Bicol Travel Guide

Discover Bicol with this comprehensive travel guide. Find out where to go, what to do, and what to see when you visit Bicol, Philippines.


Introduction to Bicol

Situated in Luzon, the largest island in the Philippines, Bicol offers a unique travel experience for both adventurers and nature-lovers. Bicol’s stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage make it a must-visit destination in the Philippines.

Bicol is known for its spicy cuisine, beautiful beaches, and majestic hills. You can expect to find a mix of modern cities and untouched wilderness in this region. Home to the famous Mayon Volcano, Bicol is also a popular destination for thrill-seekers.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about visiting Bicol, from the best places to visit and things to do, to where to stay and what to eat.

List of Places to Visit in Bicol

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Cagsawa Ruins
  • Daraga Church
  • Embarcadero de Legazpi
  • Legazpi City Museum
  • Our Lady of Peñafrancia Shrine

Natural Attractions of Bicol: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mayon Volcano
  • Quitinday Green Hills
  • Caramoan Islands
  • Calaguas Islands
  • Subic Beach
  • Donsol Whale Shark Watching

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bicol

  • Mayon ATV Adventure
  • The Lignon Hill Nature Park Hiking Trail
  • Gibalon Eco-Trail

Best Things to Do in Bicol: Activities and Tours

Water Activities

  • Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
  • Island Hopping Tours
  • Stand-Up Paddle Boarding

Land Activities

  • ATV Rides and Mountain Biking
  • Trekking and Nature Hikes
  • Caving at Hoyop-Hoyopan Cave in Camalig
  • Zip-lining in Lignon Hill

Air Activities

  • Parasailing and Ultralight Flying Experience

Week-Long Itinerary for Bicol

Day Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival and check-in at a hotel in Legazpi City. Proceed to Lignon Hill Nature Park.
Day 2 ATV adventure to Mayon Volcano. Afternoon visit to Sumlang Lake in Camalig.
Day 3 Island hopping tour in Caramoan Islands.
Day 4 Day trip to Donsol for whale shark watching.
Day 5 Visit the Cagsawa Ruins in Daraga and Our Lady of Peñafrancia Shrine in Naga.
Day 6 Tour to Subic Beach and Calaguas Islands.
Day 7 Departure from Legazpi City.

Food and Drink Scene of Bicol

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bicol Express - a spicy pork stew
  • Pinangat - a combination of taro leaves, pork, and small shrimps cooked in coconut milk
  • Laing - a spicy dish made of taro leaves and coconut milk
  • Kinunot - a dish made with stingray cooked in coconut milk and chili peppers

Local Beverages

  • Bicol coffee
  • Sili (Chili) Ice Cream

Where to Stay in Bicol: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Oriental Legazpi
  • Hotel Venezia
  • Misibis Bay
  • Villa Caceres Hotel
  • Nipa Hut Hotel
  • Mayon Backpackers Hostel

What to Buy in Bicol: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Pili nuts and products (candies, tarts, and butter)
  • Handicrafts made of abaca (bags, baskets, hats, and mats)
  • Sweet and spicy Bicolano delicacies (chili jams, honey, and candy)

Local Culture and Customs of Bicol

Bicolanos are warm, hospitable, and proud of their heritage. They have a strong connection to their language, Bicolano, which has different dialects depending on the region. One distinctive tradition is the Bicol Express, a dance that honors their patron saint and reflects the experience of Bicolanos under colonial rule.

Best Time to Visit Bicol

The best time to visit Bicol is during the dry season from November to April. This season is sunny and warm, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The wet season from May to October can be unpredictable, with occasional typhoons and heavy rains that can affect travel plans.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bicol

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine.
  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Bring a jacket in case the weather changes.
  • Take part in local festivities and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public places
  • Touch or step on coral reefs during your underwater activities
  • Engage in behavior that may offend the locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bicol

Bicol is a safe region for tourists. However, it’s always best to take proper precautions when traveling to ensure your safety. Make sure to keep your belongings safe and be vigilant when outdoors, especially at night.

Health in Bicol

Be prepared for the heat and humidity in Bicol. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and light clothing, and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. If you have allergies or a medical condition, carry your medications with you at all times.

Getting to Bicol: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bicol

  • Legazpi International Airport
  • Naga Airport

Bus Stations Near Bicol

  • Raymond Transportation
  • Isarog Lines

Other Options

There are also ferry services that connect the region to other parts of the Philippines.

How to Get Around in Bicol

The most convenient way to explore Bicol is by hiring a private car or a van. Alternatively, you can take public transportation like buses, jeepneys, and tricycles.

Where to Go Next from Bicol: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Siargao Island
  • Camiguin Island
  • Palawan Island

Conclusion

Bicol is a hidden gem in the Philippines, waiting to be discovered by adventurous travelers. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and spicy cuisine, Bicol offers a unique travel experience that you won’t find anywhere else. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your trip to Bicol and make the most out of your visit.



    Albay
    Camarines Norte
    Camarines Sur
    Catanduanes
    Masbate
    Sorsogon