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9 popular things to do in the Philippines

Located in Southeast Asia, the Philippines is an archipelago of over seven thousand five hundred picturesque islands. Collectively, this tropical paradise has an array of natural wonders to offer, ranging from pristine beaches and underground rivers to historical sights and active volcanoes.

With so many great attractions, you may find it difficult to decide just what the best things to do in the Philippines are. So, here is a list of popular bucket lists things as in one of our favourite countries in the world, along with a few tips such as booking a hotel in the Philippines to help you preplan.

Chill Out In Boracay

The island of Boracay is famous around the world for its beautiful white sandy beaches. It is the ideal spot for you in the Philippines to chill out for a day. The 4km stretch of the vibrant beach is surrounded by many restaurants, hotels, and diving shops. If you are in the mood for a beach party, then you are in luck. Most evening in Boracay ends with a party filled with fire shows and live music. It is the most entertaining way to finish a day in the Philippines.

Being one of the cheapest countries in the world, island life doesn’t cost you a bomb.

Go kayaking on the Panagsama Beach

Nothing is more soothing than spending the evening kayaking on the Panagsama beach in Moalboal. It is a fun-filled activity for both experts and first-timers. Snorkeling, scuba diving, and dolphin and whale watching are some of the other activities you can try out at the Panagsama beach. You can also stop by for Shrimp Coconut Soup at Coconut Restobar. It is an authentic experience.

Walk across the bamboo hanging bridge

One of the most breathtaking things that you can do in the Philippines is the slow walk across the sturdy yet delicate hanging bamboo bridges. It offers a stunning view of the emerald Sipatan River flowing underneath it. Be mindful and watch your steps when you are crossing the bridge.

Visit the active Mayon Volcano

Also known as Mount Mayon, the active Mayon Volcano is located on the island of Luzon. Recently, the volcano got a new nickname- ‘the perfect cone’, because of its geometrically symmetrical cone shape. Much like Mount Fuji in Japan. Mayon has a long history of eruptions and one such major episode took place in 1814, claiming the lives of more than 1200 people. Even today, the ash and mud rains from the frequent eruptions have led to the recurring evacuations of people from nearby villages.

Visit Manila Ocean Park

Manila Ocean Park offers a fun-packed day for the whole family. With more than 8,000 square meters of space waiting to be explored, there are many attractions like the 25-meter acrylic tunnel through which you can see marine life from different angles. There is also a penguin exhibit and a long slide that can be ridden using sleighs.

See the Banaue rice terraces

How beautiful are the Banaue rice terraces?!  Well, there are many people who think that it should be considered the ‘eighth wonder of the world’. Visit this wonderfully picturesque spot and you will understand the sheer magnificence of this place for real. The terraces are about 2000 years old and were carved into the mountains of Lfugao using some minimal tools. It is naturally irrigated by the surrounding rainforest and is still used by the locals for cultivating their vegetables and rice.

Explore the Puerto Princesa national park

This will surely be a national park that you have never seen before. Declared as one of the Seven Wonders of Nature, Puerto Princesa subterranean river, near Sabang Beach, will take you to a wonderland that you have never seen before. You can ride a paddle boat to explore the cave system, understand more about the rock formations and also see the hundreds of bats living in the cave. It is a unique experience to visit this national park and you really don’t want to miss it.

Visit the historical Fort Santiago

Located in Manila, Fort Santiago is a citadel popular with tourists not just because of the architecture, but also its backstory.  The fort was built by the Spanish as a defense fortress within the city. Jose Rizal, the Philippine national hero, was imprisoned here until his execution in 1896. The hero’s final steps before execution are still kept preserved as bronze footsteps inside the fort.

Relax in Rizal Park

Feeling tired from all the exploring? You can take a break and relax in Rizal Park in Manila. The 60-hectare park is named after the national hero Jose Rizal and has a monument honoring the hero. It is the ideal place to sit, relax, or just roam around freely. There is also a lagoon in the middle of the park.