All tours are fully customizable to your requirements

It’s More Fun in the Philippines

A spectacularly beautiful country of 7,107 tropical islands; the Philippines is a gem that has become one of the world’s greatest emerging travel destinations in recent years. The country has always been the odd man out in Asia. It is the only Christian nation on the continent, a legacy of 300 years of Spanish rule which gives the country a unique, sometimes almost Latin American flavor.

The islands of the center and south of the country are a true tropical paradise, known for their stunning beaches, coral reefs and remote jungles. An unforgettable highlight of the country is interacting with the locals - they have an infectious happiness and are very open and friendly.

ITINERARY

Day 1 - Manila

Day 2 - Old Manila City Tour

Day 3 - Drive to Banaue

Day 4 - Ifugao Rice Terraces

Day 5 - Baguio

Day 6 - Return to Manila

Day 7 - Fly to Bohol, Free Afternoon

Day 8 - Bohol Tour

Day 9 - Balicasag Island

Day 10 - Fly to Coron, Free Afternoon

Day 11 - Island Hopping Tour

Day 12 - Your Day, Your Way in Coron

Day 13 - Fly Home or Extend Your Trip

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 - Welcome to the Philippines.

Upon arrival at Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport you will be escorted by private vehicle to your centrally located luxury hotel. This evening (depending on your flight arrival time), you will visit a local restaurant for your first taste of authentic Filipino cuisine, while watching a live performance of traditional dance.

Day 2 - Old Manila City Tour

After breakfast, you’ll depart for a tour of the city and visit to historic Rizal Park, where the remains of the country’s national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, lie within the corner stone of Rizal Monument. You’ll then ride a Calesa (horse drawn carriage) within the walls of Fort Santiago, former headquarters of the military might of the Spanish, American and Japanese colonizers until the country gained full independence in 1946.

Continuing to the famous walled city of Intramuros, built as a fortress during the Spanish colonial period, you’ll visit Casa Manila to see a reconstructed Spanish colonial home of the 19th century decorated in period style with antique furniture, fixtures and art. Your tour concludes at the San Agustin Church, the oldest structure in the country dating back to 1571, before returning to your hotel for an evening to your leisure.

Day 3 - Drive to Banaue

This morning you will be escorted by private vehicle to Banaue, in the highlands of northern Luzon. It’s a long drive - about 8 hours, however it’s taken at a very leisurely pace, with your guide describing what you’re seeing along the way. The drive will give you a fascinating insight into life in the Philippines. On the way you’ll stop for lunch and to visit a traditional village where you’ll meet with tribal people for a glimpse into their lives.

Day 4 - Ifugao Rice Terraces

After breakfast you’ll meet your local guide and board Jeepney (local transport - a converted jeep) to travel to Batad Saddle Point- arguably the best of five clusters of Ifugao rice terraces collectively inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This region is known for its spectacular natural beauty and is often described as the eighth wonder of the world. You’ll then walk to Tappiya Falls. This is a relatively easy trek, that will take approximately 1.5 hours, before returning to Saddle Point for lunch at a local restaurant while you enjoy the stunning views over the lush, deep green rice terraces.

You’ll return to the hotel to freshen-up before enjoying dinner at the hotel’s restaurant.

Day 5 - Baguio

Today you will be driven by private vehicle to Baguio. It’s a very scenic 5-hour drive, again, taken at a leisurely pace with plenty of opportunities to stop for photos and refreshments. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant. Upon arrival you’ll check in to your hotel and enjoy the evening at your leisure.

Day 6 - Return to Manila

After breakfast at the hotel you’ll proceed to Mines View Park. Appropriately named for its breathtaking views of mountain ranges and Baguio's "mineral bowl" where gold, silver and other ores were once quarried. There are now numerous souvenir shops around the park offering such items as traditional woodcarvings, textiles, shell products and other handmade works. Take a short drive to The Mansion, the official residence of the Philippine President in Baguio. Continue to the Cathedral, where you’ll get a bird's eyeview of the entire town center, before heading to Burnham park, the oldest park in Baguio. After lunch, you’ll drive back to Manila, arriving early evening to check in to your hotel.

Day 7 - Fly to Bohol

This morning you will be escorted by private vehicle to Manila’s airport for your short flight to the island of Bohol. One of the most beautiful islands in the central Visayas region of the Philippines, Bohol is known for its beautiful beaches and spectacular interior, as you will discover. Upon arrival you’ll transfer to your beachfront hotel to enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.

Day 8 - Bohol Tour

Today you’ll explore the natural and cultural wonders of Bohol on a full day countryside tour. Beginning with the Blood Compact Shrine, a landmark commemorating the 1st Treaty of Friendship between the locals and European colonizers, before visiting the centuries-old Baclayon Church & Museum. Next, you’ll have a unique opportunity to view Tarsiers, the world’s smallest primate only found in their natural habitat in Bohol.

You’ll continue through the lush mahogany Man-Made Forest and the green farmlands and rice paddies in Bilar where you’ll visit a Butterfly Farm which showcases a huge variety of local species.

The highlight of the tour is the unusual cone-shaped hills known as the Chocolate Hills. From a viewing deck on top of one of these hills you’ll marvel at the strange but beautiful terrain surrounding you.

Next, you’ll drive back Loboc for a 45-minute river cruise along a nipa palm lined jungle river aboard a native style catamaran, as you enjoy a lunch of local cuisine served on board.

Next, you’ll drive back Loboc for a 45-minute river cruise along a nipa palm lined jungle river aboard a native style catamaran, as you enjoy a lunch of local cuisine served on board.

Day 9 - Balicasag Island

Full day excursion starting with a 45-minute to 1 hour ride on a motorized outrigger boat to the nearby Balicasag Island where you’ll have the opportunity to swim among colorful corals and rich marine life. Balicasag is also among the best dive sites in the country, and a SCUBA dive can be arranged for qualified divers.

Picnic lunch will be served on this tropical paradise island, with some time to relax and enjoy the tropical beauty of this island before returning to your hotel.

Day 10 - Fly to Coron, Palawan

This morning you’ll return to Bohol’s airport for your flight to Coron, at the northern tip of the island of Palawan. One of the most beautiful islands in the world, Palawan is a tropical jewel. With picture postcard perfect turquoise water, tropical islands and beaches it’s a true paradise.

Day 11 - Island Hopping Tour

You’ll start your full day eco-trip of the beautiful islands around Coron with a boat ride to neighboring Culion Island, to visit the spectacular Kayangan Lake. Accessed by climbing over a small hill, this is a stunningly beautiful lake where you can swim in warm, incredibly clear turquoise water. You’ll continue to Siete Pecados Marine Park for some amazing snorkeling before enjoying a beach picnic on a deserted island.

This afternoon you’ll visit Coral Gardens, another great swimming and snorkeling site before returning to Coron town.

Day 12 - Your Day, Your Way in Coron

Today is your day off - you’ve certainly earned it after such an incredible vacation. There’s plenty to do here in Coron. The town of Busuanga is a pleasant and friendly one where you can stroll the markets, enjoy local food at one of the many restaurants, rent a moped to explore the island’s beautiful interior, or simply enjoy the day at your hotel’s pool.

Day 13 - Fly Home or Extend Your Trip

This morning you’ll be escorted to Coron’s airport for your flight to Manila, connecting to your international flight home or to another fascinating part of Asia.

Hotels listed below are given as suggestions only to illustrate the standard of hotels used.

Manila - Makati Shangri La (5 star - Deluxe)

The Shangri La is one of Manila’s leading luxury hotels. Located in the heart of Makati, the city’s most desirable district, the hotel is within easy walking distance to some of the most high-end shopping, restaurants and entertainment in the city. The 696 rooms and suites are some of the largest, most luxurious and beautifully appointed in Manila.

Manila - Jen Manila (4 star - Luxury)

The Jen Hotel is located on Manila’s seafront Roxas Boulevard, an easy walk from Malate, the city’s main entertainment district. Rooms are modern and bright and feature contemporary furnishings and all the luxuries one would expect from a high quality hotel. Many rooms offer direct views over Manila Bay.

Banaue - Banaue Hotel (3 star - Mid range)

This hotel has been a part of the Banaue scene for many years. Set on a hill with sweeping views over the region, it’s a simple but clean and efficient hotel offering comfortable rooms and excellent dining.

Baguio - Azalea Hotel (4 star - Luxury)

The Azalea is the best hotel in Baguio. Offering modern and stylish residences, each features a separate living area and kitchen. The hotel prides itself on its high levels of service and the restaurant offers a selection of excellent Filipino and international cuisine.

Bohol - Bellevue Resort (4.5 star - Luxury/Deluxe)

Located on a private stretch of beach on the peaceful shores of Panglao Island, close to Bohol’s airport, the Bellevue is one of the leading luxury hotels on the island. A winner of the ASEAN Green Hotel Award, the hotel prides itself on sustainability, while offering high levels of service and luxury in its modern and stylish rooms and suites.

Coron - Club Paradise (5 star- Deluxe)

Located on an exclusive, private island off the coast of the island of Coron, with pristine white sand beaches and charming accommodations. Rooms and self-contained cottages are modern and beautifully furnished, offering a true tropical island experience. The hotel’s Ocean Restaurant offers gourmet locally sourced organic food from neighboring islands.

Coron - Funny Lion Inn (4 star - Luxury)

A contemporary boutique hotel close to the center of Busuanga town, the Funny Lion is set in a beautiful area overlooking a tranquil cove with stunning sunset views. Rooms are stylish and bright, furnished with comfortable beds and contemporary design.

Optional Extensions

Bangkok (3-4 days)

Thailand’s capital and one of the most exciting cities in Asia, Bangkok is a real feast for the senses. It is one of the most confounding and chaotic, yet most rewarding cities in the world to visit. From the royal core of the city and its Grand Palace to the busy Chao Phraya River slicing through it, the incredible and exquisite historical temples and monuments, to the congested streets, lined with the best street food in the world, it’s exotic and mesmerizing at every turn.

Hong Kong (3-4 days)

Hong Kong is an enigma. A city of modern, glass towers, cosmopolitan cuisine, home to one of the world’s largest financial centers, and one of the world’s most modern, efficient transport systems; it’s also home to quiet villages and idyllic beaches not far from the chaos of the city. The food here is amazing, and the views - whether from the deck of the world-famous Star Ferry crossing Victoria Harbour (the best 25 cent ticket you’ll ever buy), or from the lofty heights of Victoria Peak are simply sublime.

Singapore (3 days)

Unlike any other city, Singapore is a mix of traditional Malay, Chinese and Indian cultures, harmoniously blended with the cutting-edge, ultra-modern style of the most modern cities in the world. Immaculately clean, tidy, efficient and organized, with some of the best food offerings in the world, from simple ‘hawker’ stalls to Michelin starred restaurants, it’s a great place to spend a few days. With international non-stop flights all over the world, it’s also the most easily accessible city in south east Asia.

Fully guided, private tours are priced from:

Luxury - US$3995 per person (4 star hotels)

Deluxe - US$4395 per person (5 star hotels)

Ultra-Luxe - US$5595 per person (best available hotels, business/first class flights)

Prices are per person, based on two people sharing a double room in low season.

Hotels listed on the Hotels Tab are given as suggestions only to illustrate the standard of hotels used.

Price Includes:

All hotels as described in the itinerary
Services of our representatives while in the Philippines
Flights:
   Manila to Bohol
   Bohol to Coron
   Coron to Manila
Private transportation and private tours as described in the itinerary in air-conditioned vehicles
Sightseeing and entrance fees
Meals as described in the itinerary

Price Excludes:

International flights
Travel insurance
Meals other than those listed in the itinerary
Gratuities for guides and drivers
Sightseeing other than described in the itinerary
Additional room charges of a personal nature in hotels (eg: room service, laundry, phone calls, etc.)