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

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A couple walking along the shores of Honda Bay

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Travel details

Dates

Time

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Travelers

From: Manila

Description

Summary

Tour starts

Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines

Duration

12 days

Ending place

Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines

Languages:

English

Difficulty:

Easy

Minimum age:

None

101 reviews

Description

Explore some of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines and learn about the country’s rich culture and history with this 12-day vacation package. See the beautiful islands and visit the cultural and historical sights of Bohol, Dumaguete, Palawan, and Manila. In this package, your accommodation and entrance fees will be pre-arranged, as well as your roundtrip flights, land and sea transportations, and service of guides.

The Philippines has a long history to share, and this tour will take you to some of the top historical places in the country, including Intramuros in Manila. A centuries-old district lies within this historic walled area, and it comprises museums, campuses, churches, and more.

Your excursion also includes visiting numerous wonders of nature. In Bohol, you will get to spend a day on the beautiful Pamilacan Island and go on a laid-back Loboc River Cruise. You will also see the magnificent Chocolate Hills in Bohol. The City of Dumaguete will offer you a mix of historical and cultural places, including Silliman University. You'll also be given a chance to swim with sea turtles on Apo Island.

This package will also bring you to Cebu, where you'll visit more natural attractions such as the multi-layered Kawasan Falls and the stunning Sirao Flower Farm. You will also drop by the Temple of Leah, which is recognized for its Roman-inspired architectural shrine.

Your last three tours will take place in the Province of Palawan. Your activities include island-hopping at Honda Bay and exploring the famous Underground River, both located in Puerto Princesa. In El Nido, you will visit more paradise-like islands and beaches like the Big Lagoon.

Discover the natural wonders and the historical attractions in Manila, Bohol, Dumaguete, Cebu, and Palawan with this 12-day tour 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 8 - Bohol, Dumaguete and Cebu Tour (Central Visayas)

Day 9 to 11 - Puerto Princesa 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

Map

Attractions

Chocolate Hills

Manila Cathedral

Casa Manila

Bahay Tsinoy

Puerto Princesa City

Starfish Island

Luli Island

Cowrie Island

Puerto Princesa Underground River

Bohol Island

Baclayon Church

Magellan's Cross

Cebu

Temple of Leah

Sirao Garden Flower Farm

Rizal Boulevard

St. Catherine of Alexandria Church

Apo Island

Kawasan Falls

Taoist Temple

Bilar Man-Made Forest

Cambuhat Village

Honda Bay

Baker's Hill

Big Lagoon

Intramuros

Fort Santiago

San Agustin Church

Secret Lagoon

Seven Commandos Beach

Shimizu Island

Loboc River Cruise

Basilica Minore Del Santo Niño

Heritage of Cebu Monument

Pescador Island

Moalboal

El Nido town

Crocodile Farm

Mitra's Ranch

Plaza Cuartel

Pamilacan Island

Moalboal Sardine Run

Baluarte de San Diego

Yap-San Diego Ancestral House

Plaza Roma

Cambuhat Oyster Farm

Puerto Princesa City Baywalk Park

Manila

Lab-as Seafood Restaurant

Sidlakang Negros Village

Valencia Forest Camp

San Agustin Church

Negros Oriental Arts & Heritage

Siliman University

Dumaguete Public Market

Claytown Pottery

Miniloc Island

Dumaguete Campanario

Cambuhat River

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Daily itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 - Day 1: Intramuros Tour

Your schedule for the day is to explore the historic walled area in Manila, called Intramuros. The tour will cover some of the Philippines' oldest stone forts. Your van will pick you up at Ninoy Aquino International Airport and drive you to your hotel in Manila along or around Roxas Boulevard. Your van will then take you to Intramuros. Your first stop is Fort Santiago, which was constructed in 1593 as a defense fortress against pirates. Next is Plaza Roma, one of the three major public squares within the walled city. You can find a monument of Charles IV of Spain here. You'll visit two museums, starting with Bahay Tsinoy, which illustrates the story of the ethnic Chinese in Philippine history. The other one is Casa Manila, which features exhibits that show how the Filipinos lived during Spanish colonization. Your guide will then take you to the well-manicured San Diego Gardens, which lies near the Baluarte De San Diego, a National Cultural Treasure since 2014. After that is the San Agustin Church and Museum, the only church in Manila to be declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And your last stop is Manila Cathedral, which boasts a Neo-Romanesque architectural style.

Day 2

Day 2 - Day 2: Bohol Cambuhat Tour

On the second day, you are scheduled to depart to the Province of Bohol in the Visayas. After checking out of your accommodation in Manila, you'll make your way to Ninoy Aquino International Airport. You will then take a flight to Panglao Island and land at Panglao International Airport. Your tour will take place in Cambuhat, a village in the town of Buenavista. It takes pride in its abundant natural resources. You will hop on a paddle boat at Daet Bridge and cruise along Cambuhat River, filled with mangroves and nipa palms. At Cambuhat Village, you'll learn about the lifestyle and culture of the locals, as well as their livelihood. One of the key sources of income for the village is the Cambuhat Oyster Farm. You'll get to know the process of harvesting oysters and how locals breed them. You will also gain knowledge about river farming. Plus, you'll get the chance to sample delicious seafood, including oysters. The locals will even entertain you with a traditional dance, also called the Buri dance. This Cambuhat Tour will also show you the residents' weaving work and native products. Once your tour ends, your guide will take you to your Panglao hotel.

Day 3

Day 3 - Day 3: Pamilacan Island Tour

On Day 3, you'll visit an island in Bohol that is one of the less-populated lands in the Philippines, called Pamilacan Island. It lies in the middle of the Bohol Sea, just over 10km from the mainland. During the 90s, people would flock to the island to hunt manta rays and whale sharks. Locals have since shifted their livelihood to whale-and-dolphin watching tours. Your van will pick you up at your accommodation on Panglao Island and take you to a pier where you'll ride a boat. Better keep your eyes open as you're likely to see dolphins along the way. There have also been whale and shark sightings over the years. Once you reach Pamilacan Island, feel free to chill on the beach covered with white sand or swim in the clear waters. For a more memorable experience, you can also snorkel around the place to see colorful corals, schools of fish, sea turtles, and more. You may also go around the small village that has only 240 families. Interact with the locals and find out their way of life. At the end of the day, you'll return to mainland Bohol and spend the night at your Panglao hotel.

Day 4

Day 4 - Day 4: Bohol Countryside Tour

On the fourth day, you will continue exploring Bohol, and this time, you'll discover the top attractions in the countryside. Your first stop is the Corella Tarsier Sanctuary, home to the Bohol tarsier, one of the smallest primates in the world. Visitors are reminded to lower their voice and avoid flash photography while here. The Loboc River Cruise is next on your itinerary. Aboard a floating restaurant, you will traverse the jade-green Loboc River while you enjoy delectable Filipino dishes and cultural presentations. Afterward, you will go to Baclayon Church, which was constructed in 1595, becoming the second oldest stone church in the Philippines. You will proceed to the town of Bilar to see two exciting spots. The first is the Butterfly Conservatory, an open garden filled with flowering plants and about 200 butterfly species. The next one is Bilar Forest. While it looks like a natural area, it is a man-made forest that stretches to 2km and has mahogany trees. Your Bohol Tour will end with a visit to Chocolate Hills, the most famous attraction in the province. Over 1,000 almost symmetrically shaped hills make up this impressive geological formation.

Day 5

Day 5 - Day 5: Dumaguete City Tour

On Day 5, you'll check out of your Panglao hotel and ride a ferry to Dumaguete. Once you reach your destination, you'll go to Silliman University. It was initially established as an elementary school for boys. Next, you'll drop by the historic Rizal Boulevard, a 780-meter promenade named after Jose Rizal, one of the Philippines' national heroes. You'll also visit the oldest stone church of the Negros Island, which is called St. Catherine De Alexandria. Erected outside the church is Dumaguete Campanario, a popular landmark established in 1811. A short distance away is Dumaguete Public Market, where fresh seafood, fruits, local delicacies, and craftwork are available for sale. You'll then stop by Provincial Capitol and Freedom Park, which features well-landscaped green lawns. Your next two stops are Claytown Pottery and Sidlakang Negros Village, where you can purchase souvenirs. You'll also get to sample seafood dishes at Lab-as Seafood and visit Valencia Forest Camp. You'll also see numerous artifacts of World War II at the Cata-al War Museum. Finally, you'll check out the San Agustin de Hippo Church, a national cultural treasure, and Negros Oriental Arts and Heritage Center that offers inlaid Philippine gemstones. Afterward, you'll head to your Dumaguete accommodation.

Day 6

Day 6 - Day 6: Apo Island Tour

The entire day will be dedicated to Apo Island, one of the most well-known dive sites in the world. Your van will transfer you from your hotel in Dumaguete to the town of Dauin. Here you will hop on a boat and sail to the volcanic island. Apo Island is home to a population of approximately 1,000 locals. It offers coral gardens and is abundant in marine life. Make sure to wear your swimsuit and bring sunblock. You can go snorkeling to make the most of your time on the island. As you explore underwater, you may encounter not only colorful fishes but also sea turtles. Sea creatures like hammerheads, tuna, and manta rays are also common on the island. Apart from the overflowing marine ecosystem, you can also expect tranquil and pristine beaches that are perfect for sunbathing or simply relaxing. Apo Island also offers a trekking opportunity. The southern part is a 600-meter eco-trail, which will lead you to an area overlooking the blue waters and fantastic rock formations. Before dark, you will head back to the mainland and then return to your accommodation in Dumaguete City.

Day 7

A man standing on a cliff in Kawasan Falls

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

On Day 7, you will be checking out of your Dumaguete hotel and ride a ferry to Cebu. The province is rich in natural wonders, and some of which will be your stops for the day. Your tour starts in the town of Badian. It is noted for its multi-layered waterfalls called Kawasan Falls that gives off a refreshing atmosphere and features cool natural springs. For adventure-seekers, you may include canyoneering in your itinerary for this day. From Badian, your van will take you to the coastal town of Moalboal. It is famous among diving enthusiasts as it features a healthy coral ecosystem and is home to whale sharks, fishes, and other marine animals. This town also serves as the starting point for island hopping. The first one you'll visit is Pescador Island, a tiny, rugged land in the Tañon Strait. The place boasts spectacular corals of different types and colors. From there, you will make your way to Turtle Island, also known for its abundance of coral reefs and marine life. Besides fishes, you'll also get the chance to swim with sea turtles. Finally, you'll see the magnificent Sardine Run in Panagsama Beach. Your van will then drive you to your Argao hotel.

Day 8

Day 8 - Day 8: Cebu City Tour

You will be touring the bustling Cebu City on the eighth day. After checking out of your hotel in the town of Argao, you will head to your first stop, the Taoist Temple. Constructed in 1972, the temple is the center of Taoism worship in Cebu. It also features a chapel, a library, a souvenir shop, and a wishing well. You'll next see Basilica Minore Del Santo Nino. It was founded back in 1565, becoming one of the oldest Roman Catholic churches in the Philippines. The renowned Magellan's Cross is just outside of the church and housed in a small chapel. The Heritage of Cebu Monument at Parian Park is your next destination. This attraction is famous for its illustrations of the historical events in Cebu. A quick walk from the monument will take you to the Yap - San Diego Ancestral House. Being one of the country's oldest residences, expect to find antiques, religious art, and old furniture inside. Next is the Temple of Leah, a shrine adorned with life-sized statues. You'll make your last stop at Sirao Flower Farm. While there are various blossoms planted here, Celosia is the main flower grown at the site. Afterward, your van will take you to your Mandaue hotel.

Day 9

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

Your Day 9 will be in Puerto Princesa in the Province of Palawan. You will be checking out of your accommodation in Mandaue City and then board a plane at Mactan-Cebu International Airport. After a short flight, you will arrive at Puerto Princesa International Airport. Your first stop for this day is Honda Bay. Located near Puerto Princesa, the bay houses several beautiful islands, islets, and sandbars, some of which will be your next stops. You will first visit Star Fish Island. It is teeming with starfishes of varied colors and sizes. It also has abundant marine life and corals. Your next stop is Cowrie Island, the most popular and largest island in Honda Bay. You can enjoy multiple beach activities and water sports such as jet-skiing, snorkeling, and banana boat riding. Food and drinks are also available at the stores on the island. The Luli Island will be the final stop of your tour. This sandbar boasts powdery cream-colored sand and is best visited during low tide as it submerges during high tide. After the tour, your guide will bring you to your Sabang hotel.

Day 10

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

On Day 10, you will further explore the attractions in Puerto Princesa City. First, you'll visit the world-famous Puerto Princesa Underground River. From your accommodation, your van will take you to a boat terminal. You'll then board a boat to Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. Along the way, you'll discover natural fauna and flora, as well as splendid limestone cliffs. The underground river is almost 8km and boasts one of the impressive cave systems in the world. Afterward, you'll start touring the City of Puerto Princesa. Your first stop is Baker's Hills, a theme park with lots of bakeries and pizza parlors. Your next stop is Plaza Cuartel, a historic site that was once a military base and had an old Spanish garrison and tunnels. Then, you will visit the Crocodile Farm, a popular tourist destination that displays bone structures, fossils, and skeletons of crocodiles. After that, you'll head to Mitra's Ranch. It offers a viewing deck where you get to enjoy a sweeping view of Puerto Princesa City. Before you proceed to your Sabang accommodation, you will drop by the Puerto Princesa Baywalk, where you can unwind after a long day and enjoy a view of the sea.

Day 11

Day 11 - Day 11: El Nido Island Hopping Tour

On the eleventh day, you will explore El Nido, another top tourist destination in Palawan. Your tour for this day will take place in Bacuit Bay, one of the most popular locations in the province. Be sure to gear up for swimming as you will be visiting beaches, islands, and lagoons. You will first see the Big Lagoon. The entrance to the lagoon is a narrow waterway that opens up to a wide area of clear blue waters. You can also find dark limestone cliffs here. Next on your itinerary is Miniloc Island, which features crystalline waters and rich marine life. Various outdoor activities are also offered at the place. The following attraction is also located on Miniloc Island, the Secret Lagoon. This natural spot is enclosed within towering dark limestone walls, and to get here, you will have to go through a small hole. You'll then head to Seven Commandos Beach, which is located on the mainland. You'll get to enjoy different swimming activities on the beach. Your final stop is Shimizu Island, known for its beautiful stretch of white sand and black limestone mountains. After your island-hopping tour, you will make your way to your hotel in Lio.

Day 12

Terminal 1 in Manila International Airport

Day 12 - Day 12: Departure to Manila

After checking out of your accommodation in Lio, El Nido, you'll head back to Puerto Princesa International Airport. You'll ride a plane bound for Manila. After a short flight, which usually takes less than two hours, you'll arrive at Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

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.

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.

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.