There are so many amazing things to do in the Philippines and sights to see.
A gem that most travelers don’t discover, is the Philippine Islands. It is a small and quiet country in Asia that has secluded isles, sun-kissed days, friendly locals, and an endless array of activities.
This beautiful country has luscious natural wonders, beautiful beaches that are like pieces of paradise on earth, and out-of-this-world activities to try. This is a great destination to visit if you love going off-the-beaten-track.
In this article, we share with you the top unusual things to do in the Philippines. Get ready to list them down or save this article for your next escapade.
Unusual Things to Do in the Philippines
Things to Do in the Philippines: Witness The Hanging Coffins of Sagada
The Philippines has a rich culture and unique traditions in each province. In the mountainous region of Sagada, the locals bury or cremate their dead and hang their coffins on the side of the mountain.
There are several reasons for this tradition. The first is the spiritual reason which is that the dead are thought to be brought closer to their ancestors. Another reason is practicality. During the tribal wars in their province, hanging their dead in coffins by the mountains was a way to protect their dead from the headhunters of enemy tribes.
Although only a few follow this tradition at present, the old coffins are still seen hanging by the mountainside to this day.
Thriller (Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center style)
Another one of the unusual things to do in the Philippines is to watch the famous performance of the Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center. This is where the prisoners of the Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehab Center perform live for others to watch.
You may have witnessed the famous Thriller performance on YouTube, but watching it live is another experience. If you get the chance, we recommend you add this to your itinerary.
Their performances are open to the public every 4th Saturday of the month.
Unusual Things to Do in the Philippines: Visit the “Chocolate Hills”
Our next recommended unusual thing to do in the Philippines is to visit the famous Chocolate Hills. And no, these aren’t edible!
Bohol is one of the provinces in the Philippines which is famous for its Chocolate Hills. This surreal and breathtaking landscape draws tourists to this province all year long.
However, it’s only during the dry season that the chocolate of the hills can be visible. We recommend going there from February to May, which are the hottest months in the Philippines. The Chocolate Hills consists of 1,268 hills that are teardrop-shaped.
See the Smallest Tarsier
Another unusual thing to do in the Philippines is to visit the smallest tarsier in the world. Still, in Bohol, you’ll be able to find one of the world’s smallest primates, the Philippine tarsier (Tarsius syrichta).
Just a gentle reminder not to touch these furry friends but only admire them from afar.
Relax in a Giant “Wok” Hot Tub in Antique
This may be one of the top unusual things to do in the Philippines.
Have you ever tried a jacuzzi inside a wok? Yes, a wok, made for cooking.
In the province of Antique, you can experience getting into a water-filled wok being heated by a fire underneath. But don’t worry! It’s definitely safe and no one was ever cooked there!
Experience a good hot bath in the outdoors with luscious sceneries.
Ride the Sand Dunes at Ilocos Norte
If you’re up for some active adventure, then try riding the sand dunes in Ilocos Norte.
Sandboarding is the pride and joy of the city of Laoag, Ilocos Norte. This heart-pumping activity will leave you thrilled and exhilarated. Ride through these coastal deserts and down the sand dunes with surfboards available from the locals.
Pro tip: Remember to close your mouth while surfing to avoid munching on sand grains after!
Last Unusual Thing to Do in the Philippines: Try Tasting Balut
Balut is a duck embryo that is a staple in the Philippines. Although this isn’t ideal for picky-eaters. But for those who are adventurous and want to try exotic food, this one is for you!
Balut is available all over the Philippines. It is prepared by letting a duck fetus grow for approximately 7-9 days and then boiling it. Although the look and smell can be off-putting especially for first-timers, the taste isn’t that bad once you get the image of a small duck embryo out of your mind.
Related: Uncommon Travel Tips
In Conclusion
The Philippines is a beautiful country and would be a great addition to your travel bucket list. Not only is the island breath-taking but there as so many unusual things you can do too.