Central Visayas Travel Guide
Explore Central Visayas with this comprehensive travel guide, featuring the best things to do, places to visit, and where to stay in the region.
- Introduction to Central Visayas
- List of Places to Visit in Central Visayas
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Central Visayas
- Cebu Transcentral Highway
- Bohol Biking Trail
- Best Things to Do in Central Visayas: Activities and Tours
- Island Hopping Tours
- Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
- Waterfall Chasing
- Week-Long Itinerary for Central Visayas
- Food and Drink Scene of Central Visayas
- Where to Stay in Central Visayas: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Luxurious Hotels
- Budget-Friendly Accommodations
- What to Buy in Central Visayas: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Pasalubong Items
- Local Products
- Local Culture and Customs of Central Visayas
- Best Time to Visit Central Visayas
- Do’s and Don’ts of Central Visayas
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Central Visayas: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Central Visayas
- Where to Go Next from Central Visayas: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Negros Island
- Palawan
- Conclusion
Introduction to Central Visayas
Central Visayas is one of the regions in the Philippines located in the Visayas Island group. It is situated in the heart of the country, surrounded by various bodies of water, including the Visayan Sea, Camotes Sea, and Bohol Sea. Known for its beautiful islands, stunning natural attractions, and rich cultural heritage, Central Visayas is a region that offers a diverse range of activities and adventures for travelers.
List of Places to Visit in Central Visayas
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Magellan’s Cross (Cebu City)
Magellan’s Cross is a historical site that marks the introduction of Christianity in the Philippines. It is believed that Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan planted the cross in the spot where the locals accepted the Christian faith. Today, the cross is enclosed in a chapel and has become a popular tourist attraction in the region.
Casa Gorordo Museum (Cebu City)
Casa Gorordo Museum is a 19th-century house transformed into a museum that showcases the lifestyle and culture of the Filipino upper class during the Spanish colonial period. It features artifacts, furniture, clothes, and other pieces that offer a glimpse of the country’s past.
Chocolate Hills (Bohol)
One of the most famous natural attractions in the Philippines, the Chocolate Hills is a geological formation consisting of 1,776 cone-shaped hills that turn brown during the dry season, hence the name. The hills are located in Carmen, Bohol, and are believed to be millions of years old.
Natural Attractions of Central Visayas: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Apo Island (Negros Oriental)
Apo Island is a small volcanic island located off the coast of Negros Oriental. It is home to a marine sanctuary that boasts a diverse range of aquatic species, including sea turtles, colorful fishes, and other marine creatures. The island is also known for its impressive coral reef that attracts snorkelers and divers from all over the world.
Osmeña Peak (Cebu)
Osmeña Peak is the highest peak in Cebu that offers a stunning view of the island. It is a popular destination among hikers and mountaineers, and it is best to climb early in the morning to avoid the heat.
Tarsier Sanctuary (Bohol)
The Tarsier Sanctuary, located in Corella, Bohol, is a protected area where visitors can observe the unique tarsier species, one of the smallest primates in the world. These nocturnal creatures are known for their big eyes, long tails, and agility, which makes them one of the must-see attractions in the region.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Central Visayas
Cebu Transcentral Highway
The Cebu Transcentral Highway is a scenic route that connects Cebu City to the towns of Balamban and Balilihan. The route offers breathtaking views of the mountains, valleys, and villages. There are also several hiking trails in the area, including the popular Osmeña Peak climb.
Bohol Biking Trail
The Bohol Biking Trail is a 20-kilometer scenic route that winds around the Chocolate Hills and through several quaint villages in the area. The route is ideal for mountain biking enthusiasts who want to explore the region’s stunning scenery while getting a workout.
Best Things to Do in Central Visayas: Activities and Tours
Island Hopping Tours
Central Visayas is home to some of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines, and island hopping tours are one of the best ways to explore these destinations. Some of the popular islands to visit include Pescador Island, Siquijor Island, and Sumilon Island.
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
With its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life, scuba diving and snorkeling are popular activities in Central Visayas. Some of the best spots to explore include Apo Island, Moalboal, and Balicasag Island.
Waterfall Chasing
Central Visayas is also known for its stunning waterfalls, including Kawasan Falls in Cebu, and the Cambugahay Falls and Lagaan Falls in Siquijor. Visitors can enjoy swimming, trekking, and picnicking in these picturesque spots.
Week-Long Itinerary for Central Visayas
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Explore Cebu City: Magellan's Cross, Basilica Del Santo Niño, Taoist Temple |
| 2 | Scuba Diving in Moalboal |
| 3 | Island Hopping in Bohol: Pamilacan Island, Balicasag Island, Virgin Island |
| 4 | Visit the Chocolate Hills and Tarsier Sanctuary in Bohol |
| 5 | Trek to Osmeña Peak in Cebu |
| 6 | Relax on the beaches of Siquijor |
| 7 | Explore Dumaguete City: Rizal Boulevard, Silliman University, Siliman Marine Laboratory |
Food and Drink Scene of Central Visayas
Must-Try Dishes
Lechon (Roasted Pig)
Lechon or roasted pig is one of Cebu’s most famous dishes. The skin is crispy, while the meat is juicy and flavorful. It is usually served during special occasions such as weddings, birthdays, and fiestas.
Suman (Sticky Rice Cake)
Suman is a Filipino delicacy made from glutinous rice cooked in coconut milk and wrapped in banana leaves. It is often eaten as a snack or dessert.
Local Beverages
Lambanog (Coconut Wine)
Lambanog is a popular alcoholic beverage in the Philippines made from coconut sap. It has a high alcohol content, and it is often served during special occasions and social gatherings.
Barako (Philippine Coffee)
Barako is a type of coffee that is originated from the Batangas province in the Philippines. It is a strong coffee with a distinct flavor that is best enjoyed with muscovado sugar and milk.
Where to Stay in Central Visayas: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Luxurious Hotels
Shangri-La Mactan Island Resort and Spa (Cebu)
The Shangri-La Mactan Island Resort and Spa is a five-star hotel located in Mactan Island, Cebu. It offers luxurious accommodations, excellent amenities, and breathtaking views of the Visayan Sea.
Amorita Resort (Bohol)
The Amorita Resort is a five-star beachfront resort in Bohol. It is known for its luxurious rooms, infinity pools, and stunning ocean views.
Budget-Friendly Accommodations
La Maria Pension and Tourist Inn (Cebu)
La Maria Pension and Tourist Inn is a budget-friendly option located in the heart of Cebu City. It offers comfortable rooms and a convenient location near popular tourist spots and public transportation.
JJ’s Backpackers Village (Siquijor)
JJ’s Backpackers Village is a cozy hostel in Siquijor that offers affordable accommodations and a laid-back atmosphere. It is a perfect choice for budget travelers and backpackers.
What to Buy in Central Visayas: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Pasalubong Items
Dried Mangoes
Dried mangoes are one of Cebu’s most popular pasalubongs. They are sweet, chewy, and delicious, and they make excellent snacks.
Tablea
Tablea are chocolate tablets made from roasted cacao beans, sugar, and sometimes milk. They can be used to make hot chocolate drinks, baked goods, and other desserts.
Local Products
Tarsier Figurines
Tarsier figurines are cute and quirky souvenirs that are perfect for animal lovers. They are made from wood, clay, or resin and can be found in souvenir shops in Bohol and other tourist spots in Central Visayas.
Local Culture and Customs of Central Visayas
Central Visayas is a region that is rich in culture, traditions, and customs. The locals are known for their hospitality, friendliness, and warmth. Religion plays a significant role in their lives, and many festivals and celebrations are held throughout the year to honor various patron saints and other religious figures.
Best Time to Visit Central Visayas
The best time to visit Central Visayas is during the dry season, which runs from December to May. The weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear during this time, making it ideal for outdoor activities and tours. The peak season is from December to January, where hotels and resorts are fully booked, and prices are higher than usual.
Do’s and Don’ts of Central Visayas
Do:
- Respect the local customs and traditions
- Dress modestly when visiting religious sites
- Try the local delicacies
- Bargain when shopping in markets and souvenir shops
Don’t:
- Litter or vandalize public places
- Touch or disturb the tarsiers in Bohol
- Disrespect the locals and their beliefs
- Carry large amounts of cash when traveling
Safety and Health
Safety in Central Visayas
Central Visayas is generally a safe region for travelers. However, it is always best to practice caution when exploring unfamiliar places. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas. Take extra care when swimming or doing water activities and follow the guidelines and instructions given by the tour operators.
Health in Central Visayas
Make sure to bring necessary medications such as mosquito repellent, sunblock, and anti-diarrhea medicine. Drink only bottled water or boiled water. It is also recommended to get vaccinated before traveling to the region. Consult your physician or travel clinic for the necessary vaccines and medications.
Getting to Central Visayas: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Central Visayas
The main airports in Central Visayas are Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) in Cebu and Tagbilaran Airport (TAG) in Bohol. These airports serve domestic and international flights to and from major cities in the Philippines and neighboring countries.
Bus Stations Near Central Visayas
Ceres Liner is the most popular bus company servicing the routes between Central Visayas cities. The company has several terminals located in Cebu City, Bacolod, Dumaguete, and Iloilo, among others.
Other Options
One can also use ferry services from ports in Cebu and Bohol to other destinations in the Visayas and Mindanao regions in the Philippines.
How to Get Around in Central Visayas
The most common way to get around Central Visayas is by using public transportation such as buses, jeepneys, tricycles, and taxis. It is also possible to rent a car or hire a private driver for more convenience. For island hopping tours, travel agencies and tour operators offer packages that include boat rides and transportation to and from the islands.
Where to Go Next from Central Visayas: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Negros Island
Negros Island is located near Central Visayas and offers a wide range of attractions and activities for travelers. The island is known for its beaches, waterfalls, and dive sites, as well as its bustling cities and delicious cuisine.
Palawan
Palawan is considered one of the most beautiful islands in the world and is situated west of Central Visayas. It is known for its stunning beaches, lagoons, and natural wonders such as the Puerto Princesa Underground River.
Conclusion
Central Visayas is a region that offers a lot of adventures and experiences for travelers. From exploring historical sites to enjoying the beach and outdoor activities, there is something for everyone in this region. With its diverse culture, welcoming locals, and breathtaking scenery, Central Visayas is a destination that is worth adding to your travel bucket list.
