Philippines Grand Format: From the Rice Fields of the North to the Island Gems

Welcome to Manila ! Mabuhay ! Your trip to the Philippines begins in the bustling capital, Manila, a fascinating metropolis of more than 12 million inhabitants. A true crossroads of cultures and eras, the city captivates with its historical richness and contemporary vitality.

As early as the 16th century, Manila played a central role in exchanges between Asia, America and Europe, thanks to Spanish galleons linking the Philippines to Acapulco. It was during this period that it established itself as a strategic point on the spice and silk route. Devastated during the Second World War, the capital managed to rebuild with resilience and regain its place on the international stage.

Today, Manila reveals itself as a city of contrasts, where modernity and traditions coexist harmoniously. Chinese, Spanish and American influences blend together there, giving birth to a unique cultural identity.

Our local team welcomes you warmly for this first stage of your journey. It is time to soak up the energy of the city and feel Philippine hospitality before venturing out to discover the rest of the archipelago.

After a good breakfast, you will take to the road in a private and comfortable van for a day of travel across the island of Luzon. Approximately nine hours of travel will take you to the heart of Ifugao Province, famous for its terraced rice fields listed as UNESCO world heritage sites.

Along the way, a memorable stop awaits you at Bacolor, where you will discover the San Guillermo Church, partially buried under more than 12 meters of ash and lahar following the spectacular eruption of the volcano Mount Pinatubo in 1991. This place, filled with history and resilience, bears witness to the strength of local communities in the face of nature's trials.

The road then continues through the verdant landscapes of central Luzon, dotted with typical villages where life flows peacefully. You will see inhabitants moving around by tricycle or motorcycle, authentic scenes of daily Philippine life.

This long day of driving will also be an opportunity to immerse yourself in the cultural and natural diversity of the country, before reaching the mountains of Ifugao and the impressive rice terraces awaiting you tomorrow.

After breakfast, your day begins aboard a Jeepney, these emblematic vehicles of the Philippines derived from former American army jeeps, now converted into colorful and typical buses.

You will join your local guide to the traditional villages of Bangaan and Batad, nestled in the heart of the Ifugao mountains. These terraced rice fields are among the most remarkable in the country, shaped by hand for more than two millennia by the Ifugao people.

The hikes, although of moderate duration, require good physical fitness: the trails are sometimes steep and rough, alternating climbs and descents. But each effort is rewarded by exceptional viewpoints over verdant valleys and landscapes shaped by man and nature.

Throughout the walk, your guide will share with you fascinating anecdotes about rice culture and local traditions that perpetuate this ancestral knowledge. This day of exploration will be one of the most authentic and enriching of your trip, in the heart of the mountainous North of the Philippines.

This day offers you a new immersion in the heart of the Ifugao rice terraces, this time in the valley of Hapao Rice Terraces, renowned for its softer landscapes and relatively flat relief. Less steep than Batad, this region reveals another facet of the meticulous work of Ifugao farmers, whose rice terraces stretch as far as the eye can see.

Accompanied by your guide, you will hike directly through the middle of the terraces, an authentic route that allows you to feel the serenity of these landscapes shaped by generations of men and women.

After approximately one hour of walking, you will reach the natural hot springs of Hapao, whose water, heated by geothermal energy, is around 38 °C. These pools are located right next to the river, in which it is also possible to cool off. This moment of relaxation in the heart of nature is a beautiful reward after the hike: a perfect balance between effort and relaxation. Smiles are always guaranteed!

In the afternoon, you will continue on the road to Sagada, nestled in the mountains, to continue your discovery of the North of the Philippines.

This morning, you will set out to discover Sagada, a charming mountain village located in the Mountain Province.

Nestled at over 1,500 meters in altitude, this peaceful locality is known for its singular history and its unique traditions, blending Western influences and ancestral beliefs.

In the early 20th century, following the arrival of Americans in the Philippines, Protestant missionaries came to settle in Sagada. They built the Mission Compound there, a complex comprising a church and several buildings intended for teaching and converting the inhabitants. This presence has left a lasting mark on local culture, while coexisting with the traditional animistic practices of mountain communities.

Among the most fascinating customs of Sagada is that of the hanging coffins, an ancestral funeral ritual intended to honor the deceased and allow their soul to merge with nature. The coffins are suspended on rock walls or placed inside caves, testifying to the deep bond that unites the inhabitants with their environment and their ancestors.

In the afternoon, you will take the road to Baguio, nicknamed the "summer capital" of the Philippines.

Early in the evening, you will be able to enjoy a moment of relaxation at the spa before savoring dinner in one of the city's restaurants, where international dishes are offered in a friendly atmosphere.

This new day begins in Baguio, the mountain city renowned for its mild climate and artistic atmosphere. A true agricultural heart of northern Luzon, the region is known for its vegetable production: it supplies Manila and much of the country with fresh fruits and vegetables.

You will take time to stroll through the immense public market of Baguio, a colorful place where the aromas of spices, local product stalls and traditional crafts mingle. This immersion in the daily life of the inhabitants offers a wonderful glimpse into local life and regional economy.

Your discovery continues in the StoBoSa district, famous for its colorful facades that evoke Brazilian favelas: a true open-air work of art, symbol of the city's cultural dynamism.

For art lovers, we suggest you then visit the BenCab museum, founded by Benedicto Cabrera, one of the most recognized contemporary Philippine painters.

You may also choose to visit a flower farm, where the natural beauty of the place will delight your senses and camera.

In mid-afternoon, you will head towards Capas (approximately 3 hours 30 minutes of travel) to reach Alvin Bognot's lodge, the starting point of your volcano hike planned for the next morning.

Early in the morning, you will set off for a unique adventure in the heart of Mount Pinatubo, an emblematic volcano on the island of Luzon.

After an early wake-up, you will board a 4x4 for an hour of off-road driving through spectacular landscapes shaped by the 1991 eruption. This timeless crossing will take you to the starting point of the hike towards the Pinatubo pass, located at 1,486 meters above sea level.

The walk of approximately 1 to 1.5 hours (400 meters of elevation gain) will lead you to the volcano's crater, now transformed into a deep blue lake, surrounded by impressive volcanic cliffs. Along the trail, you will cross several small streams: it is therefore recommended to wear waterproof and well-fitting shoes.

This day will also be an opportunity to meet the indigenous Aeta people, an ancestral community of hunter-gatherers who have lived in the region for centuries. Their culture, deeply connected to nature, testifies to a remarkable adaptation to this volcanic environment.

Although the hike is accessible to most travelers, it is advisable to be in good physical condition. Note that an access permit is mandatory and must be obtained in advance — without it, entry to the Mount Pinatubo site is not permitted.

This morning, you will head to the Clark International Airport to take your flight to Coron, in the north of the island of Palawan, one of the natural jewels of the Philippines.

Upon arrival, your local driver will warmly welcome you at the airport exit and take you to your hotel for check-in.

The afternoon is free, a wonderful opportunity to start exploring the village of Coron at your own pace. You can stroll through the lively streets, discover small local shops and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this charming island town.

For a panoramic view of the town and bay, don't miss climbing Mount Tapyas: a staircase of approximately 700 steps leads to a spectacular viewpoint, particularly enjoyable at sunset.

Then, why not enjoy a coffee at one of the small local establishments, or take a tricycle to the Maquinit Hot Springs, located by the sea? The setting is ideal for relaxing in naturally warm water, while admiring the surrounding landscape.

This day marks the beginning of your discovery of Palawan, between relaxation, nature and island atmosphere.

This morning, depart early for a private boat excursion to discover the natural treasures of the bay of Coron, during the famous « Coron Island Super Ultimate Tour ». This day at sea will take you to some of the most emblematic sites of Palawan, between majestic limestone cliffs, crystalline waters and colorful seabeds.

Your first stop will take you to Barracuda Lake, famous for its mysterious depth and impressive limestone reliefs. You will then continue to Kayangan Lake, considered a sacred place by the Tagbanua people. Surrounded by spectacular rock formations, this lake of limpid blue is a true natural jewel.

The exploration continues at the Siete Pecados marine sanctuary, a snorkeling site renowned for its preserved corals and its multicolored tropical fish. You will also discover the shallow wreck of the Skeleton Wreck, easily accessible by swimming, as well as the Twin Lagoons, two basins connected by a narrow passage carved into the rock, offering a unique experience between hot and cold lagoons.

Other stops are planned throughout the day: the Malwawey coral garden, the white sand beach of CYC Beach, and the charming Beach 91, where a local lunch is served in a paradise setting.

An unforgettable day, rich in marine encounters, spectacular landscapes and moments of sharing, which reveals all the natural and cultural beauty of Coron.

This morning, you will take a flight of approximately 40 minutes to El Nido, one of the most emblematic and photogenic places on the island of Palawan. Nestled between sea and mountain, El Nido captivates with its white sand beaches, its spectacular karst formations and its relaxed atmosphere.

Upon your arrival, a driver will take you to your hotel for check-in. The afternoon is free, allowing you to fully enjoy this tropical setting. You can relax on the beach or by the pool, or take a tricycle to the lively center of El Nido, where you will find many restaurants and friendly cafés.

The village of El Nido is also the departure point for the famous boat excursions, which explore the turquoise lagoons and surrounding islands — a preview of the natural beauty that awaits you in the coming days.

This first day in El Nido marks the beginning of a new stage of your journey, between relaxation, marine discoveries and island atmosphere.

Today, you embark on an unforgettable day discovering the natural treasures of El Nido, during the famous Tour A, offered in a private version to allow you to enjoy each location at your own pace and in a privileged setting.

This excursion will take you to the heart of the Bacuit Bay, renowned for its turquoise lagoons, its monumental limestone cliffs and its white sand beaches. Among the emblematic stops are Seven Commandos Beach, a magnificent beach lined with coconut trees, and one of the famous Miniloc lagoons — Big Lagoon or Small Lagoon — where you can swim, snorkel or kayak in the midst of a grand natural setting.

You will then continue towards the Secret Lagoon, a small marvel hidden behind a rocky wall, before reaching the peaceful island of Shimizu, known for its caves, coral reefs and secluded coves. A local beachside lunch will be served there in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

This day between crystal-clear waters, paradisiacal beaches and preserved nature perfectly illustrates the wild beauty of Palawan. Your excursion is organized under safe and environmentally responsible conditions, in collaboration with passionate local guides.

This day is placed under the sign of freedom. You have free time in El Nido to organize your activities according to your wishes, at your own pace, directly on site.

Several options are available to you to make the most of this final stage in the heart of Palawan:

• Set off on a new boat excursion, such as Tour C, which will take you to Helicopter Island and Hidden Beach, two spectacular sites with turquoise waters ideal for snorkeling.

• Try scuba diving, in order to explore the seabed of the Bacuit Bay, renowned for their exceptional biodiversity.

• Discover the beaches of Nacpan and Calitang, north of El Nido, two stretches of golden sand still preserved, perfect for a stroll or a moment of relaxation.

• Or simply enjoy relaxation at the resort, between swimming, reading and unforgettable sunsets on the beaches of El Nido.

Whatever your desire, this free day will allow you to experience El Nido in your own way, between gentle adventure and tropical serenity, accompanied by the kindness of your local team.

This day is dedicated to travel between El Nido and Bohol, in the heart of the central Visayas archipelago. After a domestic flight, you will land on this island renowned for its tropical landscapes, its peaceful rivers and its unspoiled nature.

Upon arrival, your local driver will welcome you at the airport and take you to your hotel located near the Loboc river, a peaceful place surrounded by greenery. This enchanting setting will be ideal for you to relax after the journey and savor the sweetness of life that characterizes Bohol.

In the evening, you will have the opportunity to take a boat trip on the Loboc river, a magical moment where thousands of fireflies illuminate the trees along the water. This fairy-tale experience, calm and poetic, is one of the highlights of a stay in Bohol — a natural spectacle that you will not forget.

Today, discover Bohol, one of the most iconic islands of the Philippines, a true concentration of biodiversity and contrasting landscapes between tropical forests, lush rice paddies, beaches and the famous Chocolate Hills.

From the morning, your English-speaking driver-guide will pick you up for a full day of exploring the island's natural wonders. You will start with a thrilling experience at the Loboc Adventure Park, where you will cross the gorges on a zip line stretched out over 500 meters long — an unforgettable flight over the river and canopy.

You will then continue towards the Chocolate Hills, a geological site unique in the world formed of 1,265 perfectly rounded hills, whose golden-brown hue in the dry season earned them their name. The panorama is both stunning and soothing.

At noon, you will board a cruise on the Loboc River aboard a floating barge-restaurant: a moment of relaxation punctuated by lush landscapes and local music.

The afternoon will be dedicated to the encounter with the tarsier, one of the smallest primates in the world, a species endemic to Bohol and symbol of the island. Its expressive gaze and small size make it a moving and memorable encounter.

At the end of the day, you will head towards Anda, to the east of the island (approximately 1 hour drive), to discover a wilder and more preserved region of Bohol, between tropical nature and peaceful coastal atmosphere.

This morning, you will board a ferry for a crossing of approximately two hours heading to Siquijor Island, a small peaceful and enchanting island located in the heart of the central Visayas.

Known for its authentic atmosphere and its preserved tropical landscapes, Siquijor is also called the "mystical island", in reference to its ancient healer traditions and shamanism still alive today.

Your arrival on the island marks a new stage filled with serenity, ideal for concluding your trip to the Philippines gently.

Between white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters and warm coastal villages, Siquijor invites relaxation, encounters and contemplation.

Today, heading to Apo Island, a small volcanic island located off the southeast coast of Negros. After approximately 40 minutes of boat crossing, you will reach this exceptional marine sanctuary, ranked among the richest and most preserved reserves in the Philippine archipelago.

Spanning over 600 hectares, Apo Island Marine Reserve is a true paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Biologists from Silliman University have recorded more than 400 coral species and nearly 600 varieties of tropical fish, making this area a biodiversity hotspot in the Philippines.

But the true treasure of Apo Island is its green sea turtles, an endangered species that has found an ideal refuge here. By simply swimming with mask and snorkel from the beach, you will have the chance to observe dozens of them, moving peacefully in their natural habitat — a rare and deeply moving experience.

The excursion, organized from approximately 8:30 am to 4 pm, includes a local lunch on site. Certified divers can also opt, for an additional fee, for scuba diving to explore the spectacular seabed of the reserve.

A memorable day, between marine encounter, natural immersion and environmental respect, to end your stay in the Visayas on a magical note.

Discover Siquijor Island, nicknamed "the enchanted island" for its mysterious atmosphere and centuries-old traditions. Aboard a local tricycle, you will travel along the picturesque coastal roads of this small authentic island, between tropical landscapes and peaceful villages.

Your excursion will first take you to the Four Century Old Balete Tree, a fig tree over 400 years old, to which the local population attributes magical powers. At its roots springs a clear water source where small fish swim, a place that is both spiritual and soothing.

You will then continue towards the Cambugahay waterfalls, an emblematic natural site of Siquijor. These cascades with turquoise waters are perfect for a refreshing swim or a moment of relaxation in nature.

The visit continues with the discovery of the Saint Isidore Church and Convent of Lazi, built in 1884. Classified as historical monuments, these buildings bear witness to the island's Spanish colonial heritage. Further on, you will enjoy a panoramic view of the coast and mangrove near Enrique Villanueva, before observing the marine fauna of the Tulapos Marine Sanctuary, a protected area dedicated to the preservation of coral and tropical fish.

As an option, you can also meet with Siquijor's traditional healers, who perpetuate natural medicine rituals based on plants and incantations, a living reflection of the local spiritual culture.

A complete and enriching day, between nature, traditions and human encounters, which reveals all the mysterious and benevolent soul of Siquijor.

This morning, you will leave Siquijor to join Dumaguete, on the island of Negros, by taking a ferry for approximately 50 minutes.

Upon your arrival, a delicious breakfast will be waiting for you at Coco Grande, to start your day well before your flight.

You will then head to Dumaguete Airport for a flight of approximately 1 hour 40 minutes to Manila, where a local driver will greet you at the exit and take you to your hotel.

For your last evening in the Philippines, let yourself be seduced by Manila's lively nightlife. The Poblacion district in Makati is full of bars and restaurants where music, gastronomy and friendly atmosphere blend together.

You can also take a taxi to Fort Bonifacio and stroll along High Street, a pleasant pedestrian street lined with shops, cafés and green spaces.

A beautiful way to conclude your trip perfectly, between memories of paradise islands and urban energy before your return.

Your beautiful Philippine adventure is coming to an end. This last day in Manila gives you a little more time to enjoy the capital at your own pace before your international flight.

Depending on your wishes, you can stroll through the modern neighborhoods of Greenbelt in Makati, known for their gardens, cafés and elegant galleries, or discover Uptown in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), a dynamic area blending urban art, contemporary shops and trendy restaurants.

About five hours before your departure, your driver will pick you up at the hotel and take you to Manila International Airport.

This is the end of a journey rich in discoveries, encounters and emotions, through the rice fields, volcanoes, beaches and traditions of the Philippines. We hope this experience has left you with wonderful memories and the desire to come back and explore other horizons of the archipelago.

Salamat po !