11-Day Philippines Heritage & Nature Tour to Bohol, Apo, Cebu & Palawan Islands & Dumaguete City

Blue waters of Apo Island in Dumaguete
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Description

Summary

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

Description

Set off on an 11-day vacation in the Philippines and visit the historical landmarks of Ilocos and Baguio, the breathtaking countryside of Bohol and Cebu, and the idyllic seascape of Dumaguete and Puerto Princesa with this package from Manila. Your accommodations, daily breakfast, transfers, entrance fees, and guides will be pre-arranged in this package, making it a hassle-free way to explore the Philippines. 

Your first day will be spent at the heart of Manila for a day tour of Intramuros. This walled district is a National Historical Landmark, housing a myriad of Spanish-era attractions. 

From the city, you will fly to Bohol to experience its refreshing countryside attractions. While in the province, you will sail to Pamilacan Island in the Bohol Sea, go on the Loboc River Cruise, and pose for photos at the famed Chocolate Hills.

You will then board a ferry that will whisk you off to the neighboring island of Dumaguete. Known as the City of Gentle People, Dumaguete is dotted with several interesting and historical landmarks, one of which is Silliman University. You will also get to enjoy the underwater sights with a trip to Apo Island. 

You will then travel to Cebu, where you will find the Kawasan Falls. This 40-meter-high waterfall sits 130km southwest of Cebu City and features refreshing and cool natural spring waters. You will then visit the Taoist Temple and Sirao Flower Farm before flying to Puerto Princesa International Airport in Palawan. 

Spend a day hopping from the islands dotting Honda Bay and cruising through the UNESCO World Heritage Site called Puerto Princesa Underground River.

Experience the untainted beauty of the Philippines with this 11-day trip to Manila, Bohol, Dumaguete, Cebu, and Puerto Princesa. Check availability by choosing a date.

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Included

10 nights accommodation (budget category)
10 days breakfast
10 lunch
All flights with 20kgs baggage allowance
Day 1 - Intramuros Tour (Manila)
Day 2 to 8 - Bohol, Dumaguete and Cebu Tour (Central Visayas)
Day 9 to 10 - Puerto Princesa Tour (Palawan)
Day 11 - Back to Manila
All transportation to and from included activities and destinations
All environmental fees, port fees, and all other applicable taxes

Activities

Island Hopping
Culture, Arts & Historical Tours

Daily itinerary

Day 1
Inside Fort Santiago in Intramuros

Day 1 - Day 1: Intramuros Tour

You will fly to Manila via Ninoy Aquino International Airport, where your guide will welcome you. From there, you will head to Intramuros, a century-old walled district located in the heart of the city. Intramuros has been a favorite hangout for picnics and historical tours, primarily because of its old-world charm and myriad Spanish-era landmarks. Among these landmarks is Fort Santiago. Used as national hero Jose Rizal's prison, this stone fortress dates back to 1593 after Miguel López de Legazpi became Spanish governor. You'll then make your way to Plaza Roma, considered the heart of Intramuros. Your guide will take you next to Bahay Tsinoy and Casa Manila, two of the must-see iconic museums in the walled district. You will also visit San Diego Gardens and Baluarte de San Diego at the southwestern corner of Intramuros. Built in the shape of the ace of spades, this bastion dates from the 16th century and has been a National Cultural Treasure since 2014. After enjoying the gardens, make your way to San Agustin Church and Museum, officially known as the Church of the Immaculate Conception of San Agustin. The tour concludes with a visit to the Manila Cathedral before heading to your accommodation in Manila or Roxas Boulevard.
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Day 2
Fresh oysters in Cambuhat Oyster Farm in Bohol

Day 2 - Day 2: Bohol Cambuhat Tour

You will now leave Manila and fly to the province of Bohol. After leaving your hotel, you will board a plane and land at Panglao International Airport. From there, your guide will bring you to the eco-friendly Cambuhat Village in the municipality of Buenavista. Cambuhat Village, with its abundant natural resources and various eco-tourism pursuits, has gradually become the town's pride. Once you arrive at Buenavista, you'll get off your van and board a paddleboat on Daet Bridge to get to the village. You will then cruise down the Cambuhat River, which is lined with mangroves and palm trees. When you arrive in the village, you will make your way to Cambuhat Oyster Farm. This is one of the village's leading sources of income. The locals here will demonstrate how they harvest oysters. You will also visit a small tourism center on the riverbanks near the farm. After learning about oyster harvesting, dig into a hearty oyster lunch while the locals entertain you with a traditional Buri dance. You will then learn how to make woven products with native looms before you leave the village and head to the neighboring island of Panglao, where you will check into your accommodation.
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Day 3
White sand beach in Pamilacan Island

Day 3 - Day 3: Bohol Pamilacan Island Tour

From your Panglao hotel, you will head to the town of Baclayon, where you will find Pamilacan Island off its coast. This island sits in the center of the Bohol Sea, some 12.5km from the mainland. It is well-known for being a refuge for whale sharks and dolphins, so keep an eye out for them while you sail to the island. Although Pamilacan currently has around 2,000 residents, its natural beauty remains unspoiled. In fact, you will see nothing but pristine white sand and blue seas for miles on end. You can immediately go swimming as soon as you dock or go on a quiet stroll along the beach. Feel free to sunbathe on the powdery sand, as well. While here, make sure to experience Pamilacan’s underwater paradise composed of bucket sponges, sea tortoises, and various fish species. In case you’re craving a more adrenaline-pumping experience, there are also diving spots you can find here. After you’ve had your fill of the water activities, you can go on on a quick trip to the 200-year-old Spanish fort on the northeast side of the island. This observatory is now a National Cultural Treasure but was used as a lookout for Moro pirates before. At the end of the day, you will sail back to the mainland and be driven back to your accommodation in Panglao.
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Day 4
Aerial view of the Loboc River in Bohol

Day 4 - Day 4: Bohol Countryside Tour

On the morning of Day 4, you will embark on a trip to the town of Corella, where you can enjoy some time at the Corella Tarsier Sanctuary. This woodland field is populated by a significant number of tarsiers. You can easily spot them sleeping in the branches and hopping from branch to branch. Snap plenty of photos of these adorable primates before jumping aboard a floating restaurant for the Loboc River Cruise. The floating restaurant will take you along the river’s emerald waters as you dig into the buffet meal on board. Additionally, the locals will perform Filipino songs and dances to complete the experience. Afterward, continue your tour to Baclayon Church. Also referred to as the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, this church is made of coral stones and dates back to 1595. Then, your guide will take you to the Butterfly Conservatory, where you can observe the whole life cycle of a butterfly. From there, you will drop by the Bilar Forest for a photo-op in front of its eye-catching stretch of mahogany trees. You will then take in the beauty of the world-famous Chocolate Hills before you return to your accommodation in Panglao.
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Day 5
Promenade of Rizal Boulevard in Dumaguete

Day 5 - Day 5: Dumaguete City Tour

It's time to take the ferry from Bohol to see the City of Gentle People, Dumaguete. When you arrive in the province, your tour will begin with a visit to the Silliman University Campus. This 62-hectare campus is home to around 300 age-old acacia trees and at least 10,000 students. You will then go to Dumaguete's promenade, Rizal Boulevard, where you can enjoy a relaxing stroll along the beach. From there, you will stop by St. Catherine de Alexandria Cathedral. Also known as Dumaguete Cathedral, this church was completed back in the 1700s and stands right next to the Dumaguete Campanario, the Visayas' oldest bell tower. You'll also drop by Dumaguete Public Market to purchase some goodies before visiting the Provincial Capitol and Freedom Park, and the Claytown Pottery. From there, you will then make your way to Sidlakang Negros Village and stop for lunch at Lab-as Seafood. After your meal, you will continue your tour to Valencia's Forest Camp and the Cata-al War Museum. Your guide will also bring you to Bacong to see the century-old San Agustin de Hippo Church, known for its unusual design made of bricks. Before retreating to your hotel in Dumaguete, you will stop by the Negros Oriental Arts & Heritage Center.
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Day 6
Beautiful beach of Apo Island in Dumaguete

Day 6 - Day 6: Apo Island Tour

You will leave your hotel in Dumaguete and travel about 24km to Malatapay Boat Terminal. Here, you will board a boat that will sail you across the sea to Apo Island. This island has been very popular with tourists primarily because of its premier diving spots. It is tucked away in the southeast end of Negros Island and has been home to a wide variety of marine critters. Upon docking on the island, you will head to the turtle habitat to go swimming with these gentle sea creatures. Make sure to snap photos of the colorful fish living in the reef garden here, as well. Go swimming to your heart’s content and dive deeper into the waters to make the most out of your stay on the island. After getting out of the water, you can then go sunbathing on its powdery sand. If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, you can choose to hike to the Apo Lighthouse or the Apo View Deck. Your guide will lead you through the Habagat Eco-Trail, Witchy’s Trail, or David’s Trek, all of which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery. Afterward, you will return to your hotel in Dumaguete.
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Day 7
Beautiful Pescador Island in Cebu

Day 7 - Day 7: Kawasan Falls & Moalboal Sardine Run Tour

You will take a van from your Dumaguete hotel to a nearby harbor and catch a ferry to Cebu. From the pier, you will make your way to the town of Badian to see Kawasan Falls, a 40-meter-tall waterfall with cool natural springs and a relaxing environment. You will have to hike 1.5 kilometers uphill from the jump-off site to reach the site, but the trek will be worth it. Your guide will then transport you to Moalboal, which is renowned for its numerous white beaches. Pose for photographs on the beach before jumping aboard a boat that will take you to Pescador Island. Pescador translates to "fisherman" in Spanish, referring to the many fishermen who visit the island due to its surplus of seafood. You'll also see Turtle Point, where you will swim with sea tortoises, when on the island. You will go to Panagsama Beach next, where you can see the world-famous sardine run. Thousands of sardines assemble here and circle the shore. They were initially found on Pescador Island but moved off the coast of Panagsama Beach many years ago. Unlike the South African sardine run, this activity in Moalboal is accessible all year. After that, you'll head to your hotel in Argao.
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Day 8
Colorful flowers in Sirao Flower Farm in Cebu

Day 8 - Day 8: Cebu City Tour

After checking out of your hotel in Argao, you will depart for Cebu City, dubbed the Queen City of the South. It is the oldest city in the Philippines, making it home to several noteworthy historical monuments. One of the spots you will visit here is the Taoist Temple. This temple, which serves as the center of Taoism in Cebu, is tucked away in a private subdivision in Lahug. Following the temple tour, your guide will take you to the Basilica Minore Del Santo Nino and Magellan’s Cross. These two landmarks celebrate the Roman Catholic faith in the province. From there, you will proceed to the Heritage of Cebu Monument. Built in July 1997, this set of sculptures illustrate symbolic events in Cebu’s history. You will then walk to the nearby Yap-San Diego Ancestral Home, located just across the street from the monument. This ancestral home is said to be the first Chinese house built outside of China. Your journey will conclude with a visit to the highlands, specifically to the Temple of Leah and Sirao Flower Farm. The Temple of Leah is adorned with life-sized statues of Roman gladiators, lions, and angels, while Sirao Flower Farm is dotted with rare flowers like Celosia. Following that, a van will transport you to your Mandaue hotel.
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Day 9
Luli Island in Puerto Princesa Palawan

Day 9 - Day 9: Puerto Princesa Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour

You will fly to Puerto Princesa Airport from Mactan Airport for your Palawan adventure on Day 9. When you arrive, your guide will take you to the eastern coast of the province, where Honda Bay is located. This coastline is well-known for its white sand and abundant marine life. After having your fill of the scenery, you will then board a boat to begin your island-hopping trip. Starfish Island will be your first destination from the coast. This water-locked island is home to rock starfish and many other types of fish, including blooming puffs and rainbow parrotfish. From there, you will then sail to your next stop: Cowrie Island. Cowrie was named after the fact that it forms the shape of a seashell. It is the biggest island on Honda Bay and probably the most developed. In fact, there are restaurants, cabanas, and bars here. To cap off your tour, you will stop by Luli Island. Luli is also referred to as the sinking island because its sandbars disappear every high tide. Wade in the waters here and enjoy some sunbathing time before you sail back to the mainland and check-in at your hotel in Sabang.
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Day 10
Cafe in Baker's Hill in Palawan

Day 10 - Day 10: Puerto Princesa Underground River & City Tour

You will depart from your Sabang hotel in the morning and make your way to Sabang Wharf. A boat will be there to take you to the renowned Puerto Princesa Underground River. This subterranean river, which flows under the Saint Paul Mountain Range, was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. It encompasses one of the world's most impressive cave systems, featuring limestone karst landscapes and intact old-growth forests with distinctive wildlife. After sailing through the river's interior, you'll leave for the mainland, where your tour will continue at Baker's Hill. This bakery also functions as a theme park, selling a variety of baked goods and souvenirs. Following the Baker's Hill tour, you'll make your way to the historic Plaza Cuartel. It was once a military base, complete with a century-old Spanish garrison and tunnels. From the square, your guide will take you to Crocodile Farm. This research facility is dedicated to the conservation and study of Palawan's threatened animals, most especially crocodiles. Additionally, you'll see Mitra's Ranch, which has a view deck and ziplining facilities. The tour will end with a stroll along the Puerto Princesa Baywalk. You will then return to your Sabang hotel afterward.
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Day 11
View of Manila from a window seat

Day 11 - Day 11: Departure to Manila

From your accommodation in Sabang, you will board your van and head to the Puerto Princesa International Airport. Here, you will board a plane bound for the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila. Flight time typically takes less than two hours.
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What to bring

Face mask and Face shield
Extra clothes
Passport (Valid for 6 months from date of departure)
Swimwear and sunblock
Personal medicines

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.

The season for dolphin watching in Dumaguete is from March to October and is subject to weather and wind conditions. If off-season or on days when the northeast monsoon is strong, dolphin watching may not be possible. During Habagat/ Southwest monsoon Season (June-October), boat ride to Apo Island may be rough.

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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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