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Philippines detailed itinerary

DAY 1: ARRIVE IN MANILA, PHILIPPINES

Upon arrival in Manila, you will be transferred to the hotel. We will have an orientation meeting followed by a welcome dinner.
Overnight in Manila.

 

DAY 2: MANILA CITY TOUR - US WAR CEMETERY; FORT SANTIAGO; INTRAMUROS

This morning we embark on our city tour of Manila with a drive to the US War Cemetry & Memorial. The largest overseas American cemetery is the final resting place for more than 17,000 American who lost their lives, mostly in New Guinea and the Philippines during WWII.  We will also visit Ayala museum before stopping for lunch.

 

After lunch, we visit Fort Santiago built by the Spanish in 1571 and Intramuros, the old walled city. Some of the highlights we will visit include San Agustin church (UNESCO), Casa Manila museum and Manila Cathedral. Late afternoon, we will go to a rooftop restaurant in Intramuros for dinner with stunning view of Manila as we enjoy the sunset.
Overnight in Manila.

 

DAY 3: FLY TO BOHOL

Today, we depart the capital and fly to the island of Bohol, where we will enjoy the many sites and wildlife of the island. We drive to our lovely resort on the ocean. Enjoy the palm-lined beach before dinner.

Overnight in Bohol.

 

DAY 4: TARSIER SANCTUARY; LOBOC RIVER CRUISE; CHOCOLATE HILLS; FLYING LEMURS

Our full day starts with a visit to the Tarsier Sanctuary, which has the smallest primates that are mostly found in Southeast Asia — tarsiers. Enjoy a lunch cruise on the Loboc River before visiting the cool and shady manmade forest, with its white and red mahogany trees. It is part of a reforestation project started over 50 years ago. We visit the Chocolate Hills, which are a slight mystery to locals and visitors alike and sometimes called the Eighth Wonder of the World. We also visit a seldom-visited park with superb opportunities to see the flying lemurs. Technically they can't fly but they can glide great distances. Time permitting, we may visit Baclayon Church, the oldest Christian settlement in Bohol, sometime during the day. 

Overnight in Bohol.

 

DAY 5: PAMILACAN MARINE SANCTUARY - DOLPIHINS, TURTLES & MARINE LIFE

Our day starts early in the morning, as we make our way to Pamilacan Island. We can never guarantee wildlife but enroute to Pamilacan island, we will likely be accompanied by dolphins at play who often seem to almost show off at times. Pamilacan Island is a community of former whale and dolphin hunters, who now operate as guides and guardians of the local marine life. Pamilacan is home to a diverse marine ecosystem, and is an excellent spot for diving and snorkelling. Pamilacan Island is most famous for its coral gardens and its marine turtle sanctuary, showcasing the rich marine biodiversity in Bohol’s waters.

Overnight in Bohol.

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DAY 6: FERRY TO SIQUIJOR; CAMBUGAHAY FALLS

We take an early morning ferry to Siquijor where we will check in to our next hotel. We'll enjoy an afternoon excursion to the stunning Cambugahay Falls, famous for its 3-tier waterfall with some of the most beautiful turquoise water you will ever see, hidden away in the dense green jungle. We will have time for for swimming, hiking and relaxing. 

Overnight in Siquijor.

 

DAY 7: ANCIENT BANYAN TREE; TRADITIONAL MYSTIC HEALING RITUALS; VIEWPOINT

Today we embark on the Siqujor coastal scenic tour, which includes the 400-year old banyan tree (considered by many locals to be a mystical focal point on the island), and St. Isidore Church and Convent. We will also be able to visit a local bolo-bolo healer and a healing hut to see some of the local healing rituals of Siquijor. The rest of the Philippines will often refer to the ghosts and magic that exist on the island!

Overnight in Siquijor.

 

DAY 8: APO ISLAND MARINE SANCTUARY; TO DUMAGETE

Apo Island, located off the coast of Dumaguete, is small 74-hectare volcanic island and the oldest community-run marine sanctuary in the Philippines. The island boasts of immense coral reefs and diverse marine life, but is most famous as a protected area for giant sea turtles. Sea turtles swim and graze leisurely all around the island’s waters, unbothered by visitors. The marine sanctuary runs along 0.5 km of the island's southeast coast and has become a popular dive and snorkelling site due to the wonderful biodiversity found amongst its turquoise blue coastal waters.

Overnight in Dumaguete.

 

DAY 9: FLY TO LEGAZPI VIA CEBU OR MANILA

Today we fly to Cebu (or Manila) and connect to our onward flight to Legazi. The afternoon is free to  decompress from a long day of travel. As we land in Bicol (or Legazpi) airport, you will have great opportunities to view the Philippines most active volcano, Mayon Volcano with its perfect cone shape. Time permitting, we may have time to visit a few sites in Legazpi.

Overnight in Legazpi.

 

DAY 10: SNORKEL WITH WHALE SHARKS; MAYON VOLCANO; FILIPINO CULINARY EXPERIENCE

We get up early to drive to Donsol, which is the whale shark capital, known for its local community that offers sustainable and responsible excursions to see this magnificent animal. These massive, gentle creatures feed on plankton, so no worries, tourists are not on the menu! We will spend several hours in search of whale sharks and hopefully we will have several viewings. Once sighted, you will be instructed to get your snorkelling gear and told when to jump into the water. Sightings can be quick or for extended periods, especially if you are a strong swimmer. The whale sharks are quite slow moving and can grow to 50 feet in length, and it's not uncommon to see them between 5 and 10 meters or up to 35 feet. After our whale shark experience and lunch by the ocean, we return to Legazpi.  

 

Our afternoon adventure includes a “Bikolinarya Culinary Experience” where you learn to make the unique Filipino dishes "Laing" and "Bicol Express" the traditional way. The Bicol region is most famous for two things – Mayon Volcano and its near-perfect cone, and its cuisine. Most notably its unrestrained use of spices combined with coconut milk that have become its trademark. We can enjoy both simultaneously as we will have our cooking class near the base of the volcano.

Overnight in Legazpi.

 

DAY 11: DONSOL; SNORKEL WITH WHALESHARKS

Today, you will have a second chance to see whale sharks. Donsol is one of the few places in the world that can offer almost assured whale shark sightings from November to June. The name Donsol has become synonymous to whale sharks as the world’s largest congregation of whale sharks are found here. The whale sharks of Donsol stay in this natural environment longer than any other place in the world. With simple snorkelling equipment, you will have the opportunity to swim alongside these gentle giants.

 

Later in the day, we fly back to Manila where we will stay at our airport hotel.

Overnight in Manila.

 

DAY 12: MANILA TO TRADITIONAL BANAUE; UNESCO RICE TERRACES

After an early breakfast, we depart for a long drive (10-12 hours) to Banaue. We start out near sea level with a flat landscape but after some hours, we start to ascend into the mountainous region of Banaue.  Banaue is a unique and breathtaking destination that offers a glimpse into a more traditional way of life in the Philippines. Upon arrival, we check into our hotel with stunning views where we can enjoy our dinner. 

Overnight in Banaue.

 

DAY 13: BANAUE RICE TERRACES; BANGAAN TRADITIONAL VILLAGE

After breakfast, we depart for Bangaan, with several stops at stunning viewpoints of rice terraces. At the end of our drive, we start our short but steep hike down to the traditional village of Bangaan. Here we can learn about their traditions, rice houses with their wood carvings, culture and spend time with the friendly locals. We may also have time to visit the local school.

 

This afternoon we will arrange a traditional dance at or near our hotel with its superb views over rice terraces. Dinner will follow the performance.

Overnight in Banaue.

 

DAY 14: STUNNING TERRACES OF BATAD (UNESCO)

After an early breakfast, we hop on a local Jeepney to visit the town market. From there, it’s about an hour drive to the starting point of the short Batad trek to splendid viewpoints. The Batad rice terraces are a must-see experience for anyone visiting the Philippines, and possibly one of its most famous landmarks. The landscape is truly unforgettable (Everyone will walk 1.5 km to the viewing deck.)

 

We'll have lunch at a local restaurant, overlooking the terraces and trek back to the Jeepney.

Overnight in Banaue.

 

DAY 15: TO SAGADA; BURIAL CAVE AND HANGING COFFINS

After breakfast, we'll take a 3 hour drive to Sagada, stopping along the way at the Banaue Viewpoints, Bayo Village, and Bontoc Museum. The Bontoc Museum was founded by Belgian nuns, whose goal was to document and preserve the rich cultural heritage of the Ifugao. 

 

After checking into our hotel in Sagada, we will go to Burial Cave and then to lunch (unless timing warrants something else). After lunch, we'll stop in to a wonderful coffee shop, where you can enjoy a dessert and purchase some delicious coffee for home! we'll then make our way to a viewpoint of coffins before continuing on to get a closer look at the hanging coffins. The trail is not difficult, however there is a lot of steep inclines, as Sagada is up in the mountains, and the access to the burial sites are on lower levels. Steep steps lead down to an enormous, lichen-furred cave where more than 100 coffins are stacked at the entrance; the oldest coffin is believed to be about 500 years old.

Overnight in Sagada.

 

DAY 16: HISTORIC TOWN OF VIGAN (UNESCO)

We depart Sagada and ascend into a high peak before descending the many switchbacks until we finally reach the lowlands near sea level, all the while enjoying the breathtaking mountain scenery. We will have lunch enroute in the mountains. In Vigan, we will check into our classic hotel before walking down the main street to take in the beautiful architecture, horse and carriages and cobblestone lanes. We will get a chance to walk and stretch our legs on our way to a local restaurant, enjoying the street ambiance along the way.

Overnight in Vigan.

 

DAY 17: COLONIAL TOUR OF VIGAN BY CALECHE

After breakfast we will tour the UNESCO World Heritage town of Vigan by horse and carriage (caleche). The Old Quarter of the city has remained generally untouched and offers a unique glimpse into the mixture of Spanish, Mexican, and Chinese architecture, brought together in a distinctly Filipino way. Aside from the historic Calle Crisologo, the heritage tour also includes the Vigan Cathedral, stops at a museum (former prison), and a pottery place with a very long oven. We'll enjoy lunch by the river and continue back to Vigan via its most famous street. You'll then have a free afternoon to explore or wander on your own, or you can go back to relax at our beautiful colonial style hotel. Dinner is at a restaurant in the square.

Overnight in Vigan.

 

DAY 18: SITIO REMEDIOS; MARCOS SUMMER HOUSE; ST AGUSTINE CHURCH (UNESCO); FLY TO MANILA

After a relaxing morning and breakfast, we depart for the Crisologo Ancestral House/Museum.  Afterwards we'll drive to Paoay to visit the UNESCO Heritage St. Agustine Church of Paoay (locally known as “Paoay Church” ), famous for its distinctive architectural design – enormous buttresses that flank each side as protection against earthquakes. We'll have a quick visit to Laoag City before heading to the airport for the evening return flight to Manila.

Overnight in Manila.

 

DAY 19: FLY TO PUERTO PRINCESA; KITU-KITO; FIREFLY WATCHING

We take an early morning ferry from Bohol to Cebu. Upon arrival in Cebu, we transfer to the airport for our flight to Puerto Princesa. We have some time to freshen up at the hotel before departing for   Kitu-KiTo for firefly watching and dinner. We will learn about the mangrove area that house the fireflies before setting out by boat to see them sparkle at night.

Overnight in Puerto Princesa.

 

DAY 20: UNDERGROUND RIVER NATIONAL PARK

We have an early departure and a 1.5 hr drive to the Underground River National Park in Sabang.

We will take a small outrigger boat across the bay to the entrance of the river. The park features a spectacular limestone landscape with an underground river. One of the river's distinguishing features is that it emerges directly into the sea, and its lower portion is subject to tidal influences. The river is the longest navigable subterranean river in the world and is also a significant habitat for biodiversity conservation. We will learn the history and highlights of the river on our small  paddleboat through a section of the cave. 

 

We will have free time after lunch at our resort to enjoy the beach, get a massage, or partake of another short boat tour of the nearby mangrove forest. 

Overnight in Sabang.

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DAY 21: MANGROVE RIVER TOUR; DRIVE TO STUNNING EL NIDO

After breakfast, we will enjoy lunch enroute at a local restaurant. We arrive in El Nido and check into our lovely resort. El Nido is famous for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, coral reefs, and splendid limestone rock formations.

Overnight in El Nido.

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DAY 22: ISLAND-HOPPING IN PARADISE

We spend the day island-hopping in paradise on our El Nido cruise to deep-blue lagoons and white-sand beaches. We visit the Big Lagoon, Entalula Island, Snake Island, Secret Lagoon, Seven Commandos Beach, and Shimizu Island. This will be a spectular day traveling by outrigger, making several interesting and beautiful stops for swimming, relaxing, exploring, kayaking and enjoying lunch at one of the islands. We return to El Nido for dinner and sunset.

Overnight in El Nido.

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DAY 23: LINAPACAN CASTAWAY EXPERIENCE - SLEEPING UNDER THE STARS

Today we will set out for our castaway camping experience on the pristine island in the Linapacan area. We will have individual mesh tents for sleeping under the stars right on the beachfront. Each tent has a mattress, pillow, bed cover, and blanket. Enjoy a fully-staffed crew on the island including a chef, masseuse, and licensed boat crew for island hopping. 

Overnight on an island in the Linapacan area.

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DAY 24: ENCHANTING ISLANDS BY OUTRIGGER; TO EL NIDO

We depart the Linapacan area on an outrigger boat for a 2 hour journey. Along the way, we stop at enchanting islands, where we have time for swimming, snorkelling and a delightful picnic lunch. This scenic and leisurely journey adds an extra layer of adventure to our travel day. Our final stop will be lunch near a WW2 shipwreck, with corral reef making much of the wreck its home. We can snorkel easily to the wreck, which is in relatively shallow waters. We arrive back in El Nido in the late afternoon for dinner and sunset. 

Overnight in El Nido.

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DAY 25: FLY TO CORON; BOAT TO ISLAND RESORT (CLUB PARADISE)

After breakfast we have a morning flight to the large island of Busuanga. The area is an adventurer's paradise, with opportunities for kayaking, wreck diving, and island-hopping. The area is filled with white-sand beaches, coral reefs, dense rainforests, mangrove swamps and crystal-clear lakes. 

Overnight at Island Resort (Club Paradise).

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DAY 26: DUGONG (MANATEE) WATCHING

Dugong watching is a full-day excursion to several feeding grounds along the Busuanga coastline, and two turtle islands for skin and scuba divers. If a dugong is spotted (they surface every 4 to 5 minutes), we watch the animal first from the boat (like whale watching) then approach the dugong by snorkelling. Since this excursion is operated in a natural and sustainable way, to limit the intrusion into the habitats of the dugong, there is no way to absolutely guarantee a sighting, however with a sizeable manatee population (there are currently 30 living in the bay) the chances are quite good. 

Overnight in Island Resort (Club Paradise).

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DAY 27: FLY TO MANILA

We travel by outrigger to the mainland, and drive to the airport for our flight from Coron to Manila. Upon arrival we check in to our hotel and have some free time to visit some local sites including churches and museums, or for last-minute souvenir shopping. Tonight we will have our farewell dinner.

Overnight in Manila.

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DAY 28: DEPARTURE

We bid a fond farewell to the Philippines as we transfer to the airport for our flights home.