Located in Southeast Asia, the Philippines is an archipelagic country having natural resources and some of the world’s greatest biodiversity. The country with the capital city Manila is the eighth-most populated country in Asia and the 12th most populated country in the world. Here, multiple ethnicities and cultures are found on the land having an area of 300,000 km2.
The Philippines uses two languages as its official language, English and Filipino, which is basically Tagalog. The country’s natural resources include wood, petroleum, cobalt, silver, gold, salt, and copper. The richest land is in the central plains and the Cagayan River valley in Luzon and in parts of Mindanao. Many wild animals such as civets, civets, Malayan civets, porcupines, wild tamarau (small buffalo), and long-tailed macaques live in the Philippines. There are around 1,000 species of birds, including brightly colored parrots. More than 2,000 species of fish inhabit Philippine waters.
All Things You Must Know about Philippines Tourism
Beaches, mountains, rainforests, islands, and diving spots are the biodiversity belonging to the Philippines. In addition, numerous beaches, caves, and other rock formations, warm climate all year round, beaches, and low cost of living become the reason for the favorite retirement destinations. Many historic towns can be found here like Vigan in Ilocos Sur, the Chocolate Hills in Bohol, Magellan’s Cross in Cebu and the Tubbataha Reef in the Visayas are other highlights.
Geography Philippines Tourism
The Philippines is in the western part of the Pacific Ocean, northeast of Borneo, and south of Taiwan. There are three main island groups. Luzon group in the north, Middle group, and Mindanao group in the south. Some rivers are important as a source of hydroelectric power. Most rivers are too short or heavy for commercial navigation purposes. The Philippine average annual rainfall is around 2,030 mm and can vary greatly between regions.
Mountains in the Philippines
Mountains become a natural tourist spot that you must visit while on vacation in the Philippines. Through its geographic conditions, the Philippines has a very beautiful mountain contour and is ideal for climbing destinations. So for those of you who are interested in climbing the mountains in the Philippines.
1. Mount Apo
Standing 2,954 meters above sea level, Mount Apo takes first place for the highest peak in the Philippines. The dormant volcano having three major summits and a crater that is home to the crystal clear Lake Venado located near Davao City and Davao del Sur. Climbing this mount has challenges because you have steep trails, thick mossy forests, and giant rock boulders, but the reward of conquering the Philippines grandaddy peak is pretty sweet.
2. Mount Kanlaon
Looking for trekking one of the most beautiful mountains in the Philippines, Mount Kanlaon is the answer. Here you can see so incredible scenery, that you’ll have trouble not falling in love with this place. The highest and most active volcano in the Visayas has a range of craters, cones, sulphuric vents, and caves on the trail. You can enjoy your eyes by seeing the hot springs, natural gardens, and mini forests.
3. Mount Pinatubo
It is an active stratovolcano that erupted the last time in 1991. Although this mountain was once a terror for the surrounding residents, today the mountain becomes very fertile and has a very beautiful natural panorama. You can see the beautiful valleys and lakes that make this mountain a favorite destination for climbers.
4. Mount Maculot
You can enjoy a view of 930 meters above sea level when having your vacation in Mt. Maculot. Because located in Cuenca, Batangas, you can reach the place only an hour and a few minutes away from Manila. This place is the ideal go-to spot for amateur climbers but you can get to the campsite and bask in the glorious view of Taal Lake.
5. Mount Daguldol
If you visit Mount Daguldol, you will be treated to two different natural elements, namely sea, and mountain. The base of Gunung Daguldol is a long stretch of beach making it a popular destination for tourists. The soil surface is very soft, there are local people who are very friendly and you can also enjoy fresh drinks made by local people.
6. Mount Batulao
For the first climbers but you want to see a view on the mount, you can try to climb Mt. Batulao. This mount has just 811 meters above the sea making it just the perfect mountain to climb. Here you can relax with green landscapes and rolling slopes. You can get it easily because it’s in close proximity to the city.
7. Mount Pico de Loro
Talk about mountain climbing in the Philippines, you can try Mt. Pico de Loro. It’s because the mount only 664 meters above sea level but you can stay overnight here. It’s suitable for spending your vacation with your friends, then spend the night at the amazing peaks of Mt. Pico de Loro is a great way to keep togetherness with your beloved ones.
8. Mount Manabu
The mountain which is a part of the mountain ranges of Malarayat is very aced able from Manila. It stands at 760 meters above sea level located in Batangas. A large white on the peak of Mt. Manabu can be reached in about 2 hours. You can enjoy the view of the campsite and colorful flora.
Read More: Attention! Before Going to Boracay
Island and Beaches in the Philippines
Beach lovers will find an unforgettable vacation in a tropical utopia when in the Philippines. There are many beaches that you can enjoy because the number of beach destinations in the Philippines is overwhelming, so you have to manage your time to visit them.
1. El Nido in Palawan
Some of the famous objects in Palawan are Tubbataha Reef National Marine Park and Puerto Princessa Underground River. El Nido in Palawan is one of the beaches and islands in the Philippines because of its “extraordinary splendor and natural ecosystem”. There are around 50 white sand beaches, five types of forests, three main marine habitats, and many different bird species.
2. Boracay Island
Boracay has 4 charming beaches including, Puka Beach, Billabong Beach, White Beach, Bailing Hai Beach. Among the four beaches, the most crowded is White Beach. You can start activities from water sports, scuba diving, and snorkeling, to nightlife with large pubs, bars, and restaurants, to a relaxed and calm environment.
Read Also: Top 5 Most Visited Islands in Eastern Visayas Philippines
3. Siargao Island
One more beautiful beach tour which is a paradise for surfers both beginners and professionals who are already Siargao Island. This location has big waves that are challenging. Here you can also enjoy the beauty of the underwater and mangrove forests.
4. Puerto Galera
You have to know that Puerto Galera is located in Oriental Mindoro Province, about 130 km south of Manila. The name Puerto Galera is used among tourists to refer to areas around the city too, including Sabang and White Beach. Puerto Galera offers beautiful white sand beaches that are good for swimming, relaxation, snorkeling, and sailing. It also offers one of the most diverse dive sites in Asia and has the densest population of marine species in the world according to research conducted by the University of Philippines.
5. Caramoan Island
You can find beautiful white sand beach tours and have waves that are friendly to their name, Caramoan. This beach is still quiet and rarely visited by tourists, so if you choose this location as a tourist destination, it seems you have your own beach.
6. Pagudpud
It is an island located 350 miles north of the city of Manila. The area has a beach with white and clean sand. Pagudpun Beach is often equated with beaches in Hawaii. There are lots of activities that you can do here, like swimming, playing water, surfing or boating. You can even sit back and enjoy the beauty of the beach.
7. Tubbataha Reff
Tubbattaha Reff saves the beauty of an amazing underwater tour, there are over 300 species of coral reefs and over 600 species of fish. You can also see 12 species of dolphins and whales. It truly presents world-class diving tours do not be surprised if this is a paradise for divers.
Caves in the Philippines
Not only beaches and mountains that will make your vacation memorable, but also various caves Does. You can enjoy the natural beauty among the rocks that have existed millions of years ago.
1. Puerto Prinsesa Underground River
Enjoy your travel by visiting one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. You can look at the 8.2-kilo river winding its way underneath a mountain range, through the St. Paul Underground River Cave, and then you can go out into the South China Sea. You only do your journey 4.3km easily but for doing the 3.9km journey, you have to obtain a special permit.
2. Aglipay Caves
Visit the caves are popular among tourists, the Aglipay Caves. It is an eco-tourism site located in Quirino province in the Cagayan Region. There are 37 interlinked underground chambers, but only 8 chambers have been explored. Here you can do camping facilities and modern accommodations.
3. Hinagdanan Cave
Seeing a large number of stalactites make your interest to take a moment here. A large number of stalactites hangs from the ceiling, and matching stalagmites sticking out of the earth below them. The cave located in the municipality of Dauis on Panglao Island, Bohol leads to a large underground cavern that contains a pond.
4. Calbiga Cave (Langun-Gobingob Caves)
Not only holding the title as the biggest cave in the Philippines but also Langun Gobingob is also said to be the second-largest cave in Asia. The cave located in the town of Calbiga, Samar Island National Park is the biggest natural park in the Philippines.
5. Tali Cliff Jump Site (Nasugbu, Batangas)
Enjoy your holiday by visiting a sea cave being uniquely formed by the erosion of the surrounding cliff face. You can be here during low tide because you get access to the caves. The caves having the floor from the beach sand burrow into the cliff face about 10 to 15 meters. Forgetting this place you are only accessible by the water, either via cliff jump site or boat.
6. Calinawan Cave
The cave located in Tanay, Rizal Province is a privately owned cave that is open to the public for an entry fee of P20. This cave has many meaning historical significance with this cave in that it was used during the Spanish-American War as a hideout. The local television programs often use this place for film. Batlag Falls and Daranak Falls nearby add well worth a visit.
7. Biak na Bato National Park
Being caves as your tourism attractions Biak na Bato National Park will be your heaven. Here you can see many types of caves, it is amazing. Mostly limestone caves with some amazing rock formations and come in all shapes and sizes. Here, there are a couple of underground rivers very easy to navigate your way around.
Others Natural Attractions
Besides the most beautiful places above, there are also some natural beauties that you can find in the Philippines!
1. Banaue Rice Terrace
Another connected tourist attractions are Banaue Rice Terrace. Named the rice terrace as a tourist spot it is persuasive in the Philippines. The location of the rice fields was at an altitude of 1,500 meters above sea level. For those who want to travel with family, you can visit this one tourist spot.
2. Chocolate Hills
Another unique tourist attractions that you can visit while in the Philippines are Chocolate Hills. Chocolate Hills is an area where there are over 1,500 hills. The hill is covered by green grass that can turn brown in the dry season.
3. Batanes
Stand on the hills in Batanes, like in New Zealand. Green expanse as far as the eye can see, with the sea at the far end. There are at least 10 destinations if you set foot here. Basco Lighthouse, Marlboro Hill, and St Dominic de Guzman’s Cathedral are some of them.
4. Camiguin Island
This island holds several springs. The most famous, Ardent and Tangub. Not just soaking, you can explore underwater by snorkeling or diving. Camiguin also has Katibawasan and Tuasan waterfalls that are equally beautiful.
Popular Tourist City in the Philippines
The Philippines has a capital city, Manila stands on more than 7,000 islands and has many cities. Then they have divided over 120 cities which are then categorized into 80 provinces which are then grouped into 17 regions. They are rich in cultures and histories, but here you only will know some of the popular tourist cities in the Philippines.
1. Manila
Manila, the capital city of the Philippines, is one of the most densely populated cities in the world. You can know historical landmarks and sights widely scattered around the city and its surrounding metropolitan area of Metro. Many tourist attractions can be found here.
- Beyond Metro Manila
- Intramuros
- Binondo
- Bonifacio Global City
- Poblacion, Makati
- Maginhawa Street, Quezon City
- Ayala Center, Makati City
- Mall of Asia
2. Bacolod City
Having vacationed in the Philippines, you can be in Bacolod known as the “City of Smiles”. It’s because the Mass Kara Festival which is a festival held annually on 19 October is one of the gateways to Negros Island and the home of the famous Bacolod Chicken Inasal.
- San Sebastian Cathedral
- The Bandstand
- Negros MuseumProvincial Capital and Lagoon
- Panaad Park and Stadium
- Pope John Paul II Tower
3. Baguio City
Visiting the Philippines in summer, you don’t miss Baguio in your list of tourism attractions. You will feel fresh stay here because of its cool weather and you can also relax in well-maintained parks. Others you can see scenic areas, as well as being the home of the “Igorot”, the indigenous peoples of the Cordilleras.
- Mines View Park
- Valley of Colours
- La Trinidad Strawberry Farm
- Tam-Aean Village
- BenCab Museum
- Camp John Hay
- Burnham Park
4. Cebu City
The city known as the “Queen City of the South” is the first city founded by Spaniards in the Philippines. Another way, Cebu is called a major center for commerce, industry, culture, and tourism. For you want to have many experiences you can visit Cebu as your tourism attractions.
- Cebu Heritage Monument
- Colon Street
- 1730 Jesuit House
- Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral
- Mountain View Nature Park
- Basilica del Santo Nino
- Tops Lookout
Read Also: Look at! 4 Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal
5. Davao City
Durian lovers cannot miss this place for having a vacation because Davao is known for its Durian fruit. The city has the largest land area in the world is the home of Mount Apo, the Philippines’ tallest mountain.
- Crocodile Park
- Jack’s Ridge
- Dahican Beach
- Kopiat Island
- China Town
- Island Buenavista
- Philippine Eagle Center
6. Zamboanga City
Knowing religions developing in the Philippines, you can visit Zamboanga. Here you can see the melting pot between the Philippines’ Christian and Muslim cultures, boasting old mosques, grand churches, and historic colonial structures. Another way, this city is known as “La Ciudad Latina de Asia” (Asia’s Latin City).
- Little Santa Cruz Island
- Merloquet Falls
- Paseo del Mar
- Rio Hondo Village
- Pasonanca Park
- Great Santa Cruz Island
Philippines Culture
The culture of the Philippines is a combination of Eastern and Western cultures but a significant number of Spanish and American influences. This county has traditional festivities to commemorate the feast days of patron saints and times for feasting, music, and dancing and it’s called barrio fiestas (district festivals). Other the most well-known festivals are the Ati-Atihan, Moriones, and Sinulog festivals.
Traditional dances, the Bayanihan Philippine National Folk Dance Company has been lauded for preserving many of the various traditional folk dances. The iconic performances of Philippine dances such as the tinikling and singkil become interesting dances when performed. The Philippines also has the tribal music is Koyu No Tebulul of the T’boli and Ambo Hato of the Ifugao often accompanied by gong music and one well-known instrument is the Kulintang. Christianity is the most popular religion in the Philippines.
National Holiday in the Philippines
The Philippines has 18 national holidays each year with 4 of these holidays are considered “special non-working” days. According to the Labour Code of the Philippines, all employees are entitled to receive a paid day off for the 14 national holidays. There are the holidays celebrated each year are based on religious beliefs. The dates can be changed because the celebration days are calculated using the lunar cycle. The islands considered Muslim faith islands replaced some of the Christian holidays with different Muslim holidays.
Taste Traditional Food Philippines
Being one of the countries that have many beautiful and impressive island attractions makes the Philippines a lot of tourists. There are many tourist attractions crowned by UNESCO as a world heritage site. However, interesting things are not just tourist attractions, because Filipino cuisine is also famous for being unique and delicious.
1. Adobo chicken
Chicken adobo is a recommended food when in the Philippines. Just like other dishes, adobo chicken can be different recipes and contents. Basically, adobo chicken is made from chicken (it can also be pork or seafood) cooked with soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic. It is usually best eaten with hot, white rice.
2. Lechon
known as roast pork is a food that must be served every time a celebration in the Philippines. Like birthdays, Christmas, Fiesta, and weddings. Because it is a very basic food, on occasion, it will feel incomplete without the presence of roast pork. In the Philippines itself, this food is very easy to find. With crispy and soft skin, the meat that is called for is truly appetizing.
3. Beef Caldereta
This is certainly a food that should not be missed when visiting the land of “Uncle Marcos”. Beef Caldereta is a dish made from tomatoes, pasta vinegar, and pepper. And you can also make difference with added potatoes and carrots make the dish more nutritious. For the choice of meat, just like Adobo, you can also change it as you wish.
4. Kinilaw Typical Filipino Food
From the beginning, the typical Filipino food is very extreme, including this food. Kinilaw is a food derived from raw tuna given vinegar and oranges. Then add chili and onion to taste spicy and delicious.
5. Polvoron
It is a type of bread made from flour, sugar, milk, and beans. The taste of this food is sweet and savory from the beans. It is suitable for casual time with family or close friends.
6. Kuhol Sa Gata
You like foods that are extraordinarily trying Kohul Sa Gata. This is a food made from snails mixed with coconut milk. To be more stable, this food is also sometimes mixed with vegetables and chili to make it more stable. This food is usually served when relaxing with family watching TV or friends.
7. Balut
Regarded as the most exotic food in the Philippines, balut has been labeled as food that must be tried by foreign tourists who want to try the taste of local food. Street food, which is a duck embryo that is boiled alive and eaten from its shell, is believed to stimulate vitality and medicine for heavy drinking.
8. Taba Ng Talangka
The first Filipino food is made from rice or noodles with delicious spices. This one food is made from crabs or a kind of shredded fruit, so it’s not surprising if the taste served by this food has a savory taste and is very delicious when eaten. Usually, this one food is also served with various kinds of vegetables and given sprinkles.
9. Curry
It is undeniable that it turns out that Southeast Asian food has almost the same taste or seasoning as the typical food from the Philippines this one is curry. The sauce displayed on Filipino food is more liquid. In addition, it is usually also equipped with a variety of fresh vegetables.
10. Bicol Express
For those of you who have a fondness for eating spicy foods, then when you come to the Philippines do not miss not tasting the typical food that is owned. The typical food is called Bicol express. This food has a very spicy flavor because it is equipped with lots of chilies. The main ingredient for making this food is pork and Labuyo Siling. The ingredients are then cooked with coconut milk until the texture becomes soft.
11. Chicken Stew
This food comes from Spain. Because the Philippines had been colonized by the Spanish state so this food became a typical Filipino food. This food is made from chicken, beans, and bananas. Many make this food to be eaten every day.
12. Sisig
For those of you who want to enjoy the delicacy of processed food from basic innards, culinary with this sisig can be tried. This food itself is made from basic ingredients in the form of meat, liver, intestines, and gizzard. Cooked with herbs that are rich in spices make you addicted to this culinary meal.
13. Halo-halo
Besides food, try also drinks made from jackfruit, coconut meat, palm fruit, sweet potatoes, ice cream, nata de coco, sticky rice, corn, and fresh milk. This drink is very fresh and delicious. Usually served for dessert.
Philippines Souvenirs
Having a satisfying trip and having filled your stomach with delicious food, don’t forget to buy souvenirs as souvenirs. There are various choices of souvenirs that you can buy in Manila, ranging from t-shirts, knick-knacks, to typical Filipino food or drinks.
1. Philippines T-shirt
Going abroad especially in the Philippines will be useless if you go home without buying souvenirs. You can buy souvenir shirts for your family and close relatives. The unique designs and images on the t-shirts that you buy at Filipina certainly make you and the gift recipient happy.
2. Jeepney Miniature
This item can be a choice of typical Philippine souvenirs to buy and you are long at home. Jeepney itself is a typical Filipino public transport. Jeepney has a shape like a bus with a long body and can accommodate many people. However, Jeepneys have several parts that make this vehicle look distinctive. This transportation even operates in the Philippines from the time of World War 2.
3. Lambanog
It is a drink with intoxicating levels of vodka with traditional manufacturing methods. Vodka contained in Lambanog comes from coconut which is distilled from unopened coconut palm sugar. This one drink is clear like mineral water and has an alcoholic content of 40%, enough to get you drunk if you drink too much.
4. Barong Tagalog
You can buy Barong Tagalog as a gift for people who are important to you, such as your spouse, father, or boss in the office. You can buy Barong Tagalog as a gift for people who are important to you, such as your spouse, father, or boss in the office.
5. Pickled Mango
For culinary souvenirs, you can buy pickled mango. When visiting Manila, visit various tourist attractions. There are several places where you can try various refreshing mango culinary delights. After that, you can buy dried pickled mango which you can bring home as a typical Manila souvenir. The price offered is p148 per 100 grams for one package.
6. Jewel
The Philippines is a country that is quite famous for its pearl jewel. Various jewel made from pearls can be found here, ranging from necklaces, earrings, rings, bracelets, to brooches. The pearl is not only limited to white, but there are also gold and beige pearls that have a luxurious impression.
7. Knick-knacks
You can also find a variety of modern, modern fashion items in the Philippines. You can buy various items that will definitely be liked by your friends and family. Ranging from mini bags, wallets, mugs, tote bags, and much more. All of these items have a contemporary design but are still typical of the Philippines.
Transportation in the Philippines
1. Jeepney
When going on a vacation in the Philippines, you don’t need to be difficult to get transportation because there are several transportations that you can use Jeepney is a mode of transportation that is cheap and fun. Jeepney is cool transportation and you don’t need to memorize routes. Just look at the writing route on the body of the car or immediately ask the driver whether the Jeepney route through your destination.
2. Kalesa
There are many around Ermita Intramuros. Be careful with the tricks of the driver of the village. If you want to go up the village is recommended to try to go up inside Intramuros.
3. Taxi
Differentiate taxis yellow and white, because of the different prices on the meter. Cheaper white taxis, only during rush hour is it difficult to intercept taxis.
4. LRT
The distance from the LRT to tourist attractions is still quite far, of course, it makes it difficult for traveler friends who carry small children.
What are you waiting for? With all this knowledge about the beautiful Philippines, quickly book your flight ticket at Airpaz.com and enjoy many offers!
