Albay - Discovering Philippines

Travelling to Albay

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Albay, a pretty good destination in Philippines (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Albay and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Albay, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Philippines, here's everything to know about Albay for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Albay

Albay is a province located in the Bicol region of the Philippines. It is known for its scenic beauty, particularly the Mayon Volcano, which is considered to be one of the most active and picturesque volcanoes in the world. The province is also home to several beaches, waterfalls, hot springs, and historical landmarks. Its capital city is Legazpi, which is a thriving hub for business, tourism, and education in the region. The local cuisine in Albay is also noteworthy, with popular dishes such as laing (taro leaves cooked in coconut milk and spices) and Bicol Express (pork cooked in spicy coconut milk) being enjoyed both by locals and visitors.

What to visit in Albay

1. Mayon Volcano - Mayon Volcano is one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines and has a near-perfect cone. Visitors can hike or ride an ATV to the base of the volcano to see the impressive structure up close. 2. Cagsawa Ruins - The Cagsawa Ruins are the remnants of a 16th-century church that was destroyed during a major volcanic eruption. The ruins are a popular tourist spot due to its beautiful views of Mayon Volcano and the surrounding area.
3. Lignon Hill Nature Park - Lignon Hill offers panoramic views of Albay and Mayon Volcano. The park offers different activities such as ziplining, rappelling, and hiking, making it a great spot for adventure seekers.
4. Quitinday Green Hills Formation - The Quitinday Hills is a unique karst formation composed of green hills that offer a breathtaking view of a vast sea of clouds. 5. Sumlang Lake - Sumlang Lake is a serene lake located in the town of Camalig. Visitors can take a boat ride across the lake while enjoying the view of the local wildlife.
6. Albay Park and Wildlife - Albay Park and Wildlife is a recreational park that features many animals and scenic spots. The park also serves as a sanctuary for injured wildlife that can be seen within the premises. 7. Daraga Church - The Daraga Church is a Spanish-era church located on top of a hill with a stunning view of Mayon Volcano and the surrounding area. 8. Hoyop-Hoyopan Cave - The Hoyop-Hoyopan Cave is one of the most popular caves in Albay Province, known for its unique stalactite and stalagmite formations. 9. Sumlang Lake Floating Cottage - Visitors can rent a floating cottage and spend a relaxing day on the lake while enjoying the beautiful scenery. 10. Vera Falls - Vera falls is a picturesque waterfall located in Malinao, Albay. Visitors can trek through the lush forest and enjoy the cool refreshing water of the falls.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Philippines, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Albay.

When to go on holiday to Albay

The best time to go on holiday to Albay in the Philippines is during the dry season which runs from November to May. This is the perfect time to enjoy the beautiful beaches and outdoor activities in the region. The weather is generally sunny and dry, with a pleasant temperature range of 22-32°C. However, it is worth noting that the months of April and May can be very hot and humid. The rainy season from June to October is best avoided as there is a high risk of typhoons and flooding in the area.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Albay

Albay is located in the Bicol Region of the Philippines. To get there, you can either take a flight or a bus.
By Flight: The nearest airport is Legazpi International Airport, which is located in Legazpi City, Albay. Several airlines offer flights from Manila to Legazpi City. You can book a flight from Manila to Legazpi through Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, or AirAsia.
By Bus: Several bus companies have daily trips from Manila to Albay. You can take a bus from Cubao, Pasay, or Alabang Bus Terminal. Buses are available 24/7, and travel time is approximately 12 hours. Some of the most popular bus lines include Cagsawa, DLTB, and Philtranco.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Albay. Safe travels!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Albay, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Albay

Albay is well-known for its spicy and flavorful dishes, and here are some of the most popular foods in the region: 1. Bicol Express - This is a spicy stew made with pork, coconut milk, shrimp paste, and plenty of chili peppers. It's usually served as a main dish and is best eaten with steamed rice.
2. Pinangat - This is a type of Bicolano dish that's made with taro leaves stuffed with a mixture of pork, shrimp, and chili peppers. It's then cooked in coconut milk and typically served with steamed rice.
3. Laing - This is a dish of dried taro leaves cooked in coconut milk and seasoned with garlic, ginger, and chili peppers. It's often served as a side dish and is a favorite among locals.
4. Kinunot - This dish is made with shredded meat (usually shark or stingray) cooked in coconut milk and seasoned with chili peppers, ginger, and garlic. It's often served with grated coconut and steamed rice.
5. Pinangat na Isda - This dish features fish (usually mackerel or tulingan) simmered in vinegar, garlic, ginger, and chili peppers. The fish is wrapped in taro leaves and then steamed to infuse all the flavors.
6. Sili Ice Cream - This unique dessert is made with chili peppers and a sweet, creamy base. The result is a surprisingly delicious and refreshing treat that's perfect for cooling off after a spicy meal.
You can find general info about typical foods in Philippines here.

Is Albay an expensive destination for tourists?

No, Albay in the Philippines is generally an affordable destination for tourists. Prices for accommodation, food, and transportation are reasonable and can fit any budget. However, the cost can vary depending on the specific activities and attractions you want to experience. For example, trekking to the Mayon Volcano may require a guide and fees for entrance to the national park. But overall, Albay is not considered an expensive destination compared to other popular tourist spots in the Philippines.

Where to find accomodation in Albay

In Albay, the best areas to find accommodation to visit the attractions are Legazpi City and Donsol. Legazpi City is the capital of Albay and has many hotels, restaurants, and shops. It is the gateway to the famous Mayon Volcano and is also close to other attractions such as the Cagsawa Ruins, Lignon Hill, and the Embarcadero de Legazpi. Donsol, on the other hand, is known for being the whale shark capital of the Philippines and offers a range of accommodations, including hotels, resorts, and budget-friendly guesthouses.
You can check hotel prices at Albay here:
Booking.com

Is Albay a safe destination for tourists?

Albay is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, like any other place, it is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings especially when exploring unfamiliar areas. It is recommended that tourists should always take extra precautions such as not leaving valuables unattended, avoiding walking alone in secluded areas at night, and following the local laws and customs. It is also advisable to seek advice from tourist information centers or certified tour operators before embarking on any adventure or activities.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Philippines here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Albay.

What type of travelers will enjoy Albay the most?

Albay can be enjoyed by all types of travelers, however, each group may have different preferences and activities. Couples may enjoy the scenic views of Mount Mayon, go on a romantic dinner cruise, or take a dip in the hot springs. Young people may find the active nightlife, water sports, and adventure activities such as hiking, ATV rides, and zip-lining more appealing.
Families may enjoy visiting the Cagsawa Ruins Park, exploring nature parks, and trying out local delicacies. Overall, Albay offers a wide range of activities and attractions that can satisfy different types of travelers.

How to get around Albay

In Albay (Philippines), the most common mode of transportation is the tricycle—a motorized vehicle with a sidecar that can carry up to three passengers. Other options include jeepneys, buses, and vans for hire. Taxis are available in the city center and in popular tourist spots. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also rent a motorcycle or bike to explore the area.

What to see around Albay

Here are some nice places you can visit in a day trip from Albay: 1. Cagsawa Ruins Park - a historic park that features the remains of a 16th-century Spanish church that was buried during a volcanic eruption in 1814.
2. Mayon Volcano National Park - a scenic park that offers some of the best views of the perfectly shaped Mayon Volcano.
3. Ligñon Hill Nature Park - a nature park that features a viewing deck with panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
4. Vera Falls - a serene waterfall located in the town of Malilipot that is surrounded by lush forests.
5. Sumlang Lake - a tranquil lake located in the town of Camalig that offers beautiful views of Mayon Volcano.
6. Quitinday Green Hills - an eco-tourism site located in the town of Camalig that offers stunning views of rolling green hills.
7. Our Lady of the Gate Parish Church - a historic church located in the town of Daraga that features beautiful Spanish-inspired architecture.
8. Hoyop-Hoyopan Cave - a unique cave located in the town of Camalig that features intricate limestone formations and underground pools.
9. Busay Falls - a scenic waterfall located in the town of Malilipot that is surrounded by lush forests.
10. Joroan Church - a historic church located in the town of Tiwi that is known for its beautiful Romanesque architecture.
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