12-Day Cultural, Historical & Island Hopping Tour to Ilocos, Baguio, Bohol, Cebu & Puerto Princesa
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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
Spend your holidays touring the Philippines and visit cultural and historical places in Manila, Ilocos, Sagada, Benguet, and Cebu, and the beautiful islands in Bohol and Puerto Princesa with this 12-day tour package. This package comprises your entrance fees, accommodations, roundtrip flights, land and sea transfers, and service of guides.
Your first destination will be the walled area in Manila called Intramuros. It is one of the most significant historical places in the Philippines as it is where several important events during Spanish colonization and World War II took place.
Another stop is Vigan, which also offers multiple sites with historical significance. One of these is the popular Calle Crisologo, where you will find old Spanish residences, stores, and more. You will also pay a visit to Malacanang of the North in Ilocos Norte. You'll get to know about the late Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos and the events during his term.
Your guide will also take you to high locations like Benguet. The place is known for its Strawberry Farm located in the town of La Trinidad. Then, you'll explore Camp John Hay, one of Baguio's top tourist attractions with over 100 years of history. The Province of Cebu is also part of your itinerary. You'll stop by attractions like the Temple of Leah and Sirao Flower Farm and go swimming at Kawasan Falls.
In Bohol, you'll be treated to sumptuous local dishes during a Loboc River Cruise, plus visit the renowned Chocolate Hills. This package also includes visiting the beautiful islands dotting Honda Bay and going inside the Underground River in Puerto Princesa, Palawan.
Join this 12-day tour that will take you from Manila to the iconic landmarks of Ilocos, Sagada, Benguet, Cebu, Bohol, and Puerto Princesa. 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 3 - Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur (Ilocos Region)
Day 4 to 6 - Sagada and Benguet Tour (Cordillera Region)
Day 7 to 9 - Cebu and Bohol Tour (Central Visayas)
Day 10 to 11 - Puerto Princesa Tour (Palawan)
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
Activities
Island Hopping
Culture, Arts and Historical Tour
Daily itinerary
Day 1
Day 1 - Day 1: Intramuros Tour
On Day 1, you will arrive at Ninoy Aquino International Airport, where your guide will pick you up. You will then head to your hotel along Roxas Boulevard in Manila.
Your tour for this day will focus on Intramuros, a famous historic walled area in Manila with lots of cultural, religious, and historical sites. Your first stop is Fort Santiago, which dates back to the 16th century and is one of Manila's most important historical sites.
After the citadel is Plaza Roma, a public square where several events have taken place, like bullfights. You will then drop by Bahay Tsinoy, where you'll know about the early and present relationship between the Filipinos and ethnic Chinese.
You'll proceed to Casa Manila, a museum that displays furniture, artwork, decorative objects, and more, which portray the Spanish Colonial lifestyle. Next is the lovely San Diego Gardens that lie close to the 16th-century bastion, Baluarte De San Diego.
To complete your tour, your guide will take you to the San Agustin Church and Museum, the oldest stone church in the Philippines and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your last stop is the Manila Cathedral, originally a parish church that has gone through many reconstructions.
Read moreDay 2
Day 2 - Day 2: Laoag Tour
The second day will be spent in Laoag, the capital of Ilocos Norte. You will board a plane heading to Laoag Airport. Upon your arrival, your van will take you to your hotel in Laoag City.
The St. Williams Cathedral will serve as the starting point of your tour. Boasting an Italian-Renaissance architectural style, this structure was established in 1612. The cathedral has a belfry that has also become an attraction. The Sinking Bell Tower is said to be submerging into the soil every year.
Your guide will take you to Museo Ilocos Norte afterward. It is a small building yet has an expansive collection of unique relics that represent the heritage and culture of the people in the region, including the indigenous Ifugao tribes. You will also have a stroll at Aurora Park, which features a fountain with a statue of Maiden Pamulinawen.
You will then head to the town of Paoay. There you'll visit the Malacanang of the North, a presidential museum. You'll also drop by the 16th-century Paoay Church that is noted for its huge buttresses. Your tour ends at Marcos Museum, where the memorabilia and cenotaph of former Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos are put on display.
Read moreDay 3
Day 3 - Day 3: Vigan Tour
Day 3 will be your tour of the City of Vigan, one of the most popular locations in the Ilocos Region. After checking out of your Laoag hotel, your van will transfer you to your accommodation along Calle Crisologo, the most-visited site in Vigan.
You will first go to the National Museum (Ilocos Sur Complex). The Padre Burgos House, one of the city's notable historic structures, stands inside the complex, along with Ilocos Sur's Provincial Jail that was converted into a museum.
Your van will then take you to the neighboring town of Bantay, where you'll visit Bantay Church and Bell Tower. Next is Syquia Mansion Museum, where you'll learn about the lifestyle during Spanish colonization. You'll also drop by Pagburnayan Jar Factory, which is known for using old and authentic pottery methods.
Afterward, you will visit the former residence of the Crisologo political family that is now called the Crisologo Museum. A short walk away is the popular Calle Crisologo, which is packed with numerous well-preserved Spanish structures.
Another religious structure you'll visit is the 18th-century St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral. At the end of the tour, you'll get to see an array of animals at Baluarte.
Read moreDay 4
Day 4 - Day 4: Sagada Tour
On the fourth day, you will leave Vigan early in the morning and head to Mountain Province. Here you'll explore the town of Sagada, which has a cool climate, so it's best to gear up with jackets. Prepare for a long and bumpy ride as the road to your location can get rough. But you can expect some stunning views of mountain ranges along the way.
Underneath Sagada are more than 60 caves, one of which is called Sugong Cave. You will see here the town's most iconic attraction, the hanging coffins. Locals have been practicing this burial practice for more than 2,000 years already.
You will have to go through Echo Valley to get to Sugong Cave. Plenty of caverns, trails, and lush greenery occupy this natural area. Your next stop will be another cave, called the Sumaguing Cave. It is the biggest one in Sagada and has many natural rock formations. In addition to bats, you can also find natural streams and pools of cold water inside.
Your last stop is the Bontoc Tribal Museum, where you'll learn about the story of the region's indigenous groups, including their culture. You will later be on your way to your Sagada accommodation.
Read moreDay 5
Day 5 - Day 5: Benguet Tour
On Day 5, you will check out of your hotel in Sagada and go to Benguet, also known as the Salad Bowl of the Philippines. This province boasts farms planted with either fruits and vegetables or flowers.
You will first visit Atok Sakura Flowers. This park has more than 30 Sakura trees, and the flowers are yet to bloom fully. The cherry blossom trees, which the Japanese government gifted, were planted back in 2016.
Another spectacular attraction in Benguet is the Northern Blossom. This spot will delight you with various vibrant flowers, from roses and sunflowers to snapdragons and Matthiola. The place will also give you a scenic view of the surrounding mountain ranges.
Your next stop is the 2nd Highest Point. It is 7,400 feet above sea level, which is the second-highest altitude in the Philippines. This attraction is situated along Halsema Highway that traverses municipalities in Benguet and Mountain Province.
Your guide will then take you to a Spanish Trail, which was constructed during the Spanish colonial era. It extends up to almost 3km and features cave-like tunnels. Before going to your Baguio hotel, you will have an enjoyable strawberry-picking at La Trinidad Strawberry Farm.
Read moreDay 6
Day 6 - Day 6: Baguio Tour
On the sixth day, you will explore one of the most-visited locations in the Philippines, the City of Baguio. It has a cool climate and stunning attractions that draw people to the place. You'll get to explore magnificent parks, as well as visit numerous historical sites in the area.
Your first stop is the Philippine Military Academy, a premier educational facility that goes back to the 19th century. Next, you'll visit the official summer residence of the Philippine President, which is known as The Mansion. In front of the structure is the famous Pool of Pines.
Another popular site in Baguio is Camp John Hay. Previously a US military base used during World War II, the location is now a go-to destination for dining, shopping, adventure, and more. Then, you'll be visiting the city's lovely parks, including Mines View Park, which rewards visitors with a splendid view of an abandoned copper and gold mines.
The following two parks are Wright Park and Centennial Park. Your tour will conclude at Good Shepherd Convent, where you can purchase some of the favorite local goodies like peanut brittle and ube. Afterward, you will head to your Manila hotel.
Read moreDay 7
Day 7 - Day 7: Cebu City Tour
On Day 7, you will see some of the main highlights of Cebu City. After you check out of your accommodation in Manila, you'll head to Ninoy Aquino International Airport and board a plane heading to Mactan-Cebu International Airport.
The first attraction you'll see is the Taoist Temple. This multi-layered structure was established in 1972 and is recognized for its entrance that resembles the Great Wall of China. Your van will then take you downtown Cebu to see the Philippines' oldest Roman Catholic Church named Basilica Minore Del Santo Nino. Standing outside the building is Magellan's Cross, one of the most important historical sites in Cebu.
The Heritage of Cebu Monument is your next stop. This spectacular sculpture can be found in Parían Park. This blend of concrete, brass, bronze, and steel depicts Cebu's significant past events. Next is Yap - San Diego Ancestral House, an old residence dating back to the 1700s.
Afterward, you'll visit the Temple of Leah, a shrine built in 2012 to show the undying love of a Cebuano to his wife. Before traveling to your Mandaue hotel, you will first stop by the Sirao Flower Farm, which is dubbed the Little Amsterdam of Cebu.
Read moreDay 8
Day 8 - Day 8: Bohol Countryside Tour
The eighth day is dedicated to the stunning and peaceful countryside of Bohol. After checking out of your accommodation in Mandaue, you'll get on a ferry bound for Bohol. The first attraction in your itinerary is the Corella Tarsier Sanctuary. While tarsiers one of the smallest primates in the world, the Bohol tarsiers have large, sensitive eyes, so be sure not to use flash when taking pictures.
Next, you'll go on a Loboc River Cruise, a must-try experience in the province. You'll get the chance to dine in a floating restaurant and enjoy fascinating views while you traverse the Loboc River. Then, you will visit Baclayon Church, which was restored in 2017 after being severely damaged during the 2013 earthquake.
Two attractions await you in the town of Bilar. The first one is the Butterfly Conservatory, which serves as a breeding ground for a variety of colorful butterflies. The other spot is the Bilar Forest. It is a 2km man-made forest planted with lush mahogany trees.
Your final stop is the world-famous Chocolate Hills. These geological formations are covered with green grass that turns brown during the dry season. After the tour, you will travel to your Cebu hotel.
Read moreDay 9
Day 9 - Day 9: Kawasan Falls & Moalboal Sardine Run Tour
On Day 9, you will visit the other top attractions in Cebu. The first destination in your itinerary is the town of Badian. It is home to Kawasan Falls, which features three cascades and natural pools and lagoons. For the best experience, you may add canyoneering to your scheduled plans. In this activity, you will go trekking, swimming, jumping from waterfalls, and more.
After that, you will be on your way to Moalboal. This small coastal town is one of the go-to diving places because of its healthy coral ecosystem. This location also serves as a jump-off point for visiting the beautiful islands of Cebu, including your next attractions.
You will first visit Pescador Island. It is a tiny rocky island that features a marine park with impressive corals, colorful fishes, and other species, with some of them being endangered. Next is the appropriately named Turtle Island. Here you will have a close encounter with sea turtles.
Lastly, you will see the exceptional Sardine Run at Panagsama Beach. You'll get to see millions of sardines swimming together. These tiny creatures will stun you whenever they form various shapes. You will later head back to your accommodation in Mandaue via van.
Read moreDay 10
Day 10 - Day 10: Puerto Princesa Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour
On this day, you will visit more islands, but this time, they are located in Palawan. Your van will drive you to Mactan-Cebu International Airport, where you'll ride a plane flying to Puerto Princesa International Airport.
Once you reach Palawan, you will spend the entire day visiting a few beautiful islands at the well-known Honda Bay. It is situated near the City of Puerto Princesa.
Your island-hopping tour starts at Star Fish Island. As its name suggests, you can expect to find starfishes of various colors in the place, with some lying on the shore and others in the water. You can also spot some yellowtail snappers and pufferfish while snorkeling.
Your next destination is the biggest island in Honda Bay, called Cowrie Island. Distinguished for its shell-like shape, the island offers facilities for picnics and dining. Feel free to swim in the crystal-clear waters or take a stroll along the shore.
Luli Island is your final stop. It is a sandbar that can only be seen during low tide as it submerges into the water during high tide. After a fun-filled day, you'll return to mainland Palawan and go straight to your Sabang hotel.
Read moreDay 11
Day 11 - Day 11: Puerto Princesa Underground River & City Tour
On Day 11, you will explore the vibrant Puerto Princesa City. Your van will fetch you at your accommodation in Sabang and take you to your first stop, the world-renowned Puerto Princesa Underground River.
You will ride a boat at Sabang Boat Terminal and be on your way to Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. You'll find here loads of rock formations and limestone cliffs. Lavish flora and fauna also occupy this natural area.
Your city tour will start afterward. The Baker's Hills is your first stop. You can purchase here goodies to take or home or consume during the tour. The next attraction is a historical site, the Plaza Cuartel, a restored ruin of an old garrison that witnessed World War II.
Then, you will visit the Crocodile Farm. Here you will see small and big, as well as various species, of crocodiles inside the building. Your following stop will reward you with fantastic scenery. Mitra's Ranch, which is set on a hill, offers a sweeping view of Puerto Princesa.
Your tour ends at Puerto Princesa Baywalk, lined with palm trees and an ideal place to relax. You'll return to your Sabang hotel after the city tour.
Read moreDay 12
Day 12 - Day 12: Departure to Manila
This is the last day of your 12-day tour package. You'll be going back to the City of Manila. Once you have checked out your Sabang accommodation, your van will drive you to Puerto Princesa International Airport. The plane will land at Ninoy Aquino International Airport after a short flight.
Read moreWhat 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.
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.
