12-Day Philippines Stunning Outdoor Trip to Puerto Princesa Countryside, Cebu City & Luzon Highlands

Taoist Temple in Cebu
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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

Witness stunning outdoor spots with this 12-day heritage tour to Puerto Princesa, Cebu, Ilocos, and Baguio from Manila. For your convenience, this hassle-free package already includes roundtrip flights, land/ferry transfers, and accommodation.

Go on a sightseeing tour in the walled city of Intramuros. You will come across several historical sites and landmarks, including Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral, and Casa Manila. Learn about the events that happened during the Spanish colonial period. Then, you will continue your heritage tour at the Malacañang of the North, the former presidential mansion of the Marcoses.

Along the scenic coastline of Ilocos Norte, you will find the giant wind turbines of Bangui Windmills. Afterward, you will explore the UNESCO World Heritage City of Vigan. Stroll along the historic Calle Crisologo to see various ancestral houses built during the Spanish period. You will travel back in time while marveling at this Hispanic town.

Continue your vacation up north to the City of Pines, Baguio. Try some outdoor activities at Camp John Hay, a leisure spot and former US military base in Baguio. Then, visit Mines View Park to capture the breathtaking mountain ranges of Benguet. Before leaving, you will drop by La Trinidad Strawberry Farm to pick some fresh strawberries.

Level up your adventure and ride a 4x4 vehicle to Mount Pinatubo, an active stratovolcano that erupted in 1991. Afterward, you will head back to Manila to board a plane to Puerto Princesa. You will also go island-hopping to Starfish Island, Luli Sandbar, and Cowrie Island dotting Honda Bay. Then, cap off your tour at Puerto Princesa Underground River, one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature.

Discover scenic heritage attractions and stunning outdoor spots with this 12-day tour to Puerto Princesa, Cebu, Ilocos, and Baguio from Manila. 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 to 3 - Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur (Ilocos Region)
Day 5 to 6 - Banaue and Baguio Tour (Cordillera Region)
Day 7 - Mt. Pinatubo Tour
Day 8 to 9 - 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

Activities

Island Hopping
Culture, Arts & Historical Tours

Daily itinerary

Day 1
Sunrise in Fort Santiago Manila

Day 1 - Day 1: Intramuros Tour

On your first day, you will arrive at Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Your private van will fetch you and take you to your hotel in Manila or near Roxas Boulevard. Jumpstart your heritage tour at the walled city of Intramuros. You will wander around 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 colonial period. Up next is Plaza Roma, one of the major trade centers in Intramuros. Afterward, you will visit Bahay Tsinoy to understand the life and contributions of ethnic Chinese to Philippine history. Then, you will learn about the rich Illustrado lifestyle at Casa Manila, an 1850s San Nicolas House replica. At San Diego Gardens, you will see gazebos and pergolas between lush landscapes. Just across the garden, you will see Baluarte De San Diego, a 16th-century bastion. Finally, you will enter the San Agustin Church and Museum. Here, you will find a bamboo organ and the hidden mausoleum of Miguel Lopez de Legazpi. You will also visit the 300-year-old Manila Cathedral, the grand episcopal throne of the Archbishop of Manila.
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Day 2
UNESCO Heritage Site Paoay church in Ilocos

Day 2 - Day 2: Laoag Tour

On Day 2, you will marvel at several historical landmarks at Ilocos Norte. From Manila, you will board a plane to Laoag Airport. You will stay in a nice hotel in Laoag. Laoag City, also known as the Sunshine City, is home to beautifully preserved architecture. Its name came from the Ilocano word, “Lawag” which means bright and light. Deemed as an industrial hub in Ilocos Norte, Laoag City also serves as the provincial capital. Your first destination is St. Williams Cathedral. The Sinking Bell Tower is only a few steps away from the cathedral. As the name implies, the belfry tower sinks at least an inch into the ground every year. Your fun-filled journey continues at Museo Ilocos Norte. Here, you will see antique collections depicting the region’s flourishing culture. Next, you will see the 19th-century Tobacco Monopoly Monument in the middle of Aurora’s Park. You will also marvel at Malacañang of the North, a former holiday residence of the Marcoses. In Batac town, you will visit the Marcos Museum to see the cenotaph of the late President Marcos. Finally, you will explore the Juan and Antonio Luna Museum to learn about the life and works of the famous Luna brothers.
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Day 3
A kalesa while exploring Calle Crisologo in Vigan

Day 3 - Day 3: Vigan Tour

Travel back in time to the UNESCO World Heritage City of Vigan on the third day of your vacation. Your private van will take you to your first stop, the National Museum Ilocos Regional Complex. You will learn about the region’s rich 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, featuring 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 wild animals at the Baluarte mini zoo. After your fun-filled Vigan tour, you will head back to your hotel.
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Day 4
Echo Valley in Sagada

Day 4 - Day 4: Sagada Tour

On Day 4, you will leave early from Vigan to reach another scenic spot up north. 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 nearby Kapay-aw Rice Terraces also gets the same water source from the falls. Then, you will traverse the Echo Valley. You will pass through the path leading to the famous hanging coffins on the side of the cliff. The Igorot tribes practice this sacred burial tradition with hopes of bringing the dead closer to their ancestors. Sagada boasts more than 60 caves, making it a perfect spelunking spot. Sumaguing Cave is the largest among them. Once you’re inside the cave, you will see ancient stalactites and stalagmites. It also features 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 like 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 head back to your accommodation.
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Day 5
Tappiya Waterfalls in Banaue

Day 5 - Day 5: Banaue Tour

Your next destination in your highlands tour is the scenic town of Banaue, home to amphitheater-like UNESCO World Heritage rice terraces. On Day 5, your private van will take you to the laid-back town of Batad. Upon arrival, you will visit one of the earliest-made rice terraces, The Banaue Rice Terraces or Hagdang-hagdang Palayan. More than 2,000 years ago, the Ifugao ancestors tirelessly carved the paddy fields using their bare hands. To witness 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. The enchanting view of the falls awaits you upon arriving at the Tappiya Waterfall. Up next is Banga-an Village, a small village consisting of cogon-made houses. The ground floor is built for domesticated animals. Livestock farming is one of their main sources of livelihood. Inside the village, you will get a chance to learn about the traditions of the village people. 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 also highlights the life of the Ifugao tribes through vintage portraits.
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Day 6
A horse in Wright Park, Baguio

Day 6 - Day 6: Baguio Tour

On your 6th day, you will enjoy the cool breeze in the Summer Capital of the Philippines, Baguio. Your private van will fetch you early from your Banaue accommodation. Your first stop is at Ifugao Museum, which features the Ifugao’s ancient traditions. Next, you will drop by the Surrender Site of General Yamashita, a notable landmark to honor Yamashita’s act of surrendering during World War II. Up next 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 tour around Camp John Hay, a former US military base. It is now a famous adventure hub and leisure spot in Baguio. Up next is Mines View Park, where you can capture the best view of the Benguet mountain ranges. Afterward, you can go horseback riding and sightseeing at Wright Park and Centennial Park. Before leaving Baguio, you will visit the Good Shepherd Convent to purchase Baguio’s best-selling treats, including the famous ube jam or purple yam.
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Day 7
Rocky path in Mount Pinatubo

Day 7 - Day 7: Mt. Pinatubo Tour

Level up your escapade on the 7th day of your vacation. You will ride a 4x4 vehicle and trek to reach Mt. Pinatubo’s beautiful crater lake. This active stratovolcano is located between the provinces of Tarlac, Pampanga, and Zambales. Mt. Pinatubo erupted in 1991. This massive eruption destroyed hundreds of houses, buildings, and structures in nearby towns. It is considered the world’s largest volcanic eruption in the past 100 years. After 30 years, 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 along the way. 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 breathtaking crater lake.
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Day 8
Taoist Temple in Cebu City

Day 8 - Day 8: Cebu City Tour

From Manila, you will board a plane to Mactan-Cebu International Airport. You will be staying in a nice hotel in Mandaue City. Your Cebu City tour begins at Taoist Temple. This hilltop temple showcases a replica of the Great Wall of China with dragon statues. After touring around the temple, you can also purchase souvenir items at the shop on-site. In downtown Cebu, you will visit Basilica Minore Del Santo Nino, the country’s oldest Roman Catholic church. You can find the iconic Magellan’s Cross a few meters from the church. It was established to commemorate Magellan’s expedition to Cebu in 1521. Get a glimpse of Cebu’s glorious past at the Heritage of Cebu Monument. Here, you will see Spanish galleons and other relevant symbols. It also depicts significant events in history, including the Battle of Mactan. Well-known figures like Sergio Osmena, the 4th President of the country, are also shown here. Up next is Yap-San Diego Ancestral House, a 17th-century Chinese settlement. Then, you will marvel at the Temple of Leah or Cebu’s Taj Mahal. Finally, you will explore Sirao Flower Farm to see colorful blooms. This majestic flower garden is deemed as Cebu’s Little Amsterdam.
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Day 9
Moalboal Island in Cebu

Day 9 - Day 9: Kawasan Falls and Moalboal Sardine Run Tour

Your adventurous escapade in Cebu continues in Badian and Moalboal town. You will leave early from your hotel in Mandaue City to go canyoneering at Kawasan Falls. Prepare to scramble and crawl through the slippery rocks along the beautiful gorges and river canyons of the Badian River. Upon arriving at the crystal clear emerald falls, you will jump off the cliff as high as 30 feet. Then, plunge into the natural pools and lagoons surrounding Kawasan Falls. After your cliff-diving adventures, you will ride a boat to reach the world-class marine sanctuaries in Moalboal. You will discover stunning coral gardens and colorful exotic fishes. One of the highlights of your Moalboal tour is the magnificent sardine run. You will swim with countless sardines merging in perfect unison at Pescador Island. The main point of interest for divers is the underwater cave, known as The Cathedral. You will swim through cave exits as deep as 18 meters. You can also relax at the nearby Panagsama Beach. At Turtle Island, you will swim with sea turtles and other aquatic creatures. After your jam-packed tour to Moalboal, you will head back to your accommodation.
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Day 10
Beach in Honda Bay Palawan

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

Experience an unforgettable tropical getaway 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 awaits you. You will be staying in a nice hotel in Sabang. Puerto Princesa is the provincial capital of Palawan. It boasts turquoise-colored waters, white-sand beaches, and stunning cave systems. To experience the best of Puerto Princesa, you will go island-hopping to the majestic islands and rich marine sanctuaries of Honda Bay. 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. Other marine species on the island include pufferfishes and yellowtail snappers. Afterward, you will explore the boomerang-shaped Cowrie Island. It is the largest island in Honda Bay. Snorkeling and banana boat riding are some of the must-try activities on the island. You can also rent cabanas and huts. Finally, you will explore 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.
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Day 11
Cliffs surrounding the underground river of Puerto Princesa Palawan

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

The last leg of your Palawan tour will take place at 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. Named as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, the 8km-long underground river covers around 22,000 hectares of land area. It features 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 shelters critically endangered species in Palawan, including saltwater and Philippine crocodiles. Afterward, you will proceed to your last two destinations, Mitra’s Ranch and Puerto Princesa Baywalk. Capture a breathtaking view of the city on top of a hilltop park at Mitra’s Ranch. Then, you will head to Puerto Princesa Baywalk, where you can catch the sunset. Afterward, you will head back to your hotel in Sabang.
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Day 12
Manila sign near the airport in Manila

Day 12 - Day 12: Departure to Manila

Cap off your 12-day vacation in Palawan. Your private van will fetch you from your hotel and take you to the Puerto Princesa International Airport. Then, you will board a direct flight to Ninoy Aquino International Airport. You will head back to where you started, 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.

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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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