Uncharted Philippines | Histoires De Voyages

Weird Sports and Hobbies You Can Do in the Philippines

Sometimes the best adventures are those that are not that obvious. Of course hiking, snorkeling and beach bumming are all attractive activities to do during a vacation but what about the stranger, unorthodox activities that will get your friends to ask, “You did what?” These fun yet strange activities to do in the Philippines will elicit that reaction as well as provide you will a camera roll full of one-of-a-kind snapshots.
Keeping Tourism Sustainable in the Philippines

Over the years heavy tourism has started to affect the natural areas of the Philippines and pollution and trash have started to take over highly trafficked areas. This is why the Department of Tourism in the Philippines has decided to revive its well-known “More Fun” slogan ” but with a new focus on ecotourism with the aim of preserving the natural areas for future generations to come. So how will that affect you as a tourist and how can you do your part to keep the Philippines green and blue for future generations? Read on below to find out.
Traveling Solo? Best Places to Meet Fellow Singletons in the Philippines

The Philippines is a great country to visit solo as there’s something for everyone whether you’re into dancing, history or food. And if you’re looking for specific hot spots to meet your new best friend, check out some of the hippest venues below that will get you feeling social and feeling at home in no time.
Should You Be Worried About Mosquitoes in the Philippines? The Biting Truth

Mosquitoes are an annoyance on the best of days but when it comes to travelling to tropical areas around the world where there are heavier concentrations of the insect, it can become more than just a nuisance. The Philippines, being a fertile, tropical and bio-diverse land, has a lot of these little critters buzzing around at any given time. If you want to enjoy a Filipino vacation and be completely worry free, be sure to put your mind at ease with the facts below and travel smart.
The Best Islands and Beaches in the Philippines that You Have Never Heard Of

As the weather is going from cold to colder, it’s hard not to start dreaming of white sandy beaches and sunny weather with crisp ocean water lapping at your feet. Fortunately, flying to the Philippines can cure the autumn/winter blues and you’ll be relaxing in the sun in no time. Get your selfie sticks out and your sunscreen bottles and head on over to the Philippines to visit one of these hidden gems of beaches.
Where to Get the Best Gifts for Co-workers in the Philippines

When it comes to getting gifts for co-workers in the Philippines, you as a traveler have hit the jackpot. Not only are many of the items inexpensive but they are also made out of unique materials and simple, everyday items are reimagined with an exotic eye. Take a look below at the top three secret shopping locations that will make both your wallet and your friends back home happy.
Why the Philippines is Your Ultimate Water Sport Destination

Diving, kite surfing, rafting, water skiing, they’re all things that sound incredibly fun but also require skill. Check out some of the top water sport destinations in the country where you can hone your current skills or learn a new activity. The Philippines is definitely the ideal place for exploring the wondrous world of water sport.
Getting to know the Philippine Outrigger Boat

The Philippine Outrigger boat started off as a fishing boat but over the decades, they have turned into the water taxis of the Philippines as well as the transportation of choice when island hopping. The unique design is reminiscent of a canoe and the magic trick is that while in operation the boat doesn’t disturb shallow coral reefs or animals swimming below.
Getting Hitched? Check out These Filipino Honeymoon Trip Ideas

One of the best parts about getting married is the fun and exotic honeymoon that follows the wedding. Thoughts of long summer days with beachy bliss epitomize many couples’ dream vacation. But where to start? The Philippines of course! So after you’ve walked down the aisle and dropped off the wedding presents at home, jump on a plane and live out one of these Filipino honeymoon fantasy vacations.
The Top Three Reasons Why You Need To Customize Your Philippine Vacation

When you’re traveling solo to the Philippines, it’s nice to join a group tour to make new friends and form lasting bonds with fellow traveling nomads. But when you’re traveling with a partner, with family or you’re a newly married couple, it might be best to book a custom trip so that you can tailor your trip to your specific needs and wants.
The Best Wet Season Destinations in the Philippines

Traveling in the Philippines during the off-season of June through November is actually advantageous as you won’t be fighting the crowds So to help you plan your nand can get good prices on hotels and resorts. So to help you plan your next vacation, we’ve curated the top three places that are must-visits for your off-season Philippine adventure.
Four of the Top Filipino Pastimes

Planning a Filipino adventure and need ideas on where to go to meet the locals? Look no further than this list of the top Filipino pastimes!
Solo Travelers Fear No More! Check Out These Tips on How to Adventure Affordably

Travel is by far one of the best things that life has to offer; unfortunately many travel companies cater to group travellers and if someone wishes to travel solo, the price automatically goes up. But don’t worry! Check out our tips and tricks below to help cut down costs on your solo vacation as well as have the time of your life.
Why are Filipinos So Happy?

People who have gone on a Philippine adventure or have toured the country know that Filipinos are a happy bunch. In a poll conducted by The Gallup International Association, the Philippines ranked the third happiest country in the world. So the big question is why are Filipinos so happy? Let’s take a look below to find out some reasons why.
The Deadly History of Mount Mayon Volcano

Majestic and beautifully symmetrical, Mount Mayon Volcano has been a favorite amongst hikers and mountain climbers in the Philippines for many years. It’s considered one of the most beautiful volcanoes in the world as the mountain is perfectly cone-shaped due to its history of eruptions. Mayon is also one of the deadliest volcanoes, with a history of killing thousands of people.
Why the Philippines Needs to be Your Winter Destination

Winter is far from over! If you’re still looking for the perfect tour to sun and sand the Philippines is the perfect place to go. Find out some of the reasons why a Philippine adventure is the perfect winter getaway.
An In-Depth look at the Philippines’ Ati-atihan Festival and the Feast of the Black Nazarene

January brings some of the best fiestas of the year in the Philippines and if you’re touring the country then, you don’t want to miss any of them! The best and brightest on offer are the Ati-atihan Festival and the Feast of the Black Nazarene. Find out more about these famous festivals.
A Vanishing Tribe: The Batak People of Palawan

There is only an estimated 450 Batak people left in Palawan, composed of approximately 50 family groups. That makes them the smallest of the indigenous groups in the region. You can experience the village and culture of the Batak people, and be part of the positive steps ensuring their survival.
How to Celebrate New Year's Like a Filipino

New Year’s is one of the best times to tour the Philippines because traveling in this unique country will put you in a fresh mindset for the year to come. Heed these three fun Filipino New Year’s traditions for your best New Year’s yet!
Examining the Origin of the Paról, the Filipino Christmas Star

Travelers who tour the Philippines during the Christmas season are sure to see the paról or lantern. Popping up on street corner light posts and in front of homes as early as September, these multi-colored lanterns with a five-point star represent the star of Bethlehem that The Three Wise Men followed to reach baby Jesus.
Dive into Two of the Philippines’ Top Comfort Foods

A tour of the Philippines is the best time to put your diet on a vacation as the best comfort dishes are always on offer for tasting. So put on a bib, pull up a chair and get ready to slurp, gulp and enjoy these fatty, rich and oh so comforting traditional Filipino dishes.
Three Fearsome Creatures of Philippine Legend

Mythology and monsters feature in nearly every culture around the world, and the Philippines is no exception, with stories of fantastical and frightening creatures. As you travel through unspoiled and wild destinations on an adventure tour with Uncharted Philippines, you might just hear tales of these three fearsome creatures of Philippine Legend.
Four Wonderfully Weird Philippine Sea Creatures

Scuba diving and snorkeling with Uncharted Philippines means you are sure to experience an under-the-sea adventure worthy of epic tales and amazing photographs. Some of the most colorful and fascinating marine life makes its home in the reefs and coastal waters of the Philippines. Here are four wonderfully weird Philippine sea creatures.
The Hornbill and Three Other Captivating Philippine Birds

If you're a birder or even if you just like birds, a Philippine tour should be at the top of your travel goals. There are 657 species of birds in the Philippines, 214 of which are endemic. Many birds of the Philippines are famous for their brilliant tropical colors and unique habits. Check out this list that includes the hornbill and three other captivating Philippine birds.
Four of the Most Dangerous and Fascinating Snakes of the Philippines

The Philippines is home to some of the most ecologically unique and fascinating wildlife on the planet. It’s no surprise that some of the most dangerous and fascinating snakes reside in the Philippines. Take a look at some of the reptile beauties on this list.
Maligayang Pasko! The Wonder of a Philippine Christmas

December is the start of the dry season in the Philippines and kicks off one of the best times to plan an epic vacation with Uncharted Philippines. However, December in the Philippines is also special because no people on earth do Christmas like the Filipino people. Prepare to be dazzled and amazed by all the exciting events you can experience during the holiday season.
The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Philippine Adventure

While there are plenty of single destination options in the Philippines, often travelers want to see as much of the country as possible, and that takes a certain trip strategy. When planning a multi-destination tour through the Philippines, there are definitely some tips for making the most of your adventure, and we have the ultimate guide.
Spelunking Adventure Awaits in the Hundred Caves of Tagabinet

Puerto Princesa is famous for its underground river, found 80 km north of the city, but it is also home to the “Hundred Caves” of Tagabinet. These caves are a colorful utopia for spelunkers (cave explorers) around the world.
Four of the Most Unusual Filipino Foods You Must Try

You can eat your way through Filipino cuisine on a Philippine tour and experience some of the most unusual and exciting foods found in Southeast Asia. Whether sampling a fertilized duck egg or fried crickets, you will have an opportunity to challenge your preconceived notions about what food is, and what constitutes a “delicacy” in another country.
Five Must Pack Items for Your Philippine Adventure

Traveling in the Philippines might leave you unprepared for the challenges of a different environment and ecosystem. Here is a list of 5 “must pack” items that will make your trip the Philippine adventure of a lifetime.
The Enchanting Puerto Princesa Subterranean River & National Park

Not many locations offer a sense of mystery like the Puerto Princesa subterranean river (commonly referred to as the Underground River), so perhaps this is why it is one of the country's most famous tour destinations and was named one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature in 2012. Located approximately 30 miles north of the city of Puerto Princesa (the capital of Palawan), this marvel of nature is a top destination for visitors to the Philippines.
Discover the Heart of the Coral Triangle: Tubbataha Reefs National Park

Stretching for 97,000 hectares in the Sulu Sea, Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is the premier scuba diving spot in the Philippines and one of the best in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the home to more than 600 species of fish, 360 species of coral, 11 species of shark, and hundreds of birds.
Experience Movie Magic at the Metro Manila Film Festival

The Philippines has a big movie industry and it is worth catching a Filipino movie during your tour of the country. Manila is home to one yearly festival that recognizes and awards the unique films created by Filipino Artists - the Metro Manila Film Festival.The beauty of unique perspective of the films showcased in the festival, along with the parade and award show, is an experience unlike any other.
Art, Excess, and Ghosts: Exploring the Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex

Have a free day in Manila during your Philippine tour? The Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex is a massive 220 acre complex along Manila Bay and Roxas Boulevard that is the home to several prominent arts and cultural centers of Metro Manila. There is plenty to see and exciting entertainment available for locals and tourists alike in the CCP Complex.
Three Marvelous Museums of Manila

There are dozens of museums in Manila to explore, but there are a few standouts that should be part of the tour itinerary of every traveler.
Fantastic Birds of the Babuyan Islands

North of Luzon Island is a small archipelago of smaller islands known as the Babuyan Islands. These lush paradises were created from the Luzon Volcanic Arc and have become an important ecological home for many species of plants, corals, fish, animals, and birds. In fact, bird watching is a must with these four fantastic birds roosting around the islands.
Five Thrist Quenching Drinks of the Philippines

The Philippines is the quintessential tropical tour destination, with some warm (very warm) months. Needless to say, creating and consuming cold and delicious drinks is practically a Filipino specialty. From fresh-squeezed fruit juices to chilly shakes, the Filipino people know how to quench your thirst. Here are five of the top “keep cool” drinks to try on your next visit.
Three Spectacular Snorkeling Sites in the Philippines

Warm tropical waters, spectacular coral reefs, and a variety of sea creatures make snorkeling in the Philippines one of the most popular tour activities for travelers. There are so many islands to explore it might take a lifetime, and each has something special to offer, so we have narrowed it down to three of the top destinations for snorkeling in the Philippines.
Celebrate Chinese New year Filipino Style

Chinese New Year in the Philippines? Yes, actually! Filipinos of Chinese heritage make up approximately 5% of the total population, and “Chinatowns” exists in several cities across the Philippines. This holiday and its celebrations can run as long as 15 days, and it’s the most important holiday for Chinese-Filipinos.
Four Delicious Filipino Street Foods

One of the best parts of traveling in the Philippines is having the chance to try all the local cuisine. The Philippines is a melting pot of cultures, and that is reflected in the origins of many dishes, and street food is one way to experience some of the country’s unique food offerings.
Four "Must Visit" Places in Manila

The capital city of the Philippines, Manila, is full of interesting and exciting tour opportunities. Founded in 1571, it is one of the oldest cities in the Philippines and is rich in history, heritage, and culture. Whether you want to explore old ruins, visit museums, shop, or participate in local customs, there is something for everyone.
Manila's spectacular pageant of pyrotechnics

If you are visiting Manila in February 2018 you are in luck because the skies over Manila Bay will burst with showers of color and light as the 9th Annual Philippine International Pyromusical Competition begins! This annual competition of fireworks displays, which began as a mere exhibition in 2004, will provide an opportunity for ten guest nations to compete on one of the world's most beautiful stages - Manila Bay.
Experience fire, water, and magic in Donsol

Donsol, one of the Philippines' best tour destinations, is a land of enchantment and offers opportunities to explore many wonders and breathtaking moments in nature. Some of the most exciting activities in this region give travelers an opportunity to experience fire, water, and magic in unforgettable ways.
A confectionary smorgasbord: Four Filipino sweet treats to try

Filipino desserts are a confectionery smorgasbord that should not be missed on your trip to the Philippines! Like most of the food you can find in the country, many of the desserts come from a variety of origins and cultures, and this creates a unique experience of flavors. Check out four desserts of the Philippines you should definitely try.
Four amazing things to see at Taal Lake and Volcano

In the province of Batangas, on the island of Luzon, lies one of the most unique and beautiful tourist destinations in the Philippines - Taal Lake. Inside Taal Lake lies an island called Volcano Island, and on that island is Taal Volcano, the world's smallest active volcano.
Season of blooming: Discovering Baguio's Panagbenga Festival

The Panagbenga Festival, also called the Baguio Flower Festival, is a month-long celebration of everything floral and is worth including in your Philippine tour planning. Panagbenga is an indigenous Kankana-ey word which means "Season of Blooming," and the spirit of the city has blossomed along with the festival, soon to be celebrating its 23rd year.
Four must-see attractions in Manila's Intramuros

Intramuros, a remnant of Spanish Colonialism and a historic district within Manila, is a must-see for anyone on a tour of the Philippines. This stone-walled, former fortress was the center of political and military power, and is one of the most important historical locations in Manila.
Three Filipino breakfasts you must try

Filipinos take breakfast seriously, and so should you when you're on your Philippine tour. Breakfast in the Philippines can be hearty and savory, or light and sweet, or anything in between. Whatever your breakfast preference, one of these three popular dishes is sure to hit the spot, and can be easily found in restaurants, cafes, bakeries, and homes.
Three of the most stunning butterflies of the Philippines

The Philippines is a haven for butterflies and it is virtually impossible to tour the country without seeing some beautiful specimens. Delicate and a symbol of hope, there’s an alien, other-worldly quality to these colorful flutterers. So below we take a closer look at some of the Philippines' most stunning arthropods that will be sure to brighten up your day.
Checking out the strangest mammals in the Philippines

Animals are a big part of any nature trip or ecotour in the Philippines. Chances are you already know about the wondrous world of marine biodiversity in the Philippines. But what about the animals on land? They are equally enchanting, fascinating and of course completely unique. Below is a list of some of the most eye-catching mammals that call the Philippines home.
Diving into Coron's top three hidden lagoons and lakes

People travel to Palawan for its beaches but the real highlight of a Coron adventure is a trip to its lagoons. Below are three of the top lagoons and lakes in the Coron area that each provide a one-of-a-kind experience that you won't want to miss.
The top three most fascinating lizards of the Philippines

The Philippines is a herp enthusiast's dream vacation destination. As a well-known hot spot for biodiversity, the country has many amazing endemic creatures that call the Islands home. Below are three of the top lizards that are showstoppers in the rain forests. Some are big, some are small but all are equally exciting to spot on your custom Philippine tour.
The four essential must-visit places in Palawan

Make sure to put these four must-visit places at the top of your Palawan tour list or else you will truly miss out.
Four of the top Filipino birds you must see

The Philippines is home to some of the world's most beautiful birds and you might just see some during your Philippine trip.
The top three waterfalls of Sagada

Ready to go chasing waterfalls on your Sagada tour? Of course you are! That's why we’ve curated this list of the top three waterfalls in the area so whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a light stroller, you've got a road map to your next waterfall adventure.
Three things you didn't know about the Banaue Rice Terraces

A tour of the Banaue rice terraces is a must-do for many people visiting the Philippines. Known in pop culture as the 8th Wonder of the World and recognized as the oldest rice terraces in the planet, this site is truly impressive. Here are three things you might not know about these magnificent terraces.
Discovering three of the Philippines' top hikes

Going on a hiking tour is a strenuous and rewarding trip in itself but when you tackle the Philippines, it's a whole new experience. Below are some of the top hiking destinations available throughout this beautiful Southeast Asian country along with some helpful tips and tricks to help you have a successful, memorable experience.
Q&A: The ladies behind the Palawan beer revolution

When you think of touring Palawan, images of pristine waters and mesmerising wildlife come to mind - not visions of a killer beer scene. But the ladies at Palaweño Brewery are changing this as they usher in the beginning of the craft beer industry in the Philippines' last frontier.
Four of the deadliest sea creatures of the Philippines

When on your diving or snorkeling tour in the Philippines you're rarely on guard as you're soaking in the beauty of the gorgeous marine life. But these four creatures, all of which are abundant throughout the country, will give you a reason to be extra careful during your underwater adventure.
The top 4 Philippine diving destinations that will take your breath away

The Philippines is at the top of every diver's list for a scuba diving vacation. Dubbed as the leader in marine biodiversity, there are many diving locations around this archipelago and sometimes it can be difficult to know where to start. Here, we list the top four diving locations in the Philippines and what makes each hot spot special.
Getting to know three Cordillera caves

The Cordillera region, filled with history, lore and treasures from the past, should be part of any traveler's tour of the Philippines. Listed below are four fascinating caves in this region that will take you back in time as well as get you likes on your Instagram feed.
Bogsbrew veteran brewmaster talks Filipino craft beer scene

If you enjoy your booze, you won't go thirsty on a tour in the Philippines. Beer is abundant and in recent years craft beer has become easily available. But before craft breweries started popping up in the Philippines on the regular, there was one brewer there from the very beginning, Felix Emilio Hagad of Bogsbrew Brewery in Negros Island.
The Top Three Waterfalls of Laguna Province

If you love waterfalls, a tour to Laguna in the Philippines is a must-do. Located just south of Manila, the Laguna Province in Luzon has some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country. Created by Laguna de Bay, the largest lake in the country, these various waterfalls each create a beautiful cascade down rocks and lush green vegetation.
Turning Wheels brewery leads craft beer industry in Cebu

Craft beer is not top of mind when it comes to a tour in the Philippines but the country is catching up and building their very own delectable brewing scene. Brewers like Michael Nikkel, founder of Turning Wheels brewery based in Cebu, are making waves with their craft offerings.
The top four strangest, most interesting sea creatures of the Philippines

If you’re on a diving tour in the Philippines, you may come face-to-face with your very own freak show while gliding through the reefs in search of Dori. Here, we prepare you for your adventure with our list of the top four weird and strange marine creatures of the Philippines.
Top four Filipino foods you must try before you die

Food is one of the highlights of any tour in the Philippines. Below, we list the top four Filipino dishes that you must try at least once in your life.
Three of the top Filipino goods to get your hands on

Aside from seeing the sights, one of the best parts of touring the Philippines is getting your hands on the unique crafts and goods that the country offers to visitors. These are three regional treasures of the Philippines that visitors should definitely snag before heading back home.
The Banaue Rice Terraces: Visiting the Eighth Wonder of the World

A tour of Banaue in the Philippines is not only a great adventure trip but also a lesson in sustainability. Carved into the hills over 2,000 years ago by indigenous Filipino tribes, these working rice fields provide the primary rice crop to many local vendors. Aside from being named one of the Eighth Wonders of the World, historians look to the rice fields as a beautiful example of how humankind and nature can both flourish under the right design.
Discovering the Sagada hanging coffins and indigenous burial traditions

Serene, eerie and fascinating, the hanging coffins of Sagada are a unique Philippine tour destination. Hung from cliffs, these vibrantly colored caskets offer visitors a peek into over 200 years of history and local tradition.
Diving the Philippines? Discover a jewel of marine biodiversity

There's a reason why a diving trip in the Philippines is on every diver's bucket list. Although there are many dive sites around the world that offer breathtaking marine life, diving in the Philippines elevates the underwater experience to a whole new level.
Les 6 premiers plats exotiques dans le menu d'Uncharted Philippines

Cultural immersion is an important part of every Uncharted Philippines adventure. And since food is one of the most significant cultural expressions, we consider it our duty to give our guests a true culinary adventure. Here are six of the best dishes on our adventure menu.
Babuyan Islands: Reconned

After two trip postponements due to bad weather, the Uncharted Philippines Adventure Team finally pushes through with its reconnaissance of the Babuyan Islands. These are the daily accounts of our (mis)adventures.
Fermeture du cratère à Taal est justifiée

On March 21, 2011, Uncharted Philippines canceled its Taal Volcano: Overnight in Inferno tour due to a new local government regulation that prohibited entry into the crater. At the time, Taal's volcanic activity had not increased from previous months and there seemed to be no valid reason for the crater closure. Three weeks later, however, the authorities are proven correct.
Le seul rayonnement que vous aurez aux Philippines est du soleil

Immediately after the Japan tsunami disaster, rumors of nuclear radiation reaching Philippine shores began making the rounds in Manila. Local alarmists had a field day and pranksters must have gotten quite a kick from seeing people dabbing iodine on their necks and wearing lead weights like jewelry.
Palawan : La meilleure combinaison d'aventure et de loisirs

"I like beaches, but if I have a choice between them and mountains, I choose the latter". This was my way of thinking before I went to Palawan. Now I know there is a place where being beside the sea does not imply simply sun bathing and rest.
Sagada : La rencontre la plus intime avec les Philippines

The adventure was magical from the start. We awoke surrounded by mountains covered with a fine layer of mist, on one side the moon as a witness and on the other the sun slowly rising to light up a new day. In so little time from leaving Banaue I was amidst the most beautiful landscape: rice terraces, shining under the sun, within green mountains that seemingly had no end.
Lubang : Une île de surprises

The beaches of Lubang Island were amazing. Yes, their coral reefs were good for skin diving, but even if I kept my head above the water I would have been fulfilled. The landscape created by rocks and cliffs contrasting with sand was spectacular. I explored rock formations and discovered wave-beaten caves and hidden pools filled with colorful fish. Again I wondered, and relished, how such a place could be so unknown.
Babuyan Islands recon: Take two

This is THE Uncharted adventure. We need to do explore this place NOW. The Babuyan Islands, unglamorously named as they are (babuyan is Tagalog for piggery), will be Uncharted Philippines's feature adventure.