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This magical nook in the Philippines, Bicol, boasts of a unique lifestyle for locals. The widespread tourism and other resources abound in healthy nature, its rich culture, and adventure. There are a multitude of things to do in Bicol Philippines. The tourist not only takes in these views, but joins in the vibrancy of festivals, eats the delights of local cuisine, and learns the language of warm, hospitable groups.
Top 10 Things To Do In Bicol Philippines
Bicol offers a diverse range of experiences and here are ten of the best things to do in Bicol Philippines:
1. Admire Mayon Volcano In Legazpi
Photo: Chrizluminario / Wikimedia Commons
The finest natural landmark globally in the Bicol Region is the almost-perfectly-shaped Mayon Volcano. Its active stratovolcano rises 2,462 meters above sea level in Legazpi City, Albay. The historic remains of the Cagsawa Ruins. It stands in gorgeous contrast to the remains of the church destroyed during an eruption in 1814. Around Mayon, the tourist can engage in adventure activities like hiking, ATV riding, and taking pictures. Due to the seismic activity of Mayon, it is being monitored closely by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).
Best Time To Visit: March to May for clearer skies
Ideal For: Adventure seekers, nature lovers, photographers
2. Swim With Whale Sharks In Donsol
Photo: AwOiSoAk KaOsIoWa / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Donsol, found in the province of Sorsogon, has gained fame as a global destination for proper whale shark interactions. These coastal waters are almost completely occupied by poor whale sharks (also butanding in local parlance). In Donsol, however, feeding the animals is prohibited, thus preserving the natural and sustainable nature of the experience. Local fishermen turned guides, called Butanding Interaction Officers (BIOs), are hired to take tourists out to the whale sharks aboard small boats called bangkas. The Department of Tourism collaborated with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) for the protection of this ecotourism destination.
Best Time To Visit: November to June (peak whale shark season)
Ideal For: Marine life enthusiasts, eco-tourists, families
3. Explore Bulusan Volcano Natural Park In Sorsogon
Photo: Jamesbourne1986 / Wikimedia Commons
The Bulusan Volcano Natural Park resides primarily in the cities of Irosin and Bulusan, Sorsogon. This is a place set aside and reserved from any form of disturbance within the active Bulusan Volcano. The entire park stretches over 3,600 hectares of rainforests and other natural attractions. One of the major features of the park is Bulusan Lake, a quiet, beautiful crater lake packed full by thick foliage, making it possibly ideal for kayaking and nature walks. The entire area is a rich biodiversity site teeming with native flora and fauna, including hornbills, flying lizards, and pitcher plants.
Best Time To Visit: December to May (dry season)
Ideal For: Hikers, nature lovers, birdwatchers
4. Relax On The Beaches Of Caramoan Peninsula
Photo: JannahTepace / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Caramoan Peninsula at the eastern end of Camarines Sur is known for its pristine beaches, rugged limestone cliffs, and isolated islands. The name that often goes along with it is “the secret paradise of the Philippines.” Aside from island hopping, admission to some of the beautiful sites like Matukad Island, Lahos and Hunongan Islands can be associated with soft white sand and crystal clear waters. Activities include snorkelling, cliff diving, and caving. Access has been made easier by the presence of daily vans and boats from Naga or Sabang Port.
Best Time To Visit: March to June for beach-friendly weather
Ideal For: Island hoppers, beach bums, couples
5. Ride The Waves At Bagasbas Beach In Daet
Photo: FroyAgta / Wikimedia Commons
Bagasbas Beach is a long stretch of grayish sand located in Daet, capital of Camarines Norte. Due to its consistently strong winds and waves, the beach also finds itself among the most-patterned destinations for surfers and kitesurfers. Facing the Pacific Ocean, swells come in year-round and prevail in the Amihan wind season from October to March. The Bagasbas Boulevard runs parallel to the shore with food stalls and local eateries that highly serve fresh seafood and Filipino snacks. Jogging, beach volleyball, and sunset-viewing are also other activities that keep people interested in the beach.
Best Time To Visit: October to March (Amihan wind season)
Ideal For: Surfers, water sports lovers, backpackers
6. Visit The Peñafrancia Basilica In Naga City
Photo: Jurryboncodin / Wikimedia Commons
The Peñafrancia Basilica Minore is located in Naga City. This basilica serves as the religious heart of Bicol because it has the image of Our Lady of Peñafrancia. Built in the 1980s, it stands as a very modern architectural structure. It boasts of its towering dome and stained-glass windows. It serves as the venue for the annual Peñafrancia Festival, held every September, which usually congregates millions of pilgrims. It symbolises a cultural region’s deeply entrenched faith in Catholicism.
Best Time To Visit: September (during Peñafrancia Festival)
Ideal For: Pilgrims, history buffs, culture seekers
7. Marvel At The Hoyop-Hoyopan Cave In Camalig
Photo: Christopher Punzalan / Wikimedia Commons
Hoyop-Hoyopan Cave, found in Camalig, Albay, is a beautiful natural sight with a very respectable historical and geological significance. It has many chambers with unique stalactite and stalagmite formations. It is with nature’s own pattern on the rocks, human figures, animals, sidhas, and religious icons. Archaeological evidence such as ancient burial jars and fossils reveal that the cave was once used as a prehistoric shelter. During World War II, it served as an escape route for some locals in hiding from the Japanese soldiers. Due to basic lighting and pathways, it is easy to access for the occasional tourists.
Best Time To Visit: November to May (less rainfall)
Ideal For: Adventure seekers, history lovers, casual explorers
8. Island – Hop In Calaguas Islands
Photo: Marife.altabano / Wikimedia Commons
Pristine islands in Vinzons, Camarines Norte, are the Calaguas Islands. The biggest island destination includes Mahabang Buhangin, which is on Tinaga Island. It is famed for its very long stretch of powdery white sand powder and turquoise waters. Unlike any other beach that is touristy, Calaguas is somewhat raw and quiet. Most visitors camp along the beach or stay at modest eco-friendly resorts, swimming, snorkelling, beach volleyball, and bonfire nights with stars overhead.
Best Time To Visit: March to May for calm seas and clear skies
Ideal For: Beach lovers, campers, off-grid travellers
9. Try Wakeboarding At Camsur Watersports Complex In Pili
Photo: RioHondo / Wikimedia Commons
The Camsur Watersports Complex, or CWC, is among Asia’s prime wakeboarding spots located inside the Provincial Capitol Complex in Pili. Having opened in 2006, it boasts state-of-the-art cable parks for the novice and professional. This facility has a 6-point cable system with differing ramps and rails to accommodate freestyle tricks and competitions. These CWC international wakeboarding events include the Asian Wake Park Championships. Other than wakeboarding, the complex offers activities such as kneeboarding and jet skiing. With Mount Isarog in the background, the view complements the entire activity.
Best Time To Visit: Year-round (especially during dry season)
Ideal For: Thrill-seekers, groups, sports lovers
10. Taste Bicolano Cuisine Across The Region
Photo: EMCCERNITCHEZ / Wikimedia Commons
Strong flavours characterise Bicolano food, especially coconut milk (gata) and chili peppers. Signature foods include Bicol Express, a spicy pork dish cooked in coconut milk with green chillies, and Laing, dried taro leaves cooked lovingly in a rich creamy coconut sauce. Kinunot, a dish made with flaked fish or stingray and malunggay leaves soaked in coconut milk, is popular among locals. Street foods like kinalas and pili nut delicacies are found everywhere. There are food tours in cities like Legazpi and Naga to have that tasting experience while visiting local markets and cooking demos.
Best Time To Visit: Year-round (food tours operate daily)
Ideal For: Foodies, cultural explorers, culinary tourists
Bicol presents a sizzling blend of tempers, excitements, culture, and nature that bewilders every type of traveller. The same holds true whether you wish for some quiet moments with nature, breathless shoestring experiences. Things you do in Bicol Philippines include onboarding a rich culinary trip along with other experiences worth remembering. What adds to the special place of Bicol is its genuineness and warmth. Plan your seamless, personal getaway via TripXL, your trustful partner in curated travel experience, exclusive offers, and expert guidance.
