Cavite Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, accommodations, and tips for traveling to Cavite in the Philippines with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Cavite

Cavite is a province located in the Calabarzon region of Luzon in the Philippines. It is known for its rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. Its close proximity to Metro Manila makes it a popular destination for weekend getaways or day trips.

List of Places to Visit in Cavite

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Cavite is home to numerous historical and cultural landmarks that tell the story of the province’s past.

Corregidor Island

Located at the entrance of Manila Bay, Corregidor Island is a historic site that played a significant role during World War II. Visitors can take a ferry from Manila or Cavite to the island and explore its various installations and war memorials.

Aguinaldo Shrine

The Aguinaldo Shrine is a national landmark that was once the home of Emilio Aguinaldo, the first president of the Philippines. The shrine houses a museum that features a collection of artifacts and memorabilia related to the country’s struggle for independence.

Fort San Felipe

Fort San Felipe is a Spanish colonial-era fortification that served as a defense against pirates and foreign invasions. The fort is open for public tours and offers breathtaking views of Manila Bay and the surrounding areas.

Natural Attractions of Cavite: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Cavite is home to beautiful natural attractions that offer a respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Tagaytay Ridge

Tagaytay Ridge is a popular destination known for its stunning views of Taal Volcano and Lake. Visitors can take a scenic drive along the ridge, go horseback riding, or indulge in a hot bowl of bulalo (beef soup) in one of the many restaurants and eateries nearby.

Mount Pico de Loro

Mount Pico de Loro is a popular hiking spot that offers stunning views of Batangas and Cavite. The hike takes around 4-5 hours to complete and is suitable for hikers of all skill levels.

Puerto Azul Beach

Puerto Azul Beach is a secluded and pristine beach located along the coast of Cavite. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing or just lounging on the soft white sand.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cavite

Cavite has several hiking and biking routes that offer an exhilarating outdoor adventure experience.

Mount Palay-Palay/Mataas na Gulod Protected Landscape

Mount Palay-Palay/Mataas na Gulod Protected Landscape is a popular hiking destination that features a diverse array of flora and fauna. Visitors can trek through the mountain’s lush forests, see the stunning Pawikan Cave, and take in the breathtaking views from the summit.

Cavite Coastal Road Bike Lane

The Cavite Coastal Road Bike Lane is a 15-kilometer stretch that offers a scenic biking route along the coast of Cavite. The bike lane offers stunning views of Manila Bay and is a perfect spot for a leisurely bike ride.

Best Things to Do in Cavite: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or adventure seeker, Cavite has something for everyone.

Taal Volcano Island Tour

Take a boat tour of Taal Volcano Island, one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines. Visitors can trek to the volcano’s summit, see the crater lake, and marvel at the magnificent views of Taal Lake.

Imus Heritage Tour

Discover the rich history and culture of Imus, a town in Cavite, by taking an Imus Heritage Tour. The tour takes visitors to several historical landmarks, including the Tampus House, Imus Cathedral, and the Imus City Museum.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cavite

Day 1: Visit Corregidor Island Day 2: Hiking at Mount Pico de Loro Day 3: Explore the Aguinaldo Shrine and Museum Day 4: Bike along the Cavite Coastal Road Bike Lane Day 5: Take a tour of Imus Heritage Landmarks Day 6: Swim at Puerto Azul Beach Day 7: Visit Tagaytay Ridge

Food and Drink Scene of Cavite

Cavite is known for its hearty and flavorful cuisine.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Bulalo - a beef soup made with bone marrow and vegetables.
  2. Adobo - a popular Filipino dish made with pork or chicken, vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic.
  3. Lomi - a noodle soup made with thick noodles, pork, shrimp, and vegetables.

Local Beverages

  1. Kapeng Barako - a strong and aromatic coffee that is grown in the Batangas and Cavite regions.
  2. Lambanog - a Filipino distilled liquor made from coconut sap.

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

Cavite has a variety of accommodations to suit every budget.

The Bayleaf Cavite

Located in General Trias, The Bayleaf Cavite is a luxurious hotel that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The hotel features an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant that serves local and international cuisine.

Jardin de Dasmariñas

Jardin de Dasmariñas is a charming guesthouse located in the heart of Dasmariñas. The guesthouse features beautifully landscaped gardens and comfortable rooms that are perfect for a peaceful stay.

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

Cavite is known for its handicrafts and delicacies.

Bagoong

Bagoong is a popular Filipino condiment made from fermented fish or shrimp. Cavite is known for its high-quality bagoong, which is often used in Filipino dishes.

Handicrafts

Cavite is also known for its handicrafts, including woven baskets, pottery, and wood carvings. Visitors can purchase these items at local markets and souvenir shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Cavite

Cavite has a rich cultural history that is deeply intertwined with the province’s past.

Festivals

The province of Cavite is known for its colorful and vibrant festivals, including the Feast of Imus, the Longganisa Festival, and the Anilag Festival. These festivals celebrate the province’s history, culture, and heritage.

Best Time to Visit Cavite

Cavite can be visited all year round. However, the best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from November to May. The temperature is cooler during this time, and outdoor activities are more enjoyable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cavite

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions
  • Try the local delicacies and cuisine
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment
  • Disrespect local customs or beliefs
  • Touch or harm any wildlife

Safety and Health

Safety in Cavite

Cavite is generally safe for tourists. However, visitors should take the usual precautions and avoid walking alone at night or in isolated areas.

Health in Cavite

Visitors to Cavite should be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles, mumps, rubella, and tetanus. It is also recommended to take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses, such as dengue fever.

Getting to Cavite: Transportation Options and Logistics

Cavite is easily accessible from Manila and other nearby provinces.

Airports Near Cavite

The nearest airport to Cavite is the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila.

Bus Stations Near Cavite

Several bus companies operate daily routes to Cavite from Manila and other nearby provinces. Buses typically depart from the Cubao or Baclaran bus stations.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a private car or hire a taxi to reach Cavite. There are also several car rental companies available in Manila.

How to Get Around in Cavite

There are several transportation options available for getting around Cavite, including tricycles, buses, and jeepneys. Visitors can also rent a car or hire a taxi for a more convenient mode of transportation.

Where to Go Next from Cavite: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Cavite is located near several nearby provinces and destinations that are worth visiting.

Batangas

The nearby province of Batangas offers stunning beaches, resorts, and natural attractions such as the Taal Volcano.

Manila

The bustling capital city of Manila is just a short drive away from Cavite and offers numerous tourist attractions, including historical landmarks, museums, and shopping centers.

Conclusion

Cavite is an excellent destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the history, culture, and natural beauty of the Philippines. Its close proximity to Manila makes it an excellent day trip or weekend getaway destination, and its variety of attractions and activities ensure that everyone will enjoy their time in Cavite.