Legazpi

Written by Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Sophie King, John Santos
18/08/2025
Aerial view capturing the scenic beauty of Mayon Volcano and the tropical coastline in Legazpi City, Philippines.
Jay CP, Pexels

Legazpi, Philippines, presents a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, anchored by the majestic Mayon Volcano. Visitors are invited to engage with historical sites, partake in outdoor adventures, and savor the distinct local cuisine.

For those looking to connect with other travelers, Penaranda Park serves as a central gathering point. The Embarcadero de Legazpi offers a vibrant waterfront with dining and entertainment, while establishments like Mayon Backpackers Hostel provide a social environment for guests.

Top 5 Things to do in Legazpi

Activities in Legazpi often revolve around appreciating the majestic Mayon Volcano through close-up adventures, exploring historical landmarks, and enjoying serene natural settings.

1. Mayon Volcano ATV Tour

Embarking on an ATV tour provides an exhilarating way to get remarkably close to the base of Mayon Volcano. Riding through varied terrain, including lush forests, rivers, and volcanic rock formations, offers an intimate perspective of the majestic landscape. Tours vary in length and trail difficulty, catering to different adventure levels, with guides readily assisting and capturing moments. Expect a bumpy and potentially muddy ride, making it an authentic off-road experience.

Cost: Tour costs generally range from PHP 1,800 for a 150cc ATV to PHP 2,500 for a 500cc ATV per hour, or around USD 45-47 for a 2.5-hour experience. Prices can vary based on the trail chosen and the tour operator.

Transport: Most ATV tours depart from areas near Cagsawa Ruins. From Legazpi city center, a jeepney ride to Cagsawa Ruins costs approximately PHP 15-20. Alternatively, a tricycle can be hired for around PHP 80-150, or a taxi for PHP 160-200. Some tours may include transfers.

2. Visit Cagsawa Ruins

The Cagsawa Ruins stand as a poignant reminder of Mayon Volcano's destructive power. The solitary belfry of a 16th-century Franciscan church, engulfed by the 1814 eruption, creates a dramatic foreground for photos with the volcano. The surrounding park also features local souvenir shops, allowing for a relaxed cultural experience while taking in the historical significance.

Cost: The entrance fee for Cagsawa Ruins is approximately PHP 20-35 for adults, with reduced rates of around PHP 15 for students and PHP 10 for children.

Transport: Located about 8 kilometers from Legazpi city center, Cagsawa Ruins are accessible by jeepneys heading towards Camalig or Guinobatan for about PHP 15-20. Tricycles offer a direct route, costing around PHP 80-150. Taxis are also an option, typically costing PHP 160-200.

3. Explore Lignon Hill Nature Park

Perched 156 meters high, Lignon Hill provides breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Legazpi City, Daraga, the Albay Gulf, and a prime vantage point for Mayon Volcano. Beyond sightseeing, the park offers adventurous activities such as ziplining and rappelling. Visitors can also explore a historic Japanese Tunnel on the premises, adding a historical dimension to the visit.

Cost: An environmental fee of approximately PHP 20-25 per person is charged for entry. Additional activities like ziplining cost around PHP 250-300 (basic) or PHP 350-400 (advanced), and rappelling is about PHP 200-250.

Transport: Lignon Hill is a short drive from the city center. While some visitors opt for an uphill walk (around 20 minutes from the base), tricycles or taxis can take you directly to the park's entrance. Jeepneys on the 'Legazpi-Daraga loop 1' route can drop you nearby.

4. Experience Sumlang Lake

Sumlang Lake, a man-made lake located in Camalig, offers a tranquil escape with stunning, unobstructed reflections of Mayon Volcano on its calm waters. The serene environment is perfect for relaxation. Visitors can enjoy bamboo raft rides, kayaking, or aqua biking on the lake. Cultural demonstrations, such as Bicolano cooking and abaca weaving, provide insight into local traditions.

Cost: Entrance to Sumlang Lake costs approximately PHP 100 for adults, PHP 80 for senior citizens, and PHP 60 for children, plus an environmental fee of PHP 20. Activities like bamboo raft rides, kayaking, and aqua biking are each around PHP 80-100 per person for 30 minutes. Parking fees apply for private vehicles (PHP 10 for motorcycles/tricycles, PHP 20 for cars).

Transport: Located about 15 kilometers from Legazpi, Sumlang Lake is accessible by jeepney from Legazpi to Daraga (e.g., LCC Mall or Public Market), then another jeepney towards Polangui, Guinobatan, or Camalig, dropping off near Agri-Village. A short tricycle ride or walk completes the journey. Private car rentals offer direct access.

5. Visit Daraga Church

The Our Lady of the Gate Parish Church, commonly known as Daraga Church, is a Roman Catholic church notable for its Baroque architecture and its strategic location offering views of Mayon Volcano. Its historical significance, having survived the 1814 eruption, makes it a compelling site for those interested in local heritage and religious landmarks. The intricate details of its volcanic rock construction are particularly striking.

Cost: There is no entrance fee to visit Daraga Church.

Transport: Situated in Daraga, approximately 5 kilometers from Legazpi city proper. Jeepneys from Legazpi Public Market to Daraga are available for about PHP 10-15. Tricycles can take you directly to the church for around PHP 50-100, depending on the starting point. Taxis typically cost PHP 120-150.

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