13-Day Best Islands, Nature & Historical Attractions Tour to Palawan, Bohol, Cebu & Dumaguete
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Description
Summary
Tour starts
Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
Duration
13 days
Ending place
Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
Languages:
English
Difficulty:
Easy
Minimum age:
None
Description
Explore some of the best natural attractions of the Philippines with this 13-day vacation. Visit the countryside of Bohol and Dumaguete, the historical landmarks of Cebu, and the pristine beaches of Palawan from Manila. This is the ideal trip for first-time travelers to the Philippines as the package already comes with accommodations, daily breakfast, transfers, entrance fees, and the service of guides.
Your guide will meet you at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport upon your arrival. From there, you will then head on a trip around Intramuros in Manila. Famous for being a walled district, Intramuros has become a favorite hotspot for picnics and historical and educational tours.
Fly to Bohol to see the idyllic landscape of Pamilacan Island. The Loboc River Cruise and Chocolate Hills are two of the other top destinations you will be visiting while in the province. After indulging in the countryside of Bohol, you will then board a ferry to Dumaguete, the City of Gentle People. There are several historical attractions you will see here, including Silliman University. You will also head off the coast to the beautiful Apo Island to discover its abundant marine life.
Don’t pack away your bathing suits just yet, as you will do more swimming at Kawasan Falls in Cebu. Apart from dipping in the water, you will also make your way to the highland area of the province to visit the Temple of Leah and Sirao Flower Farm. From there, you will fly to Palawan for an island-hopping trip across Honda Bay, do a cruise down the Underground River, and explore more islands in Port Barton. You will finish off your island-hopping adventures in El Nido, where you will visit the Big Lagoon before returning to Manila.
Make the most of your time in the Philippines with this 13-day vacation package to Bohol, Dumaguete, Cebu, and Palawan from Manila. Check availability by choosing a date.
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Included
12 nights accommodation (budget category)
12 days breakfast
12 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 12 - Puerto Princesa, Port Barton and El Nido Tour (Palawan)
Day 13 - Back to Manila
All transportation to and from included activities and destinations
All environmental fees, port fees, and all other applicable taxes
Upon your arrival at Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila, you will meet your guide and make your way to Intramuros. This 0.67-square-kilometer walled area is home to a myriad of historical landmarks dating back to the Spanish era, one of which is Fort Santiago.
Serving as a dungeon during the Spanish colonization, Fort Santiago used to house national hero Jose Rizal before he was executed in 1896. Head next to Plaza Roma to see the monument of Charles IV of Spain before diving into the past with a visit to Bahay Tsinoy and Casa Manila, two iconic museums in Intramuros.
From there, you will visit San Diego Gardens and Baluarte De San Diego, located on the southwestern corner of the district and less than a ten-minute walk from Casa Manila. This bastion used to be a drowning chamber back in the Spanish colonization days but is now a hotspot for weddings and special occasions.
After your refreshing walk around the bastion, your guide will bring you to San Agustin Church and Museum to admire its religious artwork and sculptures. Before retiring to your Manila hotel, you will visit Manila Cathedral, the episcopal seat of the Archbishop of Manila.
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Day 2
Day 2 - Day 2: Bohol Cambuhat Tour
You will travel to the province of Bohol on your second day. After checking out of your accommodation in Manila, you will fly to Panglao International Airport to see the serene location of Cambuhat Village in the municipality of Buenavista. Housing bountiful natural resources and numerous eco-tourism pursuits, Cambuhat Village has slowly become the town's pride.
To get to the village, you will hop off your van and board a paddleboat on Daet Bridge. You will then cruise along the Cambuhat River, where you can see mangroves and palm trees lining the banks.
Once you reach the village itself, you will visit the Cambuhat Oyster Farm, one of its key sources of livelihood. Here, you will learn how local people harvest oysters. There is also a small tourist center on the riverbanks that you will stop by.
After learning the art of oyster harvesting at the farm, you will have a hearty oyster lunch. The local people will entertain you during the meal with a traditional Buri dance. You can also see how local people produce woven goods with native looms. At the end of the day, your van will drive you straight to the breathtaking island of Panglao to rest at your hotel.
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Day 3
Day 3 - Day 3: Bohol Pamilacan Island Tour
You will travel from your Panglao hotel to the town of Baclayon, home of Pamilacan Island. This idyllic island is located in the middle of the Bohol Sea, about 12.5 kilometers from the mainland. Upon arriving in Baclayon, you will board a boat and sail to the island. Keep an eye out for whale sharks and dolphins along the way as they frequently hang around this spot.
Although Pamilacan now has a population of about 2,000, its natural beauty has been maintained. You will dock at the island’s white sand beach after about an hour, and then you can immediately go swimming or snorkeling. Expect to find a myriad of sea creatures here, including bucket sponges, sea tortoises, and a variety of fish species.
You are also welcome to sunbathe or stroll along the powdery beach. If you're looking for a more adrenaline-pumping experience, there are diving spots around the island. After you've had your fill of the water sports, you can take a short trip to the 200-year-old Spanish fort on the island's northeast coast. You will then sail back to the mainland at the end of the day and get some well-deserved rest at your Panglao lodging.
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Day 4
Day 4 - Day 4: Bohol Countryside Tour
From your accommodation in Panglao, you will head to the town of Corella to see the Corella Tarsier Sanctuary. This woodland field is home to a large tarsier population. You will find them resting in trees and jumping from one branch to another. Feel free to take as many photos of the adorable tarsiers as you like, but make sure to switch off your flash.
After visiting these googly-eyed primates, you will board a floating restaurant for the Loboc River Cruise. While cruising down the river's emerald streams, you will indulge yourself in a hefty buffet meal. Some locals will also entertain you with traditional Filipino songs and dances aboard.
Upon hopping off the restaurant, you will continue your tour to Baclayon Church. The church, dating back to 1595, is considered a National Cultural Treasure and National Historical Landmark. Your guide will then lead you to the Butterfly Conservatory that features a butterfly and insect collection and sells some butterfly products.
Over 5km from the sanctuary is the Bilar Forest, where you will find a 2km stretch of mahogany trees. Before retreating to your Panglao accommodation, you will visit the Chocolate Hills, declared the country's third National Geological Monument.
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Day 5
Day 5 - Day 5: Dumaguete City Tour
After checking out of your hotel in Panglao, you will board a ferry and sail to the neighboring province of Dumaguete. Your tour will begin upon your arrival, starting with a visit to the Silliman University Campus. This 62-hectare campus is registered as a National Landmark and has consistently topped Accountancy, Nursing, and Physical Therapy board exams in the country.
You will then proceed to Dumaguete's promenade, Rizal Boulevard, for a relaxing stroll along the beach. From there, you will then visit St. Catherine de Alexandria Cathedral and Dumaguete Campanario before stopping by the Dumaguete Public Market for a quick souvenir shopping.
You will also visit the Provincial Capitol and Freedom Park to see its well-manicured green lawn. A little over 1km from the capitol is the Claytown Pottery, where you can witness how locals make clay/pottery. Following this learning experience, you will make your way to Sidlakang Negros Village before stopping for lunch at Lab-as Seafood.
Your tour will continue to Valencia's Forest Camp and the Cata-al War Museum. From there, you will head to Bacong to see the San Agustin de Hippo Church, a National Cultural Treasure since 1972. You will then see various stone craft designs and artistry at the Negros Oriental Arts & Heritage Center before returning to your hotel in Dumaguete.
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Day 6
Day 6 - Day 6: Apo Island Tour
You will depart from your hotel in Dumaguete and make your way to the Malatapay Boat Terminal, some 24km away from your accommodation. You will then board a boat here and travel across the sea to Apo Island. Tucked away in Negros Island's southeast corner, this idyllic island is extremely popular among domestic and international visitors, owing primarily to its world-class diving destinations. That said, it is a host to a diverse array of marine life, so make sure to have your diving and snorkeling gear ready.
After arriving on the island, you'll make your way to the turtle sanctuary, where you can swim with these friendly sea creatures. Take pictures of the vibrant fish that live in the coral garden, as well. Swim to your heart's content and explore the depths of the ocean to make the most of your time on the island.
After having your fill of the water, you can sunbathe on the beach's powdery sand. You may opt to hike to the Apo Lighthouse or the Apo View Deck if you're feeling adventurous. Your guide can take you on the Habagat Eco-Trail, Witchy's Trail, or David's Trek, which all provide spectacular views of the local scenery. Following that, you'll return to your Dumaguete hotel.
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Day 7
Day 7 - Day 7: Kawasan Falls & Moalboal Sardine Run Tour
From your Dumaguete hotel, you'll make your way to a nearby harbor and take a ferry to Cebu. You will then head to Badian to see Kawasan Falls, a 40-meter high waterfall with cool natural springs and a refreshing atmosphere. To reach the falls, you will trek 1.5 kilometers uphill from the jump-off site.
Your guide will then take you to Moalboal, famous for its many white beaches. Pose for some photos on the beach before you board a boat that will sail you from the coast to Pescador Island. Pescador is Spanish for fishermen, a nod to the many fishermen that frequent the island for its abundance of seafood. While on the island, you will also visit Turtle Point, where you can swim with sea tortoises.
From there, make your way back to shore and to Panagsama Beach, where you will experience the famous sardine run. This underwater activity features millions of sardines swimming and circling just off-shore. The sardines were originally on Pescador Island, but they migrated to this location several years ago. Unlike the sardine run in South Africa, it is available all year. You will then return to your hotel in Argao.
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Day 8
Day 8 - Day 8: Cebu City Tour
Cebu, also known as the Queen City of the South, is the Philippines' oldest city. That said, Cebu is peppered with a handful of interesting historical landmarks, one of which is the Taoist Temple. The entrance to this temple is a replica of the Great Wall of China. Once you're inside, you will spot a chapel, library, wishing well, and souvenir shop.
Following your visit to the temple, your guide will bring you next to the Basilica Minore Del Santo Nino. This Roman Catholic Church was built on the spot where the image of the Santo Niño de Cebu was found during Spanish explorer Miguel López de Legazpi's expedition. Close to the church is another famous landmark known as the Magellan's Cross, which signifies the propagation of the Roman Catholic faith in the country.
From there, you will pose for a photo at the Heritage of Cebu Monument, a set of sculptures depicting the province's major historical incidents. Across the street from the memorial is the Yap-San Diego Ancestral Home. This ancestral-house-turned-museum was designed with Spanish and Chinese architectural influences. You will cap off your tour with a trip to the highlands, particularly at the Temple of Leah and the Sirao Flower Farm. After that, your van will take you to your Mandaue hotel.
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Day 9
Day 9 - Day 9: Puerto Princesa Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour
On Day 9, you will ride a plane to the Puerto Princesa Airport from Mactan Airport. Your guide will then meet you here and take you to Honda Bay on the province's eastern shore. This coastline is renowned for its immaculate white sand and abundant marine life. After posing for photos here, you'll board your boat and begin your island-hopping adventure with Starfish Island.
This crescent-shaped island is host to starfishes of varied sizes and colors. You will also spot a variety of fish species and corals here, making it a perfect spot for snorkeling. After getting out of the water, your boat will take you to Cowrie Island. Cowrie, named for its seashell shape, has a wealth of amenities for an enjoyable stay. You can rent a banana boat, go jet skiing, or even play frisbee and volleyball. Additionally, the island is peppered with pubs, restaurants, and cabanas.
You'll then make your way to Luli Island to conclude your day tour. Luli is often referred to as the sinking island because its sandbars usually vanish under the waves when the tide rises. Spend your day swimming or sunbathing here before you return to shore and make your way to your Sabang lodging.
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Day 10
Day 10 - Day 10: Puerto Princesa Underground River & City Tour
Your guide will bring you from your hotel in Sabang to Sabang Wharf, where you will take the boat into the world-renowned Puerto Princesa Princesa Underground River. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features limestone karst landscapes, natural beauty, and intact old-growth forests with distinctive wildlife.
You will then return to the mainland after your cruise and start your city tour with Baker's Hill. Sitting on a hilltop in Brgy. Sta Monica, this bakery/theme park offers a range of baked products and souvenirs. There are also some pizza parlors and restaurants here that you can order from. Following your trip to Baker's Hill, you will drop by the historic Plaza Cuartel next. It was formerly a military base with an old Spanish garrison and tunnels.
Your guide will then drive you to Crocodile Farm from the square. This research center is used for the conservation and studies of Palawan's endangered species, including crocodiles. You will also drop by Mitra's Ranch to see a panoramic view of the Puerto Princesa from its view deck. From the highlands, you will make your way to the coastline and stroll along Puerto Princesa Baywalk, the city's promenade, before retreating to your hotel in Sabang.
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Day 11
Day 11 - Day 11: Port Barton Island Hopping Tour
From your accommodation in Sabang, you will head to northern Palawan's western shore to explore Port Barton. This quaint village is located in the seaside town of San Vicente and is popularly known as the quieter, smaller, and more laid-back version of El Nido. While it isn't as luxurious as El Nido, it still draws a handful of visitors seeking a quieter getaway.
Numerous islands sit off the coast of Port Barton, one of which is the island of Inaladelan. Sometimes referred to as German Island, it has become a famous camping place for visitors. It is roughly 12 hectares in size and offers a range of sporting equipment, such as beach volleyball and kayaking.
From Inaladelan, your boat will then take you to Luli Sandbar. This attraction earned its name because it emerges at low tide and vanishes at high tide. It's an ideal spot for seeing the sunset or photographing starfish.
After that, your guide will bring you to the Turtle Snorkeling Site and Fish and Coral Snorkeling Site, where you will watch and swim with sea turtles and see more colorful fish and spectacular reefs. Once you've had your fill of Port Barton's underwater paradise, you'll return to your hotel in Lio.
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Day 12
Day 12 - Day 12: El Nido Island Hopping Tour
For Day 12, you will enjoy exploring El Nido's natural wonders. Your van will drive you from your hotel to the jump-off point, where your tour boat awaits. You will then sail across Bacuit Bay to start your island-hopping tour.
The Big Lagoon will be your first stop. The lagoon itself is hidden behind limestone cliffs with a small passageway that leads to the expansive pool. Here, you will be kayaking across the blue waters as you take as many photos as you wish.
Following that, your boat will bring you to Miniloc Island. This idyllic island is known for its white-sand beaches, limestone cliffs, and lush greenery. From there, you will then explore the Secret Lagoon, located right on the island. It was named as such because it is concealed behind towering dark limestone walls.
You will then go to Seven Commandos Beach on the mainland. Enjoy wading in the crystal clear waters here or sunbathing on its fine sand. Finally, you will travel to Shimizu Island to cap off the tour. This is the best spot for snorkeling as it is blanketed with corals and marine life. Your van will return you to your hotel in Lio afterward.
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Day 13
Day 13 - Day 13: Departure to Manila
You will check out of your accommodation in Lio on Day 13 and hop on a van bound for the Puerto Princesa International Airport. Here, you will board your plane for the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. You will then arrive in Manila in less than two hours.
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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.
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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