There are so many great things to discover in this list of the 10 places to visit in the Philippines before you die. The archipelago known as the Philippines is filled with sights and spots that you won’t find anywhere else. The country has been known to be filled with natural wonders and resources. Many people visit here to see some of the best beaches, diving spots and landscapes the world has to offer. The Philippines is also a country filled with old historical sites.
The Philippines was once a colony of Spain. It had been a colony for such a long time that Spain influenced a lot the current culture of the country. From food to language and even currency, you’ll notice cultural aspects of the country coinciding with Spanish culture. The country was finally freed after the Americans went to war against Spain. Due to the nature of this freedom that the Americans gave the Philippines, most citizens retain a high degree of respect towards the country. During World War II, Japan seized the Philippines and held it for a short period of time.
You’ll find that the country is a mixing pot of multiple cultures. This is evident in some of the places listed here. You’ll even find vast differences of these attractions if you compare it to the 10 Best Places to Visit in Thailand before you die . Even before the colonization of Spain, the Philippines were already influenced by cultures of different countries. You’ll even notice ancestral lines leading to the Malay and Chinese. Let’s go ahead and list down the exciting places one can visit in the country:
10. San Agustin Church
This Manila church is the oldest stone church still standing in the country. The church was built around the 1500s and has survived multiple calamities. It survived two widespread fires and seven devastating earthquakes.
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9. Tubbataha Reef
One of the places divers aspire to visit. The Tubbataha Reef is a preserved marine ecosystem at the southern tip of the Philippines. You’ll find a lot of coral walls that abruptly end revealing the deep sea. Diving excursions are often done on April to June.
8. Malapascua Island
Due to the increasing popularity of beaches in the Philippines, very few islands remain untouched. Malapascua Island is one of the destinations in the country that remains well preserved. It has sandy white beaches and clear waters best for diving excursions. You’ll also find that manta rays, thresher sharks and hammerhead sharks appear here on a regular basis.
7. Donsol
The fishing village of Donsol has become quite a unique attraction. You’ll experience immersion in nature in your encounters with waterfalls, beaches and caves. Whale sharks are also regular visitors to the area and fireflies are seen aplenty during the night.
6. Mayon Volcano
Mayon Volcano is the most active volcano in the Philippines. It has erupted 49 times in the last 400 years. You’ll find remains of towns and buildings destroyed by previous eruptions. The area itself has also become a popular tourist spot with hiking and bird watching expeditions happening regularly.
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The best places are yet to come as we continue this list of the 10 places to visit in the Philippines before you die.
5. Puerto Princesa Underground River
Puerto Princesa is definitely the place to go to if you’re looking for the best nature has to offer in the country. Located on the island of Palawan, this underground river is the world’s longest navigable underground river. From the tours you’ll be able to see unique rock formations and rich wildlife.
4. Boracay
The popular small island of Boracay has been a frequent destination for both foreigners and locals. The island sports award-winning beaches that are filled with activities, people and food you won’t find anywhere else. Even during the night, the island transforms into a party hub. If that isn’t enough for you, the island also has unique nature destinations such as lagoons and volcanic caves.
3. Puerto Galera
If you’re looking for charm like Boracay but with fewer people, then the coastal town of Puerto Galera is the place to visit. It has beautiful beaches and it’s a haven for diverse marine life. You can get the chance to snorkel and see some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world.
2. Chocolate Hills
This unique formation of 1200 “hills” is one of the most famous destinations in the Philippines. The almost symmetrical hills have a unique feature that astounds both geologists and tourists. The grass on these land formations has a tendency to change colors at the same time during changes of seasons. The change of color is usually from green to brown, hence the name Chocolate Hills.
And, the best place to visit in the Philippines before you die is: Banaue Rice Terraces
The long trip to the northern territory of the Philippines is well worth it if you plan to see the famous rice terraces. The Banaue rice terraces are farm lands sculpted into the side of mountain ranges. These terraces resemble giant steps. What’s amazing about them is that they were made without any of the modern tools we have today, being made 2,000 years ago.
There you have it the 10 places to visit in the Philippines before you diel. Be sure to visit these places on your next trip to this archipelago.
