Family getaway on the most beautiful islands of the Philippines: Siquijor, Bohol & Palawan
Three Philippine islands with crystalline waters where sea turtles, tarsiers and karst formations reveal their secrets.
Duration
12 days
Ideal seasons
Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, Nov, Dec
Style
Itinerant travel
Comfort
Charm & Character
Travelers
Family, Couple, Solo
The spirit of travel
In this three-week circuit through the Philippines, you explore the fascinating contrasts of the archipelago, between volcanic landscapes, sculpted rice fields and islands with crystal-clear waters. Your journey begins on the main island of Luzon, where you discover the terraced rice fields of Banaue, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the mountainous panoramas that lead to the acidic lake of the Pinatubo volcano.
You then set course for Palawan, for a stay punctuated by pristine beaches and lagoons with shades of blue, between the natural wonders of Coron and the emblematic karst formations of El Nido.
The end of your journey takes you to the heart of the Visayas, where Bohol and Siquijor reveal another facet of the Philippines, between generous nature, marine life and a peaceful island atmosphere.
An itinerary designed to offer an authentic discovery of the archipelago, blending gentle adventure, relaxation and immersion in the richness of its landscapes.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Arrival in Manila: settling into the vibrant Makati district
Aéroport international de Manille → Manille
Welcome to the Philippines! After your long flight, you take your first steps into this fascinating archipelago, ready to discover its natural and cultural diversity.
Once entry formalities are completed and your luggage collected, your driver greets you warmly. He accompanies you to your hotel located in the heart of Makati, the modern and dynamic district of Manila, where shopping centers, restaurants and lively urban life blend together.
If your arrival is early morning and you wish to offer activities for children, you can take a detour to FantasyWorld, a gaming hall located in the One Ayala shopping center, accessible in about ten minutes by taxi from your accommodation. A pleasant way to begin your discovery of the city at a gentle pace.
Flight to Siquijor and first immersion in the mystical island
Your day begins with a private transfer to the airport, where you board a domestic flight of approximately 1h30 to Dumaguete.
Upon arrival, a driver takes you directly to the port to reach Siquijor Island during a crossing of approximately 50 minutes.
Upon arrival, the welcoming team at Coco Grove receives you with care, ready to accompany you for a stay marked by relaxation.
From the hotel beach, you can explore snorkeling the Tubo marine sanctuary, a site that is accessible and appreciated for the richness of its corals, the presence of colorful fish and the opportunity to observe sea turtles.
After this first marine discovery, the three swimming pools of the establishment as well as the Temple Spa invite you to a moment of rest and well-being.
At the end of the day, let yourself be carried away by the beauty of the sunset over Apo Island, a peaceful moment that gently marks your arrival in Siquijor.
Day at Apo Island, Marine Sanctuary for Turtles
Today, heading to Apo Island, located approximately 40 minutes by boat from the southeastern coast of Negros. This small rocky island is home to a marine reserve of 600 hectares, considered one of the richest in the archipelago. Biologists from Silliman university have identified more than 400 varieties of coral and 600 species of fish.
Apo is also a privileged location for green sea turtles, an endangered species that finds an ideal ecosystem here. By practicing snorkeling from the beach, you will be able to observe them up close, sometimes by the dozens.
The excursion runs from approximately 08h30 to 16h00, lunch included. Scuba diving is available as an additional option for those who wish to deepen their exploration.
Free day in Siquijor: relaxation and exploration at your own pace
This day gives you the opportunity to discover Siquijor Island at your own pace.
Several options are available to you:
Book a tuk-tuk tour directly at the reception to explore the interior of the island. This excursion allows you to explore the Cambugahay waterfalls, a place appreciated for its natural pools and lush surroundings.
Fully enjoy the resort by taking a break by the pools or enjoying a wellness moment at the spa, ideal for rejuvenating by the seaside.
Practice snorkeling in the Tubod marine reserve, accessible from the hotel beach, to observe the coral and marine life in a peaceful setting.
A simple and pleasant day, designed to enjoy Siquijor according to your preferences.
Crossing from Siquijor to Bohol
A driver will pick you up at your hotel to take you to Siquijor port, where you will board a ferry for approximately 1 hour 40 minutes heading to Bohol.
Upon arrival at Bohol port, a driver will greet you and take you to your hotel so you can settle in peacefully for the rest of your trip.
Bohol: A day of exploration in the heart of abundant nature
Today, you discover Bohol, an island recognized for the diversity of its landscapes: dense forests, rice fields, beaches and the famous Chocolate Hills. Your English-speaking driver-guide accompanies you from the morning for a complete immersion.
Your first stop takes place at Loboc Adventure Park, where you cross the gorges by zip-line, stretched out on a 500 m cable. You continue with the observation of the Chocolate Hills, a collection of 1,265 hills forming an emblematic panorama of the island.
You then enjoy a peaceful moment during a lunch cruise on the Loboc river, aboard a barge-restaurant. In the afternoon, you set out to meet the tarsier, one of the smallest primates in the world, for a delicate discovery of this small endemic animal.
A full day outdoors, ideal for appreciating the natural richness of Bohol.
Boat Excursion to Pamilacan and Balicasag
Early morning departure at 6am aboard a traditional boat to reach the waters off Pamilacan Island.
You set out to encounter spinner dolphins, often present in this area renowned for their observation.
Pamilacan Island → Balicasag Island
Two dives are then scheduled to explore the seabed around Pamilacan and Balicasag Island, known for their corals, their colorful fauna and the tranquility of their sites.
A beach lunch awaits you before heading back to sea for a late afternoon return, after a day dedicated to the marine beauties of Bohol.
Heading to El Nido
Your hotel will organize your transfer to the Bohol–Panglao Airport, where you will be dropped off 2 hours and 30 minutes before your flight departure. For this trip, you benefit from a baggage allowance of 7 kg in cabin and 20 kg in checked baggage per person.
Upon arrival at El Nido, collect your luggage, exit the terminal and look for your hotel's driver, who will accompany you for the rest of your stay.
Free stay at Miniloc: relaxation and discoveries in Bacuit Bay
You enjoy two free days at Miniloc Island, an ideal setting to choose your activities according to your preferences. Paddling, water expeditions, massages, swimming pool or even table tennis: everyone finds their own pace.
The resort also offers daily activities, accessible directly from the property:
Kayaking at dawn to Big Lagoon, an iconic site in Bacuit Bay.
Kayaking in Big Lagoon with birdwatching.
Kayaking to Small Lagoon, for a gentle exploration.
Hiking around the island to discover its natural environment.
Travelers at Miniloc also benefit from complimentary boat tours, allowing you to discover the surrounding islets and lagoons.
Tour 1 – including notably:
Shimizu Island (snorkeling),
Secret Lagoon (visit and swimming),
Entalula Island (lunch and snorkeling).
Tour 2 – including notably:
Snake Island (swimming and short hike),
Cudugnon & Cathedral Caves (exploration),
Lagen Resort (lunch and light climbing).
Two ideal days to fully enjoy the beauty of Bacuit Bay, between exploration and relaxation.
Return to Manila and accommodation in Ermita district
You take your flight from El Nido – Manila today, then settle in the Ermita district, in immediate proximity to Intramuros. This historic district, founded in 1565 by the Spanish under the leadership of Miguel Lopez de Legazpi, is easily explored on foot, either in the late afternoon or the following morning.
A stroll through its semi-pedestrian streets allows you to explore an urban ensemble rich in history, bearing witness to several centuries of cultural influences. Although most sites close at 5 p.m., a walk through Intramuros already offers a valuable introduction to the historical and cultural wealth of the archipelago.
Last Moments in the Philippines
Manille → Aéroport international de Manille
Your transfer to the airport is organized 4 hours before your international flight departure.
You thus leave the Philippines with peace of mind, after a stay full of discoveries and meetings.
Price per person
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- Meals not included
- The Drinks
- Tips
- Port taxes and baggage fees during crossings
- Activities mentioned for informational purposes
Included
- 11 nights with breakfast included
- Full board at Miniloc Island Resort (DAY 9 and 10)
- Private driver in the northern part of Luzon (6 days)
- All door-to-door transfers
- 3 domestic flights with 20 kg checked baggage and 7 kg cabin baggage
- 2 fast boat crossings
- Local guides during excursions
- Assistance via a Whatsapp channel with the Philippines destination team
- Lunches included: during excursion days DAYS: 3-6-7
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 30 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
- Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
- Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below concerns travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, and Canada traveling to the Philippines for a tourist stay. Entry rules may change, so we recommend verifying information with the official authorities before your departure.
Passport
To enter the Philippines, your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months after the date of entry into the country and contain at least one blank page for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn, or altered pages).
Tourist stay without visa
Nationals of the European Economic Area, Switzerland, and Canada benefit from visa exemption for tourist stays.
To date, this exemption allows an initial stay of 30 days upon entry to the territory. Successive extensions can generally be requested on-site from the Philippine Bureau of Immigration, allowing you to extend your stay up to a maximum of 36 months in total, subject to approval.
Authorities may also request:
an exit ticket from the territory (return or onward flight),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay.
eTravel (digital arrival card)
Before your arrival, you must complete the eTravel form, a digital registration system established by the Philippine authorities.
This online form replaces the paper arrival card and allows you to transmit the necessary information to immigration services for entry into the territory:
passport information
flight details
address of your first accommodation in the Philippines
health declaration
The form must be completed online within 72 hours before your arrival. A confirmation QR code will be generated and may be requested when passing through immigration.
Health and vaccinations
No vaccine is mandatory to enter the Philippines from the EEA, Switzerland, or Canada. However, certain vaccinations are recommended as a preventive measure:
hepatitis A and B,
typhoid,
rabies (particularly in case of activities in rural areas or contact with animals).
Dengue is present in the country. It is advisable to protect yourself against mosquito bites. Consult your doctor or a vaccination center before departure.
Travel with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.
In certain European countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an exit authorization from the territory may be required according to the regulations of the country of residence.
Other nationalities
Entry conditions may vary according to nationality. Affected travelers should inquire with the embassy or consulate of the Philippines in their country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to have evacuation assistance and foreign medical expenses coverage.
Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to an insurance plan, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed to travel with peace of mind!
Choose the plan that best suits you:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to one of these plans.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these formulas, the policy document detailing all coverage and claim procedures is available on the insurance company's website.
Your local agency will be aware of this, but only the participant is responsible for complying with all claim declaration procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy document with them throughout their entire trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
To enter the Philippines, a valid passport for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date is required, along with a return ticket. An electronic arrival form (eTravel) must be completed before departure. Visa-free stay conditions and extension possibilities vary depending on your nationality. Consult the Philippine consular authorities in your country before booking your trip.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a tailor-made quality trip, budget between €150 and €240 per day per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transfers and activities. International flights (€900-1,300 return) are additional. The archipelago comprises over 7,000 islands: transfers represent a significant budget item.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We adapt each itinerary to your travel profile. For families, we prioritize relaxed pacing, family-friendly accommodations, engaging and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our local English-speaking guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, your budget and your dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust every detail together until you reach the perfect version. You confirm and set off with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) coverage, which protects 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Central Visayas
Island escape creator in the Philippines, based in Makati City, Manille
The Philippines invite you to slow down. Between the islands, the ocean and the encounters, you often find a simplicity and lightness that you easily forget elsewhere.
— Jean-Luc
