18-Day Scenic Countryside, Islands & Historical Tour to Ilocos, Palawan, Cebu & Bohol from Manila

On the second day of your vacation, you will board a plane to Laoag Airport from Manila. Your private van will fetch you and take you to your Laoag accommodation.

Laoag City is known as the provincial capital of Ilocos Norte. Also named as the Sunshine City, Laoag derived its name from an Ilocano word, “Lawag” which means bright and light. The city boasts beautifully preserved architecture as seen in its iconic landmarks.

Your first stop in Laoag is St. Williams Cathedral. You can find the Sinking Bell Tower across the cathedral. From the name itself, the bell tower sinks at least an inch into the ground. Afterward, you will visit Museo Ilocos Norte to see historical artifacts and heirlooms.

Another notable landmark in Ilocos is the 19th-century Tobacco Monopoly Monument, which stands right in the middle of Aurora’s Park. You will also head to the Malacanang of the North, the grand presidential museum for former President Marcos.

Your museum-hopping escapade continues in Batac town. You will visit Marcos Museum to see the cenotaph of the late President Marcos. Lastly, you will browse through the Luna brothers’ notable works at the place built for them, Juan and Antonio Luna Museum.

On Day 3, you will leave early from your Laoag hotel to visit the nearby towns of Burgos and Pagudpud. Your first stop is at Cape Bojeador Lighthouse. It stands majestically on top of a hill overlooking the West Philippine Sea.

Your next destination is Bangui Bay. Bangui Windmills majestically stands at its majestic coast, where you can find a wind farm with 20 giant turbines overlooking the sea. Then, you will pass by Pagudpud’s scenic coastal bridge, known as the Patapat Viaduct. Up next is Agua Grande, where you can dip your toes into a cold stream that flows to Pasaleng Bay.

Your 5th destination is Paraiso ni Anton. Beside the grotto, you can find water that is believed to miraculously heal the sick. Then, you will witness the Kapurpurawan Rock Formation, a stunning rock attraction off the coast of Burgos, Ilocos Norte.

Your trip to Ilocos won’t be complete without buying local treats. Before leaving, you can pass by Pasuquin Salt Stand to purchase the best-tasting salt-preserved food in town. Afterward, you may opt to book an add-on 4x4 ride for 4 pax to La Paz Sand Dunes, an 85 square kilometer coastal beach and desert in Ilocos Norte.

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage City of Vigan on the 4th day of your vacation. You will leave early, and your van will take you to your first stop, the National Museum Ilocos Regional Complex.

You will spend your jam-packed day browsing through historical artifacts. Have a glimpse of the region’s culture and heritage while marveling at the museum. Then, you will proceed to Bantay Church and Bell Tower, where you will witness a 360-view of the Bantay district and a portion of the nearby province of Abra.

Up next is Syquia Mansion Museum, a 19-century stone mansion featuring symbolic heirlooms of the Syquia family. Then, you will head to Pagburnayan Jar Factory to learn traditional pottery making. Afterward, you will visit Crisologo Museum to see the antique furniture and belongings of Congressman Floro S. Crisologo and his family.

Your Vigan tour will not be complete without strolling on the iconic Calle Crisologo. It showcases the beautifully preserved architecture of various ancestral houses and structures. Then, you will pay a short visit to St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral. Right across the church is Plaza Salcedo. Finally, you will explore Baluarte mini zoo to check out exotic animals and life-size dinosaur statues.

On the 5th day of your fun-filled vacation, your private van will fetch you early from your hotel in Vigan. To reach the rustic town of Sagada, you will drive along Halsema Highway, one of the highest roads in the Philippines.

Your first stop is at Sugong Cave. It has an underground river with water coming from Bokong Falls. The same source of water also irrigates the breathtaking Kapay-aw Rice Terraces. Afterward, you will go trekking to Echo Valley. You will traverse the path leading to the famous hanging coffins, which serve as part of the burial traditions in Mountain Province.

Known as a perfect spelunking spot, Sagada boasts more than 60 caves. The largest among them is Sumaguing Cave, which features ancient stalactites and stalagmites. There are also natural pools and streams inside the cave. Prepare to get wet during your cave exploration.

After your cave adventure, you will visit Bontoc Tribal Museum. You will see vast artifact collections such as traditional costumes, hunting weapons, and farming tools. Here, you will get a glimpse of the people’s culture and traditions in Mountain Province.

At the end of your tour, your van will take you to your hotel in Sagada.

On Day 6, you will head over to the scenic province of Banaue, home to amphitheater-like UNESCO World Heritage rice terraces.

Your first destination is the town of Batad. You will visit one of the earliest-made rice terraces, The Banaue Rice Terraces. These breathtaking handmade terraces are a priceless contribution of Ifugao ancestors, which dates back to over 2,000 years ago.

If you want to capture the best view of the terraces, you can go up the Batad Banaue Viewpoint. You also have the option to trade Batad Banaue Viewpoint to visit the Tappiya Waterfall. After a long journey, you can reward yourself by taking a refreshing dip into its cold waters.

Up next is Banga-an Village, a laid-back village consisting of cogon-made houses with a ground floor for domesticated animals. This small community shelters around 30 families. Livestock farming is one of their main sources of livelihood. Appreciate and respect the villagers’ customs and traditions as you immerse yourself in their community.

After your village tour, you will visit Banaue Museum. This two-story ethnic museum exhibits the life of Ifugao tribes through vintage photographs. Apart from portraits, it also showcases treasured jewelry, traditional headdress, weaponry, and Igorot artifacts.

The seventh leg of your vacation continues at the Summer Capital of the Philippines or the City of Pines, Baguio. Many travelers flock to this famous spot up north to unwind and enjoy the cool breeze.

Your first stop is at Ifugao Museum, featuring historical artifacts depicting Ifugao’s ancient traditions. For your second destination, you will visit the Surrender Site of General Yamashita, a historic site to commemorate Yamashita’s act of surrendering during World War II.

Up next is the Philippine Military Academy, a premier institution for aspiring military officers in the country. Then, you will head to Fort De Pilar, which occupies 373 hectares of land. Afterward, you can strike a pose behind the grand ornamental ironwork gate as your backdrop at The Mansion.

You will also explore Camp John Hay, a former military base that turned into a famous leisure spot. Head next to Mines View Park and witness a breathtaking view of the rolling mountain ranges from afar. Then, you can go horseback riding at Wright Park and stroll along the flower gardens in Centennial Park.

Finally, you will drop by the Good Shepherd Convent to purchase local treats, including the famous ube jam or purple yam.

On Day 8, your eco-adventure continues in the Benguet province. From Baguio, your van will drive you to your first destination, the 79-hectare La Trinidad Strawberry Farm. Back in the 19th century, Spaniards brought strawberries to La Trinidad. At present, the farm has been producing about 1,775 metric tons of strawberries per harvest.

Your second stop is at Atok Sakura Flowers, which features around 30 beautiful cherry blossom trees. The cherry blossom seedlings were a gift to the municipality of Atok from the Japanese government.

For your third destination, you will marvel at a majestic flower carpet in Northern Blossom Flower Farm. This three-hectare flower plantation cultivates snapdragons, Peruvian lilies, and other exotic blooms that came from Japan. Behind the lovely flower fields majestically stand the rolling mountain ranges of Mt. Timbak and Mt. Pulag.

Before leaving Atok, you will drop by the 2nd Highest Point along Halsema Highway. Here, you can witness the breathtaking view of the nearby mountains. You will see Mt. Timbak, one of the highest mountains in Luzon. Then, you will pass by the Spanish Trail. You will be rewarded with a panoramic view of the surrounding mountain ranges at the end of the trail.

Prepare to get the adrenaline rushing through your body while riding a 4x4 vehicle on the 9th day of your vacation. Your destination is Mt. Pinatubo’s crater lake. This active stratovolcano is situated between Tarlac, Pampanga, and Zambales.

In 1991, Mt. Pinatubo had a massive eruption that destroyed hundreds of houses, buildings, and structures. It is the world’s largest volcanic eruption in the past 100 years. Apart from the lahar flow reaching Pampanga households, the destructive mudflow also washed out the Clark Air Base at the foot of Zambales mountains.

To get there, you have to reach the base camp in Tarlac’s Barangay Sta. Juliana by riding a van. Upon arrival, you will switch to a 4x4 vehicle. Due to previous eruptions, the terrain has been filled with lahar. You will experience a rough and bumpy ride while passing by challenging terrain and.

Before you proceed, you have to wear proper hiking gear to ensure your safety and protection. The 4x4 jeep will be traversing through the Crow Valley. Once you’ve arrived, you will get off the vehicle to go on trekking toward the mountain’s deck. By the end of your tour, you will witness Mt. Pinatubo’s majestic crater lake.

On Day 10, you will explore the countryside attractions in Bohol. From Manila, you will board a direct flight heading to Panglao International Airport. Your van will take you to your accommodation in Panglao.

Your first destination is the Corella Tarsier Sanctuary, a wildlife relief sanctuary that is home to Tarsiers, one of the smallest primates. Make sure to turn off the flash of your cameras because it might irritate tarsiers since they’re highly sensitive to light.

After your sightseeing escapade at the tarsier sanctuary, you will have a relaxing cruise along the blue-green waters of the Loboc River. Appreciate the beauty of the river while enjoying your mouthwatering lunch aboard the floating restaurant. Then, you will marvel at Baclayon Church, a century-old church deemed as a National Cultural Treasure.

Your countryside tour continues in Bilar town. First, you will drop by Bohol’s first butterfly breeding and conservation site, the Butterfly Conservatory. Your second stop is Bilar Forest, a 2km-long mahogany forest.

Finally, you will visit the famous Chocolate Hills, a stunning geological formation having more than 1,000 hills. The vegetation becomes dry in summer, making it have a chocolate-like color. It will turn greenish-like during the rainy season.

On the 11th day of your fun-filled vacation, your Bohol adventure continues in Pamilacan Island. From your jump-off point in Panglao, you will take a 16km-long boat ride to reach the heart of the Bohol sea, where the Pamilacan Island sits calmly.

Having only a thousand residents, Pamilacan Island is home to flourishing marine biodiversity. Back in the 90s, the locals relied on whale and manta ray hunting for their livelihood. When the government banned this illegal practice, they resorted to promoting local tourism on the island.

As you traverse the majestic seascape, you will see occasional sightings of whales and dolphins that may pop out of the water on your way to the island. Once you get there, you can go snorkeling or diving into the rich underwater sanctuaries.

Known as a world-class dive spot in Bohol, Pamilacan Island shelters different marine species, including bucket sponges, moray eels, and sea snakes. You can even swim with sea turtles.

After discovering what’s underneath the seascape, you can lounge on the white sand. Right across the coast, you can find a 300-year-old watchtower. During the Spanish era, this tower used to be a place where Spaniards watched out for pirates.

On Day 12, you will head to Cebu City via ferry and van transfer. Upon arrival, your van will take you to your hotel in Mandaue City. Your Cebu City tour starts at Taoist Temple, which stands atop a hill. It showcases Chinese-inspired architecture with a replica of the Great Wall of China and dragon statues. You can also find a souvenir shop within its premises.

Up next, you will explore downtown Cebu. Your first stop is at Basilica Minore Del Santo Nino, the country’s oldest Roman Catholic church. Since 1565, it has undergone renovations until 1740. Magellan’s Cross is only a few meters away from the church. This notable landmark commemorates Ferdinand Magellan’s exploration in 1521.

To learn more about Cebu’s colorful history, you can visit the Heritage of Cebu Monument. Here, you can find relevant symbols like the Spanish galleon. It also depicts the historical Battle of Mactan and well-known figures like Sergio Osmena, the 4th President of the country.

Then, you will visit the 17th-century Chinese settlement known as Yap-San Diego Ancestral House. Afterward, seek serenity and tranquility at the Temple of Leah. Your last stop is at Cebu’s own Little Amsterdam, the Sirao Flower Farm.

On your 13th day, you will leave Cebu City to take a heart-pounding adventure to Kawasan Falls in Badian, Cebu. You will take an early departure from your hotel in Mandaue City to go canyoneering at the enchanting three-tiered falls. You will pass through slippery rocks and sharp edges to reach the beautiful gorges and river canyons of the Badian River.

A majestic view of the cascading Kawasan Falls awaits you at the end of your canyoneering trail. You will jump as high as 30 feet to plunge into the clear emerald-blue waters. There are also natural pools and lagoons surrounding the falls. Afterward, you will head over to the beautiful coastal town of Moalboal.

With over 20 marine sanctuaries, Moalboal is a world-class diving spot for travelers who like to practice their open water diving skills. Witness the famous sardine run at Pescador Island, which is near Panagsama Beach. You will swim with schools of sardines congregating together perfectly.

For your next stop, you will dive into the pristine seascape of Turtle Island. You will swim with sea turtles and different aquatic creatures. After your canyoneering and diving adventure, you will head back to your hotel in Mandaue City.

On Day 14, you will board a plane to Puerto Princesa International Airport. Upon arrival, your van will take you to your accommodation. Afterward, you will take a short boat ride to reach the breathtaking islands dotting the pristine seascape of Honda Bay.

Local and international travelers flock to Palawan because of its world-class beaches and National Heritage attractions. On your trip to Puerto Princesa, you will go on an island-hopping tour to Honda Bay.

Your first stop is at Starfish Island. As the name implies, the island is home to a wide variety of starfishes, including the perfectly symmetrical five-armed orange starfish. You can also find other marine species, including pufferfishes and yellowtail snappers.

Then, you will visit the boomerang-shaped Cowrie Island. It is the largest among all of the islands in Honda Bay. You can go snorkeling or banana boat riding across its vast seascape. After trying out some water activities, you can rest on the cabanas and huts on the beach.

For your last destination, you will stroll on Luli Island’s powdery white sandbar. The sandbar submerges at low tide and reappears again during high tide. You can also sit on the floating hammocks throughout the bay.

On your 15th day, you will cruise along the famous UNESCO World Heritage Puerto Princesa Underground River. From Sabang Boat Terminal, you will ride a boat to Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park.

The 8km-long underground river is one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature that sprawls over 22,000 hectares. It boasts stunning limestone cliffs, natural rock formations, and stunning cave systems.

You will proceed to the city proper after the underground river cruise. Your first stop is at Baker’s Hill, where you can purchase some baked goodies and local pastries. Then, you will head to Plaza Cuartel. It is a former Spanish garrison and penal colony that has become a leisure park.

Your next destination is Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center, research center and breeding facility. Here, you can see crocodiles and even get a chance to feed them. Afterward, you will proceed to your last sightseeing destinations, Mitra’s Ranch and Puerto Princesa Baywalk.

At Mitra’s Ranch, you can capture a panoramic view of the city from afar. It is a hilltop park that is one of the city’s highest points. Then, you will cap off your day by watching the sunset at Puerto Princesa Baywalk.

On Day 16, you will go island-hopping to the pristine islands of Port Barton in San Vicente, Palawan. Port Barton is also often positively compared with El Nido because of its powdery white-sand beaches and crystal clear waters. It is a secluded tropical paradise perfect for travelers seeking a quick escape away from the crowds.

Your first stop is Inaladelan Resort, a famous glamping resort that sits on a 12-hectare private island. It was previously known as German Island until the locals decided to rename it after Inaladelan, which means motherland.

Aside from glamping tents available at the resort, there are also sports facilities on-site. You can kayak, play beach volleyball, or set up a picnic by the beach.

Every January, the turtle hatching season happens in Port Barton. Guests can also take part in this environmental activity. You can guide baby turtles to take their first steps toward the ocean. Your next stop is Luli Sandbar, a piece of powdery white sand that appears during high tide.

Afterward, you can still drop by the turtle snorkeling site to go swimming with sea turtles. You can also explore around the fish snorkeling site to witness different species of colorful fishes.

The last leg of your trip will take place in the majestic islands of El Nido. You will go island-hopping to explore the postcard-worthy beaches and lagoons dotting Bacuit Bay.

First, you will take a short boat ride to Big Lagoon. To enter the lagoon, you need to pass through a steep and narrow entrance. Upon entering, you will witness a jaw-dropping landscape of towering limestone formations.

Next, you will visit another pristine spot in El Nido, the Miniloc Island. It is a go-to destination for many divers because of its bountiful and magnificent marine sanctuaries. Along the pristine beachscape, you will find an evergreen forest.

Up next is the Secret Lagoon. Compared to the Big Lagoon, it has a smaller entrance. Outside Secret Lagoon lies a beautiful and unspoiled beach. Your next stop is Seven Commandos Beach, a palm-fringed beach with tall coconut trees and lush mountains.

Lastly, you will go snorkeling around the beautiful and impressive coral gardens at Shimizu Island. It is also comparable to other islands that you’ve previously visited. Here, you can strike a dramatic pose behind stunning rock formations and limestone cliffs. You can also wear your snorkel gears to discover its underwater wonders.

It’s time to leave Palawan on the last day of your 18-day vacation. Expect your private van service to pick you up from your hotel in Lio Properties. Then, you will board a direct flight to Ninoy Aquino International Airport. You will head back to where you started, Manila.