13 Days - Philippines Family Explorer

Welcome to the Philippines! Upon arrival at Ninoy Aquino International Airport, you’ll be met by a local representative holding a sign with your name. After a warm welcome, transfer by private vehicle to your hotel in central Manila. Depending on your flight arrival time and traffic conditions, the drive will take around 45 minutes to 1 hour, covering roughly 10 to 15km. Your guide or driver will assist with check-in and provide a brief overview of what to expect during your stay.

The rest of the day is free for you to relax and recover from your journey. Your hotel is well-equipped for families, with spacious rooms, swimming pools, and casual dining outlets. Take this time to unpack, cool down, and allow younger travellers to rest or swim. Room service or a light meal at the hotel café can be a simple and convenient dinner option after a long day of travel.

If you're arriving in the early afternoon and feel like getting out for a bit, consider a short hotel-organised car ride to a nearby shopping mall or a walkable park area, depending on your location. While today is unscheduled, it’s also an ideal time to familiarise yourself with the hotel surroundings and locate essentials such as convenience stores or ATMs.

Evening temperatures in Manila are typically warm but pleasant, making it possible to enjoy a brief outing before settling in for the night. Be sure to get a good night's sleep, as tomorrow’s guided city tour will give you a deeper look at the culture and heritage of Manila.

After breakfast at the hotel, your guide will meet you at reception for a private half-day cultural tour. The morning starts in Intramuros, the Spanish-era walled city that once housed the seat of colonial government. Walking through its gates feels like stepping back in time, with cobbled streets, horse-drawn carriages, and heritage buildings such as the Manila Cathedral and the beautifully preserved San Agustin Church.

Children often enjoy the interactive sections of Fort Santiago, where stories of Philippine heroes like José Rizal come alive. The fort’s leafy grounds and open spaces offer a chance to walk, explore, and take family photos with Manila’s skyline in the background.

From the past to the present, your tour of Manila continues with a drive to Binondo, the oldest Chinatown in the world, or a visit to the Chinese Cemetery, which is known for its extravagant tombs that resemble miniature mansions. These are surprisingly engaging for visitors of all ages and reflect the complex multicultural history of the city.

Lunch will be at a local restaurant where your guide can help you choose dishes suited to both adventurous and cautious eaters - think grilled meats, noodle dishes, and mango shakes. Filipino cuisine is diverse and often a hit with families thanks to its mild spices and generous use of rice and seafood.

Return to the hotel early afternoon for downtime. You might choose to spend the rest of the day poolside, or head to nearby attractions like the National Museum complex if the kids are up for it. Hotel staff can also suggest interactive exhibits, planetariums or parks suitable for young travellers.

In the evening, dine at your hotel or take a short ride to Bonifacio Global City for international food options and wide pedestrian spaces, ideal for a casual family night out. Manila’s evenings are lively, so if energy allows, enjoy a safe and low-key walk or tuk-tuk ride through the area.

After breakfast at your hotel, check out and meet your driver in the lobby for your transfer back to Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Your flight to Bohol typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. Upon arrival at Panglao International Airport, a representative will meet you and assist with a private transfer to your hotel. The drive to most resorts on Panglao Island or Tagbilaran takes about 30–45 minutes (approximately 20–30km), depending on traffic and hotel location.

Once checked in, take time to settle into your surroundings. Bohol offers a change of pace from Manila, with lush greenery, quiet beaches, and a more relaxed atmosphere. Most family-friendly resorts here feature large pools, direct beach access, and recreational activities such as kayaking or paddle boarding.

You may wish to enjoy a casual walk along Alona Beach or relax by the pool while the kids explore the grounds. There are also several cafés and restaurants nearby offering Filipino, Western, and seafood options if you’re ready to venture out for lunch or dinner.

The remainder of the day is free. Enjoy the sound of waves, fresh air, and space to unwind as you ease into the rhythm of the Visayas. Many families find this a good day to catch up on rest or simply enjoy the resort facilities before a full-day outing tomorrow.

After an early breakfast, meet your guide in the lobby for a full-day tour of Bohol’s natural and cultural highlights. Your journey begins with a scenic inland drive of approximately 1.5 hours (60km), passing through coconut groves and small villages en route to the Chocolate Hills. These iconic mounds are named for their shape and brown appearance in the dry season. Climb to a panoramic viewpoint for photos and sweeping views of this geological wonder.

Next, stop at the Corella Tarsier Sanctuary, a conservation centre dedicated to one of the world’s smallest primates. The sanctuary walk is short and suitable for all ages, and the tarsiers are usually spotted clinging to trees in a shaded forest enclosure. From here, continue on to the Loboc River, where you’ll board a floating restaurant for a leisurely buffet lunch cruise. Local musicians often perform as you drift past jungle scenery and riverside communities.

In the afternoon, visit nearby heritage towns such as Loboc, Loay, or Bilar, where you may stop at Spanish-era churches or traditional village houses. The drive offers a glimpse into rural life in Bohol, and your guide will share insights into local customs and history along the way.

Return to your hotel by late afternoon. After a refreshing shower or swim, enjoy dinner at your resort or explore the nearby beachfront area for a more casual meal. The day combines light activity with cultural immersion, and is typically a highlight for travellers of all ages.

Today is completely free for you to relax and explore Bohol at your own pace. After breakfast, you might choose to stay within your resort and enjoy the family-friendly amenities on offer - many hotels in Panglao feature beachfront loungers, kids’ play zones, and water sports centres offering paddleboarding, snorkelling, or kayaking.

If your family prefers a more active day, optional excursions can be arranged. These include dolphin-watching tours at Pamilacan Island, scuba diving trips for certified divers, or a visit to Hinagdanan Cave, a fascinating underground pool with limestone formations, located around 30 minutes from Alona Beach. For something more low-key, you could explore the local village markets or hire a tricycle to visit nearby souvenir shops.

Families travelling with younger children may simply enjoy a slow day by the beach, building sandcastles, swimming, or walking the coastline. The waters around Panglao are usually calm and safe, and many beachfront cafés cater well to families with casual menus and relaxed service.

The evening is yours to enjoy as you like. You might dine in your hotel or head back to the lively stretch of Alona Beach, where small restaurants serve fresh seafood and Filipino favourites. Live acoustic music and sunset views provide a fitting close to your stay in Bohol.

After breakfast, check out and transfer to Panglao Airport for your onward flight to El Nido in Palawan. This direct flight takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Upon arrival at El Nido Lio Airport, you’ll be greeted by a resort representative and transferred to your hotel - travel times range from 20 to 45 minutes depending on resort location, as many properties are set along remote coastal areas or private coves.

El Nido offers a striking contrast to Bohol’s gentle inland scenery. Here, towering limestone cliffs rise from emerald water, and the landscape is dotted with jungle-covered islands, lagoons, and hidden beaches. Once at your resort, check in and enjoy a welcome drink before settling into your room.

Spend the afternoon at leisure. Many of El Nido’s resorts offer all-inclusive activities or guided suggestions, such as kayaking around the nearby bay, snorkelling from the shore, or simply relaxing poolside with a book while the kids swim. If you're staying at a Premier property, staff may orient you with included excursions and services available throughout your stay.

Dinner tonight can be enjoyed with a view - most El Nido resorts offer open-air restaurants where you can dine on fresh seafood and tropical fruits while watching the sunset over Bacuit Bay. Rest well this evening, as tomorrow’s island-hopping adventure is one of the most anticipated experiences of the trip.

After breakfast, prepare for a full day on the water exploring the stunning limestone islands and hidden lagoons of Bacuit Bay. For guests on the Standard and Deluxe programs, the island-hopping excursion is shared with a small group and led by experienced local guides. For those on the Premier package, the day’s adventure is arranged directly by your resort and typically includes a private or semi-private boat.

The tour usually departs mid-morning and lasts until mid-afternoon. Depending on conditions, stops may include Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, Secret Beach, or Shimizu Island - all known for their turquoise waters, dramatic karst formations, and excellent snorkelling. Distances between islands are short, with most transfers taking 15 to 30 minutes by traditional outrigger boat.

Lunch is typically served on board or at a remote island picnic site, offering grilled fish, tropical fruits, and Filipino-style barbecue. The pace of the day is relaxed, with ample time to swim, explore, or simply enjoy the scenery. Life vests, snorkelling gear, and towels are usually provided, but you may want to bring reef-safe sunscreen, a waterproof bag, and dry clothes for the return trip.

You’ll be back at the resort by late afternoon with time to shower and unwind. Many families choose to enjoy a quiet evening meal after a full day outdoors. If your children still have energy to burn, some resorts offer evening movies, stargazing, or gentle walks along the beach.

Enjoy a slower start today. After breakfast, the day is yours to relax or take part in additional activities offered by your hotel. Many resorts have kayaks available for use, and paddling along the shoreline is a peaceful way to take in El Nido’s spectacular surroundings. For families with older kids or teens, there are options to arrange scuba diving, inland waterfall hikes, or visits to nearby fishing villages.

Those seeking downtime can stay within the resort grounds. El Nido’s Premier resorts in particular are known for their high standard of comfort and seclusion. Pools, spa treatments, and shaded beach cabanas provide ample opportunity to unwind, while younger travellers can explore rock pools or take part in junior nature activities offered by some properties.

If you'd like to explore beyond the hotel, a short boat or van ride can bring you to Nacpan Beach, a wide and quiet stretch of sand about 45 minutes from the town of El Nido. It’s ideal for a casual beach lunch and a swim in open waters with gentle waves. Alternatively, stay closer to base and enjoy a guided mangrove paddle or sunset kayak from the resort.

Return to your accommodation in the late afternoon. Many resorts offer happy hour specials or fire pits on the beach: perfect for ending the day with drinks and light snacks while watching the sky turn orange and gold. Tonight is your final evening in El Nido, so take time to savour the beauty and calm before tomorrow’s journey to Boracay.

After an early breakfast, check out and transfer to El Nido Lio Airport for your flight to Caticlan, the gateway to Boracay. The direct flight takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Upon arrival in Caticlan, you’ll be met by your local representative who will assist with the seamless transfer process, including a short van ride (approximately 10 minutes), a 10-15 minute boat transfer across to Boracay Island, and a final drive to your hotel. The entire transfer from airport to hotel usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.

Once checked in at your Boracay accommodation, take time to relax and settle into your new surroundings. Boracay is one of the Philippines' most iconic islands, known for its powdery white sand beaches, calm turquoise waters, and lively beachside atmosphere. Most resorts are located along White Beach, a 4km stretch divided into three stations, each offering a slightly different vibe.

Spend the afternoon as you wish. Families with younger children may choose to stay close to the hotel pool or beach, while more adventurous travellers could take a walk along the main beach path to explore local shops and cafés. The water is generally calm and shallow, making it ideal for swimming and beach play.

In the evening, enjoy dinner at one of the many beachfront restaurants - Boracay is known for its casual open-air dining and family-friendly menus. Expect grilled seafood, tropical juices, and plenty of mango desserts. After dinner, you can take a walk along the beach or simply enjoy the warm breeze from your resort.

After a relaxed breakfast, the day is free for you to enjoy the many beachside activities Boracay has to offer. Start with a swim in the sea or a morning paddleboard session: equipment rentals are widely available, and the conditions are usually gentle. Families might also enjoy a visit to D'Mall, a pedestrian market filled with small boutiques, snack stalls, and souvenir shops just a short walk from many hotels.

If you're looking for something more active, optional excursions such as helmet diving, glass-bottom boat tours, or banana boat rides can be arranged through the hotel or local operators. Boracay also has quieter inland areas where you can take a short hike or visit a butterfly garden or zipline park, though most visitors prefer to keep things beach-focused.

In the mid to late afternoon, you’ll be picked up for a scenic sunset cruise along Boracay Bay. The cruise typically lasts 1.5 to 2 hours and includes light refreshments on board. Sailing past the coastline while the sun dips below the horizon is a memorable experience, with calm seas, pastel skies, and photo-worthy views that the whole family will enjoy.

Return to shore just in time for dinner. This evening, you might try one of the more atmospheric beachfront spots that offer acoustic music and tables in the sand. With kids happily worn out from the day, parents can enjoy a well-earned drink and reflect on the trip so far.

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast, then enjoy your final full day on the island at your own pace. This is an opportunity to slow down and take in more of what Boracay has to offer, whether that’s lounging by the sea, indulging in a spa treatment, or exploring one of the lesser-visited parts of the island.

For families seeking a bit of adventure, consider a visit to Puka Beach on the island’s northern tip. Less crowded than White Beach, it has coarser sand and stronger waves, making it a good spot for shell collecting and beach walks. Travel time is about 20–30 minutes by tricycle. Another option is Ilig-Iligan Beach, tucked away and quieter still, with dramatic rock formations and calm swimming areas.

If you didn’t get the chance earlier, this could also be a good day to try a short snorkelling tour, a local cooking class, or a family-friendly mermaid swimming workshop - something fun and a little different for the kids. Or you might simply spend a lazy afternoon under a shaded umbrella with fresh coconut in hand while the kids build sandcastles nearby.

The evening is perfect for a farewell beach dinner. As this is your last night in Boracay, choose a restaurant with outdoor seating and a view of the water. Many offer fire dance shows or gentle live music to enhance the experience. It’s a great way to reflect on your time in Palawan and the Visayas before returning to Manila tomorrow.

After breakfast, check out and begin your return journey to the capital. The transfer from your hotel to the airport includes the same route in reverse - a short drive to the jetty port, a 10–15 minute boat crossing to Caticlan, and a transfer to the airport, followed by a flight of about 1 hour and 15 minutes back to Manila. Altogether, allow around 3.5 to 4 hours from hotel check-out to hotel check-in in Manila.

Upon arrival, you’ll be met by a local representative who will assist with your transfer to the hotel. Check in and take the afternoon to rest or enjoy a final look around the city. If you’re staying near the bayside, consider a walk at sunset along Manila Baywalk, or if you're staying in Makati or BGC, browse one of the nearby shopping centres or local design markets.

The afternoon is yours to use as you wish, perhaps a final bit of souvenir shopping or a swim at the hotel pool. If you missed visiting the National Museum or Ayala Museum earlier in the trip, this could be a good opportunity, depending on your location and energy levels.

In the evening, enjoy a relaxed final dinner in Manila. Your hotel concierge can recommend a local Filipino restaurant or international option depending on your preference. After nearly two weeks exploring the islands, a calm and easy night will set you up well for tomorrow’s international departure.

After breakfast, enjoy your final morning in the Philippines. Depending on your flight time, you may have a few hours to relax at the hotel, take a short stroll nearby, or enjoy a final dip in the pool before packing up. Your hotel’s concierge can assist with any last-minute errands, such as printing boarding passes or arranging for a late check-out, subject to availability.

When it’s time, your driver will meet you in the hotel lobby for your private transfer to Ninoy Aquino International Airport. The journey to the airport can take between 45 minutes and 1 hour depending on time of day and traffic. Your local representative will assist with luggage and guide you through the departure procedures as needed.

If your flight is scheduled for later in the day, consider requesting a short extension at the hotel or arranging a simple nearby excursion like a walk in Rizal Park, or a visit to a local handicraft shop for last-minute souvenirs. Be sure to leave ample time to return to the hotel, collect your bags, and transfer to the airport.

As your journey concludes, reflect on the memories made across islands and coastlines, cultural encounters, and shared family experiences. From the history of Manila to the natural beauty of Bohol, El Nido, and Boracay, this 13-day adventure offers a rich and varied introduction to the Philippines. Safe travels!