RICE TERRACES

Ifugao, Cordillera Administrative Region

The rice terraces stand as a testament to the ingenuity, culture, and tradition of the
people who lived in the Cordillera mountain range and carved these “stairways to
heaven” out of necessity 2,000 years ago. Depending on what you want to see, you
could visit the rice terraces during planting or harvest seasons or when it’s at its
greenest, but skip the rainy season (June to November) to avoid landslides and
Christmas, New Year, and Easter to avoid the crowd.

PUERTO PRINCESA UNDERGROUND RIVER

Recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature, the Puerto Princesa
Underground River is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A 45-minute tour will take you
through the subterranean river system that’s 8.2 kilometers long and empties directly to
the sea. Be on the lookout for impressive limestone karst and other rock formations like
the “holy family” rock formation inside “the chapel.”
Get to the site early (or risk waiting for hours) and make sure to have your entry
permits on hand.
 TINUY-AN FALLS
Borboanan, Bislig City, Surigao del Sur

Enclosed by old mossy trees, vines, and ferns, Tinuy-an Falls features powerful, surging
water cascading like curtains in three levels. Then, between 9 and 11 a.m., magic
happens in the “Niagara Falls of the Philippines” when a rainbow appears like clockwork.
It is the widest waterfall in Mindanao at 95 meters (311 feet). It’s best to visit the falls
during the hot dry season (March to May) or during the weekdays when it’s not very
crowded. Be prepared for a bumpy ride in a “habal-habal,” a motorcycle ride typically with
more than two people, and make sure to arrange your ride back.

MOUNT MAYON-ALBAY, BICOL

Rising more than 2,400 meters above sea level, Mayon Volcano looms over Legazpi and
its neighboring towns, a majestic cone dominating the flat plains of Albay. Rent an ATV or
pick a trail and trek to the top for an amazing view of the surrounding towns and the
Pacific Ocean. As Mayon is an active stratovolcano, it’s best to always check with local
authorities for warning levels before and during your scheduled trip.
 TAAL VOLCANO AND TAAL LAKE
Batangas, Luzon

KAYANGAN LAKE CORON

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Considered one of the cleanest lakes in Asia, Kayangan Lake remains an ideal spot for
photography and relaxing in a soothing natural environment. Besides going on a ferry ride,
you can also reach the site by going on a hike through mountainous hills. Although you
can swim in the lake, do not attempt to dive here, as the sharp underwater rocks could
cause serious injurie.