Essential Philippines

Maligayang pagdating! Welcome to the Philippines. Your adventure begins in the city of Cebu with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, you might like to wander around the 16th-century landmarks that show the city’s Spanish influence and history. Maybe visit the Cebu Taoist Temple or get sweeping views over the city at Tops – a popular observation deck on Mt Busay.

This morning, you’ll head out on a city tour of Cebu with your leader. See the popular spots of Cebu’s history, like Magellan's Cross, Fort San Pedro, Casa Gorordo Museum and the Basilica del Santo Nino (the oldest Roman Catholic church in the country!). Learn some local knowledge from your guide while you soak in the city’s island atmosphere, then head to an optional lunch of lechon (a whole roasted pig cooked over an open flame, typically served for special occasions) – popularly deemed the ‘best pig ever’ by chef Anthony Bourdain. After lunch, take the ferry to Bohol – known for its coral reefs and the unusual Chocolate Hills. Arrive in the capital of Tagbilaran, then transfer to your riverside lodge for the night – sitting right on Loboc River and surrounded by lush greenery, this sustainable tourism sanctuary prioritises the preservation of its natural landscape and operates in harmony with the environment.

Have breakfast this morning, then head out on the Loboc River. Take a yoga lesson on stand-up paddleboards, surrounded by lush jungle (what better way to start the day?) then have some lunch on the riverbank. After, follow your local leader for a community tour of this quiet, rural town, learning what life is like by the river. First, you’ll have the chance to make your own ‘nipa’ roof, from harvesting the indigenous materials to seeing the finished product. Taste some coconut wine, walk through the rice paddies and spot some carabao (water buffalo). Learn the kuradang (the traditional dance of the area), then open your own coconut and cheers to an authentic look into the culture of this part of the Philippines. This afternoon you have free time, so maybe go kayaking or just hang out by the river.

Rise very early today for a sunrise breakfast at Chocolate Hills – don't forget your camera today! These 1200 unusual geological formations are symmetrical mounds that jut up from the jungle. In the dry season, they turn brown, in stark contrast to the surrounding greenery (hence the name). Over pastries, fruits and a glass of sikwate (the Boholano chocolate drink), watch this strange landscape light up with the day’s sunshine, then take a tour of the best local spots. First is Can-umantad Falls – these 60 m high cascades are the tallest in Bohol and have been coined ‘Bohol’s best kept secret.’ Carry on to the Cadapdapan Rice Terraces and take in the lush landscape. Later, you’ll have a free evening to maybe go firefly spotting on canoes after the sun dips below the horizon.

Drive to Panglao Island today. Just off Bohol Island, Panglao is known for its gorgeously white beaches, swaying palm trees and calm atmosphere. When you arrive, the rest of the day is free for you to relax, crack your book on the white stretches of sand or find a good local restaurant to lounge in.

Today is a free day to discover the island at your own pace. Maybe spend the day on an optional Pamilacan Island marine tour and try to spot the resident whales and dolphins with the crew of your outrigger boat. After trying to spot spinner dolphins and some of the six species of whale that pass through here, you’ll head to the marine sanctuary where you can go snorkelling to spot some more wildlife up close! Then, take a walking tour of the island and sit down under the sun for a local seafood lunch made by the women’s association. Learn about the local culture, including how they harvest sea urchins and work to preserve the natural resources. Alternatively, you can just find the perfect beach spot under a palm tree and spend the afternoon with a cocktail in hand.

Get prepped for a little bit of travel this morning as you make your way to Siquijor (known as ‘the island of fire’ due to the swarms of fireflies that nestle in the molave trees). You’ll first head back to Bohol, where you’ll take the ferry to the island – home to many scenic waterfalls, caves, gorgeous beaches and bars. When you arrive, your afternoon is wide open to explore. If you need help planning activities, just ask your leader.

Set out on a day tour today of the beautiful island and its surroundings. See the St Francis de Assisi Bell Tower of Roman design and the Capilay Spring Park. Visit the Balete Tree (some people believe that balete trees are dwelling places for supernatural beings or engkanto, like diwata, kapre or tikbalang) and the century-old San Isidro de Labrador Church and its convent. If you’re feeling adventurous, take the hike down 300 steps to the three-tiered Cambugahey Falls where you can go for a dip. Today, you’ll also have the chance to visit a local shaman or the bolo bolo healers who will teach you about their practise. Drive on to Triad for lunch, watching the views of the sea and neighbouring islands as you go. When you arrive, head to Paliton Beach, lined with coconut trees, before heading back for the night.

Take the ferry and wave goodbye to Siquijor Island as you make your way back to Cebu. When you arrive, your afternoon is free to explore anything in Cebu city that you didn’t get to last time or just rest and relax before an optional final dinner with your group to celebrate a beautiful trip in the Philippines!

There are no activities planned this morning and you’re free to depart any time after check-out. If you’d like to extend your stay, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.