10-Day Philippines Historical & Nature Trip to Cebu City, Ilocos Province & Cordillera Mountains

The Mt. Pinatubo Crater Lake is one of Mt. Pinatubo's most visited spot
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Description

Summary

Tour starts
Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
Duration
10 days
Ending place
Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
Languages:
English
Difficulty:
Easy
Minimum age:
None

Description

See the amazing highlands of Luzon and the city and countryside of Cebu. This 10-day vacation package already includes accommodations and transfers as well as entrance fees and tour guides. The itinerary of your vacation is jam-packed with beautiful attractions in places like Manila, Northern Luzon, and Cebu. It’s a mix of cities and caves, mountains and islands, tourist favorites, and hidden destinations. 

There’s an afternoon for swimming in the sea and even a full day for visiting an active volcano. This 10-day package will bring you to notable historical sites, cultural attractions, and more. Your trip will start in the City of Manila, where you will get to go to the walled area of Intramuros. You can expect to see stone fortifications built for war. In comparison, the structures you will come upon in Vigan’s Calle Crisologo are well-preserved Spanish buildings.

You will also visit a man-made site unlike any other at Banaue Viewpoint, you will be able to see rice terraces carved on the face of the mountains. You will also go to Baguio's Camp John Hay, a tourist attraction that used to be a military base. This destination offers dining, entertainment, and shopping sites. In Tarlac, you’ll come face to face with Mt. Pinatubo. This active volcano is visited for its wonderful crater lake. 

After exploring Northern Luzon and its highlands, you’ll be flying off to the islands of Visayas. You’ll get to visit the island of Cebu and enjoy both its countryside and city attractions. The stops you’ll be making include the exciting Kawasan Falls and the tranquil Sirao Flower Farm.

This 10-day vacation package offers a combination of thrilling sites and relaxing destinations. You can look forward to cool mountain escapes, mysterious caves, and sunny beaches.

Experience the best Luzon highlands and Cebu attractions. Check availability by choosing a date. 

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Included

9 nights accommodation (budget category)
9 days breakfast
9 lunch
All flights with 20kgs baggage allowance
Day 1 - Intramuros Tour (Manila)
Day 2 to 3 - Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur (Ilocos Region)
Day 4 to 6 - Sagada, Banaue, and Baguio Tour (Cordillera Region)
Day 7 - Mt. Pinatubo Tour
Day 8 to 9 - Cebu Tour (Central Visayas)
Day 10 - Back to Manila
All transportation to and from included activities and destinations
All environmental fees, port fees, and all other applicable taxes

Activities

Culture, Arts & Historical Tours

Daily itinerary

Day 1
View of National Museum from Intramuros Manila

Day 1 - Day 1: Intramuros Tour

Exploring the historic Intramuros is your agenda for the day. You’ll get to visit some of the oldest stone fortifications in the country. Once you arrive in Manila Airport, your van will pick you up and take you to your Manila hotel to check-in then proceed to your day tour. Your tour of Intramuros starts off at Fort Santiago. This historical landmark was built in 1593 and has gone through wars and earthquakes. At Plaza Roma, you’ll come upon a public square, which has a monument of King Charles the IV from 1824. You’ll visit 2 museums where you’ll get a deeper understanding of the history of Manila. First stop is Bahay Tsinoy, which shows the long relationship of Filipinos with the Ethnic Chinese, from the past to the present. Next is Casa Manila, which depicts the lifestyle of the Filipinos during the Spanish Colonial era. San Diego Gardens is one of the few public parks of Metro Manila. It has a fountain, pergolas, and even an old Japanese canon. Right outside the gardens is Baluarte De San Diego, a 16th-century bastion and Manila’s oldest stone fort. To cap off your Manila Tour, you’ll visit 2 religious and historic buildings. San Agustin Church and Museum is the oldest stone church in the Philippines. Construction for the church was completed in 1607. Meanwhile, Manila Cathedral was founded in 1571, however, the building that stands today was constructed in 1958.
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Day 2
Enchanting facade of Paoay Church against the colorful sunset in Ilocos Norte

Day 2 - Day 2: Ilocos Norte Laoag Tour

On your 2nd day, you will be heading to the City of Laoag, the capital of Ilocos Norte. From Manila, you will ride a plane to Laoag Airport. From there it’s a short ride to your accommodation in Laoag City. Your tour will start at St. Williams Cathedral. This Italian-Renaissance building was constructed in 1612. It has a belfry just a few steps away and has turned into an attraction in itself. The Sinking Bell Tower, built during the 18th century, is said to be sinking into the ground. Museo Ilocos Norte may be a small museum but it has an excellent collection of artifacts and items that highlight the heritage and culture of the region. At Aurora Park, you’ll get to see the Tobacco Monopoly Monument, which was erected during the 19th century. Your next destination is the town of Paoay. It is home to the Malacanang of the North, a presidential museum. The town is also known for the 18th-century Paoay Church. This Baroque structure has an imposing architecture defined by its buttresses. It also has a 3-story bell tower that has a resemblance to a pagoda. The last stop of the tour is the Marcos Museum in the town of Batac. It is dedicated to the former President of the Philippines and it even used to house his crypt.
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Day 3
Jar displays in Pagburnayan Jar Factory in Ilocos Sur

Day 3 - Day 3: Ilocos Sur Vigan Tour

You will leave the City of Laoag and head to Ilocos Sur on the 3rd day of your tour. You will be staying at one of the most popular locations in the region, the Historic City of Vigan. This city has many historical attractions, including an entire street with well-preserved Spanish Colonial houses. First, you will visit the National Museum Ilocos Sur Complex. Inside the complex is the Padre Burgos House as well as the Provincial Jail of Ilocos Sur, which has been turned into a museum. The next site is just a little outside the city, in the neighboring town of Bantay. There you will visit Bantay Church and Bell Tower. At Syquia Mansion Museum, you’ll discover the way of living during the Spanish era. Meanwhile, at Pagburnayan Jar Factor, you will learn how traditional pottery is made. Another important museum you will visit is the Crisologo Museum. It is the ancestral house of the Crisologo political family. At Calle Crisologo, you’ll get to see more impressive structures from the past. St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral, also known as Vigan Cathedral, is an 18th-century church you will visit. For your last stop, you’ll get to see dozens of animals at Baluarte. This zoo complex features big and rare cats, a safari gallery, and even an open-space where visitors can interact with tame animals.
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Day 4
The Hanging Coffins in Sagada is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area

Day 4 - Day 4: Sagada Tour

On your 4th day, get ready for a long and bumpy ride. The road to the town of Sagada can be rough. But in the end, you’ll be rewarded with amazing views of the mountains and more. It’s best to gear up as Sagada has a colder climate and you’ll be spelunking. You’ll get to visit Sugong Cave, which is famous for its hanging coffins. In Sagada, there are locals who continue the practice of burying their dead by placing the coffins on the face of the mountain. To reach Sugong Cave, you will be passing through Echo Valley. This natural area has caverns, trails, and lush greenery. At Sumaguing Cave, you’ll get to see the inside of a cave. There are dozens of caves in Sagada but Sumaguing Cave is the largest one. Within it are amazing natural rock formations and even pools of cold water. The way down the cave is quite a challenge. It should also be noted that the Sumaguing Cave is inhabited by bats. Before you head back to your accommodation in Sagada, you’ll make a stop at the Bontoc Tribal Museum first. This museum has collections of arts and artifacts of the indigenous tribes of the region.
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Day 5
Majestic view of Tappiya Falls in Banaue

Day 5 - Day 5: Banaue Tour

From Sagada, you will make your way to the small village of Batad in Banaue. This area is well-known for its rice terraces, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The terraces are 1,500m above sea level, carved into mountains. You can get a better view of the rice terraces by going to the Batad Banaue Viewpoint. However, this involves a 30-minute hike. If you would rather visit another attraction, you may choose to go to Tappiya Waterfall. This destination also requires trekking but you will be rewarded with more than just a view at the end. The 30m Tappiya Waterfall has a pool at the bottom where you can cool off. Another option you can choose is to visit the Banga-an Village. Here you can interact with locals and see traditional houses—wooden huts with roofs made of cogon. There are also a few souvenir shops in the village where you can purchase hand-made goods. The last attraction of the day is the Banaue Museum. You can learn more about the interesting culture and traditions of the Igorots at the museum. Aside from housing a wide array of artifacts, it also has works of Otley Beyer, the Father of Philippine Anthropology.
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Day 6
Breathtaking view of Baguio from Mines View Park, one of Baguio's top attractions

Day 6 - Day 6: Baguio Tour

The City of Baguio is one of the most popular summer destinations among locals. In fact, it is the Summer Capital of the Philippines. In this city, you’ll be able to explore lush parks and even visit historic locations. At the Ifugao Museum, you can learn more about the history, culture, and tradition of the said indigenous tribe. Then at the Surrender Site of General Yamashita, you’ll get an in-depth account of what transpired in Baguio during World War II. Baguio City is the site of the Philippine Military Academy. This premier military institution has been established as early as the 19th century. It continues to train Filipinos who are looking for a career in the military field. The city is also home to The Mansion, which is the Philippine President’s official summer palace. It has an ornate gate that is right in front of the Pool of Pines. Camp John Hay is a popular site with tourist, shopping, entertainment, and dining facilities. It was, however, a military base used by Americans during World War II. You’ll then be visiting popular parks of Baguio namely, Mines View Park, Wright Park, and Centennial Park. Before the tour ends, you’ll get a chance to shop for some of the sought-after treats of the city. Good Shepherd Convent sells ube, peanut brittle, jams, and more.
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Day 7
ATV Ride in Mt. Pinatubo

Day 7 - Day 7: Mt. Pinatubo Tour

Before making your way back to Manila, you’ll be spending a day at Mt. Pinatubo. This active volcano is responsible for one of the biggest eruptions in the world. Its major eruption happened during the early 90s and it has affected even neighboring countries. After a few years, Mt. Pinatubo became a popular destination for hiking and mountaineering. The base camp of Mt. Pinatubo is located in the province of Tarlac. To be able to cross the lahar-filled terrain, you will ride a 4x4 vehicle. To reach the crater lake of Mt. Pinatubo, you’ll also need to go hiking. Not to worry as the trail is easy enough for beginners. It’s still best to gear up as the hike can get really hot, especially if done at a later time during the day. At the summit of Mt. Pinatubo lies Lake Pinatubo. It was formed after the disastrous eruption of the volcano back in 1991. The beautiful blue-green lake is surrounded by rugged cliffs and greeneries. After your Mt. Pinatubo tour, your van will pick you up and take you to your accommodation in Manila. The distance from Tarlac to Manila is about 128km. You will be staying at a hotel along the Baywalk area.
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Day 8
Colorful patch of yellow and red flowers in Sirao Flower Farm in Cebu

Day 8 - Day 8: Cebu City Tour

It’s time to leave Luzon and go to the island province of Cebu. Your van will take you to Manila Airport where you will ride a plane to Mactan-Cebu International Airport. First, you will explore the tourist attractions of Cebu City. The Taoist Temple is a colorful and towering site located 110m above sea level. This temple is open to visitors and even has a souvenir shop. Basilica Minore Del Santo Nino was founded in 1565, making it the country’s oldest Roman Catholic church. The building dates back to the 18th century. Nearby is Magellan’s Cross, an important historical and religious site. It’s where the explorer Ferdinand Magellan planted a Christian Cross in 1521. At the Heritage of Cebu Monument, you’ll get a deeper background of the city. This piece of art depicts important people, events, and symbols of Cebu. The historic Yap - San Diego Ancestral House was constructed during the 17th century. This museum features a garden, art, and hand-carved furniture. You’ll be heading out of the city center and into the outskirts of Cebu. You’ll visit the Temple of Leah, an impressive Roman-style temple built during the 21st century. After that, you’ll go to the beautiful Sirao Flower Farm where you can marvel at colorful blooms.
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Day 9
Millions of sardines with a diver in Cebu

Day 9 - Day 9: Kawasan Falls and Moalboal Sardine Run Tour

For this day, you’ll be visiting natural sites in the rural towns of Cebu. Be sure to get dressed for some swimming as you’ll go to beaches, islands, and waterfalls. Your van will pick you up from your Mandaue hotel and take you to the town of Badian. Badian is well-known for Kawasan Falls, a trio of waterfalls that also has jungle trails, pools, and lagoons. You’ll get to visit the refreshing Kawasan Falls and even get a chance to jump off a cliff if you dare. After visiting Badian, you’ll then go to the neighboring town of Moalboal. It’s the jump-off point for your island tour. First, you’ll go to Pescador Island, which is a popular site for diving and snorkeling. You’ll be able to see dozens of colorful fish and corals in the area. Next, you’ll head to Turtle Island. As its name implies, you can expect to find sea turtles. The highlight of this tour day is the Sardine Run. This natural phenomenon occurs at Panagsama Beach. Millions of sardines swim around, it’s as if they can form a wall underwater. They can even be spotted right from the shore of the beach. After the tour, you’ll head back to your accommodation in Mandaue.
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Day 10
Philippine Airlines plane at Manila International Airport

Day 10 - Day 10: Departure to Manila

Your 10-day vacation of Luzon and Visayas is finally over. On your last day, you will check out of your hotel in Mandaue City and go to Mactan-Cebu International Airport. From Cebu, the flight to Manila shouldn’t be longer than two hours. You will arrive at Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
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What to bring

Facemask and Face shield
Extra Clothes
Passport (Valid for 6 months from date of departure)
Swimwear and sunblock
Personal Medicine

Good to know

Please bring appropriate clothing. Please be aware that your itinerary may have to be rearranged to fit your arrival date and time better.

All our guides speak English. For other languages, contact us for availability and rates.

Not all establishments accept credit or debit cards, and ATMs can be limited.

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Accommodation

See our accommodation levels below and our preferred accommodation partners under each day in the daily itinerary. All accommodation levels, bookings for one person will be arranged in single rooms, bookings for two or more people will share a twin/double, and odd number groups will always be allocated a single room. If you are travelling in a group, but prefer a single room, please make separate bookings. Teenagers and children will be arranged in the same room with parents. If additional room(s) is needed, additional costs will incur.

For multi-day guided tours, accommodation cannot be upgraded and the levels below do not apply. Guide to the Philippines will provide you with the best available accommodation at the time of your booking from our preferred partners. If our preferred partners are fully booked at the time of your booking, we will find another suitable accommodation for you of similar level.

We always do our best to accommodate special requests, which may incur additional costs. Press choose a date to find availability.

Budget

Private rooms with private bathrooms in guesthouses or small hotels with basic amenities.

Comfort

Private Rooms with a private bathroom at three-star hotels or resorts located in the city center, in close vicinity, or near the beach area. Breakfast is included and with basic room amenities and toiletries.

Quality

Rooms at four-star to a five-star hotel in the city center or beachfront resort with a private bathroom at the absolute best locations with the best amenities, facilities, and services.

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