Cover The entrance of the Langun-Gobingob Cave System (Photo: Kelvin Samar)
The entrance of the Langun-Gobingob Cave System (Photo: Kelvin Samar)
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From Quirino to Samar, these caves offer breathtaking sights for spelunkers of all levels
The Philippines is often renowned for its white sand beaches and majestic mountains, but beneath all our foliage lies stunning and expansive cave systems that demand exploration. Spelunking, while physically challenging, is a great way to see the great natural indoors of the Earth.
From picturesque expeditions to beginner-friendly treks and intimidating caverns, Tatler lists five caves you should explore for the summer. Fair warning, however, as some of these caves might test your courage.
More from Tatler: 5 road trip destinations near Metro Manila for Holy Week 2025
Crystal Cove, Boracay
Situated off the coast of Boracay, Crystal Cove Island is a great introduction to spelunking. Two caves can be explored, with the first one providing access without the need for swimming. The second cave—depending on the tide—requires spelunkers to plunge into the island’s blue waters to reach a beautiful natural pool that leads into the ocean.
Bukilat Cave, Cebu
Above Inside the Bukilat Cave in Cebu (Photo: Flickr/dbgg1979)
Inside the Bukilat Cave in Cebu (Photo: Flickr/dbgg1979)
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A secluded cave nestled in the far reaches of the Camotes Islands, the Bukilat Cave is for the introverted traveller. Upon entering the cave, you’ll be greeted by an expansive chamber filled with water, stalagmites and stalactites. A concrete stairway takes centre stage to what seems like an elevated altar. It is said that Catholic masses were celebrated inside the cave in the 1970s.
See also: 5 fishing spots you can drive to from Metro Manila
Aglipay Caves, Quirino
Above Inside the Aglipay Cave (Photo: LGU Quirino)
Inside the Aglipay Cave (Photo: LGU Quirino)
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Covering over 101 hectares of a forest in the landlocked province of Quirino, the Aglipay Caves are a massive system consisting of 37 chambers—eight of which have been developed for tourists.
Tatler Tip: While the caves are easy to explore, even for beginners, guided tours are available. There is no proper price for tour guides, giving tourists the option to tip what they can.
Mabinay Caves, Negros Oriental
Above One of the 400+ caves in Mabinay (Photo: Flickr/waysabel)
One of the 400+ caves in Mabinay (Photo: Flickr/waysabel)
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Crowned the spelunking capital of the Philippines, the municipality of Mabinay boasts over 400 caves. As of writing, seven caves can be visited by tourists—with three easily accessible by beginners and the other four requiring experience.
The Mabinay Caves isn’t your run-of-the-mill walking tour. Some require squeezing through tight corridors, rappelling down drops and even diving under rocks, so make sure to prepare the necessary gear and your mind.
Langun-Gobingob Cave System, Samar
Above The entrance of the Langun-Gobingob Cave System (Photo: Kelvin Samar)
The entrance of the Langun-Gobingob Cave System (Photo: Kelvin Samar)
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The largest cave system in the Philippines, the Langun-Gobingob Cave System spans approximately 2,968 hectares and features 12 interconnected caves. Inside, you’ll find many of the cave’s denizens, such as bats, crickets, spiders, crabs, and blind cave fish.
Fun fact: Locals claim that some of the chambers are so big that they can fit commercial airliners.
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Gabriel found his passion for writing through poetry in high school. He sharpened his skills at Ateneo de Manila University and hopes to write a play worthy of Broadway one day. A self-proclaimed geek, he loves to spend his free time playing video games and board games. When he's not clicking heads on Valorant or roleplaying as a barbarian in Dungeons and Dragons, you can find him exploring art galleries or watching stage plays.
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A creative writer who writes about anything and everything, Gabriel loves to dive deep into the arts and culture scene—as well as going on long road trips for travel pieces.
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