10 bucket list activities to tick off on your first trip to beautiful Philippines
The Philippines, also known as the traveler's paradise, is a must visit in Southeast Asia.
Feeling the sand on your feet already? Think no further, below are our recommended suggestions to explore in Cebu, Bohol and Palawan. First things first, book your flights to the Philippines with our flight deals!
1. Cebu- The Gateway to a Thousand Journeys
If you are new to the Philippines, one of the cities that we will highly recommend to visit would definitely be Cebu. It is said to have bloomed into a popular tourist destination. Hit upon our suggested places to go to explore the sandy beaches and crystal clear waters, perfect for divers.
- Osmena Peak
Osmena Peak is one of the highest points in the island of Cebu. You can reach there by motorcycle, known popularly known as Habal Habal by the locals. It takes around 30 minutes' hike to get to the top. You will not be disappointed by the stunning and breathtaking view Osmena Peak has to offer.
- Kawasan Falls
Kawasan Fall, the most beautiful scenic waterfall to take a swim in, especially after a long day in the sun. The amazing crystal blue color will invite you to a jump into the chilling water. We recently sent a social influencer, Saffron Sharpe to the Philippines and she definitely had a whale of a time! Highly recommended to try is canyoneering to add on to your experience at Badian Canyon Adventure.
Check out Saffron Sharpe's Philippines adventure and be inspired!
2. Bohol
Bohol is around 2 hours' boat ride from Cebu city. Motorbiking is the easiest and the most exciting way to see these classic landmarks. You can also rent a car or get a local guide to drive you around.
- Chocolate Hill
Located in the center of the island, the Chocolate Hill is considered to be one of the wonders of nature. An interesting fact about this place is that the cone-shaped hills will turn green during the rainy season and brown (chocolate) during summer.
There is also a romantic story behind the hills, Arogo, a young and unusually strong giant, was in love with Aloya, an ordinary mortal. After she died, Arogo wept bitterly and the proof of his deep grief is the Chocolate Hills. They are his tears turned into hills. Don't forget to get your cameras ready to snap some gorgeous pictures on the viewing deck!
- Bohol Tarsier Conservation Area- See a Tarsier
The Tarsier, known as Bohol's tourism mascot is one of the smallest primates in the world. A tarsier's eyes are bigger than its brain as an interesting fact!
You are requested not to use flash whilst taking pictures and to be silent. There are lots of small unlicensed businesses by the roadside trying to get tourists to see their caged Tarsier. Please avoid these operations and go and visit the Tarsier in the safe and protected grounds of the conservation area.
- Danao Adventure Park
Danao Adventure Park is a must see if you are in Bohol. It is relatively cheap and has loads of activities to pick up. One such example is zip line, where you are flying over the Loboc river lying face down. This offers a great bird's eye view of the park especially for those who seek adventure and thrill. This place is also known to be the most unique, natural and extreme adventure park in the Philippines.
Hinagdanan Cave
Hinagdanan Cave is about 6km from Tagbilaran city, surrounded by clean, fresh water gushing from the rocky sides. An eerie underworld of stalactites and stalagmites, it has a bathing pool beneath which is good for cliff diving and snorkeling.Dauis Church
One of Bohol's beautiful churches,Dauis Church which has retained its Spanish architecture although it has a semi-modern façade. The church interior has life-like murals painted on the ceiling. The patron saint, the Virgin of the Assumption, is believed to possess miraculous powers. It is the object of the faithful, who attend its annual festivities. Legend has it that when the town was invaded by pirates, the townfolks locked themselves inside the church until they ran out of water and provisions. Then suddenly a well appeared at the foot of the altar, from which people started drawing water. It is still the main source of water for the people living in the church vicinity. Surprisingly, the water is absolutely fresh although the well is located only a few meters from the sea.
3. Palawan- The Last Frontier
Palawan is proclaimed as one of the best islands to visit multiple times over the past decade. It boasts of stunning beaches, amazing lagoons and lots of corals, not to forget the memorable sunsets. Arriving from Manila or Cebu, you will end up in Puerto Princesa. It is the biggest city on the island and the gateway to beautiful beaches. Here are our mustn't-say-no places to visit!
- Puerto Princesa Underground River
This stunning piece of earth was declared as one of the seven wonders of nature in 2011. She stands true to her name in terms of her beauty and scenic views to offer. It takes half an hour by boat from the dock in Sabang to the Underground River. Puerto Princesa Underground River is a definite must-do on your list! - El Nido
Head to the north of the main island and you will find yourself in El Nido. In El Nido, Small Lagoon is deemed to be one of the best places to explore. Definitely a must do for your first time in the Philippines!
- Coron
Are you a diver? If so, then this place is for you, as it is a hot spot for divers from all over the world. One interesting fact of Coron is that it is mixed with clear transparent water plus salt of at least 20%.
Highly recommended to hike and be ready to snap Instagram worthy pictures from the hilltop view too!