Best Places to Go Camping in the Philippines

Camping is a nature-lover's dream. There's nothing better than setting up your tent, putting up your feet and relaxing amidst the tranquility of nature. It also has the added advantage of being more affordable than staying at a hotel.

The Philippines is one country that's perfect for camping. The archipelago is renowned for its beaches and mountains, all of which are accessible to hardy backpackers. And with the majority of its citizens proficient in English, you'll have no trouble communicating with the locals. So start making your camping checklist and read on to find out the best places to go camping in the Philippines.

1. Calaguas, Camarines Norte

Calaguas shot to fame when the producers of Survivor discovered this quiet, little paradise. Visitors to this gorgeous island will immediately see why it's one of the best places to go camping. Calaguas' clear, azure water and soft, powdery sand are incentive enough to stay a few hours. But come night time, and the stars are out, and you'll understand why people love staying on the island for several nights.

The island is 10 hours away from Manila and visitors planning to go to Calaguas have several options open to them. You can avail of the packaged tours being offered and simply enjoy the trip with minimum fuss, or you can do DIY and explore the island at your leisure.

2. Mount Pinatubo

Mount Pinatubo is a well-known trekking and camping site in Luzon. Pinatubo is an active volcano that gained notoriety when it erupted in 1991. While it was destructive and caused several towns to disappear from the map, it also resulted in an unforgettable landscape of hardened lahar that's now being enjoyed by numerous adventurers.

There are a lot of things to enjoy in Mount Pinatubo. The most popular would be the 4x4 rides on 20-meter sand dunes or hiking up the mountain to catch a glimpse of the mountain's crater lake.

3. Mount Pulag, Benguet

Hardcore hikers would definitely love trekking to Mount Pulag in Benguet. Mount Pulag bears the distinction of having the highest peak in Luzon, as evidenced by the sea of wispy clouds that will surround you once you reached its summit.

There are several base camps located in Pulag where trekkers can pitch their tents and breathe in the crisp and usually cold air. The mountain's lush vegetation and the quiet air are perfect for clearing your mind. But for safety purposes, always go up Mount Pulag with an experienced guide. The mountain has already taken its fair share of mountaineers and adventurers.

4. Nagsasa Cove, Zambales

Nagsasa Cove is one of the best places to camp overnight in the Philippines, especially for those who want to get away from it all. Located in Zambales, the island is known for its warm, blue waters, silvery sand, and the agoho trees that make the place look like it's from another world. This otherworldly vibe was the result of Mt Pinatubo's destructive power. But from the mountain's literal ashes rose several coves and beaches lined with ashy-white sand.

Nagsasa island also doesn't have electricity and has no cellular signal. So camping in the cove means saying goodbye to text messages and the internet. But that's a small price to pay for the joy of trekking, swimming, snorkeling, and exploring Nagsasa and the neighboring islands.

5. Aetas Glamping El Nido, Palawan

While roughing it up for a few days is fun for a lot of people, there are others who prefer a more urbane camping experience. If you're one of those who would rather forego the rusticity of Nagsasa or Anawangin Cove for something more comfortable and cozier, Aetas Glamping El Nido is perfect for you.

Glamping it up in this location serves a twofold purpose. You get to go camping with full amenities while learning about Filipino culture. Every tent and interior in the campsite is designed by local artists and the neighborhood residents are on-hand to help make your stay memorable. With the camp site located on a hill, you're guaranteed a prime view of the beauty of Palawan, all while indulging with the country's famous sweets.

If you want to experience glamping Filipino-style, be prepared to stay at least two nights in the campsite. You're guaranteed for breakfast, a private shower, handmade bathing amenities, as well as pickup and drop off during your time at Aetas Glamping.

Conclusion

Camping is one of the best ways to experience the outdoors, the way it should be enjoyed – with a minimum of fuss and a multitude of awe. Plus, camping is not limited to just national parks or forests. In the Philippines, some of the best campsites are on top of mountains or beside the beach. These sites are accessible and safe, the locals are friendly, and there is a multitude of activities to be enjoyed. So if you're looking for something different, the Philippines definitely has what you're looking for.