The Unforgettable Natural Bucket List for the Philippines

The Philippines has it all, from active volcanoes and underground rivers to beautiful coral reefs and white-sand beaches. Therefore, the best way to explore and enjoy the Philippines is by visiting its many natural destinations.

Snorkeling at Apo Coral Reef

Apo Reef (Photo by aporeefnaturalpark.com)

Apo is the largest atoll-type coral reef in the Philippines and the second-largest contiguous coral reef in the world after Australia's Great Barrier Reef. Apo Coral Reef Park is a paradise for divers and snorkelers.

The park consists of three islands, Apo being the largest, and offers overnight camping. The park also boasts crystal-clear waters covering approximately 17 square miles, teeming with wildlife.

A wide variety of creatures can be found here, including 400 species of coral and 400-500 marine species, such as sharks, rays, and tuna. The elusive giant whale shark also occasionally passes by.

Paddling through Hundred Island National Park

Hundred Island National Park (Photo by Visit Philippines)

The Philippines is home to over 7,000 islands, so exploring Hundred Island National Park is a top-notch experience. Surrounded by azure waters, some are simply boulders or mushroom-shaped at the top due to centuries of tidal action pounding against their limestone bases. The best way to explore these islands is by renting a kayak.

Explore the underground river

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park (Photo by guidetothephilippines.ph)

The Sabang underground river flows directly beneath the Saint Paul Mountains for five miles and is protected as the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. To explore this area, visitors are encouraged to take a small paddleboat and navigate through one of the longest caves in the world.

An audio guide will provide information on the area's history, while the guide will point out the fantastic stalactite and stalagmite formations using a high-powered flashlight. Don't forget to look down, as the waters are teeming with beautiful underwater life.

Enter the world of the Bakhawan Forest

Bakhawan Forest (Photo by Wikipedia)

The Bakhawan EcoPark is a 543-hectare forest, the result of a mangrove reforestation project in the 1980s, covering an area of ​​only 123 hectares. Bakhawan means mangrove in the local Aklanon language, and indeed, mangroves are abundant here.

The EcoPark boasts over 20 different mangrove species, as well as a diverse range of birds and marine life. Visitors can follow short bamboo paths that wind through the forest to a lagoon, where they witness the confluence of the Kailbo River and the Sibuyan Sea. Foodies can also try tamilok, a worm-like creature that is actually a shellless saltwater clam that feeds on rotting mangrove wood.

An unforgettable experience at an active volcano

Mount Iglit-Baco National Park (Photo by Wikipedia)

In the heart of Mindoro Island lies the Mount Iglit-Baco National Park, home to 5,000 endangered tamaraws. Here, visitors can also encounter wild pygmy buffalo and the Philippine tarsier, which is becoming increasingly rare and is listed as endangered. While this trip can be done in just one day, overnight camping is highly recommended. This tour is provided by the Sablayan Tourism Office.