12-Day Philippines Scenic Spots Tour to Puerto Princesa Countryside & Luzon Highlands from Manila

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Travel details

Dates

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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

Escape to the tropical islands and scenic highlands of Puerto Princesa, Ilocos, and Baguio with this 12-day vacation package. This hassle-free package already includes roundtrip flights, land/ferry transfers, and accommodation.

Take a historical tour around the walled city of Intramuros. While marveling at various heritage sites, you will get a glimpse of the key events that took place during the Spanish colonial era. Then, head next to Marcos Museum in Ilocos Norte to see the memorial of former President Marcos.

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage City of Vigan and walk along Calle Crisologo. Then, you will head up north to the breathtaking Banaue, home to the famous rice terraces. Here, you will visit Banaue Museum to check out treasured jewelry and vintage photographs featuring Ifugao life.

Your scenic tour continues at the City of Pines, Baguio. Gaze at serene pine tree forests on your way to The Mansion, the official summer residence of the Philippine President. At Wright Park, you can go horseback riding. Then, you will ride a 4x4 vehicle to Mount Pinatubo.

This trip also includes roundtrip flights to the Visayas and Palawan. One of the highlights of your itinerary is visiting the Temple of Leah in Cebu. It is a symbol of Teodorico Soriano Adarna's undying love for his late wife, Leah Albino-Adarna. Up next is Sirao Flower Farm or Cebu’s Little Amsterdam. Then, you can go canyoneering to Badian’s Kawasan Falls.

From Cebu, you will fly to Puerto Princesa in Palawan. Discover the rich seascape when you go island-hopping to Honda Bay. Then, conclude your tour at Puerto Princesa Underground River, one of the 7 New Wonders of Nature.

See majestic sights and scenic highlands when you book this 12-day tour to Puerto Princesa, Ilocos, and Baguio from Manila. 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 4 - Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur (Ilocos Region)

Day 5 to 8 - Sagada, Banaue and Benguet Tour (Cordillera Region)

Day 9 - Mt. Pinatubo Tour

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

Activities

Island Hopping

Culture, Arts & Historical Tours

Map

Attractions

Manila Cathedral

Casa Manila

Bahay Tsinoy

Mt. Pinatubo

Starfish Island

Luli Island

Cowrie Island

Puerto Princesa Underground River

Philippine Military Academy

The Mansion

Camp John Hay

Mines View Park

Wright Park

General Yamashita Surrender Site

Ifugao Museum

Tappiya Waterfalls

Bontoc Village Museum

Syquia Mansion Museum

Pagburnayan Jar Factory

Crisologo Museum

Bantay Church Bell Tower

Calle Crisologo

Cape Bojeador Lighthouse

Malacañang of the North

Paoay Church

St. William Cathedral

Sinking Bell Tower

Honda Bay

Baker's Hill

Intramuros

Fort Santiago

San Agustin Church

Banga-an Village

St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral

Marcos Museum & Mausoleum or Balay Ti Ili

Bangui Windmills

La Paz Sand Dunes

Museo Ilocos Norte

Kapurpurawan Rock Formation

Patapat Viaduct

Strawberry Farm

Centennial Park

Good Shepherd Convent

Sumaguing Cave

Echo Valley

Crocodile Farm

Mitra's Ranch

Plaza Cuartel

Baluarte de San Diego

Plaza Roma

Banaue Museum

Northern Blossom Flower Farm

Puerto Princesa City Baywalk Park

Paraiso ni Anton

Agua Grande

Aurora Park

Baluarte Ilocos

Batad

Atok Sakura Flowers

2nd Highest Point

Pasuquin Salt Stand

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Daily itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 - Day 1: Intramuros Tour

Once you arrive at Ninoy Aquino International Airport, your private van will fetch you and take you to your hotel in Manila or near Roxas Boulevard. Your first destination is the walled city of Intramuros. While wandering around the cobblestone streets, you will see marvelous structures, museums, and century-old churches. Your first stop is Fort Santiago, an old fortress and prison cell for resistance fighters and political prisoners during the Spanish era. One of them is our national hero Jose Rizal who got executed in Bagumbayan. Up next is Plaza Roma, one of the three major public squares and trade centers in Intramuros. Then, you will visit Bahay Tsinoy to learn about the life and contributions of ethnic Chinese to Philippine history. Afterward, you will learn about the extravagant Ilustrado lifestyle at Casa Manila, an 1850s San Nicolas House replica. At San Diego Gardens, you will see pergolas between lush landscapes. Just across the garden, you will see Baluarte De San Diego, a 16th-century bastion. Lastly, you will visit San Agustin Church and Museum. It houses a bamboo organ and the hidden mausoleum of Miguel Lopez de Legazpi. Then, you will enter Manila Cathedral, the grand episcopal throne of the Archbishop of Manila.

Day 2

Day 2 - Day 2: Laoag Tour

On Day 2, you will go on a heritage tour to Ilocos Norte. You will take a short flight to Laoag Airport from Manila. Laoag City, also known as the Sunshine City, is home to several heritage sites and cultural attractions. Its name is derived from the Ilocano word, “Lawag” which means bright and light. Other than being a heritage city, Laoag also serves as the capital of Ilocos Norte. Your first destination is St. Williams Cathedral. It is just a few steps away from Sinking Bell Tower. As the name implies, the belfry tower sinks at least an inch into the ground every year. Your historical tour continues in Museo Ilocos Norte. Here, you will browse through antique collections depicting the region’s flourishing culture. Up next is Aurora’s Park, where you will see the 19th-century Tobacco Monopoly Monument. You will also marvel at Malacañang of the North, a former holiday residence of the Marcoses. At Batac town, you will go on a museum-hopping tour. Visit Marcos Museum to see the cenotaph of the late president Marcos. Lastly, you will explore the Juan and Antonio Luna Museum to learn about the life and works of the famous Luna brothers.

Day 3

Beautiful view from Patapat Viaduct in Ilocos

Day 3 - Day 3: Pagudpud Tour

On Day 3, your private van will pick you up from your hotel in Laoag City. You will proceed to the nearby towns of Burgos and Pagudpud in Ilocos Norte. Your first destination is Cape Bojeador Lighthouse. This famous watchtower stands on top of Vigia de Nagpartian Hill overlooking the West Philippine Sea. Then, you will proceed off the coast of Bangui Bay. It houses the famous Bangui Windmills, a wind farm with 20 giant turbines. Afterward, you will pass by Pagudpud’s scenic coastal bridge, known as the Patapat Viaduct. Up next is Agua Grande. It has a cold stream that flows to Pasaleng Bay. Your next destination is Paraiso ni Anton. Its water is believed to miraculously heal the sick. Then, you will visit the Kapurpurawan Rock Formation, a stunning rock attraction right beside the coastline of Burgos. After your fun-filled tour, you can drop by the stalls along the highway to buy some of the region’s best delicacies. At Pasuquin Salt Stand, you can purchase the best-tasting salt-preserved food in town. You may also book an add-on 4x4 ride for 4 pax to La Paz Sand Dunes, an 85 square kilometer coastal beach and desert in Ilocos Norte.

Day 4

Day 4 - Day 4: Vigan Tour

Tour around the UNESCO World Heritage City of Vigan on the 4th day of your vacation. Your private van will take you to your first destination, the National Museum Ilocos Regional Complex. You will get a glimpse of the region’s flourishing culture and heritage at the museum. Then, you will proceed to Bantay Church and Bell Tower. Here, you can capture the whole Bantay district and a portion of the nearby province of Abra. Up next is Syquia Mansion Museum, a 19-century traditional mansion featuring symbolic heirlooms of the Syquia family. Then, you will learn traditional pot making at Pagburnayan Jar Factory. You will also visit Crisologo Museum to see the antique furniture and belongings of Congressman Floro S. Crisologo and his family. Your Vigan tour continues at the historic Calle Crisologo. Here, you can find several ancestral houses and structures. Then, you will pay a short visit to St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral, also known as Vigan Cathedral. It is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia. Lastly, you will see life-size dinosaur statues and different kinds of wild animals at the Baluarte mini zoo. After your fun-filled Vigan tour, you will head back to your hotel.

Day 5

Day 5 - Day 5: Sagada Tour

From Vigan, you will leave early to prepare for another scenic tour up north. Your van destination is the rustic town of Sagada. To get there, you will drive along Halsema Highway, one of the highest roads in the Philippines. Your first stop is at Sugong Cave. It has an underground river with water coming from Bokong Falls. The water also irrigates the nearby Kapay-aw Rice Terraces. Afterward, you will pass through the Echo Valley. You will traverse the path leading to the famous hanging coffins on the side of the cliff. By doing this sacred tradition, the Ifugao believes that they can bring the dead closer to their ancestors. Sagada is a perfect spelunking spot with more than 60 caves. Sumaguing Cave is the largest among them. Inside the cave, you will see ancient stalactites and stalagmites. It also boasts natural pools and streams. Expect to get wet during your cave exploration. After your cave exploration, you will visit the Bontoc Tribal Museum. It showcases vast artifact collections, including traditional costumes, hunting weapons, and farming tools. Here, you will learn about the culture and traditions of the indigenous tribes in Mountain Province. At the end of your Sagada tour, you will return to your hotel.

Day 6

Day 6 - Day 6: Banaue Tour

On Day 6, you will head over to the scenic town of Banaue, home to amphitheater-like UNESCO World Heritage rice terraces. Your first destination is the town of Batad. Here, you will visit one of the earliest-made rice terraces, The Banaue Rice Terraces or Hagdang-hagdang Palayan. Over 2,000 years ago, the Ifugao ancestors carved the paddy fields to be their main rice plantation. To get the best view of the terraces, you can go up the Batad Banaue Viewpoint. You may also trade Batad Banaue Viewpoint for a short visit to the Tappiya Waterfall. Upon arriving at the falls, reward yourself by taking a dip into its refreshing waters. Up next is Banga-an Village, a small village consisting of cogon-made houses. The village people raise their domesticated animals on their ground floor. Livestock farming is one of their main sources of livelihood. Inside the village, you will get a chance to learn about the villagers’ customs and traditions. At the end of your scenic tour, you will visit the Banaue Museum. You can also browse through treasured jewelry, traditional headdress, weaponry, and Igorot artifacts. This two-story ethnic museum exhibits the life of the Ifugao tribes through vintage portraits.

Day 7

Day 7 - Day 7: Baguio Tour

On your seventh day, you will visit the Summer Capital of the Philippines, Baguio. Your private van will take you to Baguio’s lush landscapes and breathtaking sceneries. You will gaze at scenic pine tree forests while savoring the cool breeze. Your first stop is at Ifugao Museum, which features the Ifugao’s ancient traditions. Next, you will visit the Surrender Site of General Yamashita, a historic site to commemorate Yamashita’s act of surrendering during World War II. Your next stop is the Philippine Military Academy, a premier institution for aspiring military officers in the country. Then, you will head to Fort De Pilar, which occupies 373 hectares of land. You will also visit The Mansion, the official summer residence of the Philippine President. You will marvel at Camp John Hay, a former US military base. It is now a famous adventure hub. Up next is Mines View Park. You will proceed to its view deck to capture the best view of the Benguet mountain ranges. Afterward, you can go horseback riding and sightseeing at Wright Park and Centennial Park. Finally, you will visit the Good Shepherd Convent to purchase Baguio’s best-selling treats, including the famous ube jam or purple yam.

Day 8

Day 8 - Day 8: Benguet Tour

The next leg of your scenic highlands tour up north continues in Benguet province. From Baguio, your van will take you to the 79-hectare La Trinidad Strawberry Farm. During the 19th century, the Spaniards brought the production of strawberries to La Trinidad. Every year, the farm cultivates 1,775 metric tons of strawberries per harvest. Your second destination is at Atok Sakura Flowers, featuring around 30 beautiful cherry blossom trees. The cherry blossom seedlings were a gift to the municipality of Atok from the Japanese government. For your next activity, you will admire the colorful flower fields in Northern Blossom Flower Farm. This three-hectare farm cultivates snapdragons, Peruvian lilies, and other exotic blooms from Japan. You will also witness the rolling mountain ranges of Mt. Timbak and Mt. Pulag nearby. Don’t miss out on the chance to take stunning photos behind the majestic fields. Then, you will drop by the 2nd Highest Point along Halsema Highway. Here, you can capture a panoramic view of the nearby mountains. You will see Mt. Timbak, one of the highest mountains in Luzon. Then, you will traverse the Spanish Trail. A breathtaking view of the surrounding mountain ranges awaits you at the end of the trail.

Day 9

Rocky trail going to the peak of Mt. Pinatubo

Day 9 - Day 9: Mt. Pinatubo Tour

Feel the adrenaline rush on the 9th day of your vacation. You will ride a 4x4 vehicle and go trekking to reach Mt. Pinatubo’s majestic crater lake. This active stratovolcano is situated between the provinces of Tarlac, Pampanga, and Zambales. Mt. Pinatubo erupted in 1991, leaving hundreds of houses, buildings, and structures buried in lahar. It is considered the world’s largest volcanic eruption in the past 100 years. After three decades, Mount Pinatubo is now a famous hiking spot in Northern Luzon. To get there, you have to reach the base camp in Tarlac’s Barangay Sta. Juliana by riding a van. At the jump-off point, you will switch to a 4x4 vehicle. Due to previous eruptions, the terrain has been filled with lahar. You will experience a rough and bumpy ride while passing by rocky terrains. Before your trekking escapade, you have to wear proper hiking gear to ensure your safety. The 4x4 jeep will be passing through the Crow Valley. Upon arrival, you will get off the vehicle to go on trekking toward the mountain’s deck. By the end of your tour, you will witness Mt. Pinatubo’s jade-green crater lake.

Day 10

Cowrie Island in Puerto Princesa Palawan

Day 10 - Day 10: Puerto Princesa Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour

Fly off to the world-class islands of Palawan on the 10th day of your vacation. From Manila, you will board a plane to Puerto Princesa International Airport. At the terminal, your private van will take you to a nice hotel in Sabang. You will go island-hopping to the majestic islands dotting Honda Bay. Puerto Princesa is a beautiful coastal city that serves as the capital of Palawan. It features white-sand beaches and stunning cave systems, including the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. Just like the nearby Palawan attractions, it also boasts majestic islands and rich marine sanctuaries. First, you will head to Starfish Island. As the name implies, the island shelters different kinds of starfishes, including the perfectly symmetrical five-armed orange starfish. There are also exotic fishes on the island, including pufferfishes and yellowtail snappers. Second, you will explore the boomerang-shaped Cowrie Island. It is the largest island in Honda Bay. To explore the vast seascape, you can snorkel or ride a banana boat. You can also rent cabanas and huts on the island. Finally, you will discover the powdery white sandbar at Luli Island. It emerges depending on the shifting tides. The name Luli came from the phrase Lulubog-Lilitaw, which means sink and arise.

Day 11

Tour of the Puerto Princesa Underground River

Day 11 - Day 11: Puerto Princesa Underground River and City Tour

On your 11th day, you will enter the Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From Sabang Boat Terminal, you will ride a boat to Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. Recognized as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, the 8km-long underground river directly emerges into the sea. It showcases spectacular limestone cliffs, natural rock formations, and stunning cave systems. After your underground river cruise, you will head to the city proper. Your first stop is at Baker’s Hill, where you can purchase baked goodies and local pastries. Then, you will visit Plaza Cuartel. It is a former Spanish garrison and penal colony that has become a leisure park. Up next is Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center, a research center and breeding facility. It houses saltwater and Philippine crocodiles that are critically endangered species in Palawan. Afterward, you will proceed to your last two destinations, Mitra’s Ranch and Puerto Princesa Baywalk. Witness a breathtaking view of the city on top of Mitra’s Ranch. At the end of your Puerto Princesa escapade, you can stroll along the Puerto Princesa Baywalk. Afterward, you will head back to your hotel in Sabang.

Day 12

Day 12 - Day 12: Departure to Manila

It’s time to leave Palawan on the last day of your fun-filled 12-day vacation. Expect your private van service to pick you up from your hotel in Panglao, Bohol. Then, you will board a direct flight to Ninoy Aquino International Airport. You will head back to where you started, Manila.

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.

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.