travel brochure visayas

Negros Oriental

Visit Central Visayas

The Official Travel Guide of Central Visayas, managed and curated by the Regional Office 7 of the Department of Tourism of the Philippines

Spend time in the company of friendly people or waste it with the remarkable creatures of the natural environment.

Explore historical sites and imbibe the stories of an interesting cultural heritage.

Dine in style at its world-class outlets or savor a myriad flavors of tasty native cuisine.

Experiences

Be awed and feel the rich and diverse wonders of Central Visayas. May it be exotic flora and fauna, serene diving spot, unique festivals, wellness and healing, or even nightlife. It’s all here for you to explore and enjoy.

Rock Climbing

Paragliding

Motorcycling

Island Hopping

Attractions.

Central Visayas is home to the many attractions in the Philippines. Discover its white sandy beaches, unspoiled natural wonders, scenic terrains, and more.

Birdwatching

Transcentral Highway

Historical Sites

Arts & Culture

Immerse yourself with the Visayan’s vibrant colors and rich cultural heritage that spans hundreds of years, emerging from the pre-colonial era to the modern times of free-spirit and mind.

Cultural Treasure

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The Visayas, Philippines

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The Visayas, a collection of jigsaw-shaped islands in the heart of the Philippines , are considered the cradle of the country. Comprising thousands of islands and atolls, this relaxing region is a bounty of tropical sands and coral reefs; everywhere you turn, there seems to be another beach or dive site. There are four major island groups in the east – Cebu, Bohol, Samar and Leyte – but it’s the hundreds of tropical enigmas in between that make this part of the Philippines so irresistible. The western half, whose highlight is Boracay, offer opportunities for everything from diving and snorkelling to great hiking.

The best travel tips for visiting Visayas

Best things to do in visayas, where to stay in visayas, best restaurants and bars in visayas, how to get here, how many days do you need in visayas, tips for getting around, best time to visit visayas, tailor-made travel itineraries for philippines, created by local experts.

4 days / from 1250 USD

Tropical Escape to Palawan

Only have a few days to discover the island paradise of El Nido? Fly into Manila and take a domestic flight the next day to enjoy the white sandy beaches. Take a full day boat tour to discover the Bacuit Bay before enjoying a last dinner on the island and heading out to Manila on Day 4.

13 days / from 2430 USD

Island Paradise Palawan

Explore the island paradise of Palawan: From the Underground River in Sabang to feeling like Robinson Crusoe on Flower Island to the popular dive and beach hang-out El Nido, this itinerary shows you the variety Palawan has to offer.

9 days / from 2750 USD

Paradise Islands: Boracay & Palawan

Discover two paradise islands in the Philippines: world-famous Boracay and El Nido on Palawan. Enjoy luxurious hotels, white sandy beaches, a fascinating underwater world and the hospitality of the local population.

Tailor-made trips for Philippines

Boracay is indeed captivating; with its pristine beach, it is on almost everyone’s itinerary. But if Boracay is too touristy for you, try laidback Siquijor or tiny Apo Island near Negros, a marine reserve where the only accommodation is in rustic cottages. For even less developed spots, head over to the Eastern Visayas for Panglao Island off Bohol, or the tantalising beaches and waters of Malapascua off the northern tip of Cebu Island.

For trekking and climbing make for Mount Kanlaon National Park on Negros, one of the country’s finest wilderness areas. The largest city in the Visayas is Cebu City, the arrival point for a limited number of international flights – as well as a major hub for domestic airlines – making it a good alternative base to Manila . It’s friendly, affordable and has a buzzing nightlife scene, with great restaurants and live music.

Need help planning a trip? Perhaps our local experts in the Philippines can help you out

Visayas is perhaps the most alluring region of the Philippines, a sunbleached concentration of islands littered with beaches, crumbling churches, sugar plantations and untouched reefs. Here are some of the best things to do in Visayas.

#1 Kick back on picture-perfect sands at Boracay

Though overdeveloped, Boracay’s picture-perfect White Beach is still one of the best anywhere. Discover also a quality dining and wild nightlife scene, plus activities from scuba diving to kitesurfing.

It may be only 7km long and 1km wide at its narrowest point, but Boracay has over thirty beaches and coves, and enough accommodation options to suit all budgets. Watching the graceful paraws (sailing boats) setting sail at sunset is worth the journey on its own.

Though Boracay is popular with domestic tourists, they are outnumbered by foreigners, both on package and independent holidays; this gives the island a strong international feel.

Sun beds on the lonely beach, Boracay © saiko3p/Shutterstock

#2 Head off the beaten track in Romblon

Off the northern coast of Panay, between Mindoro and Bicol, the province of Romblon consists of three main islands – Tablas, Romblon and Sibuyan, plus a dozen or so more smaller islands.

The province is largely overlooked by visitors because of limited transport connections, and once you’re here, to put it simply, there’s not that much to do.

However, as Boracay becomes increasingly crowded, Romblon makes an ever-more appealing option, and little by little it is making its way onto travellers’ radars, aided by the opening of new resorts and activities, particularly on the southernmost island of Carabao.

For now, though, most of Romblon remains wild and untouched and is home to some beautiful and rarely visited beaches and coral reefs, making it an excellent off-the-beaten-track destination for scuba diving.

Mount Guiting-Guiting, on Sibuyan, also offers one of the country’s most challenging hikes.

#3 Keep on partying at Ati-Atihan Festival

Ati-Atihan is the biggest bash in the Philippines, with wild costumes, outdoor partying and copious food and drink. This quasi-religious mardi gras is held every January in Kalibo.

The culmination of the two-week event is a procession through the streets on the third Sunday of the month, a sustained three-day, three-night frenzy of carousing and dancing.

Cross-dressers bring out their best frocks, and schoolgirls with hats made of coconuts join aborigines, celebrities and priests in fancy dress.

Throw in the unending beat of massed drums and the average Filipino’s predisposition for a good party, and the result is a flamboyant alfresco rave that claims to be the biggest and most prolonged in the country.

The Ati-Atihan mantra Hala Bira, Puera Pasma translates as “Keep on going, no tiring.”

Ati-Atihan-festival-philippines-shutterstock_1096300700

Ati-Atihan Festival © Shutterstock

#4 Live like a sugar baron in Silay

The elegant town of Silay, about 15km north of Bacolod, is an atmospheric relic of a grander age when Negros was rich from its cultivation of sugar cane.

In the late eighteenth century it was talked about as the “Paris of Negros”, with music performers from Europe arriving by steamship to take part in operettas and zarzuelas.

This passion for music and the arts gave Silay – and the Philippines – its first international star, Conchita Gaston, a mezzo-soprano who performed in major opera houses in Europe in the postwar years.

Today, Silay’s major tourist draw is its ancestral homes, most of them built between 1880 and 1940. Some of the best are open to the public or have been converted into hotels, offering a glimpse of what life was like for the sugar barons.

#5 Extreme trekking in Mount Kanlaon National Park

At the centre of the forested park is Mount Kanlaon (2435m), the tallest peak in the central Philippines and one of the thirteen most active volcanoes in the country.

Climbing it offers a potentially dangerous challenge, with the real possibility of violent eruptions – climbers have died scaling it – and the crater’s rim is a forbidding knife edge overhanging an apparently bottomless chasm.

The dense surrounding forest contains all manner of wonderful fauna, including pythons and tube-nosed bats, and locals believe the mountain is home to many spirits.

There are three main routes up the volcano itself. The Guintubdan trail is the easiest and most common ascent.

The 14km-long Mananawin trail works best over three days and offers the chance to really get to know the region, while the short, steep Wesey trail is very exposed and only for experienced tropical mountaineers. Whichever route you choose, you’ll need a guide.

#6 Laze beneath swaying palms on Sugar Beach

Negros’ most delightful strip of sand is a superb place to unwind and a good jumping-off point for magnificent Danjugan Island.

Resorts can arrange boat transfer, picking you up from Poblacion Beach in Sipalay; a cheaper, less direct alternative is to take a tricycle to Nauhang, then a small paddle boat across the creek, and walk around the headland – better still, ask to be let off the bus in Montilla, 5km northeast of Sipalay, only a short tricycle ride from Nauhang.

Although it’s just 5km as the crow flies from Sipalay, the absence of road access to beautiful Sugar Beach, cut off by knobbly green hills, makes it feel more like an island.

While it may not have the white sand and azure waters of Boracay, it offers a relaxed vibe, plus a good selection of small resorts ranging from ultra-budget to mid-range.

#7 Delve beneath the waters surrounding Apo Island

This Robinson Crusoe-esque hideaway off Negros has become a prime destination for divers, most of whom head out for the day from Dumaguete, Dauin or Siquijor.

Site of one of the Philippines’ first and most successful marine reserves, Apo has a series of reefs teeming with marine life, from the smallest nudibranch to the largest deepwater fish.

The sanctuary area is on the island’s southeast coast, while much of the flat land to the north is occupied by the only village, home to four hundred fisherfolk and farmers.

Non-divers needn’t be bored; Apo has some fantastic snorkelling and it’s a great little island to explore on foot.

#8 Take a tour of Siquijor

Small, laidback Siquijor lies between the islands of Cebu, Negros and Bohol. The island is a peaceful and picturesque pleasure to tour, whether by bike, tricycle, motorbike or jeepney – the entire 72km coastal road is paved (a rare delight in the Philippines) and traffic is light.

The beaches alone make it worth a visit, but there are also mountain trails, waterfalls and old churches to explore as well as decent scuba diving. The island is gradually becoming more popular, but for now it remains relatively unexplored by tourists.

Most places to stay are within half an hour of the port towns of Siquijor and Larena, notably around San Juan, south of Siquijor, and at Sandugan, north of Larena.

A number of resorts have certified dive operators who will take you on trips to places such as Sandugan Point and Tambisan Point, both known for their coral and abundant marine life.

At Paliton Beach there are three submarine caves where you can see sleeping reef sharks, and at Salag-Doong Beach, on the eastern side of the island, divers have occasionally reported seeing manta rays and shoals of barracuda.

apo-reef-island-philippines-shutterstock_1436855105

Apo island reef © Shutterstock

Visayas offers something for everyone in terms of accommodation, whether you’re looking to blow the bank on luxury or go as pared back as possible. Here’s where to stay in East and West Visayas.

Biliran Island

Accommodation on Biliran Island is relatively limited. Head to Bohol for reliable hotels and guesthouses. There are also a few beachfront resorts, and some homestay options.

Camotes Islands

Accommodation on Camotes Islands is relatively affordable and ranges from budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels to several upscale resorts. Travellers find their main options around Santiago Beach in southern Pacijan.

Cebu has a wide choice of accommodation , with chic waterside resorts and guesthouses, reliable backpacker spots and some boutique rooms in the city.

The mainstay of accommodation is in Tacloban . Accommodation ranges from quirky budget rooms to affordable mid-range places; along the coast find a few more fancy resorts and dive-focussed accommodation .

Dive resorts take centre stage along several beaches. The two main cities, Dumaguete and Bacolod, offer decent midrange choices , and those heading to the mountains will find a scattering of peaceful getaways.

In Bacolod there are three main areas to choose from: foodies will relish the uptown choices around the northern section of Lacson St.

There are over three hundred places to stay on Boracay, which means that except at peak times (Christmas, Easter and Chinese New Year, when prices can rise by as much as fifty percent) you should be able to find a room simply by taking a stroll down White Beach.

Romblon Province

Expect beachfront resorts with pools, bars, restaurants, and water sports, comfortable hotels with basic amenities such as air conditioning, TV, and hot and cold showers, smaller and more affordable guesthouses, and homestays for those keen to experience local culture and hospitality.

Much of the best accommodation is around the San Juan area – from budget through to high-end – though also look to Larena and Solangon for plush leafy resorts.

Browse the best hotels in Visayas .

Paliton beach in Siquijor Island Philippines © Thijs Peters/Shutterstock

The food scene in Visayas varies greatly between towns and islands but the best restaurants and bars are generally on the most popular destinations for travelers like Boracay, which serves up plenty of local and international fare. In the west, try inasal (marinated grilled chicken with anchiote, calamansi, garlic and lemongrass).

Bacolod’s dining scene has moved uptown and upscale in recent years, with a cosmopolitan range of trendy cafés and restaurants along northern Lacson St, while time-tested favourites still hold their own in the old city. It’s also worth checking out the row of identikit chicken restaurants at Manokan Country. Dumaguete also has an expanding food scene that features everything from fresh seafood stalls to quality international cuisine.

Across the river from the Iloilo City centre, Smallville Commercial Complex has everything from coffee shops and restaurants to bars featuring live bands, and full-blown clubs like Aura, Ice and MO2. Coffeebreak is a citywide chain that does good coffee and cakes. There are a surprising number of Mexican places in Roxas City; Eleckuisine is probably the best. Baybay Beach has some retty beachside restaurants selling good quality seafood.

Boracay has a more diverse dining scene than most cities in the Philippines, and even in a two-week stay you can only sample a fraction of the options. There are also plenty of local vendors who set up barbecues on the beach at sundown to cook everything from fresh lapu-lapu and squid to tasty local bananas sprinkled with muscovado sugar. Conversely, the big international chains also have a noticeable presence.

There is a good Italian in Romblon Town. Of the nearby islands, Tablas has pizzerias and other simple restaurants, whilst Carabao has some beautiful beaches with half-decent places to eat along the sand.

Eating is almost exclusively in the resorts, apart from some humble local joints, mainly in San Miguel, serving lechon and the like.

The main drag in Siquijor Town, Rizal St, is chock-a-block with cheap canteens and bakeries selling fresh pan de sal. On the North Coast, expect more Filipino specialties and traditionally local cooking.

Cebu’s cosmopolitan dining scene is seriously on the up, offering everything from excellent snack joints to Michelinstar restaurants. Though there are places to eat all over downtown, many of the best options are to be found in the city’s malls, notably The Terraces at the Ayala Center, a tastefully designed food court overlooking atmospheric gardens.

North of the centre, the malls Crossroads and Banilad Town Center (BTC) are also home to the city’s best international restaurants. Fast-food chains and coffee shops are so commonplace that it can feel as if there’s one on every corner.

Panagsama and Alona beaches has a number of good cafes and coffee shops as well as laidback place rustles up tasty international dishes and top-notch wood-fired pizzas. Nightlife mainly revolves around resort and dive-shop bars, but there are a few independent party places by the beach. Don't miss BBQ served upstairs at The Garden Café and Montana Restaurant.

The Balicuatro Islands has family-run places and good cafes, it's all fast-food favourites in Calbayog, and Borongan’s dining options are limited aside from at the hotels.

These days Tacloban has a pretty sophisticated restaurant scene, including weekend pop-ups and American-style smokehouses. In between meals, there are plenty of local specialities to snack on – binagul, a hot sticky concoction made of coconut and nuts, and chocolate meron can be bought freshly made every morning from hawkers along Rizal Ave.

These are the best restaurants and bars in Visayas.

21, Bacolod. Popular with Bacolod’s elite and middle classes, this institution dishes out amazing batchoy (noodle soup with crispy pork) and excellent seafood, from blue marlin with herb butter to good oldfashioned fish and chips. White tablecloths and attentive service complete the picture.
Chicken House, Bacolod. An oldie but a goodie, Chicken House has been serving up sumptuous roast chicken and other grilled meat for three decades and continues to draw in the local crowds with its distinctive flavours and low prices.
Casablanca, Dumaguete. Movie-themed, Austrian-owned restaurant which offers fine European cuisine to a mainly expat clientele. Most dishes such as pasta and Indian chicken curry are good, though it’s worth splashing out for the undeniably excellent signature Brazilian beef tenderloin. Casablanca also has its own bakery and deli, a decent wine list and a changing daily menu.
The Garden Café and Montana Restaurant, Bohol. Established by the Bohol Deaf Academy and providing training for up to forty deaf students, The Garden Café has a menu mixing Mexican and Filipino dishes. You can communicate with the staff in writing or with sign language (a few basic signs are listed on the menu).

Mt. Kanlaon, Canlaon City, Neg. Occ., Philippines © Shutterstock

Mt. Kanlaon © Shutterstock

Being a collection of islands, getting to the Visayas is best done by air or sea.

Reaching the Visayas by plane is easy. There are several airports in the region that cater to both domestic and international flights.

Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) is the main gateway to the Visayas region and is located in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu. It has direct flights from major cities in Asia as well as domestic flights from Manila, Davao, and other cities in the Philippines.

Other airports in the Visayas receiving flights from the region are Iloilo International Airport (ILO) in Cabatuan, Iloilo, Bacolod-Silay International Airport (BCD), Tagbilaran Airport (TAG) on Bohol and Dumaguete-Sibulan Airport (DGT).

Several ferry companies operate routes to the Visayas region from different parts of the Philippines. Popular routes include Manila to Cebu, Dumaguete to Cebu, and Iloilo to Bacolod.

Ferries offer different classes of accommodation, ranging from economy to first class. Fastcraft is faster and more expensive than regular ferries, but they offer a more comfortable and convenient option for travellers. They operate shorter routes and can take you from one island to another in a shorter amount of time. Some popular fastcraft routes include Cebu to Bohol and Iloilo to Bacolod.

Roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) vessels transport vehicles, goods, and passengers. They operate between different ports in the Visayas region and are a popular option for travlelers who want to bring their own vehicles. Some of the popular Ro-Ro routes include Cebu to Bohol, Dumaguete to Siquijor, and Bacolod to Iloilo.

If you want to explore several islands and visit popular tourist destinations like Boracay, Cebu, Bohol, and Palawan, you’ll need at least two weeks in Visayas.

Spend 1-3 days in Cebu City, exploring the historic sites of such as Magellan's Cross and Fort San Pedro. Head to Bohol for days 4-6 to tour the famous Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, and Man-made Forest.

Visit the beaches of Panglao Island and enjoy water activities such as snorkelling and diving. Don’t miss a scenic cruise along the Loboc River. Days 7-9 aim for Siquijor to explore beaches like Salagdoong Beach and Paliton Beach.

Visit the Cambugahay Falls here too and enjoy swimming in the natural pool. Take a tour of the island to see attractions such as the Old Balete Tree and the San Isidro Labrador Church.

Days 10-12 go to Dumaguete for Apo Island and enjoy snorkelling or diving with sea turtles. Also explore the Silliman University and the Dumaguete Belfry. Take a food tour of Dumaguete and try local delicacies like budbud kabog.

Finally on days 13-14 finish in Boracay. Relax on the white-sand beaches and enjoy water activities such as parasailing.

Looking for inspiration for your trip? Talk to our Philippines travel experts .

Tropical island in Romblon Philippines © Shutterstock

The Visayas region is composed of many islands, and there are several ways to travel around the region depending on budget and time. Here are the best ways for getting around Visayas.

Several airlines offer flights in the Visayas region, such as to Cebu, Bohol, Iloilo, and Dumaguete. This is the fastest and most convenient way to travel around the region, especially if you are short on time.

Ferries and bangkas – wooden outrigger boats – were once the bread and butter of Philippine travel. Though most routes have been made redundant by budget air travel, they are still important in the Visayas.

For shorter inter-island trips, ferries remain the only form of transport available, and in the Visayas island-hopping by boat can be an enjoyable and rewarding part of your trip.

If you prefer land travel, you can take a bus to different destinations in the Visayas region. This is a good option if you want to travel at your own pace and explore the different towns and cities along the way.

By rental car or motorcycle

Renting a car or motorcycle can be a good option if you want to explore the region independently. However, be aware that road conditions can vary, and traffic can be heavy in some areas.

By tricycle or jeepney

Tricycles and jeepneys are common forms of transportation in the Philippines, and they can be a fun way to get around. However, they may not be the most comfortable option for longer journeys.

The best time to visit Visayas is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is generally sunny with occasional rain showers, making it a great time for outdoor activities like island hopping, snorkeling, and diving.

However, if you are specifically looking to go whale shark watching in Oslob or go diving in Malapascua Island, the best time to visit would be from December to May. This is when the waters are the clearest and most suitable for these activities.

On the other hand, if you want to experience the region's colorful festivals, like the Ati-Atihan Festival in Aklan or the Sinulog Festival in Cebu, plan your visit during January. If you're interested in seeing the famous MassKara Festival in Bacolod, visit in October.

It's also important to note that Visayas is prone to typhoons, which can occur between June and October. So, if you plan to visit during this time, be sure to check the weather forecasts and plan accordingly.

Find out more about the best time to visit Philippines .

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Exploring Central Visayas, Philippines: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Central Visayas, a region in the Philippines, is a tropical paradise teeming with natural beauty, vibrant culture, and a wealth of historical heritage. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey through Central Visayas, from its top places to visit and the best time to explore, to activities, transportation options, dining choices, street food delights, accommodation, and essential travel tips for an unforgettable trip to Central Visayas, Philippines.

Places to Visit in Central Visayas, Philippines Central Visayas is home to a myriad of breathtaking destinations. Here are some must-visit places in the region:

Bohol Explore the Chocolate Hills, marvel at the Tarsier Sanctuary, and take a Loboc River cruise.
Cebu City, Cebu Visit historical landmarks like Magellan’s Cross and Santo Niño Basilica. Don’t miss the vibrant Carbon Market.
Panglao Island, Bohol Relax on the pristine beaches of Panglao, go island hopping, and dive into the marine sanctuaries.
Oslob, Cebu Swim with whale sharks in Oslob, a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Siquijor Island Discover the mystical and enchanting Siquijor Island with its beaches, waterfalls, and healing traditions. Best Time To Visit Central Visayas, Philippines The best time to visit Central Visayas depends on your preferences and the activities you want to enjoy:
Dry Season (November to April) The dry season is ideal for beach activities, outdoor exploration, and festivals.
Festivals (Various Months) Plan your trip to coincide with local festivals such as Sinulog Festival in Cebu (January) or Sandugo Festival in Bohol (July).
Whale Shark Season (November to May) If you want to swim with whale sharks in Oslob, visit during their season for the best experience. Things to Do in Central Visayas, Philippines Central Visayas offers a wide range of activities. Here are some top things to do in the region:
Beach and Island Hopping Explore the beautiful beaches and go island hopping to discover hidden gems.
Historical Exploration Visit historical sites and landmarks, including centuries-old churches and ancestral houses.
Adventure Activities Engage in adventure activities like canyoneering, diving, and snorkeling.
Wellness and Healing Traditions Experience the healing traditions and wellness practices in Siquijor, known for its traditional healers.
Cultural Immersion Immerse yourself in local culture by participating in festivals and learning about the traditions of the region. How to Get Around in Central Visayas, Philippines Getting around Central Visayas is convenient with various transportation options:
Tricycles and Jeepneys Tricycles and jeepneys are common modes of transportation for short distances and within towns.
Buses and Vans Buses and vans connect different cities and provinces in the region, making longer journeys comfortable.
Ferries and Boats Ferries and boats are essential for traveling between islands, especially to popular destinations like Bohol and Siquijor.
Walking In cities and towns, walking is suitable for exploring local attractions and neighborhoods.
Rental Vehicles If you prefer more independence and flexibility, consider renting a car or motorbike. Where to Eat in Central Visayas, Philippines Central Visayas boasts a rich culinary tradition. Here are some dining recommendations:
Local Restaurants Visit local restaurants to savor regional dishes like “lechon” (roast pig), “kinilaw” (ceviche), and seafood.
Seafood Restaurants Enjoy fresh seafood at local seafood restaurants and eateries.
Markets and Food Stalls Explore local markets and food stalls for a taste of Central Visayas’ street food and snacks.
Cafes and Bakeries Sip coffee and indulge in pastries at cafes and bakeries in the region.
Healing and Wellness Cuisine In Siquijor, try dishes prepared with traditional healing ingredients and practices. Famous Street Stalls in Central Visayas, Philippines While Central Visayas may not be known for street stalls as much as some other regions, you can find local vendors offering snacks and specialties in certain areas. Here are a few places to explore:
Local Markets Visit local markets to sample Filipino street food like “balut” (duck embryo), “kwek-kwek” (quail eggs), and “isaw” (grilled chicken or pork intestines).
Festivals and Events During local festivals and events, street stalls often set up, serving traditional dishes and snacks.
Local Snack Shops Explore local snack shops offering regional delicacies and sweets. Where to Stay in Central Visayas, Philippines Central Visayas provides a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are some recommendations:
Hotels and Resorts Find hotels and resorts in popular tourist destinations for a comfortable and convenient stay.
Guesthouses and Inns Look for guesthouses and inns for budget-friendly accommodations without sacrificing comfort.
Boutique Hotels Explore boutique hotels in the region for a unique and personalized stay experience.
Eco-Lodges Some eco-lodges offer unique stays close to nature, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Homestays Consider staying in homestays for a more immersive cultural experience and interaction with locals. Travel Tips for Central Visayas, Philippines To ensure a memorable and enjoyable visit to Central Visayas, consider these travel tips:
Respect Local Customs Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites and participating in local festivals.
Cash and ATMs While you can find ATMs in larger towns and cities, it’s a good idea to carry enough cash, especially in remote areas.
Local Dialects While English is widely spoken, learning a few basic phrases in Cebuano or other local dialects can enhance your interactions with the community.
Weather Preparedness Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially during the rainy season. Have rain gear and protective clothing ready.
Wellness and Healing Practices If you’re interested in wellness and healing practices in Siquijor, respect the local traditions and customs associated with these practices. Central Visayas, with its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and culinary delights, offers an unforgettable travel experience in the Philippines. Whether you’re diving in Bohol, exploring historic sites in Cebu, or immersing yourself in Siquijor’s mysticism, Central Visayas promises a unique and enriching journey. Plan your trip, embrace the local traditions, and create lasting memories in Central Visayas, Philippines.

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A First-Timer’s Guide to the Visayas region of the Philippines

In the heart of the Philippines lies the Visayas region, a mesmerizing tapestry of six major islands and a multitude of smaller ones. It is one of the three major island groups in the country, namely, Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. It boasts of some of the world’s finest beaches, awe-inspiring landscapes, delectable cuisines, and warm-hearted locals. Truly, this island group is a dream destination for first-time travelers.

However, navigating this diverse paradise can be a challenge for newcomers. Often, it leads to unexpected detours to the bustling capital, Manila. But fear not, as we unravel the secrets of the Visayas to ensure a seamless and unforgettable journey for all.

The Visayan Tapestry: Where Rich History Meets Tropical Beauty

The Visayas region holds a special place in Philippine history, being the first landing point of the Spanish conquistadors. That is to say, they set foot on the eastern shores and made their way to the central hub in Mactan and Cebu. Along the way, they left behind a legacy of some of the country’s oldest and most magnificent churches.

Separated into three regions (6 – Western, 7 – Central, and 8 – Eastern Visayas), it comprises 16 provinces, each with unique charm.

Western Visayas: A Symphony of Sugarcane Fields and White Sands

In Western Visayas, sugarcane plantations, ancient churches, and pristine beaches shape the landscape. Meanwhile, they speak the melodic language of Hiligaynon.

Ilonggos, known for their friendly nature, hail from the Western Visayas region, comprising six provinces on Panay and Negros islands.

Six airports in Caticlan, Kalibo, Roxas City, San Jose, Iloilo City, and Silay-Bacolod serve the region.

Aklan lies at the northwestern part of Panay Island with Kalibo as its capital. In fact, it is one of the top destinations in the Visayas and even the entire Philippines. Specifically, tourists find their way to the famous Boracay Island . Additionally, visitors often flock here in January for the vibrant Ati-Atihan Festival.

Antique is at the western stretch of Panay Island with San Jose de Buenavista as its capital. The province is home to the notable Mount Madja-as. It features various mountains, rivers, waterfalls, and minor islands like Mararison Island . Moreover, the town of Tib-iao offers exciting adventures for explorers.

Filipinos dub Capiz as the “Seafood Capital of the Philippines” due to its delicious sea catch. To note, it is situated in the northeastern part of Panay Island with Roxas as its capital.

Accessible by boat from Iloilo City in around 15 minutes, Guimaras is an island-province with Jordan as its capital. Moreover, locals refer to it as the “Mango Capital of the Philippines” because of its sweet mangoes. Besides, the Taklong Island National Marine Reserve adds to the province’s appeal.

On the other hand, Iloilo lies at the southern and southwestern part of Panay Island. Its capital is Iloilo City , recognized as one of the UNESCO Creative Cities of Gastronomy. Known for its excellent eateries and popular markets like the La Paz Market , Iloilo City hosts the annual Dinagyang Festival in January. The province, especially its southern part , boasts of numerous old churches and heritage sites, including the Miag-ao Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Negros Occidental

Negros Occidental is at the western half of Negros Island, with Bacolod City as its capital. Locals dubbed it as the “Sugarbowl of the Philippines” due to its vast sugarcane plantations and sugar factories. Consequently, it has the second-highest number of cities after Metro Manila, with 19 municipalities and 13 cities. Furthermore, travelers make their way to Silay City for its historical houses or to Sipalay City in the south for its beautiful beaches.

Central Visayas: Diving into Paradise and Rich Heritage

A favorite among divers and history enthusiasts, Central Visayas is a treasure trove of natural wonders. It stands out as a beloved destination in the Philippines. In particular, locals and tourists love its captivating diving sites, unspoiled beaches, rich historical tapestry, and breathtaking natural wonders.

Cebuano serves as the primary language in Central Visayas, making it a linguistic focal point in the region. Moreover, this region encompasses four provinces from three major islands, namely, Negros, Cebu and Bohol. Additionally, travelers can access these islands through airports located in Mactan-Cebu, Bohol-Panglao, and Dumaguete.

Chocolate Hills, Bohol, Visayas, Philippines

With Tagbilaran City as its capital, Bohol is an island-province renowned for its island resorts and the iconic Chocolate Hills. Notably, Bohol is the habitat of the tarsier, the world’s smallest living primate.

Cebu is an island-province with Cebu City as its capital. Interestingly, it holds the distinction of being the oldest city in the Philippines, affectionately called the “Queen City of the South.” Moreover, tourists travel to Cebu City annually for the vibrant Sinulog Festival held in January.

Mactan Island is a gateway to Cebu’s diverse attractions. For instance, the island is the site of the historical battle between Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan and local hero Lapulapu.

Adventurous travelers come to Cebu to experience various adventures. For example, they seek the thrill of whale shark encounters in Oslob and canyoneering in Badian . Similarly, travelers enjoy exploring the underground caves in the Camotes Islands and other enticing diving spots across the province.

Negros Oriental

At the eastern half of Negros Island, lies Negros Oriental , with Dumaguete City as its capital. Travelers come here to enjoy its tranquility. Specifically, they travel to see the distinguished landmarks like Silliman University and the scenic Boulevard. Additionally, the southern part of the province boasts Apo Island, a renowned diving destination. Also, Bais is not left behind as it is a haven for dolphin watchers.

Accessible by ferry from Dumaguete, Cebu, and Tagbilaran, the island-province of Siquijor exudes of mystique and beauty. Its capital is the municipality of Siquijor. Despite being a relatively less-traveled destination, tourists come to Siquijor for its tranquil beaches. Definitely, it is an ideal retreat for those seeking relaxation and serenity.

Eastern Visayas: A Resilient Haven Facing the Pacific

Facing the mighty Pacific, Eastern Visayas always endures the brunt of typhoons, emerging as a testament to resilience. With Leyte and Samar as its major islands, this region invites adventurers to discover the region and traverse the longest bridge in the country connecting Leyte and Samar – the San Juanico Bridge.

Waray stands out as the predominant language spoken in Eastern Visayas. Since it faces the Pacific Ocean, it always bears the impact of typhoons. In particular, the super typhoon Haiyan in 2013 caused extensive damage to the region. Eastern Visayas encompasses six provinces, with airports in Tacloban City, Calbayog, and Catarman.

Biliran is an island-province known for its numerous waterfalls. It lies at the northern tip of Leyte, with Naval as its capital.

The province of Leyte gained historical significance as the site of General Douglas MacArthur’s return to the Philippines, fulfilling his promise. You can find the province at the northern part of Leyte Island, with Tacloban City as its capital.

Southern Leyte

History buffs often associate Southern Leyte with Limasawa, believed to be the site of Magellan’s first landing. The province is at the southern part of Leyte island, with Maasin as its capital.

Eastern Samar

Eastern Samar faces the Pacific Ocean and boasts of numerous surfing spots due to its strategic location. For those interested on traveling there, it is on the eastern side of Samar Island, with Borongan as its capital.

Northern Samar

Northern Samar has a wealth of old churches, natural attractions, and picturesque beaches. Make your way to the northern part of the island towards Catarman, as its capital.

The province of Samar earns the nickname “The Caving Capital Province of the Philippines” due to its abundance of caves. Consequently, it lies at the western part of Samar Island, with Catbalogan as its capital.

Crafting Your Visayan Odyssey: A Traveler’s Guide

Roll-on roll-off (roro).

Embarking on a Visayan adventure requires strategic planning. Specifically, begin from Manila or Cebu, the main entry points, and use ferries or RORO ships for island-hopping. Meanwhile, craft a well-thought-out route, exploring Boracay, Iloilo City, Bacolod, Dumaguete, Cebu, Bohol, Leyte, and more. Also, you can opt for sea travel strategically to avoid flight pitfalls, ensuring a direct and efficient journey.

Planning your Route

Traveling from Manila to the Visayas, you may start in Boracay via Caticlan airport. After you explore Panay, head to Iloilo City, then ferry to Bacolod. Next, a bus ride to Dumaguete follows, and a ferry to Cebu precedes exploration. Additionally, take another ferry to Bohol, return to Cebu, and then a flight or ship to Leyte concludes the journey.

For those starting in Cebu, explore the province first, then head to Bohol. After that, take a ferry from Ubay, Bohol, to Batu, Leyte, which opens up Eastern Visayas exploration. Afterwards, return to Cebu and continue to Siquijor and Dumaguete. Consequently, a land trip around Negros Island precedes a ferry to Iloilo City. Finally, explore Panay Island south to north.

However, avoid flights from Cebu to Tagbilaran or vice versa; opt for the ferry instead. Also, for Iloilo to Bacolod and vice versa, sea travel is easier and more direct. Similarly, avoid flights between Bacolod and Dumaguete; a land trip is more direct between these cities on Negros Island.

Tips for an Unforgettable Visayan Sojourn

Geography Matters : Familiarize yourself with the Visayan geography to optimize your route and minimize travel hiccups.
Festival Feast : Check festival dates to immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture and witness major festivities.
Cash is King : Keep cash on hand, as some areas may have limited ATMs and restricted credit card transactions.
Local Guidance : When in doubt, reach out to local tourism offices to avoid scams and ensure a smooth travel experience.
Language Love : While English or Tagalog might suffice, learning a few Cebuano phrases will undoubtedly enhance your connection with the locals.

Embark on Your Visayan Adventure

Now, with a well-laid plan and these insider tips, you’re ready to embark on an exhilarating journey through the enchanting Visayas. From the sugary shores of Boracay to the historic streets of Silay, let the Visayas weave its magic and create memories that will last a lifetime. So, pack your bags, embrace the sea breeze, and let the Visayas unfold its unparalleled beauty before your eager eyes.

Travel Itinerary around the Visayas

In this post i’m going to share the travel itinerary in the philippines’ central area, the visayas archipelagus, with capital cebu..

Paradise beaches, stunning green landscapes and a rich and amazing underwater world. Waterfalls, hiking adventures, the friendliest and always welcoming locals. Also the sweetest mangoes in the world (people there are pretty proud about this one!), and so much more: it’s easy to put the Philippines at the top of the list of the places I’ve got the luck to visit.

Even with the best intentions, I quickly discovered it is actually pretty difficult to visit the whole country. It is made of thousands of different islands, with different carachteristics, and even different langauges.

My initial plan was to spread the 25 days I planned to stay there between the Visayas archipelagus , the famous Palawan island , and the “mainland” Luzon , home of the capital Manila, the Pinatubo Mountain and the Batad’s Rice Terraces , to add some hiking and countryside explorations after the beach days.

I really don’t like to rush and jump between tourist attractions, and I finally discovered that 25 days where just enough to visit only the area around Cebu.

When planning the trip always consider two factors:

travelling around can be very time consuming, sometimes even if choosing the more expensive “tourist ways”. Unless you are willing to fly between the islands or take private fast boats

every place is so amazing that you will keep extending your stays everywhere you go! That’s why I always reccommend not to book too much ahead and set a very tigh shedule

Fist of all, some boring (but useful) planning tips:

Just remember that you MUST have an outgoing flight already booked before entering the country (it seems like even if you’re willing to extend your visa), and they’ll almost surely ask you for it at the departure airport: I’ve heard about many one-way ticket travellers like me being forced to randomly book a flight before get on the plane.

What I can suggest in this case, is to just book the cheapest flight you can find on Skyscanner, and then decide if take it or just forget about it. W ith most passports you can easily get a free visa upon arrival for 30 days, which is possible to extend up to 3 months paying a fee, or just flying out and back in for a nearby country like Macao or Taiwan, usually for cheaper price than the visa extension with Air Asia.

the local currency here is the Peso Philippino, worth about 0,017 euros

Remember that most places are cash only, unless you’re going to stay in fancy hotels, eat in expensive restaurants and so on. Also when it’s about diving and tours, in general the local businesses ask for cash payment, while the biggest companies more easily accept cards.

If possible I’d suggest to bring cash to exchange (one of the best rates seems to be at the counters usually located inside the main shopping malls), as any withdrawal costs 250p plus your card surcharge, and most of the banks only allows you to take up 10.000 p for each operation. Also directly paying by card will usually add a fee around the 5% of the paid amount.

a good way for saving up some cash can be to book your stay and activities trough booking sites that also make you already pay, even if I don’t completely recommend it as that belongs to a lower income for the local owners.

Getting there:

the two main international airports are surely in Manila and Cebu, but there are several other small ones all around the country. it is not unusual to find pretty cheap flights, with air Asia or other companies. Especially if departing from Manila, remember to get there at least 4 hours before you flight.

It’s now time to begin with the itinerary, starting and ending from the visayan capital

1) cebu city, to get to the city from the mactan airport, simply head outside and catch a city bus for 40 php to the sm city cebu, a big shopping centre not far from the port. from there you can either find a taxi, moto taxi, or try to find the right jeepney from the terminal in front of the mall (ask your guest if you already have one)..

I choose to trust a moto-taxi driver to my hostel as after 40 hours of travel I just wanted to go straight to the hostel, but in the end we got lost anyways. I stayed in an hostel called “Hey Fellas!”, close to the Ayala Shopping Mall. Nothing fancy, but I loved there! The guys working there are very friendly and helpful, they let me leave some stuff I didn’t need for the whole trip and their driver Francis, and planned for me a trip to the hills.

2) Way to Malapascua

Finally time to get the first tropical feeling in the tiny northernmost island of the visayas, the real diver’s paradise of malapascua. be ready, as despite the relatively short distance this journey will take about 5 or 6 hours.

the starting point of the journey is the north bus station (reachable from Ayala taking the O1K jeepney for only 7php!).

From the terminal you can chose to get a bus (the most common is probably the yellow Cere’s), or a Van, for about 250 php, to Maya Port. The van is the most unpredictable choice in terms of time: it is faster than the bus (some of them really drive like crazy!), but it will probably stop at any person the driver will see walk or just stay at the side of the road until completely full.

From Maya, you can jump on a traditional ferry for 100 php, and eventually, depending on the tide, on a small 20 php rowing boat after that. On the island you’ll be able to walk pretty much everywhere, but there’s also plenty of bikers always ready to give you a ride.

I spent 5 amazing days on this little corner of paradise, where you’ll fine plenty to do!

Head back to Cebu from the same way. Just remind to leave the island in the morning if possible, as it’s easier to find a boat and the bus/van after that.

If you have a bit of spare time, another tropical paradise you’ll pass by on the way to Malapascua is Bantayan, reachable by taking the ferry from Hagnaya Port, about half an hour before Maya. Unfortunately I didn’t have the time to accept the invitation of a nice couple I’ve shared the van ride with to go visit their home there, but iI’ve heard it is a really beautiful island.

3) bohol island, amazing nature and lots of fun. in two words: bohol island the best way to explore this big green island is driving around by motorbike. , you can find my full bohol travel itinerary in this post .

from Ayala (again) take the Jeepney 14D to the 138 Mall, from where you can either walk directly to the Pier 1 or take another Jeepney. Once in the Port try to avoid the many “tousit deals” and walk all the way to the Ocen Jet’s counter, selling the route for 450 php + 25 php fee and eventually 50 php more for the big baggage. There are also other different companies with slightly different prices and time shedules. I took the one I choose just as example, but my suggestion is simply to check the one that fits more with your plans.

4) the Mysterious Siquijor

it is possible to reach this mysterious island directly from Bohol, without firstly go to Cebu or Dumaguete, and for a pretty cheap price, if you manage to do it on the right day: the Light Ship coming from Cebu sails the way between Tagbilaran and Larena (Siquijo’s main city) every monday, thursday and saturday at 7 pm, for only 330 php . Just be aware you’ll get there pretty late, as the sail takes about 3 hours.

Luckily, especially for solo and not-so planned travelers like me, Larena’s port is not as crazy as Tagbilaran’s or Cebu’s, and you can easily make your way to town or the nearby rental place and start riding around like I did here.

5) oslob and moalboal.

Heading to Moalboal as following and last stop of the trip, the initial only possible ways to get there seemed to be sail firstly to Dumaguete or back to Cebu.

Asking people around, I finally found out of a direct ferry from Larena to Santander, Cebu Island’s southernmost port: the 5 pm Mayo Shipping for 200 php , definitely cheaper and faster than both the alternative ways.

There’s just one problem, for those willing to reach Moalboal like me, and I realized only when in Santander: there are no busses going north along the west coast after 5 pm.

The only options then are to stay there for the night, hire a private driver, or take a bus to the nearby Oslob , on the east coast, famous for the Whale Shark Swimming .

Since I was already there, I have to confess I left the hostel’s owner to convince me to end up in this tourist trap, according to many locals I met before an open water aquarium.

This was my Whale-sharks experience:

Waking up at 5am and pay 1100php to jump on a small boat and then stay in the water for like 10 minutes, surrounded by more people than sharks. I’m not saying underwater giants are not amazing, but surely is difficult to enjoy them in that situation, and most important is definitely not good for them.

When the fist bus leaves, It is finally time to head to Moalboal, precisely to the actual place where all the accomodations are: Panagsama Beach.

Between running sardines, diving trips and waterfalls adventures, there’s soo plenty to do for even a week! And as often in the Philippines, SOO MUCH FUN!

To reach it from Oslob, firstly take a bus back south to Bato for about 1 hour. And from there another one for 2 hours to Moalboal, from where the only way to cover the last about 4 kilometres is by motorbike.

This was just a summary of my amazing adventure around the Visayas in March 2019, with all the links to more detailed posts about each place.

As always, fell free to add something, or to ask if you have any question for me!

Thank you for taking the time to read this post!

Feel free to leave a comment below or share it with your friends, if you liked it. I would really appreciate it 🙂

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Regions [ edit ]

For Wikivoyage purposes, we divide the region up by islands and provinces; see the Administrative divisions section below for how the Philippine government divides it. For interesting places that are not separate provinces, see the Cities section and the Other destinations section of the article.

Provinces [ edit ]

Some of the most important provinces consist of one main island plus a few smaller ones nearby. These are:

Cebu Province , a large island and a populous province, transport hub of the region, Has the largest urban center in the Visayas, Metro Cebu , with Mactan-Cebu International Airport , a major air hub and the Philippines' second busiest airport. Many visitors enter the Visayas via either this airport or the sea port in Cebu City .
Bohol , a mid-sized province with a booming tourist industry. Attractions include the resort area Panglao Island , the scenic Chocolate Hills, and a forest reserve with Tarsiers, one of the world's smallest primates.

Other large islands have more than one province:

Panay with Aklan , Antique , Capiz , and Iloilo provinces. The main tourist draw is the highly developed beach resort island of Boracay .
Negros with Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental . Tourist draws include the tallest peak in the Visayas, the semi-active Kanlaon Volcano near Bacolod, the tourist town and retirement destination Dumaguete , and diving destinations such as Apo Island .
Leyte Island with Leyte Province and Southern Leyte
Samar Island with Samar Province , Northern Samar and Eastern Samar .

The region also includes several small island provinces, each one main island plus some smaller ones nearby:

9.18 123.58 1 Siquijor — between Bohol and Negros, known for legends of witches and sorcerers.
10.566667 122.583333 2 Guimaras - between Panay and Negros, famous for mangoes.
11.583333 124.483333 3 Biliran - between Samar Island and Leyte Island

Some provinces that are linguistically and ethnically connected to the Visayas are not covered here because they are administered as parts of other regions, To the north, Masbate and Romblon are under the political jurisdictions of Bicol Region and Mimaropa respectively, both administered as parts of Luzon . To the south, Camiguin is part of Mindanao .

Administrative divisions [ edit ]

The Philippine government divides the Visayas into three regions for administrative purposes:

This division is at least partly based on language. All these provinces plus some areas outside the Visayas speak Visayan languages , but all the areas designated as Central Visayas speak Cebuano while Hiligaynon and others are important in the west and Waray in the east.

Cities [ edit ]

10.676458 122.950917 1 Bacolod — the provincial capital of Negros Occidental and home of the MassKara Festival where it got its nickname "The City of Smiles". It is the center of the Metro Bacolod urban area, the largest in Negros and second in the Visayas.
12.066667 124.6 2 Calbayog — the capital of Samar.
10.293 123.902 3 Cebu City — the capital of Cebu Province and the regional center of Central Visayas . It anchors the sprawling Metro Cebu urban area. It is home of the Sinulog festival and the centuries-old Magellan Shrine. It is nicknamed the 'Queen City of the South".
9.310278 123.308056 4 Dumaguete — the provincial capital of Negros Oriental, with a clean sea-front boulevard and several universities. This "City of Gentle People" is a popular destination for both tourism and retirement .
10.716667 122.566667 5 Iloilo City — known as the "City of Love" in the Philippines. Known for its festival, the Dinagyang.
11.010556 124.6075 6 Ormoc — main ferry port of its region
11.244444 125.003889 7 Tacloban — the regional center of Eastern Visayas and the capital of the province of Leyte. It is home of the famous Pintados Festival and the San Juanico Bridge that connects Leyte to Samar.
9.65 123.85 8 Tagbilaran — the provincial capital and main transport hub of Bohol.
11.589444 122.751111 9 Roxas — the capital of Capiz. Seafood of assorted kinds is popular in this midsized coastal city.

Other destinations [ edit ]

9.079 123.271 4 Apo Island — a diving destination near Dumaguete; has a large, protected coral reef
11.975 121.9225 5 Boracay — a major resort island at the northwest corner of the Visayas.
10.666667 124.4 6 Camotes Islands - an island group near Cebu
11.333333 124.116667 7 Malapascua — small island with good beaches, diving, reefs and sharks
9.95 123.4 8 Moalboal — once mainly a backpacker destination, it has good diving and has been developed to welcome a broader range of visitors
10.266667 124.05 9 Olango Island in Metro Cebu - a popular destination for bird watchers, also has a large protected coral reef area
9.6 123.816667 10 Panglao Island in Bohol Province — a major resort area near the provincial capital.
9.75 122.4 11 Sipalay - a quiet off-the-beaten-path area with fine beaches

Understand [ edit ]

The history goes back to prehistoric times; the largest migration was of Austronesian people, who are the ancestors of most modern Filipinos and related peoples, such as Indonesians, Malaysians, Micronesians and Polynesians. There are several different theories which differ on the details, but all agree that the migration took place several thousand years BCE.

The Portuguese adventurer Ferdinand Magellan led a Spanish expedition that made the first circumnavigation of the earth in the 1520s, and visited the Visayas. Limasawa in Southern Leyte , is where the first Christian mass in the Philippines was held. Magellan himself did not complete the trip; he was killed while fighting a Visayan warrior-ruler named Lapu-Lapu on Mactan Island , Cebu Province .

Talk [ edit ]

There are three major local languages in the Visayas group of islands; Cebuano , Hiligaynon and Waray .

Cebuano is widely spoken in the Central Visayas , as well as Eastern Visayas. It is also the main language in large parts of Mindanao .
Hiligaynon (also known as Ilonggo) is widely spoken in Panay and Guimaras , as well as in the central southwestern part of Mindanao.
Waray is widely spoken in the Eastern Visayas , from Samar Island to the northeastern part of Leyte, and parts of Biliran.

Negros is divided linguistically; Negros Occidental mainly speaks Hiligaynon while Negros Oriental mainly speaks Cebuano.

There are other local languages in the Visayas such as Capiznon , Aklanon and Kinaray-a in some parts of Panay and Porohanon in Cebu's Camotes Islands. Nearly all are members of the Visayan languages group. In Capul Island close to Samar, a non-Visayan language called Inabaknon is spoken.

Despite differences in local languages, most Visayan people speak and understand English, as well as Filipino. Both are official languages for the country and are taught in all schools, but neither is indigenous to this area. A few locals will also understand various other languages; the Visayas is home to many of the overseas workers that keep the Philippines afloat economically with their monthly remittances and then come home to retire and build a house with their savings.

English: Good morning! Cebuano: Ma-ayong buntag! Hiligaynon: Ma-ayong aga! Waray: Maupay nga aga!

English: Good afternoon! Cebuano: Ma-ayong hapon! Hiligaynon: Ma-ayong hapon! Waray: Maupay nga kulop!

English: Good evening! Cebuano: Ma-ayong gabi-i! Hiligaynon: Ma-ayong gab-i! Waray: Maupay nga gabi!

Get in [ edit ]

The region's main air hub is Mactan-Cebu International Airport . It has domestic flights to most airports in the Philippines, international flights to many in the Asia/Pacific region, and a few to places beyond that. Other airports with some international flights are Iloilo, Kalibo and Panglao .

There are many flights from Manila to most major cities in the Visayas — Cebu, Tagbilaran , Tacloban , Kalibo , Iloilo , Bacolod and Dumaguete — mostly on Air Asia, Cebu Pacific or Philippine Airlines. Some of these also have flights from Cebu, but many travellers use buses or ferries instead. A few have flights from CDO/Iligan airport or Clark .

The port in Cebu City is the main hub for sea travel. It has boats to many destinations in the Visayas, several in Mindanao , and Manila . Other port cities such as Dumaguete and Iloilo also have many ferries.

Get around [ edit ]

There are ferries nearly anywhere in the Visayas, with the port in Cebu City as the main hub and smaller ports all over the region. There are also lots of buses, many of which ride ferries for parts of their routes. See the "Get in" sections of destination articles for details.

See [ edit ]

Landmarks [ edit ]

San Juanico Bridge (Eastern Visayas)
Magellan's Shrine (Central Visayas)
Magellan's Cross (Central Visayas)

Natural spots [ edit ]

Balinsasayao-Danao Lakes (Negros)
Chocolate Hills (Central Visayas)
Kanlaon Volcano (Negros)
Langun-Gobingob Caves (Eastern Visayas)
Sogod Bay (Eastern Visayas)
Danao Lake (Eastern Visayas)

Wildlife [ edit ]

Tarsier of Bohol, a primate only about the size of a chihuahua

Do [ edit ]

Ati-atihan Festival (January, Western Visayas)
Dinagyang Festival (January, Western Visayas)
Sinulog Festival (January, Central Visayas)
Pintados Festival (June, Eastern Visayas)
MassKara Festival (October, Negros)

Eat [ edit ]

Drink [ edit ], stay safe [ edit ].

The area has significant risk of typhoons ; travellers should check weather reports regularly and either take precautions or, even better, get out of the area when a storm is expected.

The Visayas were hit extremely hard by Typhoon Haiyan, one of the largest tropical storms on record, in November 2013. Thousands were killed and whole towns flattened. Cleanup and rebuilding were almost done when they were hit again by Typhoon Ruby in December 2014. Damage this time is not nearly as severe but travellers should expect disruption of various services, especially in the Eastern Visayas.

Stay healthy [ edit ]

As for most travel, it is worth checking with your doctor and possibly getting some vaccines before setting out. The area is tropical, so see also tropical diseases .

Taking precautions against mosquitoes , including insecticide treatment for clothing and gear, is a good idea anywhere in the region. Dengue fever is fairly common and the dengue vaccine should be considered. Zika virus is quite rare throughout the country, but it is not unknown so women who are or may become pregnant should be especially cautious about mosquitoes. Unlike some other areas of the country, the Visayas have no risk of malaria .

The region has lots of stray or feral dogs and cats, and some rats, mice and bats, so rabies vaccinations may be a good idea.

Go next [ edit ]

The obvious places to go next are the other parts of the Philippines — north to Luzon , south to Mindanao , or west to Palawan . There are flights and ferries to some of those from most major cities in the Visayas. The main hubs are in Metro Cebu , Mactan-Cebu International Airport for flights and the port in Cebu City for ferries. Iloilo has a ferry to Palawan via the Cuyo Islands .

Mactan-Cebu Airport also has connections to many Asian cities, and a few beyond Asia. Iloilo and Kalibo airports also have some international flights.

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Visayas travel guide

Typhoon Haiyan has caused severe destruction in parts of the Philippines. See the latest travel advice from the Foreign and Commonwealth office or donate to the Red Cross appeal .

Strung like a necklace of uneven beads, held together by seas, straits, and gulfs, the Visayas are home to the Philippines’ premier tourist attractions. The six major land masses and fringe groups of isles between Luzon and Mindanao parade calm waters, shimmering coves, and palm-fringed beaches. Seafood is enviably fresh in the region dominated economically by hauls from under the ocean.

Visayan labels the people and dominant language of the region, though three distinct cultural-linguistic groups live on the islands that span Leyte in the east to Panay in the west. Most people farm or fish, with rural poverty widespread.

The most popular Visayan island is tiny Boracay , where 3km (2-mile) -long White Beach rocks to the beat from scores of noisy resorts. It’s a teaser for more pristine coastlines elsewhere that are just as popular with divers and snorkelers. Bohol’s Alona Beach caters to diving, and more sedate Moalboal on Cebu Island and tiny Apo Island off Negros see more scuba traffic. After toweling off, tour Fort San Pedro in Cebu city or grab beers in one of the city’s bar districts.

Jet planes whisk travelers from Manila to Cebu and most other Visayan capitals in under an hour, but the best way to see the Visayas up close is by boat. It takes 20 hours by sea from Manila to the Visayas. Far shorter routes from Cebu reach Bohol, Negros, and Samar.

One guy who should have avoided boating in the Visayas is Portuguese sailor Ferdinand Magellan. The trip started well on March 16, 1521, when he anchored in Leyte Gulf. Enrique de Molucca, Magellan’s Malaysian slave, hailed a small boat of eight natives from the rail of their ship the Trinidad. The natives understood him perfectly, meaning the world had been circled linguistically. Enrique de Molucca became the first known person to circumnavigate the globe.

A Borocay beach, (photo by Chris Stowers)

Places to see in the Visayas

First "discovered" in the 1960s, Boracay is synonymous with Philippine beach tourism and has become a fabled paradise for travelers because of its long white-sand beach with coral reefs just offshore. In the morning, before headcounts thicken, the sight greeting arrivals can hardly avoid being photographed: a gentle sea, the whitest of white beaches, tall coconut palms swaying in the breeze.

Today resorts are packed in wall-to-wall, vying for a piece of the oceanfront along with dive shops, Western restaurants, and open-air massage parlors. Mobile touts sell sunglasses and souvenirs on the sand, while swimmers mix with bancas in the light-blue waters offshore. The south end of White Beach is generally less crowded and more laid back than the central sands. A 15-minute walk eastward from White Beach leads to the less scenic, wind-whipped “back beach” (Bulabog Beach and surroundings), where a few resorts have opened for travelers who are weary of the traffic elsewhere on Boracay.

Fort San Pedro and Colon Street, Cebu City

The city of Cebu is the oldest in the Philippines, the commercial and education center of the Visayas, and the hub of air and sea travel throughout the south.

A large wooden crucifix that was left by Magellan in 1521 commemorates the archipelago’s first encounter with the West. Magellan’s Cross, at upper Magallanes Street, is Cebu’s most important historical landmark. Its supposed remnants are encased in a black cross of tindalo wood and housed in a kiosk (to stop people from taking home pieces as souvenirs), which also serves as a shrine commemorating the initial conversion of the islanders to Christianity. It’s unsure whether the original cross has survived, but what is known is that Legazpi replaced that original cross of evangelization four decades later. Cebuano devotees may be seen visiting the shrine, pausing for prayer, lighting candles, or dropping coins into the alms box.

As the oldest Spanish settlement in the country, Cebu has numerous sites that depict its rich colonial heritage. The foremost is the Fort San Pedro, a Spanish fort built in the 17th century and reinforced in 1738 to repel attacks by Muslim or European raiders. It is a triangular fort with bastions at each point, and an earth embankment. The walls are 6 meters (20ft) high and 18 meters (60ft) thick, with the bastions rising some 9 meters (30ft). The fort has since been used as a prison for Cebuano rebels during the Spanish era, a military outpost by the Americans, and a prisoner of war camp during the Japanese occupation. Its main building now houses a museum.

Named after Christopher Columbus, Colon Street used to be Cebu City’s main thoroughfare, where all the moviehouses and ritzy shops were found, and all jeepney routes began and ended. A business address in Colon once meant that your restaurant, shop, or office was in the very heart of the capital, but other commercial centers have edged out Colon’s prestige. Today, Colon is usually so crowded it has become off-limits to most jeepneys. Shoe and watch repair stalls stand alongside an eclectic mix of hardware, machine, electrical, and noodle shops.

Mactan Island

For many visitors, Cebu means handcrafted guitars and ukuleles made of soft jackfruit wood. The guitar-making industry is centered on Mactan Island, just offshore from Cebu City. Visitors can watch the local craftsmen at work or be entertained by a quality-control expert trying out a freshly completed guitar.

Mactan is most famous for Magellan’s Marker, which was erected in 1886 where he was slain on the island’s shore. The Lapu Lapu Monument stands just a lance’s throw away. The latter portrays the Mactan chieftain with his kampilan (a machete-like weapon) raised above his head, ready to strike, although his back is diplomatically turned to the old foe Magellan’s marker. On April 27 every year, history comes to life at the Kadaugan sa Mactan Festival with the re-enactment of Magellan’s fatal encounter with Lapu Lapu.

Moalboal, three hours southwest of Cebu City, is one of the area’s renowned dive spots. Blessed with three marine reserves – Tonggo Island, Ronda Island, and Pescador Island – the area teems with corals, fish, and, frequently, dolphins and whale sharks. Divers can ply the waters year-round, and beginners can explore in the friendlier waters.

The diving legacy has made Moalboal a magnet for long-stay expatriates, as the town has remained smaller and calmer than Boracay or Alona Beach in Bohol. At least a dozen dive shops operate in Moalboal, many run by Germans or Koreans in honor of the clientele’s nationalities ( www.dive-moalboal.com ).

The hub of activity around Moalboal is Panagsama Beach, which is a dense collection of restaurants, dive shops, and lodgings. A huge typhoon washed the beach away in 1984, but it has recovered much of its past glory. The adjacent White Beach is an alternative, with its quiet, expansive stretches of sand that invite sunbathers and strollers to visit. Everything shuts down here earlier, however, so check with your resort beforehand if you need anything after 7pm.

Read more about scuba diving in the Philippines…

Chocolate Hills, Bohol Island

Bohol, the roughly circular, mid-sized island next door to better-known Cebu, has one stand-out attraction. Northeast of the capital, Tagbilaran, a range of small hills – formed by limestone, shale, and sandstone, in an area once covered by ocean – rise 30 meters (100ft) above the flat terrain to form a unique, and much-photographed, panorama. They are called the Chocolate Hills, for the confectionery-like spectacle they present in summer, when their sparse grass cover turns dry and brown. Two of the highest hills have been developed, offering a hostel, restaurant, swimming pool, and observation deck. Buses from Tagbilaran take two-and-a-half hours.

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Traveller's Guide To Visayas, Philippines

While Visayas seems small compared to its neighboring island groups —namely Luzon and Mindanao—this island group should not be underestimated. One of its small, scattered islands witnessed an important historical event, and the Visayas Region is also home to a number of pristine, white sand beaches.

Brief history and culture.

According to historical sources, the word Visayas derives from the term Sri Vijaya , which was an ancient empire that settled in Panay Island during the 9th century AD. Historical accounts mention that the Visayans, residents of the Visayas Region, who we know today, descended from Malay migrants who had to move to Panay due to the declining Sri Vijaya Empire. The name is said to be in remembrance of one of the most powerful influences in Southeast Asia in early times.

The Visayas Region is divided into three non-administrative sub-regions: Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, and Western Visayas. The region also has seven islands: Cebu, Bohol, Leyte, Masbate, Negros, Panay, and Samar — all of which have hidden gems to offer! From the biggest and most popular cultural/religious events in the country such as Ati-Atihan Festival , to delicious native delicacies like dried mangoes and white sand, unspoiled beaches, Visayas provides a lot of bucket list destinations to local and foreign travelers.

While the inhabitants’ languages may sound similar, and the languages are viewed as one macro language, there are differences among them. Those living in Western Visayas speak in Ilonggo or Hiligaynon, whereas people residing in Central Visayas are fluent in the Cebuano language. Inhabitants of Eastern Visayas speak Waray, while the rest speak other languages such as Aklanon or Capiznon, for instance. You’ll seldom hear residents speak in Tagalog or Filipino , as they only use or learn about the language in school, according to most locals.

Natural features and climate

The Central Visayas Region, which consists of Bohol, Cebu, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor, is mostly characterized by highlands with the exception of Bohol province. In the Eastern part, the islands of Samar, Leyte, and Biliran generally have flat terrains, and mountainous areas are mostly found within Samar and Leyte. As for Western Visayas, home to Panay Island, Guimaras, and Negros Occidental, its topography has wide stretches of coastal lowlands and rivers.

The Philippines generally has only two seasons: dry and wet. If you’re considering going island hopping in the Visayas Region, it’s advisable to go there during the summer months from March to May, as there’s a low chance of precipitation within the area.

Must-see destinations in Visayas

Below, we round up five destinations that should be in every traveler’s bucket list if he or she wants to visit the island group of Visayas:

For a nature lover’s perfect getaway, Bohol is the ideal destination in the Visayas Region. Find lush landscapes and the amazing Chocolate Hills (which turn chocolatey brown in color during the summer), experience eating a meal on a river cruise in Loboc, and see the furry, small creatures called the Philippine Tarsiers , which are considered endemic to the country.

Known as the province where the oldest city of the Philippines is found, the island of Cebu offers stunning views, land and sea adventures, and the grand festival of Sinulog , celebrated every third week of January each year. Apart from immersing yourself in nature and having the chance to see whale sharks on the island, Cebu also plays an important role in Philippine history; it is where the Battle of Mactan was held and the first successful resistance to Spanish colorization was recorded.

Boracay Island in Aklan

Part of the country’s pride comes from the island group of Visayas’ world-famous Boracay Island, which was hailed as the best island of 2017 ! Popular to tourists for its white, fine sand beaches and crystal clear waters, this island is the best location for a variety of water sports, adventure activities that seem endless, and late-night island parties. Of course, you shouldn’t skip the food trip, where you can taste freshwater seafood. Siquijor Island

Lagoon with white sand in Siquijor, Island

If you’re in search of pristine beaches and natural wonders that offer unique experiences, then Siquijor Island is the place to be! While it’s infamously known for dark myths (they say you can find voodoo doctors here), this remote island will satisfy your wanderlust, as it provides the perfect place to relax, unwind, and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Negros Occidental

Known as the country’s Sugar Capital because it’s mainly responsible for sugar production in the Philippines, the province of Negros Occidental offers a lot of nature spots for adventure seekers and honeymooners. These include the beaches of Sipalay, the Ruins in Bacolod, and popular waterfalls such as the romantic Casaroro Falls. You will definitely catch the love charm when visiting this island!

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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A Solo Backpacking Guide to Central Visayas, Philippines 5D4N

Have you been to the Central Visayas region ? This blog highlights the things I did, and the places I visited when I traveled around the Central Visayas region. This guide will be all about my Central Visayas solo backpacking guide.

Table of Contents

About Central Visayas

The Central Visayas region is in the central part of the Philippines. It is between the islands of Luzon and Mindanao. Needless to say, Central Visayas consists of four island provinces. Negros Oriental, Bohol, Cebu, and Siquijor . With that, I decided to go solo backpacking in the Central Visayas region . Upon reading this blog, you will get to learn more about the Central Visayas region. This is a solo backpacking guide to Central Visayas!

Rubys Place: Boho-themed Staycation in Cavite

Mentioning the four islands of Central Visayas, they must be your top destinations. The vast arrays of lush green forest plants and the stunning landscapes of the mountains. In addition, they are home to the best white-sand beaches. Moreover, here , you can try mouthwatering local and exotic food. You can also get to meet hospitable people. These reasons make the Central Visayas region fit your bucket list!!!

Not to mention, there are a lot of things to see and do around the Central Visayas region. You can go hiking and go swimming with sea turtles. You can also visit historical places, walk around the cities, and talk to the locals.

My Central Visayas Solo Backpacking Story

This is my first time traveling solo in the Visayas region. A year ago before my trip, I booked a flight to Dumaguete to explore the beauty of the island.

At first, it wasn’t my plan to visit the other islands. But, the mere fact that the other islands are near Dumaguete! Given that opportunity, I eventually decided to visit the other islands. I planned to visit Siquijor and Bohol. I decided to go solo backpacking in the Central Visayas. Although, Cebu was part of the itinerary, unfortunately, I couldn’t make it for some reason. Oh, I have already visited Cebu twice. I’ll have another itinerary for this.

I was able to stay in the region for 5 days and 4 nights although I needed to go back to Manila on my 5th day in the morning. Thus , I was able to explore the island and get to know more of it for 4 days.

5D4N Central Visayas Itinerary

Entry Point: Dumaguete
Exit Point: Bohol

Day 1: Dumaguete

Dumaguete was the first stop of my solo backpacking in the Central Visayas. Dumaguete is a tiny busy city that is jam-packed with people; either locals or tourists. The city looks stunning with its century-old ancient houses and buildings around it. In fact, it makes the city look interesting and historical at the same time.

I observed that the place didn’t seem to bother with the time that has gone from the past through the present. Also, I enjoyed talking with the locals, they were all friendly and they would even smile at you all the time. I felt safe in the city. Known as the “City of Gentle People” and referred to as “a university city” , Dumaguete is one of the best places to visit! Since I only had a day to explore the city, these are the only places that I visited and the things I did:

St. Catherine Of Alexandria Cathedral

It is a historic church located in the city of Dumaguete facing Rizal Park. The church was originally constructed from 1754 to 1776. Yet, people reconstructed it in 1885 and the present facade extended in 1936. You may also call it, Dumaguete Cathedral.

Campanario de Dumaguete Bell Tower

You can see this watchtower because it is right near the church. One fact about it is, that this bell tower has been part of Dumaguete’s history for centuries.

Silliman University

This is one of the oldest universities in the country. In fact, this is one of the most popular landmarks in Dumaguete.

Rizal Boulevard

This is where you can find different kinds of restaurants in this area. As a matter of fact, the best place where you go on a food trip. As a matter of fact, people love to go here. Therefore, you can see a lot of food stalls where you can different kinds of food at very affordable prices.

Chapters Cafe

You may realize that Chapters Cafe is one of the most popular cafes in the city. Due to its creative interior and exterior design, it seems to be very appealing and makes you go and stay inside. The place is definitely an Instagrammable spot!

Watch the Sandurot Festival

Funny thing when I arrived in Dumaguete, it was around September. To my surprise, they were celebrating their annual festival. That is the Sandurot Festival . I was able to witness how they celebrated it, I watched the parade and talked with the locals. I wasn’t very familiar with their festival until I saw it! Surprisingly, it was fun and amazing to watch!

Where to stay in Dumaguete?

Mahogany Upland Resort : The Magohany Upland Resort is such a good place to relax. Certainly, you will love the serenity of the place. In fact, it is just 30 minutes away from the city.

Day 2: Siquijor Island

Siquijor Island is the third smallest island in the Philippines. In spite of that, it doesn’t change the fact that this magical island has a lot of beautiful places to visit! Historically speaking, this island used to be called Isla De Fuego or “Island of Fire” by the Spaniards during the Spanish era.

Places to Visit in Siquijor

Welcome to Siquijor Sign
Saint Francis De Assisi Church
I LOVE SIQUIJOR Sign
Paliton Beach
Enchanted Old Balete Tree
San Isidro Old Church
San Isidro Convent
Cambugahay Falls
Man-made Forest
Salagdoong Beach Resort
Hapitanan Cafe and Restaurant

How to get to Siquijor from Dumaguete?

From Dumaguete port, take the Montenegro Ferry which only costs Php140 per head. But, if you want to arrive in Siquijor right away, you can take Ocean Jet (fast craft) which costs Php 250 per head.

Terminal Fee: Php 25

Balituk: A Haven Place to Stay in Baler, Aurora

Day 3: Bohol Countryside Tour

There are more than enough reasons to make this place part of your bucket list! Its pristine beaches and hospitable locals. More to that, its a vast array of scenic views and the untouched beauty of nature.

Bohol was my last stop after conquering the Central Visayas region and I decided to stay here for two days! I decided to rent a tricycle for the countryside tour. I didn’t get to visit all the places because I decided to spend a long time in each place.

Places to Visit in Bohol Island

Chocolate Hills
Tarsier Conservation Center
Bilar Man-made Forest
Baclayon Church
Souvenir Shop

Day 4: Panglao Tour

I spent my last day touring around the island of Panglao. I visited some of the most popular tourist destinations! This time around, I rented a habal – habal (a motorcycle with a driver). In comparison, it was much cheaper than I expected compared to a rented tricycle.

Places to Visit in Panglao

Hinagdanan Cave
Bohol Bee Farm
Dumaluan Beach
Panglao Church

How to get to Bohol from Siquijor Island?

There are two ferry companies operating from Larena port, the Oceanjet (fast craft) and Lite Shipping Corporation. Oceanjet has trips every day leaving at 12:30 PM. As a matter of fact, it takes two hours to get to Tagbilaran port. Therefore, the ferry arrives around 02:30 PM.

Yet, Lite Ferry only operates on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday which departs at 7:00 PM. It usually takes 4 hours to get to Tagbilaran port.

TAKE NOTE : Purchasing the ticket on the same day of departure is not highly recommended. It gets sold out fast.

Day 5: Back to Manila

In 4 days, I was able to visit the three islands of Central Visayas. Therefore , I was glad that I was able to get to know more about the places as well as the people. It was really fulfilling and truly a dream come true to me!

Among the three islands that I visited, I couldn’t say that I’ve got the most favorite one. The fact that each island has its own charm, you get to appreciate every little thing about it. Thus, why not try solo backpacking in the Central Visayas region, too?

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A travel blogger in the Philippines and a K-pop enthusiast, Ara Patria (The Adventuress) pursues her passion and love for traveling. She’s been blogging for years, where she writes about her own travel experiences and promotes the wonders of the Philippines. Not only does she promote the beauty of her country, but she also focuses on promoting sustainable tourism. She dreams of traveling the world and inspiring other people through her own written works and captured moments with her camera.

The Adventuress is a travel blogger with a purpose. She aims to inspire other people through her personal experiences, stories, and lenses. Outside her blogging world, she is an education, an SEO specialist, and TEFL/TESOL certified.

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18 thoughts on “ A Solo Backpacking Guide to Central Visayas, Philippines 5D4N ”

Traveling is fun but without backpack one cannot even think of planning a trip to some place.

Thanks for sharing.

thank you for sharing. This motivates me to go travel there!

Your photos are super cute and visiting the area sounds really great. I always hear of Cebu but nothing else around it. I’m going to have to get there eventually.

I absolutely have to commemd you for traveling solo. I would love to visit various places around the world with that sort of confidence! This was such a fun and interesting read and I look forward to seeing morenof your trips im the future!

Awesome post, love the detail, this is a great itinerary for anyone looking to travel in the area. Also thats so cool you just happened to be there for the Sandurot Festival, very cool!

Traveling has always been fun for me and reading your post on solo backpacking makes it a lot more interesting. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience. Looking forward to reading more interesting articles from your blog.

It looks like you have covered so much and it inspires me to travel here too! Amazing photos!

Hi. May I know how did you rented for habal-habal in Panglao?

Thanks for your great solo-backpacking guide. I love how quirky Chapter’s Cafe looked, deffo one for Instagram. SIQUIJOR Island also looks like such an incredible place to visit. I love the bright tropical colors.

Chocolate Hills look so beautiful and the sight behind in the photo is simply worth beholding. Thanks for this detailed blog for a place I didn’t know about but will love to visit now.

Looks gorgeous!! Crazy the motorcycle with a driver was cheaper than a bike! But both ways sound wonderful for exploring. We haven’t made it to the Philippines yet, but it’s definitely up there and this is a helpful post!

Thanks for sharing your adventure. Siquijor May be small but the view looks fantastic.

I always love to visit historical places and cultural events and that would be the first thing if I visited this place. Siquijour Island looks stunning.

Ooh, we’ve always wanted to go to the Visayas! The Chapter Cafe looks so cute and colorful. The last time we were in the Philippines, we were only able to explore Luzon.

I LOVE reading stories from other solo female travelers and WOW – what an amazing place to visit! I especially love that you included Dumaguete Cathedral! I absolutely love the architecture and culture you wrote about here and — well — now I have to go!

Looks like an amazing travel. I was born and grew up in the Philippines but never had a chance to visit this place yet.

Nice article 🙂

thank you so much for dropping by! 🙂

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15 Awesome VISAYAS TOURIST SPOTS (Islands, beaches and nature)

While it’s true that both the islands of Luzon and Mindanao are much larger in size compared to Visayas, you simply cannot deny the fact that it is much richer in culture, history, and astonishing natural wonders!

The Visayan Group of Islands is composed of hundreds of smaller islands and seven (7) major islands including Bohol, Cebu, Leyte, Negros, Panay, and Samar. All of these majestic islands consist of astounding white-sand beaches, secret lagoons, and breathtaking landscapes. Oh, and I’m sure that you’ll love the world-class cuisine that Visayas has to offer and enjoy spectacular dishes like Lechon , Chicken Inasal, Kansi, Piaya, and a whole lot more.

On top of that, Visayas is also a must-visit destination if you want to learn more about the Philippines’ rich and colorful history. Visayas became the center of Christianity in the country because it is where Ferdinand Magellan first docked his ships, specifically in Mactan, Cebu. Aside from its culture and history, many tourists would also enjoy the impressive rise of Visayas as one of the country’s fastest-growing economies. The Queen City of the South, Cebu City itself, is already a tourism gem you shouldn’t miss when you get the chance to visit Visayas.

So, are you ready? Visayas sure has a lot in store for you! Go get your bags packed because we’ll be going on another exciting adventure as we discover and explore the 15 Best Tourist Spots in Visayas!

1. Boracay Island | Aklan

Of course, no one should ever miss the chance to visit one of the Philippines’ finest, Boracay Island itself! This extraordinary piece of paradise is located in Malay , Aklan, and is known all over the world as one of the most beautiful islands you can find. Boracay is home to pristine white sand beaches, nerve-wracking water activities, and most especially unforgettable nightlife experiences.

Due to Boracay Island’s extreme international popularity, there are already several world-class hotels, resorts, and restaurants scattered all around the island. You can also expect to meet lots of amazing people that came from different parts of the world. All in all, visiting Boracay Island will surely not disappoint, so make sure not to miss out!

READ THE BLOG POST: 15 Best Beachfront Resorts in Boracay

2. Islas de Gigantes | Iloilo

Up next, our second destination is no other than Islas de Gigantes or Gigantes Islands of Carles , Iloilo. This tropical wonder is a chain of ten (10) islands that is located in the northernmost part of Iloilo. It is said that visiting the whole of Islas de Gigantes will already take at least a day from your Visayas escapade, so plan your itinerary ahead of time!

Aside from stunning white sand beaches, awe-inspiring rock formations, and deliciously affordable seafood, you can also have the chance to climb and hike atop scenic spots where the 360° panoramic views are out of this world. Oh, and make sure to visit the breathtaking Tangke Lagoon and the famous long stretch of Bantigue’s Sandbar!

READ THE STORY: Pulupandan Island in Gigantes, Iloilo

3. Seco Island | Antique

Another must-visit tourist destination in Visayas is Seco Island of Tibiao , Antique. The name “Seco” means elbow for the locals, which amazingly depicts the shape of the island itself.

Seco Island is a popular destination for kitesurfing, swimming, beach bumming, and camping. It is also a beautiful and secluded place that is perfect for everyone who wants to cast themselves away from all the noise and stress of city life. Well, who wouldn’t want to just enjoy the rustling waves and gaze at the shimmering stars at night here at Seco Island, right?

READ THE FULL STORY: 20+ Best Tourist Spots in Antique

4. Biri Islands | Northern Samar

Biri Island is indeed one of the most beautiful and interesting places you can encounter in Visayas. It is famously known for its natural rock formations that are said to be formed by the endless crashing of waves coming from the Pacific Ocean and the San Bernardino Strait. The island consists of four (4) small rocky islands that each have its own distinct and interesting shapes.

Photo by Wikimedia CC

These rocky islands also create small natural pools where tourists can simply hop in and enjoy the stunning views. Trust me, aside from having a great time with nature, you’ll also love savoring the tropical paradise perfection of Northern Samar ’s one and only Biri Islands.

5. Panglao Island | Bohol

Well, surely this list wouldn’t be complete without including one of the Philippines’ finest beach destinations! I’m talking about Panglao Island, the precious gem of Bohol itself. Its pristine white-sand beach along with the world-class diving sites scattered around the island are surely something you wouldn’t want to miss. Oh, and a lot of tourists also claim that Panglao Island has one of the most beautiful sunsets in the Philippines. It is indeed something worth witnessing at least once in your life!

Aside from the truly amazing features of Panglao Island, it’s also the ideal jump-off location to visit other famous spots in Bohol like the Chocolate Hills, Hinagdanan Cave, and more!

READ THE BLOG POST: 1 5 Best Beaches in Bohol

6. Apo Island | Negros Oriental

Apo Island is a hidden gem worth visiting and exploring in Negros Oriental . It is a marine protected area that is best known all over the world for its diving and snorkeling sites. The island is home to over 650 known fish species and roughly about 450 corals. Well, it is indeed a haven for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts!

Photo by Dale de Vera on Unsplash

Aside from Apo Island’s rich and thriving biodiversity, it also offers a beautiful and relaxing experience for everyone. Its turquoise blue waters, white sands, and stunning rock formations are surely a scene you won’t forget. There are only two (2) available accommodations on Apo Island, but most tourists prefer to only spend a day trip here, so plan ahead!

7. Cambugahay Falls | Siquijor

Next up, the reason why Cambugahay Falls has become the favorite spot of many tourists in Siquijor is simply because of its beautiful multi-tiered levels filled with extraordinary blue waters! From a bird’s eye view, Cambugahay Falls features stunning scenery of its landscape’s whole beauty.

Credit: WowAbouts

You can easily lose track of time during your visit here because I’m sure that you’ll very much enjoy the peace and serenity brought by nature. The heavenly sound of cascading waters, the chirping of birds, and the rustling leaves of the trees will undoubtedly calm your mind.

READ THE BLOG POST: 12 Best Siquijor Tourist Spots

8. Kalanggaman Island | Leyte

Of course, we also shouldn’t miss the chance to visit Leyte’s pride itself, Kalanggaman Island. This stunning piece of paradise is famously known for its lengthy sandbars filled with white powdered sands. As you walk along these sandbars, you’ll have a chance to get a glimpse of the turquoise blue sea.

It is said that Kalanggaman Island got its name from the local word “Langgam”, which is a Visayan local term for “bird”. This is because the island resembles the shape of a bird when viewed from atop. If you want to spend the night here at Kalanggaman Island, the only option for you is to bring your own tents and set up camp. Well, it’d be truly worth it to gaze at the breathtaking stars here at night!

READ THE FULL STORY: Kalanggaman Island: Leyte’s Piece of Paradise

9. Malapascua Island | Cebu

Ah, the perfect destination to visit right after Leyte’s Kalanggaman Island is no other than Malapascua Island of Daanbantayan , Cebu. Lots of tourists claim that Malapascua Island is indeed one of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines which is known internationally for its world-class diving sites.

Photo by Malapascua Exotic Island Dive & Beach Resort

In fact, it is said to be the only place in the world where you can swim with thresher sharks on a daily basis! Aside from that, Malapascua Island also has a long white-sand beach surrounded by breathtaking blue waters that are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and beach bumming.

10. Taklong Island National Marine Reserve | Guimaras

Up next, I’d say that one of the most unique destinations on this list is the Taklong Island National Marine Reserve or TINMAR of Nueva Valencia , Guimaras . It is one of those places where you can clearly see the abundance of both flora and fauna with your naked eye.

This hidden treasure of nature is composed of 37 smaller islands featuring an all-in experience for everyone! You can opt to explore the island’s stunning caves, visit amazing rock formations, walk along its breathtaking sandbars, and more. Oh, and if you simply want to chill and relax, you can also rent a floating cottage where you can enjoy a delicious lunch and even swim in some shallow parts of the sea!

Ah, another interesting landmark to visit here at Taklong Island National Marine Reserve are the facilities managed by UP-Visayas. These will give you access to mind-blowing 360° panoramic views of the whole island! Trust me, this is easily one of the best things you shouldn’t miss.

READ THE FULL STORY: NATURE’S EYE RESORT: Commune with nature in Guimaras

11. Kawasan Falls | Cebu

Ah, yes. There it is! Another precious gem worth exploring in Visayas is the one and only Kawasan Falls of Cebu. This majestic waterfall consists of three (3) breathtaking cascades of water where tourists can enjoy swimming and diving all they want. The waters here are deemed to be cold and refreshing so don’t hesitate to hop on and take a quick swim! But hey, just be reminded that before you reach this beautiful paradise, you will need to prepare yourself for quite a challenge.

Photo by Andrew Haimerl (andrewnef) on Unsplash

Kawasan Falls is located at the foot of Mantalongon Mountain Range, which is about 1 kilometer away from Badian national road. Canyoneering is the best way to traverse the trails en route to Kawasan Falls, which is a popular outdoor trek that involves passing through a series of creeks, streams, and canyons. It requires a lot of walking, jumping, and even swimming so be ready! Don’t worry though, because once you reach Kawasan Falls, I’m sure that all the efforts and hardships will be worth it.

12. Manjuyod Sandbar | Negros Oriental

Certainly, this list wouldn’t be complete without including what is dubbed the “Maldives of the Philippines”, right? Yup! I’m talking about the famous attraction of Bais , Negros Oriental, the Manjuyod Sandbar. It is said that this magnificent strip of white sand stretches for seven (7) kilometers and is best seen during low tide season.

As you walk along this amazing sandbar, you’ll get the chance to admire the beautiful turquoise waters of Negros Oriental at its finest. You can also stay at one of the wooden houses built on the island which appear to be on stilts during the high tide season. All in all, there will surely be a wonderful escape waiting for you here at Manjuyod Sandbar!

13. Cuatro Islas | Leyte

Oh, another amazing attraction you shouldn’t miss in Leyte is the famous Cuatro Islas or Four Islands. This group of islands is best known for its picturesque landscapes filled with unspoiled waters, captivating rock formations, and hidden gems of culture. The four (4) islands are namely Apid, Digyo, Mahaba, and Himokilan. Each of these islands has its own stunning attraction which will surely highlight your island-hopping activities in Visayas!

Apid is known for its thriving fishing village and mat-weaving community. Digyo, the smallest one, is known to be the “Little Boracay” for its beautiful stretch of white sand beach. Mahaba, on the other hand, is known for its two (2) breathtaking white sand coastlines, which also contain a wonderful marine sanctuary. And lastly, Himokilan Island, the largest of them all, offers unforgettable activities such as cave explorations, mountain trekking, reef diving, snorkeling, and the popular Takobo Nursery Viewing. See? All of them are truly worth visiting!

14. Bantayan Island | Cebu

If the sight of powdery white sand beaches and beautiful turquoise waters is what fascinates you, then I suggest you visit one of Cebu’s finest jewels, the Bantayan Island. And not only that, but you will also have the chance to enjoy complete peace and serenity as you savor the tranquility of the island.

Credit: Sta. Fe Beach Club

Here, you will have all the time to go beach bumming, swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing all you want. Oh, and there’s more! If you prefer to enjoy adrenaline-pumping activities, then make sure to try out cliff diving, kayaking, and skydiving activities here at Bantayan Island!

READ THE BLOG POST: Top Beach Resorts in Bantayan, Cebu

15. Lakawon Island | Negros Occidental

Lastly, we will be heading to what is dubbed the “Boracay of Negros”. Known for its pristine white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, Lakawon Island is indeed an attraction you shouldn’t miss. It is a 13-hectare, banana-shaped island that features a hidden sandbar that only appears during the low tide seasons.

This sandbar allows people to walk along the magnificent waters as they enjoy the spectacular view of the island. And on top of that, Lakawon Island is less crowded compared to other island destinations in the country, making your stay very calm, serene, and relaxing. Which you truly deserve!

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5 Destinations in the Visayas Every Traveler Should Visit

The Visayan Islands in the central Philippines make up one of the country’s three major geographical divisions alongside the larger landmasses of Luzon and Mindanao. The region is comprised of six major islands—namely Cebu , Panay, Samar, Leyte , Bohol, and Negros—and hundreds of smaller islands alongside. The Visayas’ location in the heart of the Philippines has historically made it an important gateway to the rest of the archipelago and to the greater Southeast Asian region beyond.

As a tourist destination, the Visayas is primarily known for its profuse natural beauty. The region is home to some of the country’s best-known beaches, diving spots, waterfalls, coves, and much more. Visitors may also enjoy learning about the islands’ rich and colorful history. For instance, historical evidence suggests that the Malay people, one of the first groups of people to settle in the country, first landed in the Visayas. The island of Cebu is where the explorer Ferdinand Magellan made landfall on his transpacific voyage and is now widely hailed as the birthplace of Christianity in the Philippines .

If you’re planning to explore the Visayas on your next vacation, it might be challenging to figure out which parts of the region to visit first. Read on for five must-visit destinations that every traveler is sure to enjoy:

Malapascua Island, Cebu

Malapascua is a small island located in the northern part of Cebu Province that has made headlines in recent years as one of the best dive sites in the Philippines. Most notably, it’s the only place in the world where tourists can dive and swim with thresher sharks in their natural habitat. The promise of guaranteed encounters with these magnificent creatures brings thousands of tourists to Malapascua each year. The best part is that these encounters are sustainable and non-disruptive to local ecosystems, as the sharks visit the area naturally instead of having to be led there with food.

This isn’t to say, of course, that a one-of-a-kind diving experience is all Malapascua has to offer. Non-divers can enjoy a plethora of enjoyable activities on and around the island, such as snorkeling, swimming, exploring, and simply lounging on the fine white sand. Accommodations on the island range from beachfront hotels to dive resorts to quaint hostels and guesthouses. Travelers also have the option of booking hotels in Cebu City proper and taking day trips to the island.

Danjugan Island, Negros Occidental

Located around 3 kilometers off the coast of Negros Occidental, the 43-hectare Danjugan Island is not a resort. Rather, it’s a protected wildlife sanctuary that is managed privately by the Philippine Reef and Rainforest Conservation Foundation, Inc. (PRRCFI). Fishing and other environmentally invasive activities are strictly prohibited on and around the island. The number of visitors to Danjugan is also carefully controlled by the island’s management, not only to preserve the tranquil atmosphere but also to ensure a top-quality experience for all guests.

Danjugan Island is a true biodiversity hotspot, surrounded by thriving coral reefs, beds of sea grass, and majestic rock formations. Divers and snorkelers can see hundreds of different species of fish, myriad corals, giant clams, and sea turtles. The island proper is also covered nearly from end to end in the dense rainforest that’s home to 10 species of bats, 72 bird species, and many more animals besides.

Boracay Island, Aklan

Beloved by beach bums worldwide for its pristine white sands and crystalline waters, the island of Boracay in Aklan Province has long been hailed as one of the Philippines’ most beautiful beaches. Though Boracay’s breathtaking sunsets and picturesque views are more than enough reasons to visit the island and stay for at least a few days, adventure-seekers will also find themselves with no end of enjoyable activities to try. Whether your pleasure is watersports, cliff diving, island hopping, food crawls, or pumping nightlife, there’s something for every kind of visitor to enjoy on Boracay’s shores.

Bacolod City, Negros Occidental

There are two major reasons that Bacolod City is known affectionately nationwide as the City of Smiles. The first is that it’s home to the Masskara Festival, one of the Philippines’ best-known and most colorful festivals. The second is that the local population is known for being exceptionally warm, friendly, and welcoming to visitors. Spend a few days exploring the city’s many historical and cultural sites, partaking of its delectable cuisine, or simply chatting up with people you meet, and you’ll surely find yourself with no end of reasons to smile. Foodies definitely won’t want to miss out on authentic chicken inasal, possibly the most iconic Negrense dish.

Siquijor Island

For years, Siquijor Island has seemed shrouded in mystery to outsiders, known predominantly as a place brimming with magic, mystery, and supernatural phenomena. Adventurous travelers, however, will find Siquijor full of rich culture and unspoiled natural sights. You’ll doubtless need more than one visit to explore the island’s many beaches, caves, and waterfalls. The Cambugahay Falls, a unique three-tier waterfall that drops down into a swimming hole locally known as Lazi Bay, is a must-see attraction.

There you have it, lovelies. The above are just a few of the most memorable destinations that every visitor to the Visayas should see at least once. They’re only scratching the surface of what this wonderful region has the offer, so don’t hesitate to venture off the beaten path and discover more of its wonders for yourself.

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Travel Guide: Capiz

The province of Capiz in Panay Island is a rising eco-tourism destination that has a lot to offer for different types of travelers. History buffs can visit sites of historic and religious interest, nature-trippers can venture out and explore the off-the-beaten natural tourist spots like islands and waterfalls, while culture buffs can enjoy the province’s rich handicrafts.

Roxas City, the capital of Capiz is known as the seafood capital of the country, and one of the best places for foodies. From fresh steamed oysters to baked scallops drowning in garlic and butter to jumbo tiger prawns to crabs cooked in chili sauce, Roxas City offers the freshest and most affordable seafood and shellfish. Even if your itinerary involves visiting different sites, you’ll probably find yourself eating your way around the province.

Table of Contents

Where exactly is Capiz?

Capiz is located in the Western Visayas region at the northeastern portion of the Panay Island, bordering Aklan and Antique to the west, and Iloilo to the South. Capiz faces the Sibuyan Sea to the North.

The province gets its name from capiz shells or placuna placenta , a marine mollusk similar to scallops. Though the meat is edible, it’s valued more for its translucent glass-like shell, which is used in many decorative household items. Capiz windows are an architectural design that can be found in many old Philippine buildings and houses.

How to get to Capiz

Travel time to Roxas City via Plane (Cebu Pacific & PAL) from Manila (3 flights daily) is 45 minutes. Roxas City is also accessible via 2GO Ro-Ro from Batangas (12 hours). By bus or private car, it is approximately 2 hours from Iloilo and 4 hours to Boracay Island by land.

Getting around

Buses, jeepneys, public utility vehicles (PUVs) ply the main streets and smaller roads between the different towns in Capiz. The province has a well-developed system of road networks connecting highways. Within the city, tricycles are the most common mode of transport.

Yellow tourist tricycles with fixed rates are being introduced for those who want to hire a ride for the day around the main tourist sights. For hassle-free tours around Capiz and the rest of Panay Island, contact Las Islas Travel & Tours .

What to do in Capiz

Go on a seafood diet.

Roxas City in Capiz is known as the “center of seafood trip tourism” in the country and food-tripping should be at the top of your list of things to do here. There are a number of resorts and restaurants facing Baybay Beach, where you can get your fill of eat-all-you-can oysters, shrimps, crabs, shellfish, prawns, managat , and other seafood delights.

One seasonal delicacy unique to Capiz is diwal (angelwing clams), a type of shellfish that contains succulent and sweet tasting meat described as superior to oyster. Scallops are also a specialty in the whole province.

Take a Heritage Walk around Roxas City

If you’re just in the Roxas City proper, there are lots of heritage sites all within walking distance from each other. Stop first by Ang Panublion (a Hiligaynon term meaning “heritage”), a museum that was converted from an old water tank. The museum managed by memorabilia of prominent personalities of Roxas City, religious icons, artifacts and artworks.

Here, you can get a handy Heritage Walk Pack, a DIY walking guide to all the historic spots in the city. The suggested stops include:

Ang Panublion Museum
President Manuel A. Roxas Monument
Birthplace of President Manuel A. Roxas
The Roxas City Bandstand
Immaculate Concepcion Metropolitan Cathedral
Roxas City Fountain
Capiz Bridge
Panay River
Jose Rizal Monument
Capiz Provincial Capitol

Rates: No entrance fee for the Panublion Museum. The museum is open Mondays to Saturday 9am – 6pm. Viewing schedule outside regular museum hours may be arranged with the staff. Email: [email protected]

Relax by the beach

Baybay Beach is just three kilometers away from the Roxas City proper. During the day, locals head to this black-sand beach to go swimming, skimboarding or boating.

At night, locals like to hang out at the plaza and restaurants found along this strip of beach. You can get a nice view overlooking the coast from Culasi Point, a lighthouse reachable by a 20-minute hike from Culasi Port.

READ MORE: Baybay Beach & Grand Gazebo in Capiz

Visit the Santa Monica Church & Pan-ay Bell

Built in 1774, the lovely Santa Monica Church in Panay, Capiz is one of the oldest churches in the country. The church, which was declared a national landmark by the National Historical Institute of the Philippines, is also home to the largest Catholic Church bell in its five-story belfry.

The Panay Bell was said to be cast from 70 sacks of coins contributed by townsfolk and is weighs an astounding 10.4 tons. The bell, which measures 7 feet in diameter and has a height of 5 feet, is surrounded by eight smaller bells.

Rates: No entrance fee to visit the Santa Monica Church and Panay Bell. A token or tip for the guide / donation for the church is voluntary. Look for Randy Glimer at the Museo de Santa Monica right next to the church.

Take a relaxing river cruise

Capiz offers river cruises aboard bamboo raft huts through the mangrove-rich forests of the historic Panay River. There are currently three spots around Roxas City where river cruises are offered:

The Palina Greenbelt River Tour
Cadimahan Libotong River Cruise
Culajao Mangrove Eco-Park

What makes the river tours unique is that you can choose what kind of experience you want. Get serenaded by local musicians with Capisnon folk songs, indulge in a seafood lunch, learn more about the local plants, try your hand at age-old fishing methods, or even get a traditional massage ( hilot ) or spa foot massage/ manicure/pedicure treatment while cruising down the river.

Cadimahan River Tour is located in Sitio Lawis, Baybay, Roxas City and is oprated by the Lawis Baybay Small Fisherfolk Association of Roxas City (LABSFAR). River tour starts at 8am – 4 pm. The 2-hour river tour costs P750 to P1,800 depending on the size of the raft. Some small rafts are good for 10 people, while the other rafts can fit as many as 40-50 pax. Arrange for additional services beforehand like food or bring trained spa therapists on board. Foot spa P150, Traditional Filipino Massage P300 (whole body). For more information, contact: 0907-2865835 (Shiela), 0910-2033229 (Jho)

Hike to waterfalls

The province of Capiz is home to many hidden and secluded waterfalls, including the scenic Malinamon Falls. This wide waterfall that cascades over a rocky riverbed is only one of 7 discovered waterfalls located inside Camp Peralta, a military reservation in Jamindan, Capiz. With an area of 33,000 hectares of unspoiled forests, mountain trek ranges, bike trails and camping sites, Camp Peralta is being eyed as an eco-tourism destination in the province.

For security purposes, pre-arrangements (at least one week) need to be made through the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (contact details below) for all potential visitors.

Visit caves and natural springs

Suhot Cave and Spring in Dumalag, Capiz is a popular tourist spot for locals who want to go on weekend picnics. The cave boasts of a series of interconnected caverns of different sizes, while a pool of clear water fed by a spring from within the cave can be found right by the entrance.

A less explored cave with impressive stalactites and stalagmites is Lahab Cave, which can be reached by a scenic 30-45 minute trek through rice fields and bamboo forests from Suhot Cave.

Buy crabs in Pontevedra

Once a popular trading post because of its location near the river, the town of Pontevedra remains to be the mud crab capital of Capiz.

According to vendors, they supply fresh seafood daily to popular tourist destinations in nearby province like Iloilo and Boracay.

Go on a pilgrimage to religious sites

In 1569, Capiz became the second Spanish settlement in the country (after Cebu). As a testament to their pre-Hispanic and colonial past, you can find many sites of religious devotion all around the province.

The Sacred Heart of Jesus Shrine is a giant statue of Jesus Christ located on a hilltop in Lawaan, Roxas City. Constructed just this 2015, the 132-foot (40 m) monument (102 ft mounted on a 30 ft.-high pedestal) is said to be the tallest of its kind in the Philippines.

Other sites of religious pilgrimage include the Agtalin Shrine in the town of Pilar, where an 80-foot tall statue of the Virgin Mary stands majestically atop a hill and the Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto Meditation Hills in Sitio Bangkal, Brgy. Maninang, Sapian, a grotto and cross on top of a hill where visitors can get a lovely view of the rolling hills and mountain ranges below.

Go island-hopping

If you have more time to spare, you can go island hopping to secluded islands like Olotayan Island , a 53-hectare island blessed with white sand beach and serene shores. Visible from the shoreline of Baybay Beach is Mantalinga Island, said to be a good diving spot and rotunda for sailboats as well as kayaks during races.

For hassle-free island hopping trips, contact Las Islas Travel & Tours , a travel agency that organizes tours all over Panay Island. They can also arrange day trips and overnight tours to Islas de Gigantes located off the shore of Carles and Estancia in Northern Iloilo, but which is geographically closer and more accessible through Roxas City. Travel time to Gigantes Islands is 3 – 4 hours from Iloilo City, while only 1 hour and 45 minutes from Roxas City.

Where to stay in Capiz

There are numerous hotels all around Capiz, particularly Roxas City. During different trips to the province, I’ve had the chance to stay in several hotels.

Roxas President’s Inn is an elegant Spanish-Filipino hotel where each room is named after a past president. This hotel, which is located in the heart of the city center, is good for business travelers.

Urban Manor Hotel is a hotel located right across the public transportation terminal and about 10-15 minutes drive from from the airport. Interiors are a very modern, while rooms are basic but clean and comfortable.

Hotel Veronica is one of the newer hotels in the city, located near Robinson’s Place and the emerging business district of Pueblo de Panay. Good for business and leisure travelers, or those who want to enjoy some night life in the city.

Grand Gazebo Inn & Dormitel is a resort that offers private and dorm rooms, located right across Baybay Beach and the strip of barbecue grill/restaurants there. Good choice for those who want to be near the beach.

Maribert Inland Resort is a resort situated among rice fields with a huge swimming pool with its own poolside bar. Good for special family or business events, conventions or R & R activities.

Here’s a more detailed directory guide of Where to Stay in Capiz with addresses and contact numbers for reference.

What / where to eat in Capiz

You won’t run out of places to eat in Capiz. Popular establishments like Bitoy’s Balay Barbekyuhan, RML Manokan House and Roxas People’s Park & Seafood Plaza can be found along the beachfront and are good places to get freshly cooked seafood. Resorts like San Antonio Resort, Maribert Inland Resort and Espacio Verde serve good a more upscale and unique take on seafood and Filipino food.

In the city proper, be sure to check out Spanggo, a homegrown cafe that serves Spanish-Ilonggo cuisine. At night, head to Cafe Terraza, the first restaurant in the city to offer a scenic hilltop dining experience.

Diwal or angel wing clams is one of the prized shellfish specialties in Capiz. Locals say that the meat is sweet and succulent with a taste superior to oysters and mussels and a more delicate texture. Another unique delicacy I’ve found in Capiz is puyoy or grilled eel.

What to buy in Capiz

Capiz gets its name from capiz shells, which are widely used to make decorative items like chandeliers and lampshades, windowpanes and traditional Christmas lanterns. Be sure to take home capiz products from Kapis Atbp., a local business in Brgy. Banica, Roxas City. For inquiries, contact: (036) 6210482.

Mardebb Gift & Souvenir Shop sells native souvenirs and gift items made of wood and shells, like keychains, ref magnets, pencil holders, native bags and customized souvenirs. For dried and bottled food products and pastries, visit Spanggo Cafe & Pasalubong Center, where you can buy canned seafood, Kapis Aligue, Buko pie and cookies.

Once known for celebrating the Aswang Festival (a Halloween-like celebration which featured ghouls and witches from local folklore), Capiz aims to shed that image and has shifted its festivals to celebrate the vibrant seafood industry and other religious commemorations.

The CAPIZtahan is a grand festival which celebrates the province’s abundant seafood while the Sinadya sa Halaran (which means “joy in sharing and thanksgiving”) is celebrated for the patroness of Roxas City, Our Lady of Immaculate Conception, and highlights the festivals of various towns.

Many thanks to the Capiz Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office and Las Islas Travel & Tours for showing us the beauty of Capiz! For inquiries and tours, contact:

Capiz Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office

Address: 3/F, Provincial Capitol, 5800 Roxas City
Facebook: Capiz Tourism and Cultural Affairs
Tel. (036) 621-0042 local 133, 221
Email: [email protected]

Las Islas Travel & Tours

Address: Pueblo de Panay, Roxas, Capiz, Philippines
Facebook: Las Islas Travel & Tours
Instagram: @LasIslasTravelandTours
Email: [email protected]

Roxas City, Capiz Travel Guide: Itinerary, Places to Stay, Things to do and More

Budget travel guide to roxas city for first-time travelers.

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Travel Guide: Roxas City, Capiz Itinerary, Places to Stay, Things to do, and More

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C raving for some seafood right now? If yes, it’s about time for you to plan your visit to the Seafood Capital of the Philippines and have your cravings fixed, alongside with other exciting activities and must-see attractions in Roxas City, Capiz.

Capiz Provincial Capitol Roxas City, Capiz Travel Guide

Roxas City is located in Western Visayas and 3 hours away from Iloilo. So if you’re planning a side trip in nearby cities, drop by at Roxas for a one-of-a-kind adventure.

Capiz is known for producing home decorations like lampshades, Windows, and trays through the use of shells. Aside from the locals’ creativity – Roxas City – has been a recipient of the Cleanest and Greenest Component City in Western Visayas Award in the Gawad Pangulo sa Kapaligiran (GPK) Cleanliness and Environmental contest. Not only that, the Department of Health gave the city the Red Orchid Award for being “100 percent tobacco-free.”

There are plenty of amazing beaches and historical landmarks here in Roxas. In this Roxas City Capiz Travel Guide, we have rounded up some amazing things to see and do, recommended hotels to stay, the best restaurants, and a sample itinerary to make your Roxas trip memorable.

Capiz is the Philippines Seafood Capital

In this Travel Guide to Roxas City Blog, we listed some tips on how you can make your own DIY trip to Roxas City in Capiz. We also included Roxas City Itinerary, Things to do and see, how to get there, and more.

Best time to visit Roxas City

A smart traveler must know when’s the best time to visit a specific place. It’s either to know what kind of attire to bring and what types of activities can they enjoy during that time. So here in Roxas, the best time to visit would be during Summer, which starts from March to April – as visitors can get the perfect weather to enjoy island hopping and visit some churches in the city.

How to get there

From Manila

Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific serve flights to Roxas City from Manila. Travel time going to Roxas City is approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour by plane.

Traveling to Roxas city by boat from Manila takes around 16 hours, while the Roll-on, Roll-off (RORO) buses from Manila take about 14 hours.

It takes approximately 3 hours by bus from Iloilo City and 3 hours to Caticlan, Malay, and Aklan.

From Iloilo City

From Iloilo City, it will take around 2-3 hours by bus or private vehicle. Two airlines operate in Roxas City Airport with 3 flights plying to and from Manila and one flight from Roxas to Cebu, and vice versa. A passenger ship operating in Culasi Port, Roxas City, plies Manila and Capiz twice a week. Also available are ferryboats traveling from Romblon, Masbate, and Roll-on Roll-off (RORO) Buses plying through Capiz.

Getting Around

Touring around Roxas City is hassle-free because of the number of tricycles and jeepneys in the area. Fare only costs 8 pesos per person.

Also, what’s amazing about Roxas City, is that tourist attractions are just 5 to 10 minutes away from each other.

Weather in Capiz

Mostly dry from December to May and wet from June to November. The temperature is coolest from October to February and hottest from March to May.

Learn some local lingo

The language spoken by the locals in Roxas City are Capiznon and Hiligaynon. Here are some basic phrases that you might use when roaming around the city.

Good Day: Maayong Adlaw
Good morning: Maayong aga
Yes/no: Huo / Indi
Please/Thanks: Palihug / Salamat (gid)
How much: Tag-pila

Places to Stay in Roxas City

Hotel veronica.

Have an amazing stay at Roxas City by staying at one of their luxury hotels – the Hotel Veronica, located at Pueblo de Panay. The hotel speaks of sophistication, as seen in their rooms and suites. Each room has a coffee and tea-making facility with complimentary coffee, a refrigerator, a cable television, a bathroom with a hot and cold shower, and a safety deposit box.

They even have an in-house restaurant called “Fiesta,” famous for its indoor and al fresco dining. Fiesta serves local dishes to international ones too. Some of their bestsellers are Seafood Pasta, Kalderetang Kambing, and steaks. If you want to have a cup of coffee, you can visit their Café Pueblo.

San Antonio Resort

Stay in a serene environment while in Roxas City and book your stay at San Antonio Resort. It boasts 50 beautifully designed rooms, equipped with a Cable TV, telephone, and bathroom with hot and cold wáter. They even have family rooms perfect for those who travel in big groups. The hotel also has modern amenities that guests can enjoy.

Also, San Antonio Resort houses 5 restaurants: the Port Lago restaurant, famous for its pizzas and pasta; the Kainan Village, an open-air food stall; and The Pool Bar for a snack and light meals and their newly opened Café Felisa for various dining options.

Islands Hotel

Here’s a budget hotel you’re going to love. Islands Hotel, which operated last 2016, is located at Sacred Heart of Jesus Ave. Pueblo de Panay.

Islands Hotel has 35 guestrooms and suites and is equipped with double beds or a matrimonial bed. They have facilities perfect for those who travel for business or for leisure.

Urban Manor Hotel

This hotel is located at the Sacred Heart of Jesus Avenue and is conveniently located near the airport.

Its interior evokes a blend of a hip mentality, providing a distinctive-fun and memorable experience for modern travelers. Their 21 rooms are divided into 5 family rooms, 2 suite rooms, 2 junior suite rooms, 3 matrimonial rooms, and 9 superior rooms. They even have a fast internet connection all over the hotel. Room rates start at P 1,200 up to 1,800.

Roxas Midtown Hotel

Get your money’s worth by staying at Roxas Midtown Hotel. It is conveniently located at the city’s major tourist attractions and other establishments like the Immaculate Concepcion Cathedral, the Capiz Provincial Capitol, Panubli-on Museum, and the downtown city proper.

They offer three types of rooms: Suite, Junior Executive, and Junior Suite. Their rooms are cozy, and the hotel houses modern facilities guests can enjoy.

From Luxury Hotels to Budget Accommodations in Roxas City, Agoda has the best hotel deals and discounts for a preferred hotel room.

Best Places to Eat in Roxas City

Café terraza.

What’s a great way to dine in Roxas than eating at Café Terraza. Its location overlooks the scenic Pueblo de Panay Township. They have open cottages where you can sit and dine while enjoying the panoramic view of the progressive City. Café Terraza is famous for serving Asian and Western cuisine, perfect for discerning palates.

Harry’s Seafood Palutuan

Treat yourselves to the best-cooked seafood here at Harry’s Seafood Palutan. They’ve created a wonderful twist on their seafood, making this restaurant a go-to place for tourists in Roxas.

Almax Grill and Restaurant

This is Roxas City’s version of Dampa, wherein you can choose what seafood you want, and then they’ll cook it for you. It’s located at Arnaldo Blvd right beside the beach.

El Maria’s Palabok House & Resto

Things to do and see in roxas city.

Roxas City, although not the first option when it comes to beach hopping – is now, for us – an obvious holiday getaway with plenty of exciting activities to do. Check out this amazing list of things to do and must-see tourist spots in Roxas City.

Visit Manuel Roxas Shrine

Manuel Roxas Shrine photo via Tripadvisor

One must not forget to visit the Manuel Roxas Shrine when in Roxas. This ancestral house was home of the late President Roxas and is one of the city’s last standing houses of its kind. It is amazing how the interiors and furniture remained intact and preserved over the years.

Roxas Cathedral

The Roxas Cathedral, located in the city, is one of the most significant landmarks in Roxas. The cathedral has withstood the passing of the years and the Great War, fires, and earthquakes.

Visit the Sacred Heart of Jesus Monument

Also located in Roxas City, you should also try to visit the Sacred Heart of Jesus Monument, towering at 102 feet. Visitors will be able to see one of the largest statues of Jesus in Asia.

Roxas City Bridge

Another amazing landmark in Roxas is the Roxas City Bridge, whose former name was Capiz Bridge. It crosses the Panay River with its one end facing the city’s rotunda and the cathedral.

Roxas City Bandstand

This earthquake-proof bandstand overlooking the Panay River is also a must-see tourist place in the city. It was built in the ’20s by Jose S. Roldan, the first Filipino principal of the Capiz Trade School. The bandstand is the venue for many political rallies, presentations, and launching of programs that benefit the City and the Province.

Ang Panublion Museum

Panublion is a Hiligaynon term meaning a guardian of precious things. The Panublion Museum is a refurbished museum that houses some memorabilia and religious icons.

Dine with a view at Cafe Terraza

Located atop the hill in Pueblo de Panay, Café Terraza is a popular hangout place in Roxas City for those who want to dine and get an amazing view of the city. The restaurant served a great combination of local and western cuisine.

Watch Sunset at Baybay Beach

Take a breather and watch the sunset at Baybay Beach. Locals and tourists usually just stroll along its long stretch of black sand. It is also a perfect place where visitors can swim, snorkel, kayak, and skimboard.

River Cruise at Palina Greenbelt Ecopark

You can also experience a River Cruise here in Roxas when visiting Palina Greenbelt Park. If you want food to be served during the cruise, we suggest you book a hut a day before the tour.

Visit Panay Church

The Panay Church or the former Santa Monica Parish Church should also be visited if you’re in the province. This historic church was built in 1700 and is famous for having the biggest bells in Asia. The bell measures 5 feet in height and weighs 10 tons.

Best Places to Shop in Roxas City

Search for the best pasalubong here in Kapis atpb. They sell gifts and decors made with capiz shells. It’s located at Brgy. Banica in Roxas City.

Banica Dried Fish Market

Not every pasalubongs are key chains and sweets. Here at Banica Dried Fish Market, you’ll get to have a variety of dried fishes from tuyo, dried pusit, dilis, and Hibi. It’s perfect for eating breakfast.

Spanggo Café

This shop’s name is a combination of the words “Spanish” and “Ilonggo.” They have barquillos, churros, homemade salad dressings, and more.

Sample Roxas City Itinerary and Budget

11 am – Arrival in Roxas City
12 noon – Check-in at the hotel
1 pm – Late lunch at Harry’s Seafood Palutuan
2 to 5 pm 0 Roam around the plaza, explore historic churches in nearby área (Roxas City Bridge, Bandstand)
5 pm – Head over to Baybay Beach for Dinner
8 pm – Back to Hotel
7 am – Breakfast at the hotel
8 am – Travel going to Panay Church
11 am – River Cruise at Palina Greenbelt Ecopark
(free time)
7 am – Breakfast at the Hotel
9 am – Visit the Roxas Shrine
11 am – Lunch at Galleon (right beside Spanggo)
11:45 am – Back to the Airport

Travel Bloggers with Las Islas Travel and Tours

Roxas City Travel and Tours

Visit the Panublion Museum, the birthplace of President Manuel Roxas, Sta. Monica Chruch and Museum, Panay Bell, and other historical sites. Discover the beautiful islands and coastal beaches or be fascinated by the sights, mangroves, crustaceans, mollusks, architecture, and history while on the Panay River Tour. Drop by Banica Dried Fish Pasalubong Center for sun-dried seafood. Baybay beach and fresh seafood stalls are just 3 kilometers away from the city proper. Various municipalities also have plenty of enchanting caves and waterfalls for your great adventure trip to Roxas City and the province of Capiz.

Panay Island Tour Packages via Las Islas Travel and Tours

Plenty of Panay Island Travel and Tour Packages are available for your most convenient trip. Instead of doing a DIY tour, we highly recommend getting a pre-arranged or customed tour in Panay. You can either choose from Captivating Capiz Basic Tour, the Eco-Tourism Tour, and the Panay Island Expedition. They also offer a Capiz Seafood Tour for as low as Php 1,999 per head.

Las Islas Travel and Tours Address: Punta Dulog, Pueblo De Panay, Roxas City, Capiz Contact Details: (Globe) +63995 335 7310 (Smart) +63999 430 0133 Website: http://lasislas.ph/ Facebook Page: Las Islas Travel and Tours FB

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Written by Melo Villareal

Melo Villareal is the Online Publisher of Outoftownblog.com. He is an Accountant by profession who left the corporate world at the age of 23 to explore his beautiful country and the rest of the world. Today, Melo works as a part-time Social Media Manager for local and international clients. His full-time work focuses on discovering interesting culture, explore different cuisines and take memorable photos from local and international destinations he's visiting.

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Philippines Map & Geography Guide: Top Destinations in Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao

Cordillera Region

Cagayan de oro, how to get around luzon, visayas, and mindanao, flights to/from luzon, flights to/from visayas, flights to/from mindanao, travel tips for exploring the philippines.

With a country that has over 7,000 islands, the Philippines is a destination where you'll have thousands of options for places to explore and things to do.

Thanks to the geographical features of the Philippines, the country is home to some of the best islands and beaches in the world, like Palawan , Boracay , and Siargao .

This is why a lot of travelers try to make the most of their time in the country by island-hopping in the Philippines or visiting the best tourist spots in the Philippines all in one trip.

The best golf courses in the Philippines also feature some of the most stunning scenic views because of the country's geography. You can easily tour the country via the many Philippine airports .

See our popular Philippines Vacation Packages

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However, the top tourist destinations in the Philippines are usually scattered around the three island regions of the country: Luzon (where you can find Palawan), Visayas (where you can find Boracay), and Mindanao (where you can find Siargao).

Before you finalize your trip, make sure to take a look at a Luzon Visayas Mindanao map to familiarize yourself with the many tourist destinations. Here's a Philippine map showing the top tourist spots in the 3 major island regions:

Exploring the Philippines requires careful planning and ample knowledge of what each island region has to offer to make the most of your limited time to travel. Read our guide on getting around the Philippines and the best cars to rent for a road trip in the Philippines to help you have a hassle-free vacation. Here's a comprehensive guide on Philippine geography to help you plan your trip:

The largest island in the Philippines, Luzon serves as the primary entry point for international travelers. Here, you will find the country’s bustling capital, Manila . Together with other major cities nearby, the region is known as Metro Manila.

While Manila is the economic center of the entire nation, Luzon also boasts of other notable Luzon tourist spots that make the Philippines worth visiting and exploring.

Start your journey with a visit to some of Manila ’s famous historic sites, including Intramuros , or the Walled City, a historically significant fortress that was once the center of power back in the Spanish era.

See our popular Intramuros Tours

Manila intramuros historical express 90-minute tour in eco-friendly bamboo bike + optional upgrades, manila intramuros half-day shared walking tour with guide, manila intramuros shared half-day walking tour with guide.

Here you’ll find some of the country’s oldest buildings, including its oldest stone church, San Augustin Church. Nearby Intramuros are other Manila tourist spots like the National Museum Complex, Rizal Park, Binondo Chinatown, and Roxas Boulevard, where you can see the stunning Manila Bay sunset. You can visit these attractions and try other things to do in Manila by going on Manila day tours .

Browse our Manila hotel promos and best serviced apartments in Metro Manila
Read our article on the best kid-friendly places to visit in Manila
See our collection of museum tours
Read our Manila travel guide
Check out our list of the best buffets in Manila

For your nightlife fix, head to Makati City 's Poblacion where you can find the hippest up-and-coming restaurants and pubs frequented by backpackers and travelers. You may also try other fun activities in Makati .

See our popular Manila Tours & Activities

Manila binondo shared walking food tour with guide.

More than the charm of Manila’s busy streets and offerings, it’s the places outside of it that will bring you the most authentic Luzon experience. If you wish to have a longer road trip, travel to North Luzon and witness the breathtaking gifts of nature found in the Cordillera region.

Check out our list of Baguio tour packages
Read our article on the top tourist spots in Baguio
Browse our collection of Benguet tours

Here, you can visit the Summer Capital of the Philippines, Baguio , hike the third highest peak in the Philippines, Mt. Pulag, pick and eat the most delicious strawberries at La Trinidad, and explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Banaue , the Batad Rice Terraces.

See our popular Baguio Tours and Activities

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Cordillera is also home to the quaint town of Sagada where you can check out the Hanging Coffins, watch the sunrise with its sea of clouds at Mount Kiltepan, and visit other Sagada tourist spots .

To get here, you can ride a bus from Manila to Baguio. But, if you wish to have a more comfortable travel experience, you can also drive a private vehicle or rent a car to Baguio , or arrange Baguio tours that have transfers from Manila.

See our popular Benguet Tours and Activities

Baguio religious sites tour with lunch & hotel transfers, baguio & benguet farms, gardens & museum tour with lunch & transfers.

Travel back in time when you visit the Spanish colonial town, Vigan , located in northern Luzon in Ilocos Sur. This city’s well-preserved architecture dates back to the 16th century.

Check our Ilocos tours
Read our article on the top Vigan hotels

Buildings and structures are reminiscent of the Spanish era and you can even have a complete feel of the times back then by exploring its cobblestone streets and other Vigan tourist spots through a kalesa or horse-drawn carriage in Vigan tours .

See our popular Vigan Tours and Activities

Ilocos sur vigan city heritage & sightseeing tour with horse-drawn carriage ride & transfers, vigan historical sightseeing city day tour with transfers & kalesa ride, fascinating 7-day history, heritage & nature tour to laoag, pagudpud & vigan ilocos from manila.

Go off the beaten path when you travel to Batanes , a small island in the northernmost part of Luzon. A lot of typhoons pass by the island, that's why the best time to go here is during the dry and summer season, around March to June.

Batanes is the land of the Ivatans, who have successfully preserved the island’s identity. Batanes tours will take you to luscious green mountains, endless hills perfect for relaxing and disconnecting from the world, and other Batanes tourist spots .

You can also trek a mountain called Mount Iraya or take a postcard-worthy photo with you at the Tayid Lighthouse. Due to its location, travelers have fewer and more expensive flight options going to its capital, Basco, but it will all be worth it once you set foot in this island province.

See our popular Batanes Tours and Activities

North batan batanes half day private tour with lunch & transfers | basco lighthouse & vayang hills, batanes sabtang island private day tour with lunch & transfers | morong beach, nakabuang arch, stunning 2-day nature & sightseeing tour to north & south batan in batanes via cogon roofed tricycle.

Palawan is one of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines and has been named one of the best, if not the best, islands in the world by different travel magazines. It's a constant top contender for international travelers' favorite destinations in the Philippines because it offers attractions that are truly paradise-like.

See our popular Palawan Tours and Activities

Coron island hopping tour to kayangan lake & barracuda lake | palawan super ultimate package, shared puerto princesa underground river tour in palawan with lunch & hotel transfers, private el nido palawan lio airport to or from any el nido town hotel transfer service.

Its capital, Puerto Princesa , is home to a UNESCO World Heritage and New7Wonders of Nature site, the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park or Underground River . To make your visit hassle-free, book Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour or other Puerto Princesa tours .

See our popular Coron Vacation Packages

Budget-friendly 4-day coron palawan package at skylodge resort with flights from manila & tour, stress-free 5-day coron palawan package at bacau bay resort with flights from manila, relaxing 4-day coron palawan package at top-rated the funny lion hotel with flights from manila.

Both Coron and El Nido are home to some of the best beaches in the Philippines , stunning limestone rock formations, and a breathtaking underwater world. It’s perfect for divers and beach lovers. Both are also home to some of the best beach resorts in the Philippines . If you want to try island hopping in Palawan , Coron and El Nido are two of the best places to try it. You can try booking El Nido island hopping tours or Coron Palawan island hopping tours . You can also see other tourist attractions when you book El Nido tours and Coron tours .

Browse our collection of Palawan resorts packages or check out our list of El Nido tour packages and Coron tour packages
Check our list of Snake Island Palawan tours and Coron wreck diving tours
Read our guides on diving in Coron and diving in Malapascua

See our popular El Nido Vacation Packages

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San Vicente is a less popular destination in Palawan compared to the first three but it's a must-visit since it's where you can find Long Beach, the longest beach in the Philippines, and try other things to do in San Vicente Palawan .

A collection of islands in Central Philippines, Visayas is home to a rich and diverse culture and history. Some of the top tourist spots in Visayas include the oldest city in the country, Cebu, the world-famous Boracay Island, and Bohol, home of the Chocolate Hills.

This region is further divided into three parts: Central, Eastern, and Western Visayas. Festivals, bucket list destinations, and unique delicacies abound in this region.

Boracay is a must-visit for first-time Philippine visitors. It has been named multiple times by travel magazines as one of the best islands in the world.

See our popular Boracay Vacation Packages

Luxurious 5-day boracay package at 5-star movenpick resort & spa with airfare & chocolate hour, stress-free 4-day boracay package at tides hotel with airfare from manila or clark & island hopping.

Find the best tours in Boracay , including Boracay island hopping packages
Book our Boracay tour packages , including Shangri La Boracay promos and Discovery Shores Boracay promos

This small island has drawn travelers to its shore because of its fine, white sand beaches ( White Beach being the most popular), diving spots, cliff diving spots, stunning sunsets, thrilling water adventures like parasailing, vibrant nightlife, and other tourist spots in Boracay . Island hopping in Boracay is also a popular activity.

See our popular Boracay Tours and Activities

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Cebu is one of the most historically significant places in the Philippines and is also home to multiple destinations packed with mus-visit Cebu tourist spots .

Check out stunning beaches in Cebu , including beaches in Moalboal and Bantayan Island beaches , and the islands in Mactan Island and Bantayan Island . Explore diving spots and swim with millions of sardines in Moalboal and thresher sharks in Malapascua , try exciting activities like canyoneering, and go on gastronomic food adventures to taste Cebu lechon and other local dishes.

See our popular Cebu Vacation Packages

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Check tours in Cebu , including Cebu island hopping tours and Kawasan Falls canyoneering
Book Cebu tour packages

Its capital, Cebu City, the “Queen City of the South,” is where you’ll find historical landmarks and remnants such as the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu and Magellan's Cross. You can visit these spots easily if you rent a car in Cebu or book Cebu City tours .

Cebu can also be an alternative entry point to the Philippines since it has the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, which services international flights.

See our popular Cebu Tours and Activities

Private cebu airport to or from any cebu city hotel transfer service, cebu moalboal sardine run, pescador island & turtle bay tour with lunch & transfers from cebu city, cebu oslob whale shark watching & moalboal island hopping private day tour with lunch & transfers.

Just a ferry ride away from Cebu is another famous Visayan island, Bohol . This is where you’ll find the world’s second smallest primate, the Philippine tarsier, and the unique landscape, Chocolate Hills .

Bohol Chocolate Hills will treat your eyes to a wondrous view of hundreds of green mountainous hills. During the dry season, they turn to brown, making them look like chocolates.

See our popular Bohol Vacation Packages

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Bohol is also a top beach and diving destination since it is home to Alona Beach, Balicasag Island diving , and Pamilacan Island. You can explore its other islands through Bohol island hopping tours .

Browse our list of Bohol package tours , including packages with Mithi Resort and Bohol Beach Club

Some must-visit attractions in Bohol tours aside from the Chocolate Hills include the Loboc River, where you can feast on a Filipino buffet while on a boat, the Tarsier Sanctuary, and the Bilar Man-made Forest. You can visit most of these attractions by booking Bohol countryside tours or Loboc River cruise tours .

See our popular Bohol Tours and Activities

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Another famous Visayan province is Iloilo , with its equally stunning beaches and islets that can rival the country’s best and historical landmarks that date back to the Spanish colonial period too.

For beach lovers, Islas de Gigantes or Gigantes Island Iloilo package tours deserve a spot in your itinerary. Iloilo tours won’t be complete without a taste of their famous La Paz Batchoy, a noodle soup mixed with chicken stock, beef, and pork cracklings.

Iloilo is also home to centuries-old historical churches Jaro Cathedral and Molo Church, and other must-visit Iloilo tourist spots such as Camiña Balay nga Bato, Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art, and Calle Real.

See our popular Iloilo Tours and Activities

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Also located in Western Visayas in the province of Negros, Bacolod is known for the famous MassKara Festival , a grandiose parade of people in masks celebrated every October.

Bacolod is also a great starting point for visiting the famous The Ruins. To complete your Bacolod tours , make sure to feast on Bacolod’s signature chicken inasal (grilled chicken).

Other Bacolod tourist spots include the century-old San Sebastian church, mansions of the rich families in Negros, and Lakawon Island.

See our popular Bacolod Tours and Activities

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Southern Philippines may be the least visited among the Philippines’ three major islands but that’s not to say it’s not as great as the other two. It has some of the country’s jaw-dropping natural attractions, Mindanao tourist spots , and unique culture and heritage.

The tear-drop-shaped island of Siargao has gained increasing popularity over the years as the ultimate surfing destination in the country . It rivals even the best in neighboring countries Indonesia and Australia.

Surfers from all over the world flock to Siargao for the annual International Surfing Cup, usually held at the most famous surfing spot called Cloud 9 in General Luna.

See our popular Siargao Tours and Activities

Private siargao tri island hopping tour with hotel transfers | guyam, naked, daku islands, siargao airport to/from any hotel in general luna | private transfers, siargao land tour to magpupungko rock pools, cloud 9, coconut mountain view & more with transfers.

Siargao has also been named the best island in the world multiple times, head-to-head with the more famous Palawan and Boracay.

Aside from surfing, Siargao island-hopping tours are also a must-try where you can visit Daku Island, Guyam Island, and Naked Island .

Read our article on travel insurance in the Philippines

Other Siargao private tours will take you to stunning Siargao tourist spots like Sugba Lagoon, Magpupungko Rock Pools, and Sohoton Cove, to name a few. For a hassle-free trip, you may book Siargao tour packages . Aside from surfing, check out other rainy season activities in the Philippines .

See our popular Siargao Vacation Packages

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Davao , also known as the “Crown Jewel of Mindanao,” can also be an entry point for travelers to the Philippines through the Francisco Bangoy International Airport.

Some of the city’s highlights included in Davao tours are Mount Apo, the highest peak in the Philippines, the Philippine Eagle Center, Eden Nature Park, Malagos Chocolate Museum, and the famous durian fruit which you may have a love-hate relationship with because of its potent smell. If you can, time your Davao itinerary to coincide with the Kadayawan Festival in August.

If you want to get out of the city to lounge at pristine beaches, a trip to the nearby Samal Island may just be what you need.

See our popular Davao Tours and Activities

Davao city tour b with transfers | philippine eagle center, people's park, malagos garden resort, 3-day stress-free package to davao at seda abreeza with breakfast & airport transfers, davao city tour d with transfers | crocodile park, people's park, d' bone collector museum.

Located in Misamis Oriental in Northern Mindanao, Cagayan de Oro (CDO) prides itself as “The Whitewater Rafting Capital of the Philippines.” Best enjoyed with friends, you’ll be splashed with water from all sides of your raft as you yell your heart out as you enjoy your Cagayan de Oro whitewater rafting package .

Read our article on the top Cagayan De Oro tourist spots
Check out our Seven Seas Waterpark Cagayan de Oro day pass with transfers
Enjoy a Cagayan De Oro Sinulom Falls & Bolao Cold Spring tour
Book a Cagayan de Oro airport transfer

Other activities you can try in Cagayan de Oro tours are spelunking at Kweba de Oro or paragliding at Sierra del Oro. Cagayan de Oro is also known for being the jump-off point to get to Asia’s longest dual zipline at Dahilayan Adventure Park in Bukidnon. You may also visit other attractions in the city via a Cagayan de Oro city tour.

Book a Dahilayan Forest Park package with a Del Monte pineapple plantation tour
Enjoy a Bukidnon flower farm & cafe tour
See other Bukidnon tours

See our popular Cagayan De Oro Tours and Activities

Exciting 4-day cagayan de oro package with whitewater rafting & stay at seda centrio with breakfast, relaxing 3-day cagayan de oro package at seda centrio with daily breakfast & airport transfers, cagayan de oro tour to sinulom falls & bolao cold spring with hotel transfers.

If you want to go to an island paradise that’s near Cagayan de Oro, then Camiguin is the best choice for you. Just a ferry ride away from Cagayan de Oro, Camiguin is also dubbed as the “Island Born of Fire” because it's home to seven volcanoes, with only one of them being active.

From waterfalls and natural springs to secluded beaches and heritage sites, you’d pretty much have a taste of everything when you visit some of the top Camiguin tourist spots .

Check out the iconic landmark, Sunken Cemetery, and enjoy the picturesque White Island sandbar via a Camiguin White Island & countryside tour . Take a relaxing dip at Ardent Hot Springs. If you want it cold, let the water from the Sto. Nino Cold Spring treat you during a hot afternoon.

Get a feel of Spain’s influence in the Philippines when you visit Zamboanga in southern Philippines, also known as “Asia’s Latin City”.

Remnants of the Spanish era can still be seen in Zamboanga tours when you visit tourist spots like Fort Pilar, a defense fort built in the 17th century, and the Zamboanga City Hall, where the whole street is lined with well-preserved buildings.

Take day tours to Great Sta. Cruz Island, which is known for the Pink Beach, and ride a colorful vinta boat while cruising alongside mangroves.

See our popular Zamboanga Tours and Activities

Zamboanga pink sand sta. cruz island private tour with vinta ride, lunch & transfers, zamboanga city private historical day tour with transfers, aliguay island zamboanga del norte day tour with boat transfers.

The Philippines has several international airports that serve as gateways to the country and its different destinations. There are international airports for all three major island regions of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Aside from flights, you can also travel through the different regions via ferry.

The country’s largest international airport is Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) which can be found in the city of Pasay in Luzon. NAIA is the most common starting point for other airports in the country, as it has numerous connecting flights to Visayas and Mindanao.

Another international airport in Luzon is Clark International Airport in Pampanga which services flights that usually have less expensive fares to destinations in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Clark is around 90km away from Manila, so you need to ride a bus or hire a transfer to get there.

See our popular Manila Transfers

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For those wanting to hop from Luzon or Mindanao to Visayas, there are regular flights from Manila in Luzon and Davao in Mindanao to and from Cebu's Mactan-Cebu International Airport in Visayas. Cebu's airport also services international flights from Hong Kong, Singapore, Doha, and Quanzhou, so you can fly here directly if you want to explore destinations in Visayas like Cebu, Boracay (take a connecting flight), and Bohol (ride a ferry from Cebu).

There are also connecting flights from Cebu airport going to Mindanao destinations like Siargao.

See our popular Cebu Transfers

Mactan-cebu international airport to or from any hotel in lapu-lapu | private cebu transfer (ceb), cebu city, lapu-lapu or mandaue to or from moalboal transfer.

Mindanao's main entry point is the Francisco Bangoy International Airport in Davao City. There are also regular flights from Manila in Luzon and Cebu in Visayas to and from Davao. Davao's airport also services international flights from Hong Kong, Singapore, Doha, and Quanzhou.

It's best to fly here directly if you want to visit Mindanao destinations such as Davao City and Samal Island.

If you have more time to spare and would want a cheaper option, getting on a Roll-on/roll-off Terminal System (RoRo) or ferries is another option to get around. The RoRo system is an integration of roads and ports that connect the major islands of the Philippines.

Secure your Philippines ferry ticket booking

You can board public buses that traverse the RoRo routes or drive your own car. The land vehicles will be boarded (roll-on) on the ferry and dock at the port of the destination, where you can alight the ferry (roll-off) and drive to the next port or explore your next destination.

Take note of these important information to help you have a hassle-free trip in the Philippines:

Currency of the Philippines - the Philippines Peso

The country’s currency is Philippine Peso (PHP). Some establishments, especially in Manila, Cebu, Davao, and other major tourist spots, accept cashless payments either via credit or debit card.

However, the Philippines is still a largely cash-based economy, so make sure to have enough cash with you, especially if you’re traveling to places frequented less by travelers, as stores and transportation may still require you to pay via cash.

Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) are commonly found inside malls but it’s always safer to transact in ATMs in banks.

Aside from the vibrant Philippine tourism geography and culture, warm and hospitable people, and scenic spots, another advantage of the Philippines over its neighboring Asia countries is its English-speaking population, making it easier for foreigners to travel around the country.

The majority of Filipinos know how to speak and understand English and so conversing with tourists isn’t such a big challenge. If you need anything or need to ask for directions, you’ll most likely get the answer you need and find Filipinos always willing to help.

Since the country is divided into islands, each region will most likely have a local language but the majority speak Filipino, the country's national language.

Start Planning Your Trip Around the Philippines

Wherever part of the Philippines you find yourself, the geographical characteristics of the Philippines will give you everything you crave as an explorer. From picturesque beaches that you can explore via island-hopping in the Philippines and spectacular landscapes to the warm smiles of its people and rich history, there's something in here for any kind of traveler. Those who want to indulge will enjoy staying at one of the 5-star hotels in the Philippines or glamping in the Philippines .

Bookmark this guide to help you plan your Philippine adventure and complete your online trip booking . Read our travel guides and browse tours and activities to add to your Philippine itinerary, or browse our collection of Philippine trip packages , including vacation packages for couples and all-inclusive family vacation packages .

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Tourist Spots in Mindanao

Top Tourist Spots in Mindanao

Note: This post is progressive, and we will still add more Tourist Spots in Mindanao.

Top Must-see Destinations/Tourist Spots in Mindanao

Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. These three major islands of the country have always been proud to offer their unique places as tourist destinations. In this article, I would like to focus on the top tourist spots in Mindanao. This part of the country is perhaps one of the least visited in tourism since it is a bit farm compared to the other if one comes from the Metropolitan. Far from the knowledge of many people that this place is heaven-sent in terms of natural resources and scenic spots to witness let’s go for a fantastic tour of this article.

Cagayan de Oro City, White Water Rafting [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY

Whether it is tubing, water rafting, or any other water sport, your adrenaline will be tested. CDO’s rocky and wild areas will test your patience, strength, and perseverance; ultimately, a must-try adventure is achieved.

Cagayan de Oro Travel Guide
White Water Rafting in Cagayan de Oro

Sinulom Waterfalls in Cagayan de Oro [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

BRITANNIA GROUP OF ISLANDS IN SAN AGUSTIN, SURIGAO DEL SUR

With 24 islets, getting to the Brittania Group of Islands is exciting. Explore the beautiful beaches without spending too much! The turquoise color of the water, matched with the powdery sand, is what these islets are all about.

The Sunken Cemetery in Camiguin [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

CAMIGUIN ISLAND

A long white sand surrounded by pristine clear water will undeniably enthrall tourists. Thus making Camiguin one of the top tourist spots in Mindanao. Aside from the beach life, you may also want to visit other notable places such as the Katibawan Falls and the Catarman Church Ruins.

Camiguin Island Travel Guide
Camiguin Lanzones Festival
Camiguin Resorts and Hotels

White Beach in Camiguin [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

Mantigue Island in Camiguin [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

COTABATO CITY

If it is culture immersion that you are searching for, heading to Cotabato City is the key. In this place, the teaming culture and tradition of the Muslims can be seen. You may also go to the Bollkiah Mosque and witness the grand beauty of it.

Dakak Beach Resort [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

DAPITAN, ZAMBOANGA DEL NORTE

If marine diversity is what you are after, then head to Dakak Park and Beach Resort and be mesmerized by the vibrant and teeming life of fishes and corals. On the other hand, if it is diving that you are after, then Dapitan will be the suited spot for you.

Must read: Dapitan City Travel Guide

People’s Park in Davao City [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

Taking pride as one of Mindanao’s most well-preserved and peaceful cities, there are so many striking attractions to look forward to seeing and experiencing in Davao. There are Eden Mountain Resort, Crocodile Park, Philippine National Eagle, Mt. Apo, People’s Park, and Deca Wakeboard Park.

Davao City Tourist Spots | Travel Guide
People’s Park Davao
Davao Hotels
Davao Tourist Spots
Davao White Water Rafting
Davao Crocodile Park
Davao Kadayawan Festival

White Water rafting in Davao [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

DINAGAT ISLAND

The hiking and diving activity in this part of Surigao is exciting enough to be tried by any visitor. Dinagat Island may be small, but it is a gem in the middle of the sea. Plus, the indigenous people in the area will make you stay comfortable and at home.

Hinatuan Enchanted River in Surigao del Sur [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

HINATUAN ENCHANTED RIVER IN SURIGAO DEL SUR

Take on a boating adventure as you head to the Enchanted River. If you like, you may even take some swimming time. The river’s cleanliness and natural turquoise color make it enchanting. The cold water it has is enough to take away anyone’s stress feeling.

Hinatuan Enchanted River

PAGADIAN CITY

Pagadian City is alive and vibrant, just like the other neighboring cities. As you go here, you can enjoy the place and, at the same time, meet the welcoming people of the town. As a part of the top tourist spots in Mindanao, I know that the place will never disappoint you.

Mimbalut Falls in Iligan City [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

WATERFALLS IN ILIGAN CITY

I have always read about Maria Cristina Falls since I was young. I have read it in elementary textbooks, and from then, I was already eager to see the place. Now, I can say that Iligan City deserves its label as the City of Majestic Waterfalls. With the Maria Cristina Falls, Mimbalut Falls and Tinago Falls in one city, it is a must-visit spot.

Iligan Travel Guide
Maria Cristina Falls
Tinago Falls

Maria Cristina Falls in Iligan City [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

Tinago Falls in Iligan City [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

MATI CITY IN DAVAO ORIENTAL

A long stretch of fine sand on a beach invites tourists to jump and enjoy the clear water. You have to be careful since the waves are high, making it a hit for water sports enthusiasts such as surfers.

MT. HAMIGUITAN IN DAVAO ORIENTAL

Visiting one of the lists of UNESCO’s World Heritage seems exciting, right? Well, Mt. Hamiguitan in Davao Oriental is part of the file and is a haven for all nature lovers. The sparkling green surroundings, the humming of birds, and the overall serenity of the place are heavenly.

Gumasa Beach in Glan, Sarangani [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

GUMASA BEACH, GLAN, SARANGANI

A place as spectacular as Boracay, this is what Gumasa Beach is all about. What is good about it is that it is not as crowded as other famous beaches. So, you may enjoy the beauty of the place without worrying about the flock of people.

Must Read: Gumasa Beach Resorts | Travel Guide

Lake Sebu in South Cotabato [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

LAKE SEBU, SOUTH COTABATO

Never leave Mindanao without visiting one of its famous cultural landscapes- Lake Sebu. Lake Sebu is known for its three clear, tranquil lakes, luscious food offered, and thrilling zipline adventure.

Lake Sebu, South Cotabato Travel Guide

7 Falls in Lake Sebu

Lake Sebu Waterfalls [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

LAKE HOLON, SOUTH COTABATO

A camping site near Lake Holon is not only romantic but also extraordinarily serene and exhilarating. The green environment around the lake adds to the total beauty of the place. May it be with your family or friends, you will for sure enjoy your stay here.

MALAMAWI ISLAND, BASILAN

The Island of Malamawi in Basilan may not be known to many, but I must say that as one of the top tourist destinations in this list, the place has reserved something magical and beautiful for visitors. For one, the unexplored beaches of the area are merely spectacular.

Maxima Aqua Fun in Samal Island, Davao del Norte [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

SAMAL ISLAND, DAVAO DEL NORTE

Several beach resorts are here, including Chema’s by the Sea, Bali-Bali Beach, and Pearl Farm. The long stretch of creamy powdery sand will make you want to stay here for good. Not to mention the bright and inviting water.

Samal Island Travel Guide
Samal Island Resorts, Beaches, and Hotel

Magpupungko Rock Pool in Siargao [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ] Photo by Agustin Mendez

SIARGAO IN SURIGAO DEL NORTE

The island of Siargao has been making a name as one of the top tourist destinations in the country. No wonder many celebrities and well-known personalities will usually include this one as a part of their top vacation list. What makes the place unique is its perfect haven for surfers because of the big waves and the pristine beaches.

Siargao Travel Guide
Siargao Tourist Spots
Siargao List of Resorts and Hotels

SOHOTON IN SURIGAO DEL NORTE

The diversity of marine creatures and the lush green surrounding of Sohotan is impeccable. It has lakes, lagoons, and parks, making it ideal for boating, fishing, swimming, camping, and even picnics.

Baras Bird Sanctuary in Tacurong, Sultan Kudarat [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

BARAS BIRD SANCTUARY, IN TACURONG, SULTAN KUDARAT

Must read: Baras Bird Sanctuary Travel Guide

TAWI-TAWI

You can never honestly say that you somehow had a meaningful experience in Tawi Tawi if you haven’t visited Bud Bongao or Bonggao Peak. Bud Bongao is distinguished as a holy mountain of Tawi-Tawi since it is where the locals climb to contemplate.

Tinuy-an Falls in Bislig, Surigao del Sur [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

TINUY-AN FALLS IN BISLIG, SURIGAO DEL SUR

The Tinuy-an Falls is comparable to the Niagara Falls of the United States. Believe me, as you watch the majestic flow of water as it hits the ground along with the sound that it creates, you will feel nothing but peace and refreshing.

Must read: Tinuy-an Falls Travel Guide

ZAMBOANGA CITY

One of the tourist spots in Mindanao is the City of Zamboanga. Being here will make one feel that the Spanish influence still runs in the blood, culture, and environment of the people and the place. For natural areas, the Pink Beach in Sta. Cruz of this town is also beautiful.

Hobbit House in Kitanglad Mountain Range, Bukidnon [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

KITANGLAD MOUNTAIN RANGE, BUKIDNON

The Mt.Kitanglad and Mt. Dulang-Dulang will bring out the adventurous part of you. May it be mountain climbing or visiting the haven of the Philippine eagle, both of these activities can make your vacation a fulfilling one.

DAHILAYAN IN BUKIDNON

Just 2 hours away from Cagayan de Oro City, Bukidnon is also a place to explore. Apart from Dahilayan, you can also visit the Hobbit House.

Must read: Dahilayan Travel Guide

Getting to know and visiting the top tourist spots in Mindanao are two different stories. No matter how much I’d describe it here, no words could do justice to the actual beauty of the places. That is why I highly urge you to visit these places.

The blogger at Tinago Falls in Iligan [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

Travel Tips When Visiting Various Tourist Spots in Mindanao

Many are scared they heard Mindanao. Mindanao is relatively safe. I had visited numerous tourist spots in Mindanao, and I didn’t experience any problems for each of my travels. Of course, every traveler must exercise the necessary precautions when visiting a new place, including all places in the world.

In line with the above, we recommend the following if you plan to visit any tourist spots in Mindanao.

Research. Before your trip, it is imperative to research the place before hitting the road. You should know if there is a pending advisory at the place. Learn the bus schedules, especially the last trip, etc. Many daring tourists meet some accidents because they miss the last bus and are forced to sleep on the street or at the terminal.
Contact the Local Tourism Office. This office will give you sound advice on where to go or whether to go in certain seasons.
Avail the services of accredited tour operators. Let’s face it: you need a guide in some places, and you cannot do it alone.
Get some travel insurance. Just a few more bucks will surely save you from any unforeseen accidents.
Check and recheck the information you get online. Not all travel bloggers who wrote about the place have been there. This is one of the reasons why I put my pics on my blog pages as much as possible to show the readers researching that I had been in the place.
Ask. Try to be friendly and talk to the locals when you reach the place. They can provide you with priceless pieces of information and tips.

Pin Me! [ Attraction/Tourist Spot in Mindanao ]

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The Visayas, Philippines

The best travel tips for visiting Visayas

#1 Kick back on picture-perfect sands at Boracay

#2 Head off the beaten track in Romblon

#3 Keep on partying at Ati-Atihan Festival

#4 Live like a sugar baron in Silay

#5 Extreme trekking in Mount Kanlaon National Park

#6 Laze beneath swaying palms on Sugar Beach

#7 Delve beneath the waters surrounding Apo Island

#8 Take a tour of Siquijor

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Travel Itinerary around the Visayas

Fist of all, some boring (but useful) planning tips:

Getting there:

It’s now time to begin with the itinerary, starting and ending from the visayan capital

2) Way to Malapascua

4) the Mysterious Siquijor

Luckily, especially for solo and not-so planned travelers like me, Larena’s port is not as crazy as Tagbilaran’s or Cebu’s, and you can easily make your way to town or the nearby rental place and start riding around like I did here.

This was my Whale-sharks experience:

Between running sardines, diving trips and waterfalls adventures, there’s soo plenty to do for even a week! And as often in the Philippines, SOO MUCH FUN!

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