The beaches are not the only places to have fun in the Philippines. You also explore some of the country's centuries-old underground bat caves. Not only will you enjoy the physical challenge of climbing and hiking through these caves, you will also be able to take some photos of the amazing rock formations.
Here are our top 5 picks:
#1 - Sumaging Cave (Mountain Province, Sagada): Also called the Big Cave, one will be astonished to see its enormous chambers and sublime rock formations such as the “King’s Curtain”, “Rice Granny”, “Cauliflower”, and “Dancing Hall”. Brace yourself, by the way, for the small passage called “The Tunnel”, which is the highlight of your caving here, requiring your limbo-like motion to be able to go through it. Don’t you worry though as your superb cave guide will assist you expertly in the entire journey.
#2 - Sohoton Cave (Samar Island): As you can see, bats are a bit spooky; However, we only live once, so, go right ahead – and explore some more! Don’t forget to add to your adventure a visit to Sohoton Cave in Eastern Samar. As a dripstone cave, it has very different rock formations and an enchanting landscape. Perfect for all those who love rock climbing, trekking and even rock collecting, Sohotan Cave, promises to be an extremely rewarding experience.
#3 - Callao Caves (Cagayan Valley): Celebrated as one of the most popular tourist destinations in Cagayan Valley, Callao Caves can be found within the Penablanca Protected Landscape in this province. Each of its chambers receives natural sunlight through the crevices, thus the visibility inside is good without the aid of lamps or flashlight. Do catch a glimpse of the millions of red-billed Kalaw birds and bats that pour out of the Bat’s Cave at dusk.
#4 - Palawan's Bat Cave (Palawan): Also known as St. Paul Subterranean River, Palawan Underground River is famous for being the 3rd deepest cave in the Philippines, and measures 15 kilometers long—thus becoming a UNESCO Heritage site. You and your group will definitely find the long boat ride here, memorable, amidst the view of monitor lizards, swinging monkeys, a Dangkalan tree, beautiful stalactite and stalagmite formations; in addition to the throng of bats… watch out for their poops though! LOL
#5 - Monfort Bat Sanctuary (Samal Island): Awaken the batman spirit in you even further, by going on a trip to Monfort Bat Cave. Located on Samal Island, about 1 kilometer east of Davao City, this incomparable cave houses the largest single colony of Rousette fruit bats in the world, with a breathtaking population of 1.8 million. It has thus become part of the Guinness Book of World Records.
