Must-Visit Places in Each PH Region that You Should Not Miss
Only a few of us can truthfully and confidently say that they have traveled across all the regions of the Philippines. There are 17 regions in total, and each one of them has its own unique charm that sets it apart from the others. There’s so much to explore in the different provinces and islands (all 7,641 of them!) that it can get hard to keep track of all the places that you must experience.
That’s why we have made this list of one destination per region that you definitely should not miss if you plan on going across the country. Some are quite popular while some are newer to the scene, but all of them deserve to be on your bucket list and your next getaway.
Region I – La Paz Sand Dunes, Ilocos Norte
This desert in the north promises a captivating vacation if you’ve grown tired of the tropical beach life. Explore the golden sands of the La Paz Sand Dunes by cruising with a 4X4 on the coast, or try sandboarding from the tallest sand dunes for a one-of-a-kind adventure.
CAR Region – La Trinidad, Benguet
If you’re in the Benguet area but want to escape the crowds of Baguio City, a good alternative is the nearby but equally charming La Trinidad. This humble province has so much to offer, with its abundant fruit farms, trinket markets, and accommodating people. One famous destination is the colorful houses in the Colors of StoBoSa that are sure to make any gloomy day much happier.
Region II – Palaui Island, Cagayan
What more do you need than a panoramic view of the sea from the peaceful cliffside of Palaui Island? Palaui is a protected island off the coast of Cagayan that is untouched by the crudeness of modern living. With its scenic lighthouse and hidden waterfalls, Palaui is a postcard turned to life.
Region III – Baler, Aurora
Baler, Aurora is a world-famous tourist destination known for its powerful waves, making it a perfect place to do some surfing in Cemento Beach. But more than that, this small town also offers a hiking experience in Ermita Hill or some beach bumming in Sabang Beach.
NCR Region – Metropolitan Museum of Manila, Manila
When thinking of a vacation, city dwellers would much rather go out of Manila than stay in it, but the busy city also has its appeal if you look close enough. One great way to have a vacation in Manila is by learning about art in a museum, such as the Metropolitan Museum of Manila. Lazily stroll around the hallways of the Met and appreciate the masterpieces of some of our renowned Filipino artists.
Region IVA – Masungi Georeserve, Rizal
Masungi Georeserve is a trip with nature and discovery course rolled into one. This nature park in Rizal is a worthwhile vacation for those who enjoy the freshness of the outdoors. Get to challenge yourself with Masungi Georeserve’s rope obstacle courses and hanging bridges.
Region IVB – Puerto Galera, Mindoro
Fall in love with the island life in Puerto Galera, Mindoro, where all around you you’ll see white sand beaches, aquamarine waters, and tall palm trees. You also shouldn’t miss going on the island’s forest trail that will lead you to the enchanting Talipanan Falls.
Region V – Donsol, Sorsogon
Get a chance to swim and interact with the majestic whale sharks that go visiting the town of Donsol in the months of February to April. Donsol is also rich with advanced scuba diving points such as the Manta Bowl Shoal, where you can sight colorful coral formations and the beautiful manta rays.
Region VI – The Ruins, Negros Occidental
If you want to know what it was like to live like a don or dona during the Spanish colonial times, you must visit The Ruins in Bacolod City. This intricate and Italianate mansion has withstood the test of time and is pretty much intact. Throughout the years, The Ruins and the surrounding gardens have undergone sophisticated maintenance, making this mansion as glorious as it was many years ago.
Region VII – Chocolate Hills, Bohol
Bohol constantly rakes in tourists from all around the world to see its magnificent rolling hills that change from green to chocolate brown with the turn of the seasons. There are more than a thousand of these hills in a vast expanse of 50 kilometers, making the Chocolate Hills a breathtaking sight to experience.
Region VIII – Kalanggaman Sandbar, Leyte
The crystal-clear waters of Kalanggaman Island are a perfect spot to do some water sports and underwater explorations. The long stretch of white sand in this 750-meter sandbar is the tropical stroll that is the perfect way to get away from the hustle and bustle.
Region IX – Once Islas, Zamboanga
An up-and-coming tourist destination in Zamboanga, Once Islas is a cluster of eleven islands that are slowly being developed. Currently, four of the islands are opened to the public, such as Bisaya-Bisaya Island. Here you can explore the different rock formations near the coast, where you can also have a splash of an underwater adventure.
Region X – Dahilayan, Bukidnon
For those who like some extreme sports, you need to visit the Dahilayan Adventure Park in Bukidnon. Here you can experience zip lining, para-jumping, and even Great White water rafting, all with the breathtaking view of lush greeneries.
Region XI – Philippine Eagle Center, Davao del Sur
This vast area of protected land is specialized for the sanctum of the endangered Philippine eagles, the country’s national bird. The vast assemblage of flora is designed for the proliferation of these majestic birds, as well as other endemic birds and reptiles. Visiting the Philippine Eagle Center is a great opportunity to learn more about sustainability and eco-tourism.
Region XII – Mount Apo, Kidapawan
The highest peak in the country, Mount Apo is also a rich sanctuary of different flora and fauna unique to the region. You can arrange an adventurous hike to brave this mountain of 3144 meters above sea level. Different well-established trails are available that take you on a tour of different parts of the mountain. Depending on what you’re prepared to go through, rock bars, jungle trails, or a grassland trek in this diversity hotspot is an adventure you should not miss.
Region XIII – Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte
This surfer magnet down under has recently been getting a lot of traction from the tourist scene. Siargao Island has everything that the islander deep inside every one of us is wanting for a vacation. Surfing piers, hidden lagoons, and cave pools are all scattered in this beautiful tropical paradise.
BARMM – Panampangan Island, Tawi-Tawi
Tawi-Tawi hides some of the most beautiful and untouched white-sand beaches in the world. One of which is in Panampangan Island, which boasts the longest sandbar in the Philippines. With more than three kilometers in length, Panampangan Island is an enchanting trip to a one-of-a-kind paradise.
Did we miss anything on our list? What places do you want to include in your PH bucket list? Share them with us below!
