The Best of the Philippines

Saturday 14 November

A morning departure on Qantas. Change planes in Sydney and arrive Manila late afternoon. On arrival at Ninoy Aquino International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Set on the shores of Manila Bay, Manila is a vibrant capital city blending Spanish colonial heritage, Asian influences and modern energy. 

Sunday 15 November

Today enjoy a guided tour of Manila’s historic and cultural highlights. Explore Intramuros, the Spanish colonial “Walled City,” and visit Fort Santiago, one of the most significant historical sites in the country. Continue to the Cultural Centre of the Philippines, a hub for the performing arts and Filipino culture. Later stroll through lively local markets, offering a colourful glimpse into daily life. This evening enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.

Monday 16 November

Travel north through scenic countryside to Vigan, a beautifully preserved Spanish colonial town and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Famous for its cobblestone streets and traditional architecture, Vigan offers a fascinating step back in time.

Tuesday 17 November

Travel north through scenic countryside to Vigan, a beautifully preserved Spanish colonial town and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Famous for its cobblestone streets and traditional architecture, Vigan offers a fascinating step back in time.

Wednesday 18 November

Today journey deeper into the mountains to Sagada, a tranquil highland town known for its mystical caves and the famous hanging coffins, a unique burial tradition practiced by local communities for centuries.

Thursday 19 November

This morning explore Sagada’s fascinating burial caves before continuing through dramatic mountain landscapes to Banaue, home to one of the Philippines’ most remarkable sights – the legendary rice terraces.

Friday 20 November

Today visit Banga-an Village and the spectacular Banaue Rice Terraces, often referred to as the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” These terraces were carved into the mountains more than 2,000 years ago by the Ifugao people. Travel by private jeepney, a traditional Filipino mode of transport, before walking through the terraces and experiencing authentic village life.

Saturday 21 November

Return to Manila today with scenic stops along the way to admire the dramatic mountain landscapes of northern Luzon.

Sunday 22 November

After breakfast transfer to the airport for your flight to Bohol, one of the Philippines’ most picturesque islands. Arrive in Tagbilaran, the island’s capital, and transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure.

Monday 23 November

Explore Bohol’s highlights on a full-day tour. Visit Baclayon Church, the Man-Made Forest, Tarsier Sanctuary and the famous Chocolate Hills. Enjoy a scenic Loboc River cruise with lunch, then relax with High Tea at Amarela Resort. Evening at leisure

Tuesday 24 November

Travel by ferry to Cebu, the oldest city in the Philippines. After lunch enjoy a city tour including Fort San Pedro, Magellan’s Cross, the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, and the Taoist Temple. Later visit Carbon Market, a lively local marketplace known for offering “anything and everything”.

Wednesday 25 November

Today travel into the countryside to visit the spectacular Kawasan Falls. After a short walk through lush tropical forest you will arrive at the stunning turquoise pools beneath the cascading waterfalls. Enjoy time to swim in the refreshing waters before a relaxed picnic lunch in this beautiful natural setting. 

Thursday 26 November

Fly to Puerto Princesa in the province of Palawan, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful regions in the Philippines. This coastal city is the gateway to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Friday 27 November

Today experience one of the natural wonders of the world as you travel by boat to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. This extraordinary 8.2-kilometre underground river flows through a spectacular limestone cave system before reaching the sea. The park protects a unique mountain-to-sea ecosystem and is recognised as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature.

Saturday 28 November

Travel by road to El Nido, famous for its powdery white beaches, emerald waters, coral reefs and dramatic limestone cliffs. Arrive late afternoon and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Sunday 29 November

Today enjoy an unforgettable island-hopping adventure through the breathtaking Bacuit Archipelago. Travel by motorboat to visit highlights such as Big Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Secret Lagoon, and Seven Commandos Beach. You may opt to swim, snorkel or just relax and enjoy the view.

Monday 30 November

A relaxed morning to take a final swim before flying back to Manila. Farewell Dinner tonight.

Tuesday 01 December

The morning is free for shopping or exploring the city, the perfect opportunity to pick up souvenirs and enjoy your final day in the Philippines. Transfer to the airport for an evening departure on Qantas. 

Wednesday 02 December

Change planes in Brisbane and arrive Auckland early afternoon.