Philippines Adventure

You are free to arrive at anytime on Day 1. Please check with reception to confirm the time of your group meeting (this is usually 6pm) this evening. At this meeting your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will introduce you to your fellow adventurers, sight your travel insurance and run over the logistics of the trip before taking you out for an optional local dinner.

Located on the Eastern shores of Manila Bay, this is the most densely populated city in the world. The history of Manila dates back to the 10th Century when thriving trade with the Chinese helped create what later became known as the 'Pearl of the Orient'. Over 300 years of Spanish colonisation from the 16th Century, during which the city was named Intramuros, lent an indelible Mediterranean flavour. Intense fighting took place here during the Second World War but Manila recovered and today is a thriving, modern metropolis. Intriguing images of its exotic, complex and turbulent past still remain around every corner though.

On day 2 we explore Manila with our local guide visiting Salcedo Community Market, the 16th Century Hispanic city of Intramuros, Rizal Park and Monument, the Philippine Geodetic Map and Fort Santiago. You also have the option of visiting other sites such as the nearby Manila Ocean Park, The Jelly Museum or perhaps experience a fish spa! This evening we transfer to the public bus station to board our overnight bus to Banaue.

On arrival in Banaue we breakfast and stock up on provisions before heading off into the wild in our private local Jeepney. Passing by stunning, World Heritage listed, 2000 year old rice terraces we arrive after 90 minutes at Batad saddle point where we commence our 1 hour trek to Batad Village (porters are available should you require at USD14pp). After dropping off our luggage at our local Inn we continue on to magical Tappia Falls for lunch and a refreshing dip. This evening we are treated to total Northern Luzon cultural immersion with a local dinner, tribal dancing and ritual songs.

We begin the morning of Day 4 with a native breakfast and then trek to Bang An junction for more incredible views of rice terraces reaching up into the clouds. After returning in our Jeepney to Banaue we get the chance to freshen up and have dinner before our overnight bus to Manila.

After breakfast in Manila and picking up our left luggage from the hotel, we board our 1 hr domestic flight to Legazpi at the far south of the Luzon Peninsula. Legazpi lies at the foot of the perfectly formed volcano, Mt Mayon (2462m), and this breathtaking view remains with us during our tour of the city and the Lignion Hills. We then transfer to our hotel at Donsol on the southern coastline. Our included dinner tonight takes place amongst masses of twinkling fireflies that dart through the trees lining the riverbank.

Donsol was largely unheard of by the surrounding world until a little over 10 year ago when it was discovered that large numbers of majestic whale sharks passed through these waters every year. Following breakfast, take the chance to head out to see experience these placid wonders of the deep first hand. Snorkeling alongside these gentle giants is truly a moment that you will never forget. You may want to bring an underwater camera!

Another short flight south gives us the opportunity to spend a night in the energetic city of Cebu. The busiest port in the Philippines, Cebu City is a sea of color and excitement with all the facilities and diversity you could desire. Walk through one of the massive shopping malls, try some of the famous international cuisine and why not head to a local bar tonight to listen to a live band. The Philippines exports more live singers and bands to the world than any other nation, and many of these bands make their names in Cebu.

Cebu is the gateway to the Vasaya Islands and has served as an active port before the arrival of the Portuguese in the 16th Century. Our experienced local guide, will show you the best parts of the city and explain many of the fascinating aspects of the kaleidoscope that surrounds you.

After a Jeepney ride to the port this morning we board the fast ferry out to the island of Bohol, alighting at the capital of Tagbilaran. From there our private transfer will whisk you off to your resort on Panglao Island and then it's time for some rest and relaxation. The sand on Panglao Island is so fine that it could be mistaken for melted white chocolate, and the water is crystal blue. This evening your CEO will take you out to for an included dinner where you can sample some of the fresh, mouth watering seafood the island is famed for.

Day 9 we head over to Bohol for our day trip to the scenic Chocolate Hills and your Loay River cruise. Keep your eyes peeled as you may be lucky enough to spot the world's smallest primate: The tiny, bug eyed Tarsier.

On the morning of Day 10 we retrace our steps to Cebu to connect with our short flight to Caticlan. We then take a boat to beautiful Boracay, globally renowned as a tropical paradise and a mecca for culinary delights. The next few days are yours to swim, snorkel and dive the warm, clear, turquoise waters and relax on the pristine white sandy beaches of this tropical paradise. Beach and water sports abound here for the energetic as well and the nightlife provides an opportunity for those who wish to let their hair down. Sit back and relax sipping a tasty fruit shake or cocktail or head out to experience the amazingly rich marine life of the surrounding reefs. Head to the back beach for some quiet time, watch the locals fire-twirl at night and rejuvenate yourself with a massage on the beach. Fishing, sailing, horseback riding, zip-lining, kite-boarding or laying back and doing absolutely nothing at all, the choice is yours.

Please note that all flights flying in and out of Caticlan Airport have a luggage restriction of 10 kilograms.

Today we fly back to the vibrant capital of Manila for last minute shopping and our final night dinner. Manila is separated into several areas for you to explore, so why not head to Quezon City or Malate to see something a little bit different. Take a walk through Rizal Park or try to conquer the artform of riding a jeepney in Manila. Remember to take your hotel card with you, so that you can always get back to where you started.

You can depart at any time today.
We look forward to receiving your evaluation regarding this tour itinerary and your CEOs performance. We value your input into what we could improve to make this trip even better and of course love hearing about what we are already doing well! You will be sent a post tour email on your return with details on how to go in line and fill in this simple form. Thank you so much in advance.