Philippines: Natural Attractions beyond Beaches

Situated in the Far Eastern part of Asia, the Philippines is an archipelago of about 7,000 islands inhabited by some of the friendliest and the most hospitable people. Various indigenous tribes reside in the rural areas. From historic sites and exciting activities to beautiful beaches and wonderful natural attractions, the Philippines offers you experiences that you would cherish for a long time. Have a look at three top natural attractions in the Philippines apart from the beaches.

Banaue Rice Terraces

A holiday in the Philippines cannot be complete without visiting the stunning Rice Terraces of Banaue. Cut out from the mountains 2,000 years ago by the Ifugao tribes, at a time when modern tools weren’t available, these spectacular terraces look like stairs going up to the sky. The most amazing part is that the locals use these terraces for growing vegetables and rice. It is a great place to explore the culture and history of the Philippines and spend a fun day out with your family.

Mayon Volcano

Mayon Volcano, standing at a height of about 2,400 metres above sea level, is a popular destination for tourists, adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. One of the most significant characteristics of the volcano is its perfect conical shape which fascinates almost everyone who visits the place. If you love nature and adventure, you can indulge in a number of activities such as photography, bird watching, hiking, climbing, and camping. The Mayon Volcano is also famous for being the most active volcano in the Philippines in the past. It has erupted as many as 49 times in the last four centuries.

Chocolate Hills

The Chocolate Hills are among the most visited tourist places in the Philippines because of their fascinating geological structures and historical significance. These formations consist of about 1,268 mounds scattered across meadows. Almost all of the hills are alike and have a height of around 30 to 50 metres. During the dry season, the dry leaves turn from green to brown, which looks like a giant piece of chocolate, hence the name, Chocolate Hills.