South Luzon Travel Guide
South Luzon is a region of the Philippines known for its mountains, forests, secluded beaches and active volcanoes. Tourists who don’t mind sacrificing on facilities enjoy the seclusion this area offers.
The region has many active volcanoes include Mt Isarog, Mt Iriga, Mt Bulusan and Mt Mayon. The latter is known for its perfect conical peak and is regularly scaled by intrepid climbers. Hiring a guide is important (and usually required) for climbing any of South Luzon’s volcanic peaks.
Beaches and coastal areas are the other major attraction. Some of the beaches boast powdery white sand, while others have grayed with a hint of volcanic ash. In either event, the sand is soft and fine. Island-hopping, kayaking and caving are all popular activities.
Getting There & Away
Legaspi is the unofficial gateway to South Luzon, though Naga Airport in Pili receives a share of the traffic. In either event, flights from the major international airport in Manila take about an hour. From these cities it’s anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours to your South Luzon destination. Long-haul coaches from Manila take at least 10 hours.
Things to Do
South Luzon Attractions
- Legaspi
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Gateway to the region, legaspi is also known for conical mt mayon, the most active volcano in the region.
- Daet
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This town is a surfer’s paradise, though there’s little here for the uninitiated.
- Donsol
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This fishing village was unknown to tourists before the ‘discovery’ of the whale shark. now it’s a leading destination that organizes swimming sessions with these enormous, albeit gentle, beasts.
- Iriga
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This town sits on a beautiful lake that was formed in the 17th century when the adjoining volcano sent ripples through the earth. it’s now a secluded, resort-style getaway with eco-tourism potential.
- Camaroan Peninsula
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The rugged backcountry of south luzon, this area boasts remote beaches, caves and a delightful lack of infrastructure.