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• Ecotourism in the Philippines

Ecotourism is a form of responsible tourism which strives to achieve certain goals: Traveling to natural parks and landmarks, minimizing damages caused by conventional tourism, providing financial benefits to local businesses and building environmental awareness. Empowering local communities and their culture, and supporting civil rights are also a big part of responsible travelling.

Our agency puts an emphasis on helping you take part in the movement towards a greener, better Philippines. We want to promote eco-tourism, even if it means a smaller profit for us. We strongly believe that preserving this country’s natural assets and local communities is extremely important to the well-being of the Philippines and its tourism. With our help, you can plan an entire eco-tourism vacation and make your stay in the country a more meaningful one.

Let us help you plan an Eco-friendly vacation in the Philippines – with our exclusive tours and authentic accommodation, you can have a great time in paradise while supporting the local community and respecting nature

The best eco-tours in the Philippines

You can book any of this tours as standalones based on your itinerary. However, if you want to have a greener vacation you can also book any package and we’ll see that the attractions and accommodation will be as eco-friendly as possible. You can also contact us and ask to create a package with ecotourism as its main focus.

The importance of ecotourism

The natural attractions of the Philippines are valuable assets, and if they are destroyed it will require an immense amount of money, time and manpower to restore. The government created and enforces regulations regarding nature reserves, environment, recycling and such, while demanding that a portion of the profits made of these places will be allocated to their maintenance. Nowadays, there’s an apparent change in cleanliness and accessibility of natural attractions in the Philippines.

Secondly, although tourism creates jobs, the poorer segments of society don’t benefit from this prosperity as much. The division of wealth and social injustice are already a serious problem in the Philippines. Although traditional tourism does benefit the country and its people, usually it’s the wealthier people (like big hotels owners, airlines, etc.) who get the bigger cut, while the poor are being pushed aside (to make space for the tourists and the establishments). Green tourism channels profits to the lower end of the chain directly, thus minimizing the gap, while being mindful of the local culture.

Eco-friendly destinations in the Philippines

Many other destinations in the Philippines also take the Eco task with pride and diligence. Some islands like Camiguin province declared themselves as non-smoking in public. The town members keep the beaches as well as the town’s streets clean, and some cities banned plastic bags for secondary packing.

Environmental awareness seems to be a growing trend everywhere in the country, but some places are still better for ecotourism than the others. For a better insight read our catalog of destinations . Many places on and off the beaten track offer a variety of experiences. From great tours in nature to close cultural encounters, and facilities suitable for the eco-tourist like green resorts and organic fair trade shops.

Green hotels and resorts

The ASEAN countries and the Philippines among them strongly supports ecotourism. In 2008 they started granting the ASEAN Green Hotel Award. In the last convention as many as 10 Filipino hotels received the acclaimed award, based on strict criteria: air management and control, energy efficiency, environmental friendliness, green products, recycling, fair salaries and payments, etc.

The hotels mentioned above are in: Bohol (3), Batanes, Cebu/Mactan (2), Baguio (2), Davao, and Puerto Princesa Palawan. Those are the official ones that managed to stand up to the remarkably high standards set by ASEAN. On top of that there are many hotels that follow this path, as they want to take part in this important movement.

Booking eco-hotels on your vacation isn’t going to be the cheapest option. However, It’s going to contribute to the wellbeing of the environment and locals you’ll personally meet. On top of that, the quality of service and amenities are superb and will only enhance your experience. Ask us to book the greenest hotels in the destinations you want to visit and we’ll make your vacation much more responsible.

How can my trip be greener?

Not everybody is an eco-tourist, or even aware of such matters. If you wish to make your stay in the Philippines more eco-friendly you can easily do so by asking us to customize your package to be more environmental. You can choose if your activities should include cultural tours and treks in nature. We will also find you the most eco-friendly accommodation available in all of your chosen destinations.

Keep in mind that even doing that for a part of your vacation is beneficial to the wellbeing of the local communities and environments, and better than overlooking the matter altogether. Contact us for creating a green package to meet both your dreams and ideals.

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14 sustainable travel companies you can feel good about booking with

Do some good while seeing the world when you book with these ethical and sustainable travel companies

While we don’t want to labour on the negatives, you don’t need to be an expert or activist to understand that we are in a climate pinch. It seems a little contradictory to fear for the future while excitedly encouraging international travel, but we humans are an innovative bunch. Exploring the globe doesn’t need to be devastating, and being a responsible traveller doesn’t mean lectures and negativity. Whether you call it eco-travel, sustainable, ethical, regenerative or eco-travel, there is plenty to get excited about.

An increasing number of sustainable travel companies are creating itineraries that allow curious minds to see the world while keeping the impact down. The experiences are awe-inspiring, from hiking remote mountaintops to embracing the world’s most impressive national parks, allowing visitors to engage with destinations in a way that extends far beyond the superficial. If you’re looking for an ethical and environmentally driven travel company for your next adventure, look no further.

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Sustainable travel companies

1.  Byway Travel

In an ambitious mission statement, UK travel platform Byway declares that its goal is to make flight-free holidays a mainstream holiday choice. Their way of doing so? By helping people discover the beauty of slow, overland travel across the British Isles and Europe . Founder and CEO Cat Jones launched the now B Corporation-certified company during the first Covid lockdown, determined to find a way to reduce flight emissions. Her explanation was simple: If we continue on the current trajectory, emissions from flying are due to triple by 2050. 

2.  Gondwana Ecotours

Named after the ancient supercontinent that gradually split to become the land masses we recognize today, Gondwana Ecotours says its mission is to bring people from different continents closer together, one trip at a time. The New Orleans -based company specializes in small group and private tours that take on exhilarating experiences around the globe, such as gorilla trekking in Rwanda and eco-adventures in Patagonia and Mendoza.

A key component of Gondwana is its network of guides who live in the communities visited, adding personal knowledge, depth and authenticity to the experience while providing tourism-generated income. The company is also committed to limiting its carbon footprint through sustainable travel practices and is recognized for offsetting more than 580 tons of carbon emissions. Since 2021, its tours have been 100-percent carbon-neutral, as certified by the Cooler emissions tracking organization.

3.  Intrepid Travel

Australian-owned Intrepid has always been forthright in declaring its commitment to ethical and responsible practices. In 2018, it became one of the first global travel operators to be B Corporation-certified. Since 2010, it has been operating as the world’s largest carbon-neutral company, carefully measuring and offsetting all unavoidable carbon emissions for 13 years. 

Their trips are just as impressive. From 15-day expeditions traversing the extraordinary gorges and remote villages of northern Pakistan’s Hunza Valley to nine-day itineraries centred around baby gorilla naming ceremonies in Rwanda’s spectacular Volcanoes National Park, Intrepid offer true bucket list travel adventures suited to guests of all interests and abilities. In 2020, as a part of the Tourism Declares A Climate Emergency initiative, the company published a seven-point climate commitment plan – revealing its intention to transition to 100% renewable energy use in offices by 2025 and on all trips by 2030.

4.  Experience Travel Group

Operating on the belief that ‘travel should be about reciprocation’, Asia travel specialist Experience Travel Group holds responsible travel at its core, enabling guests to interact with the community and experience real cultural immersion on every trip. Another B Corporation-certified company, the team is dedicated to creating experiences that divert away from trendy hubs and big hotels. Instead, they build personalised itineraries with initiatives to give back to the community included in the package. 

On adventures in Indonesia , Laos, Cambodia , Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam , for example, guests can enjoy delicious local dishes at ‘social enterprise’ restaurants that support vulnerable young people through job training and employment. In Cambodia, a trip to the Phare Circus in Siem Reap sends funds directly to a performing arts school for underprivileged children in nearby Battambang. A three-day hike along sections of Sri Lanka ’s Pekoe Trail follows the old horse and cart routes that carried tea to the ports, bringing vital income to little-visited communities. 

5.  Seacology

In 1990, American ethnobotanist Dr Paul Cox was conducting forest research in Samoa when village leaders told him 30,000 acres of pristine rainforest were about to be logged due to a government decree to fund a school. Cox was horrified and quickly devised a proposal to raise the needed money to conserve the forest in perpetuity. His plan worked and has come to define the Seacology model: Provide material benefits to villages that pledge to protect their natural resources.

Today, Seacology offers unique ecotourism adventures throughout the world’s islands, where travelers visit active projects, interact with local people and are part of the formula that helps conserve both habitats and communities. Seacology guests also explore intriguing island environments, from the coral reefs of  Fiji to the rainforests of Borneo, while staying at well-appointed resorts and visiting important cultural sites. With all this tropical splendour, expect plenty of opportunities to scuba dive, snorkel, hike and kayak.

6.  Discover Corps

Discover Corps is the leader in the rapidly growing field of 'volunteer vacations' focusing on children, schools, animals and wildlife conservation. Yes, 'voluntourism' has often become a buzzword to cash in on thinly veiled claims, earning criticism and scrutiny over the years. However, Discover Corps operates with complete transparency and has become something of a gold standard for the model.

Trip itineraries are designed to connect travellers to local communities and provide a deeper understanding of the culture, issues, and ways of life in locations around the world. Many projects are in Africa , Asia , and Latin America and can range from caring for elephants in Thailand to helping to protect the animals in South Africa's Greater Kruger National Park region.

7.  ROW Adventures

From its beginnings as a whitewater rafting company in the US's Pacific Northwest, ROW Adventures has evolved into an adventure travel company that advocates the transformative nature of human-powered experiences. According to ROW, connecting people with nature results in positive impacts, and the company adheres to conducting business in an inclusive and sustainable way while promoting social equity, environmental stewardship and accountability. Human-powered activities allow participants to fully observe the surroundings, whether white water rafting in Idaho's Salmon River, sea kayaking the orcas in Canada, or trekking across Machu Picchu.

ROW also recognizes that travel is a large contributor to the world’s carbon footprint and subsequently mitigates the impact by offsetting carbon-producing activities whenever possible. At the same time, trips also educate guests to be advocates for locations visited, with special recognition given to the awareness of Indigenous communities and honouring their legacies, lives and connections to the land.

8.  Natural Habitat Adventures

Conservation through exploration is the credo of Natural Habitat Adventures , the official travel partner of the World Wildlife Fund. Nat Hab, as it’s called, is committed to environmentally friendly nature travel, stressing that its travellers become a force for change in addressing the planet's most pressing conservation challenges. Polar bear tours in the Canadian Arctic , African safaris and South American nature tours are examples of the company’s itineraries where tourism dollars become an influential incentive for communities to protect their natural resources.

Nat Hab also acknowledges that its 8,000 annual travellers on all seven continents expend plenty of CO2. To mitigate travel’s carbon output, the company leans into offsetting measures. From 2007 to 2019, Nat Hab offset 49,418 tons of carbon dioxide and has become the world's first 100-percent carbon-neutral travel company. They’ve also provided more than $4.5 million to support WWF’s global conservation efforts and continue to give one-percent of gross sales plus $150,000 annually in support of WWF’s global mission. 

9.  Cheeseman's Ecological Safaris

Ecology safaris catering to wildlife enthusiasts looking for an in-depth nature experience is what husband-and-wife founders Doug and Gail Cheeseman envisioned when they started their namesake company in 1980. Doug, a college zoology and ecology professor, and Gail, a naturalist, turned their passion for nature into a travel company focusing on comprehensive wildlife tours all over the globe. Working with local guides and wildlife researchers, tours are designed for hardcore animal lovers who are obsessed with travel and enjoy learning about the animals they encounter.

For example, Cheeseman’s  Palau National Marine Reserve diving trip in the western Pacific Ocean offers 12 days of snorkelling, paddling, sailing and diving among the awe-inspiring tropical islands in the region.

10.  Quark Expeditions

Quark Expeditions co-founders Lars Wikander and Mike McDowell took the first group of commercial travellers to the North Pole in 1991, completing the first-ever tourism transit of the Northeast Passage. That inaugural expedition proved a game-changer and positioned the company at the forefront of polar explorations. In the three decades since, its polar travellers have visited remote parts of the Arctic and Antarctic. 

With the Earth’s polar regions threatened by climate change, Quark is committed to raising awareness of these delicate ecosystems through environmentally responsible tourism. A facet of that commitment is the company’s Polar Promise to reduce its footprint and work with other industry leaders, as well as guests, to address the complex and challenging issues facing the regions. Coordinating with a global network of scientists, community leaders and sustainability innovators, the company plans to contribute a minimum of $500,000 each year in support of key environmental initiatives and sustainable development projects.

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The Best Ecotourism Experiences in The Philippines

Each island group in the Philippines is blessed with bountiful nature, with several attractions encouraging travellers to connect with the environment peacefully and responsibly. Here, ecotourism activities range from coming face-to-face with fascinating wildlife to exploring colourful seascapes. Welcome to the true beauty of the Philippines.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

With over 7,000 islands to explore in the Philippines, it is a dream destination for all kinds of beach bums, outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers.To preserve its natural splendour, ecotourism attractions give tourists a taste of the country’s natural environments while keeping them protected.

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Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park

With its stunning underwater landscape made up of vibrant corals and marine life, it is little wonder the Tubbataha Reefs of the Philippines has been recognized as one of the world’s top diving destinations. The reefs feature 600 species of fish, 360 species of coral, 11 species of sharks, 13 species of dolphins and whales, birds, plus Hawksbill and Green sea turtles. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993 due to its “ pristine coral reef ’ alongside “extensive lagoons and two coral islands”. Because of its isolated location, tourists have to endure a journey that takes approximately 10-12 hours (only accessible from mid-March to mid-June). Nonetheless, being in touch with this frankly magnificent diversity of marine life is worth the travel.

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park

The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park has become one of the most famous tourist destinations in Palawan since its recognition as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature in 2012. From the city center, it’s about an 80-kilometer drive north to the town of Sabang. Whether you take a boat or hike to the entrance of the Underground River, a tour of the eight-kilometer waterway (which is one of the world’s longest navigable river caves) is done aboard a small paddle boat. This tour takes visitors into the cave of impressive, glittering stalactite and stalagmite formations. More than these remarkable rocks, the area represents a complex ecosystem, being home to a number of animals such as crab-eating monkeys and monitor lizards.

Malapascua Island

While its name means ‘Bad Christmas’, the tiny island of Malapascua will bring no humbugs to your holiday cheer. Unspoiled white-sand beaches, beautiful coral gardens, and a beaming marine life sanctuary have earned Malapascua the title of one of the best diving spots in the Philippines. Take the chance to spot thresher sharks, enjoy unlimited scenic views and immerse yourself in a laid-back, relaxing atmosphere. Be sure to order a San Miguel while you watch the sunset.

Cuatro Islas Protected Landscape & Seascape

Nestled in the western part of Leyte, you’ll find a group of islands bordered by white-sand shores and colourful coral gardens – the Cuatro Islas. The group of islands, which literally means ‘Four Islands,’ showcases a rich and diverse underwater paradise in the province of Leyte. These are the islands of Apid, Digyo, Himokilan and Mahaba, which all have a specialty of their own. Through proper maintenance of its ecosystem, Cuatro Islas is on its way to becoming a top recreational diving destination, giving tourists the chance to interact with their diverse marine sanctuary.

Biri-Larosa Protected Landscape/Seascape

Located in Northern Samar, Biri-Larosa Protected Landscape/Seascape is a breathtaking beauty famous for its natural rock formations and scenic views. There are seven gigantic rock formations within the area: Magasang, Magsapad, Macadlaw, Puhunan, Bel-at, Caranas, and Pinanahawan. These are said to be the result of underwater tectonic plate movements and the crashing of waves millions of years ago. Adventure junkies will love the natural saltwater pools and coming face-to-face with diverse wildlife and marine species.

Mount Apo Natural Park

Mount Apo Natural Park is one of the country’s most highly-prioritized protected areas and important heritage sites. This is because it primarily serves as a sanctuary for countless wildlife species, including endangered animals such as the Philippine Eagle , Philippine Deer and over native 600 species. It is also home to two mountains, namely Mount Talomo and Mount Apo — the country’s highest peak. This majestic forest is a rich pool of natural resources set to benefit future generations of Filipinos.

Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary

The Philippines has only six UNESCO World Heritage Sites and one of them can be found on the island of Mindanao . Boasting land and sea ecosystems at various elevations, Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary is a wonderful example of the adaptability of nature. It’s estimated to have 1,400 different species of plants and animals, including the Philippine Tarsier and the world’s smallest dragonfly — the Scarlet Dwarf (Nannophya pygmaea). Within the sanctuary, you’ll also find the natural wonders of Tinagong Dagat (Hidden Sea) and Twin Falls — both features that never fail to enthrall mountain climbers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Siargao Island

Head down south and discover why Siargao Island has become one of the world’s top surfing destinations. This teardrop-shaped island is surrounded with fine white-sand shores, stunning coral reefs and barrelling waves that will test even the most seasoned surfer’s skills. However, the island is not just centred around surfing. You can also go island hopping, jump from the rocks of Magpupungko Rock Pool, explore Tayangban Cave or dine at a variety of world-class restaurants. If you’re lucky, you can catch a beautiful sunset view at the island’s most famous surf break – Cloud 9.

New Israel Eco Park

Situated at the foot of Mount Apo, Barangay New Israel’s Eco Park is among the south’s travel destinations on the rise. Apart from serving as an entry point to the peak of Mount Apo, the once humble village has become home to the longest zip lines in Asia – about 2.3 kilometers long! Divided into two parts, the thrilling ride lets you pass through pass the within the New Israel community and back. Be observant of your surroundings too, as Philippine long-tailed Macaque monkeys freely roam around the area at certain times of day. Just try not to smuggle the cute little scamps under your jacket on the way out.

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Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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Exhilarating ways to experience the great outdoors in the philippines.

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These eco-adventures are the best way to experience the Philippines

Apr 1, 2022 • 5 min read

As the Philippines embraces a more eco-friendly future, now’s the perfect time to plan adventures in the country © Robert Harding World Imagery / Getty Images

Sponsored by

With its numerous megadiverse ecosystems ranging from active volcanos and subterranean rivers to coral atolls and white sand shores, there’s no better place to get outdoors than in the  Philippines . As the country embraces a more eco-friendly future, now’s the perfect time to plan adventures that’ll let you discover this amazing archipelago and leave nothing behind but your footprints.

Snorkle Apo Reef 

The largest atoll-type reef in the Philippines and the second largest contiguous reef in the world (behind  Australia ’s  Great Barrier Reef ),  Apo Reef Natural Park  is a beacon for divers and snorkelers. The park comprises three islands (Apo is the largest and boasts a campsite for overnighters) and just under 17 square miles of crystal clear waters teeming with wildlife. Critters and creatures you can spot here include 400 coral species and 400-500 marine species, such as sharks, rays, and tuna. The elusive giant whale shark is also known to occasionally cruise by. If you choose to stay overnight, make sure to look to the heavens – the Milky Way will take your breath away.

Paddle through Hundred Islands 

The Philippines has more than 7000 islands, so exploring  Hundred Island National Park  offers excellent bang for your buck! There are actually 123 islands popping up out of the azure waters. Some are just big rocks, with many having a top-heavy mushroom-esque shape thanks to the centuries of tides lapping away at the bases of these limestone islands. The best way to see these majestic rocks is by hiring a kayak and taking to the seas. Make sure to bring food and water with you as only a few islands are inhabited.

Discover an underground river

Flowing directly beneath the Saint Paul Mountain Range,  Sabang ’s famous five-mile  subterranean river  (protected as Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park) is a drawcard for local and foreign visitors alike. Don your safety helmet, clip up your life vest, and hop aboard the small paddle boats for an epic journey inside one of the world’s longest navigable river-traversed caves. An audio guide will fill you in on the area’s history, as your real-life guide shines a high-strength flashlight through the inky blackness to spotlight fantastic stalactite and stalagmite formations. Keep your eyes peeled for bats and other flying critters above. Don’t forget to look below you, either, as the waters are teeming with underwater life. 

Stretch your legs 

Meander through mangroves.

Bakhawan EcoPark  is a 543-acre forest resulting from a successful mangrove reforestation project that began in the late 1980s with just 123 acres. Bakhawan translates to “mangrove” in the local dialect (Aklanon), and you’ll see plenty of them here. The EcoPark contains over 20 distinct species of mangrove, as well as an abundance of birds and marine life. Visitors can meander the short bamboo boardwalk that weaves through the forest to a lagoon, where you can view the Kailbo river meeting the Sibuyan Sea. Daredevil foodies can try tamilok, a worm-like creature (that’s actually a shell-less saltwater clam) that feasts on rotting mangrove wood. Guides, for a fee, will happily catch some of these withering creatures for you to eat and prepare them with vinegar …if you dare.

Wildlife spotting 

In the heart of  Mindoro  island lies the mountainous Mt Iglit-Baco National Park, home to approximately 500 critically endangered tamaraws. These wild dwarf buffalos were once prolific in Mindoro. However, due to hunting, logging, and human habitation, the species is only found on a few remote grassy plains. Your best chance of spotting one of these shy beasts is during sunset or sunrise (don’t forget your binoculars). Although you can make it up and back in one day, it’s better to camp overnight on the mountain to increase your chances of spotting one. Tours can be organized via the  Sablayan Tourism Office . Also, keep your eyes peeled for Philippine deer, wild pigs, and other endemic species such as the Mindoro imperial pigeon and scops-owl. 

The tiny, Yoda-like Philippine tarsier is another fascinating critter that calls this archipelago home. The size of an adult hand, these leaping primates are characterized by their huge, fixed, saucer-like eyes and their ability to rotate their heads nearly 360-degrees. Sadly on the endangered list, these super shy, nocturnal critters are best visited at conservation  sanctuaries  on  Bohol  island.

Discover active volcanoes

The Philippines is littered with volcanoes — around 300 are inactive, and 25 are active. Although this might sound a little scary, the volcanoes are constantly monitored for any signs of activity. Simply make sure to check on their conditions with local guides or tourism offices before heading out to explore. Just a few hours from  Manila  is  Mount Pinatubo . Its last eruption in June 1991 caused widespread devastation. Now, 30 years later, it’s a popular day trip for hikers due to its magnificent crater lake (it’s beautiful to look at, though swimming is banned due to the high sulfur levels) and moon-like lahar canyon, formed from a flow of volcanic debris. Tours begin with a thrilling jeep ride to the trail’s starting point, and then it’s an easy hike to the crater. The drive and winds can throw up quite a bit of dust, so carry a scarf or mask to protect your face.

These bamboo bikes are super strong, sturdy, fully kitted out… and dashingly sleek, to boot. Guided  bike tours  run within the walls of Manila’s historic  Intramuros  and will have you whizzing down cobblestone streets and dodging kalesa (horse-drawn carriages) while taking in historical and cultural sites. The bikes are locally made in the Philippines with fair-trade labor and sustainable building practices, plus they’ve got a bamboo nursery for reforestation. What’s not to love?

Tao Philippines 

Traveling through the remote northern islands of  Palawan  and immersing yourself in Filipino island life is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Traveling with socially-conscious  Tao Philippines  makes the experience just that more special. Bringing in and using tourism as a tool to build resilient communities, you’ll see firsthand how these projects are providing opportunities for island locals. Itinerary and routes are not set, decided instead by weather conditions and the group. You’ll spend days exploring coral reefs, beaches, shipwrecks, and nights dining on freshly caught seafood and sleeping in  tukas  (Tagalog for beak) – specially designed Tao bamboo beach huts.

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Go green: 10 Pinoy companies who put the planet before profits

Thanks to climate change, the archipelago we call home has become even more vulnerable to natural disasters. One way to help fight damage is by being mindful consumers. When we support ventures which are passionate about helping our beloved planet, we all win. 

Here are some practical, forward-thinking green companies that you might want to check out. 

1. Cocoon Boutique Hotel

A luxurious experience need not be wasteful. At Cocoon Boutique Hotel, you can enjoy a sosyal staycation in their indulgent rooms without feeling guilty. The upcycled furniture and repurposed wood give the hotel an opulent but very natural feel. They even have their own rooftop garden where they grow spices and herbs for their kitchen! Owners Atty. Ramon and Gigi Vinzon went out of their way to create a sustainable hotel, but because everything was planned well, their guests would never feel deprived.  Laging Handa, Diliman, Quezon City; +63 2 9212706

The Green Luxury of 600 Thread-count sheets, but you’ll be having too much fun to count them here at Cocoon!For… Posted by Cocoon Boutique Hotel on  Tuesday, August 4, 2015

2. Bambikes

Biking is already a good way to decrease one’s ecological footprint, but Bambikes takes it a step further because their bikes are made from bamboo. Quite surprisingly, their bikes actually have a clean, sleek look — not messy, not tacky. It’s the perfect way to make a statement about going green. If you don’t think that you want to invest in a bike, you can still enjoy Bambikes by joining their Intramuros tours.   Plaza San Luis Complex, Real St. corner General Luna Street, Intramuros, Manila; +63 2 5258289.

Awesome Posted by Bambikes Are Awesome on  Sunday, January 10, 2016

3. Echostore

ECHO stands for Evironment, Community Hope Organization. They describe themselves as the combination of “Body Shop and Wholefoods”. Basically, they sell sustainable, green, organic products to offer customers guilt-free options. The community aspect of the brand helps marginalized groups by providing sustainable livelihood. Our favorites? They have specialty coffee from Bukidnon and Benguet at reasonable prices.  G/F The Podium, ADB Ave., Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong; +63 2 4702688. Mon-Thurs 11am-10pm / Fri-Sun 10am-10pm

Have you ever tried Peaberry coffee? It’s that bean you find on rare occasions, and it’s special. We sorted all these beans and roasted them in small batches for you to enjoy! Posted by EchoStore on  Tuesday, April 5, 2016

4. Loudbasstard

Who has not heard of them yet? They’ve made a name for themselves with their renowned bamboo speaker dock. This Cebu-based green company has gotten bigger, and they now offer more products, but they still have the humble speakers that caught the world’s attention when they were first released in 2012. It’s the perfect gift for your cousins abroad. You may purchase their products here.   Their items are also avialable in selected branches of Bo’s Coffee.

#Classics www.loudbasstard.com#loudbasstard #bamboodock #fortheloveofmusic #bamboospeaker Posted by Loudbasstard on  Friday, March 4, 2016

5. Sustainably Made

Mahogany has never been this practical, useful and fashionable. Woodslingers Marco and Mario Sebastian make brilliant use of their trees by making anything and everything — from tablet stands to beautiful serving plates to timeless dinner tables. With their skill and artistry, it’s like they’re just playing with wood! They recently impressed the kitchen experts at Madrid Fusion because of their beautiful kitchen items. You might want to buy your Christmas presents from these guys, but you need to make your list early because they’re in demand. They usually join bazaars. Get in touch with them through their Facebook page. 

One of a kind Honduras Mahogany Live-Edge Bowl. @madridfusionmanila is open to the public today at the SMX Convention Center. #woodenbowl #woodcraft #woodworking #madeinthephilippines Posted by Sustainably Made on  Friday, April 8, 2016

6. Fluffy Pwets

Perhaps you have a friend or relative who’s about to give birth soon? It would be nice to gift them with hybrid cloth diapers made from organic cotton materials. Disposable diapers fill up our landfills so this reusable option is a much better choice. They come in modern, fashionable designs. You can  make a special order if you have a specific print in mind. They even have a Heneral Luna diaper ! You may check out their collection here.

Find Fluffy Pwets diapers, along with other well-curated finds, at Marketa! #Repost @marketa_ph.・・・Fluffy Pwets is the… Posted by Fluffy Pwets Cloth Diapers on  Thursday, February 18, 2016

Reducing cars on the road is one surefire way to help the environment get better. If taking the MRT or riding a jeepney to work sounds too much for you, then you should try the P2P bus. It’s clean, efficient and it follows a schedule. It’s trying to copy the more efficient bus systems of our neighboring countries. The sad thing? It doesn’t seem to be getting as much support as it should. The government might find a reason to take it away if the commuting public won’t show support. If you haven’t already, please give it a try. You might find yourself enjoying the best Manila commute of your life. Their routes and schedules are on their Facebook page. 

Froehlich Tours Inc. modern and innovative bus fleet, credits to Miguel Sandoval Posted by Froehlich Tours on  Monday, April 4, 2016

8. Messy Bessy

Cleaning materials are usually made using harsh chemicals, aside from being harmful to the environment, it can also be harmful to your home, especially if you have kids. Messy Bessy is a line of cleaning materials that offers a good alternative for those who want a natural, chemical-free option. They are safe and biodegradable, so it’s good for you and the the planet. Our favorite is actually their bug spray. It’s a must-have, especially this dengue season. Their products are available in various shops and groceries. Here’s a list. 

We are now part of the Robinsons family! Visit our new store on the 2nd floor of Robinsons Magnolia! Discounted promo packs and Christmas sets are on display! Ho ho ho! Posted by Messy Bessy on  Monday, November 30, 2015

9. Bazurabags

The trend of using bags and pouches made from tetra packs has been around for quite a while now, but going green doesn’t really go out of style. Bazurabags upcycles waste packaging from juice manufacturers in Manila to create hip and useful bags. These materials would otherwise be deposited in landfills. Our tip? Use a Bazurabag to eliminate the use of plastic bags when you go shopping. Their products are available in US and Canada. Here’s their catalogue. 

10. Kawayan Watches PH

It’s actually quite surprising how fashionably sleek these kawayan watches look. They’re made from bamboo and they come at a pocket-friendly price. What’s even better? These timepieces are quiped with premium Japanese Miyota 2035 mechanism for the movement. Oh and they’re waterproof too. They would be perfect gifts for boyfriends and brothers. Check out their collection here. 

Don’t be just part of the ordinary. Wear nature, help nature. #OneWithNature #KawayanWatch #KawayanLiving Posted by Kawayan on  Monday, November 23, 2015

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