Best of the Philippines - 14 days

tourhub | On The Go Tours | Best of the Philippines - 14 days | 3324/BOPHIL | Map

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~~$6275~~

$5977

Best of the Philippines - 14 days

14 Days Starting in Manila, Philippines and ending in Boracay, Philippines

Visiting: Manila, Banaue, Sagada, Baguio, Bohol, El Nido, Boracay

Tour operator:

On The Go Tours

Group Type:

Private

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

Tour operated in:

English

From: $6275 $5977 Travel Club discount: -$298

NB: Prices correct on 21-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating 14-day journey through the Philippines, exploring its rich culture and stunning landscapes. Begin in Manila, where you can delve into the historic Intramuros. Marvel at the UNESCO-listed Banaue Rice Terraces and engage with local villagers in traditional rice demonstrations. In Sagada, witness hand-loom weaving and pottery making. Discover Baguio's vibrant markets and landmarks. Encounter the world's smallest primates in Bohol and cruise the scenic Loboc River. Experience the breathtaking beauty of El Nido's Bacuit Bay through island hopping and kayaking. Finally, unwind on Boracay's pristine white sand beaches, indulging in leisure activities and vibrant nightlife. This small group tour includes guided sightseeing, private transfers, and stays in 3-5 star hotels, ensuring a comfortable and enriching experience. With flights between key destinations and ample free time, this tour offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in the Philippines.

Highlights

Manila - Explore the historic walled city of Intramuros.
Banaue - Visit the UNESCO-listed Banaue Rice Terraces and participate in a traditional rice demonstration.
Sagada - Experience hand-loom weaving and pottery making with local artisans.
Baguio - Discover landmarks like the Mansion House and Burnham Park.
Bohol - See the world's smallest primates at the Philippine Tarsier Foundation and cruise the Loboc River.
El Nido - Island hop, swim, and kayak in the stunning Bacuit Bay.
Boracay - Relax on the famous white sand beaches and enjoy vibrant nightlife.

Itinerary

tourhub | On The Go Tours | Best of the Philippines - 14 days | 3324/BOPHIL | Route Map

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Day 1: Manila

Location: Manila

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

Manila - Cauayan - Banaue. You will check in at Manila airport for your included flight to Cauayan, where you will be met and transferred to Banaue, around a 3-hour drive.

En route, you will stop for lunch at a local restaurant before passing through Kiangan, a village located near the picturesque banks of the Ibulao River. Kiangan is said to be the first village of the mythological ancestors of the Ifugao, Wigan and Bugan.

Upon entering the town of Banaue, you will proceed to Barangay Viewpoint to catch an all-encompassing view of the rice terraces. These impressive terraces represent the ingenuity and engineering prowess of the Ifugao people.

Day 2: Banaue

Location: Banaue

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Banaue - Bontoc - Bauko - Sagada. Today after breakfast, you will board a local jeepney to explore the stunning scenery and rich culture of Banaue. Near the local church, observe a 10-storey house built on the slopes, showcasing the Ifugao’s adaptability.

As you navigate the winding roads, you will make stops to admire the rice terraces and greet friendly locals along the way. At Barangay Viewpoint, marvel at the UNESCO-listed Banaue Rice Terraces, which are over 2,000 years old. Using primitive tools, ancient tribesmen carved these terraces into the mountains, creating a network of irrigation channels from the upper terraces to the lower. When thick mists envelop the peaks of these terraces, they evoke images of staircases ascending towards heaven, leading to the region being referred to as the ‘Stairway to the Sky’.

Another highlight is a short hike down to the Banga-an Rice Terraces, where you can interact with villagers. If school is in session, drop by the local school to observe the children during lessons. Participate in a rice production demonstration and experience traditional rice pounding and planting.

Afterward, trek back for lunch overlooking the rice paddies at Cliff Garden (closed on Sundays). Wind down your tour with a visit to the local market and native handicraft stores for unique souvenirs.

After checking out, you will journey through Mt. Polis, Ifugao’s third highest mountain, stopping at Bontoc to visit a museum showcasing artifacts from the Igorot headhunting days and explore the local market. Later you will arrive in Sagada, known for its stunning landscapes and cool climate, famous for its hanging coffins. Afterward, you will depart for Bauko.

Day 3: Sagada

Location: Sagada

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Sagada - Baguio. Today you visit the Sagada Weaving House, where local women create beautiful hand-woven products. Next, head to Sagada Pottery to see a collective of renowned ceramic artists from the Applai Kankanaey indigenous peoples. You can even try your hand at pottery under the guidance of a resident artist.

Travel along Halsema Highway towards Benguet, stopping in Bayangan to admire the stunning terraces planted with vegetables. From a height of 7,400 feet, the view is as breathtaking as the rice terraces. Keep an eye out for cable cars used to transport vegetable, a testament to Igorot ingenuity.

Arriving in Baguio City, you’ll see parks and gardens filled with flowers and pine trees known as the summer capital for rest and relaxation. Drive past Camp John Hay, a former U.S. military recreation camp, and explore Wright Park a golf course, where you can rent horses for riding. Visit the Mansion House, the summer residence of the President of the Philippines, and Mines View Park for panoramic views of the hills. Continue on towards the city centre, catching a glimpse of the Baguio Cathedral perched atop Mount Mary Hill, and passing by Burnham Park, which features an orchidarium, a boating lake, a parade ground, and various kiosks and restaurants.

Finally, visit the vibrant Public Market, where mountain people buy and sell goods, including fresh produce, meat, fish, fresh tobacco and local handicrafts.

Day 4: Baguio

Location: Baguio

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Baguio - Bacolor - Manila. Today we visit Bacolor, a town affected by the fast-moving flows of volcanic debris from Mt. Pinatubo’s eruption in 1991. The area, once a wasteland, has few reminders of the destruction, with the half-buried San Guillermo Church standing to represent the history of Bacolor.

As you travel on the North Expressway, the landscape changes from open spaces to urban developments. Arrive in Manila in the early evening, heading straight to your hotel with the rest of the day at your leisure

Day 5: Manila

Location: Manila

Accommodation Name: resort

Meals Included: Breakfast

Manila - Bohol. After breakfast, you have an early checkout, with a transfer to the airport for your included flight to Panglao Island, Bohol. Upon arrival, you will transfer to your resort. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, enjoying the beach, swimming, or indulging in a spa treatment.

Day 6: Bohol

Location: Bohol

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before your pickup for today's Bohol tour, which includes lunch.

Start your day at the Philippine Tarsier Foundation in Corella to see the smallest primate in the world, the tarsier, in its natural habitat. Observe these rare, nocturnal creatures in their natural habitat and be amazed by their agility as they move about, leaping from one tree to the other. Next, you will stop at the historical Blood Compact site in Baclayon, where Spain’s Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and Datu Sikatuna, a native chieftain sealed their friendship with a symbolic drink.

You will then visit the centuries-old stone church in Baclayon, housing a museum with religious art and church music inscribed in Latin on animal skins. Continue to the Bilar man-made forest of mahogany trees, leading to the iconic Chocolate Hills, which look like candy drops from a distance.

Next, hike to the viewpoint for stunning views before enjoying a river cruise on Loboc River aboard a floating restaurant, complete with lunch onboard. Return to your hotel by late afternoon.

Day 7: Bohol

Location: Bohol

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

You have the day at leisure or can opt for a Balicasag Island Tour or Pamilacan Island Tour.

If you would prefer a day to explore on your own, you could go snorkelling, diving, or simply relaxing on the beach. You could also explore local shops or sample traditional cuisine at nearby restaurants.

Day 8: Bohol

Location: Bohol

Accommodation Name: resort

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Bohol - El Nido. After check-out, you will be transferred to Panglao Airport for your included flight to El Nido, Palawan. You can enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, perhaps lounging by the beach or taking a scenic walk along the coastline.

Day 9-10: El Nido

Location: El Nido

Accommodation Name: resort

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Start day 9 with an early breakfast to catch the stunning sunrise over Bacuit Bay. You can visit the Small or Big Lagoons, where you can swim and kayak in crystal-clear waters surrounded by limestone formations. You will also explore another island while cruising the bay. Day 10 is completely free for you to unwind in El Nido.

Day 11: El Nido

Location: El Nido

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

El Nido - Catician - Boracay. after breakfast you will have a transfer back to El Nido Airport for your included flight to Caticlan, Boracay, scheduled for 12:15 PM (subject to change).

Upon arrival in Caticlan, transfer to Boracay Island. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, relax on the beach, enjoy water sports, or explore local shops.

Day 12-13: Boracay

Location: Boracay

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Spend two days enjoying Boracay at your leisure. Hit the beach, or consider water activities such as paddle boarding, windsurfing, or parasailing. You might also want to visit D'Mall for shopping and dining options.

Day 14: Boracay

Location: Boracay

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Boracay - Manila. Today after breakfast, you can enjoy your last free morning until your departure from Caticlan Airport for your included flight to Manila.

What's Included

13 breakfast, 7 lunches & 6 dinners
13 nights 3–5 star hotels
All relevant transfers and transportation in private air-conditioned vehicles
Airport departure transfer (for flight to Manila) on day 14
Services of a professional English-speaking guide for all included sightseeing and activities
5 economy class flights from Manila - Cauayan, Manila - Bohol, Bohol - El Nido, El Nido - Boracay and Caticlan - Manila
Entrance fees for included sightseeing
Guided sightseeing in Banaue, Sagada, Baguio, Bohol, El Nido & Boracay
Ride a local jeepney in Banaue
Visit to Kiangan village, Barangay Viewpoint in Banaue, Bontoc Museum, Bacolor town & San Guillermo Church
Cruises on the Loboc River and island hopping Cruise in El Nido
Free time in Bohol, El Nido, and Boracay
This private tour is operated by a trusted partner, not On The Go Tours

What's Not Included

International Flights and Visa

International flights and visa are not included.
Tipping

Tipping is an entirely personal gesture and is not included.
Optional Activities

Optional activities not listed as included are not covered.
EcoTourism Development Fee

An EcoTourism Development fee of PHP 400 per person to be paid locally in El Nido is not included.

Mode of Transport

Travel in private air-conditioned vehicles with all relevant transfers included, along with five economy class flights between key destinations, ensuring a seamless and comfortable journey.

Accommodation

Enjoy 13 nights in 3-5 star hotels, providing comfort and convenience throughout your journey across the Philippines.

Age Policy

Minimum age 5 for SEA private tours.

Check out our Q&As

What kind of activities can I participate in during the visit to Banaue?

In Banaue, you can explore the stunning scenery and rich culture by boarding a local jeepney. You will have the opportunity to marvel at the UNESCO-listed Banaue Rice Terraces, interact with villagers at the Banga-an Rice Terraces, and participate in a rice production demonstration, experiencing traditional rice pounding and planting.
What unique experiences are offered in Sagada?

In Sagada, you can visit the Sagada Weaving House to observe local women creating hand-woven products and try your hand at pottery at Sagada Pottery under the guidance of a resident artist. The area is also known for its stunning landscapes and the famous hanging coffins.
What can I expect to see and do in Bohol?

In Bohol, you will visit the Philippine Tarsier Foundation to see the world's smallest primates, explore the historical Blood Compact site, visit a centuries-old stone church in Baclayon, and enjoy a river cruise on the Loboc River with lunch onboard. You can also marvel at the iconic Chocolate Hills and explore the Bilar man-made forest.
What activities are available in El Nido?

In El Nido, you can enjoy island hopping, swimming, and kayaking in the Small and Big Lagoons. You will also have free time to unwind, relax on the beach, or take a scenic walk along the coastline.
What leisure activities can I enjoy in Boracay?

In Boracay, you can relax on the famous white sand beaches, indulge in water activities such as paddle boarding, windsurfing, or parasailing, and explore local shops and dining options at D'Mall.

Are there any additional fees I should be aware of during the tour?

Yes, there is an EcoTourism Development fee of PHP 400 per person to be paid locally in El Nido.
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
How long has the tour company been trading?

Since 1998
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

Yes

Reviews of this operator

Nicola Hodgkinson (Google Reviewer)

Recently returned from Greece, a...

07-May-2024

Recently returned from Greece, a 5 day tour with OTG. Unfortunately, I had a negative experience on day 2 where I needed local support to get me out of a tricky situation. Thank you to Alexandra Z from Hetco Tours in Athens for helping me continue on with the trip, to the Hotel Zafolia staffing team and to Danielle and team here in the UK for supporting me with the aftermath. Your kindness will not be forgotten and I will pay it forward. I've now booked 3 trips with yourselves and will continue to go back. Thank you all. Honestly, I am SO grateful. Blessings to you all. Nicola

Calvin

Wonderful experience

05-Jan-2023

Jamal is our tour guide. Right from the start, he created a group chat in whatsapp and if any issues to make sure we contact him. He was on the ball with every issue thrown at him. Luggage being left behind, stragglers wondered off in a different path, hotel room etc. He explains the various site along our route to give us a better understanding of the local cultures. We had a great time, thanks to Jamal.

Trustpilot

Norma Sullivan

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10-Sep-2021

The Land of Northern Lights tour was a triumph! My tour of Southern Iceland was absolutely wonderful. The venues chosen, the timing allotted at each venue and the variety of things to experience was nearly perfect. Our guide, "Thor", was smart, amusing, full of history and anecdotal stories as well as being incredibly hospitable and helpful. This small group experience was my first, but not my last thanks to On the Go.

Trawls (Google Reviewer)

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05-Feb-2024

On The Go Tours Sri Lanka was an incredible experience that was made even better by our tour guide Akthar. He was incredibly knowledgeable about his country and he loved sharing it with us. The tour covers a wide range of activities so you can truly experience what Sri Lanka is all about. The beautiful 4-5 star hotels at the end of every day was an absolute bonus. Thanks for a great trip OTGT I’m sure this won’t be my last

Xtreme Floor Care (Google Reviewer)

Traveled through Egypt with On...

30-Nov-2023

Traveled through Egypt with On the Go Tours, professional service, very informative and helpful tour guides. The choice of hotels was excellent... Definitely recommend this company

Gavin Harrigan

King Tutankhamun 10 day tour of Egypt

16-Sep-2021

I have just returned from my tour with On The Go and it was an amazing trip! From arriving at the airport and meeting the OTG representative, everything was well organised and hassle free. Our tour guide was Amir. He is awesome!! From the beginning he was so friendly and enthusiastic about showing us around Egypt, giving us loads of information at each place and time to explore ourselves. Learnt so much from him about this fascinating place, and he was always happy to answer more questions. The trip itself was amazing. There's lots of travelling on this trip, but it's really not too bad, and the sights you see when you get to where you are going are worth it. I'm not a big fan of boats, but the Felluca ride across the Nile was pretty fun too. On the first day I also did the optional tour of Cairo with Ahmed Helal - another excellent guide from OTG. It's worth doing this add on as you don't spend much time in Cairo, and you go to three very different places. I'm so glad that I decided to do this trip. It was just ace. If you're thinking about it too, you should probably just book it. And hopefully you get Amir as your guide.

Paul Kelly (Google Reviewer)

TOTALLY MOROCCO We booked a 9...

26-Feb-2023

TOTALLY MOROCCO We booked a 9 day tour of Morocco visiting many main cities and places of interest. The coach was very comfortable and we felt safe with the driver Suliman. The guide was Hicham Touraouine and he was fantastic. He spoke perfect English as well as French, Arabic and Berber. He was so kind and considerate and made a good tour great. We particularly enjoyed ‘glamming in the Sahara Desert. So much to see and do and great food and company. We would definitely use On The Go Tours again, especially if Hicham was the guide. Paul & Penny

Joyce Heitler (Google Reviewer)

I would give this tour...

09-May-2024

I would give this tour group no stars if possible. The tour was not guaranteed but they did not inform me when I booked and they did not have enough people. Way after I booked they said I needed a doctors letter because I was over 70. Also way after booking I was informed I needed travel insurance. They knew my age when I booked. They would not refund my tour even though it was 4 months away.

Sarah Paterson (Google Reviewer)

Terrible tour of India. For...

27-Dec-2023

Terrible tour of India. For some reason On the Go hadn't realised that my room mate had booked her own room for the first night of tour. So the hotel in Delhi had tried to put me in her room after midnight, by wheeling in an extra bed. She went Crazy!! I then had to sit in hotel reception for hours. While the tour guide said he couldn't find me a room. Throughout the tour the guide consistently ask me and my room mate for money for my room, causing more friction between us. Don't book with this company had the worst experience ever. Go with Intrepid or G Adventure

brandy hoffman (Google Reviewer)

I had used them once...

09-Aug-2023

I had used them once before and loved them. I decided to try them again for a Baltic tour not knowing that they put me on another Tour group- Baltic vision. Loved that tour but was not impressed they marked up the cost for me over 100%. I understand taking some for yourself because of paperwork, but over double the cost everyone else paid on the tour. Just double check before you book with them that you’re not over paying.

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~~$6275~~ $5977