Things To Do
in Magarao
Magarao is a small town located in the province of Camarines Sur in the Philippines. It is known for its rich agricultural lands and picturesque rural scenery. The town is home to a close-knit community that celebrates various cultural events and festivals throughout the year.
Visitors can experience the laid-back rural lifestyle and enjoy the natural beauty of Magarao.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.20 - $0.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing swim at the pristine beaches of Magarao. Enjoy a leisurely beach walk, taking in the sun and the soothing sound of the waves.
Indulge in a beachside lunch at a local eatery, trying out fresh seafood specialties. Spend the afternoon sunbathing or engaging in water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding.
As the sun sets, gather with friends around a bonfire on the beach. Enjoy local delicacies from nearby food stalls while sharing stories under the stars.
Embark on a morning hike to the nearby Mount Magarao for breathtaking views. Admire the diverse flora and fauna while getting some exercise.
After descending, have a hearty lunch at a local restaurant to refuel. Spend the early afternoon exploring the picturesque landscapes and taking photographs.
Return to your accommodation to freshen up, then dine at a cozy local bistro. End your day with a peaceful evening walk near the trails.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and traditions
- Beautiful natural scenery including rivers and mountains
- Warm and welcoming local community
- Access to local markets and fresh produce
- Relatively low cost of living compared to urban areas
- Limited access to healthcare facilities
- Inadequate infrastructure and transportation
- Potential for natural disasters such as typhoons
- Limited job opportunities for skilled professionals
- Challenges in accessing education resources
Best Activities in Magarao
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the lush forests and diverse wildlife while hiking the trails of Mount Isarog.
Enjoy a refreshing swim and admire the beautiful waterfall at Malabsay Falls.
Experience camping amidst nature and enjoy the soothing hot springs at Panicuason Hot Spring Resort.
Tours
Uncover the best of Magarao with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Magarao
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Magarao and the surrounding areas, popular for hiking and nature photography.
A historic church with a picturesque facade that provides a great backdrop for photography.
Scenic spot for capturing river views, sunsets, and local daily life.
Food in Magarao
Magarao Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spicy stew made with pork, shrimp paste, and coconut milk, giving it a rich and flavorful taste. Best enjoyed with steamed rice. Available at local eateries and food stalls throughout Magarao.
Must-Try!
Taro leaves cooked in coconut milk, chili, and spices. This classic Bicolano dish offers a unique and satisfying blend of flavors. Look for it at family-run restaurants and home-based eateries in Magarao.
A traditional dish composed of flaked fish cooked in coconut milk, malunggay leaves, and chili. Kinunot showcases the region's affinity for using locally sourced ingredients. Local seafood markets and beachside eateries often serve this dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where visitors can explore a diverse array of fresh produce, seafood, and native delicacies. The market also hosts street food vendors offering local favorites like barbecue skewers, grilled fish, and fresh tropical fruit shakes.
Located in the town plaza, this collection of food stalls offers an authentic street food experience. Visitors can sample dishes such as fish ball skewers, banana cue (caramelized banana), and halo-halo (a refreshing dessert made with shaved ice, fruits, and sweetened beans).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Magarao, it is important to show respect for elders by using polite language and gestures, and by deferring to their opinions and decisions.
People in Magarao appreciate modesty in both clothing and behavior, so it's important to dress and act modestly, especially in religious or formal settings.
Community events and gatherings are an important aspect of Magarao culture, and showing participation and support in these events is highly valued as a sign of respect.
Safety
Tipping in Magarao
Ensure a smooth experience
In Magarao, Philippines, tipping is not widely practiced, especially in local establishments. However, in tourist areas or upscale restaurants, a 10% service charge may already be included in the bill. If not, a small tip of 5-10% is appreciated.
Cash is the primary mode of payment in Magarao, although some establishments may accept credit or debit cards. It's advisable to carry enough cash, especially when visiting more remote areas or smaller shops where card facilities may not be available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Magarao is during the dry season, particularly from December to May. During this time, you can expect warm and sunny weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty of the area.
In the wet season, from June to November, Magarao experiences more rain and humidity. While the landscape becomes lush and green, outdoor activities may be impacted by the weather. It's still possible to visit during this time, but be prepared for occasional showers and potential travel disruptions.
Magarao at Night
Hiking in Magarao
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Mount Isarog is a dormant volcano and one of the highest peaks in the Bicol region. It features a diverse range of flora and fauna, stunning landscapes, and several trails for hikers of varying difficulty levels.
The Lagonoy Gulf area offers various hiking opportunities with scenic views of the coastline and surrounding mountains. It is perfect for nature lovers and those looking to enjoy a trek near the sea.
A popular hiking destination, Malabsay Falls is known for its beautiful waterfall and serene surroundings. The hike to the falls provides an immersive experience in the lush natural environment.
Located nearby, Mount Camarines Sur offers challenging trails and breathtaking views. It is a great spot for experienced hikers looking for adventure and stunning vistas.
Mount Purgatory is another excellent hiking site nearby, with a range of trails leading to beautiful viewpoints and natural scenery. It provides a one-of-a-kind experience for hikers of all levels.
Aiports
How to reach Magarao by plane.
Located in Pasay City, Metro Manila, this is the primary airport serving the Manila area and is the busiest airport in the Philippines.
Situated in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, this airport serves the Cebu metropolitan area and is one of the leading international airports in the Philippines.
Located in Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga, this airport serves as an alternative gateway to Manila and accommodates a growing number of international flights.
Also known as Francisco Bangoy International Airport, it serves Davao City and is one of the busiest airports in Mindanao, Philippines.
Located in Cabatuan, Iloilo, this airport serves the city of Iloilo and its surrounding areas and operates several international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Magarao, known for their distinct language and culture.
A local demographic group with unique traditions and customs within the community.
Individuals who migrated from various Visayan islands, contributing to the cultural tapestry of Magarao.
Residents from the Tagalog-speaking regions, often involved in trade and commerce.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played sport in the Philippines, basketball is particularly popular in Magarao, with many local courts and community leagues.
Volleyball is commonly played in schools and communities, often during fiestas and local competitions.
Badminton has gained popularity in recent years, with many residents playing both recreationally and competitively.
A traditional sport similar to volleyball but played with a rattan ball and feet, it is enjoyed by many in the area.
Games like 'patintero' and 'luksong baka' are commonly played by children and during community gatherings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Magarao.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Filipino cuisine heavily features meat and seafood, many restaurants and eateries in Magarao are accommodating to vegetarian and vegan diners. Look for dishes like pinakbet (mixed vegetable stew), ginataang langka (jackfruit in coconut milk), and grilled eggplant salads.
Rice is a staple in Filipino cuisine, making gluten-free options widely available. Dishes such as grilled fish, fresh fruit platters, and rice-based noodle dishes like pancit bihon are great choices for those with gluten restrictions.