12-Day Philippines Nature & Islands Vacation Package to Palawan Island, Bohol Island & Cebu City
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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
Explore the Philippines' stunning islands, historical attractions, and charming countryside for 12 days with this tour package. On this trip, you will visit significant landmarks in Manila City and Cebu City, go trekking in Tarlac province, and set foot on the shores of Bohol Island and Palawan Island. This package already includes transportation, accommodation, entrance fees, daily breakfast, and the service of guides.
Your 12-day vacation will begin when you safely arrive in Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport. For the first day of your trip, you will tour inside Intramuros, a walled district in Manila that consists of several buildings dating back to the Spanish era in the country. Next, you will leave the capital city and head to Tarlac. In this province, you will spend a day trekking to Mt. Pinatubo's crater lake.
For the next part of your adventure, you will return to Manila and fly to Bohol. In this idyllic province, you will explore the pristine Pamilacan Island, go on a Loboc River Cruise, and view the well-known Chocolate Hills. You will next ride a ferry to Cebu, where you can find the Taoist Temple and the beautiful fields of Sirao Flower Farm. The tour also includes a trip to the coastal town of Moalboal.
From there, you will board a plane headed for Puerto Princesa. Your trip here consists of visits to Cowrie Island and the world-renowned Puerto Princesa Underground River. Next on the list is a stop at the serene Port Barton village. You will then wrap up your vacation with an island-hopping tour to El Nido's best spots.
See the Philippines' beauty up close and personal with this 12-day trip across Manila, Tarlac, Bohol, Cebu, Puerto Princesa, Port Barton, and El Nido. 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
On the first day, you will land in the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Your guide will be waiting for you there and will take you straight to your hotel in Manila or along Roxas Boulevard once you arrive. From your hotel, you will then make your way to Intramuros to mark the start of your adventure through the country.
During the Spanish colonial period, this walled district served as the Philippines' educational, religious, and commercial center. It also houses many important landmarks, such as Fort Santiago, which was built back in 1593. After visiting this defensive fort, you will head to Plaza Roma, a public area that features a statue of King Charles IV of Spain.
Then there's Bahay Tsinoy, a historical center that highlights the relationships Filipinos had with ethnic Chinese. From there, a short stroll would lead you to Casa Manila, a well-preserved Spanish house. This museum depicts how Filipinos lived when the Philippines was still under the control of Spain.
Afterward, you will walk across the San Diego Gardens' lawns until you reach the Baluarte De San Diego. The San Agustin Church and Museum, which has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will be your next stop. Before returning to your accommodation, you will enter the magnificent halls of Manila Cathedral.
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Day 2
Day 2 - Day 2: Mt. Pinatubo Tour
The next day, a van will transport you from Manila to Tarlac, where you will climb Mt. Pinatubo. Before reaching the mountain's base, you will first drop by Sta. Juliana Tourism Center. Here, you will step out of the van to board a 4x4 jeep that can better navigate the rough roads of Crow Valley. This canyon leads to the jump-off point and still contains some lahar from the active volcano's massive eruption in 1991.
This disastrous blast was recorded as one of the world's biggest. After crossing the valley, you will begin hiking up a designated path to the mountain's peak. As you make your way up the volcano, you will probably see lava sand structures that also date back to the eruption.
Once you arrive at the summit, a stunning view of the mountain's crater lake will greet you. Feel free to catch your breath and enjoy your lunch by the emerald waters. However, make sure not to take a dip as the lake is not suitable for swimming. After you've recharged, you will start your descent back to the tourism center, where your guide will be waiting. You will then continue to your hotel along Manila's Baywalk.
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Day 3
Day 3 - Day 3: Bohol Cambuhat Tour
Day 3 marks the start of your adventure across Bohol Island. You will check out of your Manila accommodation and fly to Panglao International Airport. When you land, your guide will accompany you to your hotel on Panglao Island before bringing you to Cambuhat Village. You will spend the whole day in this quaint village that is also considered one of the province's hidden gems.
From a small port by Daet Bridge, you will board a paddle boat and cruise along the Cambuhat River. Take in the fresh air as you sail past the Nipa trees and mangroves that line the river. You will then dock by the Cambuhat Oyster Farm. During your visit, you will learn about how the locals breed and raise these mollusks. Afterward, you will be treated to a delicious meal of fresh oysters and other tasty dishes.
As you dine, locals will perform one of their traditional dances called the Buri dance to showcase the village's culture. Next, you will wander through the Cambuhat Village and witness how the locals create beautiful woven goods using looms. Following your time with the hospitable natives, your guide will escort you back to your hotel.
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Day 4
Day 4 - Day 4: Pamilacan Island Tour
You will then sail away from the mainland to explore the unspoiled beauty of Pamilacan Island. This isle sits in the middle of the Bohol Sea and is a haven for various sea creatures. On the boat ride there, you may even see dolphins and whale sharks swimming near the surface. Meanwhile, manta rays have also been seen closer to the island's coast.
When you step foot on the white-sand shore, you will be given enough time to wander the island or simply sit back and soak up some sunlight. You can also wade through the surrounding waters or put on some snorkeling gear to view the colorful fish swimming by. When you dive under the surface, you will also find the corals that shelter the schools of fish.
Afterward, you can explore the island's Spanish stronghold further down its coast to get an idea of the area's history. The 200-year-old fortification was originally constructed to keep watch for Moro pirates that threatened the island natives. Today, the tower has become a popular tourist spot. As the day ends, you will take a boat back to the mainland and return to your hotel on Panglao Island.
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Day 5
Day 5 - Day 5: Bohol Countryside Tour
On your last day in Bohol, you will explore the province's countryside. Your guide will fetch you from your Panglao hotel before leading you to the Corella Tarsier Sanctuary. These little creatures are considered one of the smallest primates in the animal world. In this conservation center, you can find a healthy group of them clinging to trees as you stroll around.
From there, you will travel to the Loboc River to join a Loboc River Cruise. This experience will treat you to a buffet lunch of Filipino dishes as the boat sails slowly along the water. The staff also perform famous local songs and dances to share their culture on the cruise. You will next head to the historic Baclayon Church, which the national government has deemed a National Cultural Treasure.
Then you will stop by the man-made Bilar Forest, where you can take photos by the tall mahogany trees. To cap off your day, you will climb up a view deck in the town of Carmen that overlooks the popular Chocolate Hills. The grass growing on these hills always becomes a brown shade in the summer season, hence their name. Afterward, your guide will escort your back to your hotel.
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Day 6
Day 6 - Day 6: Cebu City Tour
You will then take a ferry from Bohol Island to Cebu Island. After you reach the island, a guide will transport you to your hotel within Mandaue City. The Taoist Temple will be the first destination of the tour. Tall towers and an entryway inspired by the Great Wall of China are found throughout the complex.
The Basilica Minore Del Santo Nino, the Philippines' oldest Roman Catholic church, will be your next stop. Next to the church is another significant historical landmark planted by the Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan in 1521. This large cross is aptly named Magellan's Cross and stands inside a small building.
From there, you will travel to the Cebu Heritage Monument. This series of sculptures depict historical events that took place on the island. Following this, you will proceed to the Yap - San Diego Ancestral House. This house dates from the 17th century and contains a collection of antique furniture and religious paintings.
Your guide will next take you to the Temple of Leah, where life-sized statues of angels, lions, and Roman gladiators can be seen. Sirao Flower Farm is the final stop on your city tour. Before making your back to Mandaue City, make sure to take as many photos as you want with the bright flowers.
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Day 7
Day 7 - Day 7: Kawasan Falls and Moalboal Sardine Run Tour
You will travel to the town of Badian on the seventh day. This rural town is primarily known for the magnificent Kawasan Falls, which are tucked in its surrounding forest. Tourists from all over the world visit this multi-leveled waterfall to swim in its tranquil waters and take photos of its natural beauty.
After your refreshing dip in the falls, you will head to Moalboal, a popular diving destination. When you reach this coastal town, your guide will lead you to the local port. You will then hop on a boat and sail to Pescador Island, a rocky area that houses beautiful corals and vibrant schools of fish.
Next, your boat will take you to Turtle Point. Take the time to swim with and watch the sea turtles up close. Then you will return to the mainland for the tour's last stop: Sardine Run at Panagsama Beach.
Here, you will first undergo a quick diving lesson to prepare you for the underwater phenomenon. Following the brief training, you will descend into the sea and watch millions of sardines swimming in unison. At the end of the excursion, you will return to your Argao hotel.
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Day 8
Day 8 - Day 8: Puerto Princesa Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour
After you check out of your hotel, your guide will drive you to Mactan-Cebu International Airport, where you will take a flight to Palawan. You will arrive at Puerto Princesa International Airport and then drop by your new hotel in Sabang. From there, you will go to Honda Bay in the province's eastern coast. This will be the starting place for your island-hopping adventure.
On a boat, you will ferry to Starfish Island, which is teeming with little and large starfishes, as well as different species such as pufferfish and parrotfish. Because the island has no jellyfish, the waters are suitable for swimming and snorkeling. After your underwater experience, you are welcome to unwind on the island's beautiful white sand.
Cowrie Island, the biggest in Honda Bay, is your next stop. There are several activities available here, including jet skiing and banana boat rides. There are also restaurants here that provide tasty seafood and local cuisine.
Luli Island is the final destination for the day. At high tide, this site is known for its submerged sandbars, powdered cream-colored sand, and crystalline waters. Travelers can swim or snorkel here as well, thanks to its clear waters/ After the island-hopping excursion, you will return to your accommodation in Sabang.
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Day 9
Day 9 - Day 9: Puerto Princesa Underground River and City Tour
Following your day on beautiful islands, the ninth will be spent in freshwater and in the city proper. To begin the day's tour, a van will transport you to Sabang Wharf. From here, you will take a boat to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. This conservation center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to a variety of animals and flora.
When you enter the park, your guide will escort you to a boat that will take you across the world-famous Puerto Princesa Underground River. The river flows through a cave with magnificent limestone structures and groups of fruit bats.
Afterward, you will return to the mainland and ride a van up to Baker's Hill. You can purchase some of the area's famous sweets to take home with you. The next stop is Plaza Cuartel, which houses a reconstructed World War II garrison.
Then, you will enter the Crocodile Farm, where you can watch how these tough reptiles eat. This animal conservation institution cares for and breeds several kinds of crocodiles. Following your time with the reptiles, you will proceed to Mitra's Ranch. It has a fantastic view of the city because it is located on a hilltop park. Finally, your day will come to a close with a stroll along the Puerto Princesa Baywalk.
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Day 10
Day 10 - Day 10: Port Barton Island Hopping Tour
You will set off on an island-hopping tour across Port Barton on Day 10. Considered one of the hidden treasures of Palawan, this village sits in San Vicente town. It has also been likened to the beautiful municipality of El Nido but provides a more laid-back environment.
Port Barton has numerous islands in addition to its beach paradise. For your first stop, you will sail to Inaladelan Island. It is also called the German Island and has become a popular camping site in Palawan Island. The sea is a beautiful turquoise, and the beach is powdery white. Under the water's surface, you will see colorful corals and a number of sea turtles.
Then, you will sail to the Luli Sandbar. This stretch of sand can only be seen when the tide is low, as the whole sandbar is covered by water when the tide rises. When it emerges, you can safely walk on it and even find some starfish on the shore.
From there, you will head to the Turtle Snorkeling area to see these sea creatures up close and personal. Following your encounter with the turtles, you will continue to a fish and coral reef zone filled with colorful aquatic creatures. Finally, you will return to the mainland and head to your hotel in Lio.
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Day 11
Day 11 - Day 11: El Nido Island Hopping Tour
From Lio, your guide will escort you to El Nido. You will then board a boat that will ferry you across the area's blue waters and dock at different white-sand islands. For your first stop, you will make your way to the Big Lagoon. This natural pool is lined by tall karst cliffs and can only be reached via a narrow waterway between the stone walls. After squeezing through the opening, you will be greeted by the lagoon's turquoise surface.
This is a popular spot for swimming, thanks to its cool atmosphere, so make sure to take a dip before returning to your boat. From there, you will head to Miniloc Island, where you can find the Secret Lagoon. Similar to the first stop, travelers need to wriggle through a small opening between the limestone cliffs to enter the lagoon.
You will then travel to the Seven Commandos Beach, which is connected to the mainland. However, to set foot on this stunning shore, visitors need to ride a boat to pass the tall mountains surrounding its shore. This secluded area boasts smooth sand and a clear sea that are great for swimming. For the last leg of your island-hopping adventure, you will visit Shimizu Island before returning to your Lio hotel.
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Day 12
Day 12 - Day 12: Departure to Manila
As you end your vacation in the Philippines, you will check out of your hotel in Lio. A van will then drop you off at the Puerto Princesa International Airport. From there, you will depart from Palawan via a plane headed for the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila.
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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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