12-Day Philippines Outdoor Spots & Heritage Trip to Puerto Princesa City, Cebu City & Bohol Island
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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
Discover the tropical beauty of the Philippines with this 12-day vacation package. You will visit the cultural landmarks in Manila City, the countrysides of Bohol Island and Cebu City, and the breathtaking shores of Dumaguete City and Palawan Island. This tour package already comprises transportation, accommodations, daily breakfast, entrance fees to attractions, and the service of guides to give you a hassle-free experience.
The first destination on your itinerary will be the walled district of Intramuros. This area dates back to the Spanish colonial period in the Philippines, when it served as the central hub of business. Next, you will drive to the province of Tarlac. You will then spend a day climbing Mt. Pinatubo. Following this, you will head back to Manila before resuming your trip.
You will then take a plane to Bohol and explore the countryside, starting with Cambuhat Village. From there, you will drop by the Tarsier Sanctuary before viewing the famous Chocolate Hills.
You will then sail to Dumaguete, where you will stroll through the halls of Silliman University. You will next hop on a boat bound for Apo Island, a pristine haven for underwater creatures. Afterward, you will take a boat to Cebu. Here, you will set foot on Pescador Island then visit the Temple of Leah and Sirao Flower Farm.
The last destination on your trip is the beautiful Puerto Princesa City. You will go island-hopping in Honda Bay and cruise along the world-famous Puerto Princesa Underground River.
Explore the historical and natural attractions of Manila, Tarlac, Bohol, Dumaguete, Cebu, and Puerto Princesa with this 12-day vacation 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 9 - Bohol, Dumaguete and Cebu 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
Your guide will welcome you at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport and drive you to your accommodation in Manila City or along Roxas Boulevard. Next, you will stroll through Intramuros. This area is known for the several cultural landmarks constructed inside it during the Spanish era in the country. Your first stop inside is Fort Santiago, a stronghold that also served as a prison.
Then it's on to Plaza Roma. During the Spanish era, it was a popular venue for bullfights and other events. You will then head to Bahay Tsinoy, where you'll learn about how Filipinos' connections with ethnic Chinese started.
From there, you will enter Casa Manila, a museum built within a traditional Spanish mansion. You will then walk through the San Diego Gardens to reach the Baluarte De San Diego. Afterward, you will make your way to two grand churches as the day ends.
The first is the San Agustin Church and Museum, which dates back to 1607 and has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Finally, you will visit Manila Cathedral's spacious halls before returning to your hotel. Before becoming a cathedral in 1958, it was first built as a smaller parish church.
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Day 2
Day 2 - Day 2: Mt. Pinatubo Tour
You'll leave Manila via a van the next morning and head to Tarlac province, where you'll trek Mt. Pinatubo. This active volcano made history when it erupted in 1991. It has also been regarded as one of the largest blasts worldwide.
Once you reach Tarlac, you first need to register at the Sta. Juliana Tourism Center. You'll next board a 4x4 vehicle that you ride across Crow Valley that leads to the mountain's base. After passing through the rough terrain, you will arrive at the mountain's jump-off point and begin your ascent to the peak on foot.
The whole trail spans about 5.4 kilometers and features some lava sand formations formed during the 1991 eruption. After your journey, you will find the emerald waters of Mt. Pinatubo's large crater lake. Take in the panoramic sight as you rest by the lake and enjoy your lunch. Don't forget to snap photos as well before deciding to head back down.
Once you've recharged from the hike, you will begin your descent to the jump-off point. You will then end your day back at the tourism center, where your guide will be waiting for you. Afterward, you will be transported to your new hotel along Manila's Baywalk.
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Day 3
Day 3 - Day 3: Bohol Cambuhat Tour
Your guide will fetch you from your hotel the next day and take you to Ninoy Aquino International Airport. From here, you will fly to Bohol Island. Upon landing in the province’s Panglao International Airport, you will be dropped off at your hotel on Panglao Island.
When you’ve settled down, you will make your way to the idyllic Cambuhat Village. This peaceful community sits in Buenavista town in the northwestern area of Bohol. Considered one of the hidden gems of the island, it has slowly grown in popularity over the years for its diverse natural habitat and tranquil atmosphere.
You will then travel to Daet Bridge, where you will sit in a paddleboat for a scenic ride down the Cambuhat River. During the cruise, you will see rich forests along the riverbanks. Afterward, you will reach your destination: the Cambuhat Oyster Farm. The farm produces a steady supply of fresh oysters and provides stable jobs for the locals.
Take your time to discover everything there is to know about oysters, including how they are produced, harvested, and prepared. You will be served a delicious supper of fresh oysters before you return to your hotel in Panglao.
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Day 4
Day 4 - Day 4: Pamilacan Island Tour
On the fourth day, your guide will meet you at your accommodation and lead you to Baclayon's harbor. After that, you'll board a boat bound for Pamilacan Island. This island is situated in the middle of the Bohol Sea and boasts pristine beaches unspoiled by buildings.
Keep an eye out for aquatic life when cruising to the island. There have been reports of dolphins and whale sharks in the region, thanks to the area's thriving marine ecosystem. When you dock at the island's shoreline, you will step foot on powdery white sand and cool waters.
The tropical atmosphere is ideal for both unwinding on the shore or exploring the sea. If you choose to go snorkeling, you can also come close to the schools of fish and groups of colorful coral that sit beneath the waves.
While it has idyllic charms and stretches of untouched nature, this island also houses a 200-year-old fort that dates back to the Spanish era in the Philippines. Though it no longer functions as a stronghold, it has become a staple tourist attraction and a National Cultural Treasure. When you've had enough sand and saltwater for the day, you will be guided back to your hotel on the mainland.
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Day 5
Day 5 - Day 5: Bohol Countryside Tour
On Day 5, your guide will pick you up from your hotel to begin your tour of the charming countryside of Bohol Island. The Corella Tarsier Sanctuary is your first stop. You can come face to face with some Tarsiers, among the smallest primates in the world, in this conservation center.
After your time with these wide-eyed creatures, you'll head to the Loboc River. Here, you'll join the Loboc River Cruise and enjoy a great buffet lunch on the boat. Locals onboard this floating restaurant will treat you to Filipino music and native dances as you dine.
Then you'll go to the Baclayon Church, which is a national cultural treasure. After walking through its historic halls, you'll visit the Butterfly Conservatory to learn about different types of butterflies. You will then travel to Bilar Forest, the local man-made forest filled with mahogany trees of uniformed height.
Finally, you’ll visit the Chocolate Hills, the province's most popular location. The grass on these symmetrical hills darkens in the summer, giving them the appearance of piles of chocolate. Feel free to take photos of the panoramic view of these sweet-looking hills before heading back to your accommodation.
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Day 6
Day 6 - Day 6: Dumaguete Tour
You'll board a boat to Dumaguete City the next morning. After landing in the port, your guide will bring you to your accommodation within the city proper. You will then visit Silliman University, a historical institution that opened in 1901. Here, you can walk around the campus and drop by its museum.
After your time on campus, you'll take a trip down Rizal Boulevard named after Filipino National Hero Jose Rizal. The St. Catherine de Alexandria Cathedral is next on your journey. The Dumaguete Campanario, which is located next to the church, is also a notable religious landmark.
From there, you'll visit the Dumaguete Public Market to buy local food and souvenirs. You will drop by the Provincial Capital and the Freedom Park next. Following these attractions, you will travel to the Clayton Pottery before stopping at the Sidlakang Negros Village. This heritage center features top dishes and crafts from the province.
Then, you will stop by the Lab-as Seafood restaurant for a tasty lunch. When you've recharged, you will next travel to Valencia's Forest Camp and the Cata-al War Museum. Lastly, you will pay a visit to the San Agustin Church and the Negros Oriental Arts & Heritage Center to finish the tour for the day.
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Day 7
Day 7 - Day 7: Apo Island Tour
Your guide will take you to the Malatapay Boat Terminal on the seventh day. You will be transported to Apo Island by boat to begin your tour of this diving spot. This tropical escape has gained widespread popularity through the years thanks to its rich marine ecosystem teeming with colorful arrays of fish, corals, and more.
On the island, there is a turtle conservation facility where you can view these gentle creatures up close and personal. After your time there, you'll have plenty of time to swim in the clear waters of the island. Gear up and dive beneath the water's surface to view the coral garden below the waves.
After exploring the underwater world, you can lay on the beach and soak up the sunlight. If you're still in the mood to wander, you can also visit the island's lighthouse and climb to the top of an observation deck for a better glimpse of the area.
Hiking is also an option, with three routes offering breathtaking views of the coastline. When you have had your fill of adventure for the day, you will board a boat and sail back to the mainland to return to your hotel.
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Day 8
Day 8 - Day 8: Kawasan Falls and Moalboal Sardine Run Tour
The next day, you will head to the harbor and take a ferry to Cebu Island. When you dock in the province, your guide will come to fetch you and escort you to your accommodation in the town of Argao. Then it's off to Badian town, where the magnificent Kawasan Falls awaits you. After swimming in the falls' natural pools, you will drive to Moalboal town.
From the town's shore, you will sail to Pescador Island, one of the surrounding isles that boasts white-sand beaches. Jump into the surrounding sea to find different marine animals swimming under the surface.
After that, you'll set sail for Turtle Island. You may swim alongside these friendly marine animals in this protected area. Following your time with the turtle, you will return to the mainland before proceeding to Panagsama Beach. The renowned Sardine Run takes place just a few meters off the beach at this location.
After a quick diving lesson, a guide will take you underwater to witness the natural wonder for yourself. Millions of sardines swim together in the race, forming silver walls that are so thick, they can block out the light. The best time to view the sardine run is between November to May.
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Day 9
Day 9 - Day 9: Cebu City Tour
You will spend your ninth day in the Philippines with a tour of Cebu City. First, your guide will transport you to your new accommodation in Mandaue. After that, you'll visit the Taoist Temple. It features tall towers in the entryway that looks like the Great Wall of China.
The Basilica Minore Del Santo Nino, the country's oldest Roman Catholic church, is the next stop on your itinerary. Magellan's Cross stands on the church grounds as well. After landing in the Philippines in 1521, Spanish adventurer Ferdinand Magellan erected this structure to commemorate the moment.
From there, you will travel to the Cebu Heritage Monument. This series of sculptures, which portray historical events in the region, was made by local artist Eduardo Castrillo. The Yap-San Diego Ancestral Home will be your next stop. You can find beautiful antique furniture in this 17th-century Chinese house.
You will then head to the Temple of Leah after your time in the ancestral home. This regal site was constructed by a local artist in 2012 to honor his wife. Finally, you will wrap up your city tour with a visit to the Sirao Flower Farm. This park, dubbed "Little Amsterdam of Cebu" by locals, is known for its vibrant flower beds.
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Day 10
Day 10 - Day 10: Puerto Princesa Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour
For Day 10, you will leave your Mandaue hotel and take a plane to Palawan Island. Your guide will pick you up from the Puerto Princesa International Airport when you land and bring you to your accommodation in Sabang. When you’ve checked in, you will make your way to Honda Bay to ride a boat that will take you to the surrounding islands.
This bay is well-known for its white-sand beach and crystal-clear waters, which are ideal for swimming. The first destination is Star Fish Island, which gets its name from the abundance of starfish species that stay on its sandbar. After your time here, you will proceed to Cowrie Island. It is the largest island in the bay and is shaped like a shell, hence its name.
Jump off your boat and dive right into the waters worry-free as nets have been placed around the area to keep jellyfish away. Finally, you will end your day with a stop at Luli Island. This isle features a sandbar that only emerges when the tide is low and has earned popularity for its smooth sand. Following your time here, you will sail back to the mainland, where your guide will drive you back to your hotel.
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Day 11
Day 11 - Day 11: Puerto Princesa Underground River and City Tour
The eleventh day will be dedicated to a tour of Puerto Princesa’s famed Underground River and its city proper. First, your guide will lead you to Sabang Wharf to ride a boat heading for the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. Aside from the river, this UNESCO World Heritage site is also a haven for native plants and animals.
When your boat reaches the park’s shores, you will follow your guide to a paddle boat that will take you across the Puerto Princesa Underground River. The cruise and the river go through a large karst cave filled with majestic limestone formations. Some of these formations even resemble popular sculptures from across the globe.
Afterward, you will sail back to the mainland and ride a van to Baker’s Hill. Here, you can buy delicious bread and snacks before stopping by Plaza Cuartel. This open space is marked with a restored garrison that dates back to World War II. Following this, you will go to Crocodile Farm, where you can learn all about these reptiles.
You will then travel to Mitra’s Ranch, a hilltop park that offers a stunning view of Puerto Princesa City and its skyline. Finally, you will end your day with a short stroll along the city’s baywalk.
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Day 12
Day 12 - Day 12: Departure to Manila
On Day 12, your guide will escort you to the Puerto Princesa International Airport as your vacation in the Philippines comes to a close. At the airport, you can buy some souvenirs before boarding your flight. Afterward, you will fly back to Manila City’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
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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.
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.
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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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