12-Day Philippines Islands, Falls & Countryside Trip to Palawan Island, Bohol Island & Cebu City

Rock formations near the Big Lagoon in El Nido Palawan
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Description

Details

Tour starts
Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
Starting time
Duration
12 days
Ending place
Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
Languages:
English
Difficulty:
Easy
Available:
false
Minimum age:
None

Description

Immerse in the cultural landmarks and breathtaking sites of the Philippines with this 12-day tour package. You'll see the historic district of Manila City, hike up a volcano in Tarlac province, and experience the tropical charms of Dumaguete City, Cebu City, and Palawan Island. This package already comes with roundtrip flights, land and sea transfers, entrance fees, daily breakfast, accommodation, and the service of guides.

When you land at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila, your guide will fetch you and escort you to your first stop: the walled district of Intramuros. This area is situated within the city and houses several well-preserved Spanish-era buildings. From there, you will head up to Tarlac province to climb the historic Mt. Pinatubo. The trek will lead to the active volcano's beautiful crater lake. 

You will then catch a flight to Bohol Island, where you will visit the Tarsier Sanctuary, the Chocolate Hills, and the nearby Pamilacan Island. Next, you will take a ferry to Dumaguete and walk through the campus of the decades-old Silliman University. You will also swim with marine animals in Apo Island.

Afterward, you will hop on another boat bound for Cebu province. This island is home to the majestic Kawasan Falls, where travelers can swim. You will also fly to Puerto Princesa and set out on an island-hopping tour that will take you to Starfish Island. Along with its beaches, you will explore the world-famous Puerto Princesa Underground River as well. From there, you will head to the idyllic Port Barton village before ending your trip in the stunning Big Lagoon in El Nido. 

Visit the historical centers of Manila City and the spectacular outdoors of Tarlac, Bohol, Dumaguete, Cebu, Puerto Princesa, Port Barton, and El Nido with this 12-day excursion. 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, Dumaguete 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 and Historical Tour

Daily itinerary

Day 1
Baluarte de San Diego in Manila

Day 1 - Day 1: Intramuros Tour

Your guide will greet you at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport on your first day in the Philippines then drop you off at your accommodation in Manila City or along Roxas Boulevard. After that, you will go on a historical tour of the walled district, beginning with Fort Santiago. During the Spanish colonial period in the Philippines, this fortress was where our national hero Jose Rizal was imprisoned. You will then proceed to Plaza Roma. During the Spanish era, this public area hosted a variety of activities, including bullfights. Then you will walk to Bahay Tsinoy, where you can learn about the past contributions of ethnic Chinese to Filipinos. After that, you will head to Casa Manila, a classic Spanish home and museum. You will see how Filipinos lived prior to the battle for our country's freedom here. From there, the beautiful grounds of San Diego Garden are only a short walk away. A stroll through its manicured lawns will lead you to the Baluarte De San Diego. Following that, you will visit the San Agustin Church and Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Finally, before concluding your day trip in this cultural site, you will visit the magnificent Manila Cathedral.
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Day 2
Welcome sign at Mt. Pinatubo Crater Lake

Day 2 - Day 2: Mt. Pinatubo Tour

The next morning, a van will transport you from your Manila hotel to Tarlac, where you will hike up Mt. Pinatubo. You will first stop by the Sta. Juliana Tourism Center when you reach the province to prepare for the climb. Here, you will trade the van for a 4x4 ride that is better equipped to cross Crow Valley's rough and sandy terrain. Lahar from the mountain's historical eruption in 1991 contributed to the valley's rugged topography. The explosion is also famous for being one of the world's biggest eruptions in the 20th century. As you walk through the canyon, you may also notice lava sand patterns left by the blast. At the end of the valley, you will find the mountain's jump-off point. From there, you will get off of your 4x4 ride and trek up the trail to the volcano's peak. The spectacular view of the mountain's crater lake will greet you after your journey to the top. You will have time to eat lunch beside the crater lake as well before beginning your descent. Finally, after returning to the jump-off location, your guide will bring you back to your Manila hotel.
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Day 3
Viewing deck of Chocolate Hills in Bohol

Day 3 - Day 3: Bohol Countryside Tour

Following your night in Manila, a guide will escort you to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, where you will board your flight to Bohol Island. A van will then fetch you at the Panglao International Airport and transport you to your Panglao accommodation. After that, you will visit the Corella Tarsier Sanctuary to encounter a group of tarsiers that are cared for in this woodland. Then you will head over to the Loboc River Cruise for a new dining experience. This floating restaurant serves a buffet of local cuisine as you drift along the Loboc River. You will then visit the beautiful Baclayon Church, which has been designated as a National Cultural Treasure. From there, you will make your way to the Butterfly Conservatory to learn about different types of butterflies. The facility is home to a variety of colorful species as well as a breeding program. Next, you will pass through the Bilar Forest's towering mahogany trees. Since they were planted in the twentieth century, the bulk of the trees in this man-made landscape have a consistent height. You will finish the day by seeing the famed Chocolate Hills. In the summer, the grass on the hills turns brown, giving them the appearance of chocolate mounds.
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Day 4
Aerial view of Pamilacan Island in Bohol

Day 4 - Day 4: Pamilacan Island Tour

On Day 4, you will set sail for Pamilacan Island, a paradise-like spot that is a must-visit attraction in Bohol. It sits in the middle of the Bohol Sea and is a haven for dolphins and whale sharks, which you might see during your boat ride. White-sand beaches and sparkling blue seas abound on Pamilacan Island. It is bordered by a reef, which is home to a variety of marine creatures, including starfish, crinoids, seagrasses, and others. The island's natural beauty is preserved by about 2,000 people who live there. To make the most of your time on the island, you can go swimming in the waters and sunbathing on the beach. You may also snorkel to see anemones, sponges, sea turtles, a wide array of fish, and other interesting marine life. A 200-year-old Spanish fort can also be visited on Pamilacan Island's northeast side if you're interested in history. It used to be a lookout station against Moro pirates, but it is now a National Cultural Treasure. You will then take a boat back to the mainland at the end of the day before retiring to your Panglao Island hotel.
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Day 5
Anthropological Museum at Silliman University in Dumaguete

Day 5 - Day 5: Dumaguete City Tour

You will take a ferry from Bohol to Dumaguete, known as the "City of Gentle People." Upon docking at the port, your guide will escort you to your hotel in the city proper. The first destination on the agenda is Silliman University. There are 300 age-old acacia trees on this 62-hectare property, as well as six museums. Rizal Boulevard, the city's promenade with a stunning view of the sea, is next. From there, you will make your to the oldest stone church on Negros Island, St. Catherine de Alexandria. The Dumaguete Campanario, a well-known local landmark, stands next to the cathedral. Following this, you will visit the Dumaguete Public Market, Provincial Capitol, and Freedom Park, and Claytown Pottery. You will check out the Sidlakang Negros Village as well to buy some souvenirs. After shopping, your guide will then take you to Lab-as Seafood for a lunch break. Once you've had your fill of delicious seafood, you will continue to the Valencia Forest Camp. You will then visit the Cata-al War Museum to view exhibits depicting World War II. Finally, your guide will lead you to the town of Bacong, which is home to the San Agustin de Hippo Church and the Negros Oriental Arts and Heritage Center.
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Day 6
Aerial view of Apo Island in Dumaguete

Day 6 - Day 6: Apo Island Tour

You will leave Dumaguete on Day 6 to visit Apo Island. Your guide will take you to the Malatapay Boat Terminal, where you will board a boat bound for the island. Apo Island, located near the southeast end of Negros, is recognized worldwide for its marine reserve, home to a diverse ecosystem of sea creatures and plants. Make sure to grab your snorkel gear so you can dive under the water's surface and see the large reef garden below. During your time on the island, you can visit Turtle Point as well. As its name suggests, this area is home to turtles, specifically, the hawksbill turtles and green turtles. Following your underwater exploration, you can rest on the beautiful shoreline before continuing your trip around the island. When you've recharged, you can then trek up to the Apo Island Lighthouse or the Apo View Deck. Apo Island also features paths that range from beginner-friendly to those better suited for experienced hikers. You can choose from the Habagat Eco-Trail, Witchy's Trail, or David's Trek, all of which provide a spectacular view of Negros from afar as well as the island's natural beauty. You will then sail back to mainland Bohol in the late afternoon.
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Day 7
Moalboal Island in Cebu

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

For the seventh day, you will make your way to the town of Badian. This rural town is best known for the majestic Kawasan Falls nestled in its nearby forest. Tourists worldwide stop by this multi-leveled cascade to take a dip in its calm waters and admire its beauty. Following your time in the falls, you will proceed to the town of Moalboal. When you arrive, you will go straight to the shoreline and hop aboard a boat that will take you to the stunning Pescador Island. This isle has gained popularity as a diving spot thanks to its thriving marine ecosystem filled with vibrant corals. Then you will sail towards Turtle Island, where you can encounter different species of sea turtles while snorkeling or diving. Afterward, you will return to the mainland before proceeding to Panagsama Beach. Here, you will end your day with a diving session to see the beautiful Sardine Run. The natural phenomenon happens off of the town's beachfront. Before heading underwater, you will take a brief diving training. After this, a guide will lead you underwater to witness the event with your own eyes. Millions of sardines rush together, appearing like shimmering walls of silver as they move.
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Day 8
Sand castle during the Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour in Palawan

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

You will depart from your Panglao hotel on Day 8 and ride a plane to Puerto Princesa. When you arrive at Puerto Princesa International Airport, a van will transport you to your new accommodation in Sabang. When you've settled in, your guide will drive you to Honda Bay. This bay is popular for its crystal-clear waters and powder-white sand. When you reach the bay, you will board a boat to begin your island-hopping tour. Star Fish Island is the first stop. It is home to many starfish, as the name indicates, which may be found on its sandbar. You can go snorkeling as well to see pufferfish and yellowtail snappers, among other marine species. Next, you will head to the shell-shaped Cowrie Island. Aside from its distinct shape, it is the biggest island in the bay and a popular swimming destination. To protect tourists from jellyfish, nets have been put around a section of the sea near the beach. You will then cruise to Luli Island for your final stop of the day. It is famous for its sandbar, which appears only at low tide. Afterward, you will take a boat back to the mainland, and your guide will transport you to your hotel.
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Day 9
Entrance to Puerto Princesa Underground River in Palawan

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

Your guide will take you to the Sabang Wharf the next day. Then you will board a boat headed for the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. After landing at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will enjoy a cruise along the famous Puerto Princesa Underground River. The river runs through a cave with various rock formations that are home to fruit bats and flying foxes. You will then return to the mainland and ride a van to Puerto Princesa City. From there, you will travel to Baker's Hill, a famous tourist attraction known for its delectable pastries. After you've gotten your fill of food and souvenirs, proceed to Plaza Cuartel. This historic site includes an open-air military museum and a World War II garrison that has been rebuilt over the years. Following that, you will visit the Crocodile Farm. Here, you will learn everything there is to know about these reptiles and get a close-up look at some of them. Following your encounter with the crocodiles, you will proceed to Mitra's Ranch. This hillside park provides a breathtaking view of the cityscape below. Lastly, you will walk along the Puerto Princesa Baywalk to mark the end of your day trip.
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Day 10
Beautiful white sand beach at Port Barton Palawan

Day 10 - Day 10: Port Barton Island Hopping Tour

You will then say goodbye to Sabang and make your way to Port Barton for the next leg of the vacation package. This peaceful community is considered a hidden treasure since it is not as commercialized as other tourist destinations on Palawan Island. Upon entering the village, you will board a boat and begin your island-hopping adventure. The first stop is Inaladelan Island, a 12-hectare camping paradise where you can enjoy a game of beach volleyball or kayak along its waters. During the hatching season in January, visitors may also witness turtles hatch on the beach. The Luli Sandbar, named after its tendency to rise from and sink into the water, is next on the agenda. It is an ideal place for watching sunsets and searching for starfish. Then, you will go to the Turtle Snorkeling destination to view these marine critters in their natural habitat. Following your time with the turtle, you will make your way to a fish and coral reef zone teeming with colorful sea animals. As your day ends, your boat will transport you back to the mainland. You will then return to your hotel in Lio, where you can lounge around and recharge.
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Day 11
Breathtaking view of El Nido Palawan

Day 11 - Day 11: El Nido Island Hopping Tour

The 11th day of your trip is dedicated to exploring El Nido. From your hotel in Lio, your guide will escort you to a port. You will then get on a boat that will make its way to Bacuit Bay and its surrounding islands. Your island-hopping adventure will begin with a visit to the Big Lagoon. It has a narrow entryway and shallow waters and is surrounded by limestone walls. You can also use a kayak to make the most of your time as you explore this blue lagoon. From there, you will cruise to Miniloc Island. You will have no trouble finding great photo backdrops on this island since lush forests line it. It also boasts a white-sand shore and towering limestone cliffs. During your visit, you will also drop by the Secret Lagoon. Despite its name, this secluded pool has gained popularity over the years for its cool waters. The only way to get here is through a tiny hole in the limestone wall. Your next destination will be the mainland's Seven Commandos Beach. When you dock here, you can lay on the beach or wade in the emerald sea. Finally, you'll visit Shimizu Island, where you can find beautiful corals and aquatic life.
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Day 12
Manila road sign near the airport

Day 12 - Day 12: Departure to Manila

Day 12 marks the end of your adventure in the Philippines. You will check out of your hotel in Lio before your guide drops you off at the Puerto Princesa International Airport. Finally, 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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