Great food, quiet cultural places and beautiful ocean fun – the Philippines has it all. Whether it is swimming with the giants of the ocean or seeking out the quiet sanctuaries of the mountains, there is something for every traveller.
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
• Whale shark swim in Oslob & Donsol: Jump into the clear ocean for a swim with the gentle whale sharks. In tropical waters, safety rules help us to watch these large animals glide gracefully.
• Canyoning at Kawasan Falls Trek: through the lush green forest, jump off the high waterfall cliffs and swim down the river canyons in Badian, Cebu.
• Island Hopping El Nido: Cruise under high limestone cliffs, snorkel at marine sanctuaries and visit secret lagoons filled with tropical fish.
Cultural Experiences
• Old Manila (Intramuros) Tour: Experience the sights of the old city on a traditional horse-drawn carriage ride along cobbled streets; visit centuries-old Spanish forts and historic churches.
• Cebu Taoist Temple: Climb the 81 steps (symbolising the number of Taoist sacred scriptures) and take in the city view with the colourful dragon carvings and pagodas.
• Hike the Banaue Rice Terraces: Be amazed by the green terraces carved into the mountains by native ancestors 2,000 years ago.
Food and Local Experiences
• Try the World Famous Crispy Lechon Cebu, slow-roasted pork, served steaming hot with aromatic garlic rice and tasty sauce.
• Sweet Halo-Halo – cool down with a delicious shaved ice dessert with sweet milk, purple yam and tropical jellies.
• Experience Street Food Markets: Discover the busy night markets at Sugbo Mercado and enjoy grilled chicken, fresh seafood skewers and local munchies.
Unique Experiences
• Visit Bohol’s Chocolate Hills – over 1,000 limestone hills shaped like cones that turn chocolate brown during the dry summer months.
• Look for the Smallest Tarsiers: Travel to the protected sanctuaries of Bohol in the Philippines to see some of the world’s smallest primates snoozing in bamboo groves.
• Underground River Boat Ride: Glide silently past the dark limestone caves of the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River in Palawan.
Planning Your Visit
What is the best season to swim with whale sharks?
The best time to swim with whale sharks is between May and October. The best time to see whale sharks is between November and May, when the seas are calm, the visibility is good and sightings are most likely.
When is the best time to go for a swim for tourists?
The first tours depart between 6:00AM and 9:00AM when the ocean is at its most calm and ocean life is at its most active.
Why Travel To The Philippines?
This is a place to enjoy warm tropical weather, unbelievably friendly locals, rich cultural traditions, and marine encounters you will only experience once in a lifetime.
Philippines: Endless ocean fun, warm hospitality and lifetime memories. Start planning your itinerary today to see these great island highlights!
