Tingloy Island: Beaches, Peaks, and Underwater Wonders
The Municipality of Tingloy Island got its name a little bit from a legend. Due to its location in Batangas, Philippines, it is almost named
Batangas
Taal Volcano Protected Landscape
A Wild Beauty Just a Breath Away from Manila
Share
Tweet
Email
- Batangas
Taal Volcano, just a short drive from Manila, is one of the Philippines’ most unique natural wonders—a volcano within a lake, inside another lake. Known for its explosive history and dramatic 2020 eruption, it’s a favorite for tourists seeking scenic views, boat rides on Taal Lake, and cozy food stops in Tagaytay. While parts of the volcano remain restricted, visitors can safely enjoy its beauty from afar, all while gaining a deeper appreciation for the resilience of local communities living in its shadow.
Explore the Philippines through my lens as we venture into Taal Volcano Protected Landscape with Point of View (POV) photography. Using a body cam, I’ll guide you on an interactive tour, revealing the behind-the-scenes of capturing the shots shared here. Let’s dive into this visual journey together and uncover the wonders through my lens!
Let’s explore the PHILIPPINES through my lens as we journey on a photo slideshow to Taal Volcano Protected Landscape. Join me in this visual adventure and discover the wonders captured through my lens! Check out the shared slideshow here.
Let’s be real—when you think of volcanoes, you probably imagine something massive and far-flung, right? But here in the Philippines, just 50-ish kilometers from Metro Manila, sits a natural wonder that’s as fiery as it is fascinating: Taal Volcano. It’s the kind of place that flips the script on what you thought a volcano should be—compact but chaotic, scenic yet unpredictable. And that’s exactly why you need to see it for yourself.
Check out the video for more highlights. See what I’ve captured through my lens with Point of View (POV) photography. Using a body cam, I’ll take you on an interactive tour, showing you behind-the-scenes moments of capturing the shots shared here.
Check out the video below for additional features. Explore what I’ve captured through my lens in this cinematic slideshow.
A Volcano Within a Lake… Within Another Lake?
Here’s the thing: Taal isn’t your average mountain spewing lava. It’s what geologists call a complex volcano—which is just a fancy way of saying it doesn’t follow the rules. Imagine this: a lake inside a volcano (that’s Taal Lake), then an island inside that lake (Volcano Island), and inside that island, another lake (the Main Crater Lake). It’s a geological matryoshka doll that’s just begging to be explored.
A Blast from the Past
Taal might look calm now, but don’t let its pretty face fool you. This thing has erupted more than 30 times since the 1500s, and when it blows, it really blows. Back in 1754, it had a months-long eruption that completely reshaped the landscape. In 1911, it exploded with such intensity that over a thousand lives were lost.
And then, of course, there was the 2020 eruption. That one was unexpected—a sudden burst of ash, volcanic lightning, and tremors that shook nearby towns and forced thousands to evacuate.
How to Experience Taal Today
If you’re thinking, “Is it even safe to go?”—yes, with a few caveats. Some parts of Volcano Island are off-limits, but you can still enjoy Taal in tons of cool (and totally safe) ways.
Taal Lake Cruises
Several operators around Talisay and San Nicolas, Batangas, offer guided boat rides on the lake. The view? Unreal. Imagine drifting past emerald hills with the smoky silhouette of the volcano watching over you.
Trekking Spots (from Afar)
While you can’t currently trek up Volcano Island itself due to safety restrictions, nearby spots like Tagaytay Ridge offer postcard-perfect panoramas. Bring your camera—or drone, if that’s your thing. Sunset shots here? Chef’s kiss.
Food Trips with a View
What’s a trip without food, right? Stop by a café along Tagaytay–Nasugbu Highway, and you’ll find bulalo steaming on the table while Taal simmers in the distance. It’s a vibe.
RELATED STORIES
Nasugbu, Batangas: A Coastal Haven of Serenity and Adventure
The Nasugbu area has an extensive collection of beaches and snorkeling spots which make it a popular summer destination. There are numerous swimming-related activities and
Calaca Church: Nurturing Faith and Legacy of St. Raphael the Archangel in Batangas
It is with Raphael the Archangel that the 184-year-old Spanish Colonial era church in Batangas gets its name. The Calaca Church is more commonly known
Balayan Bay: A Coastal Gem in Batangas Province
Among the many contributions of Balayan Bay that Batanguenos are proud of, the bay served as a fishing village and a summer retreat for locals
Why Taal Is More Than Just a Tourist Spot
Taal’s beauty comes with a lesson. It’s a reminder of nature’s power—how it can build, destroy, and rebuild again. Locals here don’t just live beside a volcano; they live with it. Their stories—of resilience, recovery, and renewal—are part of what makes visiting Taal so meaningful.
And honestly? It’s humbling. You’ll leave with amazing photos, sure, but also a deeper appreciation for the land—and the people—who call it home.
Quick Travel Tips
The best time to visit Taal is between November and March, when the skies are clearer and the air is cooler—perfect for those sweeping views and long, leisurely afternoons outdoors. If you’re planning to stay overnight or over the weekend, Tagaytay is your best bet. It offers not just the most scenic vantage points, but also a wide range of accommodations, from cozy inns to stylish boutique hotels. And here’s a simple tip that travelers sometimes overlook: bring a jacket. The breeze up there can surprise you, especially at night or early in the morning.
One Last Thing…
If you’ve been craving a trip that blends thrill, history, scenery, and a touch of the unpredictable—Taal Volcano is it. And the best part? You don’t have to go far to feel like you’re on another planet.
So go ahead. Make the trip. Just don’t forget to look back every now and then—because that volcano behind you has a whole lot of stories to tell.
I’m looking forward to the stories and images leaving a lasting positive impression on you, just as they have on me. Stay connected with us on social media for a weekly exploration of travel assignments and breathtaking visuals. Our focus is on championing local tourism, showcasing small businesses, and honoring the magnificence of the Philippines through the content we curate. Join us in spreading the word by clicking the ‘share’ buttons below. Your support means the world to us.
EXPLORE MORE about
Batangas
Taal Lake: Unraveling the Mysterious Charm and Enduring Beauty
It is known as Taal Lake, formerly Bombón Lake, and is a freshwater lake in the province of Batangas. It fills the Taal Caldera, a
Taal Basilica: Asia’s Largest Catholic Church and Historical Marvel in Batangas
This Minor Basilica is canonically known as the Minor Basilica of Saint Martin of Tours and is located in the town of Taal, Batangas, within
Tanauan Church: Triumph of Faith in the Midst of Challenges
It was once a stone church, that was built during the Spanish colonial era in Tanauan, Batangas, and was known as Tanauan Church or St
Sigpawan Festival: Lemery’s Vibrant Easter Celebration of Bounty and Culture
Each year, the Sigpawan Festival, which is held in Lemery, Batangas, takes place on Easter Sunday. The highlight of the festival is the Fluvial procession
Balayan Bay: A Coastal Gem in Batangas Province
Among the many contributions of Balayan Bay that Batanguenos are proud of, the bay served as a fishing village and a summer retreat for locals
Fantasy World: From Decay to Regal Beauty
The Fantasy World theme park sits alone and quietly in Lemery, Batangas Province, and is known as the supposed Disney World as well as one
Calaca Church: Nurturing Faith and Legacy of St. Raphael the Archangel in Batangas
It is with Raphael the Archangel that the 184-year-old Spanish Colonial era church in Batangas gets its name. The Calaca Church is more commonly known
Tingloy Island: Beaches, Peaks, and Underwater Wonders
The Municipality of Tingloy Island got its name a little bit from a legend. Due to its location in Batangas, Philippines, it is almost named
Nasugbu, Batangas: A Coastal Haven of Serenity and Adventure
The Nasugbu area has an extensive collection of beaches and snorkeling spots which make it a popular summer destination. There are numerous swimming-related activities and
Our Lady of Caysasay Shrine: A Sacred Treasure of Taal
Known as the Caysasay Church, the Shrine of Our Lady of Caysasay is located in Barrio Caysasay, Taal, Batangas. This is a coral-hewn chapel that
