Top 10 Things To Do in The Philippines

Dariece Swift author's bio Goats On The Road

The Philippines is a awe-inspiring archipelago consisting of over 7000 islands. Obviously, you won’t be able to see and do everything there in just one visit, but here’s a list of our Top 10 Things To Do In The Philippines:

1. Go Scuba-Diving

The underwater world in the Philippines is stunning. It’s like being in an aquarium. Don a mask and fins and get under there. You can see everything from sharks to puffer fish, to moray eels and sea snakes. Definitely make sure to bring your underwater camera to catch the magic. The scuba diving in the Philippines is world-class.

things to do in the philippines
Nick going for a scuba dive in the Philippines

2. Island Hop

As I said, there are over 7,000 islands in the Philippines. Hiring a boat and exploring the various islands is one of the highlights of a trip to the archipelago. Each island has something unique to offer travellers, and many of them are home to the best Philippines beaches. Don’t miss the beaches around Palawan, Boracay and Panglao islands.

SEE ALSO: Top 8 Best Places to Visit in Manila

3. Ride In A Jeepney

These contraptions are hilarious! They are leftover vehicles from WWII, which have now been turned into the most popular mode of transportation in the Philippines. Get ready for a cheap and bumpy ride.

what to do in the philippines
The most popular form of transportation in the Philippines, the jeepney

4. Spend The Night On A Deserted Island

In our opinion, this is the highlight of a trip to the Philippines. Being dropped off at a deserted island by a boatman and picked up days later is truly an off the beaten path experience! Bring your mosquito net, some basic food, matches, snorkel gear and enjoy your castaway adventure. Not keen on sleeping on the sand? Check out these top Palawan resorts for a bit more luxury!

things to do in the philippines
A stunning deserted beach! All ours for 2 days

5. Eat Local Food

The Philippines has many of the western fast food chains, however, they also have some delicious authentic dishes. Try the pancit bihon, chicken adobo and anything BBQ’d. The fresh mangoes are outstanding and the fresh seafood is to die for! You won’t be disappointed.

eating in the philippines
Fresh and delicious local mangoes

6. Snorkel With Whale Sharks

Many people come to the Philippines for this specific experience. Seeing these goliaths soaring under the water is a moment you will never forget. Insider tip: try not to scream into your snorkel or you’ll scare the animal away! Make sure that you go with a reputable company that are responsible and ecofriendly.

Click here to compare prices and read reviews on accommodations in the Philippines on Booking.com

7. Have Cocktails In The Water At Sunset

Ahh, the sunsets in the Philippines are some of the best in the world. Grab yourself a cocktail and soak in the sea while the sun sets over the horizon, the perfect end to a perfect day.

what to do in the philippines
Enjoying a perfect end to a perfect day in the Philippines

8. Visit The Newest Natural Wonder Of The World

The Underground River near Sabang on the island of Palawan is beautiful. Take a boat through the river system, walk around the jungle and then check out the nearby mangrove as well.

things to do in the philippines
Entrance to the Undgerground River in Sabang

9. Trek Through Rice Terraces

The rice terraces around Banaue, Batad and Bontoc are gorgeous! Go for a walk between villages or just gaze at the terraces in awe. They were constructed thousands of years ago. It’s unbelievable that people were able to complete this amazing feat of engineering without the use of machines.

things to do in the philippines
Us with our Filipino friend walking around the rice terraces at Banaue

10. Take A Jump Shot With The Locals

For whatever reason, Filipinos love taking ‘jump shot’ photos! It’s hilarious. While you’re standing still posing nicely for a shot, the locals will be jumping for joy.

backpacking the philippines
One, two, three, JUMP! The locals love their jump shots

There are so many things to do in the Philippines, this could have been a Top 100 list! It’s such a fabulous country with beautiful scenery, stunning beaches, friendly locals, funky transportation and delicious food. Come and see for yourself.

For more information on travelling through this awesome archipelago, check out our Budget Backpacking Guide To The Philippines.

Have you ever been to the Philippines? What are your favourite things to do there? Leave a comment below!

Like it? Pin it!

Top 10 Things To Do In The Philippines

Dariece Swift author's bio Goats On The Road

Written by

Dariece Swift

Dariece is a co-founder of Goats On The Road, and an expert in saving money, finance management, building an online business and of course... travel. She loves meeting new people, trying new cuisines, and learning about the unique cultures of our world. She has over 12 years of experience helping others to realize their travel dreams and has worked in numerous jobs all over the world to help pay for travel.

Related Posts

Aerial view of downtown Bari with old town and port area in Puglia, Italy.

20 Best Things to Do in Bari, Italy

The capital of the southeastern Puglia region of Italy, Bari, is a vibrant port city on the Adriatic Sea. Known for its atmospheric Old Town, medieval churches, stunning beaches, and delicious food and wine, there are so many incredible things to do in Bari. I spent time in Bari last month and really loved the ...
A pier with a bunch of parked boats. An historic city with green trees on the side.

15 Best Things To Do in Antalya, Turkey

There are so many things to do in Antalya; an area so beautiful, that it’s hard to believe it’s real. When you research Turkey, you’ll no doubt see plenty of pictures of this place turn up. It’s one of the best places to visit in Turkey, year-round, and I believe that it’s one of the ...
A woman and a man paragliding underneath of them a island of Ölüdeniz.

15 Best Things To Do in Fethiye, Turkey

There are so many things to do in Fethiye that revolve around nature and culture, it’s a place that definitely holds a special place in my heart. Turkey (Türkiye) is a huge country, and many people don’t see past Istanbul. That’s understandable; Istanbul is amazing and it’s somewhere I love to go, but another place ...

Comments are closed.