Take In All the Philippines Has To Offer

Discover the Philippines on the private tour “From Highlands to Islands.” Start in Manila, then visit the breathtaking Banaue Rice Terraces and the charming town of Sagada. Relax on the pristine beaches of Puerto Princesa and El Nido, where you can kayak through clear lagoons and explore hidden waterfalls. With a personal guide and flexible schedule, this tour combines adventure and relaxation in stunning locations.

Min price per person
3480
Duration
15 Days

The Best Time To Visit

December to May

The best time to visit the Philippines is from December to May, during the dry season. This period offers cooler temperatures and less rainfall, ideal for beach activities and island hopping. December to February is particularly pleasant, while March to May can be warmer. The wet season from June to November brings increased rainfall and the potential for typhoons, making the dry months the best choice for an enjoyable experience

Enquire Today

Regions You’ll Visit

View map

Our Suggested Day By Day Itinerary

This tour can be fully personalised and upgrades are available.
the Philippines tailor-made holidays will be designed to suit your preferences.

PACKAGE DETAILS

Price Includes:

  • Return economy flights from UK London/Manchester/Birmingham. Contact us for flights quotation from different countries.
  • Excursions,
  • Entry fees,
  • Transport: Private A/C Car with Chauffeur Guide
  • Hotels: Mixture of Mid-range hotels on Breakfast Only & Half Board basis

EXPAND ALL

CLOSE ALL

Day 1 – Fly to Manila

Today you will start your Philippine adventure by flying to Manila International Airport.

Read More About Day 1

Day 2 – Manila

Welcome to Manila, the vibrant capital of the Philippines! Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is free for you to relax or explore the city at your leisure. Enjoy the bustling atmosphere or unwind and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

See more about day 2

Day 3 – Manila → Banaue

Depart for Banaue, traveling through the scenic Cagayan Valley and ascending into the majestic mountain ranges of the Cordillera. This region is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and is home to the famous Banaue Rice Terraces, often referred to as the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” Upon arrival in Banaue, the gateway to Mountain Province, check-in at the Banaue Hotel and enjoy an overnight stay, surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

See more about day 3

Day 4 – Banaue

After breakfast, board a traditional jeepney and head to Saddle, the starting point for the trek to Batad. Walk downhill through scenic mountain trails, arriving at a stunning viewpoint of amphitheatre-like rice terraces and the remote village of Batad. After lunch (at your own expense), explore the charming village, winding through narrow paths and rice paddies. Continue along the riverbank to the 25-metre Tappiya Waterfalls. If time allows, enjoy a refreshing swim in its natural pool before returning to the hotel. Overnight at Banaue Hotel.

In the afternoon you will explore Galle’s Dutch Fort on foot with Zain, a knowledgeable local guide. The Fort is the best example of a fortified city built by Europeans in South and Southeast Asia, showing the interaction between European architectural styles and South Asian traditions. The Galle Fort is a UNESCO world heritage site and the largest remaining fortress in Asia built by European occupiers. There are many boutique shops along the narrow streets of the Fort as well as antiques, art and craft shops. Other prominent landmarks in Galle include the natural harbour, the National Maritime Museum, St. Mary’s Cathedral founded by Jesuit priests, one of the main Shiva temples on the island. Galle offers a unique opportunity to create a visible demonstration of the conservation of its inheritance.

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

See more about day 4

Day 5 – Banaue → Sagada

After breakfast, embark on another overland journey through the mountainous region, pausing at viewpoints to capture memorable photos of the majestic rice terraces. In Bontoc, visit the ethnographic museum founded by Belgian sisters, showcasing artefacts and photos, including remnants of the Igorot headhunting era. Take a short stroll through the local market before continuing to Sagada, a peaceful highland village known for its cool climate and picturesque pine forests. Explore the famous caves with hanging coffins before checking in and spending the night in Sagada.

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

See more about day 5

Day 6 – Sagada → Baguio → Manila

Begin your day with a scenic drive through the mountains, taking in the sweeping views of vegetable terraces and villages dotting the landscape. Your first stop is Mt. Timbak, where you’ll witness the Igorot burial sites, home to the famous mummies. Afterwards, head to Baguio, the Philippines’ summer capital, for a brief city tour and a visit to the vibrant market. Continue your journey through the Central Plains of Luzon, reaching the outskirts of Manila in the evening.

 

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

See more about day 6

Day 7 – Manila → Pagsanjan → Manila

After breakfast, embark on a two-and-a-half-hour drive south of Manila to the enchanting town of Pagsanjan, Laguna. Experience the thrill of shooting the rapids on traditional dugout canoes, surrounded by the wonders of nature. Prepare to board a native banca, expertly navigated by a skilled boatman, as you journey through steep gorges and lush tropical vegetation. Your ultimate destination is the breathtaking Pagsanjan Falls. Here, you can take a refreshing swim or hop on a bamboo raft to explore the cave nestled behind the cascading waters. Return to your hotel in the mid-afternoon for an overnight stay.

 

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

See more about day 7

Day 8 – Manila → Puerto Princesa

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Puerto Princesa. Upon arrival, you will be taken to your hotel, where you can unwind and relax. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Overnight accommodation is provided.

 

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

See more about day 8

Day 9 – Puerto Princesa

After breakfast, embark on a journey to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This remarkable location is home to the longest navigable underground river in the world, stretching an impressive 8.2 km. As you explore, you’ll be surrounded by lush vegetation and a rich diversity of wildlife, making it a truly unique experience. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Puerto Princesa for an overnight stay.

 

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

See more about day 9

Day 10 – Puerto Princesa → El Nido

After breakfast, set off on a scenic five-hour drive to El Nido. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes along the way before arriving at your overnight accommodation.

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

See more about day 10

Day 11 – El Nido

Enjoy breakfast before embarking on a day of exploration filled with stunning lagoons, pristine beaches, and excellent snorkelling spots. Swim in crystal-clear waters as you admire vibrant corals and the diverse marine life teeming with hundreds of fish species.

Your adventure will take you to Miniloc Island, where you’ll visit the breathtaking Big Lagoon and the enchanting Secret Lagoon—ideal for swimming and snorkelling. Next, you’ll head to Shimizu Island, perfect for snorkelling among colourful corals or relaxing on the soft white sand beach. This is often where your boat will pause for lunch.

Surrounded by majestic limestone cliffs draped in lush vegetation, you’ll also stop at Payong-Payong Beach for a delightful picnic. As the day winds down, the tour will conclude at Seven Commando Beach, renowned for its long stretch of white sand. Keep an eye out for sea turtles while snorkelling here!

You’ll return to your hotel in the mid-afternoon for your overnight accommodation.

 

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

See more about day 11

Day 12 – El Nido

After breakfast, embark on an unforgettable journey to explore stunning islands, beaches, and exceptional snorkelling spots. Your first stop will be the breathtaking Bacuit Archipelago, where you’ll visit Helicopter Island, famous for its unique shape, and the picturesque Tapiutan Island.

Next, you’ll discover the enchanting Matinloc Shrine, a beautiful white sand and rocky beach that once hosted a convent and school. You’ll have the opportunity to wander around this charming, historic site.

After a delightful lunch, your adventure continues to three remarkable beaches: Secret Beach and Hidden Beach. We won’t reveal all the details about these hidden gems, as we don’t want to spoil the surprise. However, rest assured that their names reflect their secluded beauty and tranquil charm.

You’ll return to your hotel in the mid-afternoon for a well-deserved overnight stay.

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

See more about day 12

Day 13 – El Nido → Manila

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast this morning. You’ll have the day free until check-out, allowing you to relax or explore at your own pace. Afterward, you’ll transfer to the domestic airport for your flight back to Manila.

Upon your arrival in Manila, you’ll be greeted by an airport representative who will assist you with your transfer to your hotel. Check in and settle in for your overnight accommodation.

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

See more about day 13

Day 14 – Manila

After breakfast, check out of the hotel and meet your guide for lunch at a local restaurant (at your own expense). Following lunch, embark on a tour of Manila and its historical landmarks, where you can delve into the city’s rich past.

Your journey begins along the scenic Roxas Boulevard, passing through the tranquil Rizal Park en route to the “Walled City” of Intramuros. Here, you’ll discover ancient walls, the ruins of churches, and various relics from the era of Spanish conquistadors. Stroll along the cobbled streets to the San Agustin Church, the oldest stone church in the Philippines.

The tour will conclude with a visit to Fort Santiago, a Spanish fortress that once guarded the entrance to Manila’s Pasig River. This historic site is where our national hero, Jose Rizal, spent his final days and penned his poignant poem “My Last Farewell.”

Finally, explore Binondo, the oldest Chinatown in the world, located just across the river from Intramuros. This area was strategically positioned so that colonial rulers could keep a close watch on their migrant subjects.

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

See more about day 14

Day 15 – Manila → Departure

You will be transferred to Manila Airport to fly home.

 

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

Show More

Tailor Your Tour -

Potential Highlights

  • Banaue Rice Terraces
  • Tappiya Waterfalls
  • Sagada Hanging Coffins
  • Pagsanjan Falls Adventure
  • Puerto Princesa Underground River
  • Island Hopping in El Nido
  • Helicopter Island Visit
  • Baguio City Tour
  • Intramuros Exploration

Experience All The Philippines Has To Offer

Our itineraries are purely suggestions. Activities you want to experience? Wildlife you wish to see? We can create a bespoke itinerary, just for you.

Discover Experiences

Tailor Your Tour

Unsure Where To Start?

Let’s talk about your Earth Trip

Our travel specialists are seasoned explorers with deep local insights. Whether it’s uncovering hidden gems or planning immersive cultural experiences, we design trips that go beyond the ordinary. Get in touch today!

Request A Video Meeting

Speak to our Philippines travel expert today

Aleem Raheem

Speak to our Philippines travel expert today

Aleem Raheem

Tailor Your Tour -

Potential Highlights

  • Banaue Rice Terraces
  • Tappiya Waterfalls
  • Sagada Hanging Coffins
  • Pagsanjan Falls Adventure
  • Puerto Princesa Underground River
  • Island Hopping in El Nido
  • Helicopter Island Visit
  • Baguio City Tour
  • Intramuros Exploration

Experience All The Philippines Has To Offer

Our itineraries are purely suggestions. Activities you want to experience? Wildlife you wish to see? We can create a bespoke itinerary, just for you.

Discover Experiences

Tailor Your Tour