12-Day Philippines Island Hopping & Countryside Holiday Package to Palawan Island, Cebu City & Bohol

Scenic view of Chocolate Hills in Bohol
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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

Go on a 12-day adventure across the Philippines' breathtaking countrysides and pristine beaches with this tour package. This trip will take you to the top spots in Manila City, Tarlac, Bohol Island, Cebu City, Puerto Princesa City, Port barton, and the El Nido Islands. It also comes complete with hotels, daily breakfast, roundtrip flights, sea and land transfers, entrance fees, and the service of guides.

Your tour begins when you land in the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Your guide will pick you up and drive you to Intramuros, a walled district within Manila. It houses several historic buildings that date back to the Spanish colonization period in the country. 

You will then leave Manila and travel north to reach Tarlac. Here, you will spend a day hiking up Mt. Pinatubo, an active volcano that features a gorgeous crater lake. After this, you will catch a flight bound for the sunny province of Bohol. 

When you arrive, you will visit the idyllic Cambuhat Village, the secluded Pamilacan Island, and the famous Chocolate Hills. You will also join the Loboc River Cruise, where you can enjoy a delicious meal on a boat.

Afterward, you will take a ferry to Cebu. You will then make your way to the Temple of Leah and the Sirao Flower Farm before exploring Pescador Island. Next on the itinerary is a flight to Puerto Princesa. 

Here, you will go island hopping in Honda Bay and sail along the world-renowned Puerto Princesa Underground River. Finally, you will visit the peaceful village of Port Barton before ending your vacation with a dip in the azure waters of  El Nido's Big Lagoon. 

Discover the historic spots in Manila and the natural marvels of Tarlac, Bohol, Cebu, Puerto Princesa, Port barton, and El Nido with this 11-day tour package. Check availability by choosing a date.

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Included

11 nights accommodation (budget category)
11 days breakfast
11 lunch
All flights with 20kgs baggage allowance
Day 1 - Intramuros Tour (Manila)
Day 2 - Mt. Pinatubo Tour
Day 3 to 7 - Bohol and Cebu Tour (Central Visayas)
Day 8 to 11 - Puerto Princesa, Port Barton and El Nido 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

Activities

Island Hopping
Culture, Arts & Historical Tours

Daily itinerary

Day 1
Park inside Intramuros in Manila

Day 1 - Day 1: Intramuros Tour

Upon landing in Manila City, you will have a tour of the walled district of Intramuros. It was the administrative capital of the Philippines under the Spanish period, so it features cobblestone streets and historic sites. After entering the district, the first thing you will do is see Fort Santiago, a Spanish stone fortress erected in 1593. The fort formerly served as a prison for national hero and writer Jose Rizal. Today, it is used for open-air theater and picnics. Your tour guide will then take you to Plaza Roma, one of Intramuros' three main squares. Following your time in the plaza, you will walk to Bahay Tsinoy. This museum is organized into 12 parts that highlight early Chinese people's contributions in the country. Following your museum tour, you will go to Casa Manila, a classic Spanish house that has been converted into a museum where you can learn more about the Philippines' history. After that, you will visit San Diego Gardens and the Baluarte De San Diego. This bastion, which dates from the 16th century, is one of Intramuros' earliest stone defenses. Before traveling to your accommodation, your final two spots will be the San Agustin Church and Museum and the Manila Cathedral.
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Day 2
Beautiful view of Mount Pinatubo Crater Lake

Day 2 - Day 2: Mt. Pinatubo Tour

The following day, your guide will pick you up from your Manila hotel and bring you south to the Tarlac province. Here, you will allot a day to hike up Mt. Pinatubo. This active volcano is famous for its devastating 1991 eruption. The explosion was the second-largest terrestrial eruption of the twentieth century, destroying 8,000 homes. After reaching the province, you will drop by the Sta. Juliana Tourism Center to board a 4x4 vehicle. Your guide will then drive you to the mountain's base, where the jump-off point is located. As you make your way there, you will pass through Crow Valley. This area is known for its fascinating sand cliffs and rough, uneven terrain. Following about an hour of rough roads, you will arrive at the jump-off point and begin climbing up the mountain on foot. The 3.4-mile hiking trail takes hikers between an hour and two hours to finish. You will also come across some lava sand formations left behind from the volcano's 1991 eruption on your way up. At the peak, you will see the mountain's vast crater lake filled with emerald waters. Before beginning your descent and returning to your Manila hotel, feel free to pose by the lakeside and have your lunch.
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Day 3
Fresh oysters in Bohol Cambuhat River

Day 3 - Day 3: Bohol Cambuhat Tour

Your guide will pick you up from your Manila City hotel on Day 3. For the next portion of your trip, you will board a plane heading for Panglao International Airport in Bohol Island. You will be taken to your Panglao Island hotel when you arrive. After settling in, you'll go on a tour of the island's peaceful Cambuha Village. This hidden gem sits in the town of Buenavista in the northwest part of Bohol and has grown in popularity over the years. It's most famous for its lush natural environment and tranquil ambiance. Then, at the Daet Bridge, you'll board a paddle boat for a scenic cruise along the Cambuhat River. This tourist destination offers a breath of fresh air because it is lined by rich greeneries such as mangroves and nipa trees. After that, you will disembark from the boat and visit the Cambuhat Oyster Farm. This farm is the major source of revenue for the community and offers stable jobs for the residents. Take your time learning about oysters and how they are raised, harvested, and prepared here. To round off your stay, you will be treated to a delicious meal of fresh oysters.
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Day 4
Aerial view of Pamilacan Island in Bohol

Day 4 - Day 4: Pamilacan Island Tour

The next day, a vehicle will pick you up from your Panglao accommodation and transport you to a port in Baclayon. From here, you will take a boat to Pamilacan Island. This picturesque island is located in the center of the Bohol Sea, approximately 12.5 kilometers from Bohol Island. Some parts of the island are still free of man-made structures, and the entire area is home to less than 2,000 people. As you make your way to the island, keep an eye out for aquatic life. Due to the bay's rich environment, there have been sightings of dolphins and whale sharks. As soon as you arrive on the island, you will be greeted with stunning white sands and clear waters. You may go snorkeling here to see the vibrant ecosystem under the tides. The bright corals that host the many fish species will also be visible. You can relax on the gorgeous beach while soaking up some sun in addition to swimming. You can then visit the island's old Spanish fortification once you've had your fill of the beach and its waves. Standing in the northeast coast, this 200-year-old fortress was intended to keep pirates at bay. After this, you will sail back to the mainland to return to your hotel.
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Day 5
Chocolate Hills in Bohol

Day 5 - Day 5: Bohol Countryside Tour

On the fifth day of your trip, your guide will pick you up and drive you to the Corella Tarsier Sanctuary. Here, you will find groups of Tarsiers, which are among the smallest species of primates worldwide. Following your time with the tarsiers, your guide will transport you to the Loboc River. You will then board a boat by the dock that will take you on a Loboc River Cruise. As you sail along the river, you will be served a buffet lunch of local dishes. The staff will also sing famous Filipino songs to keep you entertained while you eat. You will then visit the Baclayon Church after the voyage. This church is a National Cultural Treasure and has a crystal chandelier and an altar with gold-inlaid sculptures. The Butterfly Conservatory, where butterflies are grown and cared for, will be your next stop. Afterward, you will continue to the Bilar Forest, where you can take photos amid the mahogany trees. Since they were planted in the 20th century, most of the trees in this man-made space have a consistent height. Finally, you'll visit the world-famous Chocolate Hills before returning to your accommodation. In the summer, this set of hills changes from green to brown, resembling mounds of chocolate.
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Day 6
Siaro Flower Farm in Cebu

Day 6 - Day 6: Cebu City Tour

You will then take a boat from Bohol Island to Cebu City. When you arrive in the city, a guide will drive you to your Mandaue hotel. The Taoist Temple is the first destination on your trip. The property has towering buildings and an archway inspired by the Great Wall of China. It is also located on a hill, providing a panoramic view of Cebu. The Basilica Minore Del Santo Nino, the Philippines' oldest Roman Catholic church, is next on the itinerary. Another significant historical site is the Magellan's Cross, which sits outside the church. It was planted in 1521 by adventurer Ferdinand Magellan. From there, you will proceed to the Heritage of Cebu Monument. This attraction depicts important historical events in Cebu, such as the Battle of Mactan. Following that, you will go to the Yap - San Diego Ancestral House. This mansion dates back to the 17th century and contains various antiques. Afterward, you will visit the Temple of Leah. This regal temple was built in 2012 for a local's wife. The rest of the day will be spent in the last stop: the Sirao Flower Farm. This farm is popularly known as the "Little Amsterdam of Cebu" because of its vivid blooms.
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Day 7
Kawasan Falls in Cebu

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

From your hotel, your guide will drive you to Badian town. Here, you will find the majestic Kawasan Falls. This multi-leveled cascade draws tourists thanks to its cool waters that are perfect for swimming. Travelers can also get on a floating bamboo raft to pass directly under the falls and feel the water wash over them. After your visit to the falls, you will travel to Moalboal town. Several white-sand beaches can be reached from this town’s shoreline. Among them is Pescador Island, a rocky haven filled with colorful corals and schools of fish. Feel free to put on some snorkeling gear to get a closer look at the underwater ecosystem. Next, you will set sail towards Turtle Island. You may swim alongside these gentle marine animals at this isle, which serves as a shelter for them. After spending time with the turtles, you'll return to the mainland before moving on to Panagsama Beach for your last activity for the day: the Sardine Run. This event takes place just a few meters off the town's shore. After a quick diving lesson, a guide will take you underwater to witness the natural phenomenon firsthand. Millions of sardines join in the race, forming silvery walls as they swim together.
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Day 8
Aerial view of Luli Island in Palawan

Day 8 - Day 8: Puerto Princesa Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour

For Day 8, you will depart from your Mandaue hotel and catch a flight heading for Palawan Island. Your guide will then pick you up with a van from the Puerto Princesa Airport and take you to your accommodation in Sabang. You will then head to Honda Bay for a day of island hopping once you've settled in. This bay is best known for its white-sand beach and crystal-clear waters, which are ideal for swimming. You will then board a boat from the shore to begin your tour of the bay's gorgeous islands. The first destination is Star Fish Island, aptly named because of the numerous starfish species that you can find along the sandbar. You will then cruise to Cowrie Island, the bay's biggest island. The name of the island comes from its shell-like form. Dive directly into the island's surrounding seas without fear of jellyfish since nets have been installed to keep them out. Finally, your island-hopping adventure will come to a close on Luli Island. Tourists frequently visit to stroll along the sandbar. This stretch of sand is known as a "disappearing" sandbar because it only appears when the tide is low. You will then sail back to the mainland after your stay here.
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Day 9
Boardwalk at Puerto Princesa Palawan

Day 9 - Day 9: Puerto Princesa Underground River and City Tour

The next day, you will trade the sea and the sand for a river and the bustle of the city center. Your guide will take you to Sabang Wharf, where you will hop on a boat to start your tour. Your first destination will be the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site home to many local animals and plants. Your guide will bring you to a paddle boat that will take you on a trip down the world-famous Puerto Princesa Underground River when you arrive at the refuge. Spectacular limestone structures may be seen when you sail through the cave that the river passes through. After the cruise, you will head back to the shoreline and ride another boat back to the mainland. Your guide will then escort you to Baker's Hill, where you can buy delectable pastries to take home. Then, you will head to Plaza Cuartel, which has a rebuilt World War II garrison. From there, you will make your way to the Crocodile Farm. You will travel to Mitra's Ranch after your visit to the animal conservation facility. This park is located on a hilltop and offers a spectacular view of the city below. Your day will then come to a close on the Puerto Princesa Baywalk.
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Day 10
Beautiful beach at Port Barton Palawan

Day 10 - Day 10: Port Barton Island Hopping Tour

You will check out of your Sabang hotel and travel to Port Barton for the next leg of the trip. This town is considered a hidden treasure since it is not as developed as other tourist destinations on the island of Palawan. After reaching the town, you will head to the port and take a boat for your island-hopping excursion. The 12-hectare Inaladelan Island is the first stop, and it's a camping paradise with kayaking and beach volleyball. During the hatching season, which occurs in January, visitors may also witness turtles hatch on the beach. The Luli Sandbar, which gets its name from its natural tendency to rise from then sink into the water, is next on the agenda. It's a fantastic place to view sunsets and search for starfish. From there, you will sail to the Turtle Snorkeling spot to see these aquatic creatures in their native habitat. Next, you will go snorkeling in a fish and coral reef zone teeming with colorful marine life. As you end your day, your boat will ferry you back to the mainland. Once you return to the shore, your guide will pick you up in a van and drive you straight to your Lio hotel.
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Day 11
White sand beach of Miniloc Island in Palawan

Day 11 - Day 11: El Nido Island Hopping Tour

Day 11 will be dedicated to exploring the El Nido islands. When you arrive, a van will take you to your Lio hotel. When you have settled in, you will hop on a boat to begin your island-hopping adventure. Your first destination is the Big Lagoon. You will have to cross a tight waterway between limestone cliffs to reach this natural pool. While the entry may be unusual, the turquoise waters on the other side make it worth it. You will then sail to Miniloc Island after your time in the lagoon. Here, you will find the next attraction: the Secret Lagoon. True to its name, the entrance to the lagoon can be hard to spot. It can only be accessed by squeezing through a small hole. When you wriggle out of the tight passage, you will immediately see a lagoon encircled by cliffs that help hide it. Following this, you will make your way to the Seven Commandos Beach. Though on the mainland, this area is surrounded by mountains and can only be reached via a boat. When you dock on the shore, you can relax on the sand or swim in the tranquil seas. Finally, you will drop by Shimizu Island before wrapping up your day.
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Day 12
Waiting area at terminal 1 of Ninoy Aquino International Airport

Day 12 - Day 12: Departure to Manila

On the final day of your adventure through the Philippines, a van will pick you up from your accommodation in Lio. A guide will then escort you to the Puerto Princesa International Airport, where you will catch a flight back to Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila City.
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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.

In El Nido island hopping tour mandatory environmental fee and/or user’s see is to be paid directly in cash to the service provider in El Nido, The tour itinerary is subject to change based on weather and tidal conditions. Tours will start only once operators are given permission to sail by the Local Government Unit (LGU) and the Philippine Coast Guard. Delays in start of tours or cancellation of tours affected by this is beyond the service providers’ control.

Limitation to the number of tourists, boats, kayaks and time of stay in El Nido lagoons are strictly enforced by the PAMB. Secret Beach, Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon are no longer allowed to be toured on the same day as part of the policies of the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) of El Nido.

A mandatory user fee of PHP 200 per person is collected by PAMB for every entry to the Secret Beach, Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon.

Single use-plastics are banned in El Nido island tours. Please bring reusable water bottles or tumblers. All visitors are required to bring their own trash back to the boats.

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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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