Located in the Southeast Asia and bounded by the Western Pacific waters at its right, the Philippines is considered blessed for being rich in biodiversity, mountainous terrains and dense forests, and providing breathtaking views along the coastal areas. Truly, tourists can find this archipelago an enchanting place that will fulfill their thirst for exciting adventures and activities — whether on land or water.
Surfing
The tropical climate of the Philippines and its over 7,000 islands make it an ideal place to swim, play, and lounge under the sun in one of its beautiful beaches. Since the Pacific Ocean is one of its neighboring waters, there are places seen with barreling waves that you can surf and splash on. Most locals would recommend Siargao — the country’s Surfing Capital — with good all-year round waves and a peaceful, laidback island. You can also head north in La Union — the Surfing Capital of the North — where the best surfing season is usually from July to October and November to March.
Spelunking
Channeling your inner Indiana Jones spirit? The country has also numerous destinations for spelunking which will lead you to majestic caves, and great, unusual rock formations. The Calbiga: Langun-Gobingob Caves in Samar is the largest cave in the Philippines and considered as the second largest in Asia. Meanwhile, Quirino Province’s Aglipay Caves will captivate you for its stunning and well-preserved rock formations. Of course, you don’t want to miss out exploring one of the planet’s most magnificent and impressive cave systems where you can come across during the Underground River Tour in Puerto Princesa, Palawan.
Scuba Diving
The Philippines is also famous for the underwater wonders of its marine life. So head over to one of their best diving spots to have the most memorable diving experience of your life. Apo Island in Negros Occidental has one of the most prominent marine sanctuaries in the world featuring stunning healthy soft and hard corals, and the Reefs and Wreck Dives off Coron, Palawan, allow you to dive all year round — offering one to get a glimpse of the island’s thriving coral reef.
Cliff Diving
Ariel’s Point in Boracay has five different diving platforms which allow one to jump from as low as five feet to as high as an 80-foot jump. Situated on top of a cluster of limestone formations and overlooking the crystal clear waters makes your cliff-diving experience one for the books. Take a plunge — afterwards, you can try other activities such as snorkeling and kayaking.
Trekking
While in the Philippines, adventure seekers should definitely go on an unforgettable expedition trekking one of the most captivating hills and mountains of the archipelago. While there are numerous spectacular hiking trails to choose from, Mt. Apo is the place that will give one the trekking adventure of his lifetime. Situated partly in Davao City, Mt. Apo is the highest peak in the Philippines and its rugged terrains and challenging mountain peaks offer a wide array of environments — cross from rocky landscapes to large rivers to mossy lush areas. And once you reach the top, reward yourself with the breathtaking view from the highest mountain in the Philippines.
White Water Rafting
If townsfolk and locals would talk about white rafting, there’s only one place to be — Cagayan De Oro, the country’s White Water Rafting Adventure Capital! The city is famous for the Cagayan River or Rio Grande de Cagayan’s wild, unlimited rapids that would leave one experiencing flips, getting bruised, and feeling the adrenaline rush. The dodging waves and currents will surely get you wet so paddle hard!
Kayaking
You can choose to go the extreme or just take it for a quiet adventurous move. But while there are a lot of areas where one can go kayaking, nothing will surely beat the experience of kayaking in a paradise found within El Nido, Palawan. Found in El Nido, Miniloc Island houses the Big and Small Lagoons which are surrounded by giant limestone rock formations and turquoise green waters. And before reaching your ultimate destination, experience paddling the calm water while being captivated by stunning white sand beaches, towering cliffs, and picturesque views.
Rappelling
For an extreme rappelling experience, head over to Bataan’s San Miguel Peak which is 700 feet high. Their adrenaline-pumping rappelling activity is done in what may be considered the highest in Luzon, which is equivalent to a 35-storey building. But first, one has to undergo the 20-minute trek, reach the top overlooking the wondrous view, before getting a hold of yourself down from your highest reach. Definitely scary and exciting, this activity will surely test your upper body strength and body reflexes so make sure to hold tight on your ropes.
Zipline
With vast, unparalleled sights and heights, numerous locations in the Philippines offer the zipline activity as one of their must-dos during a tourist’s visit. As one of the first adventures park in the country, Dahilayan Adventure Park in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon made its mark for luring in fearless tourists soar excitingly above the landscapes. It has a launch point of 1,400 meters above sea level, and you’ll definitely feel like Superman flying as fast as 90 kilometers per hour. While you enjoy the cool breeze, get the chance to enjoy the fresh air and green surroundings.