18-Day Scenic Countryside, Islands, Heritage Tour to North Luzon, Cebu & Puerto Princesa from Manila
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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 scenic countryside, islands, and heritage attractions of the Philippines with this 18-day package. From Manila, you will explore the historic landmarks of North Luzon, the beaches of Cebu, and the islands of Puerto Princesa. Your accommodations, daily breakfast, transfers, entrance fees, and the service of guides will already be pre-arranged for your convenience.
After arriving in Manila, you will tour the walled district of Intramuros and visit several of its Spanish-era attractions. You will then fly to North Luzon, particularly in the Ilocos, for a trip to Malacanang of the North, Marcos Museum, and Bangui Windmills in Ilocos Norte. From there, you will drive to Vigan and walk along the cobblestone street of Calle Crisologo before heading south to Sagada. Here, you will go on a spelunking tour of Sumaguing Cave.
Apart from the cave, you will also visit the Banaue Museum in Banaue, Camp John Hay and Mines View Park in Baguio, and Strawberry Farm in Benguet before leaving the highlands of Luzon. From there, you will go hiking to see Mt. Pinatubo's famous crater lake in Tarlac.
After enjoying Luzon, you will fly south and visit Bohol. Here, your guide will bring you on a tour of the province's countryside. You will see several attractions like Tarsier Sanctuary and Chocolate Hills. You will continue your tour to Dumaguete next to visit Silliman University and Apo Island.
Following your land adventures, you will venture to Cebu for a trip to the Kawasan Falls. You will then cap off your journey with a visit to Puerto Princesa, where you will find Honda Bay and the Underground River.
Spend 18 days in the Philippines traveling to Manila, Ilocos, Sagada, Banaue, Benguet, Tarlac, Bohol, Dumaguete, Cebu, and Puerto Princesa with this tour 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 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 15 - Bohol, Dumaguete and Cebu Tour (Central Visayas)
Day 16 to 17 - Puerto Princesa 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 and Historical Tour
Daily itinerary
Day 1
Day 1 - Day 1: Intramuros Tour
Your tour guide will meet you when you arrive at Ninoy Aquino International Airport. They will then transport you to your hotel along Manila or Roxas Boulevard before escorting you to Intramuros. Also known as the walled city, Intramuros has been a National Historical Landmark since 1951 and features many Spanish-era attractions. One of these is Fort Santiago, a Hispanic stone fortress that served as the jail for national hero Jose Rizal from 1593 until his execution in 1896.
You'll walk a short distance from the fort to Plaza Roma, the heart of the walled district. Relax and enjoy the view before visiting Bahay Tsinoy. This museum features a collection of Chinese exhibits that will give you a sense of the Chinese contributions to the country.
You will go to Casa Manila next. This ancestral house depicts the lifestyle of the locals during the Spanish Colonial Era. Then you will go on a stroll through San Diego Gardens and the Baluarte De San Diego. To complete your tour, you'll stop by San Agustin Church and Museum, where the country's first governor-general is buried, and the Manila Cathedral, the episcopal seat of the Archbishop of Manila.
Read moreDay 2
Day 2 - Day 2: Laoag Tour
You will then travel to Laoag City. After checking out of your hotel, you will fly from Ninoy Aquino International Airport to Laoag International Airport. You will then visit St. William's Cathedral, originally a wooden chapel that was rebuilt in 1612. The Sinking Bell Tower is also just a short walk away from the church. Its name comes from the fact that it sinks an inch every year due to the sandy ground it stands on.
Following that, you'll go to Museo Ilocos Norte to learn more about the region's rich culture and heritage. You will also head to Aurora Park that houses the Tobacco Monopoly Monument, a significant architectural landmark from the nineteenth century.
After Laoag City, you'll travel to Paoay to see some of the town's most famous sights. The Malacanang of the North, the former residence of late president Ferdinand Marcos, will be your first stop. After that, your guide will take you to Paoay Church, which is known for its distinctive architecture and is one of the country's Baroque churches. You will also pay a visit to the Marcos Museum, also known as the Ferdinand E. Marcos Presidential Center, where you will find memorabilia of the late president Marcos.
Read moreDay 3
Day 3 - Day 3: Pagudpud Tour
On the third day, you begin your adventure with a visit to the Cape Bojeador Lighthouse. This lighthouse, located in the small town of Burgos, is still operational today but was built during the Spanish Colonial period. You will then head to the famous Bangui Windmills, which are 20 70-meter-tall wind turbines. They form a continuous line along a nine-kilometer stretch of the Bangui Bay shoreline.
From there, you will proceed to the Patapat Viaduct, a long bridge that ties the Ilocos Region and Cagayan Valley. Your next destination will be the Agua Grande, a picnic park with water that runs down to Pasaleng Bay. Close to the Agua Grande is Paraiso ni Anton, where you can find a grotto and a stream of cold water said to have healing properties.
After that, you will pose for some photos at the Kapurpurawan Rock Formation before ending your tour at the Pasuquin Salt Stand to buy salt-preserved goods. If you're feeling adventurous, you can include a 4x4 ride at the La Paz Sand Dunes in your itinerary. You can go on an adrenaline-pumping adventure through an 85-square-kilometer coastal beach desert in Ilocos Norte, passing by small and steep hills.
Read moreDay 4
Day 4 - Day 4: Vigan Tour
The highlights of your fourth day will be the attractions of Vigan and its neighboring town, Bantay. From your hotel, you will head to the Ilocos Sur National Museum Complex, where you will find various artifacts celebrating the region's history and heritage. Afterward, you will make your way to Bantay to see the Bantay Church and Bell Tower. The bell tower, which stands on a hill, served as a watchtower in the past.
The 19th-century Syquia Mansion Museum's stunning architecture, which houses restored furniture, will steal your breath away when you arrive here. You will then see the beautifully handcrafted jars and hear about the pottery industry at Pagburnayan Jar Factory. You'll also go to the Crisologo Museum, housed in the Crisologo political dynasty's ancestral home. From there, you will walk along the cobblestone streets of Calle Crisologo.
The next stop on your itinerary is the St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral, also known as Vigan Cathedral. The Earthquake Baroque is now part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Baluarte, a zoological park where you will interact with a number of species, will bring your journey to an end. You will then check in at your hotel in Calle Crisologo.
Read moreDay 5
Day 5 - Day 5: Sagada Tour
On day 5, you will depart early in the morning from Vigan and head to Sagada in the Cordillera Mountains. This rural town houses around 60 caves, one of which is Sugong Cave. This attraction is located just outside of Sagada's town center and is known for the coffins hanging from the calcareous cliffs.
From the tunnel, you will pass by the stunning view of Echo Valley, a gorge surrounded by limestone mountains and dense woods. You will take a quick break here to enjoy the scenery before prepping your outdoor gear and visiting Sumaguing Cave.
Sumaguing, also known as the Big Cave, sits about an hour's walk from Sagada City Hall. You will go on a two-hour tour into its rugged tunnel and see the multitude of rock formations lining the insides of the cave.
After exploring Sumaguing Cave, your guide will bring you to the Bontoc Tribal Museum before returning to your downtown hotel. This museum, which was structured in a way that resembles an Igorot house, depicts the history of the Ifugao people and houses several related photos and artifacts. There is also a reconstruction of an Ifugao village built outside of the building.
Read moreDay 6
Day 6 - Day 6: Banaue Tour
You will then head south from Sagada to Banaue, a town known for its breathtaking rice terraces. The amphitheater-like rice terraces in the village of Batad are one of the popular tourist attractions in Banaue. Apart from the terraces, you will also see several paddy fields in the lowlands.
After taking lots of photos of this creative farming system, you will then take a 30-minute hike to Batad Banaue Viewpoint to get a better view of the terraces. You can rest here for a while and take in the beauty of the surroundings.
If you prefer not to stop by the viewpoint, you can embark on a trek to Tappiya Waterfall. This waterfall is nestled beyond the paddy fields of Batad and features a refreshing ambiance, perfect for resting. If you want something more soothing, however, you can go to Banga-an Village and learn about the rural life of the locals here.
You will then finish your tour at the Banaue Museum after visiting your second spot. Here, you'll learn about the tribes of the region. There is also a portion of the museum dedicated to the capture of General Tomoyuki Yamashita, the Imperial Army general who led all Japanese troops in the Philippines during World War II.
Read moreDay 7
Day 7 - Day 7: Baguio Tour
Before reaching Baguio City after your Banaue adventure, you will first stop in the town of Kiangan. In the Ifugao Museum, you will be able to see exhibits that celebrate the culture and customs of the Ifugao people of the northern Philippines. You will also visit General Yamashita's surrender site in this area, in addition to the museum.
When you reach Baguio, you will then visit the Philippine Military Academy. Here, you can watch the Filipino cadets' training. Antique tanks and other ancient war arms are also on display on the campus grounds.
After that, you'll see The Mansion, the Philippine President's official summer residence. It is said that its gates resemble London's Buckingham Palace gates. While visitors usually are not permitted inside, you can still take photographs in front of the gates. Camp John Hay, a former US military rest and recreation spot, will be your next stop. It is an entertainment complex that has restaurants, a shopping mall, and a conference center.
Following your visit to the multi-purpose attraction, you will visit Mines View Park, Wright Park, and Centennial Park. You will also drop by the Good Shepherd Convent for some souvenir shopping before returning to your hotel.
Read moreDay 8
Day 8 - Day 8: Benguet Tour
Your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Baguio and take you to the other towns in the province of Benguet, the first being La Trinidad. This rustic landlocked town is home to the famous Strawberry Farm, one of the most visited destinations in the highlands. You can pick strawberries and purchase strawberry items like champagne, crinkles, and jam while you're here.
You will explore the town of Atok next, where you will find the Atok Sakura Flowers. In 2016, the Japanese government of Kochi Prefecture handed over 30 Sakura trees to Benguet as a gift for its 40-year friendship with the province. The trees were then planted in Atok, and they will be blooming soon. You will see more vibrant flowers when you visit the Northern Blossom. This two-hectare farm will undoubtedly leave you in awe with its rare flowers.
Spend a couple of minutes exploring the plantation before proceeding to the 2nd Highest Point in the Philippine highway system. This place is located 7,400 feet above sea level and is found in the Atok barangays of Cattubo and Paoay. After that, you'll go to the Spanish Trail before returning to your Baguio hotel.
Read moreDay 9
Day 9 - Day 9: Mt. Pinatubo Tour
It's finally time to make your way to Tarlac for a day hike up Mt. Pinatubo. This is a live volcano that erupted in a catastrophic eruption in 1991, regarded as the second-largest terrestrial eruption of the twentieth century. It sits about 87 kilometers from the capital of the country.
Your guide will drop you off at the Sta. Juliana Tourism Center after reaching the province. Here, you will board a 4x4 jeep and make your way through Crow Valley. Although the ride might get bumpy and dusty, the moon-like landscape will still leave you in awe. You will then dismount at the end of the trail and make your way up the volcano.
The trek typically takes between one and 1.5 hours. You will see complex lava sand patterns created by the volcano's 1991 eruption along the way. When you get to the summit, you'll be greeted by the turquoise waters of Mt. Pinatubo's Crater Lake. You will have enough time to take in the breathtaking scenery and enjoy your lunch here. You also take advantage of this opportunity to take photographs before returning to your Manila hotel for some well-deserved relaxation.
Read moreDay 10
Day 10 - Day 10: Bohol Cambuhat Tour
You will travel to the province of Bohol on the 10th day of this holiday package. After checking out of your Manila hotel, you will ride a plane to Panglao International Airport. Your tour in Bohol will center on Cambuhat, a tranquil spot in the Buenavista region. To get to Cambuhat, you will board a boat at Daet Bridge and begin your journey to the village. You will travel along the beautiful Cambuhat River, which is bordered by nipa palms and mangroves.
The Cambuhat Oyster Farm, one of their primary sources of income, is located in Cambuhat Village. At this environmentally friendly place, you can learn how locals harvest oysters. The locals will also show you how they breed and take care of the oysters. A tiny visitor's center also sits on the river's edge.
Following your visit to the oyster farm, you will dig into a hearty lunch of oysters. Locals will also entertain you with a traditional dance called the Buri dance as you dine. Following that, you will witness how locals weave goods on native looms. At the end of the day, your van will drive you back to your Panglao lodging.
Read moreDay 11
Day 11 - Day 11: Bohol Pamilacan Island Tour
The 11th day of your itinerary is dedicated to seeing more of Bohol. You'll go to Pamilican, a paradise island in the middle of the Bohol Sea. It is located some 12.5 kilometers from the mainland and is known for being home to whale sharks and dolphins. You might able to see them while on the way to the island.
Pamilacan is also home to around 2,000 people, but the locals have managed to preserve the island's natural beauty. So you will only see pristine white sand and blue seas when you dock on the beach. You will surely enjoy a great time here as there are many beach activities you can do.
You can opt to visit the aquatic world and marvel at the variety of sea species living underwater. Feel free to go diving here, as well, if you're feeling more adventurous. After your underwater activities, you will take a short trip to the 200-year-old Spanish fort on the island's northeast coast. This observatory was once used to keep an eye on Moro pirates, but it is now a National Cultural Treasure. You'll be going to your Panglao hotel for a well-deserved rest at the end of the day.
Read moreDay 12
Day 12 - Day 12: Bohol Countryside Tour
On Day 12, you will check out of your Manila hotel and fly to Panglao International Airport to begin your journey through Bohol's breathtaking countryside. The cute tarsiers of Corella Tarsier Sanctuary, situated in the town of Corella, will be your first destination. You are free to take as many pictures as you want as long as you remember to turn off your flash.
Following your introduction to these adorable primates, you will be treated to a buffet meal at a floating restaurant on the Loboc River Cruise. Throughout the trip, you will watch the locals onboard performing traditional Filipino songs and dances. When you return to land, you will go to Baclayon Church, the second-oldest stone church in the Philippines after San Agustin Church in Manila. It dates back to 1595 and has coral stone walls and pillars.
After that, your guide will take you to the Butterfly Conservatory, where a variety of colorful butterflies are preserved and kept. You will then drop by the Bilar Forest to see the mahogany trees before heading to Bohol's crown jewel, the world-famous Chocolate Hills. After taking in the beauty of the Chocolate Hills, your guide will transport you to your Panglao hotel.
Read moreDay 13
Day 13 - Day 13: Dumaguete City Tour
On Day 13, you will depart from Bohol and travel to Dumaguete, also known as the "City of the Gentle People." When you arrive, go to Silliman University Campus, a 62-hectare campus named as a National Landmark. You will then proceed to Rizal Boulevard, Dumaguete's promenade, for a walk along the beach.
The Cathedral of St. Catherine de Alexandria will be your next stop. The oldest bell tower in the Visayas, Dumaguete Campanario, sits next to this Roman Catholic church. After that, you'll visit the Dumaguete Public Market, the Provincial Capitol and Freedom Park, and the Claytown Pottery. You will also drop by Sidlakang Negros Village to buy some souvenirs.
Following your visit to the center, you'll stop for lunch at Lab-as Seafood before continuing to the Forest Camp, a mountain resort in Valencia. You will then visit the Cata-al War Museum, where you'll see Nazi German artifacts from World War II. From there, you will head to the century-old San Agustin Church made of bricks instead of coral stone blocks. Finally, you will end the tour with a visit to the Negros Oriental Arts & Heritage Center in Bacong before returning to your Dumaguete hotel for some rest.
Read moreDay 14
Day 14 - Day 14: Apo Island Tour
Your tour will begin from your Dumaguete hotel to Malatapay Boat Terminal, located about 24km away. From here, you will then sail to Apo Island aboard a boat. Apo Island has grown in popularity among local and international visitors because of being one of the best dive spots in the country. It is located at the southeast end of the island of Negros and houses 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. Here, you will go swimming and snorkeling with the turtles. You will also spot a large reef garden with a plethora of vibrant fish while underwater. 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 trek to the Apo Island Lighthouse or the Apo View Deck. Take the David's Trek, Witchy's Trail, or 600m Habagat Eco-Trail here, all of which will reward you with a panoramic view of the island of Negros and its surroundings. By the end of the day, you will return to your hotel in Dumaguete aboard a boat.
Read moreDay 15
Day 15 - Day 15: Kawasan Falls & Moalboal Sardine Run Tour
For this day, you will visit the nearby province of Cebu. The first you will see is Kawasan Falls, a 40-meter high waterfall located in the town of Badian. It's about a 1.5-kilometer climb uphill from the jump-off point, but it's well worth the effort once you see the calm natural spring waters.
From here, you'll travel to Moalboal, which is known for its many white beaches. You can take in the scenery here before jumping aboard a boat that will take you to the coast to Pescador Island. This unspoiled island is just 30 minutes from the mainland and is an excellent snorkeling destination.
After that, go swimming with sea turtles in Turtle Island before returning to the mainland and watching the famed sardine run at Panagsama Beach. When you arrive at the beach, you will attend a quick briefing on the activity and don your gear. Then you'll walk a few meters out into the sea to see millions of sardines racing in front of you.
This activity is significantly similar to that of South Africa, but unlike that, Moalboal offers this sardine run all year. This draws many international divers from all around the world. After your encounter with the sardines, you'll return to your Mandaue inn.
Read moreDay 16
Day 16 - Day 16: Puerto Princesa Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour
You will be flying from Cebu to Puerto Princesa Airport once you have checked out of your Mandaue hotel. Your guide will then meet you at the airport and drive you to Honda Bay on the province's eastern coast. There will be a boat waiting for you here to take you on your island hopping trip.
The first island on the itinerary is Starfish Island, where you will snorkel and swim to see an array of starfish and other fish. You might spot some bloating puffers and rainbow parrotfish here. After enjoying the water, you'll set out for Cowrie Island.
Cowrie gets its name from its shape, which is claimed to resemble a seashell. It is an ideal spot to dive since a barrier has been put to hold the jellyfish at bay. Apart from this, there are several restaurants on the island where you can enjoy some delicious seafood and local cuisine. If you have more energy to spare, you can also play frisbee and go banana boat riding here.
Luli Island will be the last stop on your island-hopping journey before you wrap up this adventure. Luli is most popular for its disappearing sandbars at high tide. You'll then head to the mainland and check into your hotel in Sabang after a full day at the beach.
Read moreDay 17
Day 17 - Day 17: Puerto Princesa Underground River & City Tour
On the 17th day, your guide will drive you to Sabang Wharf to board a boat that will take you to the world-famous Puerto Princesa Underground River for a water adventure. This UNESCO World Heritage Site flows under the St Paul Mountain Range. While within the cave, you can admire the jaw-dropping stalactites and stalagmites formations that dot the cavern.
You will then head back to the mainland immediately after your cruise. Once you dock, you will embark on a land adventure in Baker's Hill. They sell a range of baked goods here that you can take home. You may also opt to eat at a variety of restaurants, go to the garden, or take photos at the picture-perfect spots there.
After walking around, you'll go to the historic Plaza Cuartel, which was once a Spanish fortress. It was converted into an amusement venue and is now used as a public park. From the plaza, your guide will bring you to the Crocodile Farm, where you can see and touch living crocodiles.
You will then head to the highlands again, particularly at Mitra's Ranch. This attraction features facilities for horseback riding and ziplining and provides a panoramic view of the area. You will then relax at the city's promenade, the Puerto Princesa Baywalk, at the end of the tour.
Read moreDay 18
Day 18 - Day 18: Departure to Manila
After your Palawan adventure, you will return to Manila to end this tour. You will check out of your Sabang hotel and leave for the Puerto Princesa Airport. In about two hours, you will arrive at Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila, bringing your 18-day trip to an end.
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.
