When people talk about exploring the Philippines, they mean to go out to the country’s different islands (all 7,641 of them!) and experience our rich culture firsthand. They don’t really have Manila in mind for a cross-country getaway. But what if I told you that there’s a special place that you can visit to see the different corners of the Philippines, right in the middle of the busy streets of Manila?

         I’m talking about Lakbay Museo, a new interactive museum that lets you go across the beautiful provinces of our country so you can satisfy your wanderlust. With its many colorful exhibits and interactive showcases, Lakbay Museo is a portal for you to immerse in the vibrant festivals, wear beautiful traditional textiles, try out uniquely Filipino delicacies, and so much more!

Where is Lakbay Museo?

         Lakbay Museo is conveniently located on the ground floor of the S Maison Mall in Marina Way, SM Mall of Asia Complex. They are open every day from 10 AM to 10 PM, with the last tour starting at 9 PM.

What is inside the museum?

         This vibrant 1,000-square-meter space showcases 14 unique experiences and 11 of the most beautiful destinations all across the Philippines. Here, you can visit the charming installations of the Pahiyas Festival or Panagbenga Festival, or delight in a replica of the world-famous Mayon Volcano and Cagsawa Ruins. Try out some local wines or smell natively grown coffee beans, or relax in the woven banigs from Samar; so much more await you inside this one-of-a-kind museum!

 

         Immediately as you enter Lakbay Museo, you are guided by friendly and accommodating staff garbed in traditional Filipino dresses. There are also hourly cultural dances, such as the tinikling or Pandanggo sa Ilaw, performed by their talented performers.

Get to try out some of the regional delicacies or your favorite Filipino meriendas. With the entrance fee, you also get 12 tokens which you can use to buy the treats that you desire. From halo-halo to different kakanin, the food here is truly a Filipino experience!

         Each tour lasts for two hours, which is enough to maximize all the fun activities and freebies that Lakbay Museo has to offer.

How much is the entrance fee?

         The standard rate is P799 for walk-in bookings and during holidays. Make sure to book online so you can avail of the discounted rate of P699 and save money. 

         Feel free to have your cute kids tag along, because children 2 years old and below are free to enter the museum. However, a birth certificate may be required as proof of age for accounting purposes.

What do I bring inside?

         Just like any other sightseeing vacation, it’s best to pack lightly and to keep your hands free so you can maximize and fully enjoy all of the interactive installations and exhibits. Wear comfy and breathable clothes so you can stay fresh all throughout the tour.

         Taking photos is highly encouraged by Lakbay Museo, so don’t forget to bring your phone or a portable camera to capture all of the great memories that you’ll make in this museum.

         Extra pocket money is also helpful if you want to buy some novelty items at the souvenir shop. These souvenir items are created by creative micro- and small-scale enterprises all over the country.

Go on a one-of-a-kind trip all over the Philippines and have a glimpse of the many great things this country has to offer. At Lakbay Museo, you and your loved ones can now go on a cross-country getaway, while in the convenience of the metro!