Mt. Apo is not just another mountain in the Philippines. It is the highest peak in the country, a protected natural landscape, and one of the most meaningful climbs a hiker can experience in Mindanao. For many hikers, Mt. Apo is the kind of destination that stays on the bucket list for years. It has the reputation, the elevation, the views, and the challenge. But after experiencing the mountain myself, I realized that Mt. Apo is not only about … [Read more...]
About Aiden Kenzy
I’m Aiden Kenzy, the founder of Lakbay Pinas and a passionate Filipino travel writer dedicated to uncovering the hidden gems and iconic destinations across the Philippines. Since 2015, I’ve made it my mission to explore every corner of our beautiful archipelago—from the towering peaks of our mountains to the pristine shores of remote islands.
Why Malapascua Island Is Still One of Cebu’s Most Rewarding Island Trips
Malapascua Island is one of the most memorable island destinations in Cebu, especially for travelers who want something more purposeful than a normal beach vacation. Many people know it because of thresher shark diving, but the island is also worth visiting for slow travel, snorkeling, quiet beach walks, local food, and simple island life. Located in Daanbantayan, Cebu, Malapascua sits off the northern tip of Cebu Island. It is not as easy to … [Read more...]
A Practical Guide to Planning a Batangas Beach and Island Getaway
Batangas is one of the easiest provinces to recommend for travelers who want a quick escape from Metro Manila without booking a flight. It has beaches, diving spots, mountain trails, island-hopping routes, religious landmarks, and weekend-friendly road trips. But the best way to enjoy Batangas is not to treat it as one single destination. Each area has a different travel style. Some parts of Batangas are better for diving. Some are better for … [Read more...]
Why Communal Ranch Bukidnon Should Be on Your Northern Mindanao Road Trip
Bukidnon has a way of surprising travelers. One moment, you are passing through long highway stretches and cool mountain towns. Then suddenly, the landscape opens into rolling grasslands, misty ridges, cattle country, and wide scenic views that feel very different from the usual beach-and-waterfall image of Philippine travel. One of the best examples of that highland charm is Communal Ranch in Impasug-ong, Bukidnon. Known for its open … [Read more...]
Why Corregidor Island Deserves a Place in a Deeper Manila and Philippine Travel Itinerary
When people plan trips around Manila, the usual focus tends to fall on the obvious city landmarks, quick food stops, shopping districts, or short day tours. That makes sense. Metro Manila is dense, chaotic, layered, and full of places that can fill a packed itinerary. But if travelers only stay inside the usual urban loop, they often miss one of the most meaningful destinations connected to the wider story of Manila Bay and Philippine history: … [Read more...]
Why Quezon Province Deserves a Bigger Place on Your Philippine Travel Bucket List
Some provinces do not need a hard sell. The moment you hear their name, you already know what kind of trip to expect. Quezon is different. It does not always lead the usual travel conversations the way Palawan, Cebu, or Siargao do, but that is exactly part of its strength. Quezon feels broader than one headline destination. It is not boxed into one travel identity. Instead, it gives you a province that can shift depending on what kind of … [Read more...]
Chasing the Sea of Clouds in Tanay, Rizal: A Dreamy Escape Near Manila
There is something magical about standing above a mountain ridge while a thick blanket of clouds rolls below your feet. It feels surreal, almost like the earth has disappeared and you are floating in the sky. That is exactly why the sea of clouds in Tanay, Rizal continues to attract hikers, campers, photographers, and weekend travelers looking for a refreshing escape from Metro Manila. Tanay has long been one of the most accessible adventure … [Read more...]
Top 10 Beach in La Union 2026: A Smart Traveler’s Elyu Guide
There is a reason why a La Union beach trip never feels like a one-time thing. You go for the surf, then return for the sunsets. You plan a quick weekend, and suddenly you’re mapping out your next visit before you even leave. In 2026, La Union continues to evolve — better roads, more refined resorts, stronger local tourism systems — but the soul of Elyu remains unchanged. What makes this province special is the variety. Not every shoreline here … [Read more...]
Leveling Up in Benguet: A 2026 Guide to the Mt. Kotkot Traverse
Hey trail chasers, Welcome back to the blog. If you have spent any time scrolling through outdoor community feeds lately, you have undoubtedly paused on those sweeping, cinematic shots of the Benguet ridges. The endless rolling hills, the golden hour light hitting the pine trees, the sea of clouds in the distance—it all makes you think, “I need to be there immediately.” Mt. Kotkot in Itogon, Benguet is having a massive moment right now in … [Read more...]
Best Beginner Hikes in the Philippines 2026
If you’ve been thinking about hiking but keep telling yourself, “Baka hindi ko kaya,” this is your sign to start. Your first mountain doesn’t need to be extreme. It doesn’t have to be a multi-day expedition with tents, heavy packs, and survival-mode energy either. In fact, the best way to fall in love with hiking in the Philippines is to begin with a minor climb—the kind of trail that challenges you just enough, gives you a beautiful summit … [Read more...]