Things To Do
in Cortes
Cortes is a small municipality located in the province of Bohol in the Philippines. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, including rolling hills and lush greenery. The town is also home to a number of historical landmarks, such as centuries-old churches and ancestral houses.
The local economy is primarily driven by agriculture, with crops like rice, corn, and coconut being grown in the area.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a relaxing walk along the pristine beaches of Cortes. Enjoy the sunrise while sipping on fresh coconut water.
Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters. Grab a beachside lunch at a local eatery, tasting fresh seafood dishes.
Experience a stunning sunset by the shore. Unwind with a bonfire or enjoy a quiet dinner at a beachfront restaurant.
Gear up for an exciting morning of mountain biking on the scenic trails around Cortes. Breathe in the fresh air while enjoying the lush landscapes.
Stop for lunch at a local diner before embarking on a hike to hidden waterfalls. Revel in the cool, refreshing waters after your trek.
Relax and reflect on your adventurous day with some stargazing. Have dinner in a cozy lodge, sharing stories with fellow adventurers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty, including beaches and clear waters
- Rich marine biodiversity, ideal for diving and snorkeling
- Lesser-known destination, offering a more secluded experience
- Friendly local community and welcoming atmosphere
- Various outdoor activities such as hiking, island hopping, and water sports
- Limited infrastructure and amenities compared to more developed tourist areas
- Accessibility can be an issue, requiring a longer travel time
- Potential for inconsistent internet and communication services
- Some areas may lack medical facilities or emergency services
- Environmental concerns related to tourism impact on local ecosystems
Best Activities in Cortes
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the vibrant marine life and coral reefs in the surrounding waters. Popular spots include nearby islands and marine sanctuaries.
Take a boat tour to visit the beautiful nearby islands and beaches, enjoying scenic views and opportunities for swimming and relaxation.
Trek through the lush green landscapes and enjoy the stunning views from hilltops. Trails vary in difficulty, catering to all levels of hikers.
Paddle through calm waters and explore coves, mangroves, and hidden beaches. Kayaking is a great way to enjoy nature up close.
Spend a night under the stars at designated camping sites or on the beach, experiencing the tranquility of nature.
Observe a variety of bird species in their natural habitats, particularly in protected areas and reserves around Cortes.
Try your hand at both deep-sea and shore fishing, with opportunities to catch local fish species.
Ride the waves at popular surf spots, suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers.
Tours
Uncover the best of Cortes with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Cortes
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a panoramic view of Coron town, the nearby islands, and the surrounding waters.
Known for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking limestone cliffs, providing a great backdrop for photos.
Known for its powdery white sand beach and turquoise waters, making it perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Cortes
Cortes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Kinilaw is a traditional Filipino dish made with raw fish or seafood cured in vinegar and citrus juices, often with onions, chili peppers, and coconut milk. It's a must-try dish for those visiting Cortes and can be found at local eateries and seafood restaurants along the coast.
Must-Try!
Adobo is a popular dish in the Philippines, featuring meat (often chicken or pork) marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and black peppercorns, then browned in oil, and simmered in the marinade. Look for it at local carinderias (eateries) or small family-owned restaurants for an authentic taste of Cortes.
Lechon is a festive dish of Spanish origin and a beloved part of Filipino cuisine, featuring a whole roasted pig with crispy, flavorful skin and tender meat. Many local celebrations and fiestas in Cortes will feature Lechon, offering visitors a chance to savor this delicacy.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Cortes better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Cortes Night Market is a vibrant hub of local food vendors offering an array of street food delights such as grilled seafood, kebabs, spring rolls, and tropical fruit desserts. Visitors can sample a variety of dishes while immersing themselves in the lively atmosphere of this evening market.
Sugba-sugba stalls, meaning 'grilled' in Cebuano, can be found along the coastal areas of Cortes, where freshly caught seafood like squid, fish, and prawns are grilled to perfection. These stalls provide a great opportunity to taste the freshest local catches while enjoying sea views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Cortes, it is essential to show respect towards elders. Use polite language and gestures, and if you are invited to a local home, address older individuals as 'po' or 'opo' to convey respect.
Dressing modestly is important in both religious and community settings. While casual clothing is acceptable, it's advisable to avoid revealing attire, especially when visiting places of worship or during community events.
Always greet locals with a warm smile and a friendly 'Hello' or 'Good morning.' Handshakes or a gentle nod are common greetings. Also, practice saying 'Salamat' (thank you) to show appreciation for their hospitality.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Cortes with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Cortes
Ensure a smooth experience
In the Philippines, tipping is generally appreciated but not always expected. In Cortes, it is common practice to tip service staff in restaurants, hotels, and other service-oriented businesses. A tip of 10% to 15% of the total bill is customary if service is not included. In more casual settings, rounding up the bill or giving small amounts is also acceptable. Tipping taxi drivers and tour guides is also appreciated.
Payment practices in Cortes often reflect the broader customs found in the Philippines. Cash is still widely used, particularly in smaller establishments and local markets. However, credit and debit cards are commonly accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and retail stores. Mobile payment systems are also gaining popularity, providing convenient options for locals and tourists alike. It is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, as some establishments may have a minimum charge for card transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Cortes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Cortes, Philippines is during the dry season, from December to April. During this time, you can expect sunny weather, calm seas, and perfect conditions for outdoor activities such as island hopping, snorkeling, and diving.
In the wet season, from May to November, Cortes experiences more rainfall and occasional storms. Some travelers may still find this time suitable for visiting if they are interested in experiencing the lush greenery and taking part in cultural events and festivals that occur during this period.
Cortes at Night
Hiking in Cortes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking trail offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the coast. The trail features diverse vegetation and is suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.
This trail runs along the coastline and connects to Dumalan Beach. It provides a unique hiking experience with opportunities to observe marine life and enjoy the beautiful beaches.
A popular hiking destination that offers a challenging trek to the summit, where hikers can witness stunning panoramic views of the mountains and lakes.
A well-maintained nature trail that showcases the local flora and fauna, perfect for a leisurely hike while enjoying the natural beauty of Cortes.
A short but invigorating hike leading to Bintan Falls, where hikers can relax and swim in the cool waters after their trek.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Cortes through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Cortes by plane.
Located in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, this is the nearest major international airport to Cortes, Philippines, offering numerous international flights.
Situated in Pampanga, north of Manila, Clark International Airport serves as a major gateway and is approximately 100 kilometers from Cortes.
Located in Davao City, approximately 210 kilometers southeast of Cortes, this airport offers various international routes.
Approximately 300 kilometers southwest of Cortes, Zamboanga International Airport provides access to various international destinations.
Located in Iloilo City, this airport is about 200 kilometers northwest of Cortes and serves both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Cortes, predominantly speaking Cebuano and engaging in various local industries.
A significant portion of the population, part of the larger Visayan ethnolinguistic group, which spans several islands in the Philippines.
Appearing in smaller numbers, the Tagalog-speaking population is involved mainly in trade and education.
A small but notable demographic, often involved in businesses and commerce.
Including various indigenous peoples, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
The Soul of Cortes
Discover the essence of Cortes through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is one of the most popular sports in the Philippines, including Cortes, known for its street games and community tournaments.
Volleyball is widely played in schools and local communities, often in beach settings, leveraging the country's coastal geography.
Soccer has been growing in popularity in recent years, with local leagues and youth programs promoting the sport.
With many beautiful beaches and resorts in Cortes, swimming is a common recreational activity and competitive sport.
Badminton is a popular indoor sport in the Philippines, including Cortes, favored for its accessibility and local tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cortes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Filipino cuisine prominently features meat and fish, some local eateries in Cortes offer vegetable-based dishes such as pinakbet, laing, and ginataang langka that cater to vegetarian and vegan preferences. Restaurants like Bahay Kubo may also customize dishes to accommodate these dietary choices upon request.
Gluten-free options may be limited in traditional Filipino dishes due to the use of soy sauce and wheat-based ingredients. However, some restaurants in Cortes, particularly those with international influences, offer gluten-free alternatives or can modify certain dishes to be gluten-free, with prior arrangements.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Cortes with these cultural adventures.
