Top 20 Adventurous Things to Do in Manila, Philippines

Top 20 Adventurous Things to Do in Manila, Philippines

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Manila, the vibrant capital of the Philippines, is more than just a bustling metropolis of history and commerce. Hidden within its dynamic streets, towering buildings, and urban energy are adrenaline-pumping experiences waiting to be discovered. If you’re a thrill-seeker searching for adventurous things to do in Manila or simply want to uncover the exciting things to do in the Philippines, this guide is your ultimate roadmap.

Here are the top 20 adventurous activities in Manila that will supercharge your visit and leave you craving more.

1. Skyranch Pampanga’s Drop Tower

Just outside Manila, Skyranch Pampanga offers one of the most exciting things to do in Manila for adrenaline junkies—the Drop Tower. Plummet from over 100 feet in the air with views of the countryside, all within a short drive from the city.

Highlights:

• Free fall sensation
  
  


• Scenic rides and roller coasters
  
  


• Safe and family-friendly
  
  

2. Indoor Skydiving at City of Dreams' iFLY

Looking for the feeling of flight without jumping out of a plane? Indoor skydiving at iFLY is one of the cool things to do in the Philippines, offering a wind tunnel experience that simulates the rush of a free fall.

Why It’s Adventurous:

• Great for first-time flyers
  
  


• Safe indoor environment
  
  


• Suitable for families and teens
  
  

3. White Water Rafting at Daraitan River

While technically in Rizal Province, Daraitan River is just two hours away from Manila and offers white-water rafting—a must for anyone seeking exciting things to do in the Philippines.

Adventure Perks:

• Navigate rapids through forested valleys
  
  


• Group tours with expert guides
  
  


• Instagram-worthy scenery
  
  

4. Hiking Mount Balagbag

For hiking enthusiasts, Mount Balagbag is one of the closest peaks to Metro Manila and a solid challenge for those seeking the outdoors.

Why Go:

• Easy to moderate hiking trail
  
  


• Spectacular sunsets
  
  


• Off-the-beaten-path vibe
  
  

5. Trampoline Parks: Jump Yard & Bounce Philippines

Trampoline parks are a hit in Manila and among the cool things to do in the Philippines, especially if you’re after a quick adrenaline fix.

Top Spots:

• Bounce Trampoline Park in SM North Edsa
  
  


• Jump Yard in Pasig
  
  


• Ninja courses and foam pits included
  
  

6. Surf the Waves at Flow House Manila

Located in Bacoor, Flow House is an artificial wave pool designed for flowboarding—think surfing but in a safe, enclosed setup.

Adventure Features:

• Practice surfing without going to the beach
  
  


• Professional instructors
  
  


• Great for all ages
  
  

7. Ride ATVs in Rizal or Bulacan

Get off-road with an ATV tour just outside the capital. These forest trails and muddy paths offer adventurous things to do in Manila that combine nature and speed.

Best Locations:

• San Mateo, Rizal
  
  


• Dona Remedios Trinidad, Bulacan
  
  

8. Ziplining Over Tagaytay Ridge

Ziplining might sound familiar, but Tagaytay’s ridge gives you the thrill of flying over deep valleys with Lake Taal as your backdrop.

Experience Includes:

• High-speed zipline
  
  


• Beautiful mountain and lake views
  
  


• Great stopover for day trips
  
  

9. Ghost Hunting in Intramuros

Not your typical adrenaline activity, but ghost tours of Intramuros are certainly one of the more exciting things to do in Manila. The haunted Spanish architecture and wartime ruins set the stage for a spooky night.

Why Try It:

• Learn dark historical tales
  
  


• Explore ancient dungeons
  
  


• Perfect night-time activity
  
  

10. Wall Climbing at Climb Central Manila

Climb Central is an indoor climbing gym located in Mandaluyong, perfect for those craving vertical adventure.

Reasons to Climb:

• Beginner to advanced walls
  
  


• Safety harnesses and training available
  
  


• Community events and competitions
  
  

11. Escape Rooms in Quezon City and BGC

If you enjoy mental thrills and teamwork, escape rooms provide adrenaline with a cerebral twist.

Top Escape Room Venues:

• Mystery Manila (Multiple Locations)
  
  


• Breakout Philippines (BGC, Greenbelt)
  
  


• Realistic, movie-like settings
  
  

12. Paddleboarding in Manila Bay

Calmer but still adventurous, paddleboarding lets you cruise along Manila Bay or nearby coves.

What to Expect:

• Beautiful sunset views
  
  


• Beginner-friendly
  
  


• Good mix of exercise and relaxation
  
  

13. Go Kart Racing at City Kart Racing Circuit Makati

Burn rubber and race your friends around the track in Makati. Kart racing is one of the cool things to do in the Philippines for groups and solo travelers alike.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Professional racing karts
  
  


• Time attack competitions
  
  


• Night racing available
  
  

14. Free Diving Classes in Manila

Learn the art of freediving in a city-based training pool before hitting the deeper waters of Batangas or Palawan.

Adventurous Edge:

• Push your limits underwater
  
  


• Breath-hold training
  
  


• Connect with a passionate community
  
  

15. Join a Parkour Class

Yes, you can learn parkour in Manila. Urban fitness studios in Quezon City offer classes for beginners and pros alike.

Why Try Parkour:

• Urban obstacle challenges
  
  


• Builds strength and agility
  
  


• Unique form of adventure fitness
  
  

16. Explore Masungi Georeserve

Just outside the metro, this award-winning nature park blends conservation with high-adrenaline adventure via hanging bridges, rope courses, and limestone trails.

Top Features:

• Trail courses like Sapot and Yungib
  
  


• Eco-tourism at its finest
  
  


• Great for group adventures
  
  

17. Urban Bike Tours and Night Rides

Join a guided biking tour through historical and modern Manila by night. It’s one of the most exciting things to do in Manila for cyclists and explorers.

Why It’s Unique:

• Light-up bikes
  
  


• Ride through Intramuros, Escolta, Binondo
  
  


• Learn stories with every stop
  
  

18. Bungee Bounce at SM Mall Parks

If you want quick thrills, bungee trampolines in major malls like MOA offer that split-second flight that’s perfect for kids and the young-at-heart.

Perks:

• Safe for all ages
  
  


• Short and sweet adrenaline burst
  
  


• Fun for family groups
  
  

19. Food Adventure: Exotic Eats in Binondo & Quiapo

Adventurous doesn't always mean physical. Dive into unique and daring eats like balut, betamax, and crocodile sisig!

Must-Try Stops:

• Ilang-Ilang Restaurant
  
  


• Ongpin Street food tours
  
  


• Sidewalk grilling stations
  
  

20. Urban Paintball and Airsoft Arenas

End your adventure list with a bang—literally. Urban airsoft and paintball arenas let you simulate combat in safe environments.

Top Locations:

• Global Gutz (Pasig)
  
  


• Paintball Republic (Makati)
  
  


• Great for team-building and parties
  
  

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Urban Wild

There you have it—20 adventurous things to do in Manila, Philippines that blend thrill, culture, and uniqueness. Whether you're diving off cliffs (or trampolines), hiking peaks, racing karts, or eating daring dishes, the capital offers a mix of exciting things to do in the Philippines you won’t find anywhere else.

For those constantly searching for cool things to do in the Philippines, let Manila surprise you with its thrilling hidden gems.

Travel Tips:

• Best Time to Go: Dry season (November–May) for most outdoor activities
  
  


• Getting Around: Use Grab for convenience or rent a motorbike
  
  


• Budget: Expect ₱300–₱1500 per activity
  
  

Want more?
Stay tuned for our full Adventure Itinerary Builder or request custom travel plans via Travelpodium!

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