Philippines
Many captivating locations are within a day’s reach from Bicol’s main cities.
From Legazpi City: Donsol, Sorsogon (1.5-2 hrs) for whale shark interaction (seasonal) or firefly watching. Tiwi, Albay (1 hr) for natural hot springs. Camalig, Albay (30-45 mins) for Hoyop-Hoyopan Cave and Quitinday Green Hills. Daraga, Albay (15-20 mins) for Cagsawa Ruins and Daraga Church. From Naga City: Pili, Camarines Sur (20-30 mins) for Camarines Sur Wakeboard Complex (CWC). Caramoan Islands (5-6 hrs one way) for island hopping; an overnight or multi-day stay is highly recommended.
How to plan your excursions effectively.
This option offers convenience, especially for destinations like Donsol or Caramoan.
This approach provides flexibility and can be more budget-friendly.
Discover serene and adventurous natural sites around Bicol.
Bicol is home to protected areas like Mayon Volcano Natural Park and Bulusan Volcano Natural Park, offering trekking and boating on Lake Bulusan.
Quitinday Green Hills Formation in Camalig, Albay, offers unique rolling hills. Mayon Skyline provides an alternative viewpoint for Mayon Volcano.
Subic Beach in Matnog, Sorsogon, offers a pinkish-white sand beach for relaxation. Explore rugged coastal scenery in Catanduanes.
Areas for trekking and nature walks.
Coastal towns and island exploration.
Explore Bicol's history and heritage beyond its main cities.
Sites of historical significance located near main cities.
Discover Bicol's significant structures that tell stories of the past.
Explore local villages around Ligao or Camalig. Witness rural Bicolano life.
The Peñafrancia Basilica Minore in Naga City is a major pilgrimage destination.
Discover and support local crafts. This helps preserve cultural heritage and supports local livelihoods.
Find intricately woven abaca products.
Observe traditional pottery making.
Taste and buy Bicol's famous nut confectioneries.
Consider adding more days to explore Bicol and neighboring regions in depth.
Add 2-3 days for surfing at Puraran Beach, visiting Maribina Falls, and experiencing the "Happy Island" vibe. Access by ferry from Tabaco, Albay, or flight.
Add 2-3 days for its cattle ranches, the Rodeo Masbateño Festival (if timing works), and diving spots like Ticao Island for manta rays. Access by flight or ferry.
Spend 2-3 nights in Caramoan to thoroughly explore its numerous islands and hidden coves without rushing.
Start from Manila and travel by bus through Camarines Norte (Daet) and Camarines Sur (Naga, Caramoan).
Continue through Albay (Legazpi) and Sorsogon (Donsol, Matnog for ferry to Visayas).
The journey can also be done in reverse, starting from Visayas and heading north.
