Here is a complete list of Zamboanga Del Norte tourist spots you should not miss!
Zamboanga Del Norte may be one of the least known provinces when it comes to tourism. But don’t let that stop you from visiting this rustic escapade.
Hidden on its vast landscapes are numerous eco-historical wonders waiting for avid travelers. There’s so much to see and explore here and it takes a heart for ecotourism for you to be able to appreciate the province’s beauty.
If you’re planning to visit, here are the must-see attractions in Zamboanga Del Norte that you should not miss.
Behold Zamboanga Del Norte Tourist Spots
1. Sungkilaw Falls
Sungkilaw Falls is one of the hidden waterfalls in the province. Cascading white waters pound to a narrow and deep pool, creating natural music.
Some daring adventurers rappel from the top of the falls and then swim on the pool. It has crystal-clear and icy-cold waters that will surely give you a soothing experience.
The indigenous Subanen tribe has long been protecting the site to ensure its preservation. It is one of the must-see Zamboanga Del Norte tourist spots.
- Location/Jump-off: Brgy Diwan, Dipolog City
2. Situbo Falls
Cascading majestically amidst lush vegetation, Situbo Falls is your ultimate nature’s getaway. It is a two-tier beauty with a collective height of more than 100 feet.
Its raging waters carved a very wide and deep pool with icy-cold waters. It is one of the off-beaten Zamboanga Del Norte tourist spots you should visit.
- Location/Jump-off: Brgy Situbo, Tampilisan
- Trekking Time: 20 minutes
3. Dapitan River Cruise
If you want a gentle tour amidst rustic sceneries, try the Dapitan River Cruise. Enjoy gazing at the placid waters while you catch a glimpse of the locals’ daily activities.
Along the river, you’ll also see coconut plantations and forests plus rural communities.
- Location/Jump-off: Dapitan City
- Fee: Php 350 per person (inclusive of lunch)
- Trip Schedule: 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Cruising Time: 30 minutes
4. Libuton Cave
Libuton Cave hides stunning stalactite and stalagmite rock formations. All in all, it has seven interconnecting caves though only three of these are opened for tourism.
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, you should not miss coming here. It is one of the emerging Zamboanga Del Norte tourist spots.
- Location/Jump-off: Brgy Libuton, Manukan
5. Jose Rizal Memorial Protected Landscape
It is a protected landscape covering more than 439 hectares and was established to preserve the memories of Dr. Jose P. Rizal. Dr. Rizal is the country’s national hero and he has spent years imprisoned in Dapitan.
It is a popular destination, especially for kids and families. Also called Rizal Shrine and Park, it is one of the recognized historical Zamboanga Del Norte tourist spots.
- Location/Jump-off: Brgy Talisay, Dapitan City
- Entrance Fee: None
6. Malala Falls
Malala Falls cascades lazily for about 25 feet towards a naturally-built pool. It is one of the secluded Zamboanga Del Norte tourist spots. Fortunately, the trails are well-established. Expect to trek on grasslands and forests before reaching the waterfall
- Location/Jump-off: Brgy San Pedro, Polanco
- Entrance Fee: Php 20
7. Guimputlan White Beach
Guimputland is one of the off-beaten Zamboanga Del Norte tourist spots. Aside from the white beach, you’ll love the views of the sunrise and sunset here. It is also a good place for activities such as beach volleyball, sunbathing, diving, and a lot more.
- Location/Jump-off: Sitio Guimputlan, Dapitan City
8. Aliguay Island
Aliguay Island is one of the least known Zamboanga Del Norte tourist spots. It has powdery white-sandy beaches and turquoise waters. The island hosts a small fishing community. Aside from the beautiful beach, you can also go diving to explore the rich marine life and colorful corals.
- Location/Jump-off: Dapitan City
9. Cogon Eco-Tourism Park
Showcasing sustainability, the Cogon Eco-Tourism Park features secondary forests with various flora and fauna species. It covers more than 344 hectares.
A massive tree-planting program since 1958 created the forest. It also has more than 10 hectares of old-growth forests, home to endangered Philippines species such as monkeys, Pigeon Dove, Monitor Lizards, and fruit bats.
It is one of the protected Zamboanga Del Norte tourist spots.
- Location/Jump-off: Brgy Cogon, Dipolog City
- Things to Do: Picnic, Camping, Forest trekking, Birdwatching
10. Linabo Peak
Linabo Peak is famous for its 3000-steps. Oh yeah, that’s how many you need to conquer before reaching its summit.
With an elevation of 486 meters above sea level, Linabo Peak offers you a panoramic view of the city and surrounding landscapes. You’ll also hear or encounter different wildlife species such as birds and crickets.
- Location/Jump-off: Brgy Lugdungan, Dipolog City
11. Dakak Beach Resort
Dakak Beach Resort is among the top Zamboanga Del Norte tourist spots. It boasts of a long and curved shoreline with creamy and powdery sands. Locals love to come here to enjoy the scenery and swim on the calm waters.
- Location/Jump-off: Brgy Taguilon, Dapitan City
- Things to Do:
- Kayaking – Rate: Php 275/30 minutes
- Wakeboarding with Speedboat (Php 1000/15 minutes)
- Banana Boat Ride (Php 1,950/15 minutes)
- Pedal Boat (Php 500/30 minutes)
- Parasailing (Php 1000/10 minutes)
- Jet surfing (Php 1000/15 minutes)
12. Ilihan Hill
If you’re up for a hiking experience, find your way to Ilihan Hill. Don’t worry. The trek is not as difficult as you think especially that there is a concrete stairway to the top. The hill’s summit provides a panoramic view of Dapitan City and its varied landscapes.
- Location/Jump-off: Maria Uray Lane, Potol Dapitan City
13. Gloria’s Fantasyland
Considered as one of the biggest theme parks in the Philippines, Gloria’s Fantasyland is your ultimate getaway for fun and thrill. It offers various recreational activities and rides such as a happy journey, kiddie ride, train ride, swinger, and a lot more. You’ll feel like you’re in HongKong when you come here.
- Location/Jump-off: Dapitan City
- Operating Time: Monday to Saturdays (7 PM to 1 AM)
14. Dapitan City Plaza
The City Plaza is the Rizal Park version of Dapitan City. It’s an ideal place to stroll around and unwind.
You’ll surely love the rustic sceneries here, the scents of grasses, and the lush trees. It’s a rustic escape from the hustles and bustles of city life. It is among the most frequented Zamboanga Del Norte tourist spots.
- Location/Jump-off: City Hall Drive Corner, Justice Florentino Saguin St., Dapitan City
15. Mount Lab
Mount Lab is another hiking destination you should not miss in Zamboanga Del Norte. While at the top, you’ll have a view of scenic coves, mountains, and beaches. Local hikers love coming here for fun and adventure.
- Location/Jump-off: Sto. Nino, Dapitan City
16. St. James Church Dapitan
If you’re a devout Catholic, visiting St. James Church should make up to your bucket list. It is one of the oldest Zamboanga Del Norte tourist spots. Built during the Spanish period, the church has a stunning architecture. It’s an ideal place for spiritual reflection and recollection.
- Location/Jump-off: Ipil-Dipolog Highway, Dapitan City
17. Gloria De Dapitan
If you want to taste the most authentic dishes of Zamboanga, check out Gloria De Dapitan. Here, you’ll also find a disco bar, salon, and a children’s playground.
- Location/Jump-off: Sunset Boulevard, Dapitan City
18. Tulwanan Village
It is the original settlement of the native inhabitants of Zamboanga Del Norte namely the Subanen tribe. To help promote their culture, the local authorities constructed traditional houses on the site.
- Location/Jump-off: Sitio Tulwanan, Brgy Lugdungan, Dipolog City
19. Dipolog City Cathedral
Another must-see church is Dipolog City Cathedral which has a unique architecture. You’ll surely love the spiritual ambiance aside from the beautiful design. Thousands of Catholic devotees troop here every year.
- Location/Jump-off: Dipolog City
20. Magsaysay Park
It is an oasis of greenery within the heart of Dipolog City. Trees and plants of different species dominate the landscape. It is often considered as one of the last lungs of the city.
You can also spot different kinds of birds here. It is just a walking distance from the City Hall and the Holy Rosary Cathedral.
- Location/Jump-off: Dipolog City
For Your Information
If you need more information to help set up your itinerary to Zamboanga Del Norte tourist spots, do contact the provincial tourism office via the following:
- Contact Number: (065) 212 9677
- Email Address: zdntourism@gmail.com
- Facebook Page: Zamboanga Del Norte Tourism
