Known for its picturesque destinations and vast variety of resorts and water-sports, the Philippines consists of 7,107 islands. Many destinations are still relatively unknown to tourists. The economy of the archipelago is largely dependent on tourism and people from all over the world visit the Philippines as their holiday destination. The tourism of the islands peaks during the months of December and January, when people escaping the winter bite visit the sunny beaches and islands of the tropical Philippines. Here are some places which are worth a visit in your next trip there.

1. UNESCO World Heritage site, North Luzon

North Luzon is the biggest island of the Philippines archipelago, known mostly for its mountains. The vegetation here is mostly pine trees. This area has many tribal groups which live in isolation, growing rice and grain along the mountainsides which are terrace farmed. This status quo has been maintained for about 2000 years. Visitors participate in treks along the terraces to different waterfalls as well as enjoy the vibrant culture of a variety of tribal villages. It is also possible for visitors to find accommodation in the local guesthouses situated along the hills. This area can be reached by a 9 hour bus journey from Manila. the terraces to different waterfalls as well as enjoy the vibrant culture of a variety of tribal villages. It is also possible for visitors to find accommodation in the local guesthouses situated along the hills. This area can be reached by a 9 hour bus journey from Manila.

2. Chocolate Hills, Bohol

The interesting thing about these hills is that they are formed by coral deposits, accumulated into mounds due to millennia of erosion. The hills appear green or brown depending on the season. The island also happens to be the home to the world’s smallest monkey, Tarsier. Known to be shy creatures, it is difficult to spot one easily in the wild, let alone click pictures of it. But, tourists can see the Tarsier in protected enclosures at the Philippines Tarsier Foundation. Another destination which may appeal to some is the Bohol Bee Farm, which has organic vegetable farming as well as bee farming. The farm also has rooms for visitors to stay at. You can use promo codes for Agoda from Savingmart.ph.

3. Cambugahay Falls, Siquijor

Siquijor is as close as you can get to a fairytale island. With greenery covered mountains and beautiful waterfalls and lakes for diving and snorkelling. This magical land is feared and revered by the local people, due to the practices of witchcraft in the area. But fear not, because these practices are for the good. The mountains have witch doctors and faith healers living among the vegetation. These healers welcome paying visitors, but it is important to be polite and respectful of their arts, even if you’re a non-believer. These are age old traditions of the area and all the locals believe in this. It is possible for visitors to find accommodations at beach bungalows. Apart from all the activities, this picturesque island is great if you just want to relax and laze around, drinking in the natural beauty around.

4. Apo Reef, Mindoro

Said to be one of the best scuba diving spots around the Philippines, Apo Reef, which is situated 2 km off the west coast of Mindoro, is sure to be a great treat for diving enthusiasts. The reef, being mostly underwater, is famous for housing a large variety of sea creatures such as sea turtles, ray fish and sharks, not to mention the many different kinds of smaller fish which are available in abundance close to the reefs. The Apo Reef Club offers good diving packages to visitors and is also one of the closest diving operators to Apo Reef. It is also possible for visitors to find accommodation at the club.

5. Davao, Mindanao

The biggest city on Mindanao Island, Davao, has a sparse tourist population due to previous insurgencies. Now, Davao has been ranked as one of the best places to live in the Philippines and is regarded as a safe haven. Mindanao Island is known for having the country’s tallest peak, which is the semi-active volcano Mount Apo. Visitors can trek up the mountainside, through the tropical flora and fauna of the island, to pine trees and sulphuric vents of the volcano. The world’s smelliest fruit, the Durian, originates from this island. The island has hostels and small hotels, along with tour packages for visitors.