UNESCO sites in the Philippines

Famed for its century-old structures, sweeping mountains and crystal clear waters, the Philippines is an archipelago that boasts more than 7,000 magnificent islands and islets. The country’s history shaped a unique blend of east and west, forming the modern Filipino culture. Its mixture of foreign influences from over a hundred ethnic groups showcases the rich heritage of this beautiful archipelago. This mesmerising Southeast Asian country is home to 6 UNESCO sites that boasts both a wide range of cultural attractions and natural wonders.

What’s more, visiting UNESCO sites is one of the best things to do in the Philippines. So, let’s check them out!

Baroque Churches of the Philippines 

Built by the Spanish from the late 16th to the 18th century, the four Baroque Churches of the Philippines are located in Manila, Santa Maria, Paoay and Miag-ao. Made in a unique Philippine-Hispanic style, the architecture features numerous frescoes and sculptures, vividly painted ceilings and impressive columns. The imposing and awe-inspiring churches are considered national cultural treasures that have become popular tourist attractions over the years. The churches are decorated with elaborate iconography and detailed scenes from the life of Christ. Evident in the decor, the lavish embellishment showcases the traditional Filipino elements, known as horror vacui or the “fear of empty spaces”.

Historic City of Vigan

Established in the 16th century, the city of Vigan has strong Latin roots tempered by strong Chinese, Ilocano and Filipino influences. It’s considered to be the best-preserved example of a Spanish city in Asia. Along with its chequerboard street planning, Vigan has a river that runs through the city called the Mestizo. Providing access to the South China Sea, the name of the river symbolically means “half-blood” or “mixed”. While walking through the cobblestone streets, enjoy the appealing blend of historic café-bars, souvenir shops and museums. Additionally, you might decide to swim in the gorgeous black-sand Mindoro Beach while sipping a cool drink and enjoying the panoramic sunsets.

Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras

Considered by many to be the 8th Wonder of the World, the rice terraces of the Philippines Cordilleras have effortlessly followed the contours of the mountains over the last 2,000 years. This landscape of great beauty is home to the most awe-inspiring rice terraces that stretch for miles into the horizon. Expressing the harmony between the environment and humankind, the fields and the knowledge to farm and sustain them have been handed down from one generation to the next. Moreover, the farming of the rice terraces is closely tied to lunar cycles, and sometimes even accompanied by religious rituals. 

Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary

Located in the province of Davao Oriental, the Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary runs north-south along the Pujada Peninsula. This diverse mountain ecosystem is noted for its one-of-a-kind pygmy forest of century-old trees, inhabited by a high number of endemic plant and animal species. Exceptionally rich in flora and fauna, this mountain holds the title of having the most diverse wildlife populations in the country. These include critically endangered species that can only be found on Mount Hamiguitan, such as the iconic Philippine eagle and Philippine cockatoo. Formed by volcanoes a long time ago, these rugged mountains are made up of volcanic dust and rock which give their beauty an edge. 

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park 

Recognisable by its jaw-dropping cave formations, stunning limestone cliffs and pristine waters, the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is one of the most important protected areas of the Philippines. Featuring a striking karst landscape, the 8.2 kilometres long underground river flows directly into the sea and the nearby cave systems. The caves’ most distinguishing features are stalactites, stalagmites and large underground chambers ideal for caving and exploration. Even though only 4.3 km of the river is allowed for tourist explorations, the national park still offers one of the best eco-tours in the Philippines. In order to arrive here from Puerto Princesa airport, the easiest way is to book a transfer that will take you to Sabang, which is approximately a two-hour ride away from the park. 

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park 

As one of the Philippines’ oldest ecosystems, the Tubbataha Reefs is one of the most interesting national parks in the Philippines. It is situated in a unique position in the middle of the Sulu Sea, in the centre of the Coral Triangle between Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines. Considered to have the most pristine and biologically diverse coral system in the world, the park is made up of several extensive lagoons and two coral islands. This spectacular underwater world is home to more than 1,200 marine species, including algae, sharks, fishes, sea turtles, seabirds and marine mammals. It’s best to visit from mid-March to mid-June since then the turquoise water is the calmest and most pristine, with water visibility of about 30 to 45 metres.

Map of UNESCO sites in the Philippines