20 Days - Philippines In Depth

Welcome to the Philippines! Upon arrival in Manila, you will be met at the airport by a local representative and transferred by private vehicle to your hotel. This first evening is a chance to recover from your international flight and settle into the rhythm of the Philippines. Manila is a large, sprawling city with layers of history and a dynamic cultural mix.

Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to rest at the hotel or take a short walk nearby. Many of the city’s central districts offer a glimpse of daily life, from street food stalls and colonial-era buildings to shopping centres and cafes. The air is warm and often humid, but the energy of the capital is instantly noticeable.

Your hotel provides a comfortable base for the night, and the team will ensure your check-in runs smoothly. Room amenities, Wi-Fi and dining options are available should you prefer to stay in. This first night allows you to ease into the journey ahead, which will soon take you across islands and regions with entirely different landscapes and character.

Over the next three weeks, you will travel through the Visayas and Palawan, visiting marine sanctuaries, waterfalls, heritage towns and remote island coastlines. This introduction to Manila marks the beginning of a varied and rewarding travel experience.

After breakfast, your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby for a full day exploring Manila. Begin in Intramuros, the city’s historic walled district that was once the seat of Spanish colonial power in the East. Walk along cobbled streets and visit landmarks such as Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church, both of which speak to the city’s long colonial past.

Continue to Binondo, Manila’s Chinatown and one of the oldest in the world. It remains a thriving district where Chinese-Filipino culture continues through food, medicine, religious practices and trade. Here, you will stop for lunch at a traditional restaurant, sampling familiar dishes with regional Filipino flavours such as lumpia, noodle soups and stir-fried vegetables.

In the afternoon, the tour may include visits to Rizal Park, the Chinese Cemetery or the National Museum depending on your interest. These sites present the city’s modern identity and how it has adapted to post-war rebuilding and urban expansion. The mix of old and new provides a more rounded view of this constantly evolving capital.

After a full day of walking and sightseeing, return to your hotel. This evening is free to relax or explore nearby cafes or restaurants. Tomorrow you begin your journey south to the Visayas region, where coastal towns and marine reserves await.

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and transfer to the domestic terminal for your flight to Dumaguete. The flight takes just over an hour, and upon landing in Negros Oriental, you’ll be met by your local guide and transferred to your hotel. Dumaguete is a small coastal city often referred to as the “City of Gentle People,” known for its relaxed pace and proximity to marine reserves.

After check-in and some time to freshen up, you may wish to take a short walk along Rizal Boulevard, the city’s oceanfront promenade lined with acacia trees and small cafes. Nearby, the old bell tower and university campus offer quiet glimpses into Dumaguete’s Spanish and American colonial past. The atmosphere is welcoming and unhurried, making it easy to settle in after the day’s travel.

If you arrive early enough, you could visit Silliman University’s Anthropology Museum or browse a few local craft shops in the centre of town. Dinner is available at the hotel or one of several seaside restaurants, many serving fresh seafood and Visayan specialities. Dumaguete’s culinary offerings are simple but thoughtful, often incorporating local produce and fish caught earlier the same day.

Tonight, you’ll sleep in comfort with the sound of waves nearby. The city serves as the launch point for tomorrow’s marine adventure to Apo Island, one of the oldest and most respected marine sanctuaries in the country.

After an early breakfast, you’ll be collected from the hotel for a full-day trip to Apo Island Marine Sanctuary, located about 40 minutes away by road and another 30 minutes by boat. Apo Island is a small volcanic island with vibrant coral reefs and shallow waters, protected since the 1980s as a no-fishing zone by local communities. It has become a model for sustainable marine tourism in the Philippines.

The highlight of the day is snorkelling alongside green sea turtles in their natural habitat. Apo’s shallow reefs are ideal for observing marine life, and visibility is often excellent. Your guide will explain the conservation efforts that have preserved this reef ecosystem, from coral monitoring to community-managed regulations. The island’s success has made it a subject of interest for marine biologists and ecotourism advocates.

You’ll enjoy a picnic-style lunch on the island, followed by more time to swim, relax or walk through the small village. The paths are lined with coral stones and the beach is often dotted with colourful fishing boats. Apo Island is not a luxury destination, but its simplicity and ecological integrity make it deeply memorable.

Return to Dumaguete in the late afternoon, and spend the evening at your leisure. Whether you choose to dine by the boulevard or rest at your hotel, the day offers a rewarding mix of natural beauty and meaningful insight into marine conservation in the Philippines.

After breakfast and check-out, transfer to the ferry terminal for your journey to Siquijor. The ferry takes around 1.5 hours, depending on sea conditions. Upon arrival, you’ll be met at the port and transferred to your hotel. Siquijor is one of the lesser-known islands in the Visayas, long associated with mysticism, folk healing and natural beauty.

Once considered a place of witches and spirits, modern Siquijor is peaceful and charming, with quiet beaches, forested hills and traditional wooden houses. Check in to your beachside resort or inland guesthouse, where the pace slows even further. After settling in, take some time to explore your surroundings or simply relax by the sea.

The island’s reputation for spiritual healing remains strong, and locals are happy to share stories of age-old rituals passed down through generations. For travellers interested in cultural immersion, a session with a traditional herbalist or healer can be arranged. Otherwise, the afternoon is free for beach time, swimming or enjoying the shade of palm trees.

This evening, enjoy dinner at your resort or a nearby eatery. Siquijor is quiet at night, with only the sounds of insects, wind and ocean to keep you company. It’s an ideal place to rest deeply and begin to feel connected to the island’s understated, natural charm.

After breakfast, set out with your local guide for a full-day exploration of Siquijor’s most iconic and culturally significant sites. Your journey begins at the Old Balete Tree, a more than 400-year-old banyan tree that looms over a natural spring at its base. Locals believe the tree holds spiritual energy, and its roots have long been part of the island’s folklore. Continue to the Church of San Isidoro in Lazi, one of the oldest churches in Asia and an impressive example of coral-stone construction. Nearby, the adjacent convent building is among the largest from the Spanish era in the Philippines.

The tour continues to the Cambugahay Waterfalls, where a short jungle walk brings you to a wide, three-tiered cascade with bright blue pools. You’ll have time to swim or enjoy a rope swing into the water. Afterward, you’ll travel inland to Cantabon Cave, a natural limestone formation that features narrow passages, stalactites and underground pools. Guided entry into the cave is required, and your local guide will provide helmets and torches for the descent.

From there, make your way to Capilay Lake, a popular recreation spot for island residents located in the small town of San Juan. The spring-fed lake is surrounded by gardens and shaded areas, and serves as a pleasant place to pause before returning to your hotel. Along the route, you’ll also pass quiet fishing villages, open coconut plantations and views over the Bohol Sea.

A simple lunch will be arranged during the tour at a local eatery or coastal cafe. After returning to your resort in the late afternoon, the evening is yours to enjoy. You may wish to relax on the beach, read in a hammock, or enjoy dinner with a view of the sea. The day offers a deep and well-paced introduction to the nature, history and quiet mysticism that make Siquijor unique.

Return to your hotel by late afternoon. The rest of the day is free to enjoy as you please. You may want to revisit a favourite spot from the tour, take a sunset swim, or relax with a cool drink and watch the sky shift colour over the water.

After breakfast, check out and transfer to the port for the ferry to Bohol. The crossing takes about 1.5 hours. On arrival at Tagbilaran port, you’ll be met and transferred by road to your accommodation. Bohol is one of the most diverse islands in the Philippines, offering beaches, heritage churches, forest reserves and one of the country’s most curious natural wonders - the Chocolate Hills.

Once checked in, the afternoon is free to relax or explore the surrounding area. Most accommodations are based near Panglao Island, connected to Bohol by bridge, and known for its white-sand beaches and dive resorts. The town centre is a short drive away and offers casual dining, cafes and small shops.

For those with energy to spare, optional afternoon activities include snorkelling, stand-up paddleboarding or a visit to the nearby Hinagdanan Cave. Otherwise, this is a good day to enjoy the hotel’s amenities, rest, and prepare for tomorrow’s full-day exploration of Bohol’s inland highlights.

Dinner is at your leisure this evening. Panglao’s beachfront restaurants serve seafood and regional dishes in a relaxed setting, often accompanied by acoustic music or quiet waves on the shore.

After breakfast, meet your guide for a full-day tour exploring Bohol’s inland highlights. The first stop is the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary, home to one of the world’s smallest primates. These nocturnal creatures are sensitive to noise and movement, so your visit will be quiet and respectful, giving you a chance to observe them at rest in a natural forest setting. From there, continue to the Chocolate Hills, a collection of over 1,200 symmetrical limestone mounds that turn brown in the dry season, giving them their name.

You’ll have time to climb to a panoramic viewpoint for sweeping views across this unique geological formation. The tour also includes a visit to the Loboc River, where you’ll board a floating restaurant for a leisurely lunch cruise. As you glide past nipa huts and palm groves, local musicians often perform folk songs, adding a festive atmosphere to the meal. The river is calm and green, fed by springs in the surrounding hills.

Other points of interest today include the man-made Mahogany Forest, where a stretch of road is lined with towering trees planted decades ago, and the Blood Compact Shrine, which commemorates the first treaty of friendship between Spanish explorers and Filipino leaders. You may also visit Baclayon Church, one of the oldest stone churches in the Philippines, dating back to the early 18th century.

Return to your resort by late afternoon and enjoy a relaxed evening. Whether you spend it poolside, on the beach or dining at a nearby restaurant, today offers a full and well-balanced experience of Bohol’s natural and cultural highlights.

Today is yours to enjoy at leisure. You may choose to simply unwind at your resort, taking advantage of the beach, pool and other amenities. Panglao Island is known for its soft white sand and gentle swimming beaches, making it ideal for a restful day with a book or a long swim. Most resorts also offer optional activities such as massage, yoga or sunset cocktails by the shore.

For those looking for more activity, snorkelling and diving excursions can be arranged to Balicasag Island or Virgin Island, both located just offshore. These areas are part of a marine sanctuary and offer excellent visibility, coral gardens and a chance to see sea turtles and colourful reef fish. The water is usually calm and warm, suitable for all levels of swimmers.

Another option is to visit Hinagdanan Cave, a limestone cavern with a clear, swimmable pool and natural skylights. You may also take a tuk-tuk into town to visit local markets or small souvenir shops selling crafts, honey and woven mats. Bohol’s charm lies in the balance between accessibility and authenticity.

In the evening, return to your hotel and relax. Most beachfront restaurants offer grilled seafood and local favourites such as kinilaw or sinigang. After several days of movement, this day is a welcome opportunity to slow down and recharge before continuing your journey through the Visayas.

After breakfast, check out and transfer to the Tagbilaran port for your ferry to Cebu. The boat crossing takes approximately two hours and arrives at Cebu City’s pier. On arrival, a local representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Cebu is the commercial hub of the Visayas and the oldest city in the Philippines, yet it still holds traces of its Spanish past amid the bustle of a modern port city.

Once checked in, the rest of the day is free to relax or explore your surroundings. Depending on your hotel location, you may be close to the historical district where landmarks such as Magellan’s Cross, Fort San Pedro and the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño are located. These sites reflect the city’s pivotal role in the Spanish colonisation of the Philippines.

If you’re interested in shopping or food, Cebu is also known for its vibrant culinary scene. You might try lechon, the city’s most celebrated dish, or visit a modern food market or craft beer bar. The mix of heritage and contemporary lifestyle gives Cebu a unique urban energy that contrasts sharply with the quieter islands visited earlier in the trip.

Enjoy the evening at your hotel or out in town. Tomorrow, you’ll leave the city behind for a day in the countryside, where waterfalls and jungle trails await.

Today’s excursion takes you out of the city and into the southern countryside of Cebu island. After an early breakfast, travel by private vehicle for around three hours to reach the Kawasan Falls area in the town of Badian. The drive follows coastal roads lined with fishing villages and views of the Tanon Strait. Upon arrival, begin a short hike through bamboo groves and jungle paths to reach the falls.

Kawasan Falls is known for its bright turquoise pools and cascading freshwater tiers. The main waterfall feeds into a large natural swimming basin, and there are upper levels you can explore by foot or with a guide. While the area is popular, it still retains a relaxed atmosphere, especially early in the day. You’ll have time to swim, take photos or simply enjoy the setting surrounded by forest and birdsong.

Lunch will be arranged at a simple local eatery, typically offering grilled meat or fish, vegetables and rice. For those seeking more adventure, optional canyoning trips can be arranged in advance, though they require a higher level of fitness and confidence in the water. Most guests, however, choose to enjoy the site at a gentle pace.

Return to Cebu City in the late afternoon. The journey back offers another look at the island’s coastline and agricultural areas. Spend your evening at leisure, perhaps enjoying another round of local cuisine or simply resting.

Today is a free day to relax, explore or take part in optional activities. After several days of active travel, many guests choose to enjoy the facilities at the hotel or seek out a massage or spa treatment. Cebu City also has shopping malls, art galleries and boutique cafes if you feel like venturing out with no fixed agenda.

For something cultural, you may wish to return to the historic quarter for a more detailed look at sites you missed earlier. The Casa Gorordo Museum and the Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House are both well preserved and offer a glimpse of upper-class life during the Spanish era. Cebu’s Catholic churches remain active places of worship and can be visited respectfully outside of service hours.

Alternatively, arrange a short boat trip to nearby islands such as Hilutungan or Nalusuan, both of which offer good snorkelling and calm waters. These are half-day excursions and can be arranged through your hotel or a trusted tour operator. Guides and equipment are usually included, making the process simple and convenient.

In the evening, consider dining at one of Cebu’s rooftop restaurants or seaside venues. The food scene here reflects a mix of Filipino, Chinese, and international influences, and the relaxed service and live music create a casual, enjoyable atmosphere.

After breakfast, check out and transfer to Mactan Airport for your domestic flight to Busuanga, the gateway to Coron in northern Palawan. The flight takes approximately 1.5 hours. Upon arrival, a representative will meet you and transfer you by road to your hotel in Coron town or a nearby coastal resort. The drive from the airport takes around 45 minutes.

Coron has developed in recent years but still retains a rugged island feel. It is surrounded by limestone islands, wreck dive sites and inland lakes, making it one of the most visually striking destinations in the country. After checking in, the afternoon is yours to relax or explore the small town centre, where you’ll find souvenir shops, casual restaurants and dive shops.

You may choose to visit Maquinit Hot Springs for a late afternoon soak or take a gentle hike up Mt Tapyas for sunset views over Coron Bay. The town itself is compact and walkable, with motorbike taxis available for short trips. Dinner tonight can be arranged at your resort or in town, depending on your preference.

Tomorrow, you’ll join a full-day boat tour of Coron’s island highlights, a true standout of the itinerary.

After an early breakfast, prepare for a full-day island-hopping tour in the clear blue waters surrounding Coron. Today’s itinerary follows the popular “Super Ultimate” route, which includes visits to Coron’s most famous sites. Your day begins with a boat ride through the bay, past towering limestone cliffs and emerald green water, arriving first at Kayangan Lake, one of the cleanest lakes in Asia. The short hike to the viewpoint provides a panoramic photograph that has become one of the defining images of the Philippines.

Next, visit Barracuda Lake, a surreal body of water with both salt and freshwater layers, known for its unusual temperature shifts and stunning underwater rock formations. The lake is calm, and its surreal, otherworldly landscape makes it popular with free divers and snorkellers alike. You’ll then continue to the Twin Lagoons, where boats anchor in shallow water and guests swim through a narrow opening between limestone walls to reach the inner lagoon.

The tour includes a beach picnic lunch, often served on one of the white-sand islands or at a shaded pavilion. Meals are fresh and simple—grilled fish, rice, vegetables and fruit—and the setting is as memorable as the food. The afternoon may include stops at coral gardens for snorkelling, where you can expect to see vibrant reef fish, giant clams and branching corals in clear shallow water.

Return to your resort by mid to late afternoon. After a day of swimming, sun and sea, most travellers prefer a quiet evening with dinner either at their accommodation or a seaside restaurant in town. The beauty of Coron lies not only in its sights but also in the sense of being surrounded by nature, water and silence.

Today is free for you to relax, explore independently or take an optional activity. Many guests use this day to enjoy the resort’s facilities, arrange a massage or revisit one of the nearby beaches. If you prefer more activity, another boat trip can be arranged to visit less-crowded spots such as Malcapuya Island or Black Island, both of which offer fantastic beaches and snorkelling in a more remote setting.

Coron is also one of the top dive destinations in the Philippines, particularly for those interested in wreck diving. The waters around Busuanga are home to several Japanese World War II shipwrecks, now encrusted with coral and accessible to both novice and experienced divers. Dive shops in town offer introductory dives, refresher courses or full-day dive excursions, including equipment and guides.

For a land-based activity, you might choose to explore the town on foot, visit the public market, or climb Mt Tapyas again for another perspective on the area. In the late afternoon, a visit to Maquinit Hot Springs is especially enjoyable, with warm saltwater pools and jungle surroundings providing a soothing end to the day.

This evening, reflect on your experiences in the northern Palawan islands. Whether it’s the colour of the water, the scale of the cliffs or the quiet rhythm of island life, Coron tends to leave a lasting impression.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your short domestic flight from Coron to El Nido. The flight takes about 40 minutes, followed by a transfer to your hotel either by boat or road depending on your accommodation. El Nido is located at the northern tip of mainland Palawan and is best known for the jagged limestone karsts rising dramatically from the turquoise waters of Bacuit Bay.

After checking in, spend the remainder of the day at leisure. El Nido town is small and walkable, with a mix of beach bars, cafes, dive shops and boutiques. Many travellers opt to stay at a beachside resort further from the town centre, surrounded by jungle or perched on smaller islands. These resorts typically offer quiet surroundings, spa services and sunset views.

For those arriving early, a kayak rental or short paddleboard session in Bacuit Bay is a great way to ease into the area. The waters are calm and protected by the surrounding islands, making them suitable for beginners. Alternatively, simply relax with a drink at the beach and watch the sun set behind limestone silhouettes on the horizon.

Dinner is at your leisure. Local menus include fresh grilled seafood, coconut-based curries and international fare, often served in open-air settings with ocean views. El Nido offers a peaceful transition from Coron and prepares you for another full day of exploration on the water.

After breakfast, set out on a full-day island-hopping tour through Bacuit Bay, a marine reserve that has become one of the Philippines’ most photographed locations. The tour includes several iconic sites, such as the Big Lagoon, where you’ll paddle through a narrow entrance surrounded by limestone cliffs into a calm, blue-green pool. From there, head to Shimizu Island, a favourite snorkelling spot known for coral and fish diversity.

Continue to the Secret Lagoon, hidden behind a curtain of rocks, where a small opening leads to a shallow pool enclosed by limestone walls. This area requires some wading through water and crouching through the rock gap, but the sense of discovery adds to the experience. Lunch is usually served on Entalula Island or another pristine beach, under the shade of coconut trees.

The tour concludes with a visit to 7 Commandos Beach, a long sandy stretch backed by forest and known for its relaxed vibe and beach bar. Each stop offers something different—quiet swimming, snorkelling, cliffside views or simple lounging in the sun. The boats are well-equipped and include snorkelling gear, drinking water and friendly local crews.

Return to your resort in the late afternoon. After a full day of sun and salt water, many travellers enjoy a cold drink, a swim in the pool or a quiet moment on their balcony. The stillness of El Nido in the early evening is part of what makes this part of the journey so memorable.

Today is at leisure, giving you the freedom to enjoy El Nido at your own pace. Start with a slow breakfast overlooking the water, followed by a relaxing swim or spa treatment. If you are feeling active, kayak rentals are available for independent exploration of smaller beaches or coves close to shore. The clear, calm waters are ideal for a few unhurried hours on the water.

For those interested in more adventure, additional tours can be arranged, including cliff climbing, scuba diving or boat trips to lesser-known islands such as Cadlao or Matinloc. Alternatively, take a motorbike or tricycle inland to explore waterfalls, caves and rural communities. El Nido also offers short hikes to scenic viewpoints over the bay.

Back in town, local craft shops sell handmade jewellery, woven bags and coconut oil products. Cafes and restaurants provide shady spots for a quiet drink or a mid-afternoon snack. Most visitors appreciate the opportunity to slow down, watch village life and enjoy the natural setting.

This evening, consider dining by candlelight at a beach restaurant or sharing a drink at a relaxed bar with your feet in the sand. This final full day in El Nido invites you to rest and reflect on the journey so far and prepare for your return to the capital tomorrow.

After breakfast, check out of your resort and transfer to the airport for your flight back to Manila. The flight takes about one hour and fifteen minutes. On arrival, a private transfer will bring you to your hotel for one final overnight stay in the capital. Depending on your arrival time, the rest of the day is free for shopping, sightseeing or simply resting after your coastal adventures.

You may choose to visit a museum or gallery if you missed it at the beginning of the tour, or enjoy a final meal in one of Manila’s well-regarded restaurants. The Makati or Bonifacio Global City areas offer high-end dining, while neighbourhoods like Malate or Escolta provide a more local feel.

If you are interested in picking up souvenirs, shops throughout the city sell Filipino-made goods including textiles, crafts, food items and artisan products. The hotel staff or guide can assist with recommendations based on your preferences and location.

This final night in Manila marks the closing chapter of your journey through the islands. It is a moment to take stock of the many landscapes and cultures you’ve experienced, from mountain forests and coral reefs to colonial towns and modern cities.

After breakfast, check out of your hotel. A private transfer will bring you to the international terminal for your onward flight. Depending on your departure time, you may have a few final hours to relax in the hotel or nearby cafe before your airport transfer.

This concludes your 20-day journey through the Philippines. From the heritage streets of Manila to the marine sanctuaries of Apo Island, the mystical hills of Siquijor, the countryside of Bohol and the limestone seascapes of Palawan, the itinerary has shown you the country’s remarkable range of experiences.

This tour offers a complete introduction to the diversity of the Philippines, not only in scenery but also in culture, history and local life. As you head to the airport, take with you memories of quiet beaches, warm welcomes and a deeper understanding of this island nation’s depth and character.