Tourism is a major contributor in this archipelagic country, composed of more than 7,000 islands. Not only it is very rich in historical and cultural heritage, but it also has a striking biodiversity, which is the main attraction for the millions of tourists coming from all over the world each year. Let’s take a closer look at these marvelous gems Philippines has to offer to our eyes!
1. Banaue Rice Terraces
Carved into the mountains of Ifugao, these 2000-years-old terraces are regarded as the "eighth wonder of the world" by the locals. They’re irrigated by an ancient system built by the ancestors of the indigenous people. Tourism flourishes at the base of these man-made creations, the activities you can get involved in ranging from the simple sight-seeing to a visit to the local tribes, occasion in which a Mumbaki (a traditional Ifugao doctor) may perform a spiritual healing ritual on you.
Panoramic view of the Banaue Rice Terraces
2. Boracay
The white sugary and powdery beaches of Boracay are one of the world’s most famous destinations for a relaxing vacation. The glassy-smooth waters offer ideal conditions for ideal for windsurfing and kiteboarding or kitesurfing. A wide range of restaurants, pubs, nightclubs are also there waiting for your arrival, not to mention the fact that a golf course is also available.
A view at dusk of Willy's Rock at Boracay Beach
Parasailing in Boracay
Sunset in Boracay
White Beach in Boracay
3. Chocolate Hills
Let Bohol Province surprise you with its incredibly symmetrical hills. The landscape you’ll see here looks surreal! They’re featured on the local flag, as a symbol of abundance and are regarded as the country's third National Geological Monument. More than 1200 cone-shaped mounds generate this fascinating panorama, so popular among tourists. They take their name from the color their grass take during dry season.
4. Cebu
Cebu city is the oldest town in the Philippines and it is surrounded by 167 islands of white-sand heavens. The past kingdom of the defunct Rajahnate of Cebu also acted as home for Spaniard colonies, not to mention it served as a Japanese base during World War II. Luxury resorts, beautiful diving spots and the heritage sites make of this location a top-notch destination for sophisticated minds.
Cebu International Convention Center
Cebu Taoist Temple, Beverly Hills Subdivision, Cebu City, Philippines
Gibitngil Medellin Cebu
Plantation Bay Resort and Spa, Cebu, Philippines
Rock Resort Camotes Island, Cebu Philippines
Sinulog Princess during the Sinulog Festival Cebu, Philippines
5. Manila
The capital of the country and definitely a global city, containing many kinds of facilities, from scientific research bases to sport camps, historical and cultural institutions and numerous entertainment options for all tastes. Museum tours, the Feast of Black Nazarene and the live performances in Rizal Park are just a few of the reasons tourists like it so much in here.
Hanging Bridge - Rizal Park
Luljetta's Hanging gardens and spa, Philippines
Manila Bay Sunset, Philippines
Manila Philippines
Rizal Monument at Rizal Park in Manila, Philippines
Rizal Park Manila Philippines
6. Malapascua Island
We just couldn’t exclude this magnificent island from the Top 10 famous destinations in Philippines! The amazing coral gardens and the renowned diving spots, such as Monad Shoal, make of this location an excellent place for those looking for some tranquility and a spectacle for their eyes. Its name was given by the Spaniards who were obliged to camp on the island because of bad weather, on December 25th 1520.
Bounty Beach, Malapascua Island
Bounty Beach, Malapascua Island
Malapascua Island Philippines
Sunset on Bounty Beach
7. Mayon Volcano
Another symmetrical natural beauty of the Philippines, Mount Mayon is an active volcano located in the province of Albay, on the island of Luzon. The mountain is named after the legendary heroine DaragangMagayon, which would translate to “Beautiful Lady”.
8.Tubbataha Reef
This is a marine wildlife sanctuary located in the middle of Sulu Sea, covering an area of 97,030 hectares. The islets in the area serve as a nesting place for both birds and sea turtles. In 1993 it has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Having national value, the reef was also featured in the 2010 series of the Philippine one thousand peso bill.
9. Puerto Princesa Underground River
This natural wonder is something really unique, offering a spectacle like anywhere else. It is the longest underground river on Earth, also featuring waterfalls inside the cave. The Cabayugan River winds through St. Pauls Underground River Cave for more than 8 kilometers, to then flow into the West Philippine Sea. A habitat of biodiversity conservation, decorated by fascinating stalactites and stalagmites. A must-see!
10. Vigan
Facing the South China Sea, this World Heritage Site represents an intact Hispanic town, one of the few remaining in Philippines. Its colonial cobblestone streets are internationally renowned, as well as its vibrant festivals and art fairs. Ancestral houses and cathedrals will make you experience the elegant fragrances of the Spanish Era, while the unique oriental buildings will remind you of the multiculturalism of the place.