Nueva Ecija is one of my favorite provinces here in Central Luzon. With its beautiful nature reserves, affordable rates, and close proximity to Pampanga, it’s the perfect getaway for nature lovers like me.
If you’re planning a visit, here are some top spots you should definitely check out.
Pantabangan Lake
On top of my list of the best tourist spots in Nueva Ecija is Pantabangan Lake. Known as one of the largest and cleanest man-made lakes in Southeast Asia, it’s just as breathtaking as it sounds.
We had an incredible stay at Montana del Sol and even got to meet the owner, Sir Mark, who shared some fascinating stories about the town. I fell in love with the resort, especially the pool with its stunning lake view.
If Montana del Sol is fully booked, don’t worry! There are other wonderful resorts nearby with great views. And if you’re up for a quick day trip, the hanging bridge and view deck in Intang are definitely worth a visit.
Carron Dreampark
Carron Dreampark is another favorite of mine. If you’re from Pampanga like us and want to enjoy thrilling rides without the hassle of Manila traffic, this place should definitely be on your bucket list.
What makes Carron Dreampark unique is that they manufacture rides for famous theme parks across the country, so not only will you find some familiar attractions, but you can also trust that their rides are safe and well-maintained. The all-ride pass is reasonably priced, and if roller coasters aren’t your thing, they offer a very affordable entrance fee (sometimes free). For those looking to unwind, you can explore the park, bring & ride your hoverboard, or grab a bite at their food park.
Minalungao National Park
Minalungao is one of the most popular tourist spots in Nueva Ecija, known for its stunning limestone walls and sparkling emerald-green water. The park offers numerous water activities like rafting, diving, swimming, picnicking, and more.
Unfortunately, when we first visited, the resort was still closed. So we explored another nearby resort that gave us access to the refreshing cold river and also offered rafting and overnight stays.
Now that it’s open again, we’ve heard there are additional fees. If it turns out to be too pricey, you might consider checking out other resorts in the area. We’ll update you with more details once we visit again.
Little Vigan
For a taste of Spanish charm without the need to travel all the way to Ilocos, Little Vigan is a fantastic alternative. This quaint spot in Nueva Ecija captures the essence of the historic town with its cobblestone streets and Spanish-style architecture.
As you wander through Little Vigan, you’ll encounter well-preserved ancestral houses, vintage lamp posts, and Gapan’s old town hall. But the real highlight for us was the food park, with plenty of tasty options to enjoy after the two-hour drive.
Bongabon
Last but not the least is Bongabon, home to another one of my favorite spots, Camp Paraiso. This resort is nestled in the mountains, surrounded by lush greenery, and features a multi-layered pool filled with refreshing mountain spring water.
Besides Camp Paraiso, there are several other resorts in the area offering cozy accommodations with stunning views. And if you’re up for more adventure, head to Labi River. You can rent one of their kubos for a day tour or camp by the river for a truly immersive experience.
So there it is— my favorite tourist spots in Nueva Ecija. We’re hoping to explore more destinations in the province. If you know any other great places, let us know, and we’ll add them to our list!