The Philippines, an archipelago of over 7,000 islands, is home to some of the world's most captivating landscapes. With emerald rice terraces, turquoise lagoons, and towering volcanoes, the country stands as a paradise for travelers in search of raw, untouched beauty. This guide explores the natural tourist attractions Philippines is best known for—destinations that continue to mesmerize global wanderers and should be on every adventurer’s bucket list.
1. Palawan: The Last Frontier
El Nido and Bacuit Archipelago
Renowned for its dramatic limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters, El Nido offers boat tours that take you through secret lagoons, hidden beaches, and marine sanctuaries. The Bacuit Archipelago is a cluster of awe-inspiring islands perfect for kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
Puerto Princesa Underground River
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this subterranean river winds through a cave system before flowing directly into the sea. Visitors can take guided paddle boat tours to witness its stalactite and stalagmite formations.
2. Banaue Rice Terraces: A Living Cultural Landscape
Dubbed the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” the Banaue Rice Terraces are carved into the mountains by the Ifugao people over 2,000 years ago. These emerald stairways continue to be used today and are a testament to sustainable agriculture and indigenous ingenuity.
Best Time to Visit: June to July, when the terraces are lush and green.
3. Chocolate Hills of Bohol
Located in the Visayas region, the Chocolate Hills consist of over 1,200 symmetrical mounds spread over 50 square kilometers. During the dry season, their green grass turns brown, hence the name.
Nearby Attractions:
- Tarsier Sanctuary – Home to the world’s smallest primates.
- Loboc River Cruise – A serene lunch cruise with cultural entertainment.
4. Mount Mayon: Perfect Cone Volcano
Rising over 2,400 meters, Mount Mayon is considered the most symmetrical volcano in the world. Situated in Albay, Bicol, it’s a thrilling site for photography, hiking, and ATV adventures along its lava trails.
Safety Note: Always check volcanic activity alerts before planning your visit.
5. Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park
A diver’s paradise, this UNESCO-listed marine park lies in the middle of the Sulu Sea. It is one of the top dive sites globally, home to over 600 species of fish and 300 species of coral.
Best Time to Dive: Mid-March to mid-June, during calm sea conditions.
6. Hinatuan Enchanted River
Hidden in the jungles of Surigao del Sur, the Enchanted River is famed for its mystical sapphire waters and unknown depths. Local folklore speaks of spirits protecting this surreal freshwater spring, making it a spiritual and scenic wonder.
Tip: Visit before noon to catch the daily fish feeding ceremony.
7. Siargao: Surfing and Beyond
While best known for Cloud 9, a world-famous surf break, Siargao also features lush mangroves, rock pools, and secret lagoons.
Top Natural Spots in Siargao:
- Sugba Lagoon
- Magpupungko Rock Pools
- Sohoton Cove (via nearby Bucas Grande)
8. Lake Sebu: Cultural and Natural Harmony
Nestled in South Cotabato, Lake Sebu offers not just scenic lake views, but also cultural immersion with the T'boli tribe.
Attractions:
- Seven Waterfalls Zipline
- Traditional Weaving Centers
- Lotus-covered Lake Views
9. Mount Pulag: Sea of Clouds
As Luzon’s third-highest peak, Mount Pulag is popular for its surreal “sea of clouds” seen from its summit during sunrise. Trekkers pass through mossy forests, dwarf bamboo grasslands, and diverse flora along the way.
Permit Required: Secure your hiking permit early as slots are limited.
10. Camiguin Island: The Island Born of Fire
Despite its size, Camiguin has more volcanoes per square kilometer than any island in the world. Visitors can explore:
- White Island Sandbar
- Sunken Cemetery
- Mt. Hibok-Hibok Hot Springs
Eco-Friendly Travel Tips
- Respect local wildlife and habitats.
- Avoid single-use plastics.
- Support local communities through guided eco-tours and handmade crafts.
Planning Your Trip: Flights from the UK
Traveling to the Philippines from the United Kingdom is easier than ever. With increasing connectivity, it's now possible to find low cost flights UK to Manila, Cebu, or Clark via major airlines such as Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Singapore Airlines.
Tips for Affordable Booking:
- Use fare comparison tools like Skyscanner and Google Flights.
- Travel during shoulder seasons (May-June or September-November).
- Book at least 2-3 months in advance.
Final Thoughts
The natural tourist attractions Philippines offers are among the most spectacular in the world. Whether you're hiking through ancient rice terraces, diving into coral-rich seas, or gazing at volcanic peaks, every corner of the country promises adventure and serenity. Embrace the wild beauty, plan your escape, and secure low cost flights UK to begin your unforgettable journey through the natural gems of the Philippines
Comments