18-Day Islands, Countryside & History Tour to Palawan, Bohol, Cebu & Ilocos from Manila
Likely to sell out soon
Likely to sell out soon
Description
Summary
Tour starts
Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
Duration
18 days
Ending place
Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
Languages:
English
Difficulty:
Easy
Minimum age:
None
Description
Explore the wonders of the Philippines with this 18-day vacation package that will bring you to islands, countryside, and historical attractions from Manila. You will visit the iconic landmarks of Ilocos and Cebu, the idyllic countryside of Bohol, and the underwater paradise of Palawan. This package also comes complete with accommodations, daily breakfast, transfers, entrance fees, and the service of guides.
You will arrive at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport on Day 1 and proceed to your Intramuros tour in Manila. Known as a walled district, this site houses plenty of Spanish-era attractions. You will then fly to Ilocos and visit the Malacanang of the North and the Marcos Museum, both of which tell the life story of former president Ferdinand Marcos.
You will also drop by Calle Crisologo in Vigan before visiting the Banaue Museum in Banaue and Camp John Hay and Mines View Park in Baguio. From the highlands, you will embark on a hike to Mt. Pinatubo's crater lake.
After having your fill of Luzon, you will fly to Bohol. Here, you will explore Cambuhat Village, see the underwater paradise of Pamilacan Island, experience the Loboc River Cruise, and take photos at the Chocolate Hills. You will then board a ferry to Dumaguete and visit Silliman University and Apo Island.
Another province you will visit in the Visayas is Cebu. There are numerous historical and countryside attractions found on the island. Those included in your itinerary are the Kawasan Falls, Moalboal, Temple of Leah, and Sirao Flower Farm. You will then ride a plane and cap off your tour at Palawan. You will experience an off-the-coast adventure at Honda Bay and Underground River in Puerto Princesa, Port Barton in northwestern Palawan, and Big Lagoon and Shimizu Island in El Nido.
See the beauty of Manila, Ilocos, Sagada, Banaue, Baguio, Tarlac, Bohol, Dumaguete, Cebu, and Palawan with this 18-day package. Check availability by choosing a date.
Included
17 nights accommodation (budget category)
17 days breakfast
17 lunch
All flights with 20kgs baggage allowance
Day 1 - Intramuros Tour (Manila)
Day 2 - Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur (Ilocos Region)
Day 3 to 5 - Sagada, Banaue and Baguio Tour (Cordillera Region)
Day 6 - Mt. Pinatubo Tour
Day 7 to 13 - Bohol, Dumaguete and Cebu Tour (Central Visayas)
Day 14 to 17 - Puerto Princesa, Port Barton and El Nido Tour (Palawan)
Day 18 - 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
When you arrive at Ninoy Aquino International Airport, your guide will take you to your hotel along Manila or Roxas Boulevard. You will then make your way to Intramuros, also known as the walled city. One of the iconic landmarks here is Fort Santiago, a Hispanic stone fortress built in 1593. It served as the prison for national hero Jose Rizal until his execution in 1896.
The fort is just a few meters away from Plaza Roma, considered the heart of the walled city. You can relax and take in the atmosphere here before going to Bahay Tsinoy. This museum houses several exhibits depicting the Chinese presence in the country.
Following that, you will continue your journey with a visit to Casa Manila, a museum with architecture that characterizes the life of locals during the Spanish era. Then you'll take a stroll through San Diego Gardens and Baluarte De San Diego. This bastion was built in the shape of an ace of spades and used to be a drowning chamber during the Spanish colonization. Before calling it a day, you will see religious artwork and sculptures at San Agustin Church and Museum, as well as ornate bronze carvings and stained glass windows at Manila Cathedral.
Read moreDay 2
Day 2 - Day 2: Ilocos Laoag and Vigan Tour
It's time to leave Manila and fly to Laoag in the Ilocos Region. Your first destination here will be the Malacanang of the North. This two-story museum was once the official residence of late President Ferdinand Marcos and his family. You can stroll around the mansion before exploring the nearby Paoay Lake.
From there, your guide will take you to the Paoay Church. The cathedral has a distinct Baroque style, with a three-story coral stone bell on the side. Say a short prayer here before visiting the Marcos Museum and the Juan and Antonio Luna Museum, two of the region's most significant museums.
You will then travel to Vigan, home to the Earthquake Baroque church of St. Paul's Cathedral. Another notable church in the city is Bantay Church, famous for its Neo-Gothic design. Roughly 2km south of the church is Pagburnayan, where you will learn how the locals make their pottery.
Following your tour of the pottery center, you will visit the Burgos Museum, Crisologo Museum, and National Museum to learn about Ilocos' culture. Your guide will then transport you to Baluarte for some safari experience. You'll end your day with a stroll on the streets of Calle Crisologo before returning to your hotel in Laoag.
Read moreDay 3
Day 3 - Day 3: Sagada Tour
On Day 3, you will depart from Laoag to Sagada, a small town in the region of Cordillera. This rustic place features 60 caves, with Sugong Cave being the most interesting. This cave is located near the town center, just beyond the Sagada cemetery. It has become widely popular due to the coffins hanging from the limestone cliffs.
Before you reach the cave, you will pass through Echo Valley. Here, you will enjoy the beautiful lush scenery surrounding the gorge. There are also limestone cliffs in the distance and dense vegetation around the area. After leaving the valley, you will head next to Sumaguing Cave to go spelunking.
Sumaguing, also known as the Big Cave, is located about an hour's walk from Sagada City Hall and offers a two-hour tour into its rugged tunnel. The cave's interior is scattered with various rock formations with different forms.
The Bontoc Tribal Museum will be your last stop before returning to your downtown hotel. Founded by a Belgian nun named Mother Basil Gekiere, this museum keeps and preserves artifacts and images depicting the heritage of the Ifugao people. Behind the building, there is a recreation of an Ifugao village.
Read moreDay 4
Day 4 - Day 4: Banaue Tour
You will travel south from Sagada to Banaue, known for its breathtaking rice terraces. Among the most popular spots here is the amphitheater-like rice terraces in the village of Batad. These were listed as a National Cultural Treasure of the country and part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are also a lot of paddy fields you can find in the district.
The Batad Banaue Viewpoint is an excellent place to go if you want a better view of the terraces. You will hike for about half an hour from the main road to get you to this spot. However, instead of stopping by the viewpoint, you can go straight to Tappiya Waterfall if you're looking for a bit of adventure.
On the other hand, you can also try something different with a visit to Banga-an Village. There are fewer than 30 families in this tiny town, giving you a feel of life in the rural province. You will then finish your tour at the Banaue Museum. Here, you will have the opportunity to learn about the tribes of the area.
The displays here range from tribal jewelry to warrior hunters' equipment. The museum also houses books written by anthropologist Henry Otley Beyer known as the Father of Philippine Anthropology.
Read moreDay 5
Day 5 - Day 5: Baguio Tour
On your way to Baguio City from Banaue, you will stop in the town of Kiangan for a quick break. You'll visit the Ifugao Museum here, which honors the heritage and culture of the Ifugao people of the northern Philippines. In addition to the museum, this town is home to General Yamashita's surrender site.
You will then go to Baguio to see the Philippine Military Academy. This prestigious institution trains Filipino cadets and maintains picturesque grounds complete with antique tanks and other historical military arms. After that, you'll visit The Mansion, the official summer residence of the Philippine President. Although visitors are not usually permitted inside, you can always take a selfie in front of the gates, which resemble Buckingham Palace's gates in London.
You'll then go to Camp John Hay. This former US military rest and recreation site now houses hotels, a shopping mall, and a convention center. Following that, you will visit Mines View Park that overlooks the mining town of Itogon.
Two more parks in your itinerary are Wright Park and Centennial Park, where you will enjoy more of Baguio's calming scenery. After your stroll in these parks, stop by the Good Shepherd Convent for delectable treats to take home as a souvenir before returning to your hotel.
Read moreDay 6
Day 6 - Day 6: Mt. Pinatubo Tour
After checking out of your Baguio hotel, you will head to Tarlac for a day hike up Mt. Pinatubo. This active volcano, situated about 87 kilometers from its capital, is well-known for its destructive eruption in 1991. Thousands were killed and lost their houses after the blast, making it the second-largest terrestrial eruption of the twentieth century.
Your guide will drop you off at Sta. Juliana Tourism Center, where you will board a 4x4 jeep. From the center, you will ride across the bumpy and dusty terrain of Crow Valley. Take in its moon-like landscape along the route before you dismount at the mountain's base at the end of the trail. Here, your guide will lead you up the volcano.
The trek typically requires between one and 1.5 hours. You'll see some rare lava sand formation created by the volcano's 1991 eruption along the way. The turquoise waters of Mt. Pinatubo's Crater Lake will then greet you once you've reached the top.
You will have plenty of time to relax and enjoy your lunch while taking in the peaceful surroundings. Take as many pictures as you want before starting your descent and returning to your Manila hotel for some well-deserved rest.
Read moreDay 7
Day 7 - Day 7: Bohol Cambuhat Tour
On the seventh day, you will fly to the province of Bohol. After checking out your Manila hotel, you will then catch a flight to Panglao International Airport. In Bohol, your tour will focus on Cambuhat, a serene location within the town of Buenavista. It is considered the pride of the municipality of Buenavista because of its stunning and attractive natural resources.
The jump-off point to Cambuhat Village is at Daet Bridge, where you'll transfer from your van to a paddleboat. You will go through the vast and picturesque Cambuhat River that is lined with mangroves and nipa palms.
Once you reach Cambuhat Village, you will find the Cambuhat Oyster Farm, one of the locals' primary livelihood sources. Here, you will know some information about oysters and how to harvest, process, and breed them. On the banks of the river stands a small visitor's center.
After visiting the farm, you will indulge in a hearty lunch of oysters. While dining, locals will entertain you with a traditional dance called the Buri dance. You will also see how locals make woven products using native looms afterward. By the end of the day, your van will take you directly to your accommodation in Panglao.
Read moreDay 8
Day 8 - Day 8: Bohol Pamilacan Island Tour
On Day 8, you'll get to see more of Bohol when you visit Pamilacan, a paradise-like island located off the coast of Brgy. Baclayon, Bohol. This small island sits in the middle of the Bohol Sea, about 12.5 kilometers from the mainland. Keep an eye out for whale sharks and dolphins while on the way to the island, as it is well-known to be a sanctuary for these sea creatures.
While Pamilacan Island currently has approximately 2,000 inhabitants, the locals maintain its natural beauty. In fact, the island boasts pristine white sand and blue seas for miles on end. There's plenty of time for you to swim here and sunbathe.
You can go snorkeling, as well, and see the island's underwater world peppered with bucket sponges, sea turtles, and different kinds of fish. There are diving spots here, too, in case you're into a more adrenaline-pumping experience.
You can then take a short trip to the 200-year-old Spanish fort on the island's northeast side after you've had your fill of the beach. Once used as a lookout for Moro pirates, this observatory has now been designated as a National Cultural Treasure. At the end of the day, you'll return to your Panglao hotel for some well-deserved rest.
Read moreDay 9
Day 9 - Day 9: Bohol Countryside Tour
Your guide will pick you up at Panglao and take you to the mainland to see the Corella Tarsier Sanctuary on Day 9. This forest patch has a considerable tarsier field and is located in the town of Corella. Turn off your flash before you take photos of the adorable tarsiers as they are sensitive to light.
You will then board a floating restaurant for the Loboc River Cruise. While cruising down the river's emerald streams, indulge in your sumptuous buffet lunch and enjoy the onboard performance of traditional Filipino songs and dances. You will then proceed to Baclayon Church once you get back to land. Dubbed as the country's second-oldest stone church after San Agustin Church in Manila, the church dates back to 1595 and features walls and pillars made of coral stones.
From there, you will make your way to the Butterfly Conservatory, which houses and preserves a variety of colorful butterflies. After that, you'll drop by the Bilar Forest to see the picturesque mahogany forest before heading to the world-famous Chocolate Hills. Your guide will then drop you off at your Panglao hotel at the end of the trip.
Read moreDay 10
Day 10 - Day 10: Dumaguete City Tour
It's time to move from Bohol to Dumaguete. Your tour will begin when you arrive in the province and head to the Silliman University Campus. This is the country's first Protestant-founded and American-founded higher education institution. After that, you will make your way to Dumaguete's promenade, Rizal Boulevard, for a relaxing stroll along the beach.
Your next stop will be the Cathedral of St. Catherine de Alexandria, built in 1754. The Dumaguete Campanario, the Visayas' oldest bell tower, is situated next to this Roman Catholic Church. You will also stop by the Dumaguete Public Market, the Provincial Capitol and Freedom Park, and the Claytown Pottery before buying some souvenirs at Sidlakang Negros Village.
After that, you will take a break for lunch at Lab-as Seafood. You will then continue your trip to the Forest Camp, a mountain resort in Valencia. From there, you will proceed to the Cata-al War Museum. Among the items on display here are Nazi German artifacts, unfired bullets, unexploded bombs and mortars, machine guns, uniforms, helmets, and even teeth from World War II.
Before returning to Dumaguete, you will stop in Bacong to see the century-old San Agustin Church and the Negros Oriental Arts & Heritage Center.
Read moreDay 11
Day 11 - Day 11: Apo Island Tour
Your tour will commence with a transfer to Malatapay Boat Terminal, about 24km away from your Dumaguete hotel. You will then sail to Apo Island on a boat from the beach. Apo Island has grown in popularity among local and international visitors because of being one of the best dive spots in the Philippines. It is located at the southeast end of the island of Negros and is home to a sea reserve with a variety of marine life.
When you dock on the island, your guide will bring you to the island's turtle habitat, where you will go swimming and snorkeling with the turtles. A large reef garden with a plethora of vibrant fish will also be visible here. Apart from enjoying Apo Island's underwater paradise, feel free to sunbathe on the beach and admire the coastline.
After you've had your fill of water activities, you can make your way to the Apo Island Lighthouse or the Apo View Deck. Take the David's Trek, 600m Habagat Eco-Trail, or Witchy's Trail here, all of which boast a panoramic view of the island of Negros and its surroundings. By the end of the day, you will board your boat and return to your hotel in Dumaguete.
Read moreDay 12
Day 12 - Day 12: Kawasan Falls & Moalboal Sardine Run Tour
You will take a ferry from Dumaguete to Cebu and head to the town of Badian, where Kawasan Falls is located. This 40-meter-high waterfall is about a 1.5-kilometer hike uphill from the jump-off point, but the effort will be worth it once you dip your toes in the cold natural spring waters.
Your guide will then drive you to Moalboal, blanketed with nothing but pristine white beaches. Enjoy the scenic surroundings here before boarding a boat that will take you off the coast to Pescador Island. This island is one of the excellent snorkeling locations in the province. You will also go to Turtle Point, where you will be able to swim with sea turtles.
After spending your time with the turtles, you will return to the mainland and watch the famous sardine race at Panagsama Beach. When you arrive at the beach, a guide will brief you on the activity and provide you with the necessary equipment.
You will then dive a few meters out into the sea and see the millions of sardines swimming by the area. This activity is available all year and attracts a large number of foreign divers from all over the world. After you've had your fill of the sardines, you'll return to your hotel in Argao.
Read moreDay 13
Day 13 - Day 13: Cebu City Tour
It's time to check out of your Argao hotel and head to Cebu City. Cebu, also known as the Queen City of the South, is the Philippines' oldest city. You will see several historical sites here, including the Taoist Temple. This temple serves as the center of Taoism in the province.
Following that, your guide will take you to the Basilica Minore Del Santo Nino. This Roman Catholic Church dates from the 16th century and has a facade that combines Muslim, Romanesque, and neoclassical architecture. You will also visit Magellan's Cross, which is located directly outside the chapel.
Your next stop will be the Heritage of Cebu Monument, a collection of sculptures depicting the province's major historical events. Across the street from the monument is the Yap-San Diego Ancestral Home. This wood and coral stone building was once a local residence but had been turned into a museum.
You will then travel to the mountains to see the Temple of Leah and its Roman-inspired architectural shrine. Your guide will then take you to the Sirao Flower Farm, where you will spend the rest of the day surrounded by its vibrant flowers. After that, your van will take you to your Mandaue accommodation.
Read moreDay 14
Day 14 - Day 14: Puerto Princesa Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour
You will fly from Cebu to Puerto Princesa Airport after checking out your Mandaue hotel. After landing, your tour guide will take you to Honda Bay on the province's eastern coast. A boat will be waiting for you here to take you on an island-hopping adventure.
Starfish Island will be your first stop from the beach. This island is teeming with rock starfish and a variety of other species of fish, including bloating puffers and rainbow parrotfish. You are welcome to snorkel and swim here before sailing to your next destination, Cowrie Island.
Cowrie has a shape similar to a seashell, hence its name. It is the largest island in Honda Bay and the best place for swimming. There are also restaurants on the island that serve delicious seafood and regional dishes. Apart from swimming, you can go banana boat riding and jet-skiing here, as well.
Luli Island will be the final stop on your island-hopping adventure. Luli is famous for its vanishing sandbars at high tide, but it also has a diving platform, hammocks, and a snorkeling spot. After you've had your fill of the beach, you'll head back to the mainland and check in at your Sabang hotel.
Read moreDay 15
Day 15 - Day 15: Puerto Princesa Underground River & City Tour
In the morning, your guide will drive you to Sabang Wharf, where you hop aboard a boat and head to the world-renowned Puerto Princesa Underground River. This river runs beneath the St Paul Mountain Range and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While inside, take in the breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites formations that line the cave's walls.
Following your cruise, you will return to the mainland and begin your city tour of Puerto Princesa with Baker's Hill. This bakery/theme park is perched on a hill and sells various baked goods as souvenirs. There are several restaurants, a garden, and numerous picture-perfect spots you can find here, as well.
Following Baker's Hill, you will go to the historic Plaza Cuartel. This was a Spanish garrison that Americans and Japanese took over. Today, the site is transformed into a city park. About a half-hour drive from the plaza is the Crocodile Farm. Here, you will encounter endangered wildlife before making your way to Mitra's Ranch.
Apart from offering you a panoramic view of the city, Mitra's Ranch also has some activities like horseback riding and ziplining. The last leg of the tour will end at the city's promenade, the Puerto Princesa Baywalk.
Read moreDay 16
Day 16 - Day 16: Port Barton Island Hopping Tour
On Day 16, you will explore Port Barton, a hidden gem on northern Palawan's western shore. This small village is part of the serene town of San Vicente and has a beautiful coastline. Although it lacks the luxury hotels of the more well-known El Nido, it still attracts a small number of tourists looking to experience the province's quieter side.
Some islands lie off the coast of Port Barton, which you will also explore on this day. Inaladelan, a 12-hectare island, will be your first stop from the beach. It has become a popular camping spot for visitors and is often referred to as German Island. There are also several recreational facilities available here, such as beach volleyball and kayaks.
From Inaladelan, your boat will take you to Luli Sandbar. The name of this attraction comes from the fact that it appears at low tide and disappears at high tide. It's a fantastic spot for watching the sunset or photographing starfish.
Then, your guide will take you to the Turtle Snorkeling Site, where you will be able to observe and swim with sea turtles. Following that, you'll head to the Fish and Reef Snorkeling location to see even more vibrant fish and stunning coral. You will then return to your hotel in Lio.
Read moreDay 17
Day 17 - Day 17: El Nido Island Hopping Tour
You will spend Day 17 exploring El Nido's natural wonders. Your van will take you to a terminal in Bacuit Bay, where you will board a boat to the Big Lagoon. This lagoon is tucked away between limestone cliffs. You will have to enter through a narrow and shallow passageway before reaching the pool itself.
Following that, your boat will take you to Miniloc Island. This idyllic island is known for its white-sand beaches, limestone mountains, and lush greenery. It also offers a variety of outdoor activities. Later, you'll visit the Secret Lagoon on the island. It was named as such because it is concealed behind the towering dark limestone walls. Feel free to go snorkeling and swimming in its cool waters.
You will then proceed to Seven Commandos Beach, which is located on the mainland. You can spend your time relaxing on the white sands or swimming in the clear waters. Finally, you will travel to Shimizu Island. Because of its excellent corals and marine life, it became one of the most popular snorkeling spots in Bacuit Bay. Your van will return you to your hotel in Lio at the end of the tour.
Read moreDay 18
Day 18 - Day 18: Departure to Manila
It's time to say goodbye to Palawan and return to Manila. You will check out of your hotel in Lio before departing for Puerto Princesa Airport. After less than two hours, you will arrive at Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila, bringing your 18-day tour of the country to a close.
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.
In El Nido island hopping tour mandatory environmental fee and/or user’s see is to be paid directly in cash to the service provider in El Nido, The tour itinerary is subject to change based on weather and tidal conditions. Tours will start only once operators are given permission to sail by the Local Government Unit (LGU) and the Philippine Coast Guard. Delays in start of tours or cancellation of tours affected by this is beyond the service providers’ control.
Limitation to the number of tourists, boats, kayaks and time of stay in El Nido lagoons are strictly enforced by the PAMB. Secret Beach, Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon are no longer allowed to be toured on the same day as part of the policies of the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) of El Nido.
A mandatory user fee of PHP 200 per person is collected by PAMB for every entry to the Secret Beach, Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon.
Single use-plastics are banned in El Nido island tours. Please bring reusable water bottles or tumblers. All visitors are required to bring their own trash back to the boats.
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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