The Philippines – an archipelagic country, which is located in the Western Pacific Ocean in Southeast Asia, strikes visitors with true wilderness, beautiful beaches and amusing outdoor activities. Due to its morphology – the Philippines consist of more than 7000 islands -, it is suggested to plan meticulously your trip and figure out which part of the country is best visiting. Generally, visitors decide to focus their holiday on one of the three main regions of the country – Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao –, thus planning accordingly their trip. Yet, there are some destinations, such as the Chocolate Hills and the Hanging Coffins, that are quite remote, but are an absolute must. Travellers should definitely not miss them out!!
True, it is extremely difficult to organise the perfect trip to the Philippines. Fortunately, we got you covered! For further information about backpacking in the Philippines, as well as prices, visas and vaccinations, visit the German website Backpackertrail.
Best time to visit the Philippines
The best period to travel to the Philippines of course depends on your plans and on your budget. Indeed, although the country represents a budget-friendly destination, prices can be higher during the dry season (December-April). Yet, numerous important travel guides agree that the best period to visit the country ranges in fact between December and February, when temperatures are extremely pleasant (24°C-31°C) and all parts of the country – even the most remote ones – are fully accessible. Some people suggest traveling to the Philippines also during the wet season (May-October), since travellers will still enjoy warm temperatures, numerous sunny days and few visitors. Yet, keep in mind that this is the wet season … rainfalls are to be expected after all!!
Best spots in the Philippines
Manila
Capital city of the country, not only is Manila a vibrant metropolis, but it also delights visitors with its fascinating past. The former Spanish colony in fact boasts numerous important centuries-old historical attractions, which mainly located in the old district, the Intramuros (or Walled City), include San Agustin Church, Rizal Park and Fort Santiago.
White Beach, Boracay
Boracay Island, considered by many the beach capital of the country, is a tiny island in the west Visayas region. The island counts approximately 15 gorgeous beaches, yet, the most popular (and more beautiful) is White Beach, which located on the western part of theisland, offers visitors an unforgettable experience: chairs and hammocks under palm trees, snorkelling and scuba diving, as well as boat excursions and other water sports.
Banaue Rice Terraces, Ifugao
Carved by the Ifugao tribes more than 2000 years ago, these rice terraces are still used by the local population, who plant rice and different vegetables every day. The Batad Rice Terraces and the Bangaan Rice Terraces are also UNESCO World Heritage sites. A trip to the Philippines would not be the same without visiting these majestic rice terraces!
Chocolate Hills, Bohol
Located on the Island of Bohol, the Chocolate Hills represents a unique natural phenomenon that can only be admired here. The UNESCO World Heritage Site, which includes more than 1200 small mountains that emerged over the centuries, turns to a chocolate-brown colour during the dry season, creating an extremely suggestive atmosphere.
Mayon Volcano, Albay
With an elevation of approximately 2400 metres above the sea level, the Mayon Volcano is an active stratovolcano located on Luzon Island. Although most visitors want to admire the volcano from the ground, it is also suggested to walk on its slopes using one of the numerous hike trails. Expert hikers can also apply for a permit, which allows you to climb up the volcano. This is extremely dangerous and caution is absolutely required!!
Hanging Coffins, Sagada
Located on the Cordillera Mountains, one of the most remote areas of the country, the Hanging Coffins will definitely be an unforgettable adventure! Here, in fact, wealthy tribesmen have been “buried” on the cliffs of the Echo Valley over the centuries, offering visitors this suggestive scene. It is important to keep in mind that the trail is quite challenging, therefore, training and experience are absolutely required.
Coral Garden, Coron Island
Do you want to take a break from visiting the beauties of this country, but you still want to experience outdoor activities? Then, the Coral Garden is the perfect place for you! Located on Coron Island, the site boasts thriving coral reefs, where visitors can observe numerous coral and fish species, as well as shipwrecks and sea turtles. The Coral Garden represents also the perfect place for scuba diver beginners.