Most Beautiful National Parks in the Philippines (Top 10)

If you're looking for breathtaking scenery, hikes, waterfalls, and even volcanoes, here are the top 10 most beautiful national parks in the Philippines to check out.

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park

One of the most famous natural wonders in the country, this UNESCO-listed site features an underground river that runs straight through a limestone cave system. You can take a boat tour through the river, which passes under towering cave ceilings and limestone cliffs.

It’s located in Sabang, Palawan, about two hours from Puerto Princesa city.

Highlights:

• Underground river boat tours
• Massive limestone caves
• Surrounded by lush jungle and wildlife

Mount Pulag National Park

Mount Pulag is the third-highest mountain in the Philippines and probably the most iconic hiking spot in Luzon. Hikers climb it for the chance to see the sea of clouds at sunrise from the summit.

The national park is home to mossy forests, dwarf bamboo grasslands, and several endangered species.

Highlights:

• Famous "sea of clouds" sunrise view
• Several hiking trails with epic views
• Cold mountain air and unique flora

Apo Reef Natural Park

If you're into diving, this is paradise. Apo Reef is the second-largest contiguous coral reef in the world, and the largest in the Philippines. Located off the coast of Mindoro, it’s packed with marine life, coral walls, and clear blue water.

This is a national park you explore underwater, not by hiking.

Highlights:

• World-class diving and snorkeling
• Coral reefs, sharks, turtles, and more
• Remote and untouched

Taal Volcano Protected Landscape

Taal Volcano Protected Landscape is a national park home to 47 small volcanoes. While they may be small, the setting is dramatic—a volcano inside a lake, with another lake inside the volcano’s crater. It’s one of the most iconic natural landscapes in the country.

Boat rides and hiking tours were once available before recent eruptions, but access now varies depending on volcanic activity.

Highlights:

• Stunning lake-within-a-volcano setting
• Great photo opportunities
• Easy day trip from Manila

Mount Apo Natural Park

Mount Apo National Park is home to the tallest mountain in the Philippines. It’s a bucket list hike for serious trekkers, offering volcanic rock formations, mossy forests, and sulfur vents along the way.

It also plays a big role in the local culture and biodiversity of Mindanao.

Highlights:

• Highest peak in the country
• Multi-day hikes through diverse terrain
• Natural hot springs and volcanic vents

Mount Kitanglad Range Natural Park

Located in Bukidnon, Northern Mindanao, Mount Kitanglad Range Natural Park is a mountain range known for being home to the Philippine eagle, one of the rarest birds in the world. The peaks also offer sweeping views of forests and valleys below.

It’s not as touristy as Mount Apo or Pulag, so you’ll likely have the trails all to yourself.

Highlights:

• One of the most biodiverse areas in the Philippines
• Home to the Philippine eagle
• Quiet trails and forested mountains

Hundred Islands National Park

With over 120 small limestone islands and islets, Hundred Islands National Park is like a tropical maze just off the coast of Alaminos, Pangasinan. You can go island-hopping, snorkeling, kayaking, and even zip-lining across some of the islands.

Some islands are developed for day trips, while others are totally untouched.

Highlights:

• Island-hopping and water activities
• Caves, beaches, and limestone cliffs
• Perfect for families and groups

Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park

Hidden in the forest-covered mountains near Dumaguete, Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park centers around two crater lakes—Lake Balinsasayao and Lake Danao. You can hike around the lakes or take a paddle boat out to soak in the view.

It’s peaceful, cool, and a nice escape from the hot lowlands.

Highlights:

• Scenic crater lakes surrounded by jungle
• Paddle boating, hiking, and birdwatching
• Cooler mountain climate

Bataan National Park

One of the largest protected areas in Luzon, Bataan National Park is made up of forests, waterfalls, rivers, and mountains. It’s not overly commercialized, making it perfect for low-key nature lovers who want to hike or cool off by a hidden waterfall.

It’s close enough for a weekend trip from Metro Manila.

Highlights:

• Jungle hikes and waterfalls
• Good day trip or weekend adventure
• Less crowded than more popular parks

Mts. Iglit–Baco National Park

Located in Mindoro, Mts. Iglit–Baco National Park is best known as the last remaining habitat of the critically endangered tamaraw, a dwarf buffalo that’s only found in the Philippines. But beyond that, the scenery here is unreal—rolling hills, grassy plateaus, misty peaks, and wide open views you won’t see in most parts of the country.

It’s not super touristy, which means you'll likely have the place almost to yourself.

Highlights:

• One of the best spots to see the rare tamaraw
• Beautiful highland landscapes
• Protected UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

Philippines: Cheapest and Most Expensive Times To Visit

Searching for the cheapest and most expensive times to visit the Philippines? This guide has you covered and will help you plan when to visit based on your travel budget.

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