Philippines Tour Packages: 10 Day Island Hopping Tour

Highlights of the Trip 

This 10 day Philippines trip package of Islands and beaches gives a real taste of paradise that would delight even the hard to please beach hunters out there. The highlights of this holiday tour include, Fort Santiago, Roxas Boulevard, San Agustin Church, Mount Tapias for its stunning views of Coron Town, Maquinit hot springs, Banol Beach, Twin Lakes, Caluit Island and its impressive wildlife sanctuary, Oslob Whale Shark swimming experience, Spanish colonial towns, Heritage parks, museums, Cebu City and the famous Magellan Cross, Corella Tarsier Monkey sanctuary, the out of this world Chocolate Hills, Boat cruises, dolphin watching and dances by local tribes along the Loboc River.

You might like to consider our flight-only package Manila, Philippines 10-Day Flight-only Package (asiara-holidays.com) which aligns seamlessly with this 10-day tour.

Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit 

Manila

• Manila Bay: A historical, cultural, and economic hub of the country.
• Boxas Boulevard: A vibrant and bustling street, known as one of the main commercial and cultural hubs of the city.
• Fort Santiago: This fort was once a military defense structure built by Spanish conquistador, Miguel López de Legazpi, in the 16th century.
• San Agustin Church: The oldest stone church in the country. It is a symbol of perseverance and resilience, having survived numerous fires, earthquakes, and wars throughout its more than 400 years of existence.

Busuanga/Coron

• Town Plaza: A charming and picturesque town square located in the heart of Coron.
• Mount Tapyas Viewing Deck: Aside from its natural beauty, the viewing deck also offers a glimpse into Coron’s history and culture.

Calauit Island

Oslob

• Oslob Museum: Thee museum houses a collection of artifacts, artworks, and historical memorabilia that showcase the town’s past.
• Spanish Colonial Ruins: These ruins stand as a testimony of the Spanish colonisation that lasted for more than 300 years in the country.
• Old Church: This was designed in the Spanish colonial style with its distinctive coral stone walls and a baroque façade.

Cebu City

• Magellan Cross: The cross is said to be the exact spot where Ferdinand Magellan, the Portuguese explorer, planted a cross in 1521 to signify the start of Christianity in the country.
• Basilica del Santo Niño: A grand and impressive structure that stands as a testament to the enduring faith and devotion of the Filipino people. 
• Fort San Pedro: Considered to be the oldest and smallest fort in the Philippines.
• Yap San Diego Ancestral House: Built in the late 17th century, this ancestral house has been preserved for generations and is a testament to the country’s long history and diverse influences.

Bohol

• Baclayon Church: Considered as one of the oldest churches in the country, it holds a significant role in Philippine history and the lives of the locals living in Baclayon.
• Butterfly Farm: Marvel at the beauty of butterflies up close. The farm covers an area of two hectares and is home to over 50 different species of butterflies, making it one of the largest butterfly farms in Asia.
• Blood Compact Shrine: Stands as a symbol of friendship, cooperation, and unity between two different cultures.

Cultural Experiences & Activities of this Holiday

Maquinit Hot Spring: Surrounded by towering trees and overlooking the stunning blue waters of the ocean, this natural hot spring is a must-visit for anyone seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. The hot spring is said to have healing properties due to its high mineral content, making it not only a popular tourist destination but also a favourite among the locals for its therapeutic benefits. The water in the hot spring is sourced from natural underground springs, where it is then heated by volcanic rocks, creating a warm and soothing temperature.

Calauit Island: One of the main features of Calauit Island is its vast array of wildlife. The island is home to more than 70 species of animals including giraffes, zebras, elands, impalas, and various types of deer. These animals were bought to the island in the 1970s as part of a conservation program by the Philippine government. These animals were originally from Africa and were facing extinction due to hunting and loss of habitat. Today, visitors can see these majestic animals roaming freely in their natural habitat, making it a one-of-a-kind experience.

Oslob Whale Sharks: The town of Oslob has implemented a feeding program for the whale sharks, providing them with small amounts of food to ensure their presence in the area. As a result, these creatures can be seen almost every day, making it easier for tourists to have an up-close encounter with them. With their massive size ranging from 5-12 meters, it’s no wonder that seeing them up close can be an awe-inspiring experience.

Chocolate Hills Tour: The Chocolate Hills in the Philippines is a breathtaking natural sight that has become an iconic attraction in the country. These unique geological formations, made up of over 1,000 perfectly symmetrical mounds, are scattered across the provinces of Bohol, Siquijor, and the island of Camiguin. The hills, which are covered in green grass during the rainy season and turn a deep brown in the dry season, are said to resemble a giant box of chocolates, hence the name.

Tarsier Monkey: One of the most striking physical features of the Tarsier Monkey is its elongated fingers, which are almost as long as its body. These fingers, along with its specialised wrists, help them to hunt for prey and catch insects, their main source of food. Their keen sense of hearing and sharp claws also aid them in catching prey, as well as in moving swiftly and gracefully through the trees.

Local Cuisine and Traditional Dishes to try while in the Philippines

During this tour, numerous opportunities will arise for you to savour the authentic local cuisine, whether from the menus of included meals or from your own culinary exploration during your free time in the itinerary. Indulge in traditional dishes that showcase the rich flavours of the region, including Adobo – often considered the national dish of the Philippines, and for good reason. This simple yet flavourful dish is made by marinating meat (usually chicken or pork) in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and various spices. Another beloved dish is sinigang, a sour soup made with tamarind as its base. It can be made with various meats such as pork, shrimp, or fish, and is typically served with a generous amount of vegetables.

Water-based Activities and Cruises

Island Hopping Tours. Explore CYC, Banol Beach, Kayangan Lake, Twin lakes and lagoons.

Ferry to Tagbilaran and Bohol country.

Loboc River for a floating restaurant lunch and boat cruise along the river.

Dolphin watching cruise of Pamilacan Island.

Accommodation of this Tour

Manila: Manila Hotel in a Grand Deluxe Room

Bacau: Bacau Bay Resort in a Deluxe Room

Cebu: Quest Hotel Cebu in a Deluxe Room

Bohol: Bohol Beach Club in a Deluxe Green Room

To discover more of our Philippines tour packages or Philippines Island holiday packages, explore our website or contact us on +01473356000 or enquiry@asiara-holidays.com.

Itinerary

Day 1: Manila Arrival & Tour

Arrival in Manila and hotel transfer. Afternoon city tour includes Manila Bay, historic Boxas Boulevard, and Rizal Park. Then onto Intramuros with Fort Santiago, Casa Manila, and San Agustin Church.

✓ Breakfast

Day 2: Busuanga Flight, Corona Transfer & Tour

After Breakfast you’ll have a transfer flight to Busuanga. Transfer to Bacua Resort hotel. Afternoon tour of Coron town with its Plaza, Lualhati Park, and then a climb to Mount Tapias to have a stunning 360-degree view of Coron town and its surrounding waterways. There’s a welcome seawater hot spring called Maquinit Springs.

✓ Breakfast

Day 3: Island Hopping Tour

Breakfast will fuel you up for a day of island hopping. A boat tour will take you to enjoy the locations of CYC, Banol Beach, Kayangan Lake, Twin lakes and lagoons.

Return to hotel late afternoon and free time for the remainder of the day.

✓ Breakfast and Lunch.

Day 4: Caluit Island Transfer & Wildlife Tour

Breakfast at the hotel will be followed by departure for Calauit Island, by land and boat. The island is a designated game preserve and wildlife sanctuary where many animals can live naturally with minimal human contact. There are giraffe, zebras, deer, porcupines, wild boars, and White eagles, to name a few. Transfer to Cebu City for overnight stay.

✓ Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5: Oslob Tour & Whale Shark Experience

After breakfast you’ll be treated to a full day tour of Oslob and the gentle Whale Sharks. Interaction with the Whale Sharks will be supplied by local fisherman that can pinpoint their exact locations in the water with impressive ease. After the tour there will be a stop at Oslob Heritage Park to visit the Spanish colonial ruins, watch tower, the military quarter, old church, and Oslob Museum.Late transfer back to Cebu City.

✓ Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6: Cebu City Tour & Bohol Transfer

Breakfast will be followed by a morning tour of Cebu City including Magellan Cross, Basilica del Santo Niño, Fort San Pedro, Yap San Diego Ancestral House, and Jesuit House. Transfer to the Seaport to catch the ferry to Tagbilaran and Bohol country. Evening arrival at Bohol Beach Club.

✓ Breakfast

Day 7: Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Monkey & Bohol Countryside Tour

After breakfast you’ll depart for Carmen Town and the Chocolate Hills Tour. On the way stop by Corella to see the Tarsier Monkey. On arrival you’ll be encouraged to walk up a hill, the sight once you reach the top will be a thousand hills called Chocolate Hills, for their brown colour in the warmer weather. After enjoying the peacefulness of the lush landscape drive to Loboc River for a floating restaurant lunch and boat cruise along the river. Local dances and songs by children and women will await your arrival. See Baclayon Church, Butterfly farm and the Blood Compact Shrine. Transfer back to Bohol Beach Club.

✓ Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8: Free Time in Bohol Beach Club Area

Free day to explore at your leisure.

✓ Breakfast

Day 9: Cruise of Pamilacan Island & Fishing Tour

Today you’ll enjoy a dolphin watching cruise of Pamilacan Island, a short walking tour of the island and its fishing community, snorkelling and lunch on the island.

✓ Breakfast and Lunch

Day 10: Manila Transfer & Departure Flight

After Breakfast you’ll be transferred to Manila for your outbound flight home.

✓ Breakfast

To discover more of our Philippines tour packages or Philippines Island holiday packages, explore our website or contact us on +01473356000 or enquiry@asiara-holidays.com.

Price

£1,983

– Price per person based on two-people group size.

– The price is subject to availability, based on twin or double room sharing.

– Peak season surcharges may apply during local public holidays.

Please note, this package is an example of our many exciting daily offers. We are happy to check up-to-date prices for the dates and times that suit you for your perfect package holiday, or to tailor or upgrade elements of any package. Please feel free to contact us at enquiry@asiara-holidays.com or call us on 01473 356 000.

Tour Map

Tour Summary

Day 1: Arrival in Manila, followed by a city tour including Manila Bay, Roxas Boulevard, Rizal Park, and Intramuros.

Day 2: Transfer flight to Busuanga, Coron town tour, including Plaza, Lualhati Park, Mount Tapias climb, and Maquinit Springs.

Day 3: Island hopping tour to CYC, Banol Beach, Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoons, with free time in the afternoon.

Day 4: Transfer to Calauit Island for a wildlife tour, then transfer to Cebu City for an overnight stay.

Day 5: Oslob tour for a whale shark experience and visit to Oslob Heritage Park, then transfer back to Cebu City.

Day 6: Cebu City tour including Magellan Cross, Basilica del Santo Niño, Fort San Pedro, and transfer to Bohol Beach Club.

Day 7: Chocolate Hills and Tarsier Monkey tour, including Loboc River cruise, Baclayon Church, Butterfly Farm, and Blood Compact Shrine.

Day 8: Free day at Bohol Beach Club for leisure.

Day 9: Dolphin watching cruise at Pamilacan Island, fishing tour, and snorkeling with lunch on the island.

Day 10: Transfer to Manila for departure flight home.

FAQs

1. What is included in the Manila Arrival & Tour on Day 1?
   • The Manila arrival includes a hotel transfer, followed by a city tour covering Manila Bay, Roxas Boulevard, Rizal Park, and Intramuros.
2. What activities are included in the Island Hopping Tour on Day 3?
   • The Island Hopping Tour on Day 3 includes visits to CYC, Banol Beach, Kayangan Lake, and Twin Lagoons, with lunch provided.
3. Can you provide more details about the Whale Shark Experience on Day 5?
   • Day 5 offers a full-day tour of Oslob for a unique whale shark interaction experience, including a visit to Oslob Heritage Park and lunch.
4. What does the Cebu City Tour on Day 6 entail?
   • Day 6 includes a morning tour of Cebu City covering Magellan Cross, Basilica del Santo Niño, Fort San Pedro, Yap San Diego Ancestral House, and Jesuit House.
5. What attractions are part of the Chocolate Hills & Tarsier Monkey Tour on Day 7?
   • Day 7 features a tour of Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Monkey in Corella, Loboc River cruise, Baclayon Church, Butterfly Farm, and Blood Compact Shrine.
6. What activities are available during the free day at Bohol Beach Club on Day 8?
   • Day 8 offers a free day for guests to explore leisure activities at Bohol Beach Club at their own pace.
7. What can guests expect during the Dolphin Watching Cruise on Day 9?
   • Day 9 includes a dolphin watching cruise at Pamilacan Island, a walking tour of the island, snorkelling, fishing, and lunch.