Backpacking Bicol: Beyond the Volcano
Explore the stunning countryside of the Bicol region. Located in the southernmost tip of Luzon, the largest island in the Philippine archipelago. Here’s a backpacking Bicol itinerary to help you organize your trip!
Camarines Sur
Begin your journey by traveling to Naga City, known as the ‘Heart of Bicol’’. It’s a 6-hour drive from Metro Manila, or you can opt for a 30-minute flight. Discover its historical churches, museums, and national parks. After your tour, go island-hopping in Caramoan and unwind for a few days.
Destinations: Naga Metropolitan Cathedral, St. Anthony of Padua Parish Church, Museo del Seminario Conciliar de Nueva Caceres, Mt. Isarog National Park, Naga Ecological Park, CamSur Watersports Complex and Matukad Island, Lahos Island, Cagbalinad Island in Caramoan.
Albay
Before reaching the province of Albay, you’ll pass through several towns. Don’t miss the chance to stop in Bato and try their famous Pancit Bato. Further along, you’ll pass through Camalig, famous for their Pinangat or laing. Once you arrive in the Old Albay District, treat yourself to specialties like sili ice cream, pili ice cream, and pili pie! If you like street food, this place is heaven. Just say the words “hepa street,” and they’ll point you there.
The majestic Mayon Volcano is undoubtedly the star of backpacking Bicol. Aside from the usual Cagsawa Ruins, you can also get a different perspective of the volcano from the Skyline View Deck. In Albay, there’s no shortage of exciting activities to add to your itinerary.
Activities: ATV ride to Mayon Volcano Lava Wall, trek at Mt. Masaraga, hike in Quitinday Hills, paddle at Sumlang Lake, dip in the Jovellar Underground River, chill at Legazpi Boulevard, and catch a live indie band in the local bars!
Sorsogon
Head south to Donsol, a laid-back town known for whale sharks. It’s just an hour’s drive from Legazpi. Join a guided tour to swim alongside these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Then explore the nearby white-sand islands in Pilar, located right beside Donsol. After island hopping, don’t forget to try this town’s famous dishes: Kinunot na Pagi, Tinutungang Manok, Gulay na Apay, or their version of laing, and Gulay na Langka. There is also a family-operated fish farm where you can catch and cook your own lunch!
Continue your journey to the tip of Sorsogon, where you will find the most beautiful beach in Bicol: Subic Beach, Matnog! But keep in mind that there are plenty more beaches and islands in this province, and they are not to be missed.
Activities: Visit the Coral Church of Barcelona, see the WWII Japanese Tunnels in Bulan, explore Mt. Bulusan and Lake Bulusan, surf in Gubat, take a dip in the Hot and Cold Springs of Irosin, see the Old Houses of Juban, swim at the beaches of Santa Magdalena, spelunk in the caves of Prieto Diaz, and finally, go island hopping in Matnog! The southernmost tip of Luzon!
READ: Bicol Shortcut: Cut Travel Time with this Route
Seven days are not enough to explore this beautiful region. We’ve only covered three provinces. Watch out for more on backpacking Bicol. The adventure never ends! Also… the Bicol Express recipe varies from town to town. You can try and rate them all!
