If you’re in for an ultimate travel adventure, then why not go backpacking in the Philippines. With 7,107 islands, you will never run of destinations to choose from in this Southeast Asian nation. Imagine hopping from one island to another while enjoying various attractions and sceneries across the archipelago. That’s a peak of what to do in this archipelago.

Though often left out by international tourists due to security issues, the Philippines is considered a backpacker’s paradise. The country is home to distinctive events and festivals, breathtaking natural and man-made attractions, luxurious and affordable hotels and resorts, and hospitable people.

Getting around the Philippines is not as tricky as some people might think. With improved infrastructure and public transport system, backpacking in this tropical country has been made easy. Equipped yourself with comfortable clothes, a sturdy pair of shoes, a video camera, and spare cash and you’re ready for a backpacking adventure in the Philippines. A travel guide and a map will also come handy.

Here are some of the recommended backpacking destinations in the country. Let’s exclude Palawan, Boracay, and Manila from the list as they have been featured many times in related articles.

Laguna
Because of its immediate proximity to Metro Manila, Laguna is among the ideal backpacking getaways in the Philippines. There are lots of things to do in this southern province including hiking the majestic Mt. Makiling, shooting the rapids in Pagsanjan, swimming at resorts in Pansol, and shopping for slippers in Liliw. Other points of interest in Laguna are the Underground Cemetery in Nagcarlan, the Rizal Shrine in Calamba, and the Makiling Botanical Garden in Los Baños. The best shopping sites for souvenirs can be found in the towns of Liliw, Pakil, and Lumban.

Batangas
Another popular backpacking destination near Metro Manila is Batangas. This province is known for its pristine beaches and top-notch resorts that are more affordable than those in Boracay. A must-see attraction in Batangas is the Taal Lake and Volcano, where regular tours are available for tourists. Batangas is also a perfect place for pilgrimage tourism. It is home to some of the country’s oldest churches such as the Basilica of San Martin de Tours and the Church of San Juan. Never leave Batangas without tasting its famous goto (congee) and lechon (roasted pig).

Sagada
The municipality of Sagada in Mountain Province is a backpacker’s delight. Known for its relaxing rural setting, Sagada is frequented by backpackers looking for something different to explore. The most notable attraction in the town is the Hanging Coffins of Sagada, a sacred burial site for indigenous people. Other recommended sites to visit in Sagada include the Bokong Falls, Echo Valley, Sumaguing and Lumiang Caves, and Lake Danum. Don’t forget to taste various coffee varieties in town.

Aside from the above-mentioned destinations, other premier backpacking sites in the Philippines include Davao, Cebu, Baguio, Pampanga, and Iloilo. To avoid travel inconveniences, learn about your target destinations in advance.

Local Philippines is your travel buddy. We have information about the destinations, how to get there, what to do while in the area and more! Destinations in the beaches or in the mountains, destinations under water, destinations right at the middle of the urban hub, name it and Local Philippines will most likely feature it.

Allan Leandro Merin has been writing for a living since 2008. After leaving a career at a daily electronic crew newspaper, he joined a web development outsourcing company and linked up with Local Philippines, the most comprehensive online directory of Philippine destinations, events, and attractions http://www.localphilippines.com/.