5 Destinations in the Visayas Every Traveler Should Visit

The Visayan Islands in the central Philippines make up one of the country’s three major geographical divisions alongside the larger landmasses of Luzon and Mindanao. The region is comprised of six major islands—namely Cebu, Panay, Samar, Leyte, Bohol, and Negros—and hundreds of smaller islands alongside. The Visayas’ location in the heart of the Philippines has historically made it an important gateway to the rest of the archipelago and to the greater Southeast Asian region beyond.

As a tourist destination, the Visayas is primarily known for its profuse natural beauty. The region is home to some of the country’s best-known beaches, diving spots, waterfalls, coves, and much more. Visitors may also enjoy learning about the islands’ rich and colorful history. For instance, historical evidence suggests that the Malay people, one of the first groups of people to settle in the country, first landed in the Visayas. The island of Cebu is where the explorer Ferdinand Magellan made landfall on his transpacific voyage and is now widely hailed as the birthplace of Christianity in the Philippines.

If you’re planning to explore the Visayas on your next vacation, it might be challenging to figure out which parts of the region to visit first. Read on for five must-visit destinations that every traveler is sure to enjoy:

Malapascua Island, Cebu

Malapascua is a small island located in the northern part of Cebu Province that has made headlines in recent years as one of the best dive sites in the Philippines. Most notably, it’s the only place in the world where tourists can dive and swim with thresher sharks in their natural habitat. The promise of guaranteed encounters with these magnificent creatures brings thousands of tourists to Malapascua each year. The best part is that these encounters are sustainable and non-disruptive to local ecosystems, as the sharks visit the area naturally instead of having to be led there with food.

This isn’t to say, of course, that a one-of-a-kind diving experience is all Malapascua has to offer. Non-divers can enjoy a plethora of enjoyable activities on and around the island, such as snorkeling, swimming, exploring, and simply lounging on the fine white sand. Accommodations on the island range from beachfront hotels to dive resorts to quaint hostels and guesthouses. Travelers also have the option of booking hotels in Cebu City proper and taking day trips to the island.

Danjugan Island, Negros Occidental

Located around 3 kilometers off the coast of Negros Occidental, the 43-hectare Danjugan Island is not a resort. Rather, it’s a protected wildlife sanctuary that is managed privately by the Philippine Reef and Rainforest Conservation Foundation, Inc. (PRRCFI). Fishing and other environmentally invasive activities are strictly prohibited on and around the island. The number of visitors to Danjugan is also carefully controlled by the island’s management, not only to preserve the tranquil atmosphere but also to ensure a top-quality experience for all guests.

Danjugan Island is a true biodiversity hotspot, surrounded by thriving coral reefs, beds of sea grass, and majestic rock formations. Divers and snorkelers can see hundreds of different species of fish, myriad corals, giant clams, and sea turtles. The island proper is also covered nearly from end to end in the dense rainforest that’s home to 10 species of bats, 72 bird species, and many more animals besides.

Boracay Island, Aklan

Beloved by beach bums worldwide for its pristine white sands and crystalline waters, the island of Boracay in Aklan Province has long been hailed as one of the Philippines’ most beautiful beaches. Though Boracay’s breathtaking sunsets and picturesque views are more than enough reasons to visit the island and stay for at least a few days, adventure-seekers will also find themselves with no end of enjoyable activities to try. Whether your pleasure is watersports, cliff diving, island hopping, food crawls, or pumping nightlife, there’s something for every kind of visitor to enjoy on Boracay’s shores.

Bacolod City, Negros Occidental

There are two major reasons that Bacolod City is known affectionately nationwide as the City of Smiles. The first is that it’s home to the Masskara Festival, one of the Philippines’ best-known and most colorful festivals. The second is that the local population is known for being exceptionally warm, friendly, and welcoming to visitors. Spend a few days exploring the city’s many historical and cultural sites, partaking of its delectable cuisine, or simply chatting up with people you meet, and you’ll surely find yourself with no end of reasons to smile. Foodies definitely won’t want to miss out on authentic chicken inasal, possibly the most iconic Negrense dish.

Siquijor Island

For years, Siquijor Island has seemed shrouded in mystery to outsiders, known predominantly as a place brimming with magic, mystery, and supernatural phenomena. Adventurous travelers, however, will find Siquijor full of rich culture and unspoiled natural sights. You’ll doubtless need more than one visit to explore the island’s many beaches, caves, and waterfalls. The Cambugahay Falls, a unique three-tier waterfall that drops down into a swimming hole locally known as Lazi Bay, is a must-see attraction.

There you have it, lovelies. The above are just a few of the most memorable destinations that every visitor to the Visayas should see at least once. They’re only scratching the surface of what this wonderful region has the offer, so don’t hesitate to venture off the beaten path and discover more of its wonders for yourself.