EXCITING ADVENTURES | PHILIPPINES
I love adventures, and through the years, I have a few which landed Top on my List.
1. Canyoneering in Alegria – Badian, Cebu
Topping my list on my most unforgettable outdoor adventures was my Alegria-Badian Canyoneering adventure in the Island of Cebu, Philippines. And how can I forget to have a jelly foot when jumping from the cliff to enter the canyon? I guess one should at experience this activity at least once in their lifetime.
Please see my related post about Canyoneering in Badian: Canyoneering in Alegria-Badian, Cebu
How to Get There:
Badian is a 3 – 4 hours travel from the City of Cebu, and one can take a bus ride at the Cebu South Bus Terminal. There is an alternative aside from taking buses at Cebu South Bus Terminal, and that is to ride a bus from Librando Terminal. Either of these three will bring you to the town of Badian.
2. White Water Rafting in Davao
Second on my most unforgettable outdoor adventure was the Davao White Water Rafting. I almost got drowned in the river in Davao when our life raft capsized, and I was trapped inside. Such experience gave me so much realization.
Getting there: Please read my post with Davao White Water Rafting
Dahilayan Adventure Park
3. Dahilayan Adventure Park
The first time I did the zip line was in Dahilayan, Bukidnon. Dahilayan’s zip line used to be the longest in Asia at 840 meters with a drop of 100 meters —-one of the highest of all the zip lines that I tried.
Please Read my article about Dahilayan Adventure Park.
How to get there:
Dahilayan Adventure Park is located at Brgy. Dahilayan, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon, Philippines
From Cagayan de Oro, take the Davao –Bukidnon Highway, right on the Jalae Junction. Proceed 25 km to Brgy Dahilayan past Camp Philips and the pineapple fields via Mampayag. My suggestion for those traveling as a group of 3-4 pax, to rent a taxi from Php 1,500 to Php 2,500 depending on the number of hours.
4. El Nido, Palawan
Beautiful beaches… one of the best amongst the beaches I visited so far.
That was February when we went to El Nido, and while there was no typhoon, I think the weather was quite angry. We visited the hidden beach, wherein we must pass through a hole from the wall of the cliff to get in. The current was fierce and for us to enter, we must do a perfect timing otherwise, the waves will smash you to the ceiling of the hole.
Our boat parked at around 30 feet from the opening and we must swim to reach the small entrance. Trusting our guide, we jumped from the motorized boat and swam towards the hole. We never realized that the current was powerful. I know how to swim, but no effort can make me reach the entrance. The worst part, the current was bringing me to the sharp rocks, and I was so scared that I will be smashed me into the scary edges of the stones.
Horrified as I was, I was able to call our guide who were good swimmers to throw me a life tube and help me go back to the boat. Upon reaching the boat, I scolded our guide for being so careless. You should see the faces of others when we got back to the boat.
Well don’t be scared, I guess that was a remote experience. Just be cautious each time you leave the boat should you wish to visit the place in the future. Mind you; I am planning to get back to El Nido, soon.
Please read some of my articles about El Nido, Palawan:
- Your Ultimate Travel Guide to El Nido, Palawan
- Sample Itinerary and Budget to El Nido, Palawan
- El Nido Tour “A,” Lagoons and Beaches
- List of Hotels and Resorts in El Nido, Palawan
- 33 Things to do When in El Nido, Palawan
- What to Bring when visiting El Nido, Palawan
5. Sand Dunes in Laoag, Ilocos
For some reasons, my trip to Ilocos Region is one of my most treasured trips.
One thing which made it one of my most unforgettable were the activities we did during the trip especially the Paoay Sand Dunes Adventure. I believe that anyone visiting the place must take the 4X4 and experience the thrill while navigating the entire Sand Dunes.
Getting There: Please read the Ilocos Norte Travel Guide
Please read the related article about Ilocos Norte:
Cagayan White Water Rafting
6. Cagayan de Oro White Water Rafting
My first whitewater rafting adventure was in Cagayan de Oro, and I should say, my “first” was memorable.
Read my post about my experience at Cagayan de Oro White Water Rafting
How to Get There:
Cagayan de Oro can be reached by plane from various major airports in the Philippines. While in Cagayan, you can ask your hotel how to engage in the White Water Rafting. Almost all hotels and Inns in Cagayan has information or connection with any adventure companies doing the white water rafting.
7. Spelunking at Candoni, Negros Occidental
I was not prepared to go spelunking when we visited Candoni, Negros Occidental. But such experience gave me that desire to go on a similar adventure when there is an opportunity in the future.
Read my Spelunking Adventure at Candoni, Negros Occidental
How to Get There
Candoni is approximately a three-and-a-half hour drive from Bacolod City aboard a public utility vehicle and about two hours and 45 minutes in a private car. From Bacolod City, buses are available at Bacolod South Terminal. From Kabankalan City, one can take the public utility jeepneys going to this town.
From Bacolod City, buses are available at Bacolod South Terminal. From Kabankalan City, one can take the public utility jeepneys or buses going to this town. When in Candoni, it’s easy to get around, directly ask the people around.
8. Biri Rock Formation
That was my first time in Samar when I visited this remarkable place, the Biri Rock Formation. The majestic rock formation naturally inspired me to see more beautiful areas in the country that need to be explored. I will be visiting this place again.
Please read my post about Biri Rock Formation
How to Get There:
By Plane: Flights from Manila will take you to either Catarman, which is the closest to Biri Island or to Calbayog, which is on the western side of Samar to the south of Biri Island.
Once you have arrived at either airport, you need to get yourself to the town of Lavezares, which is the jump off the port, to get you to Biri Island. There are numerous jeepneys and tricycles all ore than happy to take you to Lavezares, negotiate the fare before you leave.
To Biri Island
Once you have arrived in Lavezares, go straight to the town market, once there look to the right side of the market along the beach, and you will see some Banca boats, choose one with Biri Island written on the back, these will usually be returning to Biri Island on that day. If you are traveling as a group, it would be best to rent the while Banca.
9. Giant Slide at Maxima Aqua Fun
Maxima Aqua Fun is the place for adventurous people. Maxima doesn’t have sandy beaches. Instead, it’s on a cliff’s edge, smoothed down by steps, that extends towards the water. Maxima Resort is also known for its Eagle View Canopy Walk and Giant Water Slide.
We’ve tried their 4o meters giant slide. A “scream all you can”treat for the adventurous buddies. Don’t worry; they have lifeguards waiting for you in the water at the end of the slide. The moment I got into the water which is said to be at least 100 meters deep in a super flash of 6 seconds I was reminded of the feeling when we almost got drowned from our last year’s whitewater rafting adventure (also in Davao). But the experience was terrific.
Click here for my Maxima Aqua Fun Adventure
How to get There
Maxima Aqua Fun is located on Samal Island, Davao. Please click here for the Travel Guide when Visiting Samal Island
10. Swimming with the Whale Shark of Oslob, Cebu
That was my first encounter with the gentle giants when we first visited Oslob, Cebu. Anything beautiful “first experience” usually becomes unforgettable to me.
11. Campuestohan Mountain Resort
Campuestohan is one of the most popular destinations in Negros Occidental. A place is also a favorite place for our family to visit if we plan plan bring kids. Apart from family getaways, I have also conducted several training projects undertaken at the site.
Click here to read our story at Campuestohan Highland Resort
How to get there:
The place can be accessed by private vehicles.
For those who don’t have the car, you may reach the place via a SHUTTLE SERVICE (30-Seater Air-conditioned Sarao). Below are the rates and schedule:
Weekend Service – P 100.00 / Person. Loading Area: Villa Angela arcade parking lot (fronting Lopue’s East Center)
- Departure Time from Bacolod 9:00 AM
- Departure Time from resort 4:00 PM
- Private Group Charter P 3,000.0 ( 2-way transport service. Pick-up and drop-off point within Bacolod City. Reservations must be made at least three days ahead if resort visit will fall on a weekend, and at least one day before if coming on a weekday. )
Cambugahay Falls, Siquijor Island
12. Siquijor Island
My solo trip to Siquijor Island is also one of my most unforgettable adventures. Out of frustrations brought about by many cancellations of planned trips due to the availability of schedules of my friends and some personal issues, I decided to pack and went to Siquijor on Christmas Eve of 2015. That solo backpacking allowed for some personal reflections and emotional healing of course.
Please read my articles about Siquijor Island:
- Siquijor Island Travel Guide
- Cambugahay Falls
- San Isidro Labrador Church and Convent
- Things to do in Siquijor Island
- List of Hotels and Beaches in Siquijor
Getting There:
Siquijor is located in the Central Visayas between Cebu, Negros, Bohol and Mindanao, Philippines. Its capital is the municipality also named Siquijor and for now, is the third smallest province in the country.
To get the Island the most common and used option is the ferry. There are connections from Cebu City (Cebu island), Dumaguete (Negros Island) or Tagbilaran (Bohol island) among others cities.
Jet skiing at Lakawon Island Resort
13.Lakawon Island Resort
I have so many beautiful memories at Lakawon Island Resort which made the place top on my list.
Please click here for my story about Lakawon Island Resort
Getting there :
The Island can be reached through Barangay Cadiz Viejo. A motorboat takes visitors to the island. The ride is about 30 minutes.
From Bacolod City, travel by private car will take just over an hour. There are also buses plying the Northern Negros which stops at Cadiz Viejo.
14. Pagudpud and Zipline at the Blue Lagoon
I would like to add zip lining at the Blue Lagoon in Pagudpud in this list. Honestly, It was not the zip line that excites me most because the launching point was not that high that it does not give one thrilling experience. However, it’s my over
Please read my experience Ziplining at the Blue Lagoon in Pagudpud
I’ve never heard of any of these places. They all sound amazing.
Woah!!! This post is frickkin EPIC! You live an insanely amazing life.
So wicked that you got to check out the whale sharks, I’ve always wanted to see them.
Shared on twitter
These are all such amazing adventures! I think the rafting is my favorite 🙂
White water rafting is on the top of my list. I love it. I would go every summer if my schedule allowed.
It is a full of adventure list! Would love to join you
All these adventures sound so fun. I love anything with water.
I would LOVE to go to Dahilayan Park as it close to my home town Cagayan de Oro City. Your photos makes me missed the Philippines so badly 🙁
So nice to see some places in the Philippines for adventure trips! Your pictures showcases sheer fun and excitement! I’m sure adrenaline junkies would love and enjoy such places.
El Nido looks breathtakingly beautiful and I do have a penchant for exploring sand dunes!
It has been a lot of fun going on this adventure with you. But now you are just bragging LOL
Amazing and inspiring list! I hope I can have a bucket list like that one day!
What amazing adventures! I’m adding to my bucket list.
Super fun ideas. I need to come hang out with you!
Nothing beats El Nido and Zambales! You’ve certainly made an impressive list to attract readers from all over the world. Good job!
That canyoneering blog post was one of my favorites, so glad it’s on the top of your list. I enjoyed reading about your Siquijor trip as well. You’ve been to so many adventures! It’s so awesome.
You have here a real nice list of to dos and they are all exciting and fun to do especially with friends. Been to a number of adventures youve listed, and havent been to Ilocos for the sand dunes and the Lakawon and Siquijor, Wanting to experience them someday,
I haven’t heard of any of these places before but now I want to go to all of them. They all look so exciting and fun. Just an adventure waiting to happen.
You are super adventurous. looks like lots of fun!
All of those places look great! I’d love to take my family on an adventure. We don’t get to go out much, so that would be really nice to be able to do.
Most of my friends have been in to these places and their latest was canyoneering at Cebu. Not a fan of water adventures tho but zipline and sky diving is what I really look forward in trying 🙂
WOW! What fun and amazing adventures you went on! I think I would have panicked being next to that shark though!
You are so adventurous! Enjoy reading your post and all the photos are simply breathtaking, especially those with canyoneering, rafting and sand dunes!
Sign me up for all of these adventures as well!!!! Every last one of these sounds like a total blast!
I’m a big fan of zip lining, so that kind of thing would be my pick. But the sand dunes sounds pretty amazing as well!
i love your site. everything is so adventures. you have captured some great pics and creative so awesome memories. that’s amazing.
So far the only thing I have done on this list is zipl-lining and it was absolutely awesome!! That said, I would love to check a few of these of my personal list as well! The spelunking and white water rafting are at the top of my list!!