Overview
Uncover the Philippines, bursting with vibrant culture and warm hospitality. Stitched together from over 7000 islands, this tropical country is full of rich and diverse history. The indigenous tribes, the arrival of Islam and Hinduism, and immigration from other Asian countries have all shaped the Philippines of the present. As a result of these influences, there is no shortage of what you can choose to do. From swimming with butanding (whale sharks) in Oslob to visiting Manila’s Chinatown, immerse yourself in the welcoming embrace of the Philippines. Journey Pace: Active

Tour Details

DEPARTURE INFORMATION

Starts any day. January to December

7 days from $3295.00

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Itinerary
Day 1

Arrive Manila, Philippines

Welcome to the Philippines. You are met on arrival in Manila, and transferred to your luxury hotel located in Makati City. Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.

Day 2

Manila & New Metropolis Sightseeing

After breakfast you will meet your guide for a private tour of Manila and the New Metropolis. Travel back in time to the Spanish Colonial era and it’s walled city. You will drive along Roxas Boulevard to Intramuros with a short stop at LUNETA or the Rizal Park and monument where the National Hero was condemned for rebelling against the Spanish Government. You will visit San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the nostalgic Intramuros. Here, the existing trompe L’oeil interior painting was done in the late 19th century that influenced the interior painting of many Philippine churches. It also boast of the only examples in the country of a barrel vault, dome, and arched vestibules supporting it choir loft, all made of stone. Across from this is the Casa Manila, a museum reflecting the lifestyle of the Filipino-Spanish elite during the 19th century. You will relish the tales and trappings of power in the Palacio del Gobernador. Linger at Fort Santiago, the former Spanish military garrison and learn of its secrets and stories.

After lunch, head back to Manila, visiting Binondo, a district in Manila often referred to as the City’s China Town, the oldest china town in the world established in 1594. See the Binondo Church also known as Minor Basilica of St. Lorenzo Ruiz and our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish. You will continue to Ongpin Street, a home to different herbal stores as well as Chinese medicines, groceries and jewelry stores. Walk towards a narrow and charming street of Carvajal, home to a plethora of stalls and vendors selling everything from fruits to sea cucumbers and every little delicacy in between.

Then visit the second oldest cemetery in Manila, The Chinese Cemetery. It was designated as the resting place for the Chinese citizens who were denied burial in Catholic cemeteries during the Spanish colonial period. Every tomb is unique; every tomb has its story to tell. Continue exploring with a drive to La Loma passing by a narrow road lined with rows upon rows of roast suckling pig or lechon cooked over lived charcoal which is usually serve as a main entrée in most Filipino celebration. To finish the day, you will head to Quiapo, referred to as the old downtown of Manila, home of the Quiapo Church, where the feast of the Black Nazarene is held with millions of people attending. Quiapo has also made a name for itself as a place for marketplace bargain hunting. You will have some time to explore before returning to you hotel. (B)

Day 3

Taal Trekking Excursion

Begin today with an early drive to the south side of Metro Manila to see the Taal Volcano and enjoy a Heritage tour. After a 2-hour drive, you will reach the dock and be transport via motorized boat to the Volcano Island. Once you arrive, you will take a horse ride up and then walk to the crater lake with an option to swim in the sulphuric waters. Afterwards you will return to Crater Lake Resort to freshen up before returning by motorized boat to Talisay Batangas to enjoy lunch.

After lunch, proceed to the town of Taal, famous for its old ancestral houses. The Poblacion is declared a heritage town designated as a National Landmark. Your guide will introduce to you the town’s local products and delicacies which include weaving and embroidery of Barong and camisa made from Piña. You will also see local items such as Balisong (fan knife) and other food treats. You will walk by some heritage houses and churches before returning to Manila for an evening at leisure. (B, L)

Day 4

Manila to Cebu & Sightseeing

This morning is yours at leisure before heading to the airport for your flight to Cebu.

Upon arrival in Cebu, you will have a brief tour of Cebu City and Mactan City. You will visit the public market and a well-known local furniture showroom, that showcases unique designs of home furnitures, integrating locally sourced materials with innovative handmade production processes.

You will enjoy an authentic lunch before heading to your hotel for check-in and an evening at leisure. (B,L)

Day 5

Oslob Excursion

Today will begin early as you depart for Oslob, about 4 hours away. You will arrive in Oslob and learn about the butanding (whale shark) in a very personal encounter. After a short briefing, you will enter the water to see the whaleshark, a slow-moving filter feeding shark and the largest known fish species found in tropical waters with a lifespan of about 70 years. Despite its size, the whale shark is very docile and does not pose a danger to humans. You may even be able to catch a ride! Afterwards you will be able to freshen up in rustic rooms before heading to the Bodos Bar at the BBB Alcoy for a delicious lunch.

After lunch, you will depart for the Tumalog Falls. Here you will walk a few minutes to the waterfalls with imposing cliffs and lush jungle. You will spend some time here before returning to your hotel. (B,L)

Day 6

SIC Countryside tour

Today, travel into the countryside to Bohol to see the famous Chocolate Hills. You will also spend time at the Tarsier Sanctuary. You will enjoy an authentic lunch on a bamboo raft ride along the Loboc River. In the evening you will return to your hotel for an evening at leisure. (B,L)

Day 7

Cebu to Manila & Depart

After a morning at leisure, you are taken to the Cebu airport for your flight to Manila. Upon arrival, you will be met and assisted to your departing flight home or on to your next destination. (B)

Accommodations

The Peninsula Manila, Manila

For over 38 years, The Peninsula Manila has set the benchmark for luxury and sophistication. Known affectionately as the “Jewel in the Capital’s Crown” for its legendary status and grand presence in the heart of Makati City. A luxurious haven of comfort, quality service and fine cuisine, the hotel is as much a favourite with discerning locals as it is with visitors. The Peninsula Manila rooms and suites are styled with timeless and elegant Filipino elements where guests can relax in an oasis of luxurious natural materials and fabrics with superlative city views.

Shangri-La Mactan Resort & Spa, Cebu

The Shangri-La Mactan Resort & Spa offers luxurious rooms and suites with an “ocean to shore” theme that feature hues reminiscent of warm golden sand and fresh turquoise ocean waters and integrates seamlessly with the resort’s existing structure and seaside location. Highlighting fine Philippine craftsmanship, the refreshed rooms and suites boast shell headboards, timber flooring, and decorative fretwork lamps that incorporate sumptuous local materials, such as teak and mother of pearl. In addition, tropical elements, including coral and seashells, inspire tasteful pieces that accent the rooms.