Visayas Travel Guide

Discover the top attractions, activities, and travel tips for Visayas, a hidden gem in the Philippines. From cultural landmarks to outdoor adventures, this guide has it all.


Introduction to Visayas

Visayas is a region located in the central part of the Philippines, composed of numerous islands. The region is often bypassed by travelers who typically flock to more popular destinations like Boracay or Palawan. However, Visayas is a hidden gem that is definitely worth your attention. This region is rich in history, culture, natural wonders, and friendly locals who are always ready to offer their warm hospitality.

List of Places to Visit in Visayas

If you have a limited time to explore the region, consider including the following places in your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Fort San Pedro in Cebu City: This military defense structure was built during the Spanish colonial period, and it’s considered one of the oldest and smallest forts in the Philippines.
  • Magellan’s Cross in Cebu City: This is one of the most important landmarks in the city, as it marks the arrival of the Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan in 1521.
  • Bacolod City Museum in Bacolod: Here, you can learn about the city’s history and culture, as well as admire its vintage artifacts, photos, and artworks.

Natural Attractions of Visayas: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Chocolate Hills in Bohol: This iconic natural wonder is composed of over 1,200 grassy hills that turn chocolate brown during dry season.
  • Apo Island in Negros Oriental: This small volcanic island is a popular diving and snorkeling spot, thanks to its diverse marine life and clear waters.
  • Kalanggaman Island in Leyte: This remote island is a postcard-perfect paradise, with its white sand beach, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Visayas

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Visayas:

  • Mount Kanlaon in Negros Occidental: This active stratovolcano is known for its challenging but rewarding hiking trails, which offer stunning views of Negros Island and the surrounding landscapes.
  • Bacolod-Silay Bike Route in Bacolod: This 18-kilometer scenic route will take you through some of the old ancestral houses, rice fields, and sugar cane plantations of the city’s neighboring towns.

Best Things to Do in Visayas: Activities and Tours

Apart from the natural and cultural attractions, here are some other things to do in Visayas:

  • Whale shark watching in Oslob in Cebu: Get up close and personal with the gentle giants of the sea, and witness their majestic grace firsthand.
  • Island hopping in Gigantes Islands in Iloilo: Explore the untamed beauty of these off-the-beaten-path islands, and discover hidden coves, fishing villages, and rock formations.

Week-Long Itinerary for Visayas

Here’s a sample itinerary for your week-long trip to Visayas:

Day 1 Cebu City Tour (Fort San Pedro, Magellan’s Cross, Cebu Taoist Temple)
Day 2 Island hopping in Malapascua Island
Day 3 Bohol Countryside Tour (Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, Loboc River Cruise)
Day 4 Apo Island Diving and Snorkeling
Day 5 Bacolod City Tour (Negros Museum, The Ruins, Mambukal Hot Springs)
Day 6 Kalanggaman Island Escapade
Day 7 Whale Shark Watching in Oslob

Food and Drink Scene of Visayas

Visayas is a foodie paradise, with its rich culinary heritage and diverse influences.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lechon de Cebu in Cebu: This roasted pig dish is known for its crispy skin and savory meat, often rubbed with spices and herbs.
  • Chicken Inasal in Bacolod: This grilled chicken dish is marinated in a special mixture of spices, vinegar, calamansi, and annatto oil, giving it a sweet and tangy flavor.
  • Batchoy in Iloilo: This hot noodle soup features pork organs, garlic, scallions, and fried garlic, perfect for warming your soul on a rainy day.

Local Beverages

  • Tuba in Negros Occidental: This local drink is made from the sap of coconut trees, and can be served fresh or fermented. It’s often paired with grilled seafood or meat.
  • Calamansi Juice in Bohol: This refreshing drink is made from the local calamansi fruit, often mixed with honey or sugar for added sweetness.
  • Barako Coffee in Batangas: This bold and fragrant coffee is made from the Liberica beans, and is a popular breakfast drink for locals.

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

Visayas offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts. Here are some recommendations:

  • Mango Tree House in Dumaguete: This cozy guesthouse is located in the heart of Dumaguete, and offers a homey and rustic charm, with its bamboo furnishings and lush garden.
  • Summit Galleria Cebu in Cebu: This modern hotel is conveniently located near the city’s shopping centers, historical landmarks, and transportation hubs.
  • Camp Sawi Surf Camp in Siargao: This surf camp is a favorite among backpackers and surf enthusiasts, thanks to its laid-back vibe, affordable rates, and beachfront location.

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

Here are some souvenirs and local products that you can bring home as a reminder of your Visayas trip:

  • Puso in Cebu: This rice delicacy is wrapped in palm leaves, and is a popular staple in Cebuano cuisine.
  • Philippine Weaves in Iloilo: These handwoven fabrics showcase the intricate patterns and colors of Visayan culture, and can be used as clothing, accessories, or decor.
  • Muscovado Sugar in Negros Occidental: This unrefined brown sugar is made from sugarcane, and is a healthier and tastier alternative to regular sugar.

Local Culture and Customs of Visayas

Visayan culture is deeply rooted in its history and traditions, influenced by its pre-colonial roots, Spanish heritage, and modern developments. Some common customs and practices include the following:

  • Fiesta Celebrations: This is a festive tradition that celebrates various events and milestones, often accompanied by food, music, dances, and religious rituals.
  • Bayanihan: This is a community spirit that promotes cooperation and mutual help among neighbors, especially during times of need.
  • Respect for Elders: This is a cultural value that emphasizes reverence and obedience to older people, often shown through gestures and greetings.

Best Time to Visit Visayas

The best time to visit Visayas depends on your travel preferences and itinerary. Generally, the region has a tropical climate, with two distinct seasons:

  • Dry Season (November to April): This is the peak tourist season, with less rainfall and more sunny days. Perfect for outdoor activities and beach hopping.
  • Wet Season (May to October): This is the low tourist season, with more rainfall and occasional typhoons. However, this is also the time for cheaper rates and less crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Visayas

Do:

  • Respect the Local Customs and Traditions: Dress modestly, practice basic etiquette, and avoid sensitive topics or behaviors.
  • Try Local Food and Drinks: Visayan cuisine is a reflection of its culture and history, so don’t be afraid to sample new flavors and dishes.
  • Use Public Transportation: This is an affordable and convenient way to explore the region, and also a chance to interact with locals.

Don’t:

  • Litter or Pollute: Keep Visayas clean and beautiful, and dispose of your trash properly.
  • Disrespect Religious Sites: If you’re visiting a place of worship, dress modestly and follow the rules or guidelines.
  • Engage in Illegal Activities: This includes drug use, gambling, prostitution, and other activities that violate the law and local values.

Safety and Health

Safety in Visayas

Visayas is generally safe for tourists, but it’s important to take necessary precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Avoid Unlit or Isolated Areas: Stick to well-lit and crowded areas, especially at night.
  • Be Alert for Scams or Fraud: Don’t fall for common tourist scams, such as fake tour packages, overpriced souvenirs, or pickpocketing.
  • Keep Your Valuables Safe: Secure your cash, passports, and gadgets in a safe or portable locker, and avoid flaunting your wealth in public.

Health in Visayas

Visayas has a relatively good healthcare system, with many hospitals and medical clinics available in major cities and towns. However, it’s still important to take preventive measures and prepare for emergencies.

  • Get Vaccinated: Consult your doctor or travel clinic for recommended vaccines, such as Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and influenza.
  • Bring Medications: Take enough prescription medications or OTC drugs for your trip, and also bring basic first aid supplies and insect repellents.
  • Drink Safe Water: Avoid drinking tap water or unboiled water, and opt for bottled water or boiled water instead.

Getting to Visayas: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visayas is easily accessible through various transportation modes, both domestic and international.

Airports Near Visayas

There are several airports in the Visayas region, including:

  • Mactan-Cebu International Airport in Cebu: The busiest airport in Visayas, with domestic and international flights to major cities in Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.
  • Tagbilaran Airport in Bohol: This small airport has daily flights to and from Manila and Cebu.
  • Bacolod-Silay International Airport in Bacolod: This airport serves domestic flights from Manila, Cebu, and other cities in the Philippines.

Bus Stations Near Visayas

If you’re coming from Manila, you can take a bus or a van to reach Visayas. Here are some major bus stations:

  • Cubao in Quezon City
  • Pasay in Pasay City
  • Alabang in Muntinlupa City

Other Options

Aside from air and land transportation, you can also travel to Visayas by sea. There are several ferry services and passenger ships that connect the different islands and provinces of the region.

How to Get Around in Visayas

Visayas has various modes of transportation that you can use to get around, depending on your budget, destination, and preference. Here are some options:

  • Jeepneys: This is a common mode of transportation in the Philippines, and is often used for short distances and inner-city trips.
  • Tricycles: This is a motorcycle with a sidecar, and can also be used for short trips or sightseeing.
  • Taxi or Grab: This is a convenient but more expensive option, especially for longer trips or airport transfers.
  • Buses or Vans: This is ideal for inter-city or inter-provincial trips, and is often equipped with air conditioning and onboard amenities.

Where to Go Next from Visayas: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Visayas, you may want to visit other nearby destinations, such as:

  • Palawan: This is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches, limestone cliffs, and underground river.
  • Boracay: This is a top beach destination in the Philippines, famous for its powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.
  • Siargao: This is a surfer’s paradise, with its world-class waves, laid-back vibe, and breathtaking island scenery.

Conclusion

Visayas is a region that offers a lot of surprises and treasures, waiting to be discovered by intrepid travelers. From its rich culture and history to its stunning landscapes and gastronomic delights, Visayas is definitely worth your time, energy, and resources. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Visayas has something for everyone. So pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable Visayan journey!

Administrative regions. The major islands, from west to east, are Panay, Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Leyte and Samar Island Administrative regions. The major islands, from west to east, are Panay, Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Leyte and Samar Island A tarsier of Bohol A tarsier of Bohol


    Biliran
    Bohol
    Cebu Province
    Central Visayas
    Leyte Island
    Negros
    Panay
    Samar Island
    Siquijor
    Western Visayas