While six days is a popular duration for kimkim travelers, 10 days are recommended for a more thorough trip to the Philippines. You can spend time on the archipelago's largest island, Luzon, swim under waterfalls on Siquijor, admire the Chocolate Hills of Bohol, and snorkel among colorful fish off the coast of Cebu. This gives you enough time to island hop, relax on pristine beaches, and discover the country's unique landscapes without feeling rushed.

The Philippines in 10 Days

Chocolate Hills, Bohol, Philippines
Chocolate Hills, Bohol, Philippines

In 10 days, you can hop between the Philippines' most idyllic islands, take in its coastal and inland wonders, and head out to sea to discover incredible marine life. This classic tour, which includes time on three different islands and in the bustling city of Manila, is the perfect introduction to the country. The trip begins with a night in Manila, taking in the capital city's vibrant nightlife. Then, head to Siquijor Island for a thrilling day cliff jumping at Salagdoong Beach, swimming under waterfalls at Cambugahay Falls, and watching the sunset from Paliton Beach.

Another must-see highlight is the island of Bohol, reachable by boat from Siquijor. Here, you can admire the mystical Chocolate Hills, explore the mahogany forests of Biliran, and cruise along the lively Loboc River. Afterward, catch a boat to Cebu, where you can experience canyoneering at Kawasan Falls and embark on a boat trip to swim with sea turtles and snorkel among thousands of sardines. With a mix of relaxation and adventure, you'll leave this trip with a well-rounded view of the Philippines' culture and natural beauty.

Plan your trip to Philippines
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.

Other Durations

If you have less time in the Philippines, you'll want to focus on one region. Choose between experiencing the exotic geography of Palawan, snorkeling in the Calamian Islands, or embarking on a trek through the Cordillera region's famous rice terraces. If you have more than 10 days, you can hop between islands and add exciting day trips to your itinerary, such as visiting Coron, Balicasag, and Ticao.

The Philippines in 6 Days

A shorter stay in the Philippines is possible, especially if you narrow your exploration to one region. Six days give you enough time to hike and snorkel your way around Palawan on a classic itinerary or trek through sacred waterfalls and quaint villages on a Cordillera-focused trip. You could also head farther afield and discover Calamian Islands' abundant marine life on a six-day snorkeling trip.

The Philippines in 9 Days

With nine days, you can take your time experiencing the Philippines' vibrant marine biodiversity, spectacular coral reefs, and world-class beaches on a scuba diving trip. Head underwater near the coasts of Panglao Island and Balicsag Island to encounter sea turtles and jackfish, experience the famous muck dives sites of Dauin, and explore the marine reserves surrounding Apo Island. Then, continue to Moalboal for wall diving and Malapascua to scuba among thresher sharks.

The Philippines in 15 Days

In 15 days, you can join a Philippines highlights tour and paddle, snorkel, and hike your way across the country. Start on Luzon, the archipelago's largest island, to discover the ancient Banaue Rice Terraces and ponder the famous hanging coffins in Echo Valley. You'll also explore the Chocolate Hills on Bohol, go canyoneering on Cebu, and cruise through karst islands offshore from Palawan. If you skip extended time on Luzon, you can snorkel above Coron's shipwrecks and coral reefs and relax on the pristine beaches of Boracay, like on this 15-day tour.

The Philippines in 20 Days

If you're fortunate enough to have 20 days to spend in the Philippines, you can opt for a slower-paced trip and split your time between the country's renowned highlights and remote islands. Each day offers incredible landscapes to explore, including the Catandayagan Falls on Ticao, the Chocolate Hills on Bohol, and the underground river in Puerto Princesa Underground River National Park. You'll also be able to join snorkeling adventures off the coast of Anilao and Ticao, island hop in El Nido, and swim with whale sharks.

More Helpful Information

Secluded beach with crystal clear waters, and soft white sand on Palawan
Secluded beach with crystal clear waters and soft white sand on Palawan

With over 7,640 islands in the Philippines to discover, there's plenty to keep you busy. Yet, with 10 days, it's a good idea to base yourself on three to four different islands. On Luzon, you can experience the vibrant city life of Manila, explore Banaue and Batad rice terraces, and snorkel or dive offshore from Anilao

Bohol Island is another excellent addition to any Philippines itinerary and is known for its impressive interior. While on the island, you can ATV among the Chocolate Hills, spot at least one of the world's smallest primates at the Tarsier Sanctuary, and go ziplining in Loboc Ecotourism Adventure Park. Then, a 1.5-hour ferry ride from Bohol brings you to Cebu, where you can embark on a thrilling Kawasan Falls canyoneering adventure and head out on an island hopping tour, complete with stops at Pescadores and a sea turtle sanctuary.

For more time relaxing on white sand beaches, boating alongside karst islands, and discovering unique landscapes, head to Palawan. Home to the impressive Puerto Princesa Underground River, the limestone cliffs and turquoise waters of El Nido, the colorful coral reefs of Ulugan Bay, and the cascading Estrella Falls, there's plenty to explore.