Hidden deep within the lush landscapes of the Philippines lies a forest so surreal that visitors can’t help but feel like they are in some alien movie. This is not because of the wildlife found there or some unreal-looking lakes and rivers. It’s the trees. Here, the trees shimmer in streaks of green, orange, purple, pink, and neon blue, so vividly coloured that they appear almost like someone painted them. These are the world-famous rainbow eucalyptus , a natural wonder that has transformed a quiet patch of Luzon in the Philippines into one of the most extraordinary and photogenic forests on the planet.





The rainbow eucalyptus (Eucalyptus deglupta) are found in the Philippines, where they grow naturally in warm, humid regions. But one of the most popular and accessible places to see them is in the rainforests around Luzon, particularly in the provinces of Quezon and Mindanao, where they thrive in well-watered, tropical conditions. These forests, dense with greenery and alive with birds and insects, form the perfect backdrop for the rainbow eucalyptus, towering giants that stand anywhere from 50 to over 200 feet tall.







In Quezon Province, especially around Maria Aurora Memorial Natural Park, travellers can witness clusters of these vibrant trees lining forest pathways and riverbanks. These pockets of rainbow eucalyptus, surrounded by ferns, bamboo, and thick tropical vegetation, create a magical atmosphere, one that’s most likely to be remembered for a long time.





What makes the rainbow trees so specialThe rainbow eucalyptus is the only eucalyptus species native to the Northern Hemisphere, already making it a botanical rarity. But what truly sets it apart is its unique bark. Unlike other trees, the eucalyptus sheds its bark in long strips throughout the year rather than seasonally. As the outer layer peels off, it reveals a bright, lime-green inner bark. Over time, this surface matures and transforms into a spectrum of colours—blues, purples, reds, oranges, and browns. So throughout the year, the tree bark keeps peeling off, and then you have this colourful and mesmerising tree in front of you. Also, this constant cycle of peeling and colour-changing means that no two trees look exactly alike.





It’s easy to see why travellers from around the world seek out this mesmerising grove. Many travellers are drawn to these forests not just for their colours but also for their tranquillity. The rustling leaves, cool rainforest air, and winding streams make for a calming forest retreat, far removed from city noise. Visitors can join guided tours. There are eco-walks that one can be a part of, and these walks highlight the trees’ ecological role, helping visitors appreciate the forest beyond its aesthetics. It’s not just about the looks, you see. The rainbow eucalyptus trees offer a rare blend of natural beauty, unusual science, and visual impact, making them a dream for photographers, nature lovers, and curious explorers.








The trees’ vivid hues pop dramatically against the deep greens of the surrounding rainforest. Misty mornings, especially during or after the monsoon, create an even more ethereal ambience. Visitors often spend hours walking the trails, searching for the brightest colours or the most striking patterns.





Because the rainbow eucalyptus grows naturally in only a handful of countries, including the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, and Indonesia, the species is considered uncommon.





Efforts are ongoing to protect these unique trees from logging and land conversion. Some communities are working with environmental groups to preserve the species and promote sustainable tourism.





For anyone who loves unusual landscapes, vibrant colours, or destinations that defy imagination, this Philippine forest is a must-see. It’s a place where nature becomes art, where science becomes magic, and where travellers come away with stories and photos that they will talk about for years to come.