16-Day Nature, Heritage & Adventure Tour to Puerto Princesa, Bohol, Dumaguete & Ilocos from Manila
Likely to sell out soon
Description
Summary
Tour starts
Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
Duration
16 days
Ending place
Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
Languages:
English
Difficulty:
Easy
Minimum age:
None
Description
Visit some of the best nature, heritage and adventure attractions in the Philippines with this 16-day vacation package. Your tour will include historical places and heritage sites in Manila and Ilocos and natural gems in Puerto Princesa, Bohol, and Dumaguete. This package will cover your entrance fees, land and sea transportations, accommodation, roundtrip flights, and service of guides.
Over the past centuries, the Philippines went through various wars and colonization. Some of the events took place inside Intramuros in Manila City. Here you will see ancient fortresses, churches, museums, and more.
Ilocos Norte also offers interesting stories at museums like Malacanang of the North and Marcos Museum. It is also home to towering Bangui Windmills and the beautiful cobblestone street called Calle Crisologo.
Your guide will also take you to Northern Luzon to visit Sumaguing Cave in Sagada, Banaue Museum in Ifugao, and some of Baguio's top attractions like Camp John Hay and Mines View Park. You will then head south toward Mt. Pinatubo, which offers a jaw-dropping view of its crater lake.
From Manila, you'll travel to Bohol. You'll see one of the world's smallest primates at Tarsier Sanctuary. The popular Chocolate Hills are also part of your tour. Meanwhile, you'll learn about the history of Silliman University in Dumaguete. You'll even spend a day on the province's Apo Island.
Then, in Cebu, you will discover more natural attractions, including Kawasan Falls and Pescador Island. You will then fly to Palawan and explore Puerto Princesa, known for Honda Bay, which has numerous islands like Star Fish Island. The 8km Underground River will also amaze you with spectacular rock formations.
Come along on this 16-day tour that will take you to the many attractions of Manila, Ilocos, Sagada, Banaue, Baguio, Tarlac, Bohol, Dumaguete, Cebu, and Puerto Princesa. Check availability by choosing a date.
Included
15 nights accommodation (budget category)
15 days breakfast
15 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 13 - Bohol, Dumaguete and Cebu Tour (Central Visayas)
Day 14 to 15 - Puerto Princesa Tour (Palawan)
Day 16 - Back to Manila
All transportation to and from included activities and destinations
All environmental fees, port fees, and all other applicable taxes
Map
Attractions
Activities
Island Hopping
Culture, Arts & Historical Tours
Daily itinerary
Day 1
Day 1 - Day 1: Intramuros Tour
Upon arriving at Ninoy Aquino International Airport, your guide will drive you to your hotel in Manila or along Roxas Boulevard. You will then head to Intramuros, a historic walled district in Manila. The location is filled with historic structures dating back to the Spanish colonial period.
You will make your way first to Fort Santiago, the oldest Hispanic fortress in the Philippines. It was erected in 1593 to protect the district from invaders. From there, you will visit Plaza Roma next. It is a public square surrounded by several buildings. From there, you will head to Bahay Tsinoy. This museum has many life-sized dioramas of Chinese goldsmiths and traders, photos, porcelain, and more.
Your next attraction is another museum called Casa Manila. Here you will learn about the lifestyle during the Spanish colonial era. Then, you will have a stroll in San Diego Gardens and stop by the Baluarte De San Diego, a 16th-century bastion.
After that, you will head to the oldest stone church in the country, the San Agustin Church and Museum. It is adorned with religious artwork and statues. Your final stop is Manila Cathedral, where you will find a large organ with 4,500 pipes created in the Netherlands.
Read moreDay 2
Day 2 - Day 2: Laoag Tour
You will explore Laoag City and the neighboring towns on your second day. After checking out of your hotel, you'll travel from Ninoy Aquino International Airport to Laoag Airport. You will then ride a van to Laoag City, where St. Williams Cathedral is situated. It houses a massive candle statue that the local Spanish is believed to have created and installed.
Near the cathedral is the Sinking Bell Tower, regarded as the tallest historic structure in the city. Your next stop is the Museo Ilocos Norte, which showcases the crafts and heritage of the residents of Ilocos Norte.
Then, your guide will bring you to Aurora Park, which is dedicated to the King Alfonso XII of Spain for ending the Tobacco Monopoly. You will proceed to the Malacanang of the North, a presidential museum that initially served as the home of the former Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos.
You will also drop by the Paoay Church. This religious structure attracts visitors with its Spanish colonial earthquake baroque architecture. Lastly, you will visit the Marcos Museum, where you'll find out about the political doings of the said former president. Your van will drive you to your Laoag hotel later on.
Read moreDay 3
Day 3 - Day 3: Pagudpud Tour
For your third day, your guide will pick you up at your accommodation in Laoag and bring you to the town of Burgos. Here stands the Cape Bojeador Lighthouse, which was constructed during Spanish colonization but continues to be operational at present.
The famous Bangui Windmills of Ilocos Norte will also be shown to you. This attraction comprises 20 towering wind turbines arranged in a single row on a shore facing Bangui Bay. From there, you'll go to Patapat Viaduct, a long bridge connecting the Ilocos Region to Cagayan Valley.
You will see Agua Grande, a picnic park with running water providing renewable and alternative power supply to the residents in Pagudpud and the nearby areas. After that, you will head to Paraiso ni Anton. It is a small grotto with a stream flowing beside it. Its waters are believed to provide healing.
Your itinerary also includes dropping by the fascinating Kapurpurawan Rock Formation and the Pasuquin Salt Stand, where you can purchase salt and salt-preserved food. By the end of the day, you have the option to travel straight to your Laoag hotel or go on an exciting 4x4 jeepney ride at Lapaz Sand Dunes.
Read moreDay 4
Day 4 - Day 4: Vigan Tour
From Laoag City, you will travel south toward the UNESCO World Heritage City of Vigan. Your accommodation will be located along the beautiful Calle Crisologo, a street lined with old Spanish buildings.
Your first stop will be the National Museum Ilocos Sur Complex, where you will learn about the important historical events in the region. Your guide will next lead you to Bantay Church and Bell Tower, which was used as a watchtower during World War II.
You will visit another museum, called Syquia Mansion Museum. It is dedicated to Elpidio Quirino, the sixth Philippine President. You'll also get to see splendid handcrafted jars and learn about old and authentic methods in pottery at the Pagburnayan Jar Factory.
At your next stop, you can browse antiques, memorabilia, and other belongings of the Crisologo family at the Crisologo Museum. You will then head to the nearby Calle Crisologo, which is deemed an Instgrammable site in Vigan.
The following attraction is the St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral, which follows a Baroque architectural design with a neo-gothic, pseudo-Romanesque, and Chinese craftsmanship. Your tour will end at Baluarte, a zoological park with no entrance fee and houses an array of animals.
Read moreDay 5
Day 5 - Day 5: Sagada Tour
On the fifth day, you will have an early departure from Vigan to Sagada, a peaceful town in the Cordillera Mountains. This rural location is known for having more than 60 caves underneath. One of these is called Sugong Cave, which will be the first stop of your tour. Lying close to the town center, this natural attraction has an underground river and is renowned for hanging coffins.
You will then embark on a trek through Echo Valley that is situated just before Sugong Cave. Limestone mountains enclose its thick green forests. In the next part of your tour, you will also be needing your outdoor equipment.
Sumaguing Cave has the biggest chamber linking all the 60 caves of Sagada, hence earning another name, the "Big Cave." Inside the place are millions of old rock formations with various shapes, such as an elephant, bear, a turtlehead, and many more.
To complete the tour, you will visit the Bontoc Tribal Museum. Here you will find traditional items of the indigenous people of the Cordillera region, generally called the Ifugao. Behind the structure is a recreation of an Ifugao village. Your van will then drive you to your Sagada hotel.
Read moreDay 6
Day 6 - Day 6: Banaue Tour
After you check out of your accommodation in Sagada, you'll make your way to the town of Banaue, which is home to many remarkable rice terraces. Your tour will kick off with a visit to the amphitheater-like rice terraces in the village of Batad. It is considered a National Cultural Treasure of the Philippines.
You can have a nicer view of the terraces at Batad Banaue Viewpoint. You will have to hike for 30 minutes to get to the place. If you prefer to see a different sight, you can go straight to Tappiya Waterfall instead of ascending to the viewpoint. You will need to go on a trek to reach the waterfall.
You also have the option to visit the serene Banga-an Village. Only less than 30 families make up this small community. You will find here typical Ifugao residences, as well as discover about their livelihood. There's also a handicraft center where you can discover Ifugao craftsmanship.
After dropping by your preferred second attraction, you will make your final stop at the Banaue Museum. This museum exhibits the many indigenous artifacts from the ancient tribes of the Igorots. Your guide will then take you to your Banaue hotel.
Read moreDay 7
Day 7 - Day 7: Baguio Tour
On Day 7, you will leave your accommodation in Banaue and travel north to the City of Pines, Baguio. Make sure to bring sweaters with you, as temperatures here seldom surpass 26 degrees Celsius.
On the way to Baguio, you will make a stopover in the town of Kiangan. You will visit the Ifugao museum, which displays the traditions and history of the Ifugao people. Next is the Surrender Site of General Yamashita, a historical spot in the town.
You will then proceed to Baguio to stop by the Philippine Military Academy. This reputable educational institution has been training aspiring military officers since 1898. The following attraction is The Mansion, the official summer house of the Philippine President.
Your van will transport you to Camp John Hay, which used to be a US military base but now has hotels, a golf course, a shopping center, and more. Afterward, you will visit some of Baguio's top parks, such as Mines View Park, Wright Park, and Centennial Park, each of which offers a unique experience and natural beauty.
Before you head to your Baguio hotel, you will drop by the Good Shepherd Convent, where all sorts of delectable goodies are sold.
Read moreDay 8
Day 8 - Day 8: Mt. Pinatubo Tour
Your eighth day will be a hike up to Mt. Pinatubo, an active volcano that made the second-largest terrestrial eruption of the 20th century. After checking out of your accommodation in Baguio, you will travel south to the Province of Tarlac.
Your van will drive you directly to Sta. Juliana Tourism Center, where 4x4 vehicles await your arrival. From there, you will cross the Crow Valley until you reach the mountain's base. Expect a bumpy and dusty ride as Mt. Pinatubo's 1991 eruption caused the terrain to become rugged and filled with lahar.
The hike to the summit normally takes one to 1.5 hours, but your efforts will pay off as soon as you reach the end of the trail. You will chance upon some unusual volcanic rocks along the way. Once you reach the peak, the volcano's Crater Lake will amaze you with its stunning beauty.
Take as many photos of this breathtaking sight as you like. You will also have enough time to take your lunch break. Before sunset, you will return to the tourism center, where your van will be waiting for you. You will then travel back to your Manila hotel.
Read moreDay 9
Day 9 - Day 9: Bohol Countryside Tour
On Day 9, you'll get to see the beauty of Bohol's countryside. You will check out of your Manila accommodation and board a plane at Ninoy Aquino International Airport. From there, you will travel to Panglao International Airport.
Your first attraction is the Corella Tarsier Sanctuary. Here you will meet the googly-eyed Bohol tarsiers that typically rest up in trees and hide behind branches. Make sure to turn off your flash before taking photos of them.
Next, you will experience traversing the Loboc River, one of the cleanest rivers in the Philippines, aboard a floating restaurant. During the Loboc River Cruise, you will savor various Filipino dishes while watching some locals perform native Filipino songs and dances.
After that, you will head to Baclayon Church. This 16th-century church is adorned with a crystal chandelier, life-size statues, an altar with carvings inlaid with gold, and a silver tabernacle.
You will then visit Bilar Town's Butterfly Conservatory that aims to increase the butterfly population and the Bilar Forest that boasts lush trees with uniform height, thickness, the spread of branches, and the design of leaves.
Your tour will conclude at the renowned Chocolate Hills, and then you will be on your way to your Panglao hotel.
Read moreDay 10
Day 10 - Day 10: Pamilacan Island Tour
Your entire day will be for the paradisiac Pamilacan Island, one of the go-to island destinations in Bohol. It is situated in the heart of the Bohol Sea, around 12.5km from the mainland. The island serves as a home to various sea creatures like dolphins and whale sharks, so you might spot some during the boat ride.
Pamilacan Island offers an array of beach activities for tourists. Go for a swim in the crystal-clear waters or sunbathe on the pristine white-sand beach to make the most of your time in the place. You can also go snorkeling as the island is abundant in sea turtles, bucket spongers, and various kinds of fish. Several diving spots dot the area, as well.
Feel free to visit the small community where only 240 families live. You can also go on a short trek to the northeast side of the island, where you will find a 200-year-old Spanish fort. It was used as a watchtower where Spaniards kept an eye out for Moro pirates.
After a fantastic day on Pamilacan Island, you will travel back to mainland Bohol via boat. You will then ride your van and return to your accommodation on Panglao Island.
Read moreDay 11
Day 11 - Day 11: Dumaguete City Tour
It's time to visit another major location in the Visayas - Dumaguete, also known as the City of Gentle People. After checking out of your Panglao hotel, you'll travel to Dumaguete via ferry. Upon your arrival, your van will take you to Silliman University. It is registered as a National Landmark and features six museums.
You will next stop by the Rizal Boulevard, a promenade stretching up to 780 meters long. Then, you'll visit St. Catherine De Alexandria, which boasts elegantly designed altarpieces and striking chandeliers. Beside it is the Visayas' oldest belfry, Dumaguete Campanario.
Your tour also includes Dumaguete Public Market, Provincial Capitol and Freedom Park, and the Claytown Pottery. You will also drop by the Sidlakang Negros Village, where you can purchase crafts, delicacies, and the arts. Afterward, you will savor sumptuous seafood at Lab-as Seafood.
You will continue your tour with a visit to a mountain resort called Valencia Forest Camp. Then, you'll proceed to the Cata-al War Museum, where you can learn more about World War II. You will make your last two stops at the San Agustin de Hippo Church and the Negros Oriental Arts and Heritage Center before heading to your Dumaguete hotel.
Read moreDay 12
Day 12 - Day 12: Apo Island Tour
Your twelfth day is dedicated to another top attraction in Dumaguete - Apo Island. You will be picked up at your Dumaguete accommodation and taken to Malatapay Boat Terminal. From there, you will sail to Apo Island via boat.
Apo Island is a small land off the coast of the town of Dauin. It is regarded as an excellent dive spot in the Philippines and the world, boasting spectacular coral gardens and rich marine life. It has become well-known not only to locals but also to tourists. Lying in the southeast end of Negros Island, the place has a sea reserve where lots of sea creatures reside.
Once you reach Apo Island, your guide will lead you to the turtle's habitat. Enjoy snorkeling around the area and swimming with the turtles. There's also a wide reef garden here, and you can encounter plenty of fish inhabiting it. Apart from exploring the underwater paradise of Apo Island, you can also take the time playing sports or strolling along the beach.
You can also visit the Apo Island Lighthouse or head to the Apo View Deck. By the end of the day, you will head back to your Dumaguete hotel.
Read moreDay 13
Day 13 - Day 13: Kawasan Falls and Moalboal Sardine Run Tour
On Day 13, you'll be touring the Province of Cebu. You will check out of your Dumaguete accommodation and travel to Cebu via ferry. Your tour will begin with a visit to Kawasan Falls, located in the town of Badian. It comprises three waterfalls, the first one being the biggest and most-visited.
Your guide will bring you to Moalboal next. It is a coastal town featuring white beaches and a healthy coral ecosystem, making it famous among divers. The town will also be the jump-off point for your trip to a few islands.
From Moalboal, you will sail to Pescador Island via boat. It will only take 30 minutes to reach the place. Surrounding the island are cobalt blue waters and gorgeous corals of different types and colors. Next, you will head to Turtle Point, which abounds in sea turtles. The site has clear water and mild current, so beginners need not worry.
The last attraction you'll visit for this day is the magnificent Sardine Run that takes place near Panagsama Beach. You'll get to see thousands or millions of sardines creating shapes as they swim together. Afterward, your van will drive you to your Mandaue hotel.
Read moreDay 14
Day 14 - Day 14: Puerto Princesa Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour
You will leave Cebu and fly to one of the world's most beautiful islands, Palawan. At Mactan-Cebu International Airport, you will take a flight to Puerto Princesa International Airport. Upon landing, your van will transport you to Honda Bay, which lies on the eastern coast of the province. Here you will hop on a boat that will take you across the sea to some of the best islands in the bay.
Your first stop will be Star Fish Island. Also known as Tabuan Island, the place is abundant in marine life and corals that sit a few meters from the shore. You can also expect to find lots of starfishes both on the beach and in the water.
Up next is Cowrie Island, which is distinguished from the other islands through its seashell-like shape. Being the biggest island in Honda Bay, it offers a number of beach activities and water sports such as jet-skiing, snorkeling, Frisbee, beach volleyball, and more.
Your tour will wrap up with a visit to Luli Island. What makes this sandbar unique is its aspect of submerging at high tide and appearing at low tide. You will then make your way to your Sabang hotel.
Read moreDay 15
Day 15 - Day 15: Puerto Princesa Underground River and City Tour
On Day 15, you'll get to see more of the best attractions in Palawan, particularly in Puerto Princesa. Your van will take you to Sabang Wharf, where you will be transferred to a boat. You will then sail to the prominent Puerto Princesa Underground River. This UNESCO World Heritage Site will leave you in awe at its unique cave systems. Various species of bats reside inside this cave.
After your underground river tour, you will proceed to Puerto Princesa City and explore its main tourist spots. The first one is the Baker's Hills, which is set on top of a hill. Multiple bakeries and pizza parlors are established on the site. You may purchase souvenirs before heading to your next stop.
At Plaza Cuartel, you will find an open-air war museum and a shrine dedicated to American prisoners of World War II. Next, you will go to the Crocodile Farm and go face to face with endangered animal species, including crocodiles.
After that, you will head to Mitra's Ranch, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of Puerto Princesa. Your final stop will be Puerto Princesa Baywalk, where you can have a quick relaxation before going to your Sabang hotel.
Read moreDay 16
Day 16 - Day 16: Departure to Manila
This marks the conclusion of your 16-day tour package. After checking out of your Sabang accommodation, you'll go to Puerto Princesa International Airport. You will board a plane that will take you back to Manila. The trip takes less than two hours and you will land at Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
Read moreWhat 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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