13-Day Philippines Natural Wonders & Islands Trip to Puerto Princesa City, Bohol Island & Cordillera

Aerial view of Luli Island in Palawan
Likely to sell out soon
Perfect travel plan
Fully customizable
Full customer support

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

Visit the picturesque islands, gorgeous highlands, and cultural landmarks of the Philippines through this 13-day vacation package. You will visit the historic buildings of Manila City and the Ilocos region, the scenic peaks and caves in Sagada town, Banaue, Baguio City, and Tarlac province before setting foot on the shores of Bohol Island and Palawan Island. This package already comes with transportation, hotels, daily breakfasts, transportation, entrance fees, and the service of guides. 

Your guide will fetch you at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila. You will then go to Intramuros, a walled district inside the city. Several buildings dating back to the Spanish era in the country can be found here. Next, you will fly to Ilocos Norte to visit the Marcos Museum and the Bangui Windmills. You will also stroll along the cobblestones of Calle Crisologo in Ilocos Sur. 

Afterward, you will ride a van up to Banaue and drop by their local museum. This package includes a trip to The Mansion and Wright Park in the neighboring province of Baguio as well. From there, you will trek to Mt. Pinatubo’s peak in Tarlac. You will then return to Manila to catch a flight to Bohol.  Here, you will enjoy a delicious buffet on a Loboc River Cruise before viewing the Chocolate Hills.

From there, you will board a plane bound for Puerto Princesa City to explore Cowrie Island’s powdery white-sand coastline and other stunning isles in the same bay. Lastly, you will sail down the world-famous Underground River. This stunning river has gained popularity worldwide, earning it the title of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Book this 13-day package and immerse in the best spots across Manila, Ilocos, Sagada, Banaue, Baguio, Tarlac, Bohol, and Puerto Princesa. Check availability by choosing a date.

Read more

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 4 - Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur (Ilocos Region)
Day 5 to 7 - Sagada, Banaue and Baguio Tour (Cordillera Region)
Day 8 - Mt. Pinatubo Tour
Day 9 to 10 - Bohol Tour (Central Visayas)
Day 11 to 12 - Puerto Princesa 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

Activities

Culture, Arts & Historical Tours

Daily itinerary

Day 1
Stone structure of Baluarte de San Diego in Manila

Day 1 - Day 1: Intramuros Tour

Your guide will meet you at Ninoy Aquino International Airport on the first day and take you to your accommodation in Manila City or along Roxas Boulevard. Then it's straight to Intramuros. Several cultural sites were established inside this area throughout the country's Spanish colonization period. Your first stop inside is Fort Santiago, a fortress that was formerly used as a prison. After that, it's time to go to Plaza Roma. During the Spanish era, officials frequently used this public area for bullfights and other festivities. You will next proceed to Bahay Tsinoy to learn about the history of Filipino-Chinese ties. Then you will go to Casa Manila, a museum built in a traditional Spanish household. From there, you will walk through the San Diego Gardens to visit the Baluarte de San Diego. Finally, you will enter two majestic churches that stand in the district before heading back to your hotel. The San Agustin Church and Museum is your first destination. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was constructed during the 1600s. You will then visit the Manila Cathedral. It was originally designed as a small parish but was converted into a cathedral in 1958.
Read more
Day 2
Beautiful Paoay Church in Laoag

Day 2 - Day 2: Laoag Tour

After checking out of your Manila hotel, you will fly to Laoag Airport. Upon arrival, your guide will transport you to Laoag City, which is home to St. Williams Cathedral. This church was erected in 1612 and is notable for its Italian Renaissance-style architecture. The 150-foot Sinking Bell Tower is also just a few feet away from the church. It is the tallest structure in Laoag City. As its name suggests, it is also believed to sink an inch every year due to its sandy foundation. Following that, you'll go to Museo Ilocos Norte, which shows a variety of objects depicting the daily life of the residents' elders. Then you will travel to Aurora Park, where you will see the 1881 Tobacco Monopoly Monument. You will next proceed to the Malacanang of the North in the town of Paoay. Former Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos lived here throughout his presidency. The Paoay Church will be your next visit. This church is one of the region's most well-known landmarks, having been recognized as a National Cultural Treasure and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Marcos Museum, which is dedicated to the former president's political career, will be the last stop of your day.
Read more
Day 3
Roadside view from Patapat Viaduct in Ilocos

Day 3 - Day 3: Pagudpud Tour

On the third day, you will go to Burgos to see the Cape Bojeador Lighthouse. This lighthouse was first operated in 1892 and continues to direct sailors to safety. From there, you will make your way down to Bangui Bay, where you will find the towering Bangui Windmills. The twenty-six wind turbines are 70 meters tall and produce sustainable power for villages in Ilocos Norte. The Patapat Viaduct is your next destination. It is a coastal bridge connecting the Ilocos Region and the adjacent province of Cagayan Valley. After that, your guide will drive you to Agua Grande Park. This park features a clear and cool stream that connects to Pasaleng Bay and is a favorite picnic site among locals. Then you will travel to Paraiso ni Anton, which has a supposedly miraculous stream. You will next make your way to the Kapurpurawan Rock Formation. Visitors can ride a horse or trek to see the formations closer. Finally, you will stop at the Pasuquin Salt Stand, where locals sell the area's famous fresh-made sea salt. Tourists wishing for a more exciting experience may also take a 4x4 trip across the La Paz Sand Dunes before returning to the hotel.
Read more
Day 4
Tall structure of Bantay Watch Tower in Ilocos

Day 4 - Day 4: Vigan Tour

You will leave Laoag the next day and go to Vigan City. The National Museum Ilocos Sur Complex is the first cultural highlight of this UNESCO World Heritage Site that you will see. The Bantay Church and Bell Tower will be your next stop. After being wrecked during World War II, both structures have undergone various restorations. When the fighting got close to the town, the locals used the belfry as a watchtower. After that, you will go to the Syquioa Mansion Museum on Quirino Boulevard, dedicated to Elpidio Quirino, the Vigan-born sixth Philippine President. After that, you will travel to the Pagburnayan Jar Factory, where you may try making your own clay pot. This craft has been a part of the province's culture for generations. Then it's over to the Crisologo Museum. It was once the home of former Ilocos Sur Representative Floro Crisologo, but it is now a museum with family items on display. Then you'll take a stroll along Calle Crisologo, a cobblestone lane framed with traditional Spanish houses. The Vigan Cathedral, also known as St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral, will be your next stop. Finally, before returning to your Calle Crisologo hotel, you will drop by the Baluarte zoo.
Read more
Day 5
Scenic view of Sagada

Day 5 - Day 5: Sagada Tour

Early in the morning, you will check out of your accommodation and board a van to Sagada. The roads going to this rural town, which is nestled in the Cordillera Mountains, are typically narrow and winding, so expect a bumpy journey. It also contains around 60 caverns, making it an excellent spelunking location. Your guide will bring you to your hotel in the city proper upon your arrival. Sugong Cave is your first stop in this mountain village. Coffins are hung from the cliffs in this area and are visible from this cave. For decades, hanging coffins have been a burial tradition observed by the native tribes here. Then, on your way back to town, you will travel through Echo Valley. After that, you'll go to Sumaguing Cave, the largest cave in the area. This cave, approximately an hour's walk from Sagada City Hall, has large chambers with rock formations. Stalactites and stalagmites that have developed through time can also be found here. The Bontoc Tribal Museum is your final visit for the day, where you may learn about the indigenous Ifugao tribe's culture. To give you a clearer sense of how they live, a rebuilt traditional Ifugao village has been built behind the center.
Read more
Day 6
Stair-like rice terraces in Banaue

Day 6 - Day 6: Banaue Tour

A trip to the Banaue highlands is scheduled for Day 6. When you arrive in the province, you will check into your hotel in the town proper before heading to the world-famous Banaue Rice Terraces. The amphitheater-like structure, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, distinguishes this province. These rice terraces are an agricultural method that dates back hundreds of years. Thanks to its design, it has also become a picturesque tourist spot. The Batad Banaue Viewpoint will be your next stop. This observation point gives a panoramic view of the terraces and is roughly a 30-minute walk from them. Otherwise, you can choose to add a visit to the Tappiya Waterfalls instead. Another alternative is to skip the falls and proceed directly to Banga-an Village. This tranquil community, located just below the Batad intersection, features numerous Ifugao homes. Take your time walking around the neighborhood and learning about this traditional Filipino clan. Finally, a visit to the Banaue Museum will bring your day to a close. It is well renowned for its spectacular exhibition of Igorot tribal heirlooms. The tale of how Japanese Imperial Army General Tomoyuki Yamashita was captured is also told at this cultural institution.
Read more
Day 7
Watching the sunset from Mines View Park in Baguio

Day 7 - Day 7: Baguio Tour

For the seventh day, your guide will drive you to Baguio City. You will first make your way to your accommodation in the city before going to Kiangan. The Ifugao Museum, which houses a collection of relics from the native tribe, is located here. Religious sculptures and machetes are among the items on display. After that, you'll visit the World War II surrender location of General Yamashita. From there, you'll proceed to the Baguio campus of the Philippine Military Academy. Visitors may view vintage tanks and other military equipment that are on exhibit. The Mansion, a 1908 summer residence for US governors-general, is your next stop. Over the years, it eventually became the official summer getaway for Philippine presidents. Following that, you will be visiting Camp John Hay. It was once a recreation center for the US Army but is now a leisure complex. A hotel, commercial centers, and a convention center all stand on the 246-hectare site. Next, you'll visit Mines View Park, which is a must-see destination in Baguio. This observation deck offers a beautiful view of the Itogon mining town. Afterward, take a rest in Wright Park and Centennial Park before finishing the day at the Good Shepherd Convent.
Read more
Day 8
Viewing area of Mount Pinatubo Crater Lake

Day 8 - Day 8: Mt. Pinatubo Tour

The following morning, you will leave the highlands and travel to the province of Tarlac. The famous Mt. Pinatubo will be explored on Day 9 of the trip. After erupting in 1991, this active volcano became a popular trekking destination near Manila City. You must first register at the Sta. Juliana Tourism Center before beginning your journey to the mountain's foot. Here, you will swap your van for a 4x4 vehicle capable of transporting you across the rugged and sandy landscape that surrounds the volcano. Travelers will also pass through Crow Valley as they go to the mountain's base. You will depart and walk the path to the summit once you reach the jump-off location. The trail is approximately 5.4 kilometers in length and usually takes tourists two hours to finish. On the way up, you will likely come across lava sand formations from the 1991 eruption. The crater lake's beautiful emerald waters will greet you once you reach the end of the walk. By the lake's side, you may relax and have a hearty meal. Afterward, you will return to the tourist information center. From there, your guide will drive you to your new hotel along Manila's Baywalk.
Read more
Day 9
Fresh oysters from Cambuhat Oyster Farm

Day 9 - Day 9: Bohol Cambuhat Tour

Your guide will pick you up from your Manila City hotel the next day. The second part of your trip will take you on a plane to Panglao International Airport in Bohol Island. You will then be escorted to your Panglao Island hotel upon arrival. After that, you will travel to Cambuhat Village, which is located on the island's serene area towards the northwest. This hidden treasure has slowly grown in popularity over the years. It is mainly recognized for its diverse natural habitat and tranquil atmosphere. Then, at the Daet Bridge, you will board a paddle boat for a trip down the beautiful Cambuhat River. This tourist attraction is surrounded by rich greenery such as mangroves and nipa trees that fill the surroundings with fresh air. After that, you will stop the boat by the Cambuhat Oyster Farm's small dock. This farm is the village's major source of revenue and offers residents secure employment. Aside from harvesting the oysters, the staff here also teaches visitors all about them, including how they are bred and prepared for the markets. You will then be treated to a delicious dinner of fresh oysters at the end of your stay.
Read more
Day 10
Loboc River in Bohol

Day 10 - Day 10: Bohol Countryside Tour

On the tenth day, your guide will fetch you from your hotel and take you on a tour of the beautiful countryside of Bohol Island. Corella Tarsier Sanctuary is the first stop. You can take photos with Tarsiers, the world's tiniest primates, in this animal conservation center. Then you'll head to the Loboc River to unwind and immerse in nature. Following your arrival at this popular spot, you will join a Loboc River Cruise and enjoy a tasty buffet lunch on board. The staff on this floating restaurant will serenade you with Filipino music and entertain you with folk dances while you feast. After that, you'll visit the Baclayon Church, a National Cultural Treasure of the country. From there, you'll travel to the Butterfly Conservatory, which has about 200 different species of butterflies. You'll then visit the Bilar Forest, a man-made forest filled with mahogany trees. Finally, your day's trip will come to a close at the province's top destination, the Chocolate Hills. In the summer, the grass on these symmetrical hills turns dark, giving them the appearance of chocolate drops. Afterward, your guide will take you back to your accommodation on Panglao Island.
Read more
Day 11
Island-hopping experience in Honda Bay Palawan

Day 11 - Day 11: Puerto Princesa Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour

For your next day's trip, you will leave your hotel and catch a flight to Palawan Island. Your guide will then meet you at the Puerto Princesa Airport and take you to your Sabang hotel via a van. You will then travel to Honda Bay for a day of island hopping once you've settled in. This bay is a great spot for swimmers and beach lovers as the waters are crystal-clear, and the shore is filled with white sand. You will board a boat from the beach to begin your tour of the bay's islands. The first destination is Star Fish Island, named after the starfish that stay on its sandbar. You will then sail to the biggest island in Honda Bay: Cowrie Island. The island gets its name from its shell-like shape. Dive directly into the island's surrounding waters without fear of encountering jellyfish since nets have been installed to keep them away. Finally, your island-hopping adventure comes to a close with a visit to Luli Island. The sandbar here is a popular tourist attraction. This strip of sand, dubbed the "disappearing" sandbar, only appears when the tide is low. Afterward, you will go back to the mainland.
Read more
Day 12
Entrance to the Puerto Princesa Underground River in Palawan

Day 12 - Day 12: Puerto Princesa Underground River and City Tour

On Day 12, you will spend a day exploring the attractions inside and near Puerto Princesa City. Your guide will first drive you to Sabang Wharf, where you will board a boat. From there, you will sail to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, which is also declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you will ride a paddle boat that will take you on a trip down the world-famous Puerto Princesa Underground River. Spectacular limestone structures may be seen as you sail into the tunnel. Keep your eyes open as the guide will show you formations that look like popular statues from across the globe. Afterward, you'll board a boat to return to the mainland. A vehicle will transport you to Baker's Hill, where you may purchase delectable pastries. Next, you'll go to Plaza Cuartel, which has a rebuilt World War II garrison. Your guide will then take you to Crocodile Farm. You'll go to Mitra's Ranch after your visit to the animal conservation facility. This park is located on a hilltop and offers a spectacular view of the city below. Finally, you will walk along the Puerto Princesa Baywalk before heading back to your hotel.
Read more
Day 13
Philippine Airlines aircraft as seen from NAIA

Day 13 - Day 13: Departure to Manila

The 13th day marks the end of your vacation across the Philippines. From your hotel in Sabang, a guide will transport you to the Puerto Princesa International Airport. You will then board a plane that will take you back to Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila City.
Read more

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.

Read more

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.

Similar tours

Link to appstore phone
Install the Philippines’ biggest travel app

Download the Philippines’ biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add the Philippines’ biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.