Pampanga - Discovering Philippines

Travelling to Pampanga

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Pampanga, 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 Pampanga 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 Pampanga, 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 Pampanga for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Pampanga

Pampanga is a province located in the central part of Luzon Island in the Philippines. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, and beautiful natural landscapes. The capital city of Pampanga is San Fernando, which is also home to the famous Giant Lantern Festival held every December. The province is also known for its vibrant nightlife, as well as its numerous historical sites and landmarks such as the Mt. Pinatubo crater and Kapampangan Museum. Pampanga is easily accessible from Manila and other nearby provinces through major highways and transport hubs.

What to visit in Pampanga

1. Mount Pinatubo - An active volcano in the Cabusilan Mountains that last erupted in 1991. Trekking towards the volcano offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape and the turquoise waters of Crater Lake.
2. San Agustin Church - A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the oldest stone churches in the Philippines, built in 1576. It bears witness to the Spanish colonization of the country.
3. Nayong Pilipino Clark - This theme park features replicas of Philippine landmarks and festivals, allowing visitors to experience the culture and traditions of the country without having to travel throughout the archipelago.
4. Puning Hot Springs - These natural hot springs are nestled amidst a mountainous terrain that offers stunning views and are located within the Mount Pinatubo Crater. Visitors can bathe in warm, sulfuric waters that are believed to have healing properties.
5. Holy Rosary Parish Church - Known as the "Sistine Chapel of the Philippines," this church features a ceiling painted with intricate frescoes that are considered one of the finest in the country.
6. Dinosaurs Island - This park houses life-sized replicas of dinosaurs, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in a prehistoric world.
7. Paskuhan Village - This Christmas-themed park offers a dazzling display of lanterns, intricate Christmas lights, and festive decorations.
8. Museum of Philippine Economic History - This museum showcases the economic history of the Philippines, from prehistoric times to modern-day.
9. Clark Airbase - The former US military base has been transformed into a commercial, aviation, and leisure hub, offering various recreational activities, including golf, shopping, and dining.
10. Sandbox - An adventure park featuring outdoor activities such as ziplining, riding a giant swing, and wall climbing. It's perfect for adrenaline junkies who love extreme sports.
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.

When to go on holiday to Pampanga

The best time to go on holiday to Pampanga is during the dry season which lasts from November to April. The weather during this time tends to be cooler and drier, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the area. However, it is important to note that this is also the peak season for tourism, so it is advisable to book accommodation and activities in advance. May to October is the rainy season in Pampanga, which may limit outdoor activities, but can still be enjoyed if you don't mind some occasional rain.

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

How to get to Pampanga

There are several ways to get to Pampanga: 1. By Air: The Clark International Airport in Pampanga is the closest airport and is easily accessible from Manila. There are several airlines that offer flights from Manila to Clark.
2. By Bus: There are several bus companies that operate from Manila to Pampanga. Some of the popular ones include Victory Liner, Genesis Transport, and Five Star Bus. The trip takes around 1-2 hours depending on traffic.
3. By Private Car: You can also drive to Pampanga from Manila. Take the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and exit at the San Fernando, Angeles, or Dau tollgate.
4. By Train: The PNR (Philippine National Railways) also operates a train service from Manila to Pampanga. However, this may not be the most practical option as there are only a few trips a day and the travel time is longer than other modes of transport.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Pampanga, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Pampanga

Pampanga is known as the Culinary Capital of the Philippines, famous for its unique and savory dishes. Here are some typical foods of Pampanga with short descriptions: 1. Sisig - This dish is made of boiled and grilled pig's ears, head, liver, and other parts, mixed with onions, chili peppers, and vinegar. It is usually served sizzling hot and often accompanied with beer. 2. Bringhe - This dish is similar to paella, but instead of using saffron, it is colored and flavored with turmeric. The sticky rice is mixed with coconut milk, chicken, chorizo, peas, and other seasonings. 3. Tocino - This is sweet and savory cured meat made from pork or beef, usually served during breakfast. It is often paired with garlic rice and egg. 4. Betute - This dish is made of stuffed frogs with ground pork, onions, and other spices, usually deep-fried. It is a unique and exotic delicacy. 5. Burong Dalag - This is a fermented fish dish where dalag (mudfish) is mixed with rice and salt, and kept in a jar for a few days until it ferments. It is a perfect accompaniment for grilled pork or fried fish. 6. Kari-Kari - This is a stew made of oxtail, beef tripe, and vegetables cooked in a peanut sauce. It is usually served with rice and bagoong (shrimp paste). 7. Kapampangan Tamales - This is a rice cake dish made of glutinous rice mixed with chicken, pork, or both, peas, and other spices. It is wrapped in banana leaves and steamed until cooked. 8. Kaldereta - This is a hearty meat stew made of beef or goat's meat, potatoes, carrots, and other vegetables cooked in tomato sauce. It is usually served with rice. 9. Mamon - This is a soft and fluffy sponge cake that comes in different flavors such as cheese, butter, or ube. It is a popular snack or dessert. 10. Adobo - This is a savory and tangy dish made of chicken or pork marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and other spices. It is a classic Filipino dish that can be found in any region of the Philippines, but it has a unique Kapampangan twist.
You can find general info about typical foods in Philippines here.

Is Pampanga an expensive destination for tourists?

Pampanga, Philippines can be considered as a mid-range destination for tourists. It offers a variety of experiences for different budgets. However, compared to other popular tourist destinations in the Philippines, the cost of travel, accommodations, and activities in Pampanga may be slightly higher.
The cost of accommodations in Pampanga ranges from budget hotels to luxury resorts. Budget hotels start at around $20 USD per night, while high-end resorts can cost up to $200 USD per night or more. Activities such as food tours, cultural tours, and outdoor adventures are also available for different budgets.
Overall, while Pampanga is not the cheapest destination in the Philippines, it still offers good value for money and a unique experience for tourists who are interested in exploring the region's rich history and culture.

Where to find accomodation in Pampanga

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Pampanga, Philippines are Angeles City, Clark Freeport Zone, and San Fernando. These areas offer easy access to popular tourist destinations like Mount Pinatubo, Nayong Pilipino Clark, and Dinosaurs Island. They also have a variety of accommodation types from budget-friendly lodgings to luxurious resorts. Additionally, these areas have plenty of restaurants, bars, and entertainment options to keep visitors entertained throughout their stay.
You can check hotel prices at Pampanga here:
Booking.com

Is Pampanga a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Pampanga is considered a safe place for tourists. While every place has its own risks and safety concerns, Pampanga is generally safe for tourists as long as they exercise common sense and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. It is always advisable to stay in well-lit areas, avoid walking alone at night, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables. Additionally, it's best to research and follow local customs and laws to avoid any misunderstandings or potential problems.
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 Pampanga.

What type of travelers will enjoy Pampanga the most?

Pampanga offers a variety of activities to suit different types of travelers. Couples may enjoy exploring historical sites such as the San Guillermo Parish Church or indulging in Pampanga's famous cuisine. There are also various nature parks, hiking trails, and hot springs that cater to families and nature enthusiasts. Young people looking for fun may enjoy the vibrant nightlife scene in Angeles City or adrenaline-pumping activities such as ziplining and ATV riding. In conclusion, Pampanga can be a great destination for various types of travelers depending on their interests.

How to get around Pampanga

There are several transportation options to move around Pampanga, Philippines, including tricycles, jeepneys, and buses. Tricycles are the most common mode of transportation in Pampanga, as they are small, motorized vehicles that can accommodate about 2-3 passengers. Jeepneys, on the other hand, are bigger and more crowded, but they follow specific routes and are more affordable. Buses are also an option and are recommended for long-distance travel to other provinces.

What to see around Pampanga

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Pampanga: 1. Mount Pinatubo - a popular hiking spot with a stunning crater lake 2. Sandbox at Alviera - an adventure park with activities like ziplining, ATV riding, and more 3. Nayong Pilipino Clark - a cultural park showcasing the country's traditions and heritage 4. Puning Hot Springs - a relaxing resort with natural hot springs and spa services 5. Farm to Table - an organic farm with a farm-to-table restaurant and garden tours 6. Dinosaurs Island - an amusement park with life-size animatronic dinosaurs 7. El Kabayo Riding Stables - a ranch with horseback riding tours and a Western-style town 8. The Pradera Wakeboard Park - a water sports park with wakeboarding and other activities 9. Clark Museum and 4D Theater - a museum with an immersive 4D theater experience showcasing the history of Clark Airbase.
10. Inflatable Island - an inflatable obstacle course on water located in Subic Bay. I hope this list helps you plan your trip!
For every travel information about Philippines you can click here.

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