Looking for an active vacation in the Philippines? Look no more. With climate change and global warming the keywords of the day, the archipelago is planning for a more eco-friendly future. The Philippines offers a variety of ecosystems, including coral atolls, active volcanoes, green spaces, white sand beaches and subterranean rivers. Here we look at five ways to experience the Philippines as an eco-tourist.

1. Explore active volcanoes in the Philippines

The archipelago has many volcanoes, 300 of which are inactive and 25 are active. While it might sound dangerous to visit an active volcano, they are monitored at all times for any signs of activity. Before heading out to explore, check with the local tourism office or local guides.

One of them, Mount Pinatubo, is a few hours’ drive from Manila. The volcano last erupted in June 1991, causing widespread devastation. However, fast forward three years and Mount Pinatubo has become a popular day trip for hikers, due to its incredible crater lake. While the lake is beautiful to look at, swimming is banned due to high sulfur levels.

Meanwhile, there is also the moon-like lahar canyon, formed from the flow of lava. Tours here start off with an exciting jeep ride to the start of the trail, after which is an easy hike to the crater. Make sure you carry a scarf or mask to cover your face as the wind can blow up dust.

2. Snorkle Apo Reef

Apo Reef Natural Park is the largest atoll reef in the Philippines and the second-larges contiguous reef in the world after Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Popular with divers and snorkelers, the park spreads over three islands. Meanwhile, Apo is the largest and has a campsite for those wishing to stay overnight. Surrounding the islands is 17 square miles of crystal clear waters, teeming with marine life.

Here, divers can spot around 400 coral species and between 400-500 marine creatures, including rays, sharks, tuna and more. For those staying overnight on Apo, starlight views of the Milky Way are quite incredible.

3. Kayak through Hundred Islands National Park

The Philippines is a vast archipelago with more than 7,000 islands to choose from. Meanwhile, 123 of these islands make up the Hundred Islands National Park, nestled in the turquoise waters. While paddling among them, visitors can explore the limestone islands, some of which are just big rocks. Other islands are a mushroom shape, due to waves washing away their bases. It is recommended to take plenty of food and water as only a few of the islands are inhabited.

4. Explore an underground river

Sabang’s famous five-mile subterranean river flows directly beneath the Saint Paul Mountain Range. The river, protected as Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, is popular with locals and visitors alike. Among the Philippines’ famous eco-adventures, you can hop aboard a small paddle boat, wearing a safety helmet and life vest. Then, you can head out on an epic journey inside one of the longest navigable river-traversed caves in the world.

As you head out along the river, your tour guide will shine a high-strength flashlight to reveal the amazing stalactite and stalagmite formations along the way. Meanwhile, looking down into the water will reveal the lively underwater marine life living there.

5. Go wildlife spotting in the Philippines

For those wishing to visit the incredible wildlife of the Philippines, the Mount Iglit-Baco National Park is the ideal place. The park is located in the heart of Mindoro Island and is home to around 500 critically endangered tamaraws. These are species of wild dwarf buffaloes that were once prolific on the island. However, due to human habitation, logging and hunting, only a few can be seen on the grassy plains. Meanwhile, visitors can spot wild pigs, the Philippines deer and the cute Philippine tarsier pictured here, which is also on the endangered list.

Experience eco-adventures in the Philippines this year, taking only photos and leaving behind only footprints to show you were there. Visit the official tourism website for more information.