Philippines Things To Do

These centuries-old terraces are the Philippines’ most stunning visual treat. The most famous examples are at Banaue and Batad, but adventurous travelers will find spectacular specimens lurking throughout the Cordillera Mountains.

The highlight of Palawan, the Philippines’ crown jewel, is this surreal seascape, where you can kayak amid sea turtles and brooding limestone cliffs jutting hundreds of feet into the air.

Dozens of butanding (whale sharks) gather in the waters off Donsol every year from February to June. Don flippers, mask, and snorkel and get up close and personal with these gentle beasts.

Two of the Philippines’ iconic tourist attractions – the Chocolate Hills and the fist-sized, monkey-like tarsiers – are within spitting distance of Nuts Huts, a backpacker oasis in the rainforest of central Bohol.

Steady northeasterly winds and shallow tropical waters make Boracay the ultimate kite-surfing destination. A 14-hour certification course at Hangin costs a fraction of the price of lessons in the US.

Enjoy an all-day spa treatment and feast on delectable vegan food at The Farm at San Benito, the Philippines’ most exclusive wellness center, located in the jungle south of Manila.

Make the eerie descent to the sunken Japanese ships of Coron Bay, off Busuanga Isaland. Stay at Sangat Island Reserve to be closest to the wrecks.

Join Carlos Celdran and his boom-box for a flamboyant city tour. Get intimate with bustling Chinatown, explore the walled district of Intramuros, or howl your way through Carlos’ Living La Vida Imelda tour, which explores the former first lady’s psyche and visits some of her favorite haunts.

Great rates, superb year-round conditions, and close proximity to Manila (not to mention a mischievous nightlife scene) make Puerto Galera the ultimate place to obtain beginner or advanced dive certifications. El Galleon has attractive diving/lodging packages.

Learn jungle survival skills from indigenous Aeta tribesmen in the midst of the densely forested Bataan Peninsula. The Jungle Environment Survival Training Camp runs half-day and overnight trips and can tailor longer journeys.