10 amazing and unique destinations in the Philippines

The Philippines is blessed with an abundance of natural resources. With 7,641 islands, it’s no surprise that this country in Southeast Asia is a popular destination for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts from all over the world. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination or a tropical vacation that will allow you to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, then you should check out some of these unique places. You can’t go wrong with one of these ten unique destinations in the Philippines.

1. Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park in Palawan

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park in Palawan province is known for its stunning 8.2-kilometer-long underground river that runs through a massive cave system before emptying into the sea. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts a full ‘mountain-to-sea’ ecosystem and is home to some of Asia’s most important forests.

Take a boat ride through the underground river to see the various stalactites, stalagmites, and large chambers, or go swimming in the nearby waters.

You may even spot some of the unique wildlife that calls this park home, including bats, monkeys, and monitor lizards.

2. Chocolate Hills in Bohol

The Chocolate Hills are perhaps the most iconic natural landmark in the Philippines. These unique, cone-shaped hills are covered in grass that turns brown during the dry season, which is why they’re called Chocolate Hills.

An estimated 1,268 of these hills of varying sizes are spread across an area of 50 square kilometers. You can get a great view of this unique geological formation from the observation deck at the Chocolate Hills Complex.

3. Banaue Rice Terraces in Ifugao

Considered by many Filipinos as the eighth natural wonder of the world, the Banaue Rice Terraces are a sight to behold.

These terraces, built entirely by hand and carved into the mountainside over 2,000 years ago by the Ifugao people, are still in use today.

The best place to watch the rice terraces is from the Sunrise Viewpoint, where you can see the vast expanse of these breathtaking man-made structures.

You can also take a hike through the rice terraces and meet some of the friendly locals.

4. Taal Volcano and Taal Lake in Batangas

Taal Volcano and Taal Lake are among the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines. Taal Volcano is one of the world’s smallest volcanoes, but don’t let its size deceive you – this volcano is active and has erupted several times in recent history.

Taal Lake is one of the country’s most unique destinations in the Philippines because it is a lake within a volcano within a lake. This unique geology is the result of a previous eruption that left a crater, which then filled with water to form Lake Taal.

You can hike to the crater rim to get a stunning view of the lake or take a boat ride around the lake to get up close and personal with the volcano.

5. Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park in the Sulu Sea, Palawan

Home to an incredible diversity of marine life, Tubbataha Reef is one of the world’s most important marine protected areas. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located in the Sulu Sea and consists of two coral atolls and a smaller coral reef.

The best way to experience the Tubbataha Reef is by a liveaboard dive boat, as this will allow you to spend more time underwater and see more of the unique marine life that calls this place home.

6. Sagada in Mountain Province

Sagada is a unique destination because it is home to the hanging coffins of the Sagada people. These coffins are suspended from cliffs because of the belief that spirits of the dead had a greater chance of reaching a higher level in the afterlife if they were placed high up.

You can visit the Sagada village to learn more about their unique culture and see the hanging coffins up close. You can also hike to mountain peaks and watch the sunrise over a sea of clouds or explore the famous Sumaguing Cave.

7. Mount Pinatubo in Central Luzon

Mount Pinatubo is an active volcano that last erupted in 1991. This unique destination is now a popular spot for hiking and camping, as the views from the summit are breathtaking.

A trip to Mount Pinatubo is worth it because of the unique opportunity to see an active volcano up close. You can hike to the summit and see the incredible views of the crater and the surrounding landscape, or, if you’re feeling adventurous, camp and spend the night in designated camping areas of the trail.

8. Hundred Islands National Park in Pangasinan

Pangasinan’s Hundred Islands National Park is unique for being composed of 124 islands at low tide (and 123 at high tide) across an area of 16.76 square kilometers.

The most notable islands are Governor’s Island, Children’s Island, Quezon Island, and Marcos Island, which all have unique rock formations and beautiful beaches.

You can explore the islands by boat and see the rock formations up close or go kayaking, swimming, and snorkeling in the clear blue waters. You can also hike up Pilgrimage Island for a stunning view of the Hundred Islands.

9. Batanes Island

An island province located in the northernmost part of the Philippines, Batanes is known for its stone houses, verdant hills, and pristine beaches. Its capital, Basco, is home to the country’s smallest airport as well as the Ivatan Stone House Museum.

Hikers will enjoy Mt. Iraya, while those looking for a more relaxed vacation can go on a leisurely stroll along Valugan Bay or enjoy the view from Naidi Hills.

10. Vigan City in Ilocos Sur

An exceptionally well-preserved Spanish colonial town, Vigan is unique for its cobblestone streets and houses with the characteristic “calesa” or horse-drawn carriage.

A stroll down its Calle Crisologo will transport you back in time, while its many museums, such as the Syquia Mansion and the Crisologo Museum, offer insights into the city’s rich history.

The Philippines is a unique country with many amazing travel destinations to explore. Its diverse landscape, untouched beaches, and rich culture make the Philippines a traveler’s paradise. From unique natural wonders to well-preserved Spanish colonial towns, there is something for everyone in the Philippines.