17-Day Philippines Stunning Nature Tour to Palawan Island, Cordillera Highlands & Bohol Island

Aerial view of Miniloc Island in El Nido Palawan
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Description

Summary

Tour starts
Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
Duration
17 days
Ending place
Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
Languages:
English
Difficulty:
Easy
Minimum age:
None

Description

Discover the Philippines’ stunning islands and mountains with this 17-day vacation package. This hassle-free tour package will get you up close and personal with the unspoiled beaches of Palawan Island, the natural wonders of the Cordillera Highlands, and the scenic countryside of Bohol Island. You need not worry about accommodations, daily breakfast, transfers, entrance fees, and the service of guides, as well, since all of these are included in the package.

To start the tour, you will discover the numerous Spanish-era landmarks located in the walled district of Intramuros in Manila City. Dive deeper into the past as you visit Malacanang of the North in Ilocos Norte and Calle Crisologo in Ilocos Sur. Another must-see hotspot you will explore in northern Luzon is the Bangui Windmills in Ilocos Norte. 

From there, you will embark on a trip to the Banaue highlands, where you will find the Banaue Museum. Your guide will also bring you to Baguio City to visit The Mansion and Wright Park. Your highland adventure will not be complete without dropping by Benguet town’s Strawberry Farm to harvest some fresh berries. After exploring the highlands, you will head to Tarlac province for a day hike up Mt. Pinatubo.

You will then bid Luzon goodbye as you catch a flight to Bohol Island, home to the Tarsier Sanctuary and Chocolate Hills. You will also explore the neighboring Cebu City. Known as the country’s oldest city, Cebu offers numerous historical and interesting landmarks, including the Temple of Leah and the Sirao Flower Farm. Finally, you will end the trip with a visit to Palawan. Here, your guide will bring you to Cowrie Island and the Underground River in Puerto Princesa, Port Barton in northern Palawan, and Big Lagoon in El Nido islands. 

Witness the marvels of Manila, Ilocos, Sagada, Banaue, Benguet, Tarlac, Bohol, Cebu, and Palawan with this all-inclusive 17-day vacation tour. Check the availability by choosing a date.

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Included

16 nights accommodation (budget category)
16 days breakfast
16 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 - Bohol and Cebu Tour (Central Visayas)
Day 13 to 16 - Puerto Princesa, Port Barton and El Nido Tour (Palawan)
Day 17 - 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
Beautiful aerial view of Intramuros in Manila

Day 1 - Day 1: Intramuros Tour

Your tour will kick off with a visit to Intramuros, Manila's "Walled District." Intramuros was designated a National Historical Landmark in 1951 and had been home to roughly 5,000 inhabitants, as well as many historical landmarks. One of these intriguing sites is Fort Santiago. Built in 1593, this fort now serves as a historical park that houses mementos from national hero Jose Rizal, along with other well-preserved antiques from the Spanish Colonial Period. You will then proceed to Plaza Roma, where you can find a monument of King Charles IV of Spain. Following that, you will see two of Intramuros' most renowned museums, Bahay Tsinoy and Casa Manila. After exploring the museums, your tour guide will take you to the southwestern part of Intramuros to stroll around San Diego Gardens and the Baluarte De San Diego. This bastion is one of the earliest stone defenses in the walled area and dates back to the 16th century. Today, it is a favorite location for weddings and family celebrations. From there, you will head next to the San Agustin Church and Museum. This cathedral contains an exclusive sarcophagus for Miguel López de Legazpi, the country's first governor-general. To round up the day, visit the Manila Cathedral, noted for its Neo-Romanesque architectural style.
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Day 2
Paoay Church behind colorful sunset skies in Laoag

Day 2 - Day 2: Laoag Tour

You will board an aircraft heading for Laoag Airport after departing Manila. Your guide will then drive you to Laoag City to see the St. Williams Cathedral. Built in 1612, this cathedral is divided into two floors and has been well-known for its luxurious interiors. Close to the church is the 150-foot Sinking Bell Tower, the city's tallest historic structure and the only one that inexplicably sinks to the ground an inch every year. Following that, you will visit Museo Ilocos Norte to see an extensive collection of Ilocano, Igorot, and Itneg traditional clothing, household utensils, and ceremonial objects, among others. Your guide will then bring you to Aurora Park, where a multi-tiered obelisk was constructed in 1881. From there, you will travel to Paoay, home to the Malacanang of the North. Ferdinand Marcos and his family lived at this presidential museum during his reign. Explore the interiors of the magnificent house before heading to Paoay Church, located some 11km away. This church has been recognized as a National Cultural Treasure and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it one of the region's pride. Your Laoag adventure will come to an end with a visit to the Marcos Museum that showcases the former president's political career.
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Day 3
Tall windmills in Ilocos

Day 3 - Day 3: Pagudpud Tour

Your guide will meet you at your Laoag hotel and bring you to the town of Burgos, where you can find the Cape Bojeador Lighthouse. This Spanish Colonial-era lighthouse, perched atop Vigia de Nagpartian Hill, was first lit in March 1892 and is still operational today. You will proceed to the Bangui Windmills next. Generating power up to a total capacity of 41 MW, these turbines deliver more than 40% of Ilocos Norte's electricity via the Luzon Grid. After taking pictures with the windmills, you'll head to the Patapat Viaduct, the country's fifth-longest bridge. Your guide will then take you south to Agua Grande to experience the natural beauty of the region. From there, your next destination will be the neighboring Paraiso ni Anton, where locals claim to have discovered a healing mountain stream. Following your grotto tour, you will go to the breathtaking Kapurpurawan Rock Formation. This geological piece of art overlooks the Bangui Windmills and the sea, making it ideal for photographs. Finally, you'll make a stop at the Pasuquin Salt Stand, where residents sell freshly produced sea salt. If you wish to end the journey on a high note, add a 4x4 tour of the La Paz Sand Dunes to your itinerary before returning to your Laoag hotel.
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Day 4
Cobblestoned streets of Calle Crisologo in Vigan, Ilocos Sur

Day 4 - Day 4: Vigan Tour

After checking out of your Laoag hotel, you will travel to Vigan City and begin your day at the National Museum Ilocos Sur Complex. This museum complex houses relics and memorabilia from two significant people in Philippine history: Padre Jose Burgos, one of the three martyr priests during the Spanish occupation, and Elpidio Quirino, the Philippines' sixth president. You will continue your tour at the Bantay Church and Bell Tower. First built in 1591, the church's bell tower served as a watchtower for invading enemy forces during World War II. After exploring the cathedral, proceed to the Syquia Mansion Museum, deemed one of the city's oldest stone houses. Following your museum visit, you will go to the Pagburnayan Jar Factory to see how the local people make their pots. You may also try making your own pot while you're here. From there, you will make your way to the Crisologo Museum. Owned by former Ilocos Sur Representative Floro Crisologo, this ancestral mansion displays the antiques and other prized possessions of the Crisologos. Afterward, you will enjoy a stroll along Calle Crisologo, a cobblestone alley dotted with centuries-old Spanish homes. Following this, you will visit the St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral, part of Vigan's UNESCO World Heritage Site designation. Finally, you will end your day at Baluarte before checking into your Calle Crisologo hotel.
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Day 5
Hanging Coffins of Sagada

Day 5 - Day 5: Sagada Tour

You will leave your Vigan accommodation early in the morning and travel to Sagada town, located about 186KM away. Sagada has a subtropical highland climate with typical daily temperatures ranging from 17 to 20 degrees Celsius. Make sure to pack your coats ahead of time. When you first arrive in town, you will head to Sugong Cave, a well-known burial place. The locals hang the coffins from the limestone cliffs here instead of burying them, demonstrating a centuries-old custom that they still practice today. Afterward, you will return to the town center through Echo Valley. This area is densely forested with trees and lush greenery, making it ideal for hiking and observing the local fauna. You will travel to Sumaguing Cave next, often known as the Big Cave. Arguably one of Sagada's most visited attractions, Sumaguing Cave will provide you with an amazing spelunking trip. Inside, you'll find fascinating rock formations, as well as an ice-cold cave bath. You will then visit the Bontoc Tribal Museum after emerging from the cave. This museum houses a collection of items that represent the culture of the Ifugao people. A model of an Ifugao village may also be found behind the facility. After you've had your fill of the museum, your guide will take you to your downtown lodging.
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Day 6
Aerial view of Banaue

Day 6 - Day 6: Banaue Tour

Your guide will take you south from Sagada to Banaue highlands, famed for its distinctive rice terraces. Upon arriving at the town, you will head first to the Batad Rice Terraces in the little village of Batad. These are one of the most popular and regularly visited sights here. They are also part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Banaue and showcase a unique and complicated rice-growing system. Take some photographs here before heading to the Batad Banaue Viewpoint. This observation deck, approximately a half-hour walk from the main road, provides a unique view of the rice terraces. If you don't want to drop by the viewing area, you may go straight to Tappiya Waterfall for a quick swim. You can also opt to skip the waterfalls and head to Banga-an Village instead. This modest farming community is home to many original Ifugao houses. You will also learn about the native way of life while you are here. To round off the day, pay a visit to the Banaue Museum. Featuring two levels, this museum houses some weaponry, jewelry, traditional attire and headgear, and pictures of Banaue in the early twentieth century. You can find some books published by American anthropologist Henry Otley Beyer and gathered by his son, William, here as well.
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Day 7
View of Baguio City at Mines View Park

Day 7 - Day 7: Baguio Tour

Your guide will pick you up from your Banaue hotel and transport you to Kiangan town, where you will get the opportunity to tour the Ifugao Museum. This ethnographic museum features Ifugao relics such as bulol (wooden rice guards), archaic household items, and headhunting machetes. Additionally, you will visit General Yamashita's surrender site while in town. From there, you will proceed to Baguio City and head to the Philippine Military Academy. Take a stroll around the well-kept grounds of this institution to see the vintage tanks and other historical military equipment preserved here. Afterward, you will go to The Mansion. Located in the city's eastern section, this structure was formerly used as a summer retreat by US governors-general before being designated as the official summer house of the Philippine President. Following your tour of The Mansion, your next stop will be Camp John Hay. The US Army used this 246-hectare property as a military rest and recreation center. The site has since been transformed into a multi-purpose property with luxurious hotels, a museum, retail spaces, and a convention center. Afterward, you'll make your way to Mines View Park, where you'll see Itogon's mining settlement. You will also explore the nearby Wright Park and Centennial Park. Finally, the day will conclude in the Good Shepherd Convent, where you can purchase local delicacies like ube jam and butter pastries.
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Day 8
Northern Blossom Flower Farm in Benguet

Day 8 - Day 8: Benguet Tour

On Day 8, you will tour Baguio's surrounding communities, beginning in the Benguet highlands' La Trinidad. This landlocked town is home to the frequently visited Strawberry Farm, owned and maintained by the University of Benguet. You may pick strawberries and purchase strawberry-related items, such as wine, crinkles, and jam while visiting the farm. Following your strawberry harvesting trip, you will go to Atok, famous for its Atok Sakura Flowers. This property has around 30 Sakura trees, which were donated to Benguet in 2016 by the Kochi Prefecture in Japan. After a brief picture-taking at the park, you will visit the Northern Blossom. This property covers around two hectares and contains rows of rare and vivid flowers. You will also enjoy a view of Mt. Pulag and Mt. Timbak while here. From there, you will go to the Second Highest Point located in the Barangays of Cattubo and Paoay. This location is 7,400 feet above sea level, making it the country's second-highest spot in the highway system. Finally, your tour guide will take you to the Spanish Trail, a man-made path built during the Spanish era. At the end of the day, you will return to your Baguio City hotel.
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Day 9
Beautiful scenery of Mt. Pinatubo Crater Lake

Day 9 - Day 9: Mt. Pinatubo Tour

You will leave your hotel in Baguio and make your way to Tarlac province, where you will ascend Mt. Pinatubo. Standing at the height of 4,757 feet, this active volcano is located on the triangular boundary of Zambales, Tarlac, and Pampanga. It gained attention during a catastrophic eruption in 1991 that caused billions of pesos in damage to the country. Despite its terrible history, Mt. Pinatubo's stunning beauty continues to surprise visitors. Upon arrival in the province, you will disembark at the Sta. Juliana Tourism Center and transfer to a 4x4 vehicle. From there, your guide will drive you across Crow Valley on your route to the volcano's base. This valley is well-known for its spectacular sand cliffs and rugged, sandy landscape. After around an hour's drive, you'll arrive at the jump-off point and begin your ascent. The course is roughly 5.5KM long and may be completed in between one and two hours. Along the journey, you're likely to stumble across some lava sand formations left behind from the volcano's 1991 eruption. Once reaching the peak, you will be greeted by the turquoise waters of the crater lake. Take photos and enjoy your lunch by the lake before commencing your descent and making your way to your Manila hotel.
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Day 10
Chocolate Hills in Bohol

Day 10 - Day 10: Bohol Countryside Tour

On Day 10, you will leave Manila and fly to Bohol Island. You will then make your way to the Corella Tarsier Sanctuary, a forest area managed by the non-profit organization Philippine Tarsier Foundation. As you explore the tarsier site, feel free to take as many pictures as you like, but remember to turn off the flash to protect the big-eyed primates. After seeing the tarsier refuge, you will experience the Loboc River Cruise. A floating restaurant will transport you along the Loboc River. While the natives on board entertain you with traditional Filipino music and dance, you will also dig into a Filipino buffet lunch. When you return to the pier, you will stop for a quick prayer at Baclayon Church before heading to the Butterfly Conservatory. You may find a variety of colorful butterflies in this location. From there, you will visit the Bilar Forest, a 2KM-wide man-made mahogany forest. Your tour will come to a close with a stop at Chocolate Hills, the province's most famous attraction. It's a geological work of art that looks like Hershey's Kisses and is made up of 1,268–1,776 symmetrical hills. After posing for some photos, your guide will drop you off at your Panglao hotel.
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Day 11
Aerial view of Pamilacan Island in Bohol

Day 11 - Day 11: Pamilacan Island Tour

An off-the-beaten-path journey to Pamilacan Island will let you see more of Bohol's natural splendor. This island, located around 45 minutes from Baclayon town, serves as a whale and dolphin refuge. Sightings of marine animals such as Bryde's whales and sperm whales have been reported in the region in recent years. Apart from being home to these marine creatures, Pamilacan is inhabited by about 240 families. Fortunately, the locals know how to preserve the island's natural beauty. As you arrive at Pamilacan, you will immediately notice the island's beautiful blue seas and spotless white beaches. You are welcome to jump into the water as soon as you step off the boat. Bring your snorkeling gear as well, especially if you wish to make the most out of your day here. While exploring the island's rich underwater ecosystem, you may encounter sea turtles and a variety of fish. If you prefer a more adrenaline-pumping experience, your guide can take you to the diving regions near Pamilacan. After you've had your fill of water activities, go for a short walk to the island's 200-year-old Spanish fort. This fort, which has been recognized as a National Cultural Treasure, was built to keep an eye out for Moro pirates. You will then return to your Panglao hotel afterward.
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Day 12
Taoist temple in Cebu

Day 12 - Day 12: Cebu City Tour

You will board a ferry in Bohol bound for Cebu City, the South's Queen City. Here, you will go on a full-day city tour, starting with the Taoist Temple. This Chinese-style temple is 110 meters above sea level and may be reached by three different winding routes. Your guide will bring you to the Basilica Minore Del Santo Nino next, a Roman Catholic church built in the 16th century. The church is claimed to be built on the spot where the image of the Santo Nino de Cebu was discovered. Aside from the church, you'll visit Magellan's Cross, located only a short distance away. From there, you will go to the Cebu Heritage Monument. This set of sculptures was made by local artist Eduardo Castrillo in July 1997. You will then visit the Yap-San Diego Ancestral House, one of the country's oldest remaining residential structures. Afterward, your guide will take you to the mountains to see the Temple of Leah. The courtyard of this Roman-inspired temple offers panoramic views of Cebu City. To cap off the day, you will drop by the Sirao Flower Farm, which has fields of rare flowers, including Celosia, aster, and chrysanthemum. You will then check into your Mandaue hotel.
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Day 13
Honda Bay in Palawan

Day 13 - Day 13: Puerto Princesa Honda Bay Island-Hopping Tour

On Day 13, you will take a trip from Cebu to Palawan Island. You will then travel from the airport to Honda Bay, where your full-day island-hopping adventure will begin. After departing the mainland, your first stop will be to Starfish Island. The name of this crescent-shaped island comes from the abundance of starfish that inhabit its shores and seas. Apart from the starfish, it is also home to a diverse array of marine species, making it a great snorkeling location. You may come across several puffers and beautiful parrotfish when snorkeling here. Following that, you will head from Starfish Island to Cowrie Island. Cowrie is the most developed island in Honda Bay and is a great swimming spot. Additionally, snorkeling, jet-skiing, and banana boating equipment are readily available on this island. Apart from water sports, you may dine at one of the several eateries that line Cowrie's seashore. Luli Island will be your final stop on your island-hopping adventure. This island is well-known for its disappearing sandbars during high tide, but it also offers great snorkeling. Swim and snorkel to make the most of your time here before taking your boat back to the mainland and retiring to your Sabang hotel.
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Day 14
Cave opening of the Puerto Princesa Underground River

Day 14 - Day 14: Puerto Princesa Underground River & City Tour

From your accommodation, your guide will drive you to Sabang Wharf, where you will board a boat to the world-famous Puerto Princesa Underground River. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located on Palawan's western shore and features an 8.2KM-long underground river. While cruising the subterranean river, you will encounter century-old stalactites and stalagmites formations that will leave you speechless. After your cruise, you will return to the mainland and kick off your city tour of Puerto Princesa at Baker's Hill. You can find numerous bakeries and pizza parlors that serve delectable treats in this area. From there, you will make your way to Plaza Cuartel, a historically significant location that served as a former military base. Following your visit to the square, your guide will take you to the Crocodile Farm. This wildlife research center is similar to a zoo, except it is dedicated to caring for rare and endangered animals. Afterward, proceed to Mitra's Ranch in Sta. Monica Heights. There are several outdoor activities offered here, such as trampoline jumping, horseback riding, and ziplining. Finally, before returning to your Sabang lodging, you will stroll along the city's promenade, the Puerto Princesa Baywalk.
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Day 15
White sand beach at Port Barton Palawan

Day 15 - Day 15: Port Barton Island-Hopping Tour

From your Sabang hotel, your guide will drive you north to Port Barton, a hidden gem on Palawan's northern shore. This little town, located in the peaceful municipality of San Vicente, is famous for its pristine white sand beach. Despite having no fancy hotels and restaurants, Port Barton is still a popular location for visitors seeking off-the-beaten-path sights in the region. After arriving at the village, you may take some photos on the beach. You will then board your boat to the island of Inaladelan. This 12-hectare island, also referred to as German Island, is a popular swimming and camping location. Additionally, other activities such as beach volleyball and kayaking can be enjoyed here. Your boat will then carry you from Inaladelan to Luli Sandbar. The name of this attraction comes from the fact that it appears at low tide and vanishes at high tide. This is an excellent location for sunbathing and snorkeling. Following your visit to Luli Sandbar, you'll make your way to the Turtle Snorkeling Site, where you'll get the opportunity to interact with and swim with sea turtles. Additionally, you'll stop at the Fish and Reef Snorkeling Site to see more of Port Barton's aquatic life. From there, you'll return to the mainland and your Lio hotel.
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Day 16
Aerial view of Shimizu Island in El Nido Palawan

Day 16 - Day 16: El Nido Island-Hopping Tour

On Day 16, you will get a taste of more of Palawan as you explore the natural wonders of the El Nido islands. Your guide will pick you up at your accommodation in Lio and bring you to Bacuit Bay, where your tour boat will be waiting. After settling on board, you will cruise to the Big Lagoon, your first destination. This breathtaking spot is tucked away among limestone cliffs on Miniloc Island. Kayak here to have a better view of the area, and don't forget to take photographs against the backdrop of the karst cliffs. Following your tour of the Big Lagoon, you'll visit Miniloc Island's white-sand beach. Spend your time here sunbathing on the beach or swimming in the crystal-clear seas. From there, you'll make your way to the Secret Lagoon, a pool concealed between limestone cliffs. Your boat will then transport you to the mainland's Seven Commandos Beach. Relax on the beach's stunning white beaches or try scuba diving at one of the nearby dive spots. Finally, you'll make your way to Shimizu Island, a popular snorkeling location in Bacuit Bay. There is an abundance of marine life here, from healthy corals to magnificent fish. Following your trip, your guide will return you to your Lio accommodation.
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Day 17
Inside the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Metro Manila

Day 17 - Day 17: Departure to Manila

After your exciting Palawan tour, you can make the most out of your extra time with some last-minute souvenir shopping and picture taking. You will then head to the Puerto Princesa International Airport and board a plane bound for Ninoy Aquino International Airport. After about two hours, you will land in 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
Jacket or Umbrella (During Rainy Season)

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.

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 Protected Area Management Board (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 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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