13 Hidden Eco Villages in the Philippines You Need to Discover Now
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If you’re craving a break from crowds and noise, these 13 hidden eco villages in the Philippines are worth checking out.
Each one offers a simple, nature-filled way of living, powered by solar energy, surrounded by green landscapes, and led by locals who truly care for the environment.
From the calm shores of Palawan to the cool mountains of Luzon, these spots show how travel can be both peaceful and purposeful.
Get ready to unplug, explore, and see how real eco-living feels in the heart of the Philippines.
13 Hidden Eco Villages
1. The Paradise in Palawan
If you’re craving a peaceful break surrounded by greenery, Sheridan Organic Farm & Eco Village in Puerto Princesa is a solid pick.
It’s part working farm, part eco-retreat, where you can enjoy organic meals made from fresh local produce and take guided garden tours.
Guests love how calm and genuine the place feels, no crowds, just clean air and a real connection to nature. It’s best to visit from December to May when the weather’s dry and perfect for exploring the farm and nearby countryside.
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2. Mount Purro Nature Reserve (Rizal) in the Sierra Madre Mountains
Mount Purro Nature Reserve is a peaceful forest escape located in the foothills of the Sierra Madre, just a short drive from Metro Manila.
This family-run eco-village doubles as a reforestation site and social enterprise, where guests can hike forest trails, take river dips, and learn about sustainable living.
You can stay overnight in cozy cottages or tents, join guided walks, and even chat with locals about their reforestation projects.
Visitors love the calm vibe and community feel, it’s a real reset for anyone craving nature therapy without going too far from the city.
3. Cambuhat River & Village (Buenavista, Bohol)
Cambuhat Eco-Village is a special place where the local community is in charge of everything. From calm paddle-boat tours through beautiful mangroves to visiting oyster farms, the locals make sure visitors have a great time.
People can also enjoy a fresh seafood lunch made by the community, which is both tasty and educational.
Many people talk about how the experience helps local families and protects the mangroves, giving everyone a real look at how sustainable life works on Bohol Island.
4. Coastal Escape in Siargao
Siargao’s not just for surfers anymore! it’s becoming a model for eco-conscious travel.
Between morning surf sessions and sunset yoga, you can join community-led farm tours like Bayatakan Farm Experience or support local guides through Lokal Experience Siargao.
These projects focus on sustainable living and recovery efforts after Typhoon Odette, so your visit directly helps the island bounce back.
It’s the perfect coastal escape if you’re after waves, wellness, and real connection with the locals.
5. Gardens of Malasag Eco-Tourism Village (Cagayan de Oro / Misamis Oriental)
Gardens of Malasag Eco-Tourism Village is a peaceful spot on the hills of Cagayan de Oro, where you can enjoy both nature and culture.
You can walk through different themed gardens, watch live cultural shows, and see amazing views of Macajalar Bay.
It’s only a short drive from downtown CDO, so you don’t have to travel far to enjoy nature. Locals say it’s a great place to relax, learn about indigenous culture, and take photos without big crowds.
6. Bohol Bee Farm (Panglao, Bohol)
If you love living the organic life, Bohol Bee Farm in Panglao is a must visit.
What started as a small organic farm has grown into an eco resort and community hub, known for its farm to table meals, homemade cassava ice cream, and honey based treats you can buy at their shop.
You can take short farm tours, learn about beekeeping, and enjoy fresh meals with a view of the sea, all just a quick drive from Panglao’s main beach.
In the wider Visayas, smaller farm stays like Jolits EcoGarden offer cozy, hands on experiences where you can help out in the garden and enjoy fresh, local food straight from the farm.
7. Malapascua & Camotes Islands
If you’re looking for a mix of turquoise waters and meaningful travel, Cebu’s small islands like Malapascua and Camotes are perfect.
Malapascua is not only a popular diving spot but also known for its reef protection projects and dive shops that support marine conservation.
Over in Camotes, you can find peaceful beaches, eco parks run by locals, and small family-owned resorts that focus on being sustainable.
8. Banahaw Circle Nature Retreat + Habilin Farms at the foot of Mt. Banahaw
Banahaw Circle Nature Retreat and Habilin Farms, located at the foot of Mt. Banahaw in the Quezon/Tayabas area, offer an eco-friendly getaway perfect for slow travel. The site features regenerative farms, organic practices, and eco-cultural tours.
Visitors can enjoy spiritual walks, forest therapy, wellness retreats, and dips in natural springs.
The retreats also serve farm-to-table meals made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, allowing guests to connect with the land.
Embracing the area’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, Banahaw Circle and Habilin Farms provide a peaceful escape to unwind and experience sustainable living.
9. Aluminak (Santiago Project)
Aluminak (Santiago Project) in Ilocos Sur, Northern Luzon, is a regenerative co-living and eco-art commune that offers a peaceful retreat focused on sustainability, community, and creativity.
Located in a coastal, nature-filled area, it offers creative residencies and workshops, allowing visitors to disconnect and explore regenerative design and artistic expression.
Perfect for those looking for a quiet, eco-friendly space to reflect, create, and learn, Aluminak combines nature, creativity, and sustainability for a refreshing experience.
10. Waling-Waling Eco Village – Calaguas Island, Camarines Norte
Waling-Waling Eco Village on Calaguas Island in Camarines Norte is an eco-friendly getaway surrounded by untouched nature.
Famous for its beachfront cottages and sustainable practices, the village encourages environmental awareness and community involvement through eco-tours.
It’s accessible by boat from the mainland and is best visited during the dry season, from March to May.
11. San Roque Eco-Village – Salcedo, Eastern Samar
San Roque Eco-Village in Salcedo, Eastern Samar, was created as part of the recovery after Typhoon Haiyan to provide sustainable housing and livelihood programs for displaced families.
The village focuses on resilience and community development, with cement bamboo frame houses and programs offering skills training and community-led projects.
It is open for educational tours and volunteer opportunities, giving visitors a chance to learn about and contribute to its efforts.
12. Lulugayan Falls & Eco Village – Calbiga, Samar
Lulugayan Falls while supporting sustainable tourism and environmental conservation.
The eco-village lets visitors explore breathtaking waterfalls, join community-based eco-tourism activities like river trekking and nature walks, and experience local culture through traditional crafts and rituals.
The village focuses on environmental awareness, aiming to preserve its natural surroundings while offering an immersive cultural experience.
Accessible through guided tours, it’s best visited during the dry season for the best travel conditions.
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13. Anilao Eco Village – Bongabong, Oriental Mindoro
Anilao Eco Village in Bongabong, Oriental Mindoro, is a community-driven project that aims to improve the lives of locals through sustainable practices and eco-tourism.
The village supports fishing-based livelihood programs, offers eco-friendly accommodations, and organizes community events to engage both locals and visitors.
It is open for day tours and community activities, giving visitors the chance to learn about sustainable living while enjoying the area’s natural beauty.
Travel Tips for Visiting Eco Villages in the Philippines
🌿 Respect Nature: Always follow village rules about waste and conservation. Avoid leaving trash, picking plants, or disturbing animals. The goal is to leave the place just as beautiful as you found it.
👣 Go Local: Support the community by buying local products, joining workshops, and eating food made by villagers. It helps the people and gives you a real taste of their way of life.
💧 Bring Reusable Items: Carry a water bottle, utensils, and a tote bag to reduce plastic use. Small habits like this make a big difference in protecting the environment.
📱 Unplug and Be Present: Eco villages are perfect for a break from screens. Enjoy the fresh air, sounds of nature, and friendly conversations. You will feel more relaxed and connected.
📸 Take Photos Kindly: Feel free to capture the beauty of the place, but always ask before taking photos of locals or their homes. Respecting their privacy shows appreciation and kindness.
Why These Eco Villages Are Worth the Trip
Each of these eco villages shows a different side of the Philippines, where people and nature work together in harmony.
Visiting them is more than just a trip, it is a chance to learn, connect, and care for the planet.
From beaches to mountains, every place reminds us that living simply can bring real joy. So pack your bags, stay curious, and start your journey to a greener and more mindful adventure.
🧭 Travel Resources for the Philippines
Planning a trip around the Philippines? Here are trusted websites and tools to book flights, ferries, hotels, tours, and everything else you’ll need for smooth island-hopping.
✈️ Flights Between Islands
Find the best domestic and international flight deals with 12Go or Skyscanner, and check budget airlines like Cebu Pacific, AirAsia, and Philippine Airlines for cheap inter-island connections.
⛴️ Ferries and Island Transfers
Book ferries between popular islands like Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor, and Palawan on 12Go, which lists updated schedules, routes, and ticket prices for operators like OceanJet, Montenegro Lines, and 2GO Travel.
🏨 Where to Book Your Stay
Choose from beachfront resorts, city hotels, or private stays with Booking.com, Agoda, Airbnb, or Vrbo for family-friendly rentals.
🚗 Getting Around
Compare car rentals on Rentalcars.com or DiscoverCars, book private transfers via Klook, or use Grab in major cities like Manila, Cebu, and Davao for hassle-free rides.
🌴 Book Tours and Activities
Explore top attractions, island-hopping tours, and cultural experiences with Klook, Viator, or GetYourGuide, which all offer easy online booking and reviews.
📶 Stay Connected
Stay online with an Airalo eSIM, rent pocket WiFi from Klook for groups, or buy a local Globe or Smart SIM card upon arrival at the airport.
💸 Cash, ATMs, and Payments
Always carry pesos for small towns and markets, as card payments aren’t widely accepted in remote areas and ATMs can be limited on smaller islands.
🧳 Travel Insurance
Protect yourself from flight delays, medical emergencies, and trip cancellations with flexible plans from SafetyWing, HeyMondo, or World Nomads.
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About the Author
Hey, I’m Anjie! I love to travel, try local food, and sometimes get a little lost just to see what I’ll discover. I’m obsessed with nature and the sound of waves. That’s why I live where I can take a quick drive to watch the sunset and enjoy the ocean view.
I never start an adventure without iced coffee. I share hidden places in the Philippines because I want others to feel the same peace and joy I do when I find something beautiful and unexpected.
