An enchanting archipelago of more than 7,000 islands, the Philippines serves up mist-shrouded mountains, white-sand beaches, and jewel-toned water in Southeast Asia. Often lesser-known than its Indonesian, Malaysian, and Thai neighbors, the Philippines attracts travelers looking to stray from the beaten path. Both cities and less populated areas beckon: Get a healthy dose of colonial history and metropolitan chaos on a tour of Manila; hike amid staggering natural scenery on guided trips to the Taal volcano and Tagaytay Ridge; marvel at Bohol’s Chocolate Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; or escape from the madness of modern life in Palawan, where Coron Island and Kayangan Lake provide a serene retreat on an ecotour. The caves of Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park provide ample wildlife watching opportunities; while Cebu City, the thriving port capital of the Cebu province, serves as an excellent jumping-off point for Moalboal, where backpackers flock to dive, drink, and dine. From Manila, tours of Fort Santiago (built by a Spanish conquistador) and Corregidor Island (long fortified against attack) reveal the Philippines’ rich history. From Oslob, strong swimmers can snorkel alongside whale sharks in crystal-clear waters. And from Malay, sun-worshippers can spend the day hopping between the islets surrounding Boracay island, the epitome of a coastal paradise.
Attractions 66 | Tours 1,088 | Reviews 4,253 |
The Philippines comprise more than 7,500 islands. They’re famous for island-hopping, diving, and beautiful beaches, as well as wildlife from whale sharks to tiny, bug-eyed tarsiers, landscapes from rice terraces to volcanoes, and colorful transportation including jeepneys and tricycles. Some of the best-known islands are Luzon, Cebu, Bohol, Boracay, and Palawan.
...MoreThe Philippines fall within the Coral Triangle, a hugely biodiverse marine area, so diving, snorkeling and island-hopping are popular. But the islands are also an up-and-coming surf destination, with water sports from parasailing to stand-up paddleboarding on offer. Volcano climbs, waterfall adventures, mangrove tours, and firefly river trips are popular.
...MoreBohol signatures include the Chocolate Hills rock formations and tarsiers; Palawan offers the Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage site, island-hopping at El Nido, and wreck diving in Coron; Luzon boasts volcanoes, soaring rice terraces, UNESCO-listed churches, and the Pagsanjan Falls rapids. Fiestas are crazy colorful, especially around Easter.
...MoreNot entirely. Both the UK Foreign Office and the US Department of State advise against travel to Mindanao island and the Sulu archipelago for fear of kidnapping. Street crime and robbery are common, while maritime safety is poor: don’t display valuables in the street and never get on a crowded boat.
...MoreOutside Manila, $100 can go a long way in the Philippines. Scuba diving can cost as little as US$25 for a boat dive; a double room in a basic hotel can cost just $15. You can eat street food for just a couple of bucks and spend $5-10 on a long-distance bus ride.
...MoreThe single most popular entertainment in the Philippines is cinema, be that in multiplex malls or beachfront outdoor cinemas. Other popular entertainments include gambling—Manila boasts several Vegas-style casinos—cockfighting, boxing matches, beauty contests, and karaoke. The islands’ many different cultures boast rich traditions of music and dance, as well as fabulous fiestas.
...More
