landscapes of Banaue, Luzon offers a diverse range of attractions that cater to all types of travelers. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, Luzon has something for you!

Why is Luzon famous?

Luzon is famous for being the largest and most important island of the Philippines. It’s home to Manila, the nation’s capital and major metropolis, as well as Quezon City. Located in the northern part of the Philippine archipelago, Luzon is surrounded by the Philippine Sea, Sibuyan Sea, and the South China Sea. It’s known for its vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty, and historical landmarks.

What are the famous landmarks found in Luzon?

Luzon is home to numerous famous landmarks that attract tourists from around the world. These include the historic Intramuros in Manila, the stunning Banaue Rice Terraces, the active Taal Volcano, the beautiful beaches of Palawan, and the unique Hanging Coffins in Sagada, to name just a few. Each landmark offers a unique glimpse into the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of Luzon.

How many places are there in Luzon?

Luzon is the largest and most populous island in the Philippines, and it’s home to numerous cities, towns, and provinces. It includes the country’s capital city, Manila, as well as Quezon City, the country’s most populous city. Luzon is divided into three regions: Northern Luzon, Central Luzon, and Southern Luzon, each with its own unique destinations and attractions. From bustling cities to serene landscapes, Luzon offers a wide range of places to explore.

We’ve journeyed through the vibrant cities, serene landscapes, and historic landmarks that make Luzon a must-visit destination. From the bustling streets of Manila to the tranquil terraces of Banaue, each spot offers a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of Filipino culture and natural beauty.

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, Luzon has something for everyone. Each destination is a testament to Luzon’s diverse offerings, promising unforgettable experiences and memories that will last a lifetime.

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, lace up your shoes, and set your sights on Luzon. An unforgettable adventure awaits you in this beautiful corner of the Philippines. Remember, travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer. Happy travels!

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10 Top Destinations in Southern Luzon, Philippines

Full of mountains and volcanoes that look out imperiously over the beaches and islands lining its shores, Southern Luzon is a delight to explore, with a plethora of great things for you to see and do. The majestic Mayon Volcano dominates the region with its perfectly symmetrical cone that so dramatically stands out against the bright blue sky, but this beautiful part of the Philippines has many more hidden gems for you to discover.

With plenty of untouched and unspoiled nature for visitors to immerse themselves in, you can be wandering around secluded islands such as Catanduanes one minute and be basking in the astounding scenery of Taal Volcano and Pagsanjan Falls the next, while whale sharks and abundant marine life lie just offshore.

Map of Southern Luzon, the Philippines

10. Legazpi [SEE MAP]

Lying at the foot of the majestic Mount Mayon, Legazpi is set in a beautiful location on the shores of the Albay Gulf, with a beautiful waterfront for you to stroll along. Perfectly conical in shape, the active volcano is stunning. Its gentle slopes offer a myriad of great outdoor activities, with hiking, ziplining, and climbing all popular pastimes.

While its scenic setting and proximity to Mount Mayon are what attract many people to Legazpi, there are also a number of interesting sights in town, such as San Raphael’s Church and the Cagsawa Ruins. In addition to this, visitors can also go scuba diving or snorkeling offshore, and the nation’s rich culture and heritage is showcased at festivals such as Ibalong Festival and Daragong Magayon Festival, both of which are held in town.

9. Catanduanes [SEE MAP]

As it is often overlooked by visitors to Southern Luzon, the island of Catanduanes is a great place to head to if you want to step off the beaten path and enjoy some fantastic scenery with barely another soul in sight. Dotted along its wild and rugged coastline are some sleepy little fishing villages, as well as some beautiful, secluded beaches. Its rainforest-coated interior is home to some amazing waterfalls and caves.

Despite its many wonders, the main reason that people visit Catanduanes is for its renowned ‘Majestic Wave,’ which attracts surfers from all around the world; the best waves can be found along the east coast. One thing to bear in mind when visiting Catanduanes is that, although it is undoubtedly a lovely place, the island lies at the heart of the typhoon belt; as such, typhoons can strike at any point throughout the year.

8. Caramoan Peninsula [SEE MAP]

Lined with jagged cliffs punctuated by beautiful white sand beaches, the Caramoan Peninsula really is breathtaking. It should come as no surprise to learn that the famous TV show Survivor was filmed on its dazzling beaches, which are backed by rainforest-covered hills and mountains.

Due to its remote location, the peninsula is full of wonderfully untouched nature, and the best way to travel between its scatterings of resorts and beaches is by boat. Jetting across the turquoise water among rugged isles and jungle-clad islands to an idyllic beach is an incredible experience. When it comes time to leave, you’ll find it hard to tear yourself away from the incredible scenery.

7. Calaguas Islands [SEE MAP]

Consisting of Guintinua, Maculabo, and Tinaga islands and a scattering of smaller islets, the Calaguas Islands are an increasingly popular tourist destination – and it’s not hard to see why. Blessed with an abundance of glorious white sand beaches – of which Mahabang Buhangin beach on Tinaga is the undoubted highlight – the islands really are picture-perfect. Gently swaying palm trees and sparkling turquoise waters line their golden shores.

With a plethora of fantastic outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, and surfing on offer, a visit to the Calaguas Islands can be as relaxing or adrenaline-filled as you make it.

6. Mabini [SEE MAP]

Jutting out into the sea from between the bays of Balayan and Batangas that lie to either side of it, Mabini is a very pleasant place to spend some time. The town is particularly popular with snorkelers and scuba divers, as the waters surrounding the small peninsula teem with life. With lots of brightly colored fish and corals on show, diving in its waters is a magical experience, and there are a myriad of great dive spots found nearby.

If exploring the underwater world isn’t your thing, you can always go hiking in the hills that dot the peninsula, take a scenic boat trip around the bays, or simply lounge on one of the lovely beaches. In addition to this, the majestic Taal Volcano isn’t far away if you’re looking for an unforgettable and easy day trip.

5. Pagsanjan Falls [SEE MAP]

Gushing out from the rock face, the powerful jet of water that is the Pagsanjan Falls is slightly underwhelming to behold at first sight, but it is not without reason that it is one of the most famous and most popular tourist attractions in Southern Luzon. Hemmed in by towering cliffs, the falls are only accessible by boat. The 90-minute journey through scenic gorges below rainforest-coated cliff faces really is as memorable as they come.

As such, the Pagsanjan Falls are slightly disappointing at first glance – until you enter the Devil’s Cave, that is. Located directly behind the waterfall, the cave is an exhilarating cacophony of sound and spray. Seeing the tumultuous waters plunge into the pool right in front of you from up high is an awe-inspiring experience.

4. Taal Volcano [SEE MAP]

An extraordinary place to visit, Taal Volcano is well worth checking out if you have the chance; there is almost nowhere else like it on Earth. Lying near the middle of Taal Lake, the island of Taal Volcano rises dramatically before you. Within its caldera, you can find the glimmering waters of a crater lake.

Even more remarkable is the rocky outcrop of Vulcan Point that protrudes from the lake, which means you are gazing upon an island in a lake on an island in a lake on an island. This incredible feat of nature is astonishing, and hiking to the top of the caldera is well worth the effort for the panoramic views of the surrounding scenery.

3. Tagaytay [SEE MAP]

Overlooking the glorious Taal Lake, Tagaytay is one of the most popular cities to visit in the Philippines with both tourists and locals alike. Its cool mountain climate offers visitors some welcome respite from the hustle and bustle, heat and humidity of nearby Manila. As it is bordered by lots of hills and mountains, there is loads of magnificent scenery to enjoy, with Taal Volcano being the undoubted highlight.

With so much nature nearby, Tagaytay has lots of hikes and trails for you to do. In addition to its natural wonders, the city has some interesting historical and cultural landmarks to check out. The Mabini Shrine, People’s Park in the Sky, and Sky Ranch amusement park are the pick of the bunch.

2. Donsol [SEE MAP]

Once a sleepy, laidback fishing village, the coastal town of Donsol now hums with life as scuba divers and snorkelers come to swim with the infamous whale sharks that are found just offshore. Growing up to 12 meters long, the gentle giants are majestic to see up close, and swimming with them really is an unforgettable experience.

While there is not all that much to see or do in town, Donsol is a pleasant enough place to spend a couple of days, and the surrounding area has loads of great hikes and cycle rides for you to do. Although most people primarily come to see the whale sharks, another very memorable thing to do is to take a firefly boat tour and watch the night light up as a thousand small dots punctuate the darkness.

1. Mayon Volcano [SEE MAP]

Rising majestically from amidst the picturesque countryside and landscapes surrounding it, Mayon Volcano looks absolutely incredible, and visiting it is simply a must when in Southern Luzon. Towering to an impressive 2,463 meters, Mount Mayon dominates its surroundings, and the active stratovolcano is widely considered to have ‘the perfect cone’ due to its symmetric conical shape.

Lying at the heart of a national park that’s named after it, the volcano has a plethora of great hiking trails and paths for you to explore; the higher you go, the more dazzling the views are. Wandering around the countryside surrounding Mayon Volcano is also well worth the effort. The volcano in the distance is picture-perfect, and you’re sure to come away with lots of fantastic snaps of its mist-shrouded peak.

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Very nice trip. The tours are good. The city tour in puerto Pricessa was very poor.

Hanneke Jacobs

Guide to the Philippines has really helped me to get around Palawan, and always making sure if I was comfortable. That was really nice! Hotels -Hue hotel was perfect! Very nice and comfortable, and great styling. The food was super, and the staff nice. The breakfast options were amazing!!! -For the budget option i was supposed to have another hotel, but because it was so busy, I had to switch to Marianne hotel. A hotel that is not finished yet, and still under construction, so no pool and quite some noise and building site smells. Room was all right, but the cleaning could have been better (water stains on mirror and such). Breakfast was not so good, the second day I even chose to have it somewhere else. Transport The transport was arranged perfectly! Nice drivers and on time. Tours - underground river was amazing! Otherworldly! We were lucky because of the weather, other ones were canceled. Lunch was ok. Apparently people could choose an add on to this tour, and go ziplining. Some chose to do this, resulting in having to wait for quite a while. Could have done without that, -honda bay tour was super! The lunch they prepared was absolutely lovely, and the guide took well care of us. We saw some lovely islands and beautiful beaches! Good atmosphere! - Tour C El Nido : i was supposed to be on another tour but in all confusion, i ender up on this one. It was too crowded, and the boat with 30 capacity had 43 tourists on it. After asking, they had to get extra life jackets from another boat. It was not comfortable with so many people on the boat and on the islands. It really was mass tourism, but at least I saw the beautiful nature! All in all, I am very happy I had the help of Guide to the Philippines and would definitely book again! But no more El Nido! Thank you!

Duncan McIlwraith

Notice of itinerary change arrived the day before our tour started! Despite having booked and paid 2 months previous, island flights had not been booked. This meant two boat tours on successive days, no rest day and first destination cut short. Too long at the following hotel ( which had a bad drain smell) and a late flight to Manila , this meant hanging around and then arriving 8pm in the dark. Extremely unprofessional. We asked for assistance to book four days following our island tour, a reservation was made and cancelled on our way back to Manila, we made our own reservation. The on site agents were polite and punctual. The weather was nice.

Luke George

10/10 My partner and I are seasoned travellers and usually plan our own holidays. However both of us had extremely hectic schedules in the back end of 2023 and so we went outside of our comfort zone and booked an entire 2 week island hopping tour of the Philippines through Guide To The Philippines (GTTP)! I have to say at first it was pretty daunting, handing over our precious holiday to someone else, but we are SO GLAD WE DID!! This is a team of passionate professionals who did absolutely everything they could to ensure we had a fantastic holiday! The tour itself was incredible, we did the 12-Day Puerto Princesa, El Nido, Coron, Cebu & Siargao Island Hopping Philippine Tour Package experience; possibly a bit too hectic, as we also bolted on all of the additional extras, but that was more us, biting off more than we could chew and in hindsight we don’t regret a thing! I am going out of my way to especially say that you are in very safe hands with the GTTP team! Here is what I experienced: 1. Excellent communication - the team write better English than most native speakers. I never had a language barrier. 2. Efficient - emails were responded to quickly and left no stone unturned, so no constant back and forth 3. Professional - always maintained professionalism, despite I was high maintenance from time to time and they may have wanted to kill me at times (lol) 4. 24/7 - I had support around the clock via email, WhatsApp and iMessage 5. Account Management - not sure if it’s intentional, however we seemed to have one particular agent who took care of most things, like she was assigned to us. Her name was Richel and she is just incredible! You are in fantastic hands if Richel is on your side!!! That said, if Richel was away, the other team members took great care of us also 6. Caring - I felt like I was being taken care of and they were always one step ahead and it filled me with confidence and joy to know they had my best interests at heart. 7. Good Value - Whilst on the tour you get an idea of pricing for each component and given the level of service we received this was incredible value We chose the comfort accommodation package and with the exception of one, the hotels were incredible! We provided feedback to GTTP about the hotel that wasn’t great, and they are looking into it. GTTP literally took care of every single component of our tour. We had daily emails explaining the itinerary for the day ahead with contact details for the tour providers and transport providers. All of our internal flights were organised perfectly. You will be very well taken care of if you choose to book a trip in the Philippines with GTTP. I have not been incentivised or pressured to write this review. It’s just so great to have an exceptional customer experience like my partner and I have had in the lead up and during our holiday! Thanks GTTP and especially Richel for being awesome and having curated a trip and a thousand memories that we will never forget!!! Luke, 40 Australian Eduardo, 39 Colombian

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17 Amazing Tourist Spots in Luzon, Philippines: Ultimate Guide

This comprehensive guide will take you through the most beautiful places and tourist spots in Luzon Island in the Philippines. You will find out the most important information like prices, transportation and how to get there, accommodation or the estimated time needed for visit.

Obsah / Table of Contents

1) Tourist Spots in Luzon – Rice terraces in B anaue & Batad

There is a lot of rice fields in northern Luzon but in Batad and Banaue they are concentrated in one hilly place, where they create an absolutely amazing landscape. The locals call those rice terraces the eighth wonder of the world!

The rice terraces in Batad can be reached only by walk. We definitely recommend visiting this lovely remote mountain village! It is almost unbelievable that there are still inhabited places that you can reach only by foot. We spent there whole 2 days – walking through these amazing rice terraces and taking pictures. According to the locals, rice terraces are a profitable business.

How to get to Banaue & Batad?

A lot of tourists visit only Batad rice terraces as the only place in Luzon. Well, this monumental scenery is absolutely worth it! Although, we recommend combining this trip with Sagada.

Getting from Manila to Banaue

You can book bus tickets from  Manila to Banaue and back at 12GO . The journey between Manila and Banaue takes 8-10 hours. You can get a one-way ticket from $ 13 (PHP 450).

There are 3 bus companies, each starting from a different location in Manila:

• Ohayami Transit – corner of Fajardo Street and Lacson Avenue, Sampaloc Manila
• Danga Transit – Florida Cubao Terminal near Kamias
• Coda Lines – Cubao HM Transport Terminal

Getting from Banaue to Batad

Batad is located about 18 km from Banaue. The Jeepney (minibus) to Batad goes regularly only once a day, at 3 PM. The journey takes about 45 minutes and it cost 150 PHP. Jeepney back to Banaue leaves from Batad early in the morning (ask for the exact time at your hostel).

If you miss that Jeepney, you can go by tricycle for 400 PHP (or for 300 PHP only to the saddle – it is 3 more kilometers by foot from there). Alternatively, you can arrange some other taxi, but that is going to be more expensive.

Another option is to take the Jeepney towards Bangaan or Mayoyao and get off at Batad Junction. From here it is 6 km by walk (and it’s uphill).

Sagada – Bontoc – Banaue

If you are arriving from Sagada, you have to get to Bontoc first. There is a regular Jeepney from Sagada to Bontoc (timetable is available at Sagada tourist office). There are shared vans going from Bontoc to Banaue for 150 PHP. They are supposed to have 1-hour interval during the morning, but the driver is waiting for the passengers to fill up the van completely. The journey from Bontoc to Banaue takes about 2 hours.

If you want to get from Sagada to Batad in 1 day, you should leave Sagada early in the morning.

Where to stay in Banaue ?

There are multiple different options in Banaue . We recommend Bogah Homestay with a wonderful view of the rice terraces.

Where to stay in Batad ?

Our favorite place was Ramon’s place . If you search a good value for money pick Batad View Inn and Restaurant . In general, don’t expect anything luxurious (everything is very difficult to bring/carry here). Expect simple facilities, but very welcoming hosts.

You can also choose from many other options, whether at Agoda or Booking .

What should you consider?

In any case, we do not recommend traveling with a suitcase to Batad village. Prepare for a mountain trek to get there, so the suitcase is not an ideal choice. Everything is much easier with a backpack in the Philippines.

Batad – Trip to the Tappiya waterfall

Trek to Tappiya Waterfall is a popular hiking trip from Batad. Narrow paths around the rice terraces with significant descent will bring you to the Tappiya waterfall. The landscape is beautiful and you can extend your trek as you wish by wandering around the beautiful rice terraces.

They will try to offer you to pay for trekking guides at your accommodation, but that is not necessary (GPS and offline map is enough).

Recommended time to stay in Banaue a Batad

We recommend spending at least 2 full days to enjoy the rice terraces and the mountain area of Batad and Banaue, there.

2) Tourist Spots in Luzon – Sagada

Sagada is a magical and very interesting village, which has a lot to offer. Whether you plan to visit the mystical aerial cemetery, so-called Hanging Coffins or stroll to a nearby waterfall, beautiful church, or explore Sagada Caves with a dose of adrenaline speleology!

How to get to Sagada?

From manila to sagada.

If you are heading from Manila directly to Sagada, there is nothing easier than booking your bus online. The journey takes 12 hours and buses depart from Manila in the morning. Prices start at $ 18.

From Baguio to Sagada

You can get to Sagada by GL Trans buses, which leave Baguio every hour from 6:00 AM, the last bus departs at 13:00. Buses depart from the bus terminal: Baguio City. The journey takes 5-6 hours. You can buy tickets on the spot.

After you arrive in Sagada:

The bus stops right in front of the tourist information office, where you have to register and pay the tourism fee (you won’t be able to book any activity without this confirmation).

There is an ATM at the tourist information office.

Accommodation in Sagada

There are some options to choose from in   Sagada . We can recommend Agape Log Cabin And Restaurant with a beautiful wooden interior in the heart of the village.

2a) Hanging Coffins in Sagada

A truly mystical place is located nearby the village of Sagada. There is an aerial cemetery high in the rocks called Hanging Coffins. Several dozens of coffins are either hung directly on the rock or simply stacked on top of each other in caves among the rocks. That is the 2,000-year-old  Igorot  burial tradition.

However, not everyone can be buried in this honor way. There are some criteria:

• A person must be over 80 years old
• Must have children
• His/her children must be married
• And also must have grandchildren

Although the Philippines is a Christian country, this funeral ritual is open to non-Christians as well. The only difference is the type of coffin. Non-Christians are buried in a hollowed tree trunk tied with a rope and placed inside in a fetal position.

Except Hanging Coffins hanging you can see also a lot of coffins in the caves around the trail in Echo Valley. Some coffins are already falling apart.

Why are the hanging coffins hanging?

Our guide told us, that they were simply worried that dogs will eat the corpse. Another reason was that they wanted to be closer to the sky due to the belief that the higher the dead were placed, the greater the chance for their spirits reaching a higher nature in the afterlife. Believe it or not, this tradition is still ongoing, the latest man was buried in 2010.

Hanging Coffins: Entrance fee and guides to Echo Valley

You are required to pay for a local guide and there is no other way to visit Echo Valley without the guide. You can join some other people to pay for one guide together. If you are 4 you will pay around 200-300 PHP per person.

The journey to the Echo Valley begins several dozens of meters behind the Sagada church. You can leave your backpack at the stand where the entrance fee is collected. Your guide is probably going to be someone local. Our guide told us that her grandma was buried high in the rocks in the Echo Valley.

2b) Sagada Caves

Sumaguing-Lumiang Cave is truly impressive creation of mother nature. You can easily book a guided caving tour at the Tourist Center. There are 2 options:

• Shorter Samuguing Cave (tour last approx. 2-2,5 hours), which is quite easy and safe, or:
• Lumiang – Sumaguing Cave connection , which is quite adventurous ( tour last approx. 4-5 hours)

Lumiang-Sumaguing cave connection – Sagada

We decided to take the adventurous option . But we did not expect that much adrenaline… We got headlamps and started climbing down to the bottom of the cave. Some places required nearly acrobatic positions (seriously, nothing for overweight people). Well, most of the rock was really slippery and I don’t even want to know how deep was the abyss we had to climb around with no safety materials. After this excursion, we understood why there were T-shirts with giant letters – “I survived Sagada” in every souvenir shop.

Prepare to get a little wet and dirty, you are going to climb wet rocks, and sometimes you will need to climb up the rope as well. Regarding the safety standards – this would not be allowed in Europe 😀 Be prepared for that and enjoy it!

2c) The Church of Saint Mary the Virgin in Sagada

Be sure to visit the Church of Saint Mary the Virgin. It is an Anglican church that was built in 1904 by American missionaries. You can visit it on the way to Hanging Coffins.

2d) Bomod-ok and other waterfalls in Sagada

You can take a nice track to the Bomod-ok waterfalls, where you can even swim. Allow about 4-6 hours for the whole trip. There is a possibility to arrange a guide for 500 PHP in the tourist office.

If you want to explore other waterfalls in the area, you can visit Bokong Falls , with a beautiful lagoon where you can swim or another waterfall – Pongas Falls.

Recommended time for Sagada

You will need 2 days to fully enjoy what Sagada offers.

3) Tourist Spots in Luzon – Baguio

Baguio is a lovely city where you will probably stop on your way to Sagada. It has become the summer “capital” of the Philippines thanks to its high altitude (1540 meters above seas level) and the pleasant temperature. Check this Baguio itinerary to plan your trip.

3a) Mines View Park in Baguio

Viewing deck at Mines View Park is one of the most famous and most visited places of Baguio. It is located in the north-western part of the town (4 km from the center). Mines View Park offers beautiful views of the city and former gold mines and copper mines. Apart from several souvenir stalls, you can try traditional Cordirela Regalia clothing.

How to get to Mines View Park?

There is a Jeepney line “Plaza to Mines View” available from the city center. The terminal is located at the bottom of Mabini Street opposite the Danes Bakeshop. The journey takes 5-10 minutes and costs around 12 PHP.

3b) Baguio Cathedral

Cathedral of Our Lady of Atonement in Baguio is located right on the top of the hill with a nice view of the city. If you go by walk from the center, you will find a long and steep staircase on a very steep street. It is a beautiful Roman-Catholic Cathedral and we can definitely recommend visiting it!

3c) Baguio City Market

Baguio City Market is a very nice place to see, even if you don’t plan shopping. You will see a lot of fruits, vegetables, spices, fish, etc. The City Market is spread along Magsaysay Avenue.

3d) Burnham Park

Burnham Park is located in the very center of the city is a nice place to have a walk. You can buy ice cream, fruits, go for a “Swan ride”, rent a bike or even roller-skate in the indoor arena.

We found a good and cheap restaurant there – The Ganza Restaurant.

3e) Baguio night market

If you stay overnight, visit the night market. It takes place every evening, between 9 PM and midnight right next to Burnham Park in the middle of Harrison Road.

3f) Baguio Botanical Garden

If you are a fan of different flowers and plant species, you may also like visiting the botanical garden. Baguio Botanical Garden is also known as Igorot Village (there are the original cottages or carved sculptures) and at the entrance, you can also take a picture with a group of locals wearing traditional costumes. There is no entrance fee to Baguio Botanical Gardens. Garden closes at dusk.

How to get to Baguio Botanical Garden?

The entrance to the Botanical Garden is located on Leonardo Wood Road , between Write Park and Teachers Camp. You can get there by various Jeepney lines from the city (going in the direction of Mines View, Pacdal Beckel, Country Club, Navy Base, Tuding and Itogon).

3g) Other interesting places in Baguio

• Bridal Veil Waterfall

How to get to Baguio from Manila?

You can easily get to Baguio from Manila. Victory Liner buses depart regularly from the following bus stations:

To book tickets and search for departure times, check out VictoryLiner.com

Where to stay in Baguio ?

There are many hotels and hostels in Baguio.

Metro Pines Inn is a nice accommodation in the city center , near the Park. If you search for budget accommodation in the city center, check out Baguio Kangen . In Mines View areas there is a good Ibay Zion Hote l or cheaper hostel JONY’s Place .

4) Tourist Spots in Luzon – Hundred Islands National Park

This could be the most beautiful National Park on Luzon island. There are exactly  123 small islands in this beautiful National Park.  You can  hire a boat  and your captain or boatmen will guide you among these cute islands. It is just a very short distance from the island to the island. There is a very nice view from several Islands! You can even ride a  zip-line  from one of these Hundred Islands. I must admit that this zip-line was the most beautiful one I’ve ever tried! Actually, there is a wide range of activities . You can make a single day trip or choose the overnight option.

What to expect?

There is a statue of Jesus – almost like in Rio, a cave you can swim in (and also jump into at the high tide), another island has an excellent restaurant, beach, and bridge from one island to another. You can also enjoy a superb zipline with amazing views on Governor’s Island, do a cool snorkeling stop or visit a bamboo ba r, which has a perfect ramp for jumps.

All-day private boat cruise with a personal driver cost around 32 $.

Entrance fee to Hundred Islands National Park – Luzon

Before embarking on an adventure cruise, you need to visit Park Infocentre, which is right in the harbor. You a required to register there and pay the entry (you will receive a document which you will present to your boatmen).

• Park entrance 30 PHP per person.
• Environmental fee 40 PHP/day per person.

TIP: Bring enough cash! It is not possible to pay by card on islands.

As mentioned, you can choose between a one-day trip and overnight stay. If you decide to take overnight stay , except that it will be at least twice as expensive. It is also necessary to book accommodation on the islands (from 1000 PHP) or if you have your own tent, you only pay 200 PHP. They will tell details at the information center.

Hiring a boat (with boatmen)

Price of the boat depends on its size . You can arrange a group of people to share costs. But consider that the trip is variable and it’s up to your decision (group decision if you are more people there) how much time you spend on each island. So different people will have different needs, that is why it’s maybe worth paying for the private boat.

• Small boat (1-5 person) – 1400 PHP per day (3000 PHP for 2 days)
• Middle size boat (6-10 person) – 1800 PHP per day (3800 PHP for 2 days)
• Big boat (11-15 person) – 2000 PHP per day (4500 PHP for 2 days )

Activities at Hundred Islands National Park – Luzon

Hundred Islands National Park offers a lot of activities. Here is a price list:

• Zipline (Governor’s Island) – 250 PHP. This zipline is definitely worth it! The view is absolutely amazing!
• Jet ski – 1000 PHP/15 min.
• Banana Boat – 250 PHP
• Helmet Diving – 400 PHP. Diving duration – 20 minutes
• Kayaking – 250 PHP/hour
• Hiring a snorkeling set – 250 PHP for a whole day

What to pack with you?

• Snorkeling equipment (you can rent it)
• Snack (you can also eat at island restaurant – they have delicious fish) 🙂

Where to stay?

Kylah Pension (Transient) House has a perfect location directly in the harbor. On the other side, the cheapest option is Villa Milagros Pension House (accommodation in a shared room). You can also check other options in the area.

If you are heading to Bolo Beach, you can stay at the Santorini mini-resort with a private beach, Santorini has excellent references.

How to get to Hundred Islands National Park?

Bus from manila to alaminos.

The first step is to get to Alaminos. You can book direct buses to Alaminos from Manila at 12GO . The journey takes about 3-4 hours. From Alaminos, you can easily reach the port by tricycle. Look for the Lucap tricycle terminal.

5) Tourist Spots in Luzon – Mt. Pinatubo

Mount Pinatubo is a volcano with a beautiful Crater Lake in the middle. Its colors change every week according to the lake plankton lifecycle. The color can range from turquoise blue, green to brown.

The trip is a great experience from the beginning. There is a wide river, so you will be transported by an army vehicle, which must be assisted by a giant tractor so help it cross the river. You can’t get there without a guide, it is necessary to join an organized tour , which includes transport across the river and to the beginning of the hiking trail.

As soon as you get to the “truck” base, there is going to be a little trip introduction with coffee or tea. Time to get ready to jump on the army vehicle or jeeps and head off. The road is incredibly dusty . You can see the indigenous people of Aeta Tribe on the way. As soon as trucks arrive at the trailhead, it is time to start 7 km hike up. There are toilets at the beginning if you need.

The trail leads through the volcanic landscape and laters through the gorge with the river. There are some simple souvenirs shop and snack bars on the way. There is a beautiful view of Crater Lake at the end. The color of the lake will be a surprise…

Book your tour and Jeep Pinatubo Adventure here .

You will need 1 whole day for this trip.

What to pack for the Mount Pinatubo track?

• Scarf (against all that dust on the way by trucks)
• Hiking shoes
• Packed lunch and snack

How to get to Mount Pinatubo?

There are some options to choose from. You can either go directly from Manila , join the tour at designated pick-up locations or come directly to the “truck” base nearby Mount Pinatubo.

If you go by bus directly from Manila, be prepared for very early departure (around 3 or 4 AM from Manila).

You are likely to meet locals returning from the nearest town on their water buffalo and later even visit them directly in one of their huts!

6) Tourist Spots in Luzon – Vigan

If you are a fan of Spanish Colonial Architecture , you should definitely visit Vigan. The city is listed at UNESCO World Heritage List. Head off for a walk through the historic city center and stop by the magic singing fountain or the ancient Bantay Tower. You can read more here about the tourist spots in Vigan.

7) Tourist Spots in Luzon – Manila

I would like to give you a friendly advice: Don’t stay in this city longer than you need to. Manila is a city of contrasts. Although you can find there, luxury western cafés, where coffee cost around 3 USD or fast foods like McDonald’s, you can find there also street grills, where a 9-year-old boy is preparing dinner for you and even his younger brother assists him with accepting payments meanwhile their father (who is sitting nearby) is watching them.

You can get across half of the city for 0,15 UDS only. Believe me, it is not a pleasant experience, I was glad I didn’t suffocate with all that smog! If you drive Jeepney or a tricycle, you have no chance to avoid literally black clouds of smoke from all these old vehicles. Every single ecologist would get mad there! Rivers and streets are full of garbage, rubbish, and dirt.

During our travels, we are used to walking around the city according to our GPS and point of interests. It’s NOT the best idea in Manila! During that walk, we found ourselves in places where you realize how lucky you are that you can live somewhere else. We saw children sleeping on the streets or other people who live in the most primitive “shelters” around the street. Chickens and cocks were tunning around the streets in the middle of this ugly city. It was highly inappropriate to take pictures of that scenery, so there is no illustration.

Manila Ocean park

If you have some time, Manila Ocean Park is nice place to visit . You can see the aquariums, parrot, and seal show. The best and cheapest is the Ocean Park Attraction Pass   (with the lowest price guarantee).

Accommodation in Manila

The best accessible area near the airport is Pasay . There is also a bus station , from where you can get o buses to explore places in Luzon Island.

Map of Tourist spots in Luzon

We have prepared for you a detailed map  with all these tourist spots in Luzon in the northern Philippines. You can export the map and upload it to Maps.me or Locus mobile apps.

• Check here  all our travel planning maps .

Let’s go to Luzon Island, Philippines!

Find your tickets to Luzon, Manila! Good deals around Asia has also Momondo .

More Philippines inspiration:

Are you planning a trip around other islands in the Philippines? These articles might come handy:

• 15 Beautiful Tourist Spots in Cebu
• 9 Beautiful Tourist Spots in Mindanao

Check this awesome aerial video from the Philippines:

Enjoy your travels and tell us if you miss any nice tourist spots in Luzon, the Philippines.

More tips for your travels:

We have prepared for you this comprehensive list of links, discounts, and resources for travel planning in one place. Bookmark this page and whenever you plan a vacation in the future, just open it and save yourself a lot of time.

1) Where to book accommodation?

• We prefer to find an accommodation using Booking.com .
• It's also worth it to compare with AirBnb .
• Read also our guide - How to search for the best accommodation .

2) How to find cheap flights?

• We recommend searching for flights on Skyscanner .
• Read also our complete guide - How to find cheap flights .

3) How to rent a car?

• We recommend a comparison portal RentalCars.com to compare the best offers of all available rental companies.

Pin this post for later or for your friends:

FAQ – Frequently asked questions:

Is there a downloadable map of the best tourist spots in luzon.

Here you can download a map with all the important tourist spots in Luzon.

What are the best tourist spots in Sagada?

Best tourist spots in Sagada are Hanging Coffins, Sagada Caves or Bomok-Ok Waterfall. Read more here about the best tourist spots in Sagada .

What are the best tourist spots in Baguio?

Best tourist spots in Baguio are Mines View Park, Bagui Cathedral, Burnham Park or Botanical Garden. Read more here about the best tourist spots in Sagada .

What are the best activities in Hundred Islands National Park?

Zipline  (Governor’s Island) – 250 PHP. This zipline is definitely worth it! The view is absolutely amazing! Jet ski  – 1000 PHP/15 min. Banana Boat  – 250 PHP Helmet Diving  – 400 PHP. Diving duration — 20 minutes Kayaking  – 250 PHP/hour Hiring a snorkeling set  – 250 PHP for a whole day

Read more here about Hundred Island National Park .

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Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao: The 3 Island Groups of The Philippines

Discover the distinct characteristics, landscapes, and history of the main island groups in the philippines namely luzon, visayas, and mindanao..

While there are more than 7,000 islands in the Philippines, only 2,000 islands are said to be inhabited. Each inhabitable island falls under the country’s main island groups — whether Luzon, Visayas, or Mindanao. These regions are not only subdivided for geographical purposes, but one will notice that there are distinct characteristics, customs, languages in each island group.

Luzon, which was coined after the Tagalog word kalusunan (which means northern part), is the country’s largest island. Hence, it’s expected to have the greatest population among the three island groups. Having an area of 42,458 square miles, Luzon is further subdivided into four major areas — Northern Luzon, Central Luzon, Southern Luzon, and the National Capital Region, which is the country’s center of economic, social, cultural, and financial development.

The island, which is considered to be the 15th largest island in the world, is home to tourist destinations such as Palawan , mountainous terrains, volcanoes such as Mt. Pinatubo, perfect cone-shaped Mt. Mayon, and Taal Volcano as well as numerous lakes, rivers, and plains. In terms of ethno-linguistic groups, the most prominent ones are Ilocano , Kapampangan , Bicolano , Tagalog , and Pangasinense .

Between the regions of Luzon and Mindanao, there lies the small, scattered islands comprising Visayas — the smallest region in terms of land area. The island group of Visayas plays an important role in Philippine History as Ferdinand Magellan discovered the country during his expedition which led him to one of its small islands — Samar. According to historians, the word Visayas was named after the powerful Malayan Srivijaya Empire, which ruled over some of the Visayan islands.

Apart from its rich history, Visayas is also famous for widely celebrated cultural events such as the Dinagyang, Ati-atihan, and Sinulog festivals which are in honor of religious traditions. Both local and foreign tourists also head over to the Visayas region to visit the white-sand beaches of Boracay , Chocolate Hills in Bohol, and see whale sharks in Cebu City. In this region, the three major languages are Cebuano , Waray , and Hiligaynon .

Mindanao, the second largest among the three islands and the southernmost part of the Philippines, is a main contributor of the country’s GDP in terms of agriculture, fishing, forestry, etc. Majority of Filipino Muslims live in this island group, particularly in the Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). Because it is near the island of Borneo, historians mentioned that Sultans of Mindanao became acquainted with the leaders of Borneo who introduced them to the Islam religion.

This island group has mostly mountainous landscapes and home to over 250 bird species. In fact, the country’s tallest mountain, Mt. Apo, and the conservation center for Philippine Eagles can be found in the Mindanao region. The region’s surrounding waters is also known to be home to deep-sea fish, and their Enchanted River located in Surigao del Sur has a depth which until today remains a mystery. Within the region of Mindanao, one may find the city of Davao which is their center of development and is said to be one of the safest cities in the world.

While the islands of the Philippines are scattered and its geographical location can sometimes be a hindrance to the country’s development, the three major islands contribute to strengthen and preserve the Filipino traditions and cultural practices despite regional differences.

THE 10 BEST Luzon Tours & Excursions

Luzon tours.

• Walking Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Spectacular Manila to Tagaytay: Full-Day Sightseeing Tour

2. Discover Tagaytay's Countryside: Half-Day Sightseeing Tour

3. Manila Old and New: Sightseeing Tour Including Intramuros and Fort Santiago

4. 7-Hours Tour of Manila: Eat, Walk & Explore

5. Active Taal Volcano experience 2024 (with transfers)

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8. Manila to Tagaytay Tour (8hours)

9. Experience Intramuros with Bamboo Bicycle - Ecotours

10. Full On 5-7 hours ATV Adventure Rivers-Mountains-Jungle with Transfers Manila

11. Half-Day Manila City Tour

12. Intramuros: History of Old Manila | Manila Walking Tours with Transportation

13. Escape to Enchanting Hidden Valley Springs! with Transfers***

14. Intramuros: History of Old Manila | Manila Walking Tours

15. Pagsanjan Falls & Lake Yambo (2in1 Swimming & Nature Experience)

16. Manila Filipino Cooking Class: Meryenda Favorites

17. Tagaytay, Taal Volcano & Heritage Town: A Journey of Discovery

18. Pagsanjan Falls-Taal Volcano-Tagaytay ultimate Day trip from manila updated 2022

19. Manila by Night: Discovering City Highlights with Intramuros

20. Day hike to Mount Daraitan with Tinipak River 2024

21. Day Hike Mt. Batulao 811 meters with transfers from Manila** 2024

22. Manila Chinatown Walk, Eat and Drink Experience

23. Pagsanjan Falls & Hidden Valley Springs: A Spectacular Combo Tour

24. Manila’s Timeless Wonders: A Walk Through Heritage

25. Ultimate Full Day Albay Bicol Philippines Tour with Mayon Skyline

26. Introduction to Philippine History

27. Explore Chinatown in Manila with Mari

28. Full-Day Tour to Pagsanjan Falls from Manila

29. Makati Street Food tour Experience with Mari

30. Nagpatong Rock Day hike + Tungtong Falls(with transfers**) 2023

What travelers are saying.

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• Discover Tagaytay's Countryside: Half-Day Sightseeing Tour
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• Quick Guides
• Contributors

Quick Guides Your reference to all the fun and sun in one quick look

Look no further in finding the best spots to visit in the region. Use these infographics as a guide for your trips and find access to the best places the region can showcase. All recommended by DOT’s certified and credible travel partners. These infographics can be printed and carried on the go for your next adventure.

• Best of Zamboanga Peninsula Experience Zamboanga Sibugay, Zamboanga Del Sur, and Zamboanga Del Norte through this fun and exciting itinerary. Download
• Best of Isabela de Basilan Visit great tourist attractions and create lasting memories with this travel guide for Isabela de Basilan. Download
• Best of Zamboanga City Visit great tourist attractions and create lasting memories with this itinerary for Zamboanga City. Download
• Best of Cagayan Go through and experience Cagayan’s best through this travel guide that will give you an unforgettable trip with lots of memories. Download
• Best of Isabela Experience Isabela’s best through this travel guide, and be in awe of the many great places that the province has in store. Download
• Best of Quirino Experience Quirino’s bests through this travel guide recommended by the Department of Tourism. Download
• Best of Nueva Vizcaya Come across the wonderful landmarks of Nueva Vizcaya through this travel guide. Download
• Best of Cavite Experience the many underrated yet must-visit locations in Maragondon, Alfonso, Tagaytay, Silang, and Magallanes. Download
• Best of Laguna Get the full Laguna experience by following this weekend itinerary that will give you the best of what the province has to offer. Download
• Best of Batangas Experience Batangas’ best through this two-day tour itinerary recommended by the Department of Tourism. Download
• Best of Rizal Experience the different attractions, unique dishes, and exciting activities by visiting the best tourism sites and restaurants in Rizal. Download
• Best of Quezon Take your trip to the next level by trying these fun activities in Real, Infanta, Lucban, Dolores, Mauban, Tayabas, and General Nakar. Download
• Nueva Vizcaya
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• Zamboanga Del Sur
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The best travel stories are not just told through articles but also through creative comics as well. Check out our collaborations with featured comic artists who reflect on their travel stories and experiences by illustrations.

This is your sign to take a break! De-stress from all the busy and go to Nueva Vizcaya’s Sea of Clouds.

Forest bathing can reduce high blood pressure and boost your immune system! Walking in a shaded forest is as relaxing as the beach. 

Are you #teambundok or #teambeach?

Practice your freedom along the majestic mountains between Cagayan river.

The Governor’s Rapids is a sight with the majestic giant walls of stone that stretch along Cagayan river. Cliff-diving here is an experience! The water is turquoise blue and something worth the trip.

Packing is serious business.

It’s only natural to be prepared! You’ll need extra clothes if you’ll be walking. Having fresh shirts is a must to feel clean in the heat.

When you take a walk in a forest, look around you and take deep breaths. Take in all nature’s healing air and let it calm you.

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Discover Mayon Volcano: A Comprehensive Traveler’s Guide to the Philippines’ Majestic Peak

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of active volcanoes of the Philippines with a journey to the majestic Mayon Volcano, a natural wonder that rivets visitors with its perfect cone shape and vibrant history. This active volcano, residing in the heart of the Bicol Region, is more than just a geological marvel; it’s a symbol of the cultural heritage and resilient spirit of the Filipino people. Let’s embark on a fascinating exploration of this iconic landmark volcanoes.

Key Takeaways

• Mayon Volcano, an active stratovolcano in the Philippines, is known for its near-perfect conical shape and rich cultural and geological history, contributing significantly to the local communities and the fertile soils of the Bicol Region.
• The ideal time to visit Mayon Volcano is during the dry months from March to May, with essential preparations including appropriate clothing, hiking gear, and safety precautions due to the unpredictable nature of volcanic eruptions.
• Comprehensive travel to Mayon Volcano includes transportation options like flights and buses, and exploration activities range from guided tours to adventurous 4×4 ATV rides, while accommodation options vary from budget-friendly lodgings to eco-friendly resorts.

Book your Adventure Now

Exploring mayon volcano: history and significance.

Known as the Philippines’ most active volcano, Mayon Volcano, or Mount Mayon, has erupted over 52 times in the past 500 years. This active stratovolcano, located in southern part of the province of Albay in the southern part of the Bicol Region, is widely regarded as a symbol of perfection due to its almost perfect conical shape. Numerous eruptions over centuries have sculpted this magnificent structure, making it a captivating spectacle for locals and tourists alike.

The communities and towns located around Mayon Volcano bear testimony to the eruption and its rich history. Eight cities, and towns including:

• Santo Domingo

Thrive in the shadow of active volcanoes, including this province’ most active volcano yet. Each eruption, while a display of nature’s raw power, also contributes to the fertile soils, making the province and surrounding lands a bountiful source of crops and aiding in the prosperity of the Bicol Region.

Geological Features

Mayon Volcano, classified as a classic stratovolcano, is world renowned for its symmetrical conical shape with a small central summit crater. Its unique structure is not just a product of its numerous eruptions but also a testament to the delicate balance between erosion and eruption. Some key features of Mayon Volcano include:

• Symmetrical conical shape
• Small central summit crater
• Steep upper slopes with an average gradient of 75%
• One of the most symmetrical volcanic cones in the world

This symmetrical structure is a result of the volcano’s destructive eruption and the erosion that has occurred beneath it over time, influenced by lava flows from the crater during past eruptions.

The volcano’s major eruption has resulted in:

• A minimum of 85 distinguishable lava flows, primarily composed of augite-hypersthene-andesite, as the lava flowed down the slopes
• Pyroclastic flows that result in deposits such as block and ash, alongside breadcrust bombs within an ash and lapilli matrix
• The interplay between erosion and the repetitive eruptions, determined by the angle of repose of ash, which has contributed to the formation of Mayon’s unique and captivating shape.

Cultural Importance

Mayon Volcano’s significance extends beyond its geological features. It holds a special place in the heart of the Bicolano people, being deeply embedded in their culture and folklore. The volcano is named after the legendary princess-heroine Daragang Magayon, which means “Beautiful Lady” in the Bicolano language . Mayon Volcano also shapes the themes of local festivals, reflecting its mythical origins and impressive presence.

As such, a visit to Mt Mayon is not just an exploration of the mountains and its physical beauty but also a journey into the vibrant culture and traditions of the Bicolano people, as showcased by the Philippine Institute.

Best Time and Preparations for Visiting Mayon Volcano

A comfortable and safe journey to Mayon Volcano requires careful consideration of the best time to visit and necessary preparations. The best time to visit Mayon Volcano is during the dry months from March to May, when the weather is most favorable for outdoor activities. Temperatures during this time hover around 89°F (32°C) during the day and drop to around 79°F (26°C) at night, creating ideal conditions for hiking and sightseeing.

As for preparations, here are some essential items to bring:

• Light, breathable, and comfortable clothing suitable for the hot, humid weather
• High-quality hiking boots
• Long sleeves

These items will help protect you against the sun and ensure your comfort during the hike. Remember, Mayon is an active volcano, and its eruptions can be unpredictable. Safety should always be your foremost concern.

Ideal Season and Weather Conditions

While Mayon Volcano can be visited at any time of the year, the dry season from November to April is particularly favorable for tourists. The peak tourist season occurs from March to May, as the weather conditions during the southern part of this period are ideal for exploring the volcano and its surroundings. However, if you prefer to avoid the crowds and savor the tranquillity of the region, the off-peak season from November to early morning of December is worth considering.

Bear in mind that a visit during the rainy season could lead to explosive eruptions, landslides, and lahars due to weather conditions, potentially resulting in the most lethal eruption.

Necessary Gear and Safety Precautions

Packing the right gear is a crucial part of planning your visit to Mayon Volcano. Here are some recommended items to bring:

• Good quality hiking boots
• Waterproof clothing
• An emergency kit containing water, food, and other necessary hiking items

These items will help protect you against the elements and ensure a safe and enjoyable hike or ATV ride on Mayon Volcano.

Remember to pack sufficient water and food to ensure proper hydration and nutrition during your trek. After all, a well-prepared traveler is a happy and safe traveler.

Getting to Mayon Volcano and Nearby Attractions

After determining the ideal time to visit and preparing your gear, you can start planning your journey to Mayon Volcano. Here are the steps to get there:

• Take a flight from Manila to Legazpi City, the nearest city to Mayon Volcano.
• From Legazpi City, you can take a bus or a taxi to reach the volcano.
• Various bus lines including Cagsawa, DLTB, and Penafrancia provide services from Manila to Legazpi.
• If you prefer a more scenic route, you can also take a ferry from Masbate Port to Legazpi.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore the attractions around Mayon Volcano while you’re in the area. Here are some nearby attractions to check out:

• Cagsawa Ruins Park: offers an intriguing glimpse into the area’s history
• Sumlang Lake: provides stunning views of the volcano and the surrounding landscapes
• Ligñon Hill: offers panoramic views of the volcano and the surrounding area

Transportation Options

Considering the various transportation options is an important part of planning your trip to Mayon Volcano. Direct flights from Manila to Legazpi City are operated by airlines such as AirAsia and Philippine Airlines, offering a quick and convenient way to reach the volcano. For a more economical option, you can also take a bus from Manila to Legazpi City. Several companies provide bus services, making it easy to plan your journey.

The road trip from Manila to Mayon Volcano takes approximately 3½ hours, offering a swift journey to the destination. The typical expense for a flight ticket to Mayon Volcano is approximately $52, while the lowest expense for traveling by road from Makati City to Mayon Volcano is around ₱1251.

Nearby Attractions

Exploring the nearby attractions is essential to complete your visit to Mayon Volcano. The Cagsawa Ruins Park and Cagsawa National Museum are prominent attractions that provide a glimpse into the area’s history and offer picturesque views of the volcano.

For those looking for an adventure on Luzon Island, activities like balsa rides, cultural demonstrations, kayaking, and aqua biking are available at Sumlang Lake. The Ligñon Hill offers a range of activities including hiking, climbing, zip line, and rappelling, as well as a panoramic 360-degree view of the Mayon Volcano during the day.

Experiencing Mayon Volcano: Tours and Activities

With knowledge on getting to Mayon Volcano and its nearby mountains and attractions , let’s explore the exciting tours and activities available at the highest point of this majestic peak. Whether you prefer a guided tour or an adventurous activity , climbing Mayon Volcano offers a wide range of options to suit your interests. For novice hikers, a trek up the mountains to the highest point, Camp 1, which typically takes 2-3 hours, is suggested. However, more experienced hikers can ascend the mountains as high as Camp 2 or beyond to a location referred to as ‘Rabbit’s Ear’.

One of the most popular activities on Mayon Volcano is the 4×4 ATV ride. This adventurous ride takes you through rice fields, forests, and volcanic rocks along a trail that leads to the mountain’s Lava Wall. The ATV ride not only provides an adrenaline rush but also offers a unique perspective of the volcano’s geological features. From the lush vegetation to the rocky terrain, each part of the trail offers a different experience, making it a must-do activity for any visitor . Just remember to wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and bring an emergency kit for safety.

Guided Tours

If you prefer a guided tour , there are several reputable tour companies offering guided tours of Mayon Volcano. These include:

• Bicol Region Tours
• Trevally Travel & Tours
• Guide to the Philippines
• Mayon Skydrive

These tours offer a comprehensive overview of the volcano and its surroundings, providing you with a wealth of information about its history, geology, and significance.

With a knowledgeable guide at your side, you can gain a deeper understanding of Mayon Volcano, volcanology and volcanoes and its impact on the local communities.

Adventurous Activities

For those with an adventurous spirit, Mayon Volcano offers a range of activities that will get your adrenaline pumping. One of the most popular activities is the Mayon 4×4 ATV ride, which takes you through rice fields, forests, lava and volcanic rocks along a designated trail leading to the Lava Wall. This adventurous ride offers a unique way to explore the volcano and its surroundings, giving you the opportunity to see parts of the volcano that are usually inaccessible.

Remember to wear comfortable clothes and shoes for the ride, and bring an emergency kit for safety.

Accommodation Options Near Mayon Volcano

A comfortable place to rest and recharge is necessary after a day of exploring Mayon Volcano and its surroundings. Fortunately, there are plenty of accommodation options near the volcano, catering to a variety of budgets and preferences. From high-end hotels to budget-friendly lodgings, there’s something to suit every traveler’s needs. You can even choose to stay at eco-friendly accommodations that prioritize sustainability.

The typical expense for accommodation near Mayon Volcano is approximately USD 31 per night, offering a variety of options to accommodate different budgets. Most accommodations are conveniently located within 1.9 to 3.1 miles from the volcano, making it easy to access the majestic peak for sunrise or sunset views.

Hotels and Resorts

There are several highly-rated hotels and accommodations located near Mayon Volcano, including:

• Hotel St. Ellis
• Balai Tinay Guesthouse
• Emerald Boutique Hotel
• ParmView Inn
• The Marison Hotel
• Your Brothers House Tribal Village
• Hotel Venezia
• Casablanca Suites
• Alicia Hotel
• The Oriental Legazpi

These establishments offer a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay , and many offer stunning views of the volcano.

Even budget-friendly options don’t skimp on comfort or convenience, making it easy to find an accommodation that fits your needs and budget.

Unique Stays

If you’re looking for a unique stay , there are several options near Mayon Volcano that offer a one-of-a-kind experience. You can consider staying at a private treehouse available on Airbnb , which offers direct views of the volcano. For eco-conscious travelers , there are eco-friendly lodgings such as Casa Basilisa Eco Boutique Resort by Cocotel, Lotus Blu Hotel , Misibis Bay Resort, and Go Hotels Plus Naga , all of which are recognized for their commitment to eco-friendly practices.

These unique stays offer a memorable experience, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of the Mayon Volcano natural park while minimizing your environmental impact.

Local Delicacies and Dining Options

Savoring the local delicacies is an integral part of your visit to Mayon Volcano. The region’s cuisine, known as Bicolano cuisine, is world renowned for its flavorful dishes such as:

• Bicol Express
• Pancit Bato

These dishes, made with indigenous ingredients like Pili Nuts, Kusido, Boiled Pili Fruit, Nilubak or Nilupak, Rice Puto Bukayo, and Biniribid or Chakoy, offer a gastronomic adventure that’s as exciting as the volcano itself.

Whether you’re craving traditional Bicolano cuisine or looking for a fine dining experience, there are several dining options near Mayon Volcano that cater to every palate. Some of the top-rated restaurants in the area include:

• Colonial Grill
• Small Talk Cafe
• Layag Restaurant and Grill
• Sibid-Sibid Food Park
• Four Seasons
• Balay Cena Una
• 1st Colonial Grill
• Balay Sa Bikol

These restaurants offer a range of dining options from casual bites to exquisite meals.

Bicolano Cuisine

Bicolano cuisine is known for its distinctive flavors, characterized by the use of coconut milk and chili. Renowned dishes include Bicol Express, a spicy pork dish cooked in coconut milk, and Laing, a spicy dish made with taro leaves and coconut milk.

Another unique delicacy is the Sili Ice Cream, a dessert made with red hot chili peppers or Thai Chili blended with coconut cream, offering a combination of spicy and sweet flavors. These dishes, with their unique combination of flavors, offer a culinary experience that’s as memorable as the majestic view of the volcano itself.

Recommended Restaurants

When it comes to dining, the area surrounding Mayon Volcano offers a plethora of options. For those seeking an authentic taste of Bicolano cuisine, Balay Cena Una, 1st Colonial Grill, Balay Sa Bikol, and Small Talk Cafe are highly recommended. If you’re looking for a fine dining experience, establishments like Balay Cena Una, 1st Colonial Grill, Layag Restaurant and Grill, and Four Seasons Restaurant Legazpi offer a sophisticated dining experience with stunning views of the volcano.

For a more relaxed dining experience, you can visit casual eateries such as 1st Colonial Grill, Sibid-Sibid Food Park, and Balay Cena Una.

Responsible Tourism and Environmental Conservation

Practicing responsible tourism is crucial for visitors to Mayon Volcano to ensure the preservation of its natural beauty and biodiversity for future generations. This includes:

• Adhering to the rules and regulations of Mayon Volcano Natural Park
• Choosing to stay at eco-friendly accommodations
• Supporting local markets and businesses

By doing so, you not only contribute to the local economy but also help in the conservation of the park’s diverse flora and fauna.

Tourists can support local communities by:

• Visiting ecotourism destinations
• Staying at eco-friendly hotels
• Experiencing the Bicolano hospitality that ensures guests’ stay is comfortable and worry-free

After all, responsible tourism is not just about enjoying the beauty and charm of a place but also about leaving a positive impact on the environment and the local community.

Protecting the Natural Park

Due to its diverse ecosystems and natural resources, the preservation of Mayon Volcano Natural Park, also known as Mayon Volcano National Park, is of utmost importance to government. The protected natural park is home to 156 floral species, 83 varieties of trees, and 104 species of land vertebrates, including several endemic species. The protection of the protected park is ensured by government, through the implementation of Presidential Proclamation No. 413, which mandates that all activities within the protected park align with conservation objectives.

As visitors, it’s our responsibility to respect these regulations and do our part in preserving the park’s natural beauty and biodiversity.

Supporting Local Communities

An integral part of responsible tourism is supporting local communities. By patronizing local markets and businesses, we contribute to the local economy, support farmers, and help create economic opportunities. Moreover, participating in community-based tourism initiatives provides an opportunity to:

• Learn about the local culture and traditions
• Engage with local communities
• Support local artisans and craftsmen
• Experience authentic local cuisine
• Contribute to sustainable development

This enriches our travel experience and ensures that our tourism activities have a positive impact on the local community.

By choosing to support local communities, we not only make our travel more meaningful but also contribute to the sustainability of the places we visit.

The majestic Mayon Volcano, with its almost perfect cone of almost perfect cone shape, and rich history, offers an unparalleled travel experience. From exploring its unique geological features and cultural significance to savoring the flavors of Bicolano cuisine and participating in adventurous activities , a visit to Mayon Volcano is an adventure in itself. The journey to this natural wonder is not just about appreciating its physical beauty, but also about understanding its importance to the local communities and playing our part in its preservation. As we conclude this guide , we hope that it has provided you with valuable insights to plan your trip to Mayon Volcano and inspired you to explore this Philippine gem responsibly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is mayon volcano known for.

Mayon Volcano crater is known for its perfectly conical shape, a crater which is regarded as sacred in Philippine mythology and has attracted tourists the country and world over. It is also considered one of the most active and dangerous volcanoes in the southern Philippines.

What caused Mount Mayon to erupt?

The 1814 eruption of Mount Mayon was caused by the mixing of intermediate andesite magma with a larger basaltic andesite magma, leading to an explosive eruption. Magma mixing triggered the eruption and volcanic activity .

How is Mayon Volcano now?

Mayon Volcano is currently at Alert Level 3, indicating an eruption of a high level of unrest and the possibility of an eruption of a hazardous eruption within weeks or even days.

What cities and provinces are near Mayon Volcano?

The cities, towns and provinces near Mayon Volcano are Legazpi, Ligao, Tabaco, Guinobatan, Camalig, Daraga, Sto. Domingo, and Malilipot in the province of Albay, Philippines. These towns and communities and province constitute the immediate environment around Mt. Mayon.

What is the best time to visit Mayon Volcano?

The best time to visit the Mayon Volcano natural park is during the dry months from March to May, when the weather is hot and humid, perfect for outdoor activities .

Hello! I'm Wise, a Filipina with a deep love for my country and a passion for sharing its beauty with the world. As a writer, blogger, and videographer, I capture the essence of the Philippines through my eyes, hoping to give foreign visitors a true taste of what makes these islands so special.

From the vibrant streets of Manila to the tranquil beaches of Palawan, my journey is about uncovering the hidden gems and everyday wonders that define the Filipino spirit. My articles and blogs are not just travel guides; they are invitations to explore, to feel, and to fall in love with the Philippines, just as I have.

Through my videos, I strive to bring the sights, sounds, and stories of my homeland to life. Whether it's the local cuisine, the colorful festivals, or the warm smiles of the people, I aim to prepare visitors for an authentic experience.

For those seeking more than just a vacation, the Philippines can be a place of discovery and, perhaps, even love. My goal is to be your guide, not just to the places you'll visit, but to the experiences and connections that await in this beautiful corner of the world. Welcome to the Philippines, through my eyes. Let's explore together!

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