12-Day Philippines Vacation Package to Cordillera Mountains & Dumaguete Apo Island from Manila

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Description

Summary

Tour starts

Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines

Duration

12 days

Ending place

Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines

Languages:

English

Difficulty:

Easy

Minimum age:

None

Description

Discover the historical sites of Manila City and Ilocos region, the highlands of Sagada, Banaue, Benguet, and Tarlac, and the natural beauty of Dumaguete City with this 12-day tour package to the Philippines. This package comprises entrance fees, roundtrip flights, land and sea transfers, service of guides, and budget, comfort, or quality hotels.

Upon arriving at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila, you will kickstart your vacation with a visit to Intramuros. This walled district consists of several historic buildings that played significant roles during the Spanish colonial period in the country. Afterward, you will head northwest and land in the region of Ilocos.

Ilocos features the Malacanang of the North, a presidential residence-turned-museum, and the Bangui Windmills. Travelers can also walk on the cobblestones of Calle Crisologo here. From there, you will continue north to Sagada and neighboring highlands. Go spelunking in Sagada's numerous caves, then visit the Banaue Museum to see how the local tribes live.

Next, you will tour The Mansion and Wright Park in Baguio before picking berries at the La Trinidad Strawberry Farm in Benguet. You will then leave Benguet and head back south. On your way, you will spend a day in the Tarlac province to hike up the towering Mt. Pinatubo. When you return to the mountain's base, your guide will escort you back to Manila City.

You will then board a plane bound for Dumaguete. In this coastal town, you can find the decades-old Silliman University and the pristine Apo Island. Lounge on the isle's beautiful shore or take a plunge and discover marine life underwater. Following your time there, you will fly back to Manila City as your adventure comes to a close.

Immerse in the culture of Manila, Ilocos, Sagada, Banaue, Benguet, Tarlac, and Dumaguete with this 12-day vacation package. Check availability by choosing a date.

Included

11 nights accommodation (budget category)

11 days breakfast

11 lunch

All flights with 20kgs baggage allowance

Day 1 - Intramuros Tour (Manila)

Day 2 to 4 - Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur (Ilocos Region)

Day 5 to 8 - Sagada, Banaue and Benguet Tour (Cordillera Region)

Day 9 - Mt. Pinatubo Tour

Day 10 to 11 - Dumaguete Tour (Central Visayas)

Day 12 - Back to Manila

All transportation to and from included activities and destinations

All environmental fees, port fees, and all other applicable taxes

Map

Attractions

Philippine Military Academy

General Yamashita Surrender Site

Ifugao Museum

Tappiya Waterfalls

Bontoc Village Museum

Syquia Mansion Museum

Pagburnayan Jar Factory

National Museum of the Philippines Ilocos Complex

Crisologo Museum

Bantay Church Bell Tower

Rizal Boulevard

St. Catherine of Alexandria Church

Apo Island

Calle Crisologo

Cape Bojeador Lighthouse

Malacañang of the North

Paoay Church

St. William Cathedral

St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral

Marcos Museum & Mausoleum or Balay Ti Ili

Bangui Windmills

La Paz Sand Dunes

Museo Ilocos Norte

Kapurpurawan Rock Formation

Patapat Viaduct

Strawberry Farm

Centennial Park

Good Shepherd Convent

Sumaguing Cave

Echo Valley

Baluarte de San Diego

Plaza Roma

Banaue Museum

Northern Blossom Flower Farm

Cata-al World War 2 Museum

Lab-as Seafood Restaurant

Sidlakang Negros Village

Valencia Forest Camp

San Agustin Church Dumaguete

Negros Oriental Arts & Heritage

Dumaguete Public Market

Claytown Pottery

Dumaguete Campanario

Pasuquin Salt Stand

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Activities

Culture, Arts & Historical Tours

Daily itinerary

Day 1

Baluarte de San Diego inside Intramuros in Manila

Day 1 - Day 1: Intramuros Tour

On the first day, your guide will meet you at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport and transport you to your hotel in Manila City or along Roxas Boulevard. You will then see the historical sites that were built within the walled district. The first location is Fort Santiago, a fortress that contained prisoners during the Spanish occupation of the area. After that, you will make your way to the historic Plaza Roma. It is a public square that hosted various events during the Spanish era, including bullfights. Then you will learn about Filipinos' ties with the ethnic Chinese began and developed over the years by visiting Bahay Tsinoy. Following that, there will be a tour to Casa Manila, a museum set within a classic Spanish estate. You will then walk across the grounds of San Diego Gardens to the Baluarte De San Diego. From here, you will make your way to two magnificent churches. The San Agustin Church and Museum, which was founded in 1607, is the first. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is notable for its Baroque architecture. The day will come to a close with a visit to the Manila Cathedral, a parish church converted into a massive cathedral in 1958.

Day 2

Day 2 - Day 2: Laoag Tour

The next day, you will fly to Ilocos Norte. When you arrive at Laoag Airport, a vehicle will pick you up and transport you to your accommodation in Laoag City. Once you've settled in, your tour guide will take you to St. Williams Cathedral, also known as the Laoag Cathedral. This Renaissance-style church was built in 1612 and has been extensively refurbished since then. The Sinking Bell Tower may also be seen from the church grounds. The stone structure is built on a sand base, which supposedly causes it to sink about an inch each year. Then there's a trip to Aurora Park. The Tobacco Monopoly Monument, a statue that dates back to 1881, is also located in this public park. After that, you will take a van from Laoag to Malacanang in the north. Before it became a museum, this was the late Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos' home. After checking out the exhibits, you will go to the Paoay Church. This chapel was erected in 1710 and is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Lastly, you will drop by the Marcos Museum before heading back to your hotel. Here, you can view the wax model of the late president alongside some of his belongings.

Day 3

Day 3 - Day 3: Pagudpud Tour

Your guide will pick you up from your Laoag hotel on the third day and drive you to Burgos, where you will see the Cape Bojeador Lighthouse. This Spanish Colonial-era lighthouse built atop Vigia de Nagpartian Hill offers views of the scenic Cape Bojeador. From there, you will travel to the well-known Ilocos Norte Bangui Windmills, which consist of twenty-six 70-meter-tall wind turbines. The turbines stretch in a single direction along Bangui Bay's 9-kilometer shore. Your next destination will be the Patapat Viaduct, a coastal bridge that connects the Ilocos Region to the bordering province of Cagayan Valley. Afterward, your guide will drive you south to Agua Grande to savor the natural beauty of the park. Your next visit will be Paraiso ni Anton, where you can find a mountain stream that locals believe to be miraculous. Following your time in the grotto, you will visit the spectacular Kapurpurawan Rock Formation. Feel free to take photos by the milky white, streamlined limestones of this ancient rock formation. You will then stop at Pasuquin Salt Stand, where locals sell fresh-made sea salt during the off-season, before heading back to your Laoag hotel. You can even go on a 4x4 expedition across the La Paz Sand Dunes if you're feeling adventurous.

Day 4

Day 4 - Day 4: Vigan Tour

A van will drive you from your Laoag hotel to your new lodging along Calle Crisologo in Vigan City. The first destination on your city tour will be the National Museum of Ilocos Sur Complex. This heritage center commemorates the late Elpidio Quirino, the sixth Philippine President, and the late reform-advocate priest Padre Burgos. You will then proceed to Bantay to see the Bantay Church and Bell Tower. Both structures were extensively damaged during World War II. Fortunately, they were thoroughly reconstructed in the following years. After admiring the view from the cathedral, you will visit the well-known Pagburnayan Jar Factory. These earthenware jars have a long history dating back to the Spanish conquest. Following that, you will continue to the Crisologo Museum, which is the ancestral house of the Crisologo political family. Then you will take a stroll along Calle Crisologo, a cobblestone street lined with classic Spanish residences. After that, you will go to the St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral before concluding your day at the Baluarte Zoo. Among the species in this park are Bengal tigers, deer, and ostriches. After your time with the animals, your guide will accompany you back to your hotel.

Day 5

Day 5 - Day 5: Sagada Tour

On the fifth day, you will take a van early in the morning and go to Sagada town. After you arrive, you will check into a hotel in town before resuming your tour. Over 60 caverns can be found in this rural area, the most notable of which being Sugong Cave, your first destination. This cave is well-known for the coffins that hang from its limestone walls. Hanging coffins is an aspect of the natives' burial rituals, dating back more than 2,000 years. On your way back to town, you will walk through Echo Valley's gorgeous surroundings. This ravine makes a great spot for resting because limestone mountains and beautiful trees line it. You will go from the valley to Sumaguing Cave, the largest cavern in this mountain community. The two-hour journey through its chambers will take you to rock formations that have formed throughout time. Following your exploration of the tunnels and valley, you will conclude your day with a visit to the Bontoc Tribal Museum. This cultural center displays many artworks that illustrate the rich history of the Ifugao tribe, who call these areas home. Along with the paintings, a rebuilt Ifugao village lies behind the museum to give you a greater understanding of how they lived.

Day 6

Day 6 - Day 6: Banaue Tour

You will then drive south to the Banaue highlands, which is known for its majestic rice terraces. The amphitheater-style rice fields are a prominent and frequently-visited attraction in Batad town. These farming plots have a distinct and sophisticated way of growing rice and have been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After taking photos of the landscape, you will head to the Batad Banaue Viewpoint. This observation deck, located approximately a half-hour walk from the main road, provides a fantastic view of the amphitheater-style rice terraces. If you don't wish to stay at the viewpoint, you can go on to the Tappiya Waterfall as an alternative. You can also choose to skip the waterfalls and instead explore Banga-an Village. This humble farming community sits below the Batad intersection and features several native Ifugao homes. You will also learn about the local's way of living while you are here. To cap off your day trip, you will pay a visit to the Banaue Museum, which has an impressive collection of ancestral artifacts from old Igorot tribes. Aside from the items, a section of the museum is dedicated to the capture of Japanese Imperial Army General Tomoyuki Yamashita.

Day 7

Day 7 - Day 7: Baguio Tour

The next day, you will check out of your Banaue hotel and travel to Baguio City. Your guide will then take you to the Ifugao Museum in Kiangan after you've settled into your accommodation in the town proper. This museum houses various Ifugao antiques, tools, and headhunting machetes. You will also drop by General Yamashita's surrender location while in town. From there, you will visit the Philippine Military Academy's Baguio campus. The grounds of this institution are well-kept and contain old tanks and other historical military equipment. You will then proceed to The Mansion. Built in 1908, this home served as a summer resort for US governors-general before becoming the official summer residence of the Philippine President. Following your tour of The Mansion, your guide will transport you to Camp John Hay. This 246-hectare facility was previously a United States Army military recreation center. Today, the property has been turned into a vacation spot that also features a museum, boutiques, and a convention space. Following that, you'll drive to Mines View Park to enjoy a picturesque view of Itogon's mining village. You will visit Wright Park and Centennial Park next, where you can enjoy Baguio's natural beauty. Lastly, you will drop by the Good Shepherd Convent, which offers local treats.

Day 8

Sunflowers in a flower farm in Atok Benguet

Day 8 - Day 8: Benguet Tour

On Day 8, your guide will fetch you from your Baguio hotel and tour you in the surrounding towns. First on the list is La Trinidad in the Benguet highlands. This rural community is best known for the La Trinidad Strawberry Farm, which the local Benguet State University owns and cares for. During your visit, you can pick your own berries and buy strawberry delicacies such as jam, wine, and pastries. After your time at the farm, you will travel to Atok to see the Atok Sakura Flowers. This park is filled with around 30 Sakura trees from Japan. The Kochi Prefecture gave them to the local government back in 2016. From there, you will head to Northern Blossoms. Aside from their vast fields of flowers, the garden provides views of Mt. Pulag and Mt. Timbak as well. You will then drive to the 2nd Highest Point. This observation deck is situated in the Barangays of Cattubo and Paoay. Located at 7,400 feet above sea level, it is the second-highest point in the Philippine highway system, thus the name. After that, you will finish your day at the Spanish Trail before going back to your Baguio hotel.

Day 9

Rocky trail going to the peak of Mt. Pinatubo

Day 9 - Day 9: Mt. Pinatubo Tour

The next morning, you will depart from Baguio and drive to Tarlac province to hike up Mt. Pinatubo. This active volcano made headlines when it erupted in 1991. The massive blast had left about 10 billion pesos worth of damage and was considered one of the biggest eruptions in the world. After reaching Tarlac, you will first register at the Sta. Juliana Tourism Center. From there, you will board a 4x4 vehicle that will take you across the rough terrain that leads to the mountain's base and jump-off site. You will also pass through Crow Valley that features sand cliffs. From the mountain's base, you will leave your 4x4 ride and continue on foot. The trail up to the peak stretches for about 3.4 miles. On the way up, you will find some lava sand formations left behind from the volcano's 1991 eruption. When you reach the summit, you'll be greeted by the turquoise waters of the crater lake. Rest by the water or enjoy a hearty meal after your hike. Make sure to take photos of the beautiful lake as well before you head back to the tourism center. Afterward, your guide will drive you to your hotel in Manila.

Day 10

Facade of Anthropological Museum in Dumaguete

Day 10 - Day 10: Dumaguete Tour

For Day 10, you will leave Manila and catch a flight to Dumaguete City. When you land in Dumaguete Airport, your guide will pick you up and transport you to your hotel within the city proper. After settling down, you will go to Silliman University. This historic institution first opened its doors in 1901 as a boys-only elementary school. Following your visit to the university, you will take a stroll down Rizal Boulevard. The St. Catherine de Alexandria Cathedral is the next destination on your tour. Its halls are decorated with ornately carved altarpieces and elegant lighting. The Dumaguete Campanario, another religious monument, is located next to the church. From there, you will visit the Dumaguete Public Market to buy local treats and souvenirs. Afterward, you will visit the Provincial Capitol and Freedom Park before visiting the Clayton Pottery. Following the pottery, you will travel to Sidlakang Negros Village. This vibrant center offers some of the greatest crafts and restaurants in the province. Next, you will have lunch at the Lab-as Seafood restaurant before continuing to Valencia's Forest Camp. Then you will go to the Cata-al War Museum. Finally, you will finish the day by visiting the San Agustin Church and the Negros Oriental Arts & Heritage Center.

Day 11

Day 11 - Day 11: Apo Island Tour

Your guide will transport you to the Malatapay Boat Terminal on the eleventh day. From there, you will sail to Apo Island to spend the day exploring its tropical charms. Known as a diving haven and its thriving marine life, it has drawn divers from all over the world. When you dock on the island, you will visit the turtle conservation center. The facility allows travelers to see these friendly sea animals up close, helping them better understand the turtles. After that, you'll have free time to dive into the beautiful seas of the island. Make sure to put on goggles to help you see the underwater ecosystem and the coral garden teeming with fishes of varying colors. Following your time in the water, you can set out a towel on the beach and soak up some sun. Travelers can also choose to walk up to the island's lighthouse. From its observation deck, you can get a wonderful view of this paradise-like island. When you've had enough adventure for the day, you will hop on a boat and sail back to the mainland. Your guide will then escort you back to your hotel.

Day 12

Day 12 - Day 12: Departure to Manila

As your trip wraps up, you will check out of your Dumaguete hotel and head to the airport. While waiting for your flight, browse through the airport's stalls for last-minute shopping. You will then board a plane that will take you back to Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila City.

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.

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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12-Day Philippines Vacation Package to Cordillera Mountains & Dumaguete Apo Island from Manila

Description

Summary

Description

Included

Map

Attractions

Activities

Daily itinerary

Day 1 - Day 1: Intramuros Tour

Day 2 - Day 2: Laoag Tour

Day 3 - Day 3: Pagudpud Tour

Day 4 - Day 4: Vigan Tour

Day 5 - Day 5: Sagada Tour

Day 6 - Day 6: Banaue Tour

Day 7 - Day 7: Baguio Tour

Day 8 - Day 8: Benguet Tour

Day 9 - Day 9: Mt. Pinatubo Tour

Day 10 - Day 10: Dumaguete Tour

Day 11 - Day 11: Apo Island Tour

Day 12 - Day 12: Departure to Manila

What to bring

Good to know

Accommodation

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