This website includes 82 Provinces of the Philippines. Travel and Hiking Guides, Top Tourist Spots, DIY Itineraries, Backpacking, Hotels, and Resorts.
Another famous mountain in Rodriguez, Rizal is Mt. Binacayan, a small but tiring to hike because of its terrain. Though, separated by Wawa River from Mt. Pamitinan, they almost have the same features in terms of the difficulty and trails types. There are fruit bearing trees, shrubs that bloom like ornaments, and the lullabies from birds can be heard. You will be certified as a "revel in trekking" because of the rock climbing and scrambling on the boulders and limestone cliffs with sharp edges.
Mt. Marami is one of the hiking destinations in Southern Luzon because of its proximity from Manila. Not only that, it is also one of the most visited mountains in the province because of its simple and gradual trails. Walking on its terrain can give you relaxation because everything is surrounded by green while the mountain slopes from afar are picture-perfect. You can't stop yourself from a death-defying pose on the rock formation called "silyang bato." Fruit-bearing trees, coconuts, bananas and other crops can give you a farmville feeling while the birds are singing their lullabies.
Though, no trees are dancing and birds singing, the nude shape of Mt. Talamitam makes it one of the hiking destinations in the Province of Batangas. Considered as a friendly mountain for beginners, this Talamitam can still bring a remarkable hiking experience to those seasoned in this field because of its soil type which is slippery and muddy during the wet season and hot during summer. As you can see on the photo above, this mountain is covered with green which brings a relaxing aura to the eyes.
Mt. Pico de Loro is also known as Mt. Palay-palay located in Ternate, Cavite. Its name was given by the Spanish sea-fairer because it looks like a ‘parrot’s beak’ from afar. This mountain has a combination of beauty and trekking adventure. It has a lot to offer in terms of natural beauty and richness. Birds are singing, colorful flowering plants on the ground, orchids hanging on the branches, bananas, and fruit-bearing trees like coconuts and mangoes. Reaching the top of the Monolith or the Parrot's Beak is a must-have because it will measure your fear and agility.
Until now, Mt. Damas, the pride of Tarlac, is in debate if it’s really a minor or a major hike. Others would say it’s minor because of its elevation but others would say its major because of its trail type and technicalities. During our ascent, they are both correct, the entire journey was composed of an uphill and downhill trek with river crossing. That doesn't end there, since it was the wet season, the muddy and slippery terrains made our journey remarkable. By the way, this mountain is the home of the eatas who protect the forest from illegal activities.
Mt. Daraitan, Tanay - when we saw the gorgeous photos of this mountain, we thought it's a perfect place to relax and re-energise with the positivity that nature possesses. Hiking this mountain and crossing the Tinipak River can definitely give you a unique experience because the place is surrounded with relaxing greens and the sound of the rushing water by the river preserves tranquility. Aside from this mountain, the province of Rizal has a lot to offer, from arts, crafts, food, rivers and mountains.
I'll place Mt. Maculot as the second must climbed mountain in Batangas because of different factors. Can also be one of the best options for day hikes because of its minor trail type and terrains that are covered with trees and surrounded by grass and shrubs, the air is the fresh, cool ambience and a perfect location for a stunning shot with the world famous and most active Taal Volcano on the background. In addition, the Rockies are the best and most famous part of this mountain.
Mt. Hapunang Banoi is situated beside Mt. Pamitinan and separated by Wawa Dam from Mt. Binacayan. This mountain is now famous to the mountaineering world because it is surrounded by luscious green trees, making the area looks so relaxing and the wind is cool, clean and fresh. Plus, the exhilarating terrains added an adventure to hikers; a perfect place to relax and Instagram worthy.
Mt. Cristobal is one of the famous mountains in Luzon because of the the countless stories, rumors and legends about "ghost" and other extra terrestrial events. As a result, the title "devil's mountain" was given to this pride of Quezon. Aside from those, Cristobal also hides an amazing terrains, surrounded with a dense forest areas. There are mosses, ferns and orchids hanging on the branches, a proof that this wildlife sanctuary is still preserved. Also, the ambiance and weather is cool because its stands 1,470 MASL.
Mt. Guiting-guiting in Sibuyan, Romblon is famous in the world of mountaineering because of its majestic beauty and is listed as one of the most difficult mountains to climb in the Philippines. Garnered a nine over nine rating in terms of difficulty, this mountain hides an unspoiled beauty and vast diversity of flora and fauna on the summit. Plus, trekking this forested mountain slopes can provide a great hiking experience. Also, G2, another name given to the mountain, is just one of the must visit spots in Romblon aside from the marble products, the province also has a lot of gorgeous and breathtaking beaches and dive sites awaiting to be discovered.
Traversing Mt. Ugo is a bit long because it is one of the giants in Luzon. Our traverse was a two-day hiking itinerary from Brgy. Kayapa, Nueva Vizacaya to Itogon, Benguet. The terrain has a relaxing and cool ambiance, surrounded by stunning greens. This mountain bears colorful ornaments spread on the trails and hanging on the trees. Of course, birds are singing their lullabies, definitely one of the must-visit attractions and destinations in Benguet.
I've been hearing from friends that Mt. Timbak and Mt. Tabayoc are just two of the must hiked mountains in the Cordilleras. In terms of altitude, this mountain stands 2,717 MASL and garnered an easy trail class - which I think is true. Among the provinces in CAR, Benguet is really a bomb and prominent to tourist, especially hikers, because of its rich forested mountain slopes, hike on relaxing ambiance and a beauty that can only be found in nature, plus a glimpse of the local livelihood.
For me, the Province of Tawi-Tawi is the hardest province to penetrate because of its geographical location. Not only that, it is always associated with "war" and most of the time, being judged and considered as "unsafe" for travelers, which I disagree! Bongao is the busiest municipality in the province but has a lot of stunning tourist spots and destinations that are just waiting to be recognized.
Traveling to Isabela City, Basilan is less than two hours from the port of Zamboanga City. Is it safe in Basilan? It's a YES! There are news about ASG and terrorist acts happening in the province, but it doesn't mean that it's not safe. There are two cities in Basilan, Lamitan (the capital) and Isabela (part of Region 9), that serve as the center. Like the other cities, huge business establishments, transportation and people are present in every corner. From the port of Isabela City, while holding my mobile phone and using Google Map, I walked on the streets to the different tourist spots, attractions and destinations in the city. Did this alone and it's safe.
This branch of the National Museum houses a collection of relics discovered in the region. There are ceramics, earthenware, locally woven fabrics, paintings, books, jars, skeletons, and many more. Each of the items is enclosed in glass cabinets while the others are on the walls.
Upon arrival at Island Jardin del Mar, I easily heard the relaxing rushing waves hitting the shoreline. After paying the entrance fee, with excitement, I headed to the side where the sound came from and found a stretch of fine white sand and playful crystal clear water. Not only that, the emerald seas, the coconuts, and the trees by the beach serve as a perfect backdrop. By the way, the wind is cool and fresh and the area has a relaxing ambiance - perfect for family outing and weekend getaway.
After my historical tour in Dipolog and Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte, I traveled to Ozamis City in Misamis Occidental (Region 10). Its capital is Oroqueta City but I chose Ozamis because I want to see and touch Fort sa Cotta and the Ozamis Cathedral. On the way, I noticed the wide farmlands but when I arrived in the center, this city is the same with the other cities, business establishments are in every corner, transportation is continuous and the streets are undeniably busy. From the Ozamis Integrated Terminal, I rode in a tricycle to the different tourist spots, attractions and destinations.
It's the first tourist spot in Camiguin we visited; by the way, we started from the farthest. It's a 250-meter waterfall with cool and clear water free-flowing to a river system. The atmosphere in the area is cool because it is surrounded by trees that give fresh and clean air. The water is cool but relaxing because of the pressure, perfect for your tired muscles. Entrance fees are being collected. Souvenir shops are available by the entrance.
After Ozamis City, Misamis Occidental, I traveled to Pagadian City, province of Zamboanga del Sur - the last province on my list. It was a three-and-a-half-hour land travel with a huge picture of how the people of the Zamboanga peninsula lives. At the integrated terminal, I rode on a motorcycle to the center of the city passing by the famous rotunda. I was wearing a sando, thus, I easily felt the fresh and cool wind while we were on a descending road with a clear view of the stunning sunset.
It was a long travel from Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay to Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte. My primary destination in this province is Jose Rizal Shrine in Dapitan City - the place where Dr. Jose P. Rizal, the Philippine National Hero, spent his few years when he was exiled but still made this life fruitful by working as a doctor, sculptor, farmer, teacher and participating other activities. Not only that, heritage houses are just some of the tourist spots and destinations in Dapitan City.
The top tourist spot and destination in Southern Leyte is Maasin Cathedral, a catholic place of worship in Maasin City. It was originally built in 1700 by the Jesuit priests; however, it was severely damaged because of the Moro’s rebels. The bricks and the mosses on the façade give an older and a unique look which is perfect for the modern selfies. This cathedral is definitely one of historical pillars in the province. Since it is situated in front of the plaza and a few meters away from the City hall, it is one of the busiest area in city.
The San Juanico Bridge is the most visited tourist spot in Samar and Leyte. A few years ago, the province captured the attention of the world because of the devastation brought by Typhoon Yolanda. But, did you know that Samar also hides something in their mountainous and forested areas? These are breathtaking and definitely a splendor of nature’s beauty that needs to be discovered. Historical landmarks, waterfalls, and caves are just a few of Samar island's must-visit tourist spots and destinations.
The McArthur Landing Memorial Park in Palo, Leyte is one of the most visited landmarks in the province or even in the Philippines; this is to commemorate the historical landing of General Douglas MacArthur. The actual landing in October of 1944 was the start of the liberation of the Philippines from the Japanese occupation – the Second World War. The statues were created by Anastacio Caedo The significance of this park can be read on the historical markers placed in front of the park.
Biliran has a lot of stunning tourist spots and destinations to offer. Ulan-Ulan Falls and Tinago Falls are two of the famous and majestic waterfalls hiding in the mountains of the province. Naval, its capital, is now highly urbanized making it easy for travelers to discover and experience what they have. Since it has a lot of mountainous areas, the magnificence of nature is still waiting to be discovered. Not only that, they also have stunning beaches, great products, and friendly people.
Miag-ao Church or the Church of Sto. Tomas de Villanueva is an old baroque church in Miag-ao, Ilo-Ilo. It is one of the world-famous baroque churches in the Philippines and it became one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The construction of this church began in 1787 while Fray Francisco M. Gonzales. O.S.A. was the parish priest of Miag-ao and Domingo Libo-on was the Gobernadorcillo. The Church was completed in 1797 and it served as the fortress against the Muslim Raiders. In 1898, during the revolution, this church was destroyed but then it was rebuilt.
When we talk about mangoes, Guimaras will definitely be brought up on the topic because it is said that they have the “Sweetest Mango in the Philippines.” In relation to that, their local delicacies, with mango, are just mouth-watering. The residents must be proud of their breathtaking and stunning beaches, historical sites and other activities. They also have Manggahan Festival, an annual festivity to thank their bountiful mango harvest. It is a small island province that can be visited for the whole day but they can offer a lot to visitors.
Roxas City is the capital of Capiz Province – the “Seafood Capital of the Philippines” situated in Western Visayas. If you are in Panay Island, it is highly recommend visiting Roxas City to witness and experience the heritage sites in the modern generation. The province has the most controversial and awaited annual festivity in the Philippines – the “Aswang Festival.” Politically, the city is prominent because it is the hometown of the late Philippine President Manuel A. Roxas. To complete my Western Visayas list, I listed the “9 Must Visit Tourist Destinations.”
Apo Whang Od is an indigenous tattoo artist from Kalinga province who uses an old style of tattooing called "Batok," or traditional hand-tapped tattooing. She became prominent because she has been featured on some local TV shows, international documentaries, magazines and others. Photos below will show the beauty of Buscalan, Kalinga and their traditional "batok."
Social media sites and travel blogs helped Kaparkan Falls to be one of the top destinations in the North. It is situated in the Municipality of Tineg, Province of Abra, part of the Cordillera Administrative Region. Traveling from Manila to Bangued, the capital of Abra, is more than 8 hours. Plus, another 2 -3 hours off-road to Sitio Kaparkan - the jump-off of Kaparkan Falls. As I always say: "time is just a number" but the reward will be a breathtaking and a stunning body of water - the majestic Kaparkan Falls! CLICK TO WATCH MY KAPARKAN FALLS VLOG
We finally arrived at the Pink Beach in Sorsogon. Day 2: Backpacking in Albay, Sorsogon and Catanduanes. There is no direct route from Legaspi City to Matnog. So, from Daraga Shell gas station, we rode in a bus with “Bulan” signboard and alighted in Trece. The travel time was about 3-4 hours, passing by Sorsogon City and the nearby municipalities. In Trece, we chartered a tricycle, alighted in front of the municipal hall and met Christian, our boatman.
The provinces of Albay, Sorsogon and Catanduanes are part of my solo-backpacking list, however, the reality started when I planned my Bicol itinerary two months ago - to complete Region 5. Legaspi City in Albay is the center of the Bicol region that showcases a lot of tourist spots and destinations; from historical sites, beaches, gorgeous landscapes, and to the remarkable activities and sumptuous delicacies. Here are the top tourist spots and destinations in Albay.
Palawan is gifted with top tourist spots, must-visit tourist attractions, amazing tourist destinations, mouth water delicacies and great people. The province is the longest and one of the biggest provinces in the Philippines in terms of land area and this land area has a combination of white beaches with calm crystal clear water, gorgeous islands (Palawan is the best island in the world), world-class dive sites, caves, mountains and many more.
Mindoro Island is divided into two provinces, Oriental and Occidental. Its main products are mostly agricultural but they also have beautiful and stunning tourist destinations that they can be proud of. From the historical sites to the beautiful white beaches, underwater richness, rain-forest from the mountains, and the people. I have tried solo backpacking to Mindoro several times and I can say that the people here are one of the most hospitable and friendly in the country. Here are some of the top tourist spots and destinations in Oriental Mindoro.
Dampalitan is one of the top destinations in Quezon Province. This stunning island (photo above) is located in Padre Burgos, an hour travel from Lucena City. It became famous to travellers because it has an untouched beauty. The island has fine white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, a gorgeous landscape, the atmosphere is cool, and has no huge concrete structures just camping by the beach. READ: DAMPALITAN ISLAND
Hiking the mountains of Laguna and chasing the waterfalls is a good option. Hiking to Romelo's campsite and the Buruwisan Falls is always challenging because the trail is usually covered with mud. After all, it is being used by the locals, with their horses and carabaos, to transport goods to the low-lying areas. The trail is covered with hardwood trees, coconuts, and fruit-bearing trees that create a cool ambiance. The water on the river and waterfalls is crystal clear and totally refreshing. If you're looking for extreme, some organizers set up ropes for wall climbing and canyoneering. READ: MOUNT ROMELO
The top tourist spots in Batangas are easy to visit, so if you're looking for gorgeous places to relax near Metro Manila, I've listed them for you. The province has a collection amazing landscape by the beach, paradise in the middle and top of the mountains, colorful bio diversity underwater, historical sites, and many more. First on the list, Manuel Uy Beach Resort which is one of the must-visit place in the Calatagan, a 3-4 hours road travel from Manila. Travel time might be tiring but the journey can be unforgettable.
The long stretch of shoreline facing the West Philippine Sea, has fine white sand, crystal clear waters, the ambiance is absolutely refreshing and more to offer. Having said that, Zambales is considered top tourist destination in the region. Magalawa Island (photo above) has fine white sand, like Boracay, and is surrounded by crystal clear waters. The horizon and the sunset are amazingly remarkable. It is really hard to explain but photos will describe it for you. READ: MAGALAWA ISLAND
The province of Tarlac is situated in Central Luzon, surrounded by the provinces of Zambales, Pangasinan, and Nueva Ecija; a 2 to 3 hours travel from Metro Manila. It is also one of the provinces that hold a huge part in Philippine history. When I visited part of this province, the wide rice fields and mountainous areas were very noticeable. The entire area, even the city, is surrounded by the relaxing green colors. The photo above is the St. Michael The Archangel Parish Church or the Camiling Parish Church.
Historically speaking, Bataan is one of the provinces that has a huge contribution to Philippine history, politics, or top tourist destinations. This beautiful province belongs to Region 3 known as Central Luzon. It is separated by Manila de Bay from NCR and the province of Cavite. During my visit to the province, I noticed that the people are accommodating and are living in a simple way.
Cagayan Valley has one of the top natural attractions in Luzon and it is Palaui, one of the virgin Islands situated in the municipality of Sta. Ana. It became prominent because it was the location where the two seasons of Survivor, a hit US TV reality show, were held. It is small but, has a lot to offer, such as the historical Cape Engaño Lighthouse, the artistic rock formation of Dos Hermanas, the fine white sand of Mabolbol Shore and the flora and fauna along Siwangag and Lagunzad trails. Of course, the serenity and the breathtaking beauty are well preserved - fewer visitors due to its topographical location.
It is definitely one of the top tourist destinations in Ilocos Norte. Situated at the Northern tip Luzon, Pagudpud is one of top tourist attractions and destinations in the province. It also claims the title: "Boracay of the North" - that's according to the tourists and travellers who experienced its beauty. This paradise has a similarity with Boracay, from the white sand shoreline to the crystal clear waters of the Blue Lagoon, to the relaxing and cool sea breeze, to the golden sunset, up to the remarkable activities during the day and parties in the evening.
The province of Zambales faces the West Philippine Sea so, it is well known for its gorgeous fine white sand and crystalline waters. Silanguin Cove is at the top of the list because it has a beautiful coastline highlighted by the amazing slopes of the mountains in the background. Other prominent beaches are Crystal Beach, Anawangin Cove, Talisayin Cove and Nagsasa Cove. Who doesn't know about the Scarborough Shoal, it is just a few kilometers from here.
We traversed Mt. Pundaquit to Anawangin Cove during a super hot summer vacation - it was my first time seeing this beauty. And after half a decade, I finally made a comeback and witnessed the other side. Among the coves in Zambales, this stunning beach is the most prominent and most visited place making this gorgeous spot a tent city during summer. This time, we camped at the right spot!
Liwliwa, Zambales - our group, Batang Hamog Mountaineers, has been participating the annual celebration of the Philippine Independence by creating an activity focusing about #Kalayaan, #Kasarinlan, #Freedom, or #Independence. This year's event was Freedom Surf 2018 held at Home Break Hostel, one of the simple resorts in Liwliwa, Zambales. If you're unfamiliar with this spot, it's normal because prominent surfing spots usually are Siargao, Baler, La Union and many others. Now Liwliwa, in Zambales, is the newest addition to the list.
Bega Falls is the newest tourist destinations in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur. Its name is derived from a local word "Bega" which literally translates to "flirt" in English. According to the local folk story, the area is the home of the mystical women. One that is sure, Bega falls is picture perfect because of its a majestic landscape. From the crystal clear waters free flowing from the towering limestone cliffs carpeted with ferns and mosses. The strong water pressure created a natural pool at the base that serves as a swimming pool.