Explore Central Visayas’ top destinations including Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor, Moalboal, Oslob, Dumaguete, and Malapascua. Includes itineraries, travel tips, costs, and must see attractions.
Central Visayas Travel Guide (2026 Edition)
Central Visayas (Region VII) is one of the Philippines’ most diverse and adventure‑rich regions. It is home to world‑class diving, historic landmarks, tarsiers, chocolate hills, waterfalls, white‑sand beaches, and vibrant cities. Whether you’re a backpacker, family traveler, diver, or culture enthusiast, Central Visayas offers experiences that appeal to every type of traveler.
The region includes:
- Cebu
- Bohol
- Siquijor
- Negros Oriental
Each with its own unique charm and attractions.
Why Visit Central Visayas
Central Visayas is ideal for travelers who want:
- Island‑hopping and diving (Malapascua, Moalboal, Siquijor)
- Nature and wildlife (Chocolate Hills, tarsiers)
- Adventure activities (canyoneering, waterfalls, whale sharks)
- Heritage and culture (Cebu City, Dumaguete)
- White‑sand beaches (Panglao, Siquijor)
It’s one of the most complete and accessible regions in the Philippines.
Top Destinations in Central Visayas
1. Cebu
A historic and modern island province known for beaches, waterfalls, canyoneering, whale sharks, and cultural landmarks.
View at the top of Osmeña Peak, overlooking Tañon Strait. At the background is Mount Kanlaon, Negros Island. by Tyrll Adolf Itong
2. Bohol
Home of the Chocolate Hills, tarsiers, Loboc River, and Panglao’s white‑sand beaches.
Chocolate Hills in Bohol, Philippines by Philip Nalangan
3. Siquijor
A mystical island known for waterfalls, healing traditions, cliff‑jumping spots, and serene beaches.
Cambugahay Falls in Lazi, Siquijor by Lawrence Ruiz
4. Malapascua Island
A diver’s paradise famous for thresher sharks and pristine island scenery.
Malapascua Island, southern end by Vyacheslav Argenberg
5. Moalboal
Known for the sardine run, sea turtles, and nearby canyoneering adventures.
by weseektravel.com
6. Oslob
Famous for whale shark encounters and Tumalog Falls.
by travelcebu.ph
7. Dumaguete
A laid‑back university city known for food, culture, and easy access to Apo Island.
by thebrokebackpacker.com
8. Apo Island
One of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the Philippines, known for sea turtles and coral gardens.
View of Apo Island from the west by Mike Gonzalez (TheCoffee)
Sample 6‑Day Central Visayas Itinerary
Day 1 – Cebu City
- Magellan’s Cross
- Basilica del Santo Niño
- Cebu Taoist Temple
- Dinner at IT Park
Day 2 – Moalboal & Kawasan Falls
- Sardine run
- Sea turtle snorkeling
- Canyoneering at Kawasan Falls
- Sunset at White Beach
Day 3 – Oslob & Sumilon Island
- Whale shark encounter
- Tumalog Falls
- Sumilon Island sandbar
Day 4 – Bohol
- Chocolate Hills
- Tarsier Sanctuary
- Loboc River Cruise
- Panglao Beach
Day 5 – Siquijor
- Cambugahay Falls
- Salagdoong Cliff Jump
- Lazi Church
- Beach sunset
Day 6 – Apo Island
- Sea turtle sanctuary
- Coral garden snorkeling
- Dumaguete food trip
How to Get to Central Visayas
By Air
- Manila → Cebu
- Manila → Dumaguete
- Cebu → Bohol (via Panglao Airport)
By Sea
- Ferries connect Cebu ↔ Bohol ↔ Siquijor ↔ Dumaguete
By Land
- Buses connect Cebu City ↔ Moalboal ↔ Oslob
Where to Stay in Central Visayas
Cebu
- Beach resorts
- City hotels
- Dive lodges
Bohol
- Panglao beachfront resorts
- Boutique hotels
- Eco‑lodges
Siquijor
- Cliffside resorts
- Beach cottages
- Backpacker hostels
Dumaguete
- City inns
- Seaside hotels
- Apo Island homestays
Travel Costs (Estimated)
- Meals: ₱150–₱450
- Hotels: ₱1,200–₱6,000/night
- Canyoneering: ₱1,500–₱2,500
- Whale shark tour: ₱1,000–₱1,500
- Island‑hopping: ₱1,200–₱2,500
- Transportation: ₱300–₱1,000
What to Eat in Central Visayas
- Cebu lechon
- Puso (hanging rice)
- Dumaguete silvanas
- Bohol kalamay
- Siquijor torta
- Fresh seafood everywhere
Travel Tips for Central Visayas
- Book canyoneering and whale shark tours early
- Bring reef‑safe sunscreen
- Ferries may be delayed during bad weather
- Siquijor roads are easy for motorbike rentals
- Apo Island is best visited early morning
Related Guides
Other Related Guides
- Top 100 Best Destinations in the Philippines
- Best Places to Visit in Metro Manila (NCR)
- Best Destinations in the Luzon Island Group
- Best Destinations in the Visayas Island Group
- Best Destinations in the Mindanao Island Group
Final Thoughts
Central Visayas is one of the Philippines’ most complete travel regions — offering beaches, wildlife, culture, adventure, and world‑class diving. Whether you’re exploring Cebu’s waterfalls, Bohol’s hills, Siquijor’s mystical charm, or Apo Island’s marine life, the region delivers unforgettable experiences for every traveler.