Nature trips in the Philippines

As one of the world's largest archipelago nations, with over 7,000 islands to its name, the Philippines has a vast array of natural sites to explore. The county is divided into three geographical areas: the Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, each with its own diverse range of landscapes. Expect to find forests, beaches and mountains, all with fascinating biodiversity. The Philippines’ national parks are also some of the best in the world, including the Biak-na-Bato and the Caramoan Peninsula National Park. 

What makes the Philippines’ nature unique?  

The Philippines is home to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including an underground waterway—the Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River. As a large archipelago, the country has natural landmarks spread all over the islands, so plan to visit a few on your trip. Some of the most popular natural attractions include Boracay Island for its gorgeous beaches, and the unusually conical Chocolate Hills.

The best national parks and natural sites in the Philippines  

With so many islands across the landscape of the Philippines, you’ve got a vast choice of natural landmarks to explore. Whether on plains, in the water or on verdant hillsides, you can choose from world-famous, blockbuster landmarks, or the lesser-known, little-visited attractions. Here are some of our favorites.

Walk through the Banaue Rice Terraces  

The locals often refer to this natural landmark as the "eighth wonder of the world." These natural rice terraces date back over 2,000 years and are located in the mountains of Ifugao. Most of the terraces were built by hand and are used for planting and growing rice and vegetables.

Explore the Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary

Located in the Davao Oriental province, this wildlife sanctuary is home to Philippine eagles, the giant golden-crowned flying fox, which is actually a bat, and small brown deer. It’s also interesting for its unusual bonsai field, where hundreds of century-old trees grow to only a few feet high. 

Check out the Mayon Volcano Natural Park  

This active volcano is located in Albay and is well-known for its symmetrical cone shape. Moreover, a hike up this volcano will give travelers a beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. 

Admire the Hundred Islands National Park  

This national park comprises around 124 islands, some of which are believed to be over two million years old. Come here to relax on the natural white-sand beaches, or walk through the thick forests cloak some of the islands. 

Dive through the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park  

Located in the middle of the Sulu Sea, Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is a protected area and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s so remote, it’s only reachable by liveaboard boat, making it hugely popular for diving. The area has a unique reef with a rich density of marine species, including the largest fish in the sea: whale sharks.

What's the best time of year to experience the Philippines' nature?

If you’re planning a trip to the Philippines, book to go during the dry season. Between November and April the country is not only fully accessible, but the temperatures also begin to rise making the trip more pleasant.