The Philippines has been a true adventure! After exploring Southeast Asia for a few years, I can tell the Philippines has one of the most magnificent natural territories in the world! My freestyle traveling way led me to discover the magnificent 7 wonders of Philippines. One moment I was swimming with Whale Sharks, to find myself in heaven waterfalls, and a few hours later playing beach volleyball on a paradise island with strangers
After a few months in Sri Lanka, I flew to one of my favorite countries – Singapore, and from there I approached Manila, the capital of the Philippines. As usual, I only had a draft travel plan, but I wasn’t limited by time, so I ended up exploring many of the islands.
What are the 7 wonders of Philippines?
If you are looking for adventurous traveling – the Philippines is your destination. You get to experience so many beautiful attractions across the islands. I was amazed by some of the places I found on my way, but it would take a couple of years to explore all the wonders of Philippines diverse landscape.
The Philippines are magical, hosting one of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the world, fantastic food, and the friendliest people. An interesting thing is that there are no man-made wonders of Philipines, as all is shaped by the natural beauty of Mother Earth.
One that is going to stay with me forever is swimming with Whale Sharks in Cebu – the world’s largest fish and one of the largest animals on earth. But there’s so much more to see, from volcano hiking, trekking through one of the most spectacular rice terraces (I recommend Banaue – 2,000-year-old rice terraces), often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.”, to exploring the majestic biodiversity in the lagoon waters of the islands.
Major facts about the Philippines.
- The Philippines archipelago comprises over 7,640 islands (only 2000 are inhabited!)
- It’s a true haven for authentic experiences and adventurous travel!
- It’s an island country in Southeast Asia in the western Pacific Ocean.
- The majority of habitats are Christian.
- Travel infrastructure is surprisingly advanced.
- It’s home to a famous boxer – Manny Pacquiao.
The Philippines is one of the world's most visited destinations.
There are 8.5 million visitors each year spread across the islands of the Philippines. Most of the attractions are well organised, which makes the country a family-friendly destination.
The most visited spot in the Philippines is the white beach in Boracay Island, easily accessible by direct flight from Manila on Trip.com.
I booked all my flights via trip.com and it worked perfectly to shift between the islands. Prices range between $50-$150 one-way.
1. Swimming with Whale Sharks in Cebu.
Cebu is one of the most attractive islands in the Philippines, mainly for Whale Shark watching in Oslob. I’m a diver who has actively explored many oceans but this was a memorable experience.
Interacting with these great creatures feels like a dream. I tried both: swimming and diving with whale sharks in Oslob. This attraction is available in a few locations in the Philippines but Oslob seems most spectacular.
- Palawan Island (seasonal activity available from April to October),
- Bohol Island,
- Cebu Island (Tan-awan near Oslob),
- Sorsogon,
- Donsol
You can now book the top-rated Klook Oslob Whale Shark Watching Experience in Cebu with drive pick-ups and drop-offs and you are even accompanied by expert local fishermen to make your experience a safe one – for you and the whale sharks
Or if you want to merge it with Canyoneering (must do!) you can go for Oslob Whale Shark Snorkeling and Badian Canyoneering Adventure.
2. Chocolate Hills Bohol.
The Chocolate Hills of Bohol are one of the most iconic landmarks among 7 wonders of Philippines. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, consisting of over 1,200 symmetrical hills, transforms to a rich brown color during the dry season, resembling heaps of chocolate.
There are several viewing decks for panoramic views and exploring the surrounding areas, including the Loboc River and Bohol’s famous tarsier sanctuary.
Check my full post on: How to get to the Chocolate Hills in Bohol and best attractions around the area.
You might go there with the most popular tour ‘Chocolate hills tour with Tarsier & Loboc river Buffet Lunch (half-day tour)’.
We spent a night in a cheap but cozy plase RedDoorz@Caimito Drive Dampas for around 12-14 USD per night. A few other affordable options are:
- Gomez Guest House in Tagbilaran,
- MIOKI Hometel – SuperB: around 11-12 USD per room,
- Fely’s Homestay – around 9-10USD.
The best activities to do around Chocolate Hills.
Here are some of the best activities you can enjoy while exploring the Chocolate Hills:
- Amazing BOHOL Countryside tour – the tour starts with a hassle-free pick-up from your Tagbilaran City or Panglao Island hotel and takes you through the most beautiful spots!
- Enjoy BOHOL Day tour from Cebu or the amazing Bohol Countryside Tour by Southwest Tour to discover coral reefs, unusual geographical formations and the beauty of Bohol island.
3. El Nido - Palawan.
El Nido is a marvel of natural beauty, surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs rising from the turquoise waters.
This tropical paradise is home to over 50 small islands and islets showcasing unique rock formations and incredible marine life.
A full-day tour will take you sailing toward hidden lagoons, snorkeling in coral reefs and basking in the sun on a deserted beach, where we played beach volleyball for 2 hours. El Nido is the number one site among 7 Wonders of Philippines, it is a paradise hub for adventure and exploration. We chose the El Nido Palawan yacht tour with lunch, but there are plenty of options on Tripadvisor, starting from as little as $24.
One of the best aspects of El Nido tours is island-hopping, which takes you to some of the most picturesque locations, such as the Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, and the stunning Secret Lagoon.
4. Puerto Princesa - Philippines underground river.
The Philippines Underground River is located in the mid-western coast of Palawan Puerto. Princesa Subterranean River is unreal. This 8.2-kilometer-long river flows beneath a mountain range and features impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations.
This top-rated guided river boat tour from Puerto Princesa City will take you through the underground cave system to explore unique flora and fauna and experience the thrill of navigating this underground wonder. Must-visit sites in Palawan are: Puerto Princesa, El Nido with the Palawan Underground River, one of the 7 wonders of Philippines. I recommend spending at least 7 days exploring this remote area.
5. Hiking Mayon Volcano, Albay.
Mayon Volcano is often dubbed the most active volcano in the Philippines. Located in Albay, it stands at 2,462 meters and presents an imposing sight. The area offers numerous adventure options for active travelers, including hiking and ATV tours around its base.
6. Kawasan Canyoneering in Cebu.
For canyoneering adventure in Cebu it is best to stay in Moalboal. We chose Alegria Canyoneering with Kawasan Canyoneering Operator.
This is a highly unique outdoor activity full of adrenaline-pumping challenges, and the chance to connect with nature extraordinarily. It’s a true natural wonder of the Philippines.
You’ll be jumping into natural pools, swimming through turquoise waters do a short hike through the canyons, ending with a delicious lunch in a quiet restaurant.
Manila - the capital of the Philippines.
Manila is a huge metropolitan center, it is the most populous region of the country with almost 14 mln people. Some might say Manila is busy and noisy and would prefer to escape the dusk to experience the natural beauty of the Philippines. Hold on and first check those thrilling places before you leave the city.
GRAB – download now if you don’t have it yet – it’s the most efficient and cheap way of traveling in Philippines.
Filling Station Bar & Cafe is the finest restaurant in Manila City! The retro American design and concept of the place is mindblowing! Can’t describe how cool this place is! If you’re lucky, you’ll be seated in a Cadillac next to an Elvis figure. The food is totally American-style with filling portions and incredible milkshakes!
Philippines Travel Guide – experience beyond the usual with 3-weeks itinerary!
Best things to see in Manila.
There are plenty of significant landmarks in the city that are worth visiting with these popular city tours:
- Intramuros (the historic heart of Manila) Bambike Tour
- Intramuros Walking Tour
- Manila Old & New (4h city tour).
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