travel bucket list ph

Philippines Bucket List: 100 places to visit in the Philippines

Are 2 weeks enough for the philippines.

The Philippines is the land of islands, historical landmarks, and amazing natural wonders. There are many places to visit in the Philippines and two weeks are not enough for that. Transportation is very challenging to complete the Philippines bucket list and you also have to check the weather for some islands. There are many activities like snorkeling, diving, hiking, trying cuisines, and many more. Some cities of the Philippines can be explored in a day whereas it is not possible to enjoy all the activities in a day at one place or city.  If you do not have more than two weeks to explore the country, then design your Philippines bucket list carefully after deciding the places to visit along with the transportation and time of traveling.

Where’s the best place to go in the Philippines?

There is a huge variety of places to visit in the Philippines. More than One hundred different tourist attractions in various places are listed below. You can create your itinerary and make a list.

Places to visit in Bohol

There are 75 small islands around Bohol and major attractions are:

• Chocolate Hills
• Loboc Adventure Park
• Blood Compact monument
• Danao adventure park
• Tarsier conservation area
• Hinagdanan Cave
• Baclayon Church
• Man-made resort Island of Nalusuan
• Mag-Aso and Busay Falls

Places to Visit in Manila

Manila is the fully urbanized capital city of the Philippines.

• Manila Ocean Park
• San Augustin church
• Fort Santiago
• National Museum of the Philippines
• San Sebastian church
• SM Mall of Asia
• Manila Cathedral
• Ayala Museum
• Greenbelt Mall
• Quiapo church

Places to Visit in Boracay

Boracay is an amazing island with white sands and palm trees. It is very popular for its resorts and beaches.

• Puka Shell Beach
• White beach
• Ariel’s Point
• Luho View Deck
• Bulabog Beach
• Diniwid Beach
• Cagban Beach
• Crystal cove Island
• Willy’s Rock

Places to visit in Cebu

Cebu province has many attractions. There is one main island with more than 150 islands and islets. There are many hidden tourist spots in the Philippines.

Cebu Taoist Temple

• Tops Lookout
• Basilica del Santo Nino
• Fort San Pedro
• Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House
• Cebu Heritage Monument
• Magellan’s Cross
• Cathedral Museum of Cebu
• Sky Experience Adventure
• Candangao Peak
• Kawasan Falls
• Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary

Places to visit in El Nido

El Nido is famous for its resorts, lagoons, cliffs, archipelago, coral reefs, white powdery sand, and blue water.

• Secret Lagoon
• Shimizu island
• Twin beaches of Nacpan and Calitang
• Snake Islands
• Coron Beach
• Seven Commando Beach
• Cudugnon Cave
• Virgin Mary Shrine in Matinloc islands

Places to visit in Quezon

It is the most populous and highly urbanized city in the Philippines. You will find many undiscovered places to visit in the Philippines.

• Eastwood City
• National Park of Quezon Memorial Circle
• Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Circle
• La Mera dam and eco-park
• 3D art museum of Art in island
• EDSA shrine
• Manginhawa Food Park
• Monasterio de Sta. Clara

Places to visit in Davao

It is a modern and fully urbanized city with islands and many attractions.

• Crocodile Park
• Apo (active volcano in the Philippines)
• People’s Park
• D’ Bone Collector Museum
• Museo Dabawenyo, a museum of Davao’s history
• Roxas Avenue Night Market
• Philippine Eagle Center

Places to visit in Coron

Coron offers the following stunning tourist attractions.

• Lake Kayangan
• Atwayan Beach
• Siete Picados
• Banana Islands
• Underwater Mountains in Barracuda Lake
• Coral Garden
• Twin Lagoon
• Maquinit Hot Springs
• Skeleton Reef

Other Places to visit in the Philippines

• Banaue Rice Terraces
• Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park in Palawan
• Tumalog Falls in Oslob
• Tagaytay, a town built on a ridge
• Vulcan Point
• The Ruins in Talisay
• Waterfalls Restaurant, San Pablo City
• Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary, Corella
• Timbac Mummies of the Philippines, Kabayan
• Fantasy World, Lemery
• Corregidor Island, Cavite City
• Hundred Islands National Park
• Mabua Pebble Beach, Surigao
• Japanese Tunnels of Baguio. Baguio
• Abandoned Puerto Azul, Ternate
• Bantay Church Bell Tower
• Magellan Bay
• Marine Sanctuary at Nalusuan Island
• Caohagan Island
• Magellan Shrine

Why is the Philippines the best place to visit?

The Philippines has some of the most amazing islands in the world. The beaches are known for their white powdery sand and blue waters. There are several things which bring crowds of tourists.

Philippines Natural Wonders

There are many unique natural wonders in the country. Puerto Princesa Underground River is listed in the UNESCO world heritage site and it is one of the wonders of the world. It has stalactites and stalagmites formations. Chocolate Hills in Bohol are natural coral deposits that took shape of giant chocolate kisses by rain and erosion.

Philippines festivals

Many colorful and lively festivals are celebrated in the Philippines. Months, in which they are celebrated are the most joyous and fun times which are celebrated by tourists from all around the world.

People from different parts of the world visit to see the Religious festivals that honor Roman Catholic figures, historical festivals, events, harvest, promote local products, historical festivals, and many more.

Filipino Cuisine

There is a huge variety of cuisines in the food menu of the Philippines. Local cuisines are unique and have their own taste. However, different international flavors are also offered because of the colonization by Spain, the US, and Japan. The country also has a very deep connection with Malay and Chinese. You will find a prominent diversity in culture and cuisines.

Diving and Snorkeling

Diving, snorkeling, and other water activities are highly recommended to keep on the Philippines bucket list because of the unique and amazing marine biodiversity. Apart from beaches and islands, there is a different world underwater with various species and coral reefs.

What should I avoid in the Philippines?

There are many places to visit in the Philippines whereas it is mandatory for the tourists to stay careful. It is generally a very safe destination for tourists whereas small crimes are everywhere in the world.

• It is a poverty-ridden country so pickpocketing and scamming are common. Take care of your belongings in public places and tourist spots. Mostly pickpockets are children. Police also get bribed easily so it is better to be careful instead of getting involved in any hassle.
• Overall it is very safe, especially for female solo travelers. However, it is advised to stay away from isolated and bad lit areas late in the night to stay safe from snatching or robbery.
• Do not disrespect or be rude to an elderly person. People in the Philippines never call their elders by their first name.
• Filipinos are very proud of their country and the things they own. They expect tourists to be respectful of their culture and country.
• Locals are friendly and welcoming whereas they become very un-confrontational in case of any argument. Try to remain calm and pleasant in any situation. They say ‘no’ indirectly like ‘I am not sure, I will try or we will see’ etc.

Try to keep your Philippines bucket list flexible in case of harsh weather, festival, transportation, or change of plan.

• Do not discuss religion because most of the people are religious. The majority is Catholic and respect the teachings of their elders. Do not argue about any other religion or atheism especially with an elderly person. Divorce is illegal in the country. Talk about sexual contraception offend many people.
• It is much cheaper to buy things from the Philippines as compared to Europe and the US whereas it is not that cheap. Bargain with the cab driver or shopkeeper to a limited extent. Try to avoid getting indulged into any heated argument. If you do not agree with pricing, then decline politely and move on.

Nedelcho Penev

Related posts.

Best Road Trips in The Philippines

Bohol Chocolate Hills: All You Need to Know

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Philippines Travel Itinerary for 2021: The Ultimate Bucket List

Once an off-the-beaten-path destination for travelers in the know, the Philippines is now becoming a popular stop on the Southeast Asian backpacking route. From lush rainforests to world class beaches, the landscape is one of the most diverse we’ve ever seen. And with over 7,000 islands you really have to choose your Philippines travel itinerary carefully if you want to take in all of this incredible country. Whether you’re a true adventurer ready to take on grueling hikes up an active volcano, or prefer to spend all your time relaxing on the sand, you will not be disappointed in the Philippines!

Although we stayed in the Philippines for over 6 months, most of our time was spent volunteering with typhoon Yolanda relief in Tacloban, so we didn’t get to see as much as we would have liked. What we were able to see during our three week motorcycle trip through the Visayas, two weeks in Palawan and our weekends off from volunteering was incredible. From the famous Chocolate Hills in Bohol to walking one of the country’s longest sandbars on the incredible Kalanggaman Island, we were continually impressed with the Philippines’ natural beauty. There’s no doubt that we’ll return one day (hopefully soon!) to keep exploring.

With all those other locations in mind, to help us craft the best Philippines travel itinerary, we asked our blogging friends to tell us the spots they’d most recommend. And here’s what they said:

Tibiao: Top Ecotourism Spot in the Philippines | Nomad is Beautiful

If you want to experience village life, where locals welcome you with a huge smile and you’re surrounded by lush green forests, then Tibiao won’t disappoint you. Located on the Antique island, not far from the popular Boracay beach, this place has lots to offer to eager ecotourists.

You can learn a lot about local life while walking along the main road. Busy villagers will show you how they build fishing boats, how to produce natural salt on the beach shore or make pottery and bricks, too. If you’re lucky to make some friends in Tibiao, they might introduce you to a local healer, Remedios Maniba, who can show you that miracles are possible.  

Once you’re done with the village experience, we strongly recommend visiting a jungle near Tibiao. There you can try the zipline from above a gorgeous valley with some stunning views! Don’t miss out on jungle trekking to the Bugtong-bato Falls, where you can have a refreshing dip on the top. Tired after hiking? No worries! On the way back there’s a hot kawa bath with some soothing herbs waiting for you. There’s no doubt that Tibiao is a one of the best body and soul retreat in the Philippines.

El Nido’s Secret Beach | Teacake Travels

Far away from the increasing hustle and bustle of El Nido’s main beach there is a way better place that you can escape to! Where the crowds are nowhere in sight and the locals are chilling out in true Filipino style. Apart from one or two tourists who have discovered the secret already, you’ve got this patch of sand to yourself (woohoo!). Tuk tuk drivers are going to try and convince you that to see the best sunset in El Nido you should head to ‘Las Cabanas’. You don’t need to go there.

Skip the ride, use your legs and pop around the corner from the main drag to bid adieu to another amazing day in this tropical paradise. The cheapest beer on the island is also here as well as a lovely table (there’s just one!) where you can pitch your bottom and soak up all the beauty. To find out this location, pop along to Teacake Travels to get the coordinates!

Siargao: A Little Island With A LOT Of Good Vibes | Backpacker Banter

Over the last few years I’ve been island hopping all over the globe – the allure of empty beaches, barefoot living and pumping surf constantly driving my travels. But from the first time I stepped foot on  Siargao Island  in the South of the Philippines, (about an hours flight East of Cebu) I knew I’d found my ultimate island retreat.

Siargao – and in particular the General Luna are – ticks all the boxes for a traveling surfer or anyone looking to kick back on island time. Enjoy world class waves such as Cloud 9 or start to learn on fun breaks like Jacking Horse or Dacu – my personal favourite. The palm tree fringed beaches are near empty and the lagoon surrounding the island is the ideal place for a high tide swim, kayak or SUP in the clear, warm waters. And the best thing about it all? It doesn’t come with a budget killing price tag!

Dedicated surf camps offer great surf and stay packages, restaurants like Mamas Grill and Kityas serve up a range of local and western dishes and there are a few budget hostels kicking around too if you’re really wanting to live on a dime. One part of me wants to tell everyone about it, the other part wants me to keep this slice of Filipino paradise secret a while longer…

Heading to the Philippines and want to know what to pack? Check out our GIRLS and GUYS packing lists for SOUTHEAST ASIA!

Snorkeling in Moalboal |  One Modern Couple

Cebu is an island filled with activity, but between exploring Cebu city and heading north to the beautiful outlying islands, it’s easy to miss out on one of the most amazing experiences the island offers – snorkeling in Moalboal.

Moalboal is a snorkeler’s playground with clear water, a large coral reef and plenty of marine life to be found. By hiring a boat, you can spend several hours in the waters off Moalboal, and around the nearby Pescador Island, observing some incredible underwater life and enjoying island life in the sun. In fact, if you look carefully you’ll most likely see several sea turtles and clown fish up close! The sardine run, one of the most unique and fascinating sights, can also be found in these waters where a huge school of countless sardines swim in one unbelievably large group.

Snorkeling in Moalboal is one of the best experiences to be had while visiting the Philippines. It showcases the natural beauty of the country and its islands, and after a day spent in the water, you can come back to the shore and enjoy some fresh and delicious local cuisine.

Diving in Coron | Travelstache

One of the most unique experiences you can have in the Philippines, and possibly the world, is in Coron. Here you can scuba dive the famous WWII Japanese ship wrecks. These ships have been at the bottom of the sea since a U.S. airstrike back on Sept. 24, 1944. On this day the U.S. sank 24 ships that were part of the Japanese supply fleet, 12 of them are now accessible to diving today.

This is an adventure not for the faint of heart. You’ll be diving down around 100 feet, making your way inside through gaping bombed out holes. Swimming through the narrow passages is like stepping back in time, you get to see the actual supplies still laying as they were. The hundreds of cement bags still intact and ready for delivery and the anchor awaiting deployment. It’s an experience that will send chills through your body and bring you down to the deep dark depths of history.

Off The Grid at Danjugan Island | The Crowded Planet

The highlight of our time in the Philippines was definitely spending three days in Danjugan Island , a tiny island off the coast of Negros Oriental managed by a conservation NGO. We had the chance to meet the president of the foundation, who told us that he purchased Danjugan to save it from overfishing and development. If it wasn’t for them the island would probably be covered in concrete tourist resorts with jet skis buzzing back and forth.

Instead, it’s an Eco paradise. There’s no wifi or electricity and we stayed in a cabana, made with mud from the island, that was powered by solar panels. During the day we walked along the islands trails and visited the ‘bat cave’, or kayaked to a magical lagoon that looked like it was out of Jurassic Park. We watched the sunset every night, in silence, then watched the sky being lit by a million stars. It wasn’t just an amazing holiday and we know that our stay in Danjugan made a difference and helped conserve this fragile environment.

Stand Up Paddling on Loboc River, Bohol | Love and Road

The Philippines is all about pristine beaches and watersports. Within the island life paradise, however, we found a different way to enjoy it! A unique experience we had in Bohol Island was the stand-up paddle on the Loboc River . The river is huge, clean and surrounded by forest, the perfect spot for SUP. We got on the boards and paddled for hours. The water is very calm and you don’t need to be a professional surfer to enjoy it.

It was a perfect afternoon with the birds singing, a few kids playing on the river banks and the sun shining through the green water. The scenery is beautiful, peaceful and you feel like you own the river. We managed to stay dry during the paddling, but afterward Rob decided to overcome his fear of heights and jumped into the river from a swing on the top of the tree. Nothing like an adrenaline rush to end our SUP tour! It was definitely an unmissable experience in Bohol Island. After the SUP, we recommend strolling around the village and trying some local food, especially the malunggay soup and the sweetest mangos you’ll ever eat!

Port Barton, Palawan | Moxie and Epoxy

If you’re looking for some peaceful time away from the crowds, you may want to put Port Barton on your travel list. Located between El Nido and Puerto Princesa, this quiet town is a real escape. While much of the Philippines have been “discovered,” Port Barton sits on the verge, maintaining a rare and sincere charm. I spent more than a couple of nights admiring this appeal with fellow travelers. We wandered down the dark, empty streets finding cozy eateries and commenting on how nice it was to be left alone without tricycle drivers or tour guides hounding us for their next commission.

Boat tours are available daily, and you can find a captain on the beach to negotiate a price – roughly half the price of a tour in El Nido, if done properly. Currently, the town of Port Barton only has electricity from 5pm until midnight, though some of the hotels have generators to supplement. I was told that by the end of 2016 new generators will help to provide the town with electricity 24 hours a day, who knows if that will happen on schedule! Despite the lack of electricity – and therefore wifi – there is plenty of infrastructure to support what is sure to be a growing tourist market in the town. The beach is lined with cool hotels and cafes; I even found this adorable tree house on the beach for $20/night.

Flower Island | Nomadic Boys

We visited the Philippines in 2015 and completely fell in love with it. So so many islands to explore. Our favourite from the ones we visited were the islands just off Palawan, in particular, Flower Island.

Flower Island is a tiny island around 40 minutes speed boat ride from the Tay Tay harbour on Palawan. It is located right in the heart of a pearl farm, which we got to visit during our stay there. The Philippines specialises in producing golden pearls, which is a very complex process taking over 2-3 years to produce the perfect shape and color golden pearl.

There’s only ever a handful of people on the island: a few locals and tourists like us coming to soak up the Robinson Crusoe like feel of the place. The island is surrounded by untouched and very healthy coral, making it a paradise for snorkelling. And the sunsets, every evening…incredible! We loved our time here and definitely want to return.

Under the Waves around Moalboal, Cebu |  Art of Scuba Diving

Diving in Moalboal is something you don’t want to miss. I dove in a lot of great locations around the Philippines, but Moalboal possibly had the greatest diversity! From the incredible and famous Sardine Run, to overloads of turtles, and fun little wrecks, there was always something new and exciting to see. On one single dive just off shore from my dive resort, I counted no less than 20 turtles, some small and some enormous.

There’s even a purposely sunk little air plane in one dive site, that makes it a unique dive, and on the same site there are countless nudibranch sightings and other macro critters. When not diving, the beaches around Moalboal offer some great white beaches, nice bars, and tasty restaurants. To get there, it is about a 4 hour bus ride from Cebu City.

Caramoan Peninsula |  365 Travel Dates

These days the Philippines travel buzz is all about Palawan, especially El Nido, but another deserving part of the Philippines archipelago is the Caramoan Peninsula . Camille and I visited Caramoan two years ago, and on a spontaneous trip with our families we ended up back there earlier this year.

The location of the reality show Survivor helps prove its worth as an off-beaten-track destination with a high dose of raw beauty and empty beaches. The active adventurer won’t be left disappointed, as you can go island hopping, snorkeling, rock-climbing, kayaking, caving, and any other water activity you can imagine.  For those looking for less adventure than Survivor you can pop into one of the many home stays in the Caramoan town. Given it’s remote location, tourism shouldn’t negatively affect the area for years to come, but with that said the best time to come is now.

Swimming with Turtles on Apo Island |  Don’t Forget To Move

We spent six months in the Philippines so we have a long list of recommendations for travelers heading that way. Our all-time favorite spot, however, would have to be Apo Island in Negros Oriental. On the coast of this small island one of our biggest bucket list items came true – swimming with wild sea turtles ! The locals set up a marine sanctuary just off the shore to protect these beautiful sea creatures after the turtle population was decimated by hunting.

We swam side by side with dozens of turtles, watching in awe as they floated around, munching on algae. Although the island itself is tiny (there are no main roads or cars!), it’s a popular day trip for snorkelers and scuba divers. Not as many tourists explore the town on the interior of the island, however, but we highly recommend it. We loved exploring the narrow alleyways, watching the kids fight spiders and chatting with older locals who have been on the island for decades. We couldn’t recommend it more!

Getting a Visa for the Philippines

For the most part travelers visiting the Philippines won’t need to obtain a visa if they intend on visiting the country for 30 days or less. Travelers from Australia, Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Western Europe and UAE citizens can enter the Philippines and obtain a 30 day visa on arrival given they have a valid passport with 6 months before expiry, proof of a return flight out, a hotel booked and sufficient funds to sustain their time while in the country.

That said, if you plan on staying in the Philippines for longer than 30 days you will need to get a visa. We recommend researching your specific country to find out the visa requirements before planning a trip. In a lot of cases you might be required to obtain eTA travel permit. For example, the Philippines eTA for UAE citizens is easy enough to obtain, but you’ll need to make sure you organize it before you leave on your trip. Thankfully the wait time is typically only 3 business days.

Don’t forget your swimmers! Check out our GUYS and GIRLS packing list for SOUTH EAST ASIA!

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28 thoughts on “philippines travel itinerary for 2021: the ultimate bucket list”.

Love love the Philippines! Can’t wait to get back. Second El Nido, it’s AMAZING!

We can’t wait either! Especially back to El Nido!

Hey! Everyone says go to El Nido but what was your form of travel getting there? I’ve heard it’s either a 6 hour boat ride or a 6 hour can ride. It sounds worth it though. What was your adventure?

6 hour bus from Puerto Princesa. Is a terrible ride, but would travel for days to get there if i had too. Stunning!

I´ve been on Palawan in June 2015 and fortunately the road to El Nido is paved and much better now. If you’re heading north from El Nido (which i strongly recommend 🙂 ) it was a different story..

Great post with amazing tips. If only we knew all this before… We just returned from the Philippines and it looks like we have to go back. Theee is so much more to see.

We did a few islands in the Visayas. Loved Siquijor and Malapascua.

Oh well, that means you have an excuse to go back again haha. Glad you had fun! We didn’t get to Siquijor, but heard it was really beautiful. Thanks for the comment 🙂

Oh man, I’ve been wanting to go forever and you’ve all just made me even more desperate!

It’s time Katie! So many options to choose from 🙂

Siquijor Island! Stay there and do the day trip to Apo Island. Great places to stay, great sunsets, large enough to explore by motorbike, and amazing waterfalls!

Great suggestion. Next time!

Hey Jules & Christine! As someone who lives in the Philippines, I truly envy both of you for being able to do these adventurous experiences. I’m actually making a promise to myself that I should explore the Philippines more and enjoy what the Philippines can offer.

When you go back to Cebu, you should definitely visit Kawasan Falls. Kawasan Falls is located at Badian, Cebu. What I love about this falls is how clear and how blue the water is! It actually looks like the drink, gatorade. HAHAHAH. To add to this experience, you can even do canyoneering.

Thank you for this suggestion Gene!

Great post and amazing pics. Unfortunately I have never been in the Philippines but it´s on my bucket list. I hope I will visit some of the islands in the Philippines next year.

So much to see in the Philippines! Living in Hong Kong, it’s very convenient to go there, only a couple of hours. So far I’ve only seen Boracay for a weekend, but I’m really looking forward to explore more… Your list is very inspiring!

Good list! Try the islands off the eastern side of Luzon, Jomalig, Polillo and Cagbalete to name a few.

Ahhh I suggest u check out the pristine beaches at Tablas Island, Romblon <3 If ever you find yourself in Bora, it's a 30-minute boat ride from there, but there are also direct flights from Manila. God, it's only slightly short of heaven

I lived in the Philippines for six years and loved every bit of it. The beaches were definitely my favourite, including Coron in Palawan, Tamaraw Beach in Puerto Galera on Mindoro, and the small Island of Romblon. One thing I would recommend if you want to visit but have an aversion to extreme heat is to spend some time up in the mountains. There are plenty of beautiful places like Baguio, Banaue (world famous rice terraces!), and Bagabag which offer genuine Filipino culture, food, and scenery without the typical tourist beach experience.

Thanks Dawn, great tips! Unfortunately we didn’t make it up there, but next time 😀

Nice list! Experiences the Philippines quite some time but still haven’t heard of many of these places before – definitely sound like great places to visit. We particularly enjoyed Palawan a lot – would add the beautiful island of Siquijor here as well 🙂 Thanks for the inspiration.

Great list… I’ve been in the Philippines last year and loved them..

Hi! A proud Filipino here. Glad you enjoyed our country. If you happen to plan another trip to the Philippines, you might want to consider islands in Luzon like Romblon and Marinduque, and Camiguin Island in Mindanao.

Wow great photo’s. The Philippines are on the top of my list! Hope to visit it soon, looks amazing. x

Hi! My fiance and I are thinking of going to the Philippines for our honeymoon this fall. Specifically, Palawan. Do you know the name of the tree house in your post? We would love to stay the night in it but I can’t seem to find it! Loved your post and I think it made the decision for us!

I believe it may have been Ausan Beach Front Cottages in Port Barton. But if you want a really rad place to stay in Palawan, check out The Birdhouse in El Nido. A really awesome place. Tell them Jules and Christine from Don’t Forget To Move sent you and they’ll look after you 🙂 Have a wonderful time in the Philippines!

Thank you for writing about Apo Island. 🙂 and Yes, Siargao is one of the places in the Philippines where you just want to go back. Glad you enjoyed your stay and helping other people decide to have their vacation in the Philippines.

Fantastic list! Philippines sure has lots of gorgeous islands to visit. The only place that I’ve visited in your list are Cebu and Bohol. Too bad though that I haven’t tried board paddling and scuba diving there. But still, I’ve enjoyed their scenic beauty during my stay there. Glad you had an awesome time!

Nice article! I have gone for a holidays to Philippines with my family. It is such a wonder full experience. By reading your blog I am recollecting my holidays trip.

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40 Philippines Bucket List Destinations That You Must Visit

By: Author Ruben Arribas

Posted on March 14, 2024

Categories Philippines

Finally we decided to do our Philippines bucket list. Where should I go? What I can’t miss in the Philippines. In this blog post we will tell you all the things to do in the Philippines and places that you must visit. Click here to book activities in the Philippines with Klook !

Read here what to wear in the Philippines  and  Best Beaches in the Philippines !

Read here the  best places for diving in the Philippines and  Philippines off the beaten track !

Table of Contents

WHERE TO STAY IN THE PHILIPPINES

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Philippines Bucket List

For this Philippines bucket list we will include the most popular tourist spots in the Philippines and a few off the beaten path. We will start from Batanes the North en part and we will finish in Mindanao.

Batanes is a remote island in North of the Philippines. It’s popular as a wedding destination and we enjoyed of amazing landscapes there and magical sunset. This sunset is at Rolling Hills one of our favorite Batanes tourist spots. Also Marlboro country is another place in your Philippines bucket list that you can’t miss when visiting Batanes.

2. PAGUDPUD

We have been visiting twice Pagudpud so far and it’s one of our top tourist spots in the Philippines. It’s so quiet and great place to take pictures. Most of the tourists are locals. The beaches are so beautiful and the sunsets are so colorful. Plus there are many places to visit around Pagudpud which keeps us busy for a few days always that we go to Pagudpud.

3. BANGUI WINDMILLS, ILOCOS NORTE

Bangui Wind Farm is a  wind farm  in Bangui, Ilocos Norte. The wind farm is   created to supply electricity to the province.Thus, the windmills are not only beautiful to look at; they are also useful and environmental tools used to supply electricity.

The beach is so windy an ideal for taking pictures. To get Bangui windmills from Pagudpud is 25 kilometers ride.

Vigan is a city in the Philippines located in Ilocos Sur. It’s known for its preserved Spanish colonial and Asian architecture. And because of its beauty and its well-preserved Spanish-era streets, Vigan has been listed as a  UNESCO World Heritage Site . Great place to walk around, try local food and visiting museums to know more about the Filipino history.

5. HUNDRED ISLANDS, PANGSINAN

This group of 123 islands is a popular destination in the Province of Pangasinan. Apart from enjoying the views, you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling and there is a pilgrimage island. Most of the tourist are locals and you can even enjoying overnight camping if you wish.

Hundredc Islands isn’t very popular for foreigners. But make sure you add in your Philippines bucket list.

Read here to know more about  Hundred islands !

6. LA UNION

La Union is  one of the most popular spots for surfers . But this place is more than just its beautiful waves! There are many things to do apart from surfing. The nightlife is great and there are beautiful beaches in Bacnotan just 10 kilometers far from La Union.

 7. ZAMBALES

Zambales is popular for their beaches. You can do island hopping visiting amazing beaches like Anawangin and Nagsasa Cove. Also part of the island hopping are Camara Island ans Capones Island.

If you want to have an awesome experience, you can camp in the beaches. Bring your own food and water, there is no electricity in some of the islands. You can also do surfing and if you want more relax time enjoying the resorts in Subic.

Read here our favorite Zambales tourist spots and things to do in Subic!

Beautiful  beaches in Bataan  and amazing sunsets in Bataan. So much history in the Philippines in this Province. Bataan is popular because of the resorts for getaways from Manila and Clark. There is so much to explore plus is close from Angeles City in Pampanga where we are based.

Read here our favorite  Bataan tourist spots !

After visiting Banaue and Sagada, you might want to go on a trip to Baguio City, the Summer Capital of the Philippines. It is a famous place for its temperature, beautiful views, and of course, strawberries!

If you are available, try to visit during the month of February because it is when the month-long Panagbenga Festival is celebrated! Panagbenga Festival is also known as the Flower Festival and it is the most awaited festival in Baguio City.

Read here  Baguio tourist spots !

10. BANAUE RICE TERRACES

Banaue is one of the most popluar spots in North Luzon. This is the perfect place if you want to take a break from the city and inhale fresh air, feel the cold breeze, and feed your eyes with stunning views. Banaue and Batad rice terraces are amazing and it’s great to get lost around the area!

Hike the downtown up to Banaue Viewpoint because it really feels good to be at the top of the mountain! Banaue is one of the spots where you will realize how beautiful nature is. You should also try watching Ifugao cultural shows and dance to the sound of gongs.

Read here  things to do in Banaue !

Sagada is 3 hours away from Banaue. Tourists are encouraged to go here from Banaue during daytime as transportation might be quite difficult during the night. It was a great experience riding jeepneys full of people and sometimes you have to go on the top.

It is famous for the hanging coffins, exploring caves, waterfalls, rice terraces, lakes, and rich heritage and culture. It is also a popular spot for locals during the holy week, as a pilgrimage.

12. TAAL VOLCANO, BATANGAS

You will fall in love with the views from the viewing point in Taal Volcano, but you will fall in love more with the view from the Red Lava Viewing Point, where you can view the crater of the volcano. No worries if you do not like hiking. It was just an easy hike, that even a kid can do it.

Now if you love volcanoes and lakes, then it is recommended for you to visit Taal Volcano in  Tagaytay . It Is the 2 nd  most active volcano in the Philippines and a popular tourist spot in Batangas . Now days isn’t allowed to hike anymore since last eruption in 2020 but you can see the views from Tagaytay of Taal Lake.

13. ANILAO, BATANGAS

Ah, one of our favorites! We loved our diving experience in this quiet barangay in Mabini, Batangas. It is just a 3-hour drive from Manila and is a famous spot for diving enthusiasts. You can also do snorkeling here, as the water is clean and clear. It’s the perfect spot to relax after a long week. The picture above is from Sepoc Island!

14. CALAGUAS ISLAND, CAMARINES NORTE

You just get to Calaguas Beach and you feel in paradise. Those colors in the water a long beach with white sand. And if you have the opportunity as we had to stay almost alone. Only two boats in Calaguas Beach made our experience incredible.

Avoiding high season and weekends you will be calm and quiet in Calaguas Beach. Enjoying Calaguas Beach was our favorite in the list of things to do in Calaguas Island. A must in your Philippines bucket list if you love off the beaten path.

15. MAYON VOLCANO, BICOL

This volcano is one of the things the Philippines boasts. It is an active, perfect-cone volcano that is famous to tourists. Aside from the Mayon Volcano, don’t forget to taste the delicacy of the Bicolanos- spicy foods. You can even find chili ice cream here! Would you dare to try it?

16. DONSOL, SORSOGON

Donsol is famous because it is known as the home of  Butanding  or the Whale Sharks. When you visit Donsol, you shouldn’t miss diving and swimming with the whale sharks.

Don’t worry because they are friendly creatures. Just don’t do anything that will stress or scare them.

17. COTIVAS BEACH, CARAMOAN

What a beautiful beach next to Guinahoan Island. The water is clear and you can do snorkeling. The beach is clean and there is an entrance fee of  50 PHP  for parking the boat. If you want to rent a cottage is only  50 PHP .

We just stayed swimming, taking pictures for long time in this beach since we loved it. And we only saw 2-3 boats doing island hopping in Caramoan that day. It was our favorite Caramoan tourist spot in the island hopping and we spent a few hours.

18. SUBIC BEACH IN SORSOGON

We recently visited the southern part of Luzon and we got surprised to visit Subic Beach. It’s popular because of the Pink colors in the sand with blue waters. You can get there in the island hopping in Matnog . And we totally recommend to spend the day in this beach for us is one of the best beaches in Luzon.

19. PUERTO GALERA, MINDORO

Why we can recommend to visit Puerto Galera? If you want to relax this is your place in the Philippines. It’s not very far if you are staying in Manila.  Puerto Galera beaches  are famous for diving and snorkeling and it was good. This is White Beach and it’s the first beach of the list of best beaches in Luzon that we visited together. 

Of course island hopping is another popular activity since there are other smaller islands surrounding Puerto Galera that you can go to and explore.

20. DITAYTAYAN ISLAND, CORON

Ditaytayan Island is an amazing sand bar is more than an hour boat ride from Coron. You can visit in a tour also  expedition tours  are visiting as we did. We enjoyed the island almost for ourselves flying the drone.

You can also swim in the clear waters. Entrance fee  150 PHP . We enjoyed one of the best beaches in Coron for ourselves with nobody else around. Read here  Coron tourist spots !

21. DUMUNPALIT ISLAND, PALAWAN

Dumunpalit Island is one of the best islands that we have ever seen. It’s almost not getting tourists yet. You have to go to Maricaban port by motorbike, tricycle or van. From there you can get a boat 1 hour and 30 minutes to Dumunpalit Island.

The boat costs  3000 PHP  and the entrance fee is  200 PHP  per person. The water is so clear and you can stay overnight if you are bringing a tent. In our list of best beaches in Palawan could be Top 1 easily.

Read here  how to get to Dumunpalit Island !

22. EL NIDO, PALAWAN

This is on the top of our in our Philippines bucket list despite of its actual location being on the southern part of Luzon. We just can’t help it because it is one of our favorite places in the world! Our favorite are Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon (Rachel’s picture above).

You will seriously forget all the problems you have once you step on the clear waters and white sand beaches of  El Nido . It was once a quiet place north of Palawan but because of number of people visiting here, it was developed but still beautiful!

23. PORT BARTON, PALAWAN

The sunsets are amazing in Port Barton. The island hopping is one of our favorite in the Philippines. You can see turtles snorkeling and swimming. And if you want an amazing experience you can enjoy camping. The beaches are so perfect with white sand and blue water. Make sure you add to your Philippines bucket list.

Read here  things to do in Port Barton !

24. Underground River Puerto Princesa

Puerto Princesa is the capital of Palawan and Underground River is the most visited part of the province. It is famous worldwide for its  UNESCO World Heritage Site – also known as Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park. You will see unbelievable limestone formations here as you explore the underground river.

Read here our favorite  Palawan tourist spots !

25 BALABAC ISLANDS

Balabac Islands are so beautiful. Great drone pictures, clear water for snorkeling and quiet place to stay. Balabac is located at  South of Palawan  with  40 000 population . Balabac is a paradise to discover in Palawan.

There are 31 islands where you will enjoy amazing island hopping. Clear waters, amazing sunsets, great snorkeling spots and our favorite sand bars in the Philippines.

More Philippines Bucket List in Visayas

26. bantayan island.

You should also consider visiting  Bantayan Island  in Cebu if you really love beaches! This is a famous place for snorkeling and diving because of their clear waters and white sand. You can just relax on the shore or rent a motorbike to explore the island.

27. MALAPASCUA

Just like in Bantayan, activities you can do in Malapascua are diving, snorkeling, swimming and relaxing. We loved to dive and snorkel here because of its clean and very clear waters. The picture above is from Langog Beach our favorite place in Malapascua Island.

We hope they retain the cleanliness of the island. Read our blog post to be guided on what  activities to do in Malapascua .

28. KAWASAN FALLS

If you have seen those turquoise blue waterfall pictures on Instagram, that probably is Kawasan Falls in Badian, Cebu. This spot is very famous to locals and foreigners because of its beauty and the adventure it offers to visitors.

Popular activities here include swimming, canyoneering, riding a raft, and of course, eating Cebuano food. Read our blog post to know  how to get to Kawasan Falls  from different parts of Cebu.

29. AGUINID WATERFALLS

If you like chasing waterfalls and adventure you can’t miss Aguinid falls in Cebu. It’s located in Sambogan and there are 7 levels of waterfalls you have to get a local guide to go around. And apart from the adventure you will get amazing shots.

30. OSMEÑA PEAK

A beautiful hiking in Osmeña Peak in Cebu is a tourist spot in the Philippines that you can”t miss. There are mini Chocolate Hills and you can camp to wait for an epic sunrise. Make sure you check the weather since the weather is so rainy.

31. MOALBOAL

There are many tourist spots beaches to see in Moalboal . Our favorite ones were Pescador Island where you can snorkeling, see dolphins and sardines.

32. LAMBUG BEACH, MOALBOAL

There are beautiful places to visit around Moalboal like Kawasan Falls and Pescador Island. But our favorite tourist spot in Moalboal was Lambug Beach. We enjoyed an empty beach full of colorful starfishes everywhere. White sand and clear water is waiting for you.

33. APO ISLAND, NEGROS ORIENTAL

Enough with the whale sharks, ha! If you want to swim with the sea turtles, then you should go and visit Apo Island in Dumaguete. Apo Island will give you the best photos- aerial and underwater. Make sure to equip yourselves with the best camera to capture the beautiful Dumaguete.

Click here  to see what activities we did in this town.

34. SIQUIJOR ISLAND

We had fun in Siquijor visiting churches, waterfalls, and beaches in Siquijor as it will give you a break you deserve from the tiring city life!

Recommended beautiful beaches in Siquijor are Salagdoong Beach, San Juan Beach, and Paliton Beach (picture above).

35. KALANGGAMAN ISLAND, LEYTE

Kalanggaman Island is a small, quiet island but it didn’t fail to strike us with its beauty. The most beautiful part about this island is its sandbar and very clear waters. We enjoyed so much taking underwater shots.

What we love the most is that you can camp here (for a fee) for an overnight stay. You get to rest and relax in peace and enjoy the beauty of nature. What a catch, right?

Read here  how to get to Kalanggaman Island !

36. CHOCOLATE HILLS, BOHOL

We really loved the beautiful Chocolate Hills of Bohol! This is one of the most famous landmarks of the Philippines that you must see. When it rains, the hills turn chocolatey brown in color, which explains why it is called the Chocolate Hills. You can also relax in the beaches in Panglao.

Read our  full travel guide to Bohol .

37. BORACAY ISLAND, AKLAN

Boracay is not just popular to the Philippines, but to the whole world. People love visiting Boracay Island because of its white sand beach and clear, blue waters.

There are many things to do in Boracay – snorkeling, diving, island hopping, riding a banana boat, riding a jet ski, visiting the oceanarium, parasailing, and the list goes on! You will really enjoy your stay in Boracay, whether alone, with loved ones, or with friends.

38. SAMAL ISLAND, DAVAO

A pride of the south, Samal Island! This is one of the places a traveler should go to when they visit Mindanao, Philippines.

The views here are priceless, and the locals are welcoming. We loved snorkeling, diving, and island hopping. We also loved the local food of Samal. This place is definitely worth the visit and we recommend Samal Island as one of the places to visit in the Philippines for couples!

39. CAMIGUIN ISLAND

Camiguin island is a paradise to discover in your Philippines bucket list. From Mantigue Island where you can enjoy snorkeling to White Beach popular for the sand bar. If you want to relax in the island Hibok Hibok Hotspring will be your place when it’s getting cold in Camiguin.

Read here our favorite  Camiguin tourist spots !

40. SIARGAO

Siargao became in one of the most popular places to visit in the Philippines. This beautiful island is a must to explore. You can surf, relaxing, swimming, island hopping and visit the best tourist spots in the Philippines in Siargao. You can get by plane from Cebu and there are also ferries coming from Surigao.

Feel free to use our links for discounts. Using our links will help us to continue with the maintenance of the website and it will not cost you anything. Thanks for the love guys.

Happy travels!

About the Author : Ruben , co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues to share his travel experiences alongside his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.

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The ultimate Philippines bucket list: 20 places to visit

The Philippines is one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

Because it’s so diverse! You’ve got world-class beaches, UNESCO listed rice fields, top scuba dive and surf spots, and IN-CRE-DI-BLE nature.

Whether you’re a fan of adventure or simply looking to relax, the Philippines can offer it all at an affordable price .

In this post, I’ve shared the ultimate Philippines bucket list with all the best places to visit in the Philippines.

Ready to dig in?

Let’s go.

This post contains referral links for products I love. Adventurous Miriam earns a small commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase through my links. I appreciate your support ♡ Learn more

Table of Contents

Philippines bucket list

The Philippines is an absolute must if you’re looking to experience a magical tropical paradise.

From swimming with whale sharks to island hopping tours , there are plenty of amazing activities that you can add to your Philippines bucket list.

I’ve listed 20 of the most unique experiences and unforgettable memories that you can have during your trip. I’ve included a bit of everything so you’re guaranteed to experience the best of the Philippines.

Getting around in the Philippines

The Philippines consists of more than 7.500 islands so getting from A to B requires planning. There a three main ways to get around:

• Flights 
• Vehicles (taxi, tricycle, tuk-tuk, scooter)

Ferries are a great way to get to nearby islands, like Coron and El Nido in Palawan, which can be reached within a few short hours. Boracay, located on the opposite side of the country, requires an international flight, but they’re reasonably priced. Flying is the best way to get around quickly.

Once you’re on the island, I suggest renting a scooter. It’s quite cheap. Getting to and from airports and ferries is done by taxi, tricycle or tuk-tuk.

Best time to visit the Philippines

The best time to visit the Philippines is in the dry season from December to February. I would avoid visiting from August to mid-October as this is Typhoon season.

1. Swim with whale sharks in Donsol

Whale sharks are the world’s largest – and most majestic – fish, and you can find them in Donsol , in Southern Luzon island or Sogod Bay in Southern Leyte.

From November to May/June, peaking from February to April , you’ll be able to spot them from a boat or have the chance to swim with them.

In Donsol and Sogod Bay (near Bohol ), you can visit them responsibly, knowing that the activities are overseen by two local NGOs.

2. Meet the tarsiers in Bohol

Tarsiers are the world’s smallest (and cutest) primate, known for their big round eyes. A tarsier is the size of a hand.

Tarsiers are endangered and live only a few places around the world. One of those places is Bohol in the Philippines.

They’re the main reason we went to Bohol in the first place and we soon learned that they’re a main attraction on this island. Here’s how you can visit the Bohol tarsier responsibly.

3. Visit a pink beach in Sila island

Have you heard of pink beaches? They’re found in Iran, Turkey, Bermuda and Indonesia, just to name a few. And there’s one in the Philippines, too.

On Sila island, the sand is pink, which makes it look like it was made for Instagram. Talk about a unique destination!

It got its salmon/flamingo colour from tiny red coral pieces and shell fragments from sea creatures being swept onto the shore and crushed by nature.

Bring your snorkeling gear and jump in the clean and tranquil water.

4. Discover the world’s best beach in Boracay

I once saw a photo from Boracay lined with palm trees and thought WOW – I seriously need to go there! So, we booked a trip shortly after and I can honestly say that Boracay is the most beautiful beach I’ve ever visited. It has spectacular views!

And I’m not the only one who think so. Condé Nast Traveler ranked it in the top 5 of the world’s best beaches.

Boracay island has a lot of water activities, and don’t even get me started on the insane sunsets . They’ll ruin you for life.

5. World-class diving in Palawan

Taking about postcard-worthy beaches. Palawan is another Philippine island with amazing beaches and water. What sets Palawan apart from Boracay is the top diving destinations!

Puerto Princesa and El Nido are the perfect place to find captivating macro wildlife, stunning caverns and vibrant fringing coral reefs below the water.

Whether you’re an experienced diver or just beginning, this is one of the best places in the world to go diving.

6. Hike Mount Pinatubo

Have you ever heard of Mount Pinatubo?

It’s a volcano 87 km from Manila. In 1991, Mt. Pinatubo erupted and literally created Lake Pinatubo, which is formed by the crater and filled with blue monsoon water.

If you’re in Manila, you can join a day tour with off-road driving and hiking in the volcanic landscape. The journey begins with an hour-long jeep ride and continues with a 5.5km trek to the stunning crater lake at the summit.

Depending on your fitness level, this usually takes around 2-3 hours to complete.

7. Go island hopping

With over 7,000 different islands in the Philippines, it’s basically impossible NOT to island hop. However, some of the islands are more suitable for it than others.

Island hopping in Bohol is pretty spectacular if you like dolphins and swimming with sea turtles. But the most popular place to visit several tropical islands in a day is Palawan. This is one of the most beautiful places in the world.

• Go island hopping in Port Barton
• Go island hopping in El Nido
• Go island hopping in Coron island

8. Swim with sea turtles

Have you ever swum with sea turtles before? I still remember the first time I tried it and it’s just one of those things you can never try too many times.

In the Philippines, you might be lucky to spot one when you’re out island hopping, snorkeling, or scuba diving.

But if you want to be sure to meet a sea turtle or more, these are the best places to find them (the top spots are Apo and Balicasag Islands , which you can visit on a day trip):

• Balicasag Island in Bohol
• Moalboal in Cebu
• Siquijor Island in the Visaya
• Anilao in Batangas

9. Explore the mysterious Calbiga caves

Dive into the mysterious depths of the Calbiga Caves – the largest cave system in the Philippines, and second largest in Asia.

Spanning 900 km 2 and 11 km long, this karst formation was first discovered in 1987 by a group of Italians in Samar. The cave system has  12 caves .

10. Go surfing in Siargao

With its white sand beaches and raging waves, Siargao island is a premier destination for surfers from all around the globe.

With both small and large reef breaks, along with Cloud 9’s world-class waves , Siargao has become known as the Surfing Capital of the Philippines.

You can surf the waves all year, but the peak period for Cloud 9 is from September to November. One of the best things about Siargao is that it’s perfect for both novices and pros. Book a surf lesson here.

11. See the Chocolate Hills

The Chocolate Hills of the Philippines are one of the most unique sights on this Philippines bucket list. As such, they’re declared a National Geological Monument and dubbed as an 8th Wonder of the World.

With their cone-shaped grassy mounds, they cover the landscape on the island of Bohol .

During the dry season, the hills turn from vibrant green to a chocolate brown – hence the name. They’re a good reason to visit the Philippines.

12. Discover an underground river

Did you know that Palawan has a UNESCO-listed underground river?

The Puerto Princesa Underground River emerges from the sea and is one of the longest navigable freshwater rivers in the world.

If the weather permits, you can take a guided tour through the river and see snakes, bats, and swallows that are unique to this ecosystem.

13. Visit amazing waterfalls

You can’t visit the Philippines without seeing at least one waterfall.

Every region has minimum one, so they’re always within reach. Iligan City even goes so far as to nickname itself the “City of Majestic Waterfalls” because it has no less than 20 waterfalls in its vicinity. Some of these waterfalls are still hidden gems.

These are some of the most beautiful and unique waterfalls in the Philippines (and the rest of Southeast Asia):

• Asik-Asik waterfall ( find it on a map here )
• Merloquet Falls ( find it on a map here )
• Maria Cristina Falls ( find it on a map here )
• Kawasan falls, close to Cebu city ( find it on a map here )

14. Dive with thresher sharks in Malapascua

Are you a diver? Then you’ll like Malapascua island.

Not only do you get pristine beaches with natural beauty and crystal clear waters, but this small island is the only place in the world where you can dive with Thresher sharks!

These mysterious deep sea dwellers prefer swimming at depths well-below recreational and technical diving limits, which makes Malapascua a rare treat for wildlife watchers!

15. Go cave swimming

In the Philippines, you can swim in grottos!

Explore hidden caves in Panglao or swim in the blue waters of Sumaguing cave in Sagada or the Sohoton Cove National Park.

No matter which cave or grotto you choose, it’ll be a unique experience that you won’t get from swimming in any of the country’s beaches.

16. Discover the WW2 shipwreck of Lusong Gunboat

Lusong Shipwreck is an underwater paradise in Coron. This WWII vessel has been transformed into an incredible dive site, with the nearby Lusong Coral Garden being one of the best reefs in the area.

Both places are great for freediving and snorkeling , too!

17. Visit the Banaue rice terrraces

Nestled on the mountain slopes of Ifugao in Luzon, you’ll find the majestic Banaue rice terraces.

They were carved over 2,000 years ago by the Ifugao people and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995.

Sadly, the terraces began to deteriorate as many of the villagers migrated to more urban areas. In response, UNESCO listed them as ‘World Heritage in Danger’ and launched a major restoration project.

This initiative worked, and sustainable tourism is now being promoted so that you can experience the Banaue rice terraces all year round!

18. Zip lining in El Nido

Zip lining is always fun, and even more so when the surroundings look amazing like in the Philippines.

You can try zip lining many places in the Philippines, but on this tour , you get to zip line over the sea, explore the Underground River I mentioned above, and enjoy a paddleboat tour through a mangrove forest.

19. Visit the hanging coffins in Sagada

Remember how I said the Chocolate hills were one of the most unique things on this Philippines travel bucket list?

Well, this might take first place.

In Sagada, you can experience something truly unique – the hanging coffins of the indigenous people of the Igorot tribe. This ancient burial practice entails placing a deceased relative in a coffin and nailing it to the side of a cliff, because it’s believed to bring them closer to their ancestral spirits.

Although this ritual is still practiced by the elders, it has become increasingly rare with fewer and fewer members of the younger generation following this tradition.

Whether you take part in a guided tour or visit on your own, experiencing this uncommon burial ritual and the local culture is one of a kind.

20. See fire flies in Puerto Princesa

Go on a magical journey in Puerto Princesa through a firefly tour . The tour starts around 5:30pm-6:30pm, with pick up at your hotel before embarking on boats to explore the river.

As you glide along the river, you’ll can see fireflies that light up the night sky – creating a glowing ambience.

The tour includes dinner and ends between 9:00pm-10:00pm, where you will then be dropped off at your hotel.

Ask me anything about this Philippines bucket list! I’ll do my best to answer.

More posts from the Philippines you might like

• The perfect 10 day Philippines itinerary
• How much does a trip to the Philippines cost?

Why you should experience island hopping Bohol

• 10 fun things to do in Panglao
• The perfect 3 day itinerary for Boracay Island
• Budget for 2 Weeks In The Philippines
• Helmet Diving, Boracay: Everything you need to know
• The perfect Bohol 3 days itinerary
• The Insanely Beautiful Sunsets of Boracay
• How to visit the Bohol tarsier responsibly

Miriam Risager is the founder of Adventurous Miriam. She has traveled to 62 countries in the past 18 years and has done most of it solo. She helps over 100,000 people per month plan their travel adventures across the world.

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One comment.

Hi Miriam, you have incredible lists of places to visit in the Philippines. I have been in the Philippines for 5 years and I never heard about Sila Island. I am from Switzerland by the way. That is quite shocking for me. It looks beautiful. Certainly, there is more to discover on this tropical island. Thank you for sharing this in your post. As I shared my personal experiences and passion for traveling in the Philippines too. The hanging coffins in Sagada is quite interesting.

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What are you looking for?

23 best things to do in the philippines [ultimate bucket list].

The Philippines is definitely one of my favourite countries in the world.

Because there is simply so much to do there!

It’s got everything you could possibly want; stunning beaches, amazing snorkelling spots, friendly people, cheap rum and SO much more. 

Best of all, it’s not expensive and is far from being over-touristy!

This makes it the perfect backpacking destination no matter what your budget.

We visited for 4 amazing months and got to do so many amazing experiences. As such, we wanted to share with you what we believe to be the best things to do in The Philippines.

And hopefully this travel guide will help you plan your own unforgettable trip , including all the best Philippines attractions.

First up...

For transfers anywhere in The Philippines, you can find the best availability and prices with 12GoAsia .

Getting Around The Philippines

If you want to experience all of the incredible sites below, then you’re going to need to know how to get around!

Well, you’ll need to use a combination of…

• Ground transfers

For example, spots like Coron and El Nido in Palawan are just a few short hours by ferry, and it’s the cheapest and easiest way to get across.

However, Siargao is on the other side of The Philippines and you’ll need to catch an internal flight.

But don’t worry, AirAsia offers cheap flights between most islands, so long as you book at least a few weeks in advance.

When you’re out exploring the individual islands in The Philippines, your best bet is to hire a moped to help you get around.

I also recommend searching with 12GoAsia to find the cheapest transfers between destinations in The Philippines.

They offer up the best prices on all means of transport, so you can use that to decide which is best for you.

Also Check Out: Getting Around The Philippines: All Your Questions Answered!

Sorting Accommodation In The Philippines

Typically speaking, it’s easy to find affordable accommodation in The Philippines.

In fact, there really is something for everybody no matter where you choose to visit.

If you're backpacking The Philippines on a budget , then you’ll find cheap hostels and homestays everywhere you go.

But if you’re happy to spend a little more, then there is the chance to splash out on some really incredible hotels, with sea views.

Possibly the best place to stay is on Paolyn Houseboats in Coron (scroll down to number 3 in this guide to learn more).

For help booking the best accommodation, we’ve put together some useful guides on where to stay. Check them out here…

• Where to stay in Siargao
• Where to stay in Siquijor
• Where to stay in El Nido
• Where to stay in Bohol
• Where to stay in Coron

Budget Choice

Luxury pick, 23 best things to do in the philippines.

Without further ado, let’s get stuck into what to do in The Philippines!

1. Go Island Hopping

The Philippines is made up of over 7,000 islands; so island hopping is the best way to explore what this unique country has to offer. 

When it comes to island hopping, you’ve got opportunities everywhere, and I’ll highlight some of my favorite island hopping trips in The Philippines.

Siargao Island Hopping 

This was my favorite island hopping trip in all of The Philippines, and the biggest highlight was Guyam Island. 

Siargao means “small” island; and while it’s small, it’s incredibly beautiful. 

In fact, if I could own any island, then this would be it!

Siargao Island is surrounded by stunning clear water, there are two natural swimming pools and it’s packed with coconut trees... 

What’s not to love!?  

You’ll also get to visit Naked Island & Daku Island on every Siargao island hopping adventure .

We recommend heading on this private tour which includes pick-up and drop-off in General Luna.

El Nido Island Hopping 

El Nido is definitely one of the most popular places to visit in The Philippines. You'll be overwhelmed with choice when it comes to island hopping tours too, as it's one of the most popular things to do in El Nido. 

There are 4 main trips to choose from, but Bradley and I did tour A, and it was epic !  

You get to discover the stunning Seven Commandos Beach, kayak in Big Lagoon, have lunch on a secret island and so much more.

If you want to try a different route, then you can pre-book your tour on the Tour C itinerary. Charting a private boat, you’ll head to many epic spots including Secret Lagoon Beach and Matinloc Island.

Coron Island Hopping 

Lastly we have Coron which was another of my top island hopping choices in The Philippines, and I think it’s because we had a private tour. 

We got to see some of the most famous sights such as Kayangan Lake and the Twin Lagoons; with no one else around! 

Truly unforgettable.

We suggest booking this group tour to Coron , which includes all transport, a buffet lunch and visits to sites like Siete Pescados and Kayangan Lake.

Of course, there are other amazing island hopping opportunities on all The Philippines islands you visit, so make sure you find time for at least one.

2. Discover The Chocolate Hills

The Chocolate Hills in Bohol are definitely one of the more unique things to see in The Philippines. 

They are also one of the most famous and popular Bohol tourist spots.

These are natural phenomena and they are basically large mounds that have formed to look like hills. 

They stretch for more than 4 km and are brown in color during the dry season, which gives them their name of Chocolate Hills .

If you visit in the wet season, they’ll be green given the vegetation is more lush and overgrown.

You can head here with this private tour which includes your lunch, all transportation as well a bonus visit to the Tarsier Conservation Area to spot Midget Monkeys!

I’ve heard people online claim they were disappointed when visiting because they thought the hills would be actual chocolate. 

To avoid disappointment, I’m here to tell you, there is no actual chocolate!

The drive to the Chocolate Hills is pretty beautiful and this area of the island is very jungle-like, which is a cool contrast to the many water-based activities that The Philippines tends to offer. 

The Chocolate Hills are located on the island of Bohol , and the closest major city is Tagbilaran City which is a one hour drive south from the hills.

There are a bunch of different viewpoints and areas to see the hills from, so you’ll be spoilt for choice. 

Read more in Bradley’s guide on the best things to do in Bohol .

3. Stay On Your Very Own Paradise Houseboat

This was one of the major highlights of our thrilling adventure in the Philippines and it was an activity that we actually stumbled upon pretty randomly. 

When you search for accommodation in Coron , you’ll soon discover it’s all on the Coron mainland, not on or near “Coron Island”. 

Well, that’s all but one: the epic and unique Paolyn House Boat . 

Because it’s a floating structure, it isn’t breaking any rules, and is currently the only form of accommodation allowed permanently in the waters right next to Coron Island. 

We had the chance to stay on this houseboat and it was truly amazing. 

You’re nestled in a small cove on the main island and have access to stunning waters, coral and nature, as soon as you step out from your bedroom door! 

Another awesome thing about staying here is that you can get to all the famous sights on a typical Coron Island Hopping tour, before the first tourist boat even docks . 

We had Kayangan Lake all to ourselves, and we could kayak to Twin Lagoon from our accommodation!

You also have pristine snorkeling spots that are only accessible by those staying on the houseboat.

The staff can even arrange for you to meet the local indigenous tribes who live on Coron Island, which would be a pretty unique experience. 

Do not hesitate to book a stay here !

It’s one of our most unforgettable experiences from traveling as a couple and truly one of the best things to do in The Philippines. 

4. Explore The Wonderful Island Of Siargao

It’s really hard to pick the best island in The Philippines, but I get pretty close to choosing Siargao! 

It is bursting with things to see and do and it’s no surprise that some backpackers end up staying for months because they fall in love with the island. 

Siargao was actually voted as one of the most beautiful islands in all of Asia, and it’s in part thanks to the thousands of coconut trees that are found here.

We spent 4 nights on Siargao and saw so many of the best Siargao tourist spots. 

This included a trip to the beautiful Sugba Lagoon .

Bradley also swang at the Insta-famous Maasin bridge, we got awesome pictures at Coconut ViewPoint, did an epic island hopping tour (that I mentioned above) among many other amazing things. 

Siargao is also a really awesome island if you want to meet other backpackers. 

It’s got a Bali-like vibe to it as the streets are lined with restaurants, bars and cool shops; plus it’s a surfers dream. 

Some of the biggest surf competitions are actually held here in October, and it’s a great place to learn how to surf too. 

If you’ve only got time to visit a select few islands in The Philippines, then I suggest you make Siargao a top priority. 

We highly recommend heading on this all-adventure tour around Siargao , where you’ll visit Kawhagan Island, Pamomoan Beach as well as Sugba Lagoon.

5. Visit Breathtaking Waterfalls

I’m sure you’re aware that The Philippines is home to some pretty epic waterfalls . 

They’re all over Pinterest and Instagram and it’s no surprise why. 

Brad and I have seen A LOT of waterfalls since we started traveling, so it takes a lot for us to be impressed by one now. 

Well, we were impressed by many of the waterfalls in The Philippines for various reasons. 

I’ll take you through my top 3 that should definitely make your Philippines itinerary. 

Cambugahay Falls In Siquijor 

This waterfall is Bradley’s favorite, simply because it’s so much fun! 

This is a three-tiered cascading waterfall with various levels, that’s honestly very picturesque (especially with a drone from above); but the reason people love Cambugahay Falls is thanks to the swings. 

You can swing and jump to your heart's content into these waterfalls and for adrenaline lovers, this is a perfect spot. 

Bradley had so much fun swinging into the water, that he went to this waterfall twice when we were on Siquijor island!

Cambugahay Falls are just a 20 minute walk north from the town of Tigbawan .

Kawasan Falls In Cebu 

This is one of the most photographed waterfalls in all of The Philippines and it’s very popular thanks to Instagram. 

It’s famous for its pure blue water which honestly looks really cool. 

But, another reason Kawasan Falls is so popular is due to its canyoneering adventures. 

You can jump from various levels of waterfalls during a jungle trek and your final destination will be Kawasan Falls. 

If you’re up for this kind of adventure, then you can pre-book your spot here which includes all transport from Cebu City, lunch and all equipment needed whilst canyoning (including safety helmets).

This is one of the most popular things to do in Cebu, so if you want to visit this waterfall without the crowds, you need to be the first one at the ticket desk. 

Kawasan Falls are located some 106 km south of Cebu City , with the drive taking roughly 3 hours to complete.

Dagaman Falls in Bohol 

Bohol island is bursting with waterfalls and I’m pretty sure visitors are discovering new ones every year!

Well Dagaman Falls was shown to us by a local, which made the experience even more unique. 

If you’re looking for a waterfall that requires a scenic walk through the jungle, offers stunning views and places to swim, AND gives you the chance to jump from a height, then this should make your list of epic things to do in The Philippines. 

It’s just a one hour drive east from Tagbilaran City , making it a really easy trip to do!

Other great waterfalls in The Philippines that deserve a spot on your bucket list include...

• Cambais Falls, Cebu 
• Ingkumhan Falls, Bohol 
• Lugnason Falls & Zodiac Falls, Siquijor 
• Nagkalit Waterfall, El Nido 

6. Explore Some Of The World’s Most Picturesque Beaches

With over 7,000 epic islands, you would expect The Philippines to have some pretty amazing beaches … well the good news is, they do! 

The beaches in The Philippines are some of the best I’ve ever come across on my travels so far. 

There’s an epic beach seemingly around almost every corner, but to help narrow down your search, I’ll recommend a couple of my favorite beaches in The Philippines below.

Salagdoong Beach, Siqiujor 

Not only is the water super clear and blue in Salagdoong Beach, and the shores clean and comfortable, but this beach is famous for its dive board. 

It’s pretty high up and not for the faint hearted (i.e me), but Bradley had great fun jumping off into the beautiful water. 

There was once a slide that actually went into the water too, but this is no longer in use; I would definitely have used the slide!

Salagdoong Beach is located on the eastern coast of Siquijor Island .

Nacpan Beach, El Nido 

Nacpan beach is without doubt one of my favorite places to visit in The Philippines, and this is regarded as one of the top beaches in El Nido. 

It’s commonly regarded as the most beautiful beach in Asia , and honestly, it is. 

This beach stretches for 4 km lined with golden sand and palm trees. 

The water is warm, clean and clear and it’s a stunning place to enjoy sunset followed by a romantic beach dinner. 

You can even go glamping on the beach here , which looks amazing. 

Just writing about Nacpan beach makes me want to return! 

Some other beaches that I think are worth mentioning are the beaches on Coron mainland that often get overlooked. 

Coron island is packed with stunning beaches that you’ll discover on your island hopping adventures, so don’t miss out on Cabo beach and Bali beach on Coron mainland.

Nacpan Beach is located in the far north of El Nido , and is close to other awesome beaches such as Twin Beach and Dagmay Beach.

7. Learn To Surf

Before visiting The Philippines, I really never thought of it as a surfing destination. 

When you think of surfing in Asia, my mind often wanders to Bali , Japan, or even Sri Lanka , but The Philippines is also home to some great surf, and some awesome surfing competitions. 

The most popular tourist area to catch some waves is on the island of Siargao and you could easily spend weeks here surfing in all the different areas. 

But, it’s not the only surf destination in The Philippines, although it's the only one Brad surfed at. 

Other places include Surigao Del Sur, Guiuan and Calicoan Island, among others. 

You can discover even more surf locations in The Philippines right here . 

8. Go Hiking

When most people think of The Philippines, they think of water and water-based activities.

However, hiking is a popular activity all over The Philippines with plenty of amazing routes ; and on some islands you can even hike up volcanoes! 

I’ll admit, Brad and I didn’t do too much volcano hiking on our Philippines adventure, but we still managed a few notable hikes.

One notable short hike we did was up to the Coron Hollywood sign which is located on Mount Tapyas. 

This offers a really cool viewpoint of the island, is a great place to fly your travel drone and it’s a unique location to catch a beautiful sunset! 

Another popular spot is Mount Daraitan, which you can head to with this hiking expedition . Including round-trip transportation, you’ll also head up to the peak which is located at an impressive altitude of 2425 ft.

9. Relax In Hot Springs

Due to the location of The Philippines on the equator, it’s home to volcanoes; which results in some pretty cool hot springs. 

I actually love hot springs and if I know they’re in a country, I’ll hunt them down! 

There are hot springs in various locations across The Philippines, however some are actually too hot for people to bathe in, such as the ones located in El Nido. 

However, one set of really cool hot springs you can visit is the Manquit Hot Springs located on Coron mainland. 

These have been turned into a resort type destination which means they’re very well maintained.

They’re also VERY warm, so when it’s warm outside and warm in the springs, you can be sure you’re going to sweat! 

But this is definitely one of the more unique things to do in The Philippines and you should make sure you visit when in Coron.

Manquit Hot Springs are located just a 20 minute drive east of Coron Town Proper .

10. Go Snorkeling Over Untouched Reefs

Without a doubt, the most popular thing to do in The Philippines is to go snorkeling, where you can see all kinds of incredible species .

Before we went on our Philippines adventure, I was actually terrified of fish, but I’d always wanted to swim and see the coral and eventually learn to dive one day. 

So, I knew when I went to The Philippines I’d have to try. 

Well, by the end of the 4 weeks, I didn’t want to get out of the water and I am so happy I overcame my fear; because honestly, snorkeling in The Philippines is unbelievable and is a once in a lifetime opportunity. 

There are so many chances to practice snorkeling, that I couldn’t possibly list, or visit them all in this lifetime! 

But, I will mention my favorites that allowed me to see amazing fish and sea life. 

• Balicasag Island, Bohol: The Coral here was amazing, I saw thousands of fish, big and small and I even got to see the amazing nemo fish (real name, Clownfish!) 
• Coron Island: I have to suggest Coron island as a whole for snorkeling spots, because the whole area is bursting with beautiful coral; some notable areas include the Twin reefs & Coral Gardens. 
• Port Barton, Palawan : Brad and I swam with giant turtles here and it was bloody amazing! They’re such awesome creatures and having the chance to swim alongside them was a true bucket list experience. 

11. Swim With A Giant Shoal Of Sardines

This is definitely one of the more adventurous things to see in The Philippines and it’s one of those random things created by nature that we get to enjoy. 

There is a seaside town on Cebu called Moalboal, and one of the most popular things to do there is the Sardine Run, which means you’ll be swimming with thousands and thousands of sardines.

Bradley did this, as it didn’t totally appeal to me, but he said it was really cool! 

Unfortunately, we actually don’t have any great photos of it, because we stupidly didn’t bring our GoPro to The Philippines (honestly, one of our biggest regrets, don’t make our mistake).

Bradley also got to swim alongside 4 or 5 turtles when he was swimming underwater too! 

You can learn more about the Sardine Run and how to get there in this detailed guide .

12. Go Cave Swimming

On the island of Bohol (and many of the other popular Philippines islands), you’ve got the opportunity to go swimming in various types of caves . 

The water is clear, but it’s so deep that the idea of what’s underneath scares me. 

We visited Cabagnow Cave Pool which was actually closed for swimming as they removed the ladder to help you climb out. 

I’m not sure if it’s back in business yet, but not to worry, there are a couple of other caves in the area that you can swim in as well, including Tibaw Cave Pool and Hinagdanan cave pool.

Another great choice is Combento Cave, which is found on the island of Bohol. It’s just a one hour drive east of Tangohay along the south coast.

13. Take A River Cruise

If you fancy a romantic or scenic experience in The Philippines, then why not take a river cruise down the beautiful Loboc River in Bohol?

This is one of the most beautiful and tranquil spots in The Philippines.  

Brad and I searched for the entrance point to take a cruise, but ran out of daylight; however, we did get to view this beautiful river from various viewpoints. 

It’s truly stunning, peaceful and a great place to just slow down and relax. 

The Loboc River is located in the south-west portion of Bohol Island. The closest major city to Loboc (where the cruises depart from) is Tagbilaran City, which is just a 40 minute drive .

On a Loboc River cruise you can also opt for a package that includes your meals and drinks on board. 

You can choose to stay at some beautiful resorts along the Loboc River too, which look pretty beautiful to say the least!

14. Go On A Dolphin Watching Tour

I LOVE dolphins; I think they’re adorable, beautiful and they are so smart. 

When we went on a Bohol island hopping tour, on the boat ride to our first destination, we were suddenly greeted by beautiful dolphins swimming near the boats alongside us. 

I was very excited, and it was a wonderful way to start the day. 

You can take specific dolphin watching tours if you wish, but we were just greeted by them on route, which was cool.

There are other places you can see dolphins in the wild in The Philippines, including the Bago-Pulupandan Area, Negros Occidental and Sarangani Bay.

It’s also one of the most popular things to do in Puerto Princesa Bay.

If you are already in (or heading to) Bohol, you can join this dolphin-spotting tour where you can also see whales if you’re lucky!

15. Experience The Full Moon Party

If you love to party, then you’ll be happy to hear that The Philippines offers some pretty amazing spots to let loose late into the night. 

You’ll find lots of nightlife opportunities in Siargao and El Nido, where they even host Full Moon Parties. 

El Nido and Port Barton both host monthly Full Moon Parties and, whilst not as epic as the original in Thailand , they’re definitely worth checking out!

Just make sure you add another day into your El Nido itinerary to help recover. 

16. Swim In Some Of The Purest Lakes In The World

As well as stunning beaches and incredible sea life, The Philippines is home to some of the purest and most beautiful lakes and lagoons in the world. 

One of our favorites is Kayangan Lake .

This is actually known as the cleanest lake in Asia and I can vouch for that statement, it’s pretty darn clean! 

It’s also super beautiful and a really cool place to free dive because of how unique it looks underwater. 

Kayangan Lake is located on Coron Island , and is a 15 minute boat ride from Coron Town Proper.

Another one of my favorite spots in all of The Philippines is the Big Lagoon in El Nido. 

This stunning body of water is so pure, and an awesome place to swim, bob along or use a kayak. 

Closeby is the not-so secret Secret Lagoon, which is accessed through a small hole in the cliff-face. 

Just be aware of the hundreds of baby jellyfish that surround you...

They don’t sting badly, it’s more like someone constantly pinching you! 

You can head on this island hopping tour where you’ll visit the Secret Beach, go snorkeling in Bacuit Bay as well as have your lunch included. 

17. Learn To Dive

So, who goes all the way to The Philippines, an area famous for its diving opportunities, not just for fish and sea life, but for shipwrecks and more, and doesn’t learn how to dive? 

Brad and I never factored in the time to learn how to dive , but it’s honestly one of our biggest regrets. 

Not only did we miss out on some epic spots, The Philippines is one of the cheapest places in the world to learn how to dive… so the jokes on us! 

Anyway, we will learn one day and we will return to The Philippines! 

Here you’ll find all kinds of world-class spots around the various islands, so it’s just a case of doing your research.

Instead, we had to listen to other friends we met there telling us how incredible it was diving here, especially around famous spots in Coron that are home to WW2 planes and shipwrecks.

If you’re still unsure, then you can book this starter lesson on Boracay to get a feel for diving without committing to a full-on PADI course.

18. Take Time To Enjoy The Sunset

The Philippines is home to some of the most amazing sunsets you could ever hope to see.

I’ve mentioned many different places that would make great sunset spots, such as Nacpan Beach ; so try to catch as many sunsets as you possibly can when you are there. 

Some of my favorite sunset locations in all of The Philippines include: 

• Hollywood sign, Coron 
• Paliton Beach , Siquijor 
• Cabo Beach, Coron 
• Nacpan beach, El Nido 
• Santa Monica Pier , Siargao 
• Alona Beach, Bohol 

19. Capture Breathtaking Photos And Videos  

The Philippines is a photographer’s dream. 

Even if you’re not a professional (like Brad and I), you can’t help but take amazing photos because everything is just so picturesque !

One thing to note is that you should absolutely invest in and take a decent camera with you to capture your adventures. 

We took a lot of our photos on our Canon G7x Mark ii, which is a really good video camera as well, but we highly suggest you bring a GoPro with you because all the underwater footage you can capture will be amazing. 

If you’ve ever considered buying a drone, or have a drone, then this is the place to bring it. 

What’s amazing about The Philippines is that they actively encourage the use of drones . 

You can even rent them out in some places! 

There are endless, stunning droning opportunities all across the islands and you’ll witness some jaw dropping footage! 

Some of our favorite islands for droning included El Nido and its awesome island hopping opportunities , Coron, Siargao & Siquijor. 

20. Try The Local Cuisine

Filipino cuisine isn’t overly “fancy” and involves a lot of rice and beans; however, one thing that they do VERY well, is the epic Filipino beach BBQ.

If you go on any sort of island hopping tour in The Philippines, then chances are, your Filipino BBQ lunch is going to be included in the price. 

These are always freshly cooked with fresh fish, different meats, vegetables, rice, noodles and delicious fresh fruit. 

It’s truly wonderful and we loved each and every one of them! 

We highly suggest booking your spot on this island hopping tour . Here you’ll enjoy a traditional lunch between visits to incredible places such as Seven Commando Beach and Shimizu Island.  

Whilst exploring the Philippines, be sure to try out local dishes too such as Sinigang Soup , and even Balut if you’re feeling brave!

Also, Filipinos produce the best rum, ever. 

The rum in The Philippines is probably my favorite rum in the world and since it’s local, it’s very, very cheap! 

If you drink alcohol, make sure you try Filipino rum; we even had it free flowing on our Siargao island hopping tour!

21. Get A Beach Massage

There’s nothing more relaxing than lying on the beach as the sun goes down and getting a massage. 

The great thing about massages in The Philippines is that they’re very cheap (as little as $10) and are usually very good! 

We did a beach massage on Port Barton that was super relaxing and great value, and I’ve seen them offered on Alona beach in Bohol, Nacpan beach in El Nido and many others. 

We even had one at the airport when our flight was delayed!

“350 PHP for a 1 hour massage, while we wait for our flight?” Hell yeah!

If you’re after a more luxurious and all-inclusive experience, then you can also check out this list of the best spa resorts in the Philippines .

22. Swim With Turtles

Swimming with turtles has been on my bucket list for years, and The Philippines provides ample opportunities for that. 

We swam with turtles in Port Barton (among other places), but the experience in Port Barton was super special as it was the first time and it was epic. 

The turtles are giant, much bigger than I expected, but swimming alongside them was such a cool experience that I recommend to everyone. 

One of the most unforgettable moments we had in The Philippines. 

Here you can spot as many as 5 of the 7 sea turtle species found on the planet, including Hawksbill Turtles and Leatherback Turtles .

Bradley also spotted turtles in Cebu and our guide found some (but we couldn’t swim quick enough to see them) in Bohol; so there will be opportunities to swim with turtles all across The Philippines. 

Moalboal is one of the most renowned spots, so it’s worth heading here too when in Cebu.

You can pre-book your spot online with this turtle watching tour , where you’ll depart from Bohol to see both sea turtles and dolphins.

23. Get To Know The Locals

Filipinos have a reputation for being friendly, and they totally lived up to that. 

They are some of the most friendly people you could ever wish to meet, always smiling and happy to help when they can. 

We chatted to lots of brilliant locals and on more than one occasion I was offered rum (one time it was mid-afternoon, I still said yes). 

As you travel through The Philippines, you’ll soon discover that they love their basketball and there will always be children playing basketball somewhere. 

Well, when we were visiting Siquijor, we spotted some kids next to our accommodation playing basketball and we decided to join in! 

We were nowhere near as good as them, but we had a lot of fun just messing around!

So don’t be afraid to get involved and have a chat. This is one of our very best tips to have the most memorable time traveling around The Philippines!

Planning The Perfect Philippines Itinerary

If you want to fit in all of these incredible things to do in The Philippines, then you’re going to need an itinerary to follow.

Especially if you only have two or three weeks and want to squeeze in as much as possible!

Well, luckily for you, we have already put together an in-depth guide on how to spend 4 weeks in The Philippines .

In there, we give you the exact route we followed that took us to all of the sites above (plus more!).

We also offer a few suggestions on how to cut your route a little shorter if you have less than 4 weeks, but you'll still be able to cram in as much as possible.

So there you have it, my ultimate Philippines bucket list!

I hope you’ve enjoyed this post and it’s made you super excited to visit. 

If you have any more questions or suggestions on what to see in The Philippines, just drop me a comment below!

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Top 20 Philippine Tourist Spots for Your Travel Bucket List

The Philippines is home to so many world wonders and one-of-a-kind attractions, from the unique natural formations to pristine beaches and historical landmarks you won’t find anywhere else. Surely, there’s no shortage of Philippine tourist spots and things to do in our country.

With over 7,600 islands, you’ll probably have a hard time picking the places to add to your Philippine travel bucket list. So, we’ll make it easy for you with this rundown of the must-visit tourist spots in the Philippines depending on your interests.

Welcome to our home!

Famous Philippine tourist spots for nature lovers

1. puerto princesa subterranean river national park.

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park in Palawan was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 and became one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature in 2011. This complex cave system features an 8.2km stretch of underground river that slithers into the sea.

Part of the Underground River Tour is riding a small boat to see the enigmatic limestone karst formations and chambers while the guide shares some interesting tidbits as you cruise along.

When we entered the cave, it felt like we were transported to an underworld full of mystery and wonder. You should definitely check this off your travel bucket list.

JOIN UNDERGROUND RIVER TOUR

2. Banaue Rice Terraces

Often tagged as the 8th Wonder of the World, the Banaue Rice Terraces in the Ifugao Province is a breathtaking masterpiece carved and built by hand by the Ifugao people. Believed to have existed more than 2,000 years ago, it is considered the oldest and most extensive rice terrace in the world.

Seeing this wonder up close was one of the most awe-inspiring experiences we’ve had. This is one of the top Philippine tourist spots you have to see in your lifetime.

3. Hundred Islands

We’ve been to Hundred Islands in Pangasinan on two different occasions, and each visit was uniquely incredible. A Hundred Islands island hopping tour will take you to the many islands dotting the Lingayen Gulf, although only a few islands were developed for tourism.

JOIN 100 ISLANDS TOUR

On top of island hopping, you can actually do ziplining, kayaking, parasailing, and many more water sports activities here. If you want, you can even stay for a night or two by camping or renting one of the guest houses here including the Pinoy Big Brother House. You may read our Hundred Island guide to plan your trip to this national park.

4. Chocolate Hills

You don’t have to be a chocolate lover to appreciate the beauty of Chocolate Hills , one of the top Bohol attractions . The name came from its color that changes from grassy green to chocolate brown during the dry season.

More than a thousand hills are sprawling over a 50 sq km area in Carmen, Bohol. After seeing this geological formation right before our eyes, we can’t help but wonder how on Earth did they exist here? It is a postcard-worthy attraction you have to see for yourself.

And while you’re here, level up your experience by riding the Bike Zip, Tony Hawk, or Wave Runner at the Bohol Chocolate Hills Adventure Park .

5. Kayangan Lake

Kayangan Lake is probably the most photographed and well-loved tourist spot in Coron, and we can easily see why. With its crystal-clear brackish water (a combination of saline and freshwater), majestic karst landscapes, and rich ecosystem, it is a slice of paradise on Earth. Not to mention its reputation as the “cleanest and clearest lake” in the Philippines and the whole of Asia.

Kayangan Lake is usually part of the Coron Tour A where you’ll get the chance to snorkel in Coron’s clear turquoise waters and enjoy breathtaking nature views.

BOOK CORON TOUR

6. Hinatuan Enchanted River

Hinatuan Enchanted River in the Province of Surigao del Sur is the clearest river we’ve ever seen! We initially thought that eye-catching photos we saw online were highly edited, but we were surprised that it was really enchanting to see in real life.

Legend has it that this deep spring river is enchanted by deities who added jade and sapphire colors to the water. Urban legend aside, we absolutely enjoyed swimming in its clear waters and witnessing the fish-feeding session at 12pm.

Top Philippine tourist spots for adventure-seekers

7. kawasan falls.

Kawasan Falls is one of the top tourist spots in Cebu where you can have a picnic and take a dip in its ice-cold waters. You can kick your adventure up a notch by going on a thrilling canyoneering adventure .

TRY CANYONEERING

We did it and we must say that it was indeed bucket-list worthy. We screamed our hearts out as we jumped off cliffs and splashed on natural pools. Our trail ended with a sumptuous feast in Kawasan Falls.

8. Mount Pinatubo

Mount Pinatubo is an active volcano in the mountains of Zambales. It is called a “beautiful disaster” because even though its tragic eruption in 1991 destroyed so many lives and livelihoods, it has now become one of the top tourist spots in the Philippines, especially for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

We joined a Mt. Pinatubo tour where we hopped on a 4×4 vehicle across a vast lahar field before hiking up the scenic crater lake. You may read our Mount Pinatubo guide if you want to do this beginner-friendly hike.

JOIN MT. PINATUBO TOUR

9. Mayon Volcano

Mayon Volcano or Mount Mayon in Albay in the Bicol region is an iconic volcano famous for its perfect cone shape. Although it is an active volcano, it is greatly considered one of the top Philippine tourist spots.

Make your experience even more exciting by riding an ATV around the area. And while exploring Bicol region, why not pick up some Bicolano words and phrases ?

RIDE MT. MAYON ATV

10. Paoay Sand Dunes

Paoay Sand Dunes is one of the top Ilocos Norte attractions where you can hop on a 4×4 vehicle and go sandboarding . It is also a popular filming location for several films like Panday, Himala, Born on the Fourth of July, and Mad Max.

RIDE PAOAY SAND DUNES ATV

When we made our way here, we immediately felt like we were in a desert in the Middle East. It’s a rare sight you won’t normally encounter in our country so we cannot not include it in our list of top Philippine tourist spots.

While exploring Ilocos, it pays to learn some useful Ilocano words and phrases to help you interact with the locals and navigate the region.

11. Cloud 9, Siargao Island

If you love surfing, there’s no other place to go than Siargao, the surfing capital of the Philippines. One particular Siargao attraction that draws many travelers and surfing enthusiasts from around the world is Cloud 9 . It is touted as the best surf break in the country with its classic right-hand waves breaking over a reef.

Not to worry if you’re a surfing newbie — you can always join surfing lessons in Siargao with professional instructors to guide you. Surf’s up!

Best Philippine tourist destinations for beach bums

12. el nido, palawan.

We’ve been to many beach destinations in the Philippines but there’s nothing quite like El Nido in Palawan. The beaches and lagoons here are truly unparalleled. You have to join island hopping tours categorized as Tour A , Tour B , Tour C , Tour D , to reach specific islands where you can dive, swim, snorkel, kayak, or frolic at the beach.

The top El Nido attractions include the Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Secret Beach, Paradise Beach, Hidden Beach, 7 Commando Beach, Nacpan Beach, Shimizu Island, and Snake Island. But our favorite has to be Pinagbuyutan Island a.k.a The Survivor Island, which was one of the filming locations of the Survivor reality show.

Tip:  Looking for a place to stay in El Nido? Check out our list of the best El Nido resorts .

13. Boracay Island

Boracay Island in Malay, Aklan is consistently included in the list of the world’s best islands and one of the famous Philippine tourist spots. We aren’t even surprised. With its long stretch of white sand beaches, clear waters, and sunny vibe, you can easily fall in love with this tropical paradise.

It’s an all-in-one destination for all types of travelers. As foodies, our taste buds were pleased with the range of food choices here. Of course, we had to try the famous calamansi muffin and Jonah’s fruit shake.

Adventure-seekers will also enjoy water sports activities like parasailing , paraw sailing , jet skiing , and helmet diving . And, if you simply want to relax, stay in one of the luxurious Boracay resorts in Station 1 and Zero or Boracay hotels in Station 2 and 3 . There’s always something for everyone in Boracay!

14. Bantayan Island, Cebu

As Cebuano locals, we always regard Bantayan Island as a world-class beach destination that can rival Boracay. The four-hour road trip up north is definitely worth it, and we would always recommend it to friends who visit Cebu.

Bantayan Island features white sand beaches like Kota Beach and Sandira Beach and other unique natural attractions such as caves and mangroves. If you’re looking for a more laid-back island life, Bantayan is the place to go. We compiled a list of the best Bantayan resorts and hotels for you to call home.

15. Alona Beach, Panglao, Bohol

We can say that Alona Beach in Bohol’s Panglao Island is a smaller, less crowded version of Boracay Island. It’s our go-to beach destination outside of Cebu as it is just a two-hour ferry ride away. Read our Cebu to Bohol ferry guide for everything you need to know about riding a ferry to Bohol from Cebu.

BOOK FERRY TO BOHOL

We always enjoy the simple pleasures of walking on the beach and going on a food trip here. Bohol Bee Farm’s ice cream is a must-try — we particularly love their avocado and durian flavors.

16. Pink Beach, Santa Cruz Island, Zamboanga City

The Pink Beach of the Great Santa Cruz Island in Zamboanga City continues to be on our travel bucket list. We haven’t been there but some of our friends and relatives who are locals of Zamboanga City and Basilan recommend visiting so we can see its beauty ourselves.

We can’t wait to actually dip our toes in the pink coralline sand and swim in its crystal-clear waters. We’ll brush up on our Chavacano language , too, before going there.

Must-visit Philippine tourist attractions for history buffs

17. calle crisologo, vigan city.

Calle Crisologo is one of the top Vigan City tourist spots . In fact, it is almost always the starting point of every Vigan City tour . Strolling around the area felt like we were living in the Spanish colonial era with its cobblestone street, ancestral homes, and old shophouses.

JOIN VIGAN CITY TOUR

From Calle Crisologo, you can visit the rest of the attractions in the Historic City of Vigan — it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New7Wonders Cities , after all.

18. Intramuros, Manila

Another place that transports you back to the Spanish colonial times is Intramuros in Manila. Intramuros literally means “inside the walls” in Latin, hence the name “Walled City of Manila”, which defended the city from invaders in the late 16th century. Today, it houses the Fort San Santiago and Jose Rizal shrine.

We learned so much about Philippine history just by exploring Intramuros and entering the museum dedicated to Dr. Jose Rizal, our national hero.

To make your trip even more magical, ride a kalesa (horse-drawn carriage) for ₱350-500 per 30 minutes. And maybe practice your Filipino language before you go.

19. Magellan’s Cross, Cebu

Magellan’s Cross is one of the top historical attractions in Cebu where Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan and his troops planted the cross to signify the birth of Christianity in Cebu. Look up and you’ll see ceiling murals depicting the baptism ceremony.

To maximize your heritage tour in our hometown, why not join this Cebu City private day tour ? It already includes transfers and admission to Magellan’s Cross and other landmarks including Sto. Niño Church, Simala Shrine , Temple of Leah, and more!

JOIN CEBU CITY TOUR

And oh, while exploring Cebu, Central Visayas, and some parts of Mindanao, be sure to learn some basic Bisaya words and phrases to interact better with the locals.

20. Rizal Park and Shrine, Dapitan City

Aside from Rizal Park (Luneta) and Rizal Museum in Intramuros, another historical place to learn more about our national hero is Rizal Park and Shrine in Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte. This 16-hectare protected landscape was where Jose Rizal was exiled for four years.

The native casas (houses) originally built by Rizal that served as his residence, clinic, and other quarters were reconstructed and preserved. When we came here, we were so amazed at how Rizal lived a meaningful life full of talent, passion, and love for the country. This is really a great place to relive the life of our national hero and get inspired by him.

These 20 tourist spots in the Philippines are just the icing on the cake. There’s still so much more that awaits you in our beloved country.

So, which of these Philippine tourist spots will you add to your travel bucket list?

Want to have more fun in the Philippines? Join in the celebrations of these Philippine festivals and fiestas .

Philippines Bucket List: 12 INSANE Activities You Won’t Want To Miss

So you’re in “Philippines bucket list building” mode, are ya?

If so, you’ve come to the right place.

As you’ve probably realized, the Philippines is made up of TONS of islands , each with its own charm.

You could spend years exploring all it has to offer and still only scratch the surface.

That’s why today I’ve rounded up a handful of experienced Philippines travelers to share their absolute favorite bucket list experiences around the country.

Your job is to note down which ones look the most interesting and figure out how you can fit them into your itinerary.

(I wish I would’ve had this list before I went to the Philippines, as there are many incredible activities that I didn’t even know existed!)

Alrighty, let’s hop to it!

Got your Philippines packing list ready yet? If not, I got you covered… Click here for a list of all the things you should (and SHOULDN’T) take with you…plus a free downloadable checklist ! Also, don’t make the same mistakes I did during my trip, check out this list of Philippines travel tips to avoid having to learn them the hard way.

Table of Contents

#1 – Canyoneering in Cebu

#2 – firefly kayaking in bohol, #3 – island hopping in coron, #4 – island hopping in port barton (without the crowds), #5 – hiking mt. pinatubo, #6 – surfing cloud 9 in siargao, #7 – sardine run in moalboal, #8 – village exploring in sibaltan, #9 – adventuring in the secret balabac islands, # 10 – swimming with whale sharks in oslob, #11 – swimming with whale sharks (ethically) in donsol,  #12 – snorkeling in panglao , philippines bucket list tldr.

So you’re looking for an amazing travel experience in the Philippines , are you?

Not to worry…I’ve got you covered!

In Southern Cebu, in a city (municipality) called Badian, you can partake in an outdoor activity called Canyoneering.

What is Canyoneering?

Think of it as extreme hiking but in reverse. It’s a combination of repelling, swimming, hiking, and cliff jumping. You start by trekking (or zip-lining) through Cebu’s scenic outdoors and eventually start jumping off cliffs (into the water) anywhere between 10 feet to 65 feet in distance. It’s the perfect outdoor activity for any adventure-seeking adrenaline junkie.

But here’s the deal:

There no chickening out! Once you make the first jump there’s no way to get back. Not unless you’ve figured out an easy way to climb up a cliff or cave.

Once you begin your journey, the jumps will escalate to larger distances down as you progress. The best part, however, is that the last jump is right into one of my favorite waterfalls in Asia : Kawasan Falls.

So how do you organize this epic adventure?

It’s quite simple really.

Most people go through a tour company to organize transportation and sort things out ahead of time. But here’s a little insider tip:

If you cut out the middleman, it’ll be cheaper for you. Not only that, but you’ll be supporting local businesses as opposed to big tour companies and you’ll be stimulating the Filipino economy.

There are a handful of companies to chose from. The one I recommend is MCM Badian Canyoneering Services. They are a fun group and will gear you up with all the proper equipment. There are other options, but in my opinion, this is the best one for the price.

What about transportation?

If you’re going from Cebu City, you can take a Grab (rideshare app), Jeepney, or Taxi to Cebu South Bus Terminal near Elizabeth Mall.

Once there you can take the Yellow (Ceres) bus to Bato. It’s important to note that there are two bus routes to Bato. One via Barili and one via Oslob. You MUST take the one via Barili since the other bus doesn’t pass by Badian.

It should cost you around 150 PHP ($3 USD). The total trip time should be between 2.5 to 3 hours.

The cost of the tour itself is 1500 PHP ($30 USD) each or 1200 PHP ($24 USD) each for 3 or more people. You can either Hike for 35 minutes or Zipline for 1 minute to get to the starting point.

The course is 4-5 hours including equipment, food, locker room, showers, clean towel, and a hefty meal.

 I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

~ Ron Tuch, Red Pill Rebellion

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When planning a trip to the Philippines , the first activities that typically come to mind are visiting the country’s pristine beaches and hopping to far-flung islands for the day. But if you’re feeling adventurous and keen to do something a little different, consider booking a nighttime kayak excursion on the island of Bohol.

This isn’t just any ordinary kayaking trip—and it’s a must-do for any Bohol itinerary . You’ll paddle through the darkness on a river until you see a spectacular sight, unlike anything you’ve ever laid eyes on. The mangroves lining the banks of the Abatan River will suddenly appear as if they are glowing, like a Christmas tree.

It is at this spot where you can witness a phenomenon that is as uncommon as it is astounding: these sparkling mangroves are covered with hundreds of thousands of fireflies dancing about in their nightly mating ritual. As cliché as it sounds, it truly is a sight that can’t be described in words other than to say it is magical.

Kayakasia is an eco-friendly tour operator that takes measures like keeping group sizes small, using only a single red light, and using kayaks instead of motors to ensure they are not harming the fireflies or their ecosystem. Some other companies take motorized boats through this area, disrupting the fireflies and their habitat. If you do plan to include this once-in-a-lifetime adventure on your Philippines trip, be sure you’re going with a reputable tour operator, like Kayakasia.

An added bonus is that this activity is very budget-friendly. At just 2,450 PHP ($48 USD), this excursion, which includes 2-way transportation, a guide, all equipment, and a delicious home-cooked dinner is an absolute steal!

~ Katie, Two Wandering Soles

Just mention Coron to Filipinos as you travel around the island nation and watch as their eyes light up with beaming smiles. That’s because Coron is arguably the most beautiful place in Palawan, which was voted Best Island in the World by Travel + Leisure readers several years in a row.

There are dozens of awesome things to do in Coron, Palawan, from climbing 723 steps to the summit of Mount Tapyas and soaking your aches and pains away at Maquinit Hot Springs (both of which are on Busuanga Island) to snorkeling with Dugongs (a cousin of the Manatee) and scuba diving WWII shipwrecks. But the best way to explore this magical region’s countless remote islands, pristine beaches, and extraordinary coral reef systems is via an island-hopping tour, which can be arranged through any of the decent Palawan resorts and hotels . 

We took two island-hopping tours during our week in Coron. The first was through our resort, Club Paradise, which is located on its own private island just off the coast of Busuanga (about 35 minutes by boat). Included in the resort’s cost, this half-day tour took us to three different islands in the area, which change depending on the day. 

We started on uninhabited Diatoy Island, whose pristine white beach didn’t have a single footprint on it when we arrived in the morning. The scenery was spectacular both above and below the water, where we snorkeled and saw Angelfish, Clownfish, and Parrotfish right offshore. Then we moved on to Dimalanta Island, whose gorgeous corals were teeming with marine life, including an intensely colorful Mantis Shrimp. We ended our tour on Malpagalen Island, a.k.a. the Island Without Trees, which offered dynamic rock formations, dramatic limestone cliffs, and a small sea cave.

You can also book independent full- or half-day island hopping tours through a variety of local companies for 1600 to 1700 PH ($30 to $40 US). These vary from operator to operator, but typically include highlights such as Kayangan Lake (which is widely regarded as one of the world’s cleanest and most beautiful), Twin Lagoons, Malwawey Reef & Coral Garden, Siete Pecados Marine Park, CYC Beach and more. 

Note that most Coron island hopping tours do not include mask and snorkel gear, towels, or insect repellant, so you’re best off bringing your own. We also highly recommend bringing some sort of underwater camera, because snorkeling in Coron’s crystal-clear waters is otherworldly. 

~ Bret Love & Mary Gabbett, Green Global Travel

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Yes, it’s true that El Nido and Coron offer the most spectacular island hopping tours in the Philippines, but they are LOADED with tourists.

That’s way, if you’re looking for more peace and quiet, I highly recommend fitting Port Barton into your Palawan itinerary . It’s nearly as gorgeous as it’s more famous neighbors, but has essentially zero crowds (at least not yet…better hurry!)

And unlike El Nido and Coron—which don’t have nice beaches in the towns themselves—the beach in Port Barton is awesome.

Best of all, Port Barton is one of the best places to visit in the Philippines on a budget . Not only are the island hopping tours here cheaper than those in El Nido and Coron, but they also include alcohol (at least they do at Coconutz Tours, which I recommend).

Overall, if you want a cheaper, less-crowded alternative to El Nido, Port Barton should be high on your bucket list for Philippines.

Located in the boundaries of Zambales and Tarlac, Mt. Pinatubo is an active stratovolcano that has become a popular hiking destination in recent years. But who can forget its cataclysmic eruption in 1991 that is claimed by experts as one of the deadliest in history?

At present, climbers frequent the place for that unique and memorable experience. Mt. Pinatubo is not your typical trekking escapade as it involves venturing in an epic 4×4 ride, river crossing, scenic ascend, and immersing in a local community.

There are guided tours you can join for a cheaper and more convenient option that cost roughly USD 50. 

The trail of Mt. Pinatubo is recommended even for newbie hikers. After a quick briefing at basecamp, the 4×4 off-road adventure commences – a very bumpy and dusty ride. This will be followed by a two-hour trek. You will see the remnants of the catastrophe that happened long ago, eccentric and alluring at the same time. You will also pass by an Aeta village, a good resting point where you can interact with the locals (don’t forget to bring extra trail food to share with the children – they will surely like it).   

And the highlight of it all? The impressive crater lake with clear, blue waters. This is the main reason why you will hear people call Mt. Pinatubo a beautiful disaster. Inviting as the waters may seem, swimming is not allowed as the lake contains toxic substances such as sulfur.

If discovering a dangerously stunning volcano thrills you, then you should not miss hiking Mt. Pinatubo. 

~ Arrianne Guzman, Travel Habeat

Siargao Island is famously known as the surfing capital of the Philippines – and for good reason! The Cloud 9 wave is one that surfers travel from all around the world to ride, and it’s a must-visit if you’re even remotely into surfing. 

If you’ve never surfed before, it’s worth at least giving it a go while you’re in Siargao. Lessons cost as little as 10 US dollars per hour, including the board hire, so there’s really no reason not to try it out. Who knows—you may even pick up a new hobby to take with you around the world .

There are waves suitable for all levels, too, so you can go wherever you feel comfortable – and easily progress to harder waves when you’re ready. 

The Cloud 9 wave is just a short drive or trike ride from General Luna, the main town on the island Siargao. There are plenty of resorts to relax at along the strip between Cloud 9 and General Luna and it makes for a relaxing break (even if you don’t surf!). If you prefer to be surrounded by the action though, you might want to consider basing in town. 

When you’re ready to take a break from surfing, there are plenty of other things to do in Siargao . General Luna makes a great base for exploring all of the other amazing spots this island has to offer. Altogether, you’ll probably want at least three or four days to explore away from the surf. 

~ Jodie Dewberry, Alajode

Snorkeling is always one of my favorite things to do when traveling. That’s why when I was in the Philippines, I knew I had to go to Moalboal in Cebu to see the sardine run!

The sardine run is phenomenal. You’ll get the chance to swim with MILLIONS of fish moving in harmony right below you.

The best part about this amazing Philippines bucket list activity is that it’s completely free! 

Don’t forget to pack your snorkel set ( this backpacking guide will make sure you have everything you need for your trip)! If you don’t have your own snorkel set, you can rent one. 

To get to the sardine run in Moalboal, you just walk/swim out to the drop (where the reef starts and water gets deep). It’s only about 10m from the edge of the beach, so you don’t have to go far.

Once you make it to the drop, look down and you’ll see the fluid motion of silver fish moving in sync. It’s absolutely breathtaking and you can easily spend hours admiring these fish!

You can also scuba dive here, but if you’re on a budget, snorkeling is the better option because you can still see it all!

If you’re lucky, you may even get a curious sea turtle come by as well.

The sardine run in Moalboal was definitely one of the highlights of my trip to the Philippines, and if you go, I’m sure it will be for you too!

~ Naomi Beemsigne, Eat Love Explore 

One of the most amazing experiences that I have ever experienced was in El Nido, Palawan. While most people just stick to the main city and do the highlights, we decided to do a little bit more. Our adventure took us to a little village called Sibaltan . Situated a little distance away from the tourist area, the village isn’t the easiest to get to but any encumbrances that you may face on the way are well worth the quiet solitude that you will experience here.

We found ourselves riding our motorbike to Sibaltan early one morning. It was one of the most beautiful rides we have taken in the Philippines. After the hectic life that we had in city after city, this village was just the break we needed. With a beach walking distance away, great food at our accommodation and gorgeous sunrise after sunrise, we couldn’t have asked for more.

If you are looking for a place away from the hub-bub of the world than this is definitely the place for you. If you are worried that you will miss out on the popular attractions in El Nido , don’t worry, you can still head out on trips from here too. They may just take a little longer to get to. Take my word for it, Sibaltan is a little piece of paradise hidden away from the world.

~ Penny Fernandes, Globe Trove

Palawan is one of the most popular destinations in the Philippines due to the fame of El Nido, located at its northern end. However, almost no one realizes that to the south, there is an equally beautiful destination with far fewer tourists. So if you’re looking to get off-the-beaten-path during your trip to the Philippines, head straight to the southern end of Palawan, to the Balabac Islands . 

The Balabac Islands consist of 31 islands, many of which are uninhabited, that are connected by crystal clear water, miles of colorful coral, and a plethora of marine life. You’ll need to hire a guide/boat captain who will drive you around on a private boat to all of the secluded white and pink sand beaches. You’ll snorkel with sea turtles, watch as dolphins swim alongside your boat, and lounge on beaches with the softest golden sand. It’s the closest thing to a tropical island paradise that we’ve ever experienced!

You can expect to pay about $50 per person per day for your guided tour of the islands. They’ll provide you with simple accommodation, most likely a tent or rustic bungalow, and they’ll also provide all of your meals. You shouldn’t expect luxury in the Balabac Islands but that only adds to the appeal of this hidden gem.

Add the Balabac Islands to your bucket list now and visit them before the rest of the world discovers just how amazing they are! 

~ Nick & Val, Wandering Wheatleys 

The Philippines is one of the best places in the world to swim with whale sharks . Just off the coast of Oslob, a small town on the east coast of Cebu island, whale shark tours depart every morning. Being in the deep water with these magnificent gentle giants is undoubtedly a Philippines bucket list experience. 

The first paddle boats from Oslob depart around 6 a.m., but all visitors are required to listen to a safety demonstration first, to help protect the whale sharks. It is forbidden to be in the water for longer than 30 minutes at a time, and offenses like wearing sunscreen, using flashing lights, or touching the whale sharks can result in severe penalties. The 1000 pesos entry fee (~$20 USD) per person covers snorkeling gear, a life vest, and 30 minutes with the whale sharks. 

Before you book your trip to Oslob, be aware that swimming with the whale sharks here can’t be considered entirely ethical. The fishermen here feed the whale sharks, which encourages them to stick around instead of following their natural migration patterns.

On the other hand, depending on how you look at it, the positive effects of tourism are also helping this area.

Since tourists are so interested in swimming with the Oslob whale sharks, they have become well-protected and are no longer killed for their meat and fins like in the past. Tours like these also generate a lot of income from tourists, and profits help secure better futures for the Oslob fishermen and their families.

Make sure to educate yourself on the pros and cons of swimming with the whale sharks here before making your decision to visit or not.

Insider Tip : Stay at Sharky Hostel the night before you plan on swimming with the whale sharks. This hostel is located right next to where the tours depart, and the lovely hostel owners make sure their guests are on the first boats out into the water! 

~ Erika, Erika’s Travelventures

While Oslob has become the most popular destination for whale shark tourism in recent years, there’s an alternative, called Donsol, which sees fewer tourists and also fewer complaints about unethical animal tourism. Since Donsol is rather difficult to access in the far southeast corner of Luzon, not as many tourists choose to come here. It does have many benefits, though, especially if you are concerned about being an animal-friendly tourist .

The Whale Shark Interaction Eco-Tourism Project was set up in Donsol by the World Wildlife Fund and is monitored by marine conservation experts. While it’s not perfect, there’s definitely more of an effort made here to ensure that the whale sharks are not harmed.

Tourists are given a thorough briefing before boarding the boat and are instructed not to touch the whale sharks or get in their way, and not to use flash photography. A maximum of six snorkelers are allowed per boat, and in theory there should be only one boat per whale shark, although in my experience this was not strictly enforced.

The biggest difference between Donsol and Oslob, though, is that the whale sharks are not baited in Donsol. They come here of their own accord every year between November and June to feed on the plankton and krill that live in the Donsol River.

Of course, this means that sightings are not guaranteed, but you still have a very good chance of spotting the whale sharks if you come during the right season. It’s also a bit more expensive than Oslob, costing 3,500 PHP for a half-day boat rental, plus a registration fee of 300 PHP per person.

Coming face to face with a 9m (30 foot) long whale shark is an exhilarating experience that you will never forget. Just do your research first and follow the rules, so that you can enjoy the presence of these amazing creatures without causing them harm.

~ Wendy Werneth, The Nomadic Vegan

Located in the center of the Philippines, Panglao is a great destination for those who are a fan of snorkeling. You can book a tour for just $15 which will take you to 2-3 snorkeling spots including lunch and drinks.

One of the highlights of the tour is to snorkel and swim with the turtles at the Turtle Sanctuary. The place exists to make sure that the turtles are at the healthy population rate, they allow tourists to snorkel here as long as they are accompanied by the licensed tour guides to make sure no turtle will be hurt.

In the same spot is a big reef where you can find loads of fishes, amazing corals, and other sea creatures like sea horses and starfishes. The big reef stands tall which means if you can, you can snorkel on the side for a better experience. While people can also go diving.

Before booking the tour, make sure to speak to other travel agents or the locals who sell tours on the streets and compare the prices. The price ranges from 500 to 1000 pesos. You’ll often see travel agency selling the tour for 1000 pesos, but you can always bargain or find another option for cheaper covering the same tour and features. I paid 800 pesos when I did my snorkeling tour and had an amazing time.

~ Mary, Move to Vietnam

There you have it, folks! The top 12 activities everyone should have on their Philippines bucket list.

Let’s do a quick recap:

• Canyoneering in Cebu
• Firefly Kayaking in Bohol
• Island Hopping in Coron
• Island Hopping (Without the Crowds) in Port Barton
• Hiking Mt. Pinatubo
• Surfing Cloud 9 in Siargao
• Sardine Run in Moalboal
• Village Exploring in Sibaltan
• Adventuring in the Secret Balabac Islands
• Swimming with Whale Sharks in Oslob
• Swimming with Whale Sharks (Ethically) in Donsol
• Snorkeling in Panglao

These unforgettable activities are sure to keep you busy for at least a couple trips to the Philippines.

Happy adventuring!

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Mitch is your typical nomadic backpacker. Or at least, he was . But after stopping in Colombia to take “one week” of salsa lessons, his life took a sharp left turn. He met a cute Colombian girl in dance class, fell in love, and got married. Over half a decade has passed since he left his career to travel the world as a digital nomad, and he’s never looked back.

Nowadays, he’s the blogger behind Project Untethered — where he runs an awesome email newsletter and Youtube channel teaching adventure-craved wanderlusters how to escape the rat race, earn money from anywhere, and build an “untethered life”.

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Unlocking the Hidden Gems: Must-Visit Destinations in the Philippines for Your Travel Bucket List

|Destination | Description |

|————-|————-| | Boracay | Small island known for its white sand beaches and vibrant nightlife. Offers water sports activities such as snorkeling and scuba diving. | | Palawan | Renowned for its stunning limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and world-class diving spots. Features the Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. | | Cebu | Province with a mix of modern developments and historical landmarks. Explore the city of Cebu and nearby islands such as Bohol and Malapascua. | | Siargao | Hidden gem known as the “Surfing Capital of the Philippines.” Offers world-class waves, pristine beaches, and stunning rock formations. | | Banaue Rice Terraces | UNESCO World Heritage Site with terraces carved into the mountains of Ifugao. Showcases traditional farming practices and offers hiking opportunities. | | Chocolate Hills | Unique geological formation in Bohol comprised of perfectly cone-shaped hills. Offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. | | Mayon Volcano | Active stratovolcano in Albay known for its perfect cone shape. Visitors can hike to the base camp or take a scenic flight to admire its beauty. | | Underground River | Subterranean river in Palawan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Features unique rock formations and diverse ecosystems. | | Batanes | Archipelago province in the northernmost part of the Philippines. Known for its dramatic landscapes, rolling hills, and traditional stone houses. | | Siquijor | Island province famous for its mystical traditions and natural beauty. Offers enchanting waterfalls, pristine beaches, and centuries-old churches. | | Camiguin | Small island province known as the “Island Born of Fire.” Features volcanoes, hot springs, and stunning waterfalls. | | Dumaguete | University town with a laid-back atmosphere and a mix of natural and cultural attractions. Offers access to Apo Island and historic sites.|

Must-Visit Destinations in the Philippines for Your Travel Bucket List

What you will learn from this article Overview of the Philippines as a travel destination Top attractions and must-visit places in the Philippines Natural wonders, cultural experiences, local cuisine, adventure activities, off-the-beaten-path destinations, practical information, and inspiring travel stories related to the Philippines

The Philippines is a captivating country located in Southeast Asia, known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Comprised of over 7,000 islands, the Philippines offers a plethora of attractions and experiences that make it a must-visit destination for travelers. With its warm and hospitable people, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking sights, the Philippines is an ideal addition to any travel bucket list.

Top Attractions and Must-Visit Places in the Philippines

When it comes to must-visit destinations in the Philippines, there are several places that stand out for their beauty and uniqueness. Here are some top attractions that should be on your travel bucket list:

Boracay is a small island located in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines. Renowned for its powdery white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife, Boracay offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. Visitors can enjoy various water sports activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and parasailing. The island also offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses.

Palawan is often hailed as one of the most beautiful islands in the world, and for good reason. With its stunning limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and hidden lagoons, Palawan offers a paradise-like experience for travelers. El Nido and Coron are two popular destinations in Palawan known for their breathtaking landscapes and world-class diving spots. The Underground River in Puerto Princesa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another must-visit attraction that showcases the natural wonders of the island.

Cebu is a province in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines, known for its rich history and vibrant city life. The city of Cebu is a bustling metropolis with a mix of modern developments and historical landmarks. Visitors can explore the iconic Magellan’s Cross, stroll along the historic streets of Fort San Pedro, and visit the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, which houses the oldest religious relic in the country. Cebu is also a gateway to nearby islands such as Bohol and Malapascua, which offer stunning beaches and unique natural attractions.

Siargao is a hidden gem in the Philippines, often referred to as the “Surfing Capital of the Philippines.” This small island in the province of Surigao del Norte offers world-class waves that attract surfers from all over the world. Aside from its surfing spots, Siargao is also known for its pristine beaches, mangrove forests, and stunning rock formations. The island has a laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, making it the perfect destination for those seeking a tropical getaway.

Other noteworthy destinations for a travel bucket list

In addition to the top attractions mentioned above, the Philippines offers a multitude of other destinations that are worth adding to your travel bucket list. Some of these include the rice terraces of Banaue, the pristine beaches of Panglao in Bohol, the historical city of Vigan, and the picturesque landscapes of Batanes. Each of these destinations has its own unique charm and offers a different perspective of the Philippines.

Exploring the Natural Wonders of the Philippines

The Philippines is blessed with an abundance of natural wonders that will leave any nature enthusiast in awe. Here are some of the must-visit natural wonders in the country:

Chocolate Hills

The Chocolate Hills are a unique geological formation located in Bohol. Comprised of more than 1,200 perfectly cone-shaped hills, these natural wonders turn brown during the dry season, resembling chocolate kisses. Visitors can climb one of the hills to get a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.

Mayon Volcano

Mayon Volcano is an active stratovolcano located in the province of Albay. It is renowned for its perfect cone shape and is considered one of the most beautiful volcanoes in the world. Visitors can hike to the volcano’s base camp or take a scenic flight to get a closer look at its majestic beauty.

Banaue Rice Terraces

The Banaue Rice Terraces are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Philippines’ most iconic attractions. Carved into the mountains of Ifugao, these terraces are a testament to the ingenuity and engineering skills of the indigenous people. Visitors can hike through the terraces, interact with the locals, and learn about the traditional farming practices that have been passed down through generations.

Underground River in Palawan

The Underground River in Palawan is one of the New7Wonders of Nature and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This subterranean river runs for 8.2 kilometers within a limestone cave and is home to unique rock formations and a diverse ecosystem. Visitors can take a boat tour to explore the river and witness its natural beauty up close.

Additional natural wonders worth visiting

In addition to the mentioned natural wonders, the Philippines offers many more breathtaking sites to explore. These include the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best diving spots in the world, the Enchanted River in Surigao del Sur with its crystal-clear blue waters, and the Kawasan Falls in Cebu, where visitors can swim in turquoise pools surrounded by lush vegetation.

Immersing in Filipino Culture and Heritage

The Philippines is a country rich in cultural heritage and traditions. Here are some ways to immerse yourself in Filipino culture:

Festivals in the Philippines (Sinulog, Ati-Atihan)

The Philippines is known for its vibrant festivals that showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage. The Sinulog Festival in Cebu and the Ati-Atihan Festival in Kalibo, Aklan are two of the most popular festivals in the country. These festivals feature colorful street parades, traditional dances, and religious processions that highlight the unique traditions and customs of the Filipino people.

Historical Sites and Landmarks (Intramuros, Spanish colonial architecture in Vigan)

For history buffs, the Philippines offers a wealth of historical sites and landmarks. The walled city of Intramuros in Manila is a living testament to the Spanish colonial period, with its well-preserved buildings, churches, and cobblestone streets. Vigan, a city in Ilocos Sur, is known for its Spanish colonial architecture and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can take a stroll along Calle Crisologo, a street lined with ancestral houses that date back to the Spanish era.

Other cultural experiences to include in the travel bucket list

Aside from festivals and historical sites, there are other cultural experiences that travelers can include in their Philippines travel bucket list. These include learning traditional Filipino dances, trying Filipino martial arts such as Arnis, and visiting indigenous communities to learn about their way of life and traditional crafts.

Trying Local Cuisine and Street Food

No trip to the Philippines is complete without indulging in the country’s unique and flavorful cuisine. Here are some must-try Filipino dishes:

Filipino Food Specialties (adobo, sinigang, lechon, halo-halo)

Adobo is considered the national dish of the Philippines and consists of meat (usually pork or chicken) marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and spices. Sinigang is a sour soup made with tamarind, tomatoes, and various vegetables, often paired with pork or shrimp. Lechon is a whole roasted pig and is a staple in Filipino celebrations. For dessert, make sure to try halo-halo, a refreshing and colorful mix of crushed ice, sweetened fruits, jellies, and beans topped with evaporated milk and leche flan.

Popular Food Markets and Street Food Stalls

One of the best ways to experience Filipino cuisine is by visiting local food markets and street food stalls. In Manila, Mercato Centrale and Salcedo Saturday Market offer a wide array of Filipino street food, from grilled skewers to exotic delicacies. In Cebu, Carbon Market is a bustling market where you can find fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local snacks. Don’t miss out on trying street food favorites such as balut (boiled duck embryo), isaw (grilled chicken intestines), and fish balls.

Unique dining experiences and regional delicacies to explore

In addition to street food, the Philippines also offers unique dining experiences and regional delicacies. In Pampanga, known as the “Culinary Capital of the Philippines,” visitors can indulge in Kapampangan cuisine, which is known for its rich flavors and unique dishes like sisig (a sizzling dish made from pig’s head and liver) and bringhe (a local version of paella). Other regional delicacies to explore include the seafood dishes of Bacolod, the spicy cuisine of Bicol, and the Muslim-influenced dishes of Mindanao.

Engaging in Adventure Activities

For adrenaline junkies and adventure seekers, the Philippines is a playground of thrilling activities. Here are some adventure activities to consider adding to your travel bucket list:

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

The Philippines is a paradise for snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts. With its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life, the country offers some of the best diving spots in the world. Apo Reef in Mindoro, Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park in Palawan, and the waters surrounding Moalboal in Cebu are just a few of the top diving destinations. Snorkeling is also a popular activity, with many beach resorts offering vibrant coral reefs just a few meters from the shore.

The Philippines is a surfer’s paradise, with waves suitable for both beginners and advanced surfers. Siargao, known for its Cloud 9 surf break, is the most famous surfing destination in the country. La Union and Baler in Luzon, and Puraran Beach in Catanduanes are also popular surf spots. Surfing in the Philippines not only offers thrilling experiences but also allows travelers to enjoy the laid-back beach lifestyle and connect with the local surfing community.

Island Hopping

With over 7,000 islands, island hopping is a popular activity in the Philippines. Whether you choose to explore the islands of El Nido and Coron in Palawan, the Hundred Islands in Pangasinan, or the Camotes Islands in Cebu, each island offers its own unique beauty and attractions. Island hopping allows travelers to discover hidden lagoons, pristine beaches, and secluded coves, and is a great way to experience the natural wonders of the Philippines.

Other thrilling adventures to consider for the travel bucket list

Aside from snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing, and island hopping, there are other thrilling adventures that can be added to your travel bucket list. These include canyoneering in Kawasan Falls, Cebu, where visitors can jump off waterfalls and navigate through canyons, zip-lining across the Chocolate Hills in Bohol, and hiking to the summit of Mount Pulag, the highest peak in Luzon, to witness the breathtaking sea of clouds.

Exploring Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations

For travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations, the Philippines offers several hidden gems that are less crowded but equally stunning. Here are some lesser-known destinations to consider:

Batanes is an archipelago province in the northernmost part of the Philippines. It is known for its dramatic landscapes, rolling hills, and traditional stone houses. The province has a unique cultural heritage and is home to the indigenous Ivatan people. Visitors can explore the picturesque towns of Basco and Sabtang, go on scenic hikes, and experience the warm hospitality of the locals.

Siquijor is an island province located in the Central Visayas region. Known as the “Island of Fire,” Siquijor is famous for its mystical traditions and natural beauty. Visitors can explore enchanting waterfalls, pristine beaches, and centuries-old churches. The island is also known for its traditional healers and spiritual practices, making it a popular destination for those seeking wellness and relaxation.

Camiguin is a small island province in Mindanao, often referred to as the “Island Born of Fire.” It is home to several volcanoes, hot springs, and stunning waterfalls. Visitors can take a dip in the natural soda water pool, explore the sunken cemetery, and hike to the summit of Mount Hibok-Hibok for a panoramic view of the island.

Dumaguete is a university town located in Negros Oriental. Known as the “City of Gentle People,” Dumaguete offers a laid-back atmosphere and a mix of natural and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the underwater paradise of Apo Island, visit the historic Silliman University, and take a relaxing stroll along the Rizal Boulevard.

Lesser-known destinations that offer unique experiences

In addition to the mentioned off-the-beaten-path destinations, there are many more hidden gems in the Philippines that offer unique experiences. These include the pristine beaches of Calaguas in Camarines Norte, the idyllic island of Malapascua in Cebu, the pristine waters of Bucas Grande in Surigao del Norte, and the untouched beauty of Jomalig Island in Quezon. These destinations may require more effort to reach, but they reward travelers with untouched beauty and a sense of adventure.

Inspiring Personal Anecdotes or Travel Stories

• Personal stories that showcase the beauty and uniqueness of the Philippines
• Sinulog Festival in Cebu City
• Ati-Atihan Festival in Kalibo, Aklan
• Personal story: Exploring the historic walls of Intramuros and its Spanish colonial architecture
• Immersing in the rich history and culture of Manila
• Personal story: Trekking through the terraces and witnessing the breathtaking views
• Learning about the indigenous culture and sustainable farming practices
• Personal story: Exploring the Underground River and its stunning rock formations
• Discovering the diverse ecosystem and the importance of conservation efforts
• Personal story: Trying traditional dishes like adobo, sinigang, lechon, and halo-halo
• Exploring local food markets and street food stalls for unique culinary experiences
• Personal story: Surfing in the famous Cloud 9 surf spot and experiencing the island’s laid-back vibe
• Discovering hidden lagoons and pristine beaches
• Personal story: Exploring the picturesque landscapes and traditional stone houses of Batanes
• Experiencing the warm hospitality of the Ivatan people
• Personal stories that highlight the beauty, diversity, and warmth of the Philippines
• Encouragement to readers to add the Philippines to their travel bucket list

Practical Information and Tips for Traveling in the Philippines

Before embarking on your journey to the Philippines, it’s important to be prepared and well-informed. Here are some practical tips and information to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip:

• Currency : The currency in the Philippines is the Philippine Peso (PHP). It’s advisable to exchange currency at banks or authorized money exchange centers for the best rates.
• Language : The official language of the Philippines is Filipino, but English is widely spoken and understood, making it easy for travelers to communicate.
• Visa Requirements : Check the visa requirements for your country of residence before traveling to the Philippines. Most nationalities are granted a visa-free stay of up to 30 days.
• Health and Safety : It’s recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and take necessary precautions to protect yourself from mosquito-borne diseases.
• Transportation : The Philippines has a well-connected transportation system, including domestic flights, buses, ferries, and tricycles. It’s advisable to book transportation in advance, especially during peak seasons.
• Respect Local Customs : Respect the local customs and traditions. When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and observe proper behavior.
• Weather : The Philippines has a tropical climate, with the wet season occurring from June to November. It’s advisable to check the weather forecast and plan activities accordingly.
• Traveling Responsibly : Practice responsible tourism by respecting the environment, wildlife, and local communities. Avoid activities that harm marine life or contribute to environmental degradation.

In conclusion, the Philippines offers a diverse range of attractions and experiences for travelers from all around the world. From pristine beaches to vibrant cities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. With its warm and welcoming culture, delicious cuisine, and stunning natural beauty, the Philippines is truly a destination that should not be missed. So, if you are planning your next vacation, consider adding the Philippines to your list. Don’t forget to check out our other content for more travel tips and recommendations. Happy travels!

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IN PHOTOS: 8 PH lakes to add to your travel bucket list

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This is AI generated summarization, which may have errors. For context, always refer to the full article.

Our country is blessed with beautiful islands and beaches, some like Palawan and Boracay earning the world’s acclaim and a spot on travelers’ bucket lists. But do you know that we have breathtakingly beautiful lakes, too, with one recognized as one of the world’s most spectacular? 

From Luzon to Mindanao, here are some of the Philippines’ most beautiful lakes:

1. Kayangan Lake, Coron, Palawan  

Yes, Palawan does not only have picture-perfect beaches; it has picture-perfect lakes, too. The most popular is Kayangan Lake, recognized by the  Huffington Post as one of the most spectacular lakes in the world.

Surrounded by towering limestone cliffs dotted with greenery, Kayangan Lake is one of the cleanest bodies of water in the Philippines. The water is so clear that you can see through to the interesting rock formations beneath the surface. Though the sea is just outside Kayangan’s limestone borders, the lake is 70% freshwater, making it ideal for swimming. There are also caves to explore. (READ: Discovering the jewels of Coron ) 

How to get there:  Take a flight to Busuanga. From the airport, ride a shuttle to Coron town. Take the Coron Island Loop boat tour, which includes Kayangan Lake. An estimated ten-minute climb and descent through steps and a wooden walkway will take you to Kayangan.

2. Taal Crater Lake, Talisay and San Nicolas, Batangas

Taal, the world’s smallest active volcano, has a beautiful lake that can turn brilliant blue or silver-gray, depending on the weather. But more than its beauty is its interesting oddity – it is a lake within a volcano on a lake within a volcano.

This is because Taal Volcano is on Taal Lake, which, in turn, is on Taal Caldera. What is also interesting – and to some, mind-blowing – is that there is an island on Taal Crater Lake. This island, Vulcan Point, is the largest island within a lake (Taal Crater Lake) that is on an island (Taal Volcano) on a lake (Taal Lake) on an island (Luzon). Confused? Check the illustrations here  to understand better. 

The trek up Taal takes around 30 minutes to one hour. Its occasionally steep terrain can be tiring, particularly for first-timers, so those who would prefer not to trek can go on horseback.

How to get there:   There are several jump-off points to Taal; the most well-known one is Tagaytay. Take a Tagaytay-bound bus and get off at the rotonda . There are boatmen there offering round trip transfers to Taal Volcano.

3. Pinatubo Crater Lake, Botolan, Zambales  

Mt. Pinatubo, site of the second largest eruption of the 20th century, is also the location of this picturesque lake, the country’s deepest at 800 meters. Like Taal’s crater lake, its colors change, with turquoise its most beautiful. 

The lake can be reached through a sometimes dusty 4×4 ride across lahar fields, with otherworldly views of lahar -carved canyons. Lahar is the mud and debris flow from the volcano. After the 4×4 ride, a trek of around two hours will take you to the lake. You can find a detailed itinerary here . There is also an option of trekking only 15 to 30 minutes, particularly during the summer months, when the river bed is dry.

Swimming is not allowed at Pinatubo. It is also not a good idea to go during the rainy season, due to possible rock falls and landslides.

How to get there:  Ride any bus passing by Capas, Tarlac (e.g. Baguio). Get off at Capas Junction and ride a tricycle to the tourism office. Register there and a tour guide will be assigned to your group. Best to contact the tourism office ahead as the lake has a limit of 400 guests per day. You may also book a packaged tour from tour groups.

4. Twin Lakes of Balinsasayao and Danao, Sibulan, Negros Oriental  

These two crater lakes are separated by a narrow mountain ridge, making them twin lakes, especially when viewed from above. These two lakes are surrounded by four mountains. The name “Balinsasayao” is taken from the name of the bird which frequents the lake, and whose nest is also the main ingredient for bird’s nest soup. “Danao” means a lake or a lagoon. (READ: Hit the road: Cool off at these 5 PH waterfalls )

Balinsasayao is readily accessible while Danao can be reached by trekking. Visitors can ride a paddle boat to explore Lake Balinsasayao or trek across the forests around it.

How to get there: Take a flight to Dumaguete. Take a tricycle to the bus terminal and ride a bus to San Jose. Ask to be dropped off at the crossing point to the Twin Lakes. Then ask a habal-habal (motorbike) driver there to take you to the lakes.

5. Lake Apo, Valencia, Bukidnon

While the other lakes can be awe-inspiring not only in beauty but also in size, Lake Apo is quite small, with an area of only 24 hectares. And its size is what adds to its charm. 

Encircled by trees, grass, and some hills, Lake Apo’s shores are just the perfect place to sit and relax.

Lake Apo is actually a crater lake formed on an old volcanic cone, as it lies on a volcanic area and with Bukidnon’s well-known volcanoes like Musuan Peak as its neighbors. 

How to get there: Take a flight to Cagayan de Oro, then a shuttle to the city proper. From Agora terminal, ride a bus bound for Valencia or Davao then get off at Valencia terminal. Take a tricycle to the old terminal then from there, ride a Dologon-bound multicab. Ask to be dropped off at the jump-off point to Lake Apo, where you can find habal-habal drivers to take you there.

6. Lake Sebu, Lake Sebu, South Cotabato

Lake Sebu is like a giant lotus pond with its abundant greenery. Paddling across the lake on a dugout canoe in the early morning while the flowers are in full bloom and the soft sunlight shimmers on the water is an experience like no other. 

What makes this lake beautiful is also the rich culture of the indigenous peoples living around it, majority of them T’bolis. Experience not only the beauty of the lake but also the vibrant culture of its people. Take a look especially at the T’bolis’ T’nalak , their traditional hand-woven cloth whose patterns come from the dreams of their weavers.

How to get there: Take a flight to General Santos. From the airport, take a shuttle to the city proper. From Bulaong Terminal, catch a Yellow Bus Line bus to Koronadal, then get off at Marbel Terminal. Ride a Surallah-bound bus, then, from Surallah Terminal, ride a Lake Sebu-bound jeepney or van.  Take a habal-habal to the lake. (READ: Mornings made better at Lake Sebu )  

7. Lake Holon, T’boli, South Cotabato

Lake Holon is clean, clear…and cold. One of the cleanest inland bodies of water in the Philippines, it is located 1,350 meters above sea level, thus the cold waters. It is on the crater of Mt. Melibingoy, a sacred place for the T’boli indigenous people.

You need to trek four hours to get to Holon, so camping is a must for you to maximize your experience. Check out a detailed climbing itinerary here . Get up early to watch the sunrise; when you do, you might just realize why the T’bolis consider this place sacred.

At the moment, though, Lake Holon is being rehabilitated and will re-open to tourists mid-March next year.  

How to get there: Take a flight to General Santos. From the airport, take a shuttle to the city proper. From Bulaong Terminal, catch a Yellow Bus Line bus to Koronadal, then get off at Marbel Terminal. Ride a Surallah-bound bus, then, from Surallah Terminal, ride a T’boli-bound jeepney or van.  Take a habal-habal to Barangay Salacafe, to the jump-off point for trekking.

8. Lake Danao, Ormoc, Leyte

Lake Danao is a guitar-shaped lake fringed by lush forests, just around three hours from Tacloban. The area was very much affected by typhoon Yolanda, but today, locals claim that this place is still beautiful and frequented by visitors.

Watch the sky and the lake change color as the sun sets, and get up early to see and feel the mist rolling across the lake. 

The lake is accessible by jeepney or a private car from Ormoc proper. 

How to get there: Take a flight to Tacloban. Take a taxi or jeepney to the city proper, then take a van to Ormoc. (Note: As of this writing, Tacloban locals the writer talked to claim that transportation is now operational and the city is already being visited by tourists). At Ormoc’s market and public terminal, ride a jeepney or multicab bound for Barangay Lake Danao. The lake is just a five-minute walk from there. 

These are only a few of the Philippines’ many, many beautiful bodies of water, and naturally beautiful locations worth visiting. Have any stories to share? Let us know in the comments below.  – Rappler.com

  Claire Madarang is a writer, traveler and seeker. Her wanderlust takes her on adventures like backpacking for 7 weeks straight. Her seeking leads her to different wellness practices like meditation and healthy (mostly vegetarian) eating. Follow her adventures, tips and epiphanies at her blog,  Traveling Light .

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The Ultimate Travel & Life Bucket List – 35+ Adventures Everyone Should Live

Posted on Last updated: March 12, 2024

Looking for the ultimate travel bucket list experiences? You just found them!

If I’m not travelling, I’m at home dreaming of travelling . The more experiences I tick off my travel bucket list, the more new adventures I add to it.

Whether you’re at home or on the road, if you’re looking for some travel inspiration, this is the bucket list for you!

I’ve listed some of the most awesome adventures and experiences that you can have around the world, which I believe everyone should live at least once in their lifetime.

So let’s start dreaming and expanding that travel bucket list!

• 1.1 Scuba dive on the Great Barrier Reef
• 1.2 Learn to surf in Bali
• 1.3 Explore the rainforest of Costa Rica
• 1.4 Hike in the mountains of New Zealand
• 1.5 Go canyoneering in the Philippines
• 1.6 Trek to Machu Picchu
• 1.7 Sleep under the stars in the Australian outback
• 1.8 Hike Kawah Ijen at night to see the sunrise
• 1.9 See whales in the wild
• 1.10 Drive around Havana in a vintage car
• 1.11 See the Northern Lights
• 1.12 Ride the Trans-Siberian Express
• 1.13 Hike the Sentiero Azzurro in Cinque Terre
• 1.14 Hike & see the lakes in Canada
• 1.15 Watch the sunset from Ipanema Beach
• 1.16 Watch the sunrise over Uluru
• 1.17 Explore the Great Wall of China
• 1.18 Explore Chichen Itza & Mayan ruins in Mexico
• 1.19 Watch the sunrise at the Taj Mahal
• 1.20 Go on a USA road trip
• 1.21 See the Egyptian pyramids
• 1.22 Go for a sunrise hot air balloon ride over Cappadoccia
• 1.23 Cruise in the Norwegian fjords
• 1.24 Cruise in Halong Bay in Vietnam
• 1.25 Watch the sunrise over Angkor Wat in Cambodia
• 1.26 Go skydiving!
• 1.27 Go on a safari in Africa
• 1.28 Snorkel with turtles
• 1.29 Get up close to elephants (in an ethical way!)
• 1.30 See the temples in Thailand
• 1.31 Fly over the Grand Canyon
• 1.32 Swim in a Wadi in Oman
• 1.33 Explore the Eternal City
• 1.34 Get lost in London
• 1.35 Discover the Lost City of Petra
• 1.36 Ski in the European Alps
• 1.37 Go island hopping in Sardinia
• 1.38 Explore the Salt Flats in Bolivia
• 1.39 Do a zipline adventure!

Hiking to the base of the Catarata del Toro waterfall in Costa Rica

35+ adventures everyone should add to their bucket list

Scuba dive on the great barrier reef.

The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system, composed by over 900 islands and almost 3,000 individual reefs. It stretches over 2,300km and has an area of almost 350,000 square kilometres.

Need I say anything else? Exploring this beautiful underwater world is a once in a lifetime experience that should feature on everyone’s Australia itinerary .

If you don’t like scuba diving you can also snorkel (that’s what I did) and it was still magical. You will be able to see so many different fish and corals; it’s unlike anything you’ve ever seen.

| READ MORE: SHOULD YOU SNORKEL OR SCUBA DIVE ON THE GREAT BARRIER REEF? |

Some beautiful corals that you can see when scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef, Australia – Photo by Kristoffer Trondsen on Scopio

Learn to surf in Bali

I strongly believe that everyone should try surfing at least once in their life. Surfing isn’t just a sport.

It’s a way of life and a practice that connects you to nature and makes you more aware of those around you. There’s more to surfing than just standing on a board and looking cool.

Bali is one of the most popular surf destinations and one where many beginners start out. Whether it’s Bali , Costa Rica or the Canary Islands , make sure to add a surfing trip to your travel bucket list.

| READ MORE: WHERE TO GO SURFING IN BALI |

Me braving the waves and learning to surf in Bali

Explore the rainforest of Costa Rica

I left my heart in Costa Rica . It’s the last trip I’ve recently come back from and I fell in love with the huge variety of natural landscapes, things to do, the tasty food, friendly locals and fun backpacker vibe.

However one thing that stood out was the rainforest in Tortuguero National Park . If you’ve ever wanted to venture into the rainforest, searching for crocodiles and sloths, this is the place to do so.

A small crocodile we spotted during our rainforest canoe tour

Hike in the mountains of New Zealand

If you’re a Lord of the Rings fan, then you have to visit New Zealand. Even if you’re not a Lord of the Rings fan, it’s still a must-see for anyone who loves being outdoors.

I only spent one week in New Zealand but, even in such a short period of time, I was able to go on some of the most incredible hikes I’ve ever done.

When you pair a smooth hiking terrain with sweeping mountain views, it’s hard to go wrong. You will feel on top of the world, and at times also like you’re adventuring around Middle Earth.

| READ MORE: THE MOST EPIC HIKES IN NEW ZEALAND |

Enjoying the view from the peak of the Sugarloaf, New Zealand

Go canyoneering in the Philippines

I’ve seen my fair share of epic waterfalls in Iceland , Sri Lanka , Costa Rica and Canada . However none of them were as beautiful and fun as Kawasan Falls in the Philippines .

It might be a bit of a touristy attraction, but it’s also an epic spot where you can spend four hours hiking along the river, swimming in it, sliding down natural made water slides and cliff diving from the top of the waterfalls.

If you love being outdoors, admiring nature and enjoy a bit of adrenaline rush, then canyoneering is an experience you have to add to your bucket list.

| READ MORE: DISCOVER THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES IN THE PHILIPPINES |

Enjoying Kawasan Falls in Cebu Island, Philippines, before the crowds

Trek to Machu Picchu

I haven’t had the pleasure to travel to Peru yet. If I had to say what’s at the top of my travel bucket list right now, I’d say Peru and Machu Picchu.

The thought of hiking along the Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trek and reaching this lost city fills me with adrenaline. Not only for the hike challenge and epic views, but also for the rich culture and history.

Machu Picchu is also one of the Seven Wonders of the World, it’s a must on anyone’s bucket list!

Exploring Machu Picchu – photo by Jake Cunningham on Scopio

Sleep under the stars in the Australian outback

The Australian outback had, without a doubt, the most incredible night sky I have ever seen. During my 3-day Uluru tour we spent two nights camping in the Australian outback, far from any towns or sources of light pollution.

You could clearly see the Milky Way, as well as a million other stars. I lost count of how many hours I spent just looking up at the stars.

There are many places around the world where it gets dark enough to see a beautiful starry sky. However if you want a really special one, the Aussie outback is the one for you.

| READ MORE: THE ULTIMATE AUSTRALIA BUCKET LIST |

The Milky Way seen from the Australian outback

Hike Kawah Ijen at night to see the sunrise

I’ve done a lot of hikes in the dark with the aim of seeing the sunrise from the peak, but Kawah Ijen in Indonesia was probably the most incredible ( Little Adam’s Peak in Sri Lanka is a close second).

Not only is the sunrise from the top absolutely incredible, but at Kawah Ijen you can also see the famous blue flames. A natural phenomenon visible only here, thanks to the high concentration of sulphur gases.

It’s one of those experiences that you won’t forget about.

| READ MORE: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT HIKING KAWAH IJEN |

The sun breaks through and turns East Java pink

See whales in the wild

There’s something about seeing beautiful animals in the wild that always attracts humans. We usually see them in epic documentaries, and I think it’s only natural wanting to see them for ourselves in real life.

I’ve been lucky enough to see whales in Vancouver, the Azores  and Costa Rica . Whether it’s killer whales or humpback whales, watching these peaceful giants leap out of the water is guaranteed to amaze you.

| READ MORE: WHALE WATCHING IN VANCOUVER, CANADA |

One of the killer whales we saw during our whale watching tour in Vancouver

Drive around Havana in a vintage car

I absolutely loved Cuba . The combination of colourful architecture and beautiful natural landscapes, as well as friendly locals and tasty food, make it one of my favourites.

There are lots of epic places to see in Cuba, like Vinales and Trinidad , but there’s no denying that Havana is the place that will leave you with a lasting impression.

The colonial architecture and colourful vintage cars are simply something you don’t get anywhere else. Doing a vintage car tour of Havana is an experience you will be glad to have on your bucket list!

| READ MORE: ALL THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN CUBA |

Exploring Havana in our pink vintage Chevrolet

See the Northern Lights

The Aurora Borealis is a magical natural phenomenon. There is nothing like standing under the night sky, surrounded by snow at -20°C and all of a sudden seeing the sky light up with dancing coloured lights.

They’re a tough show to catch. We spent a week in Lapland and only saw them one night. But they made up for the whole trip and the wait during those cold night.

| READ MORE: BEST THINGS TO DO IN LAPLAND IN WINTER |

Admiring the Northern Lights – photo by Photo by Oren Cohen on Scopio

Ride the Trans-Siberian Express

How does the longest train journey in the world sound for an ultimate travel bucket list? The Trans-Siberian Railway Network is over 9,000km and connects Moscow with Vladivostock, in the Russian Far East.

Depending on how many places you stop to see on the way, it can take anywhere between seven days and months, with incredible views all throughout the journey.

Saint Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow, Russia

Hike the Sentiero Azzurro in Cinque Terre

The Sentiero Azzurro in Italy is one of my favourite hikes in the world. This 12km trail connects five coastal towns (known as the Cinque Terre) and has jaw dropping views all throughout.

As you hike along the trail you will have the bright turquoise sea on one side, and the lush green cliffs on the other.

If the natural beauty isn’t enough, as you hike you will also see the cute colourful towns perched on the cliff sides.

It’s a very distinctive view and one I’ve only experienced on this hike. There’s also the added bonus that you can take pizza and gelato breaks throughout the hike!

| READ MORE: HIKING THE SENTIERO AZZURRO IN CINQUE TERRE |

Admiring the colourful houses of Manarola, one of the five towns along the Sentiero Azzurro in Cinque Terre, Italy

Hike & see the lakes in Canada

You’ve probably figured out by now that I love a good hike.

It may not be for everyone, but I do believe being outdoors, surrounded by nature, physically challenging your body is one of the most rewarding things you can do.

Canada is amongst the best places in the world to go hiking. The absolutely stunning mountain views and natural landscapes are second to none.

I’ve only been to Vancouver and did some awesome hikes around the city, as far as Whistler , but there are many epic spots I hope to go back to one day.

Hiking in Banff and looking down at that bright turquoise lake must be a breath taking experience.

| READ MORE: THE BEST HIKES IN & AROUND VANCOUVER |

The view from the First Peak of Stawamus Chief, along the Sea to Sky Highway

Watch the sunset from Ipanema Beach

I left my heart in Brazil. The beautiful landscapes, the epic beaches, the friendly locals and tasty food, Brazil has it all.

But if I had to say what was my favourite moment of my Brazil trip; I would say sitting on the rocks at the end of Ipanema Beach in Rio de Janeiro, capirinha in hand, watching the sun go down.

It’s a magical sunset over a unique and distinctive panorama. If you’re there during the Brasilian summer, the sun will dip exactly between two rocks, urging the waiting crowd to break into a spontaneous applause.

Watching the sun set in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Watch the sunrise over Uluru

If I had to rate the best sunrises of my life, the sunrise I saw at Uluru is definitely amongst them.

Watching the sky turn all shades of red and orange, with the huge outline of the Uluru monolith in sharp contrast with the sky was breath taking.

Most tourists go to Uluru for the sunset, whilst at sunrise there were considerably less people around. The sun rises behind or next to Uluru depending on the time of year you’re visiting.

Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the view. It’s not something you see every day.

| READ MORE: EXPLORE ULURU & THE AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK IN 3 DAYS |

Sunrise at Uluru, Australia

Explore the Great Wall of China

They say that the Great Wall of China is the only human construction visible from space. Do you need any other reason for wanting to visit it? How about that it’s one of the Seven Wonders of the World?

As the name suggests the Great Wall of China is a series of fortifications and a huge wall that was built to protect the Chinese empire. It’s one of the most incredible sights you will see.

Sunrise at the Great Wall of China – Photo by Jeet Khagram on Scopio

Explore Chichen Itza & Mayan ruins in Mexico

Chichen Itza is one of the most well preserved Mayan pyramids, as well one of the Seven Wonders of the World. No trip to Mexico would be complete without a trip to Chichen Itza.

Here you can marvel at the skills of the Mayans, who built such an imposing structure thousands of years ago, which lasted through the ages. You can also learn more about this lost civilisation.

But a trip to Mexico isn’t just about Mayan ruins. You can also spend time relaxing on beautiful beaches, discovering some stunning islands like Isla Mujeres, exploring hidden gems in Mexico , or even discovering the best things to do in Cozumel, Mexico .

Chichen Itza in Mexico

Watch the sunrise at the Taj Mahal

Continuing on the Seven Wonders of the World trend, I couldn’t compile an ultimate travel bucket list without mentioning the Taj Mahal! I’ve been to India before, but only in the southern region of Kerala .

I would love to go back one day and see the beauty of the palaces and cities in the north, amongst which the Taj Mahal.

It gets incredibly busy during the day (understandably so) so if you can make it there for sunrise, you’ll be able to beat the crowds and enjoy this beauty all to yourself.

Exploring the Taj Mahal in Indian – Photo by Erika Calle on Scopio

Go on a USA road trip

Is there a more iconic road trip destination than the US? The long straight roads, the beautiful desert landscapes, the stunning national parks and the vibrant cities, a USA road trip has it all!

So get your friends together, jump in the car (or van) and set off on an adventure! For many people road tripping around the US is seen as a rite of passage, something everyone should have on their bucket list.

| READ MORE: THE ULTIMATE USA WEST COAST ROAD TRIP |

Enjoying the sunshine in St Pete, Florida

See the Egyptian pyramids

I’ve been to Egypt multiple times as a child, but only to the Red Sea for snorkelling trips. I still haven’t been to Cairo to see the pyramids.

It’s one of those must-see bucket list experiences that I still have to live, and hope to do so soon.

Exploring the pyramids in Egypt – Photo by Magomed Shapiev on Scopio

Go for a sunrise hot air balloon ride over Cappadoccia

Hot air balloon rides are already pretty magical experiences. Now pair it with the surreal landscape of Cappadoccia , and the beautiful pink sunrise sky, and you have a once in a lifetime bucket list experience!

Cruise in the Norwegian fjords

If you’re looking for a spot of incredible natural wonder, then the Norwegian fjords are the place for you. No matter how big your boat is, when you’re cruising through the steep cliffs of the fjords, it will feel tiny.

Cruising through the narrow fjords, with the steep green cliffs towering on three sides, was one of the most awesome experiences of my life. The most famous and scenic fjord is without a doubt the Geirangerfjord.

| READ MORE: CRUISE THE NORWEGIAN FJORDS IN SUMMER |

Cruising into the Geirangerfjord

Cruise in Halong Bay in Vietnam

Keeping things in a cruising theme, another magical experience you have to have is cruising in Halong Bay in Vietnam.

I haven’t done this myself yet (hopefully soon!) but I’ve seen enough photos and videos of the dramatic cliffs and epic views of Halong Bay to know I want to explore it one day.

You can explore Halong Bay as a day trip or even with an overnight cruise. Waking up in the morning on a tiny boat, and looking out to see the towering mountains of Halong bay must be magical.

2023 Update : In March 2024 I finally got the opportunity to spend 10 days in Vietnam, so obviously doing a 3-day 2-night cruise in Halong Bay was at the top of my Vietnam bucket list.

The weather wasn’t on our side, but I still loved my Halong Bay cruise . Alongside Ninh Binh and Sapa , it was amongst my favourite experiences in Vietnam

Cruising through the limestone formations of Halong Bay in Vietnam

Watch the sunrise over Angkor Wat in Cambodia

I’ve said before the sunrise over Uluru was one of the best I’ve ever seen. Probably because I still haven’t seen the sunrise at Angkor Wat in Cambodia.

This temple complex is one of the largest religious monuments in the world. It was originally built as a Hindu temple and then got transformed into a Buddhist temple.

After watching the most magical sunrise, you can spend the day exploring the temple grounds and learning about the history and culture of Cambodia.

The beautiful silhouette and reflection of Ankgor Wat at sunrise – Photo by WOO WON JEUNG on Scopio

Go skydiving!

Ever wanted to feel the thrill of jumping out of an airplane and soaring through the sky? Skydiving is a terrifying experience, but one that will get your adrenaline levels pumping.

I personally haven’t done this yet but my best friends did it in Australia and New Zealand .

The thrill is going to be the same everywhere, but make sure to pick a skydiving location with epic views, so you can admire them as you fly!

People skydiving – Photo by Rainer Puster on Scopio

Go on a safari in Africa

Searching for the Big Five on a safari was a dream bucket list activity for me for years. Going on a safari in the Tsavo East National Park was a dream come true.

We woke up before sunrise, boarded our jeep and spent the day driving around the African bush. Seeing these beautiful animals in their natural habitat is thrilling to say the least.

| READ MORE: PLAN AN EPIC SAFARI IN KENYA |

Elephant crossing the road during our safari in the Tsavo East National Park.

Snorkel with turtles

I’ve had the opportunity to snorkel with turtles in Sri Lanka , in Bali and in the Philippines , and I have to say it’s just as magical every time. I marvel every time at their beauty, even if it’s something I’ve done before.

Even if they tell you it’s a famous turtle spot, there’s never any guarantee that you will actually see them.

Jumping in the sea with my snorkel, and eventually spotting one of these beautiful sea creatures swimming around undisturbed gives me a thrill every time.

Snorkelling with turtles in Moalboal in Cebu Island

Get up close to elephants (in an ethical way!)

Not only seeing elephants, but being able to get close to them, is a dream and bucket list experience for many people. Just make sure that the elephant encounter you plan is ethical, and the elephants are treated well!

In Thailand we had the opportunity to spend a whole day with three elephants. We started off by feeding the elephants, then walked in the forest with them and even bathed with them!

There are many ethical elephant sanctuaries around the world. We went to Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai , and found the elephants there to be treated well.

Seeing how happy the elephants were was a genuinely heart warming experience, as well as an incredibly fun day for us. Doing an ethical elephant encounter should feature on everyone’s travel bucket list.

In also did an elephant safari in Sri Lanka . You can’t get as close to them but here the elephants are completely free and in their natural environment.

| READ MORE: WHERE TO SEE ELEPHANTS IN THAILAND |

Getting close to the elephants at Elephant Green Hill in Chiang Mai, Thailand

See the temples in Thailand

I’m not much of a history and culture person. When I travel I prefer to be outdoors and do things in nature. However for the temples in Thailand I made an exception.

Thailand is home to some of the most beautiful temples in the world. With over 40,000 temples dotted all over the country, you are guaranteed to find at least one you will love.

Some of the most famous are in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai , Ayutthaya and Bangkok , but there are many more spread across Thailand.

A temple hopping trip in Thailand is guaranteed to have you marvelling at their architecture and beauty.

| READ MORE: DISCOVER THE MOST BEAUTIFUL TEMPLES IN THAILAND |

The front of Wat Rong Suea Ten (the Blue Temple) in Chiang Rai, Thailand

Fly over the Grand Canyon

They don’t call it the Grand Canyon for nothing! Located in Arizona in the US, the Grand Canyon is one of the most stunning natural attractions in the world.

The Grand Canyon is almost 1,900 metres deep. With its layered bands of red rock and steep canyon walls, it’s one of the most unique landscapes you will ever see.

There are lots of beautiful viewpoints that overlook it, but if you want to tick something truly unique from your bucket list, then you should definitely fly over it in a helicopter!

It will give you a unique perspective into this natural beauty.

Exploring the Grand Canyon in the USA – Photo by Kenedy Collins-Hanlon on Scopio

Swim in a Wadi in Oman

I spent a week in Oman and I was genuinely blown away. I didn’t expect Oman to be so beautiful and have such a variety of landscapes. My personal favourites were the wadis.

A wadi is an Arabic term that refers to a narrow channel, ravine or canyon. We visited Wadi Shab and Wadi Bani Khalid and if I had to choose one, I would struggle.

Both wadis are characterised by clear emerald water, surrounded by steep ravine cliffs. Swimming in the fresh water of the wadis, while looking up to the surrounding rocks is something I had never done before.

| READ MORE: THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES IN OMAN |

Exploring the Wadi Bani Khalid in Oman

Explore the Eternal City

Visiting Rome , the Eternal City, is something everybody should do once in their life. Walking around the cobbled streets, admiring the architecture and marvelling at the Roman ruins, is something that will stay with you forever.

There are lots of beautiful spots in Rome , where you can get your fill of history and culture, as well as of tasty Italian food!

In Rome you can also visit the Colosseum, one of the Seven Wonders of the World”.

| READ MORE: HOW TO SPEND 2 EPIC WEEKS IN ITALY |

Enjoying the beauty of the Colosseum in Rome, Italy

Get lost in London

Samuel Johnson once said; “By seeing London, I have seen as much of life as the world can show” .

While I would say there are lots of other beautiful places and things to do in the world (36 according to this bucket list!) I do agree that London is awesome.

London is an incredibly cosmopolitan city. It’s a melting pot of people, cultures and traditions from all over the world. It’s also a beautiful city from an architectural point of view.

There is nothing quite like London. Which is why I think everyone should spend at least two days in London , exploring all that this epic city has to offer.

| READ MORE: THE ULTIMATE LONDON BUCKET LIST |

Chilling by More London Place and enjoying the view over Tower Bridge

Discover the Lost City of Petra

Petra is one of the most stunning places I’ve ever seen. It’s a huge archaeological site in Jordan , which used to be the capital city of the Nabataeans around 300BC.

It’s known as the “Lost City” as it only became known to the western world when a Swiss explorer re-discovered it.

Walking through the narrow path of the Siq Trail, until it finally opens up and you can admire the Treasury will make you feel like you’re in an Indiana Jones movie.

Don’t just stop at the Treasury though. Petra is a 60 square kilometres site, with incredibly detailed and well-preserved facades built into the rock dotted everywhere. There are also some incredible red desert landscapes.

| READ MORE: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT VISITING PETRA |

Enjoying the view over the Treasury of Petra in Jordan

Ski in the European Alps

I may be biased when I say this, but I wholeheartedly believe that the European Alps are the best place in the world to ski.

Whether you chose to ski on the Italian , French, Swiss or Austrian side of the mountains, you’re guaranteed an epic experience.

Nowhere else in the world will you find such a high concentration of slopes for all skiing levels, as well as epic views, great food and fun après ski.

Many of the ski resorts also have passes that allow you to ski from one resort to another, sometimes you can even ski across countries!

Whether you’re an experienced skier or you’re just starting out, skiing in the Alps is an incredible adventure and a must on any Europe bucket list .

Skiing in St Anton am Alberg, just look at that view!

Go island hopping in Sardinia

This is another adventure that I might be somewhat biased about, but I really believe everyone should visit Sardinia at least once in their life.

I’ve seen a lot of beaches around the world , but I still haven’t found water as clear as the one in Sardinia anywhere else.

In Sardinia you will find white soft sand beaches, rugged pink granite landscapes and incredibly clear turquoise water. You can spend your days island hopping from beach to beach, and swimming in the clear water.

It’s an experience that should feature on everyone’s travel bucket list. Trust me when I say, you won’t forget about it anytime soon.

| READ MORE: DISCOVER THE MOST BEAUTIFUL BEACHES IN SARDINIA |

Relaxing on the nets of the catamaran we cruised in Maddalena Archipelago with at the Cavaliere Beach

Explore the Salt Flats in Bolivia

The Salt Flats of Bolivia have been at the top of my travel bucket list for a very long time now. Driving around nothing but a white desert feels to me like a unique experience, which you can’t really have anywhere else.

I’m hoping to visit Salar de Uyuni during my big South America backpacking trip. I want to go during the rainy season, when you can’t tell where the ski ends and the desert begins.

Do a zipline adventure!

One of the most thrilling adventures you have to add to your travel bucket list is zip-lining. Zipline is an activity where through wires and a pulley system you travel from the top to the bottom of the wires, pulled by gravity.

I went ziplining across the Cetina Canyon in Croatia and around canopy trees in Costa Rica , and both times were extremely exciting, even if different. One was more scenic, whilst the other was close up to rainforest trees.

Soaring high over the ground, admiring the view is a thrilling experience, which every adventure fan will love.

Zip-lining over the Cetina Canyon

Final thoughts on my epic travel bucket list

Are there any experiences on your travel bucket list that I haven’t mentioned here? Let me know in the comments below!

I’m always searching for more travel inspiration, and would love to hear about your own travel dreams!

This travel bucket list is based on my own experiences. It’s a compilation of awesome adventures I’ve been lucky enough to live, as well as others I haven’t yet but hope to do so soon.

I hope you find it useful in building your own travel bucket list and keeping that wanderlust alive!

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Bucket List Travels – 52 Places to Visit in Your Lifetime

Written By: The Planet D

Travel Bucket Lists

Updated On: February 14, 2024

We have put together the ultimate travel bucket list to spark your imagination. Dave and I made a dream list of our travel bucket list travels way back in 2006. And we fulfilled every travel adventure we ever dreamed of. Now we want to help your dreams come true and share the best bucket list travels that we’ve ever done.

These are 52 destinations that you need to do at least once in your lifetime. We’ve got one idea for every week of the year! You may also like The Best Adventure Destinations For The Ultimate Vacations

Table of Contents

Travel Bucket List Ideas

So, let’s look at the most mind-blowing beautiful places in the world. Oh, by the way, these are bucket list travels that we’ve done ourselves. It’s not a Google search like so many things on the internet these days.

1. Iguazu Falls

There was something magical about staying right in the heart of Iguazú National Park at the Belmont Hotel Das Cataratas. Having this natural wonder all to ourselves in the early morning was like a fairytale. We walked from our hotel to the long platform leading to the center of the massive cascade surrounded by thundering waters.

For a bucket list experience, this was spectacular. Be sure to take a helicopter tour over the falls and hop on a jet boat to get soaked. They seriously put the boat right underneath the waterfall. If there is one item on your travel bucket list. This should be it!

• Getting Soaked – The Ultimate Iguazu Falls Tour
• 11 Fun and Unexpected Things to do in Iguassu Falls

2. Amalfi Coast

We thought we had seen the beauty of Italy when visiting the Cinque Terre, but the Amalfi Coast is the Cinque Terre on steroids. The beautiful coastal towns along the Gulf of Salerno took our breath away at every turn. Rent a car and drive this famous highway that clings to the side of sea cliffs. There is nothing more romantic than driving the towns of Positano , Ravello, Amalfi, and Sorrento. Make sure to splurge on a room overlooking the terraced buildings of Positano and its beach.

• The Best Things to Do in Amalfi Coast, Italy
• 10 Most Romantic Italian Coastal Towns for Couples
• Watch our Amalfi Coast Video
• Hiking Cinque Terre – The Beautiful Five Villages in Italy

3. Maldives

Staying in an over-the-water bungalow in Bora Bora or Tahiti is on everyone’s travel bucket list. But we did this in The Maldives and I cannot think of a place that is more beautiful in the world. The turquoise waters surrounded our bungalow complete with a glass floor so we could watch the fish swim by was superb. I don’t think I have seen such white sand beaches anywhere on earth.

• 15 of The Best Things to do in the Maldives
• Scuba Diving in Maldives – A Beginner’s Journey
• Best of the Maldives Video – On YouTube
• Snorkeling in the Maldives

4. Petra Jordan

By the time we made it to Petra Jordan, we had seen a lot of famous ancient cities with our own eyes. We expected to like it, but we didn’t expect to be wowed by it. Boy were we wrong! Petra is in a league unto itself. The hidden city of Petra is located within a 1.2 km rock passage reaching 80 meters into the air. Once you arrive at The Petra Treasury you are treated to an awe-inspiring scene. A massive building complete with columns is carved into the stone.

• Watch our visit to Petra on YouTube

5. African Safari

There is nothing more magical than an African Safari. We’ve been lucky to go on Safari in Tanzania, Kenya, South Africa , and Botswana. And trust me, it never gets old. Seeing the majestic lion stalk its prey and watching a herd of elephants walking through the African savanna is a scene that is forever etched into our brains. There is something special about visiting Africa. As the saying goes “I left my heart in Africa” and every time we leave the continent we feel the same way.

• African Safari Animals: 34 Photos to make you want to visit Tanzania
• What to Wear on Safari – Africa Travel Inside and Out
• Kenya Safari – The Masai Mara Experience

6. Churchill Polar Bears

Speaking of safaris, have you ever thought of a safari in Canada? I don’t think there was anything more awe-inspiring than seeing polar bears in the wild. It is even more of a bucket list ticket to be able to walk with polar bears. Going up to the arctic tundra in summer is not only unique, but it is also a chance to see polar bears in a different environment than in snow. We visited the Polar Bears twice with Churchill Wild . Once in the winter and once in the summer.

• Walking with Polar Bears – The Greatest Arctic Safari
• Kayaking with Beluga Whales – A Paddlers Dream
• The Ultimate Arctic Safari on YouTube

7. Santorini Greece

We had seen Santorini in the yogurt ads for years and dreamed of one day visiting. Once we arrived, we understood why it has been featured in so many commercials. When we looked over the cliffs of the caldera, the views didn’t seem real. Whitewashed buildings with blue domes lined the high cliffs of the caldera. Staying in a cave hotel overlooking the Aegean Sea was the ultimate dream.

• 25 of The Very Best Things to do in Santorini
• Where to Stay in Santorini
• Places to Visit in Santorini, Greece
• A Photography Guide to Santorini – Getting that Postcard Shot
• Iconic Santorini: A Cave Hotel Experience

8. Kayak and Camp in Antarctica

If you haven’t noticed on our blog, a lot of our bucket list adventures have been in cold regions. And Antarctica truly tops the list. We were lucky enough to visit Antarctica with Quark Expeditions where we fulfilled every travel dream. From camping on Antarctica to kayaking around icebergs, Antarctica was an adventure lover’s travel dream.

• 11 of the Best Things to do in Antarctica
• Sea Kayak Antarctica – The Adventure of a Lifetime
• Camping on Antarctica
• See our complete Antarctica Expedition on YouTube

9. Trek to Mount Everest Base Camp

Staying in the cold weather for a moment, the ultimate bucket list adventure is to trek to Everest Base Camp. When we can all travel again, this is something anyone can do regardless of climbing skills Follow the footsteps of Sir Edmond Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa to see the Khumbu Ice Fall, Everest Base Camp, The Tengboche Monastery, and Mighty Mount Everest herself. Secure the ultimate bragging rights among your friends and trek to Everest. Our friend Dipendra at SimRik Real Nepal Treks is waiting for you.

• Everest Base Camp Trek – All You Need to Know from Start to Finish
• Remarkable Everest Base Camp Trek in Photos
• Flight to Lukla – A Scary Thrill Ride to Everest
• See our Full Everest Playlist on YouTube

10. Cappadocia, Turkey

Nearly everyone is familiar with the famous scene of balloons soaring through the air above fairy chimneys. Turkey’s Cappadocia really does feel like a fairytale. This had been our bucket list since seeing dozens of balloons in the air on Instagram nearly a decade ago. A morning hot air balloon ride fulfills the ultimate travel dream list.

• Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon: How to Choose the Right Company
• A Tour of a Cave Hotel on YouTube
• The Incredible Landscape of Cappadocia on YouTube

11. Himalayas of Bhutan

Bhutan is the happiest country in the world and you can’t help but fall in love with the people and landscape when you visit this bucket list destination. Trekking through the Himalayas is an incredible journey but hiking to Tiger’s Nest Monastery in the Paro Valley is what draws people to the country. This iconic scene doesn’t disappoint.

• 18 Things to do in Bhutan – A Comprehensive Guide of What Not to Miss
• Bhutan Trek to Laya – A Himalayan Adventure to the Remarkable and Remote
• Watch our trek to Tiger’s Nest Monastery on YouTube
• And see what happened when we met the King of Bhutan

12. Great Wall of China

We have visited the Great Wall of China twice. And it lives up to everything we ever expected. Looking at this marvel of engineering truly did inspire wonder and awe. No wonder it is listed as one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. We loved visiting both the Mutianyu and Badaling Great Wall, they were equally beautiful yet very different experiences.

• The Great Wall of China – Mutianyu vs. Badaling

13. Machu Picchu

Speaking of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu is another beautiful destination to add to your bucket lists. Hiking the Inca Trail is on many people’s adventure bucket list, but even seeing this extraordinary Inca City will take your breath away. Literally. Located in the Andes Mountains at 2,430 meters/7,972 feet in elevations, it is a wonder to see.

• Machu Picchu Hike: All You Need To Know To Be Perfectly Prepared
• How to Plan a Trip to Machu Picchu

14. Great Barrier Reef

The UNESCO World Heritage Site off the coast of Australia is the largest coral reef in the world. It tops many a traveler’s bucket list. Even if scuba diving or snorkeling isn’t your thing, it is a must-visit. There are many ways to see the Great Barrier Reef. You can take a helicopter ride over the reef or even take a boat out to a platform in the middle of the sea to let you swim, snorkel, and sunbathe in the middle of this beautiful piece of ocean.

• Diving the Great Barrier Reef – Australia’s Ultimate Adventure

15. Pyramids of Giza

We had always wanted to see the Great Pyramids of Giza with our own eyes. We didn’t know what to expect, but when we first spotted them they seemed surreal. They cut through the haze of Cairo standing the desert looking like a mirage. We have had the privilege of visiting them twice and can say that for a fun way to explore them, hire a camel to take you through the pyramid complex to feel like a true Bedouin.

• The Red Pyramid of Egypt – Experience it Inside and Out
• 10 Amazing Temples of Egypt – That We’ve Seen

16. Gobi Desert of Mongolia

We are always fascinated by deserts, but there was something truly unique and spectacular about Mongolia’s Gobi Desert. It is filled with life. From the herds of Bactrian camels (two-humped camels) to the nomadic people of Mongolia moving their Ghers from camp to camp that was always something to see. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

• Read more at Mongolia Pictures from the Russian Border to the Gobi Desert

17. Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands are a group of islands off the coast of Ecuador that have their very own ecosystem. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the most biodiverse of destinations on earth. AND 97% of the Galapagos is a national park. The top draw to the Galapagos is to see its endemic species that are unique to the islands. From the Galapagos giant tortoise, marine iguanas, and the Galapagos penguin, the wildlife experiences.

• 27 photos that will transport you to the Galápagos Islands
• Playing With Sea Lions on San Isabella in the Galapagos

18. Mount Kilimanjaro

If there is one mountain to climb in your lifetime it is Mount Kilimanjaro, The Roof of Africa. Kilimanjaro National park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site housing the highest point in Africa. The six to seven-day climb is part of the seven summits and is a spectacular bucket list vacation. So don’t wait to start planning your climb up the highest freestanding mountain on earth.

• Read more: Complete Guide to Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

19. Bagan, Myanmar

A visit to Myanmar is a trip we’ll never forget. Bagan was the highlight of our travels through the country. Taking an early morning ferry along the Irrawaddy River from Mandalay, we emerged at the most extraordinary complex of temples we had ever seen. Built in 1057 and covering 16 square miles Bagan houses 2200 pagodas. It looks like a massive forest of temples that you must see with your own eyes.

• Read More – The Incredible Temples of Bagan, Myanmar

20. See the Northern Lights

Have you ever wanted to witness the dazzling display of the Aurora Borealis? Once you see the Northern Lights dancing in the night sky, it doesn’t seem real at first. Are your eyes playing tricks on you? Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. We didn’t have good luck there but have witnessed them several times in Canada and in Greenland.

• Incredible Greenland – The Final Frontier for Adventure Travel

21. Mexico Cenotes

For scuba divers’ the Cenotes of Mexico are a top bucket list diving adventure. But you can tour many cenotes without diving. The Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico has several adventures where you can rappel, snorkel, and paddle through Cenotes. But it was the Rio Secreto Cenote that was truly extraordinary.

• Rio Secreto Cenote – Mexico’s Magical Underground Caves
• Cenotes in Photos – Discover Mexico’s Extraordinary Underground Caves

22. Rome’s Colosseum

The city of Rome is like no other. It is packed with ancient ruins and none as famous as the Colosseum. We had the good fortune of staying directly across the street from the Colosseum with a view of the amphitheater from our room. You think that you know everything about the Colosseum, but nothing can prepare you for seeing it for the first time.

• 22 of the Best Things to do in Rome
• 20 of the Best Free Things to do in Rome
• 3 Days in Rome – The Ultimate Rome Itinerary

23. Christ the Redeemer – Brazil

Rio de Janeiro is one of the most beautiful cities on earth and Christ the Redeemer stands proudly over the city keeping watch. Seeing “Christo Redentor” standing with arms outstretched at the top of Corcovado Mountain is on many bucket list travelers list. You can see it by hiking up the mountain, taking the train, or a scenic bus ride but nothing compares to flying around it by helicopter.

• The Top 18 Most Excellent Things to do in Rio de Janeiro

24. Ha Long Bay – Vietnam

Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that needs to be seen to truly be appreciated. 1600 towering limestone islands reach up from the emerald waters of Halong Bay. What makes the bay even more picturesque are the junk boats that take tourists to explore the many islands and caves.

• Halong Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay – How to Choose Your Cruise?
• The Very Best Things to do in Vietnam from North to South

25. Have Champagne at the Eiffel Tower – France

Paris is the city of love and we never tire of seeing the Eiffel Tower . Seeing the Eiffel Tower sparkle in the city of lights is such a romantic scene, but you must go up the Eiffel Tower. And did you know you can have a glass of champagne? Celebrate a milestone, get engaged or just enjoy a toast as you take in the Parisian skyline.

• Where To Stay In Paris – The Best Neighborhoods in Paris
• 3 Days in Paris: The Best Paris Itinerary for Your First Visit

26. Helicopter Tour of Victoria Falls – Zambia

We happen to live one hour away from Niagara Falls in Canada and we do love that city and the iconic Canadian cascade. So when we had the chance to visit Victoria Falls in Zambia we were very excited. The Falls That Thunder is located in the center of Mosi Oa Tunya National Park and is the largest waterfall in the world. The setting is completely different than Niagara Falls as it is surrounded by jungle. At a Whopping 1.7 km wide (1 mile) it is massive, and the way to take in the scope of Victoria Falls is to get up in the air.

• Incredible Things to Do in Victoria Falls, Zambia

27. Soak in the Blue Lagoon – Iceland

Sure, the Blue Lagoon of Iceland is overcrowded these days, but no trip to “The Land of Fire and Ice” would be complete without stopping to soak in its healing waters. It tops many a traveler’s bucket list, especially after National Geographic named it one of the top 25 Natural Wonders of the World.

• How to Visit The Blue Lagoon in Iceland
• Best Places To Visit In Iceland

28. Explore the Canals of Venice – Italy

We truly fell in love with Venice. Staying in the city for four days allowed us to get off the beaten path to explore more of the quiet corners of the floating city. Not bucket-list travels would be complete without adding Venice to your list. While a gondola tops many bucket lists, it was the private taxi tour that we found to be far more romantic. Riding through the Grand Canal in style viewing scenery made us feel like movie stars.

• 3 Days in Venice – The Complete Venice Itinerary
• Where to Stay in Venice – The Best Neighborhoods and Hotels for Every Budget

29. Spy the Sun Stream at Antelope Canyon – USA

It is one of the most recognizable caves in the world. But where is it? Antelope Canyon in Page, Arizona is located in the United States. Once a day a gorgeous waterfall of light seeps through tiny openings lighting up the layers of sandstone in this famous slot canyon. Read: The 17 Best Hikes in Arizona

• Antelope Canyon Photo Tours – How to Make the most of it

30. Hike Through Meteora – Greece

Santorini may be the luxury escape of Greece, but the Monasteries of Meteora are the wonders of Greece. Sitting at the top of massive rock monoliths reaching up to 500 meters (1500 feet) from the valley floor, ancient monasteries dot the landscape. Dating back to the 9th century, the Meteora Monasteries can be visited today by hiking to the top, walking across bridges, or simply taking in the view from one of the many lookouts.

• Meteora Monasteries of Greece – Magic Monoliths in Photos
• The Best Places to Visit in Greece

31. Giant’s Causeway – Northern Ireland

A visit to the Giant’s Causeway in Ireland will make you believe in giants. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is Northern Ireland’s most famous attraction and tops many a travel bucket list. To see the perfectly arranged basalt pillars leading out to sea makes you believe that a giant built a causeway to Scotland rather than a volcanic eruption some 60 million years ago.

• The Legend of the Giant’s Causeway – Do You Believe?

32. Leaning Tower of Pisa – Italy

We didn’t know if we’d be in awe of the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, but seeing it in person did indeed live up to the hype. Pisa alone is worth visiting. This picturesque city located on the Arno River is filled with history dating back to the 14th century.

• The Leaning Tower of Pisa – Is It Worth The Visit?

33. Stand in the Center of Times Square – New York

Standing in the center of Times Square in New York fills you with energy and excitement. New York is certainly one of the most exciting cities in the world, and while Times Square is filled with tourists, its with good reason. You feel as if you are in the center of the universe as massive LED screens surround the entire square.

• Best Things to Do in New York City
• Where to Stay in New York City – Top Places and Hotels For All Budgets
• Fun Facts About New York

34. Go to the Top of the Burj Khalifa – Dubai

It’s the tallest building in the world sitting amongst several other massive skyscrapers. Dubai is out of this world. With each impressive structure built, there are four more in the works. Going to the top of the Burj Khalifa to see the most impressive skyline on earth is the definitive bucket list item.

• 17 Fabulous and Fun Things to do in Dubai

35. Go Sandboarding in Huacachina – Peru

I never expected sand dunes in Peru to be so massive. When we booked a bus ticket to Huacachina in Peru, we thought we’d be sitting in a tiny oasis, but instead, we were surrounded by the largest sand dunes we’ve ever seen. The way to explore them is to take a dune buggy tour or to hop on a sandboard and glide down them. You’ll be covered in sand, but what a hoot and it is something you must try at least once in your life.

• 24 Best Things to do in Peru

36. Cross the Shibuya Scramble in Tokyo

Until you’ve seen Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo with your own eyes, it’s difficult to comprehend the number of people that take this crossing every few minutes each day. A quarter-million people cross this intersection each day. The best way to see this bucket list item is to go to the top of Magnet’s Mag 7 from the glassed-in viewing area.

• Awesome Things to do in Tokyo, Japan
• Best Day Trips from Tokyo

37. Golden Temple – India

The Taj Mahal may top everyone’s bucket list, but we found the Golden Temple of Amritsar to be a more authentic experience. Don’t get me wrong, the Taj Mahal is a wonder to see, but the Golden Temple is a beautiful display that is still a working temple. Join one hundred thousand pilgrims each day as they pay their respects to Sikkhism’s most holy site.

• Golden Temple of Amritsar – India’s Shining Star

38. Road trip to the Grand Canyon

I must admit I wasn’t expecting much from the Grand Canyon, but during our road trip through California and Arizona we popped into the Grand Canyon and I was taken aback by its beauty and sheer size. The Grand Canyon is on everyone’s American travel bucket list and it is spectacular. The Colorado River cuts through the 466 km long (277 mile) Colorado Plateau canyon of the Colorado Plateau and let me tell you, a pop in won’t do it justice. you must get out and explore the beauty of America’s natural wonder.

• 15 Fun Facts That You Need to Know About the Grand Canyon
• The Absolute Best Things to do in The Grand Canyon
• United States National Parks in Photos

39. Amazon River – Peru

The mighty Amazon River is the largest river by water volume in the world and it is the land of legends. It still feels as if much of the Amazon River Basin has yet to be explored. When you set out on a river cruise through the Amazon, you can almost feel what it was like to be an early exploring cutting their way through the largest jungle on earth.

• What to Expect on an Amazon River Cruise – Life on the River

40. Marvel at the Glaciers of Greenland

Glaciers are melting fast on this planet and nowhere on earth is it more prevalent than in Greenland. Visit the world’s most active calving glacier in Ilulissat and sail through a sea of floating skyscrapers of ice. Icebergs dwarfed our ship as we explored the west coast of Greenland on this truly magnificent bucket list adventure.

• Kayaking in Greenland – The Greatest Arctic Adventure in Photos

41.Swim with Whale Sharks

There is something truly magical about swimming with whale sharks. While it might be a frenzy of tourists beaming with excitement below is calm and quiet. To see these gentle giants glide effortlessly through the sea is the ultimate bucket list travel experience. There are many places to swim with whale sharks around the world, most notably off the coast of Cancun Mexico, and in the Philippines.

• Swimming with Whale Sharks Cancun – A Massive Adventure

42. Hornblower at Niagara Falls

Okay, we cannot forget to include going into the center of Horseshoe Falls in Niagara, Ontario. We have always taken this bucket list adventure for granted because we live so close to Niagara Falls, but when you go on the Hornblower, it truly is a spectacular scene. Feel the power of one of the world’s largest waterfalls as you sit at the bottom of the plunging waters. It is so powerful that everyone gets a rain poncho to wear on the boat. If you make your way to Canada, don’t miss seeing Niagara Falls.

There are so many things to do in Niagara Falls, the Hornblower is just the tip of the iceberg. Check out our full round-up of Our Favourite Things to do in Niagara Falls – Plus Where to Eat & Where to Stay

And these are our most amazing bucket list travels on earth. We’ve been lucky to be able to see and do all of these bucket list adventures in our lifetime. As I went through this list, I cannot believe that we have experienced each and every one of these. It all started by creating a dream list a decade ago, and now we have achieved travels beyond our wildest imagination. We can’t wait to add more when we can travel again.

• 50 Most Beautiful Places in the World to Visit – That We’ve Been
• Beautiful Isolated Places on Earth – In Photos
• 31 Most Beautiful Cities in Europe
• 16 of the Best Cities in Spain – Beautiful Places to Visit Right Now
• How to Travel Around the World – The Ultimate Travel Resource

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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5 thoughts on “Bucket List Travels – 52 Places to Visit in Your Lifetime”

wow such a wonderful list for everyone. I am from India and I was surprised when I saw the golden temple on your list because everyone includes the Taj mahal in their top list when anyone visits India. waiting for your next blog. ok, take care of each other Dave and Deb.

Chopta Chandrashila Deoria Tal Trek is a prestigious package for visitors to Chopta, which has mesmerizing panoramic Views of beautiful Himalayan peaks.It’s 5km and takes about 3 hours. We can organize a trip for you to this amazing destination. The hike up to Deoria Tal, amidst dense forests and filled with Rhododendrons (in summer) is part of the Chopta-Chandrashila trek. There is a famous Hindu story about it. When the 5 Pandavas were on their way to heaven, they stopped at the place and tasted the water.

I love these bucket list places to travel to!! Some of my favorites from the list were going to see the Churchill polar bears, kayaking in Antarctica, the Great Wall of China, the Great Barrier Reef, and the Northern Lights. This blog post reminds me of all the beautiful places I have yet to see and cannot wait to go to!

What an amazing compilation of great places. Cant wait to travel after this pandemic.

The Harmiandir Sahib (Golden Temple) of Amritsar has a unique distinction of offering free food at Langar Seva — The world’s largest community kitchen. People visiting the Golden temple must not miss the Langar food.

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21 Life-changing Trips Everyone Should Experience at Least Once

From African safaris to must-visit cities, these once-in-a-lifetime trips will make you want to plan your next great adventure.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

What's next on your travel list? With so many places worth traveling to, it can be hard to narrow down your top spots to visit.

Sometimes, it's the famous attractions, delicious food, and stunning hotels that draw us to a certain destination, and other times, it's the bragging rights that come with checking off every continent, country, or state. Whatever your motivation, we've rounded up 21 incredible trips, complete with once-in-a-lifetime experiences and iconic sights you won't find anywhere else in the world.

So, what makes a trip truly life-changing? That answer varies from traveler to traveler, but one thing is for sure: From African safaris to classic road trips, this list will make you want to plan your next great adventure.

Deciding between the historic cities of Rome, Venice, Naples, and Florence for the top destination to visit feels impossible, so the entire country of Italy deserves a spot on your list. Start in the Eternal City and head north through the rolling hills of Tuscany to visit Florence, followed by Milan or Venice, or go south to the beaches of the beautiful Amalfi Coast and Sicily.

New York, New York

Visiting the Statue of Liberty , standing at the top of the Empire State Building, walking across the Brooklyn Bridge: These are just a few of the things you can only do in New York City. Whether you dream of visiting all the places you've seen on screen, catching a Broadway show, or eating your way through the city's diverse neighborhoods, there's no doubt that NYC deserves a spot on your list.

Tokyo, Japan

Old and new come together in Japan's bustling capital city. Historic temples and shrines, busy shopping districts, delicious food, and some of the world's best theme parks and attractions — whatever your interests, there's something for you in Tokyo.

Paris, France

From watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle and viewing famous works of art at world-renowned museums to eating delicious French pastries, there are innumerable reasons that Paris deserves a spot on your list. Of course, other dreamy French destinations like Mont-Saint-Michel, Chamonix, and the Riviera are well worth a visit, too.

Busy medinas, intricate architecture, and a unique combination of cultural influences make Morocco unlike anywhere else on the planet. Whether you're traveling to bustling Marrakesh, pretty coastal cities, or remote desert towns (or hopefully, all three), a trip to Morocco is bound to be one to remember.

Monica Farber/Travel + Leisure

From the whitewashed homes of Santorini to the Ios party scene to the relaxing atmosphere of Milos, there's a perfect Greek Island for every type of traveler. Island hopping gives you the chance to experience more of what the country has to offer, but plan to spend a couple of days in Athens at the beginning and/or end of your trip.

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Machu Picchu

Seeing the historic ruins of the Incan Empire set among the breathtaking Andes at Machu Picchu is an undeniably life-changing experience. The stunning citadel ruins of Machu Picchu are worth the journey — and for some travelers, that trip, often taken by train or on foot as a multi-day trek , is a big part of the experience. Editor’s note: Machu Picchu is currently closed due to civil unrest in Peru. Visit the  official website  for the latest news and reopening details.

African Safari

Seeing majestic animals like lions, elephants, and rhinos in the wild is a dream best accomplished with an African safari . South Africa, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Kenya are among the most popular safari destinations — and in each of those countries, you'll find incredible lodges and tour operators who can help you spot these creatures in their natural habitat.

Whether you dream of cruising down the famed Nile River, seeing the Pyramids of Giza, or visiting the ancient Valley of the Kings, Egypt's historic wonders make the destination completely unique (and worthy of a spot on your travel list).

Unlike many of the action-packed trips on this list, the Maldives is synonymous with relaxation, luxury, and romance. A stay in an overwater bungalow set atop turquoise blue waters is the ultimate getaway that's worth the long-haul flight and oftentimes pricey accommodations.

Antarctica Cruise

Hoping to visit all seven continents? Cross Antarctica off your list with a cruise. Several major cruise lines have journeys to Antarctica, offering incredible views of the ice and wildlife from the comfort and safety of a ship. Travelers typically fly in and out of Buenos Aires en route to Ushuaia (where most cruises depart from); we recommend spending a few days in the fascinating Argentine city before your expedition.

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Dubbed one of the natural wonders of the world, the Great Barrier Reef is a can't-miss for many wildlife lovers. Of course, Australia's gorgeous coastline, the iconic Sydney Opera House, and fuzzy creatures like kangaroos and koalas are also reasons to head to the destination. Fly into Sydney and spend a few days there before heading out to explore more of this expansive country teeming with natural beauty.

Galapagos Islands

Incredible and diverse plant and animal species make the Galapagos Islands another must-visit for nature-loving travelers. This stunning archipelago off the coast of Ecuador is best explored by cruise, so you can take in as many breathtaking landscapes and animals as possible during your trip.

Like the other countries on this list, India has countless destinations worth exploring, but one of the most famous attractions that travelers dream of seeing for themselves is the Taj Mahal. This 17th-century white marble mausoleum has drawn visitors to Agra for years. Luxury travelers might consider a train trip aboard the Maharajas' Express (with a stop at the Taj Mahal) as the ultimate experience. Travelers planning to visit the Taj Mahal or take the luxurious train ride will want to fly into Delhi, India's capital territory.

Petra, Jordan

The stunning ancient city of Petra is made up of several impressive structures carved into sandstone rock faces, including the famous Al-Khazneh. The city dates back thousands of years, making this UNESCO World Heritage site a must-visit for history buffs.

Passing through India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, China, Bhutan, and Nepal, the Himalayas are home to some of the world's highest peaks — and that means breathtaking mountain views, too. For adventurous and active travelers, climbing Mount Everest (or at least trekking to Everest Base Camp) is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

American National Park Road Trip

The classic American road trip is a mainstay on many travelers' lists — and for good reason. The country's incredible national parks , including Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, and Yosemite, are best explored on road trips with stops at charming small towns and kitschy roadside attractions.

Great Wall of China

Stretching across China for thousands of miles, with sections dating back nearly 2,000 years, the Great Wall is regarded as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Visitors can hike along parts of the wall — some areas are located within driving distance of Beijing, so it's a perfect day trip from the city.

Easter Island

The hundreds of monolithic moai statues have drawn curious visitors to Easter Island for years. This remote Polynesian island is worth the lengthy trip for travelers hoping to see these impressive human figures, while also soaking in some incredible coastal views.

Northern Lights Trip

Catching a glimpse of the elusive northern lights is possible in several destinations close to the Arctic Circle, including Alaska, Iceland, Canada, Greenland, Finland, Sweden, and Norway. All of these places have incredible viewpoints (and even hotels where you can see the phenomenon from your bed ), in addition to great, wintry scenery. (The lights are best viewed from late fall through early spring.)

Thailand and Vietnam

A trip through Southeast Asia is a must for any traveler, especially foodies who love street eats. While you could spend weeks in each of these countries, Thailand and Vietnam can easily be paired for an exciting trip packed with lush scenery, cultural experiences, and delicious food. Have a little extra time to spare? Add Cambodia to the mix and include a visit to expansive Angkor Wat.

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Local travel destinations you can hit on a long weekend

Long weekends are a great opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

While some prefer snuggling up and binge-watching their favorite series, others would rather get out and tick some places off their travel bucket list. Are you looking to spend your upcoming rest days doing the latter? 

Whether traveling with friends, family, or by yourself, you can explore plenty of awe-inspiring places. Here are some local travel spots you can visit for a quick adventure.

Minalungao National Park in Nueva Ecija

Want to spend some time with nature? Located in Gen. Tinio Nueva Ecija, Minalungao National Park is a protected area enacted in 1967 under Republic Act No. 5100. It’s known for its clean flowing river, towering rock formations, clean and peaceful environment as well as the high limestone walls on both sides leading to a cave.

Tinipak River in Daraitan, Tanay Rizal

Known as one of the top tourist destinations in Rizal Province, Daraitan features a trekking destination nestled within Sierra Madre—the longest mountain range in the Philippines. You can enjoy camping, river trekking, rock climbing, and swimming—all with the beauty of rivers, mountains, and rock formations serving as the perfect backdrop in your snaps.

La Jolla Luxury Beach Resort in Bagac, Bataan

The resort is a hidden gem in the western tip of Bataan that boasts a 60-hectare tropical estate. The place captures the hearts of its visitors as it only takes them a few steps before they reach a secluded beach offering a breathtaking view of the setting sun. 

La Jolla Luxury Beach Resort has a welcoming mood, thanks to its friendly staff and natural sceneries. It also has lots of facilities that can give you a relaxing time, such as its infinity pool and massage area.

Looking for a quick escape? Cavite houses fascinating historical sites such as Aguinaldo Shrine, Bonifacio Trial House, and the famous Corregidor Island . There are also hiking spots, including Mt. Pico de Loro, and swimming spots like Malibiclibic Falls and Balite Falls for the adventurous.

Even a few unspoiled beaches in Cavite are less busy than those in neighboring Batangas, such as Caynipa Cove, Paniman Beach, and Boracay de Cavite.

A river trip down the calm Maragondon River is also a must-try.

Another vacation-worthy destination near the metro is Tagaytay. It’s been a popular go-to place for long weekend getaways for years, and we totally get why.

Tagaytay has so many activities you can do for some fun and excitement. You can visit the People's Park in the Sky to enjoy the chilly weather from the highest point in the city and simply be in awe of the beauty of Taal Volcano along with its other picturesque views.

For kids and kids at heart, Skyranch is for you. It’s a leisure area with a mini amusement park featuring the Sky Eye—one of the biggest Ferris wheels in the country.

You can explore the Mahogany Market , which has been a go-to place for locals and visitors when it comes to treats and pasalubong. You can also enjoy some bulalo in Tagaytay at affordable prices when you get hungry.

Subic, Zambales

Subic, Zambales offers visitors a lot—from beach resorts, recreational places, and theme parks.

One of them is the Inflatable Island . This 4,200-square-meter spot is the first floating playground in Southeast Asia and the biggest in the continent, with different inflatable attractions like a giant swing and slide as well as giant trampolines in the water.

Apart from Inflatable Island, there’s also Ocean Adventure , which offers tourists an extensive list of water activities, such as swimming, interacting with sea animals, and an extensive collection of marine life.

If you want to see some wild and exotic animals up close, Zoobic Safari is for you. The park has areas for different creatures, such as bearcats, camels, wild cats, birds, reptiles, and many more. A must-try experience in Zoobic Safari is feeding the tigers from a protected vehicle.

Pampanga, approximately two hours from Manila, is a fantastic weekend getaway destination for its historical attractions, theme parks, and regional food.

It is home to several historic churches, which are considered national treasures. These include Betis Church of Guagua , the Metropolitan Cathedral of San Fernando , and San Guillermo Church of Bacolor .

Foodies will surely enjoy Pampanga, dubbed the "Culinary Capital of the Philippines," where most of the all-time crowd favorites—including sisig , tocino , and kare-kare —originated. If you want to try some mouthwatering Kapampangan dishes, you can visit some of the well-known “old kitchens of Pampanga,” such as Atching Lilian Borromeo’s Kitchen , Kabigting’s Halo-Halo , Susie’s Cuisine , and Everybody’s Café .

BONUS: Danasan Eco Adventure Park in Cebu

Not exactly a road trip if you're coming from Manila, but if you're up for some thrilling adventures, Danasan Eco Adventure Park in Danao City, Cebu is for you. This park offers a 2-kilometer ATV ride where you can try one of the bumpiest roads you can ever experience, a 700-meter curve trail with three laps of go-karts, a 440-meter-long zipline, and horseback riding. While doing these, you also witness Danasan’s beautiful, lush green mountain view.

Are you game for some extreme action? Try its Sky Bike and feel the cold breeze up in the sky. Want to have fun with water? The park also has kayaking and fish-feeding activities for a break from all the extreme rides.

Other activities in the park include wall climbing, wakeboarding, caving, tyrolean, and rappelling, among others.

Happy long weekend, everyone!

This article Local travel destinations you can hit on a long weekend was originally published in PhilSTAR L!fe

Finding Alexx

| Bucket list adventures around the globe

Bucket list travel , Homepage popular · April 16, 2023

The ultimate travel bucket list: 50+ epic experiences around the world

Want some inspiration for your travel bucket list? I’ve compiled more than 50 epic things to see, do and experience around the globe that are worthy of being at the top of any travel bucket list.

I’ve always been a sucker for a good list, and a travel bucket list is no different. I find that getting your ideas onto paper (or computer haha) help to organise your thoughts, let you prioritise them, and then make decision-making way easier.

Orrrr on the other hand, having a list of 50 epic bucket list experiences around the world might send you into a state of constant analysis paralysis, not knowing where to go next 🙃

Regardless of which way you’re going to go, this incredible travel bucket list is sure to inspire you for your future travels. I’ve listed some of the iconic bucket list experiences, like seeing the Taj Mahal and diving on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, but I’ve also included slightly lnoesser-known experiences like the world’s fastest rollercoaster, seeing bioluminescence in the ocean, and seeing elephants on the beach in Sri Lanka.

So open up your bucket list journal or Google Doc and start taking notes of which of these epic experiences you want to add to your travel bucket list.

Experiences to add to your travel bucket list

Adventure bucket list ideas.

Bungy jump or skydive

I feel like there’s no other way to start an ‘ultimate travel bucket list’ post apart from throwing yourself either out of a plane of off a platform tied by the ankles. And even so, I can promise you that I will never do either.

The best place to bungy jump in the world is hands down New Zealand, the original home of the commercial bungy jump since the first one in 1988. These days New Zealand has six different bungy sites to choose from, so add a bungy jump to your New Zealand bucket list.

If jumping from thousands of feet in the sky is more up your alley then choose your preferred landscape and book your trip. Skydive over coral reefs in Australia, man-made islands in Dubai, mountains in Switzerland or tropical rainforests in Hawaii, to name a few.

Go paragliding

For a similar thrill of flying without the feeling of falling, try paragliding instead, where you run off a mountain or similar platform and start gliding straight away without any freefall.

Paragliding can be as calm or as adrenaline-inducing as you want it (weather-dependent of course), you can enjoy a gentle float through the sky if you want a chilled experience, or ask your paragliding pilot for the ‘rollercoaster version’ as my pilot called it, where you can experience spins, spirals and strong G-forces as the chute is manoeuvered in certain ways.

I first paraglided in Interlaken, Switzerland, and have since done it twice in Queenstown, New Zealand.

Read more: The perfect five day Switzerland

Hike to Everest Base Camp, Nepal

This arduous but rewarding journey tops hiking bucket lists for adventure travellers all over the globe. and for good reason. Trek past Sherpa villages through unforgiving terrain en route to the foot of the world’s tallest mountain, reaching your final destination at an altitude of more than 5000m above sea level.

Soak up the views and enjoy feeling mind-numbingly insignificant while standing at Base Camp, surrounded by rugged peaks and dramatic valleys as far as the eye can see.

Go hot air ballooning in Cappadocia, Turkey

Seeing Cappadocia’s otherworldly landscapes from the dizzying heights of a hot air balloon ride at sunrise is one of the most magical travel experiences in the world.

The balloons go up at sunrise each day throughout the year (weather dependent), but I’d recommend spending at least a couple of days in Cappadocia to give yourself a plan b or c in case your first day is cancelled.

If a hot air balloon is out of your budget or your comfort zone, then you can still enjoy the beautiful display of balloons from one of Cappadocia’s many rooftop terraces.

Try a glacier heli-hike in New Zealand

New Zealand’s South Island is home to more than 2900 glaciers, and you can do a heli-hike on three of the main ones, Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier on the West Coast and the Tasman Glacier in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.

The helicopter flight alone will have you feeling like you’re in a David Attenborough documentary, before landing on the ice and trekking through frozen crevasses and marvelling at bright blue ice formations.

Read more: The best things to do in Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand

Go diving at the Great Barrier Reef in Australia

One of the Natural Wonders of the World, Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is certainly up there with the best places to scuba dive in the world. While much of the reef has fallen victim to coral bleaching from warming ocean temperatures as well as damage from weather events, there’s a huge focus on sustainability along the Queensland coast to try and protect and restore the reef.

Head to the outer reef for the most colourful coral and marine diversity, you can spot turtles, manta rays and plenty of vibrant tropical fish.

Read more: Sleeping in an underwater hotel room on the Great Barrier Reef

Ski in Whistler

Winter enthusiasts need to add the impressive Whistler ski resort to their travel bucket list, boasting more than 8000 acres of ski terrain just a few hours from Vancouver in British Columbia, Canada.

There’s a Whistler experience for everyone, from beginner slopes to expert off piste tours, as well as spa and wellness resorts, snowmobiling trips, snowshoeing trails, sightseeing gondolas and more.

Ride a motorbike over the Hai Van Pass in Vietnam

Known as one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic roads, the scenic Hai Van Pass runs parallel to the Vietnamese coastline on a 21km stretch of road between Hue and Danang, offering breathtaking views of the South China Sea.

Experiencing the winding roads and hairpin turns by motorbike is a rite of passage for visitors to Vietnam, and it’s a must do for any Vietnam itinerary.

If you prefer four wheels over two, there are also army jeep tours or private luxury transfers available.

Read more: An epic three week Vietnam itinerary

Ride the world’s fastest rollercoaster at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

The Formula Rossa is the rollercoaster version of an F1 car, reaching a top speed of 240km per hour (that’s 149mph) in just 4.9 seconds 🤯 riders have to wear protective goggles to shield their eyes from the sand while they race around the 2.2km track, all while trying to hold onto their stomach!

The rollercoaster can be found at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi which is home to some other record-breaking rides, including the world’s highest rollercoaster loop and an immersive coaster with the world’s first sideways rollercoaster drop.

I’m a bit of a theme park fiend myself, I’m trying to hit all the best theme parks in the world, and I could honestly spend days at Abu Dhabi doing those three epic rides over and over again.

Camp at the top of a mountain and wake up to watch the sunrise

An overnight hike to a viewpoint with a sunrise wake up is something for every hiker’s bucket list, and it is sure to make you feel connected to nature like nothing else.

Some of the best sunrise viewpoint hikes are in New Zealand’s South Island , the Dolomites in Italy , or British Columbia in Canada.

Soar like a bird on an epic zipline

I looove a good zipline, there’s nothing like feeling the wind in your hair while you marvel at panoramic views all around you! There are loads of bucket list ziplines around the world but some of my favourites are:

• Flåm Zipline in Flåm, Norway (the longest one in Scandinavia)
• The Ultimate Canopy Tour in Rotorua, New Zealand
• The First Flyer in Grindelwald, Switzerland
• Dubai’s XLine between skyscrapers
• Treetops Adventure in Far North Queensland, Australia
• Ziplining with a view in Queenstown, New Zealand
• SuperFly Ziplines in Whistler, Canada

Bucket list events around the world

Visit Japan during the cherry blossom season

Japan’s ‘sakura’ season brings literally millions of tourists to see the beautiful pink and white flower displays during their peak, typically from late March through to early April. It’s one of the busiest times of the year to visit Japan but the crowds are worth it, just expect to get up early and venture beyond the main photo spots to be able to get shots without loads of people in the background.

See the fireworks at the Eiffel Tower on Bastille Day

I’m a sucker for a good fireworks display, and the Bastille Day fireworks in Paris are one of the world’s best! There’s just something about seeing neon colours shoot into the sky, and they’re made even better when combined with a light show on one of the most famous landmarks on the globe, and an epic soundtrack that lines up with the bursts and booms of the pyrotechnics.

Bastille Day is France’s national holiday, held on July 14th every year with a variety of events like parades, concerts, military flyovers and more, but the fireworks alone make it worth visiting Paris at this time of the year. You can see the fireworks from river cruises, hotel terraces or viewpoints, but the best spot is from the Champs de Mar right in front of the Eiffel Tower. It’s totally free to enter but you’ll need to get there hours in advance to get a good spot, we got there at about 4pm and enjoyed a picnic afternoon tea/dinner before the fireworks started at 11pm.

Book your accommodation in advance to ensure you get a decent deal, places get booked up quickly and prices skyrocket closer to the date.

Do the Rickshaw Run

If you’re up for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, the Rickshaw Run is an epic road trip not for the faint of heart.

The original Rickshaw Run is a 3500km journey across India in a three-wheeled rickshaw (or as the Rickshaw Run team calls it, a ‘glorified lawnmower’), with no set route, just a departure point and a finish line with a rough guideline of how to get between. Find two friends to join, submit your rickshaw design to have it painted before you arrive, and set off on a crazy adventure, with your fingers crossed for minimal breakdowns (both mechanical and emotional). The Rickshaw Run has recently expanded into Sri Lanka and the Himalayas too.

Visit a Christmas market in Europe

Europe’s Christmas markets help make up for the short days and cold temperatures as the continent creeps closer to mid-winter, and for anyone who loves celebrating the festive season, they’re absolutely something that needs to be on your Europe bucket list.

There are Christmas markets all over Europe but some of the most authentic ones can be found in Strasbourg and Colmar in France, Cologne and Nuremberg in Germany, and Innsbruck and Salzburg in Austria. I spent a month last year seeing the European Christmas markets by train , highly recommend!

Read more: Europe Christmas market train itinerary

Drink beer at Oktoberfest

The world’s largest beer festival is held annually in Munich, starting in mid-September (I know, false advertising) and ending in early October. Welcoming more than six million people each year, the festival is a celebration of Bavarian culture, with plenty of hearty meals, huge kegs of beer and traditional music on offer.

Read more: Oktoberfest on a budget with Stoke Travel

Spend a weekend at Coachella

Topping party-goers bucket lists from all over the globe, Coachella is held in Indio, California over two weekends in April each year with a total attendance of about 750,000 over the six days. The line up is often one of the most awaited announcements each year, with tickets selling out in minutes at each release.

I ticked Coachella off my personal travel bucket list way back in 2012 when I was studying in the USA, and I can honestly say it still stands as one of the best weekends of my life!

Go to India for Holi Festival

Holi Festival is a significant event on the Hindu calendar, marking the beginning of spring with a chaotic display of colourful powder being thrown amongst crowds of people, celebrating the victory of good over evil. It’s a bit of an assault on the senses, with vibrant paint sticking to your hair and skin, loud music pumping throughout the cities and towns, and deliciously sweet treats being offered from roadside stalls, but it’s an unforgettable experience nonetheless.

I visited India as a solo female traveller and had a fantastic time with no safety concerns whatsoever, however I have heard that Holi can be a hub for assaults and unwanted attention due to the sheer number of people roaming the streets. If you’re a woman travelling to Holi solo or travelling with other female friends and aren’t super confident about dealing with the risks of crowds, I’d highly recommend going with a group tour like G Adventures or Contiki to feel a bit safer.

Experience Mardi Gras in New Orleans

New Orleans’ French Quarter is a vibrant hub of culture and entertainment at any time of the year, but during Mardi Gras it’s truly taken to the absolute next level. Weeks of parades, shows and street festivals turn this part of the city into a party paradise, where revellers can dress up in colourful costumes, dance the night away under street lights and catch beads and other ‘throws’ being chucked into the crowd from parade floats.

Mardi Gras’ date changes each year as it’s based on the Christian dates of Ash Wednesday, Lent and Easter, but it’s always in either February or March.

Go to Rio for Carnival

For a similar celebration with a South American twist, head down to Rio de Janeiro for Carnival, a massive street festival which boasts the title of biggest carnival in the world. With two million people partying on the streets per day , you can see why this buzzing event is worthy for travel bucket lists.

Attendants can soak up the incredible atmosphere, search for the most elaborate costumes, groove to samba music and join one of the blocos (block parties).

Go to Burning Man

Another desert festival to add to your wanderlist is Burning Man, an event dedicated to rejecting capitalism and instead encouraging self-reliance, inclusion and self-expression. Burning Man is a little bit like the ‘Fight Club’ of festivals, never talk about Burning Man, so what happens in the desert kind of stays in the desert!

The mysterious must-do hosts about 80,000 people each year at a temporary city built by its participants each year, with the entire thing packed up at the end leaving no trace behind.

Go to Mexico for Dia de los Muertos

The Mexican holiday ‘Dia de los Muertos’, or ‘Day of the Dead’, celebrates the lives of loved ones that have passed away with colourful parades and elaborate ‘ofrendas’ (tributes) welcoming the spirits of the dead back to the world of the living for a quick visit.

While the name sounds morbid, the festival is anything but, with bright flowers, intricate face painting, joyful music and delicious traditional meals all available to enjoy.

Spend St Patrick’s Day in Dublin, Ireland

Experiencing Dublin’s pub culture should be on your bucket list anyway, but visiting the city for St Patrick’s Day (March 17th) is truly something else. The day honours St Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, and celebrates Irish culture and heritage with street parades, Irish music, traditional dances and, of course, a lot of pints of Guinness.

Nature & wildlife bucket list experiences

See a fjord from the water

A fjord is a narrow inlet of water that runs from the sea to far inland, with steep cliffs on each side. They’re different to rivers because they were carved by glaciers (a gazillion years ago), rather than being formed by the movement of water.

As landscapes go, fjords are one of the most dramatic scenes you can find around the world. The inland portion of a fjord is typically calm and still as it’s so far from the open ocean, which results in brilliant boating conditions and mind-blowing reflections.

You can find fjords in Norway, Chile, Canada, Greenland, Alaska and New Zealand (we spell it ‘fiords’ here, due to a historic typo haha) and the best way to see them by farrrr is from a boat trip. Some bucket list fjord experiences to add to your future travel plans:

• A thrilling Fjordsafari RIB tour through Nærøyfjord in Norway (pictured above)
• A silent cruise through Nærøyfjord (honestly do both, totally different experiences!)
• A day trip to see Hardangerfjord from Bergen, Norway
• A road trip through the Arctic fjords in Tromsø, Norway
• A cruise on Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound in New Zealand
• A kayak trip around Milford Sound

Swim with wild dolphins

Experience the ocean’s most playful residents with an up close and personal dolphin swim, where curious wild dolphins will zip and zoom all around you in the water. I’ve had two incredible wild dolphin swims in New Zealand, one in Picton (calmer ocean conditions as it’s in a sheltered area) and one in Kaikoura (rougher conditions but more dolphins), and you can also find ethical wild dolphin encounters in Australia, Hawaii and in some countries in Central America.

Read more: Swimming with dolphins in Kaikoura

See the Northern or Southern Lights

With bright rays of green, pink and purple dancing in the sky, the ethereal phenomenon of the aurora is absolutely mind-blowing to see with your own eyes. It’s actually caused by electrically charged particles from the sun colliding with Earth’s magnetic field, and is easiest to see closest to the magnetic poles.

The Northern Lights (a.k.a. Aurora Borealis ) can typically be seen from places like Finland, Norway and Iceland in Europe as well as northern Canada, whereas the Southern Lights ( Aurora Australis ) are most likely to be seen from southern New Zealand and Australia, although they are rarer to see than their northern counterparts as there’s less land close to the south pole.

I’d highly recommend doing a Northern Lights tour (sometimes called an ‘aurora chase’ or ‘aurora hunt’) with a local guide, they’ll know how to read the forecast, how to navigate cloud cover and will also have all the gear needed to take magical photos.

My recommended Northern Lights tour operators are:

• Wonderlapland in Rovaniemi, Finland
• Lofoten Lights in Lofoten Islands, Norway
• Chasing Lights in Tromso, Norway

You can also book some incredible accommodation for aurora viewing, like a glass igloo in Rovaniemi where you can see the Northern Lights from your bed or your private hot tub 💚 how dreamy!

Read more: The perfect three week Scandinavia itinerary

Do a safari in Africa

Easily the most sought after animal experience in the world, an African safari is something all wildlife lovers should have on their bucket list. Search for the Big Five – lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards and rhinos – in their natural habitats, as well as spotting other majestic creatures like giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, monkeys and hippos.

There are plenty of safari options in Africa depending on what you’re looking for, from budget-friendly camping trips through to ultra-luxe lodge-hopping with scenic flights or hot air balloon trips.

See elephants on the beach in Sri Lanka

While I haven’t been fortunate enough to experience Africa’s wildlife yet, I was able to spend my 31st birthday at a stunning eco-friendly safari lodge in Sri Lanka’s Yala National Park , where wild elephants roam the beach right in front of the bar and restaurant.

Uga Chena Escapes is one of the most incredible places I’ve ever stayed (and I’ve stayed at lots of incredible places!) and it was an unforgettable trip, with luxurious cabins complete with free-standing bath tub and private pool, world-class all-inclusive food and drinks, and expert rangers taking you on daily safari drives to spot elephants, crocodiles, monkeys and the elusive leopard.

Read more: A detailed review of the stunning Uga Chena Huts in Sri Lanka

Set foot on Antarctica

One of the most remote destinations on the planet, visiting Antarctica is a top-of-the-bucket-list contender for travellers all over the globe. Antarctica obviously isn’t your classic tourist destination, with harsh weather conditions and vast expanses of nothingness, but the giant icebergs, thriving penguin colonies and unique ecosystem make it worth the trouble to get there.

The most common way to reach the southernmost continent on Earth is by cruise from the South American port of Ushuaia, Argentina, though there are also a limited number of cruises from New Zealand each season as well as a handful of flights from Chile or South Africa.

Visit the Gatorade Blue glacial lakes in Canada

The Canadian Rockies offer some of the most mesmerising landscapes of anywhere in the world, where unbelievably blue glacial lakes are bordered by jagged snow-capped peaks and thick pine forests.

I’d recommend getting a campervan and road tripping through Jasper National Park and Banff National Park to make the most of your time in this part of the world. Having your own transport, accommodation and self-catering facilities not only saves money but gives you much more flexibility to get to the main lakes like Louise, Moraine and Peyto outside of peak tour hours, which means smaller crowds and a better experience.

Watch stars in an International Dark Sky Reserve

For a truly humbling travel bucket list experience, head into an International Dark Sky Reserve to learn about astronomy, connect with nature, and see the night sky at its absolute best.

While there are many places around the globe where you can enjoy a fantastic display of twinkling stars, there are 21 certified International Dark Sky Reserves which have specific policies in place to minimise light pollution and preserve dark sky tourism.

Some of the most renowned IDSRs are Aoraki Mackenzie in New Zealand which includes stunning Lake Tekapo, Snowdonia National Park in Wales, Big Bend in the USA and Alpes Azur Mercantour in France.

Read more: The best things to do in Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

Float in the Dead Sea

Located between Jordan and Israel, the Dead Sea is almost ten times saltier than the average ocean salt content, making it impossible to sink which is a very strange sensation! The water and mud is packed with minerals, providing therapeutic properties for tourists looking to rest their muscles and rehydrate their skin.

Before you go, make sure you don’t shave any part of your body within the two or three days prior, because if the salt gets into any micro-cuts you’ll be in serious pain.

Read more: The ideal 7 day Jordan itinerary

See bioluminescence in the ocean

Bioluminescence is a natural phenomenon where living organisms emit light, and one of the most common ways to witness it is bioluminescent micro-plankton which lights up when disturbed, like when waves crash on the beach. You can witness in many places around the world including Puerto Rico, the Maldives , Thailand, Mexico and Japan.

Read more: A Maldives solo travel guide

Relax in the Blue Lagoon in Iceland

This geothermal pool complex in southwest Iceland is just a short drive from Reykjavik’s airport, making it an easy first stop or final destination of any Iceland road trip. The water is mineral-rich, with high concentrations of silica, algae and sulfur, great for a relaxing and rejuvenating break from Iceland’s typically harsh weather conditions.

There’s no denying that the Blue Lagoon is heavily commercialised, with expensive tickets and thousands of visitors each day, so for somewhere a bit lower key you could try the new Sky Lagoon which boasts an infinity-edge pool with ocean views. Dreamy!

Read more: Four day South Iceland road trip itinerary

Food & drink bucket list experiences

Eat croissants in a Parisian park or square

Paris has a bit of a reputation for not meeting travellers’ expectations, but after five visits to the City of Lights and Love, I stand by the fact that it’s in my list of all-time favourite cities. I adore French cuisine (and by that I mean pastries, bread and cheese), I know a little bit of the language, and I feel like everyone’s life would be happier if they had beautiful squares and parks to spend their lunch break at.

Search the local boulangeries (bakeries) to find the ultimate croissant or pain au chocolat, then head to Place des Vosges, Jardin du Luxembourg or Jardin des Tuileries to enjoy the flaky, buttery goodness.

Learn local recipes at a Vietnamese cooking class

There’s no better way to immerse yourself in local cuisine than by taking part in a cooking class, and Vietnam’s fresh ingredients, flavoursome herbs and spices, and budget-friendly prices, make it the perfect place to try your hand at cooking up local dishes.

Most cooking tours will take you through a bustling market before heading to the kitchen to make things like rice paper rolls, bánh mi and phở from scratch.

Read more: How to spend three weeks in Vietnam

Go winery-hopping in Napa Valley

Whether you’re a vino aficionado or a newbie to the wine world, a winery tour is always a brilliant way to get an understanding of a region’s culture. The Napa Valley in northern California is a wine country boasting more than 400 wineries, ranging from small, family-owned boutique suppliers through to commercial giants bottling some of the most popular wines in the USA.

Do a food tour in Bologna, Italy

As the gastronomic hub of Italy, and one of the stand-out culinary capitals in the world, Bologna is a must-visit destination for any foodie traveller. Easily visited with a day trip from Florence , Bologna is best explored by food tour with a passionate local guiding you around the city’s best eateries.

On my recent visit I did a food tour with local legend Mattia from Delicious Bologna , and it was genuinely one of the best food days of my life. We tried cheese, cured meats, aged balsamic vinegar, local wine, multiple varieties of pasta, fresh gelato and more! The Emilia-Romagna region, where Bologna is located, is famous for its top-notch ingredients and local artisans, so you’re eating the best food, in the best food region, in one of the best food countries. Divine!

Read more: 50+ epic things to see and do in Italy

Eat at a Michelin-starred restaurant

Dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant is the ultimate gastronomic experience, and it’s something you can tick off your bucket list in cities all over the world. To get a coveted star a restaurant has to be the crème de la crème in terms of food quality, service, presentation and atmosphere, and many are booked out weeks or months in advance by connoisseurs wanting to get a taste (literally) of their award-winning dishes.

Dress up for a fancy high tea in London

A trip to the UK wouldn’t be complete without partaking in the quintessential British of an afternoon tea of club sandwiches, scones and, of course, tea, in a fancy tea room.

London has plenty of iconic tea rooms to choose from, including the luxurious Ritz London, Claridges or Savoy, or go for a more modern and Instagrammable experience at Sketch London or Prêt-à-Portea at the Berkeley.

Landmarks to add to your travel bucket list

See the view from the Burj Khalifa

Standing at a staggering height of 828 metres, the tallest building in the world is Dubai’s Burh Khalifa. Head up to the observation deck on the 124th floor for panoramic views of the city’s iconic skyline and the desert beyond.

The structure is equally, if not more impressive from ground level, and you’ll probably feel a little dizzy when looking up towards the building from right below. Don’t miss the free fountain shows that run in front of the Burj Khalifa each evening.

Read more: What to do with three days in Dubai

Visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise

Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful buildings on Earth, Agra’s Taj Mahal is an Indian icon and somewhere you have to have on your travel bucket list. Sunrise is the best time to visit, when the fog lifts and soft sunlight illuminates the white marble mausoleum.

As you can imagine, the Taj is packed with visitors every second of the day, so your only chance of getting the main photo spots with no one in the background is to line up super early and boost to them as soon as you get through security.

I was travelling solo in India and you can’t take tripods into the Taj Mahal complex, so I decided to book a local photographer who was an expert at snapping the best photos. The Taj opens 30 minutes before sunrise and we got there 30 minutes before that to be close to the front of the line. Because I was with a local guide we got to go through the ‘locals’ line which is faster and we were the first ones through the security gates! We headed straight to the famous Diana’s Bench to get a few good shots with literally no one in the background before moving on quickly to other spots, and we were always finished before the next people caught up.

Wander around the Ancient City of Petra

Jordan’s ancient city of Petra is a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site that was once the capital of the Nabatean Kingdom, between the 4th century BC and 2nd century AD. It’s home to an incredible network of ancient tombs, temples and houses, carved into orange sandstone cliffs, and is one of the top bucket list experiences for those travelling to the Middle East.

Walk 2km through the winding gorge known as the Siq to reach Petra’s main monument, the Treasury (locally known as Al-Khazneh ), a towering temple at 39 metres high. But the treasures don’t stop there, I’d recommend venturing further into the city and climbing the 850 steps to the Monastery, equally as impressive with less crowds. Just maybe don’t do it in the middle of the day in August like I did, or you might die from exhaustion!

Read more: Solo female travel in Jordan

Spend a day exploring Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is a giant temple complex in Siem Reap, Cambodia, with more than 70 temples and other religious buildings set amongst 400 square kilometres of Angkor Archaeological Park.

It was built in the 12th century by a Khmer as a tribute to the Hindu god Vishnu, before being converted to a Buddhist temple in the 14th century. It was abandoned in the 15th century and unused until it was rediscovered in the late 19th century, these days hosting millions of visitors from all over the world each year.

Book a local guide to take you on a proper tour and teach you all about Khmer history and culture while you admire the temple ruins.

Hike up to Machu Picchu

The ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu is one of South America’s most important archaeological sites, built into the steep mountains of Peru’s Andes in the 15th century. With sacred temples, stone houses and agricultural terraces still standing at 2430m above sea level, the UNESCO-listed site is an incredible example of the Inca civilisation’s impressive engineering skills that were well before their time.

Travellers can make the pilgrimage to Machu Picchu along the famous 42km Inca Trail hike, or there are taxi/bus/train combos available for those not so keen on the walk.

Other epic experiences for your travel bucket list

Explore Europe by train

Sure, flights between European hubs might be crazy cheap, but if you’re travelling for an extended period with lots of stops along the way, chances are a train journey will be more comfortable, scenic and probably cheaper overall, and it’s way better for the environment.

I recently spent two months in Europe visiting 23 cities in 11 different countries using a Eurail Pass , which saved me more than €1400 compared to point-to-point tickets and significantly more compared to buying last minute flights in the lead up to Christmas.

Some noteworthy trains in Europe are:

• The Glacier Express and Bernina Express in Switzerland (they’re both part of the country’s Grand Train Tour )
• The Flåmsbana and Bergen Railway in Norway
• The West Highland Line in Scotland
• The Cinque Terre train in Italy
• The Santa Claus Express in Finland

Read more: The most beautiful train journeys in Europe

Road trip around New Zealand and Australia

I might be biased because this is my corner of the world, but you’d be hard-pressed to find better road trip destinations than New Zealand and Australia.

New Zealand boasts a superb range of scenery within easy driving distance, from paradise beaches to magical fjords to glacial lakes flanked by snowy mountains. You could easily spend months here and never get bored, but a few weeks per island is enough to give you a taste of what Aotearoa has to offer.

Australia on the other hand is much, much bigger and would require the better part of a year to see all the main spots, but a shorter trip could still have you ticking off bucket list destinations like the tropical coast of Queensland, Tasmania’s unspoiled national parks, Western Australia’s dreamy beaches and the buzzing cities of Sydney or Melbourne.

• The ultimate New Zealand South Island road trip
• A detailed guide to travelling Australia
• Bucket list experiences in New Zealand
• Bucket list experiences in Australia

Go on a working holiday

Leisure trips are loads of fun, but nothing compares to actually moving abroad to work and live. Your options for working holidays will depend on your passport and visa requirements, but some popular options are Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the USA, UK, France and Argentina.

Living abroad can be daunting, but it’s one of the best ways to meet new people, open your eyes to other ways of living, and hone your independence and problem solving skills.

Sing karaoke on an overnight ferry between Helsinki and Stockholm

This weird and wonderful bucket list journey is one that I didn’t even know about until I was planning my own no-fly three week Scandinavia itinerary !

The Silja ferry runs between Helsinki and Stockholm with a 17 hour overnight journey, but this is no normal ferry… it’s an actual cruise ship 😱

The ship can hold more than 2500 passengers and boasts comfy cabins (ranging from simple through to luxury), a casino, duty-free shopping, plenty of restaurants, a cocktail bar and entertainment lounge with shows throughout the night, a gorgeous viewing lounge and open top deck for archipelago views, and even a wellness area with hot tubs and sauna.

It’s a brilliant way to get between the two capitals and it’s a great example of ‘it’s about the journey, not the destination’. Make sure to get involved in karaoke at the cocktail lounge!

Watch a show on NYC’s Broadway or London’s West End

Witnessing a live performance of award-winning musicals like Wicked, Hamilton or the Book of Mormon is a must-do for any theatre geeks, and there’s a seemingly endless selection to choose from in entertainment hubs like Broadway, the West End or Las Vegas.

Sail a yacht around the Mediterranean

If spending your days swimming in crystal clear bays and your evenings sipping happy hour cocktails at beachfront bars sounds like an absolute dream for you, book your next trip to the Mediterranean for a spot of island hopping around Greece or Croatia.

I sailed through Croatia’s islands with the legends at Medsailors a few years back and loved it so much that I’m heading to Greece in a few months to do their tour there next!

Read more: Why you should sail Croatia with Medsailors

Visit the place where your parents/grandparents were born

If your parents or grandparents were born elsewhere to where you grew up, you should definitely have their home country on your travel bucket list for a future trip.

If they’re still around then consider taking them with you for an unforgettable family experience, if they can’t travel then be sure to bring home a memento of your trip, and if they’re no longer with us then consider doing some family research to find a particularly special place to visit or distant friends or relatives to meet when you’re there.

Drive Route 66 from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California

The road trip of all road trips, driving Route 66 is an 3940km (2448 mile) drive from the Windy City (Chicago) through to the famous ocean pier of Santa Monica in coastal California. This historic highway passes through eight states, via vintage diners, iconic roadside motels and a number of National Parks you could stop at on the way.

Stay in an overwater bungalow

As far as bucket list accommodation goes, an overwater bungalow probably tops the list for millions of travellers around the world. Everyone wants to know what it’s like to get out of bed and jump straight into the ocean direct from your private bungalow’s deck.

The Maldives and French Polynesia are probably the most famous destinations for overwater bungalows, but you can find some more affordable options in Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines and Fiji.

I stayed in a basic but beautiful overwater bungalow in Vietnam for less than $65USD per night, including breakfast! I think it’s probably the cheapest overwater bungalow in the world, and it’s called Naomi Resort in Phu Quoc.

Read more: The best things to do in Phu Quoc, Vietnam

Fly first class

See how the 1% travel by booking yourself a seat in first class for an extra special treat. First class tickets are unsurprisingly super expensive, but if you’re smart with your loyalty points and travel plans, you might be able to get a crazy cheap first class experience.

I recently flew first class on Emirates (!!!) from Sri Lanka to the Maldives, spending less than $115USD on the flight. I paid for the rest with Emirates Skywards miles which I had accumulated from a few years of travel, but I was never super loyal to the airline and didn’t have a points credit card. This particular flight is just a very cost-effective way of flying first class, it’s only 1h 50m (in my case even shorter due to a pesky tailwind) but you get all the epic Emirates first class benefits of fancy champagne or port, Arabic coffee, a three course meal, lie flat seat, a privacy door and top-notch service.

Learn a new language through immersion

There’s no better way to learn a new language than to throw yourself in the deep end and just move to a non-English-speaking country, where you’re forced to communicate in a foreign tongue.

If you studied French or Spanish at high school, why not move to Europe or South America for six months and see how quickly you can pick it back up? Or if you’re brand new, I’d recommend booking in to some beginner classes in your new destination to help you hit the ground running with things like introductions, directions and basic conversation.

Backpack through Southeast Asia

It’s a backpacker rite of passage to head to the budget-friendly region of Southeast Asia and spend a few months exploring in elephant pants, eating banana pancakes, and considering never returning to an actual desk ever again.

Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam are an easy trifecta if you have at least a few weeks, and if you’re staying for longer you could add on unspoiled landscapes in Laos, hectic cities in Malaysia and the cultural melting pot of Singapore, or venture slightly further to the dreamy islands in Indonesia or paradise beaches in the Philippines.

Volunteer to support local community and environment

Give back while you’re out seeing the world with a trip that involves volunteering your time and skills. There are loads of volunteering options around the globe, as well as small group tours like Intrepid and G Adventures that often include an element of volunteering or some kind of community service in their trip itineraries.

Just be aware of the ethics around how to volunteer in the right way, like not doing anything you’re unqualified for (e.g. building houses when you have no idea what you’re doing), avoiding any multi-day volunteering programmes involving children unless you’re a trained educator or medical professional, and not participating in anything where wild animals are held captive or used for entertainment purposes.

Some good examples of ethical volunteering opportunities are marine conservation programmes, turtle hatching and protection, beach clean ups, shelters for dogs and cats, teaching English if you’re qualified, or helping NGOs with things like social media, marketing and admin if you’ve got the correct permits to work and are providing additional support rather than taking away a job that a local should be paid for.

Wowza, if you’ve made it to the end of this insanely long travel bucket list then I’m impressed! With all that in mind, what is at the top of your bucket list? Let me know in the comments!

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Bucket list travel on a budget: Expert tips for airfare, loyalty programs, credit card perks and more

Nicky Kelvin from The Points Guy dives into ways to save this summer.

Many travelers have their sights set on summer getaways , but with everything from baggage fees to fuel costs impacting the price of a ticket, "Good Morning America" is asking travel experts to share tips for booking bucket list destinations on a budget and finding savings along the way.

Travel expert Nicky Kelvin, senior director of content for The Points Guy, offered his tips for affordable travel techniques.

Where to find the best flight deals

Kelvin encourages travelers to utilize Google Flights and other free price-tracking tools to compare fare prices and snag the best deal.

He also suggests using both the calendar and map features within Google Flights to see which airports, dates and destinations how the lowest fare.

From the Google Flights homepage on a computer, click "explore destinations" and select a departure city without adding a destination. Then zoom out on the map to see the best prices for destinations all over the world.

Get the most out of free travel loyalty programs

Travelers should be earning points for anything and everything that they are buying or booking from airline and hotels to car rentals, Kelvin said.

In addition to the points that can can help travelers earn free flights and hotel stays, Kelvin said to look for extra perks just for joining.

Hyatt rewards, for example, offers all guests free breakfast.

For Thrifty Car Rental and Dollar Car Rental, he said you can add your spouse or domestic partner as an additional driver for free.

Loyalty programs are great for airlines too. JetBlue, for example, allows enrolled customers -- even if they don't have enough points for a flight -- to use points for discounts. Plus, with any airline, as you accumulate points to earn status, you can get free seating upgrades.

Travel credit cards with cash back perks

Along with earning points, travel credit cards give you protection for your trip like insurance to help with lost or damaged baggage and trip cancellation protection

Chase debuts new airport lounge: Gourmet menus, sleek interiors, free facials redefine hospitality for airport travel

As for credit cards, The Points Guy team suggests the Capital One Venture Rewards credit card as an all-around pick -- you get 75,000 miles after meeting your minimum spend in the first three months. Which Kelvin said is a value of over $1,300.

If you're looking to earn the most miles, he said look to the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card.

"You'll earn the most points on all your purchases with this one," he said.

Finally, if you want a credit card with no fee, Kelvin suggested the Bilt Mastercard, which he said is particularly great for renters because you can earn points on what's likely someone's biggest expense.

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Save money on international phone plans for summer trips.

If someone's trip is taking them out of the country, using a cell phone internationally can cost $10 to 15 per day. For a family of four, that's more than $400 for a week.

If your phones support eSIM, Kelvin suggested purchasing a data plan for your destination through an app such as Airalo, Truphone or GigSky.

For example, one of Airalo's global SIM plans costs $9 for one week, which could save a family close to $350 dollars, depending on their existing international coverage.

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More From Forbes

9 bucket list luxury cruising destinations for 2024.

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Hilltop houses and Greek Orthodox church dwarfed by cruise ship anchored offshore, Gialos (aka ... [+] Yialos), Symi (aka Simi), Rhodes, Dodecanese Islands, South Aegean, Greece, Europe.

Cruise vacations are a wonderful way to visit multiple destinations in one trip and unpack only once. And while cruises may not give people multiple days in each destination, it acts as a sampler for people to discover new places that they may possibly want to return to later.

Top Luxury Cruise Destinations

Knowing when to visit and what to explore can help people make the right decision for which to cruise take. The Caribbean and Mexico are the most common cruise destinations that people may think of, there are plenty of other bucket list destinations worth exploring. Here are some of the most popular among them and some of the latest news in the cruise industry .

1. Mediterranean

Villefranche-sur-mer on the French Riviera in summer

From Spain to Turkey and everywhere in between, these are highly popular sailings that can book up quickly. The best time to travel is during the summer months when the most ships are sailing in the Mediterranean, but prepare for hot weather. Many cruise lines move their ships to the Caribbean during the winter months.

The Spanish coastline, French Riviera, Amalfi Coast, Greek islands and Turkish ports are some of the highlight destinations on these routes. Among the busiest departure ports for these cruises are Athens, Rome (Civitavecchia) and Barcelona, and some travelers like to extend their cruise with a pre- or post-cruise stay in these cities. Taking a cruise here is a great way to visit many countries in one trip.

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Evrima is sailing its inaugural season.

Among the new ships in the region for this year is Silversea’s Silver Ray, the second in the Nova class for the line. The new Sun Princess from Princess Cruises started sailing the Med this year. The second yacht in the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is Evrima, which will start sailing in the Mediterranean later this year. Also new for the season is the National Geographic Day Tours sailings from Holland America that give travelers the change to sail with a National Geographic trained guide and explore ports with an expert.

MSC World Europa is the first Liquified Natural Gas-fueled ship in the company's fleet. The company ... [+] has a goal to achieve net-zero greenhouse-gas emissions for its entire fleet.

MSC Euribia and MSC World Europa are two of the most popular ships to sail in the region. The Italian-born company is especially appealing for travelers because its ships board new passengers every day unlike other cruises that start and end on a particular date. This schedule flexibility means travelers can choose which ports where they want to embark. Its ships have numerous specialty restaurants, engaging theater shows and family-friendly pool areas.

Another cruise line, SeaDream, operates differently than other companies by arriving in busy ports in the afternoon when most other cruise passengers are reboarding their ships. SeaDream then stays until midnight, or sometimes overnight, to give travelers the chance to explore without “people pollution.”

2. Australia and New Zealand

The famous Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge

These cruises showcase some of the top destinations down under. The best time to take a cruise is between December and February, which is summer in the Southern Hemisphere. The weather can be quite warm, but it is an ideal time to see major cities like Sydney and Auckland, explore the Great Barrier Reef or the Kimberley region on the Australian west coast. For those that want to extend their trip, they can visit major tourist sights like Ayers Rock in the center of the country and wine country regions in both countries.

The Kimberley region in Australia is a new destination for Seabourn.

New for the season is Seabourn Pursuit, which will sail the Kimberley region, the first time Seabourn visits the region. To honor the new itinerary, the cruise line named the Western Kimberley traditional land owners, the Wunambal Gaambera Aboriginal Corporation, as godparents of Seabourn Pursuit . Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony, part of the Abercrombie & Kent brand, will sail around both countries this spring.

Oceania Cruises is known for its overnight stays in cities in the South Pacific including Melbourne and Bali in Indonesia .

Snow melts slowly from the mountains as spring approaches at the end of May in south-central Alaska

Glacier Bay National Park and the Hubbard Glacier are top sights on an Alaska cruise sailing, which is best during the spring and summer months when the temperatures are not frigid. Sailings typically take place between April and October. Holland America is a leader in this part of the world, but many cruise lines send their ships here for the dramatic scenery. This is one of those ideal trips for a multi-generational trip.

Edge is one of the newest ships in the cruise line's fleet.

New for the season is Celebrity Edge, a dramatic ship with a cantilevered bar and restaurant known as the Magic Carpet and attached to the side of the ships and can be lowered closer to sea level for an up-close look at stunning glaciers. Among the top news for Alaska’s cruise ports is a new cruise terminal in the state capital, Juneau, and a new 28-day sailing from Holland America. Don’t miss the new seasonal drink “Killer Whale Pale Ale,” which Holland America is launching this year on its Alaska sailings.

4. Antarctica

Cruises sail through the Lemaire Channel

Cruises are the most common way to visit Antarctica, and there are all kinds of ships of varying sizes and price points. These are typically not cheap trips, but it is one of the most bucket list trips you can take. The cruise season in Antarctica is between November and February, which is summer in the Southern Hemisphere. Don’t be fooled though, it will still be cold.

These sailings give passengers the chance to set foot on this remote continent amid massive glaciers and snow-covered mountains. Bird spotting and thousands of penguins are just some of the animal life people will see. Many travelers like to take the Arctic plunge when they jump into the frigid water for a brief second.

Scenic Eclipse II has its own helicopter.

Atlas Ocean just christened two Polar ships that will sail from Patagonia to Antarctica. Seabourn Venture is an expedition ship that was christened in Antarctica and is a great way to enjoy nature without giving up luxury. Don’t miss Scenic Eclipse II, which is an elegant yacht that comes equipped with a helicopter for birds eye views and a submarine for fisheye photo opps.

5. Panama Canal

The Panama Canal has cruise and cargo ships passing through.

Going through the locks of the Panama Canal gives travelers an up-close experience of this architectural marvel. Between November and April, taking a cruise around Central America and passing through the canal is ideal since temperatures are not as hot and humid as the summer. Some cruise lines move their ships between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans when they change destinations for the season. A popular itinerary is Viking’s Classic Panama Canal Passage, which sails from Fort Lauderdale through the canal and visits Mexico, Belize, Costa Rica, Honduras and Panama.

A pair of Star Clippers ships

If you’ve done the Panama Canal cruise, consider a Suez Canal sailing, which explores the Greek Islands before crossing the canal to visit ports in Egypt. Guests can take an excursion to visit the Pyramids, which is a highlight of this itinerary. Star Clippers takes its majestic sailing ships with tall white masts on these trips. If you want a true sailing experience, Star Clippers is a great option.

An aerial view of the fishing boats in Zanzibar

Taking a cruise to ports along Africa’s coastline is a great way to visit multiple places without worrying about getting difficult visas for each country or finding a comfortable place to say. There are many different itineraries including around the southern tip to ports of South Africa, Namibia and Mozambique. Others visit remote islands like Madagascar, Mauritius, Zanzibar and the Seychelles.

Azamara Quest visits the west coast of Africa.

The best time to visit is in the spring and fall as this means temperatures are not as hot as summer and also when cruise lines make these itineraries as they move ships to different regions. One of the most exciting (and quick to sell out) sailings is along parts of the west coast of the continent visiting places like the Bissagos Island chain, Sao Tome and Principe, Benin, Senegal and Gambia. Many travelers like to tack on a safari before or after their sailing.

Azamara Quest and Norwegian Sky are two of the most popular cruise ships that make these sailings. Azamara is known for its itineraries that remain in ports until late in the evening or even overnight giving travelers more time in each destination. For the 2025-2026 cruise season, Oceania Cruises will add new overnight stays in Mauritius, too.

Holland America’s Nieuw Statendam

Spotting the Northern Lights or sailing through panoramic fjords is often best experienced by ship. Holland America’s Nieuw Statendam sails through the Nordic countries during the summer months, the best time to visit the region since temperatures are not as cold. The newly launched Queen Anne from Cunard, which takes its first sailing in May, will sail around the British Islands and make its way to Norway to explore the fjords.

Hurtigruten Expeditions, a Norwegian company, operates its own series of sailings all along the coastline. The cruise line got its start here operating ferry ships bringing mail, supplies and other goods to remote parts of the country. Many of them also carry passengers that want to experience a smaller ship that visits different towns while also sailing through the fjords.

A Viking cruise ship sailing through the Norwegian fjords.

Another Nordic brand famous for its river and cruise ships is Viking, which operates its luxury ships carrying just under 1,000 passengers on signature itineraries like “Viking Homeland.” Viking Vela is one of the ships to make this journey, and Viking sailings are all-inclusive with drinks, all meals at specialty restaurants and excursions making it a great way to visit this region.

8. The Galapagos Islands

Galapagos sea lions (Zalophus wollebaeki) are sunbathing in the last sunlight at the beach of ... [+] Espanola island, Galapagos Islands in the Pacific Ocean. This species of sea lion is endemic at the Galapagos islands; In the background one of the typical tourist yachts is visible. Wildlife shot.

Sailing between these Ecuadorian islands is beautiful for the bird watching and animal spotting from the region’s famous tortoises, iguanas and penguins. Cruise ships in this region are limited in size by regulations to preserve the marine environment. Hurtigruten Santa Cruz II is one of the larger ships that operates several itineraries in the archipelago.

Celebrity Flora is based in the Galapagos Islands.

Among the most luxurious ships sailing the islands is Celebrity Flora, a purpose-built ship for the Galapagos with cabanas on its top deck, a marine biology exploration center and beautiful cabins with electronically controlled windows that allow cabins to feel larger.

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Bucket list travel on a budget: Expert tips for airfare, loyalty programs, credit card perks and more

Many travelers have their sights set on summer getaways , but with everything from baggage fees to fuel costs impacting the price of a ticket, "Good Morning America" is asking travel experts to share tips for booking bucket list destinations on a budget and finding savings along the way.

Travel expert Nicky Kelvin, senior director of content for The Points Guy, offered his tips for affordable travel techniques.

Where to find the best flight deals

Kelvin encourages travelers to utilize Google Flights and other free price-tracking tools to compare fare prices and snag the best deal.

He also suggests using both the calendar and map features within Google Flights to see which airports, dates and destinations how the lowest fare.

From the Google Flights homepage on a computer, click "explore destinations" and select a departure city without adding a destination. Then zoom out on the map to see the best prices for destinations all over the world.

Get the most out of free travel loyalty programs

Travelers should be earning points for anything and everything that they are buying or booking from airline and hotels to car rentals, Kelvin said.

In addition to the points that can can help travelers earn free flights and hotel stays, Kelvin said to look for extra perks just for joining.

Hyatt rewards, for example, offers all guests free breakfast.

For Thrifty Car Rental and Dollar Car Rental, he said you can add your spouse or domestic partner as an additional driver for free.

Loyalty programs are great for airlines too. JetBlue, for example, allows enrolled customers -- even if they don't have enough points for a flight -- to use points for discounts. Plus, with any airline, as you accumulate points to earn status, you can get free seating upgrades.

Travel credit cards with cash back perks

Along with earning points, travel credit cards give you protection for your trip like insurance to help with lost or damaged baggage and trip cancellation protection

Chase debuts new airport lounge: Gourmet menus, sleek interiors, free facials redefine hospitality for airport travel

As for credit cards, The Points Guy team suggests the Capital One Venture Rewards credit card as an all-around pick -- you get 75,000 miles after meeting your minimum spend in the first three months. Which Kelvin said is a value of over $1,300.

If you're looking to earn the most miles, he said look to the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card.

"You'll earn the most points on all your purchases with this one," he said.

Finally, if you want a credit card with no fee, Kelvin suggested the Bilt Mastercard, which he said is particularly great for renters because you can earn points on what's likely someone's biggest expense.

Editor’s Picks

Airlines required to refund passengers for canceled, delayed flights

• Apr 24, 2024

Google reveals top destinations for summer vacation 2024

• Apr 09, 2024

What to know about new Venice entry fee, other summer destinations with a tourist tax

• Apr 25, 2024

Save money on international phone plans for summer trips

If someone's trip is taking them out of the country, using a cell phone internationally can cost $10 to 15 per day. For a family of four, that's more than $400 for a week.

If your phones support eSIM, Kelvin suggested purchasing a data plan for your destination through an app such as Airalo, Truphone or GigSky.

For example, one of Airalo's global SIM plans costs $9 for one week, which could save a family close to $350 dollars, depending on their existing international coverage.

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