13-Day Philippines Nature & Heritage Tour Package to Cordillera Mountains, Cebu Island & 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 the best natural wonders and rich heritage of the Philippines by going on this 13-day holiday package. This tour will take you to the historical sites in Manila City and the Ilocos region, the lush outdoors of Sagada town, the Banaue and Benguet highlands, Tarlac province, Dumaguete City, and Cebu City. Travel worry-free as this package already covers transportation, accommodations, daily breakfast, entrance fees, and the service of guides.

You will first arrive at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila. Your guide will then come to pick you up and take you to Intramuros. This walled district served as the financial center during the Spanish reign in the Philippines.

Afterward, you will travel to the Ilocos region to visit more heritage sites such as the Malacanang of the North in Ilocos Norte and Calle Crisologo in Ilocos Sur. You will also drop by the Bangui Windmills before continuing onto the highlands of the country. Your first stop will be Sagada, then Banaue, where you will find the Banaue Museum. Then, you will drive to Baguio City and visit Camp John Hay and Mines View Park.

You will go to Benguet next to pick some fresh berries at the La Trinidad Strawberry Farm. From there, you will make your way back south and spend a day in Tarlac. Here, you will hike up Mt. Pinatubo to see its majestic crater lake.

When you reach Manila, you will board a plane to Dumaguete for the next part of your vacation. You will then travel to Silliman University and the beautiful Apo Island. After this, you will sail to Cebu to take a dip in Kawasan Falls.

See the best cultural and tropical spots in Manila, Ilocos, Sagada, Banaue, Benguet, Tarlac, Dumaguete, and Cebu with this 13-day vacation package. Check availability by choosing a date.

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

Day 9 - Mt. Pinatubo Tour

Day 10 to 12 - Dumaguete and Cebu Tour (Central Visayas)

Day 13 - Back to Manila

All transportation to and from included activities and destinations

All environmental fees, port fees, and all other applicable taxes

Map

Attractions

Philippine Military Academy

General Yamashita Surrender Site

Ifugao Museum

Tappiya Waterfalls

Bontoc Village Museum

Syquia Mansion Museum

Pagburnayan Jar Factory

Crisologo Museum

Bantay Church Bell Tower

Rizal Boulevard

St. Catherine of Alexandria Church

Apo Island

Kawasan Falls

Calle Crisologo

Cape Bojeador Lighthouse

Malacañang of the North

Paoay Church

St. William Cathedral

St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral

Marcos Museum & Mausoleum or Balay Ti Ili

Kapurpurawan Rock Formation

Patapat Viaduct

Strawberry Farm

Centennial Park

Good Shepherd Convent

Baluarte de San Diego

Plaza Roma

Banaue Museum

Northern Blossom Flower Farm

Lab-as Seafood Restaurant

Sidlakang Negros Village

Valencia Forest Camp

San Agustin Church Dumaguete

Negros Oriental Arts & Heritage

Dumaguete Public Market

Claytown Pottery

Dumaguete Campanario

Pasuquin Salt Stand

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Activities

Culture, Arts & Historical Tours

Daily itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 - Day 1: Intramuros Tour

On Day 1, your guide will meet you at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport and transport you to your hotel in Manila City or along Roxas Boulevard. Then it's on to Intramuros. Several cultural sites were built inside this area throughout the country's Spanish period. Fort Santiago, a fortification that once functioned as a jail, is your first visit inside. After that, it's time to visit Plaza Roma. Bullfights and other events were commonly held in this public square during the Spanish era. You will then walk to Bahay Tsinoy to learn about the history of Filipino-Chinese relations. Then, you will head to Casa Manila, a museum housed in a classic Spanish home. You will then make your way through the San Diego Gardens to see the Baluarte De San Diego. Lastly, you will enter two large churches inside the district. Your first stop is the San Agustin Church and Museum. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was built in the 1600s. Next, you will drop by the Manila Cathedral. It was initially built as a small parish but was later turned into a cathedral in 1958. After walking past their halls and statues, you will return to your hotel.

Day 2

Day 2 - Day 2: Laoag Tour

After checking out of your Manila hotel, you will ride a plane to Laoag Airport. Upon landing, your guide will take you to Laoag City, home to St. Williams Cathedral. This church was built in 1612 and is known for its Italian Renaissance-style architecture. The 150-foot Sinking Bell Tower is also located just a few steps away from the church. It is the highest tower in Laoag City, and it is also the only one that is said to sink an inch every year, hence its name. After that, you'll visit Museo Ilocos Norte, which displays a collection of items representing the daily lives of the locals' ancestors. From there, you will travel to Aurora Park, where you can find the Tobacco Monopoly Monument from 1881. You will then make your way to the Malacanang of the North in Paoay. Former Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos lived here during his term. The Paoay Church will be your next stop. This church is one of the region's most famous spots and has been designated as a National Cultural Treasure and UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Marcos Museum, which is dedicated to the former president's political career, marks the end of your day.

Day 3

Scenic view of Bangui Windmills in Ilocos

Day 3 - Day 3: Pagudpud Tour

For the third day, you will make your way to the town of Burgos to visit the Cape Bojeador Lighthouse. This lighthouse was first lit in 1892 and continues to guide ships to safety. From there, you will head down to Bangui Bay, where you can find the innovative Bangui Windmills. The twenty-six wind turbines stand at 70 meters tall and provide sustainable electricity to towns in Ilocos Norte. The Patapat Viaduct, a coastal bridge connecting the Ilocos Region and the neighboring province of Cagayan Valley, will be your next stop. Afterward, your guide will drive you to Agua Grande park. This park boasts a clear stream that leads to Pasaleng Bay and is a popular spot for picnics. You will then head to Paraiso ni Anton, which contains a stream that is said to be miraculous. From there, you will go to the Kapurpurawan Rock Formation. Finally, you will make a stop at the Pasuquin Salt Stand, where you can find locals who sell fresh-made sea salt that the area is known for. Tourists looking for a more thrilling experience can also choose to go on a 4x4 ride through the La Paz Sand Dunes before returning to the hotel.

Day 4

Spanish style streets of Calle Crisologo

Day 4 - Day 4: Vigan Tour

The following day, you will depart from Laoag and drive to Vigan City. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is also home to several cultural spots, such as the National Museum Ilocos Sur Complex. Next, you will head to the Bantay Church and Bell Tower. Both structures have gone through several renovations after being damaged in World War II. Meanwhile, the belfry previously served as a watchtower during war times. You will then visit the Syquioa Mansion Museum on Quirino Boulevard, a museum that honors the sixth Philippine President and Vigan native, Elpidio Quirino. Afterward, you will drop by the Pagburnayan Jar Factory, where you can try your hand at this craft that has been an integral part of the province’s culture. Then, you’re off to Crisologo Museum. Previously the residence of former Ilocos Sur Representative Floro Crisologo, it's now a museum displaying family artifacts. You will then walk along Calle Crisologo’s cobblestone street, which is lined with classic Spanish homes. Next, you will drop by the St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral, also known as the Vigan Cathedral. Lastly, you will end your day with a trip to Baluarte before returning to your Calle Crisologo hotel.

Day 5

Hanging Coffins, one of the traditional ways of burying in Sagada

Day 5 - Day 5: Sagada Tour

You will check out of your hotel in the early morning to take a van to Sagada town. Nestled in the Cordillera Mountains, the roads leading to this rural town often have many curves so prepare for a rough ride. It also houses more than 60 caves, making it an ideal destination for spelunking. Upon your arrival, you will be escorted to your hotel in the town proper. Next, you will enter Sugong Cave. Here, you can see coffins hanging from cliffs. This burial practice has been part of the locals’ tradition for decades. From there, you will pass through the Echo Valley to head back to the town center. You will then visit the largest cave in the area called Sumaguing Cave. This cave is situated about an hour’s walk away from Sagada’s City Hall and features spacious chambers filled with rock formations. You will also find stalactites and stalagmites that have formed through time. Your last stop for the day is the Bontoc Tribal Museum, where you can learn about the culture of the native Ifugao tribe. A reconstructed traditional Ifugao village has also been built behind the center to give you a better idea of how they live.

Day 6

Majestic view of Tappiya Waterfalls in Banaue

Day 6 - Day 6: Banaue Tour

Day 6 is dedicated to a tour around the Banaue highlands. When you reach the province, you will check in to your hotel in the town proper before proceeding to your first stop: the world-famous Banaue Rice Terraces. This agricultural attraction is distinguished by its amphitheater-like formation, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Aside from being a picturesque destination, these rice terraces have been a farming system that originated centuries ago. Afterward, you will head to the Batad Banaue Viewpoint. Located about a 30-minute walk from the terraces, this viewing area provides a panoramic view of the majestic formations. However, you can switch a visit to the viewpoint with a trip to the Tappiya Waterfalls instead. Another option is to skip the falls and head straight to the Banga-an Village. This peaceful community sits below the junction to Batad and features several Ifugao cottages. Take your time to stroll through the area and learn about this traditional Filipino tribe. Finally, you will wrap up your day with a stop at the Banaue Museum. It is best known for its impressive display of ancestral items from Igorot tribes. This cultural center also tells the history of how the Japanese Imperial Army General Tomoyuki Yamashita was captured.

Day 7

Day 7 - Day 7: Baguio Tour

From Banaue, you will drive to Baguio City. First, your guide will take you to your hotel in the city proper then lead you to the town of Kiangan. Here, you will visit the Ifugao Museum, which exhibits several artifacts from the native tribe. Among them are religious statues and machetes. You will then travel to the site where General Yamashita surrendered during World War II. Following this, you will go to the Philippine Military Academy’s campus in Baguio. Antique tanks and more military gear are displayed here for visitors to see. You will then proceed to The Mansion, a 1908 summer home for US governors-general that later became the official summer retreat for Philippine Presidents. Your next destination is Camp John Hay. Previously a recreation center for US Army troops, it now serves as a leisure complex. The property spans 246 hectares and houses a hotel, shopping areas, and a convention center. From there, you will stop by the iconic Mines View Park. This viewing deck provides a scenic view of Itogon, a mining town that sits below the hill the platform is situated on. Then it’s off to Wright Park and Centennial Park for a short break before ending your day at the Good Shepherd Convent.

Day 8

Day 8 - Day 8: Benguet Tour

The eighth day will be spent in the towns near Baguio City. Your first stop will be Benguet, where you will go strawberry picking at the La Trinidad Strawberry Farm. The Benguet State University owns and manages this farm and sells strawberry products that range from wine to jam. Next, you will travel to the town of Atok to see the Atok Sakura Flowers. In this garden stands 30 cherry blossom trees that originated in Japan. The Japanese government gave them to the local officials in 2016 as gifts. Since then, they have become a popular tourist spot in the town. You will also visit the Northern Blossoms, a field that grows an array of colorful flowers. Travelers can also get a look at Mt. Pulag and Mt. Timbak from this garden. Afterward, you will travel to the second-highest point on the Philippine highway system. Aptly named the 2nd Highest Point, it stands at 7,400 feet above sea level. To end your day, you will drop by the Spanish Trail. This pathway was constructed during the Spanish colonial period, hence the name. Your guide will then take you back to your hotel after driving along this scenic road that offers a grand view of the Cordillera Mountains.

Day 9

Day 9 - Day 9: Mt. Pinatubo Tour

You will then make your way back south to reach the province of Tarlac. Day 9 will be dedicated to exploring the historic Mt. Pinatubo. This active volcano has been a top hiking spot near Manila just a few years after it erupted in 1991. Before making your way to the mountain’s base, you first have to register at the Sta. Juliana Tourism Center. Here, you will trade your van for a 4x4 vehicle that can safely take you across the rough and sandy terrain surrounding the volcano. On the way there, you will pass through Crow Valley. Upon reaching the jump-off point, you will disembark and follow the trail to the peak on your own two feet. The trail goes on for around 5.4 KM. During the journey upward, you can also find lava sand formations that date back to the 1991 explosion. Once you reach the end of the path, you will be welcomed by the crater lake’s gorgeous emerald waters. Here, you can rest and eat a hearty meal by the lake’s edge. Afterward, you will head back to the tourism center. Your guide will then take you to your new hotel along the Baywalk in Manila.

Day 10

Day 10 - Day 10: Dumaguete Tour

The next day, you will ride a ferry bound for Dumaguete City. When you dock at the local port, you will be guided to your hotel in the city before making your way to the Silliman University. This school first opened in 1901 and houses fascinating displays inside its museum. Afterward, you will walk along Rizal Boulevard. The National Hero Jose Rizal was said to frequent this street during his visits to the city, hence its name. Next, you will drop by the St. Catherine de Alexandria Cathedral. You can also find the Dumaguete Campanario, an 18th-century coral-stone tower just outside the church. Following this, you will go to the Dumaguete Public Market, where you can find delicious local produce and crafts. From there, you will proceed to the Provincial Capital and the Freedom Park. Then it’s off to the Clayton Pottery and the Sidlakang Negros Village. This cultural hub showcases artisan items and mouthwatering dishes made by the natives. Afterward, you will have lunch at the Lab-as Seafood Restaurant. You will then travel to Valencia's Forest Camp before proceeding to the Cata-al War Museum. As the day ends, you will enter the San Agustin Church and the Negros Oriental Arts & Heritage Center.

Day 11

Day 11 - Day 11: Apo Island Tour

For Day 11, you will travel to the Malatapay Boat Terminal and hop on a boat bound for Apo Island. This destination is best known for its lively aquatic ecosystem that attracts divers from all over the globe. Along with fish, swimmers can also spot groups of vibrant corals and other sea animals. When you set foot on the island, you will continue to Turtle Point. As you learn about these aquatic animals in this conservation area, you can also get the chance to swim with them. Make sure to put on the proper gear so you can get a clearer look at the turtles. Following this, you can return to the shore and unwind on its smooth sand while sunbathing. If you would rather explore than lounge on the beach, visitors can travel a little deeper into the island to reach its lighthouse and observation deck. Here, you can get a picturesque view of the whole isle. Otherwise, you can choose to hike instead. There are three tails on the island that all offer stunning views of the coastline. To cap off your island adventure, you will sail back to the mainland.

Day 12

Aerial view of the beautiful island of Moalboal in Cebu

Day 12 - Day 12: Kawasan Falls and Moalboal Sardine Run Tour

You will then depart from Dumaguete to sail to Cebu Island. When you reach the province, your guide will meet you at the port to escort you to your accommodation in Argao. After checking in, you will then head to the town of Badian to see the majestic Kawasan Falls. Visitors can also take a dip in the cascade’s natural pools, so feel free to take photos in the water before leaving. Next, you will travel to Moalboal Island, a coastal town that is close to a number of white-sand beaches. You will ride a boat at the beach and proceed to Pescador Island. Take the time to dive beneath the waves by the isle to see a variety of fishes swimming around coral gardens. Then, you will sail to Turtle Island. As its name implies, you can find these calm animals here. You can also wade into the sea to float by the turtles in their natural habitat. Next, you will return to the mainland and drive to Panagsama Beach, a common jump-off point for the famous Sardine Run. This natural event consists of millions of sardines swimming a few meters off the shore. When they group together, they appear to make walls of shimmering silver that are dense enough to block sunlight.

Day 13

Day 13 - Day 13: Departure to Manila

On the last day of your vacation, your guide will bring you to the airport in Cebu for your flight back to Manila City. Feel free to browse through the shops for souvenirs. After a few hours, you will land in Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

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.

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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13-Day Philippines Nature & Heritage Tour Package to Cordillera Mountains, Cebu Island & Dumaguete

Description

Summary

Description

Included

Map

Attractions

Activities

Daily itinerary

Day 1 - Day 1: Intramuros Tour

Day 2 - Day 2: Laoag Tour

Day 3 - Day 3: Pagudpud Tour

Day 4 - Day 4: Vigan Tour

Day 5 - Day 5: Sagada Tour

Day 6 - Day 6: Banaue Tour

Day 7 - Day 7: Baguio Tour

Day 8 - Day 8: Benguet Tour

Day 9 - Day 9: Mt. Pinatubo Tour

Day 10 - Day 10: Dumaguete Tour

Day 11 - Day 11: Apo Island Tour

Day 12 - Day 12: Kawasan Falls and Moalboal Sardine Run Tour

Day 13 - Day 13: Departure to Manila

What to bring

Good to know

Accommodation

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