The 10 Best Ecotourism Experiences in Visayas, Philippines

Located on the island of Negros in the Visayas region, you’ll find lush vegetation and dense rainforests in Mount Canlaon Natural Park. This natural haven lures mountain climbers with its proud centerpiece: Mount Canlaon (also spelled Kanla-on or Kanlaon), which is one of the country’s most active stratovolcanoes. While climbing to the top is a challenging experience, the view is more than worth it – standing as the highest point on the island. The park is also home to numerous wildlife creatures such as the hawk eagle, wild boars, and leopard cats.

While its name means ‘Bad Christmas’, the tiny island of Malapascua will bring no humbugs to your holiday cheer. Unspoiled white-sand beaches, beautiful coral gardens, and beaming marine life sanctuary have earned Malapascua the title of one of the best diving spots in the Philippines. Take the chance to spot thresher sharks, enjoy unlimited scenic views, and immerse yourself in a laid-back, relaxing atmosphere.

If you’re seeking the fresh ocean breeze, a laid-back atmosphere and stunning scenery, then Lake Danao Natural Park belongs on your itinerary. This guitar-shaped lake is located on the island of Leyte in the Visayas region. Just like Taal Volcano near Manila, this picture-perfect scene was formed after a volcanic eruption. Because of its high elevation (similar to that of Tagaytay’s), you can expect a cool climate and a relaxing spot to breathe in some fresh air. For extra ecotourism adventures, you may opt to enjoy boating in wooden canoes, fishing, or camping.

Nestled in the western part of Leyte, you’ll find a group of islands bordered by white-sand shores and beaming coral gardens – the Cuatro Islas. The group of islands, which literally means ‘Four Islands’, showcases a rich and diverse underwater paradise in the province of Leyte. These are the islands of Apid, Digyo, Himokilan and Mahaba, which all have a specialty of their own. Through proper maintenance of its ecosystem, Cuatro Islas is on way to becoming a top recreational diving destination, giving tourists the chance to interact with their diverse marine sanctuary.

Apart from the world-famous Chocolate Hills, this butterfly breeding and conservation center in Bohol is something you don’t want to miss. Simply Butterflies Conservation Center is the first of its kind, aiming to protect the butterfly population through breeding, releasing, and research. Here, you’ll be able to observe hundreds of species of butterfly – either handbred or local insects which were attracted to this place out of curiosity. Sit on a hammock under the shade and watch in awe as these delicate creatures flutter by. You can also purchase butterfly by-products and other souvenirs to help preserve the center.

Head underground and interact with our banana-loving animal relatives in the municipality of Hindang in Southern Leyte. To reach the hidden caves of Hindang, you must climb a set of concrete stairways leading to the forests hiding the caves. There are an estimated six barren caves within Hindang, beautifully formed with stalagmites and stalactites. Unlike many treks to dark hidden caves, the journey is a refreshing treat as you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery. Before you reach the cave complex, you’ll be greeted by wild monkeys. You don’t want to bring any food (it’s also prohibited) as these creatures expect you to feed them.