Philippines Travel Insights

Night markets and street food await when the sun goes down in Manila

2 Weeks in the Philippines - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks in the Philippines, you can delve into the country's culture, nature, and islands on a highlights tour featuring Dumaguete, Bohol Island, and Cebu City, or opt for an active adventure that gets you out hiking among terraced rice fields, dramatic valleys, and to serene waterfalls. You can also pack in stays in six different destinations on a fast-paced tour. Or, if it's beach time you're after, set your sights on an island paradise trip featuring Bohol, Palawan, and Coron.

On an itinerary to Bohol, you'll spend some time contemplating the distintive Chocolate Hills

10 Days in the Philippines - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days in the Philippines, you can split your time between Manila, Cebu Island, and Boracay during a well-rounded tour of the city, mountains, and beaches. Or, delve into the local culture and stay in rice terrace-surrounded villages while making your way between Manila, Banaue, and Baguio. Other options include a relaxing island-hopping trip featuring Palawan and Coron, memorable diving opportunities from Moalboal, and nature excursions on Bohol Island.

Sample the white-sand beaches and vibrant nightlife of the Philippines

Philippines Beaches & Nightlife: Manila, Boracay, Cebu & Coron - 14 Days

Immerse yourself in the culture, beaches, and nightlife of the Philippines on this 14-day itinerary that takes you from the bustling streets of Manila to some of the best tropical islands. Cycle across the capital's Intramuros district and road trip to the Taal volcano before trading the city for the tropics on Boracay, where you can split your time relaxing on the beach and dancing the night away. Round out the trip with visits to Cebu and Coron to trek to waterfalls, and discover World War II shipwrecks.

Spend two weeks hopping between Philippine islands like Palawan

Island Paradises of the Philippines: Bohol, Palawan & Coron - 14 Days

Pack your swimsuit and your sense of adventure for this two-week Philippines getaway. After an introduction to the capital, you'll split your time between the islands of Bohol, Palawan, and Coron—filling your days with outrigger canoe tours, snorkeling excursions, and plenty of uninterrupted beach time. Highlights include meeting the world's smallest primates on Bohol, snorkeling over the World War II shipwrecks off El Nido, and cruising around the hidden lagoons and islets of the Calamian archipelago.

Discover Siargao and take a surf lesson in the Philippines surf capital or watch surfers from iconic Cloud 9 Beach

5 Days in the Philippines - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With five days in the Philippines, focusing on one or two regions is wise. First-timers seeking a mix of history, cuisine, and adventure will enjoy Manila heritage and street food tours paired with Boracay watersports. Those keen on culture and hiking will appreciate a Bangaan Rice Terraces trek and the chance to learn about Ifugao culture. At the same time, travelers eager for an island getaway can try surfing in Siargao, island hopping in El Nido, or snorkeling among Coron's shipwrecks and coral gardens.

See natural wonders like Bohol's Chocolate Hills as you loop your way through the Philippines from Manila

Philippines Explorer: Manila, Banaue, Bohol, Cebu & Palawan - 14 Days

If you want to see the most of the Philippines in just two weeks, this far-reaching, fast-paced itinerary gives you a taster of the archipelago's remarkable natural and cultural diversity. Beginning and ending in Manila, you'll travel from the remote northern rice terraces of Luzon to the far-western island of Palawan, visiting Indigenous villages, sprawling metropolises, unspoiled countryside, and tropical islands along the way.

Enjoy a diverse adventure across the Philippine capital, coastal retreats, and idyllic islands

Essential Philippines: Culture, Nature & Islands - 14 Days

A perfect choice for those who want to sample the full spectrum of the Philippines' culture and nature, this 14-day highlights tour checks off some of the country's vibrant cities, natural wonders, and palm-fringed islands. Visit historic landmarks and learn about the country's past with tours of Manila and Cebu City, immerse yourself in nature in Bohol's Chocolate Hills and Cebu's Kawasan Waterfall, and snorkel through coral reefs and sunbathe on the pristine sands of Nalusuan and Balacasag.

Relax on the white-sand beaches in Boracay

Philippines Relaxed City & Island Getaway: Manila, Boracay, Cebu & Coron - 14 Days

With two weeks to spare, you can hop between three of the Philippines' most idyllic island retreats at a leisurely pace—and still have time for some city fun in the capital. Kick things off with a cycling tour of Manila's Intramuros district, then jet off to Boracay for boat tours, relaxing spa treatments, and plenty of beach time. Continue to the islands of Cebu and Coron to hike to waterfalls and snorkel with shipwrecks, then end with a quick shopping tour back in Manila for the perfect souvenirs.

Enjoy a mix of guided tours and free time while staying on Palawan Island for snorkeling

Philippines Active Adventure: Manila, Banaue, Sagada & Palawan - 14 Days

Combine natural landscapes with active adventures on this two-week exploration of the Philippines. Hike, bike, and snorkel your way across the bustling capital of Manila, the quaint villages of Banaue and Sagada, and the tropical island of Palawan. There will be plenty of time to relax, too, as you visit white-sand beaches and spend two days island hopping around the Bacuit Archipelago. Finish the trip back in Manila, where you can spend your last night shopping, dining, or enjoying some nightlife

Enjoy three days exploring Siargao Island and its treasures like the Magpupungko Rock Pool on a highlights tour

1 Week in the Philippines - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With one week to explore the Philippines, you can choose between urban adventures, beach and water activities, or a mix of both. Manila and Cebu City are ideal locations to delve into the country's history and fit in nature-based day trips, while Moalboal and Oslob, located on Cebu Island, are perfect destinations for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. If you're eager to island-hop, opt for a stay in El Nido. Or, include time on Bohol Island for inland adventures, such as to the famed Chocolate Hills.

Cross the Loboc River via a bamboo bridge on the island of Bohol

Nature & Adventure in the Philippines: Cebu City, Moalboal & Bohol - 10 Days

Get off the beaten track with this active 10-day adventure that introduces you to the unspoiled nature and unique wildlife of two Philippine islands. After some urban sightseeing in Cebu City, it's on to the coastal town of Moalboal to snorkel off Pescador Island, go canyoning down Kawasan Falls, and dive with whale sharks in Oslob. Next, catch a ferry to Bohol, where you'll hike among its famous Chocolate Hills, cruise down the Loboc River, and spot tarsiers and dolphins in their natural habitat.

Lay on the white sands of Palawan's many beaches

City Break to Island Escape in the Philippines: Manila & Palawan - 10 Days

Journey from the bustling city of Manila to the tropical paradise of Palawan on this 10-day Philippines getaway. Explore the many landmarks, markets, and malls of the capital before flying to Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan. Cruise down a subterranean river and visit a local Batak tribe, then head to El Nido, the gateway to the Bacuit archipelago. Lay on the white-sand beaches, swim in the turquoise waters, and cruise from island to island as you soak up the sun.

Explore the turquoise waters around Coron

Island Highlights of the Philippines: Manila, Palawan & Coron - 10 Days

Spend 10 days swimming, boating, and diving through the Philippines with this beach-focused getaway. Set out from Manila for the western island of Palawan, where you'll explore the Puerto Princesa Underground River, the white-sand beaches of El Nido, and the hidden lagoons of Bacuit Bay. Continue to Coron to kayak with fireflies and dive to sunken shipwrecks before winding down your adventure with a final day of sightseeing and culture in the capital.

Visit the the Banaue Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Philippines Nature & Culture Adventure: Rice Terraces to Coral Reefs - 10 Days

Venture from the bustling streets of Manila to the tranquil coastline of Anilao on this 10-day adventure across the Philippines. Discover remote wonders like the UNESCO-listed rice terraces of Banaue and the hanging coffins in Echo Valley, then cool off in the tranquil "Summer Capital" of Baguio. Along the way, you'll keep busy with plenty of active excursions—cycling the cobblestones of Manila's Intramuros district, trekking up mountains, swimming in waterfalls, and snorkeling amid Anilao's famed marine life.

Relax on the white sand of Puka Beach in Boracay

Philippines Cities, Mountains & Beaches Tour: Manila, Cebu & Boracay -10 Days

Discover the natural landscapes and cultural heritage of the Philippines on this action-packed 10-day itinerary. Your adventure starts in the bustling capital of Manila, where you'll cycle across the Intramuros district, learn how to cook authentic Filipino dishes, and hike to the crater lake on Mount Pinatubo. Fly to Cebu City to discover its many historic landmarks, then escape to the tropics on the island of Boracay. Lay on the white-sand beaches, cruise from island to island, and cool off in Kawasan Falls.

Enjoy the very best urban and beach experiences the Philippines has to offer in only five days

Philippines City & Beach Tour: Manila & Boracay - 5 Days

If you're looking for a perfect taster of the Philippines, this whirlwind tour introduces you to some of the best experiences the island nation has to offer in less than a week. You'll begin in the bustling capital of Manila, sampling street food and touring historic landmarks before moving on to the island escape of Boracay for beaches, snorkeling, and island-hopping adventures.

Explore the famous palm forests, hidden coves, and endless beaches on Siargao

Philippines Highlights Tour: From Manila to Siargao - 7 Days

Spend a week discovering the best of the Philippines with this city and island-focused itinerary. Begin in the capital with a street food tasting, a tour of Old Manila, and a trip to the modern Makati. After an excursion to the towering stratovolcano of Taal, you'll hop over to the island paradise of Siargao for surfing and swimming. Explore waterfalls and caves in the interior, then take a boat trip around the surrounding islands to discover more sandy beaches, diverse marine life, and swaying palm forests.

Visit the Chocolate Hills of Bohol Island on this rural Philippines tour

Countryside Adventures in the Philippines: Cebu City, Moalboal & Bohol Island - 7 Days

The Philippines has beautiful rural landscapes, and with a week to spare, you can see some of the country's greatest natural sights. You'll start off with an urban adventure in the big city of Cebu before making your way to the scenic coastal resort of Moalboal and the island of Bohol, meeting tarsiers, diving down to coral reefs, and touring the stunning Chocolate Hills. It's the perfect choice for nature-loving adventurers.

Enjoy the pristine wilderness of the El Nido islands

Philippines Island Adventure: Manila & El Nido - 7 Days

The Philippines is made up of over 7,000 islands, and with this seven-day tour, you'll get to see some of the most beautiful examples around the El Nido region. Hop across Bacuit Bay to discover white-sand beaches, colorful coral reefs, secret waterfalls, and more. You'll also have a couple of days to explore the Philippines' lively capital of Manila, enjoying a full, deep dive into Filipino culture and nature in just one week.

Visit the many historic sites of Manila and Cebu on this engaging and educational heritage adventure

Historical Tour of the Philippines: Manila & Cebu City - 7 Days

If you're interested in Filipino history and culture, this is the tour for you. Spend a full week diving into the country's past with expert-led heritage tours of two major cities, Manila and Cebu. You'll visit cathedrals and shrines, explore museums, and walk along centuries-old walls, as well as get time to see the Philippines' natural side with a mountain hike and whale shark swimming experience.

Dive alongside gentle whale sharks off Oslob

Diving & Snorkeling in the Philippines: Moalboal & Oslob - 7 Days

Tropical marine life, pristine beaches, and serene waterfalls await you on this weeklong aquatic adventure in the Philippines. Based between the coastal towns of Moalboal and Oslob, you'll embark on an adventurous itinerary of private snorkeling and diving excursions. Plunge into the clear waters of uninhabited islands, discover vibrant coral reefs, and swim among an abundance of colorful fish species—including gentle whale sharks and the famous sardine run.

Seek out Siargao, the "Surf Capital of the Philippines"

Discover Siargao: Surf Capital of the Philippines - 5 Days

Start with snorkeling in turquoise lagoons and end with surfing lessons from a pro on this five-day escape to Siargao. Known as the "Surfing Capital of the Philippines," you'll get the chance to practice your skills at one of the world's most renowned surf spots while also island hopping with a cocktail in hand, visiting deserted islands, napping in hammocks in the palms, and diving into rock pools along the Pacific Ocean.

Explore Coron's coast and craggy islands by outrigger

Philippines Island Escape: Snorkeling & Beaches in Coron - 5 Days

Discover Coron's plentiful lagoons, beaches, and jungles on this five-day tour in the Philippines' Calamian archipelago. After a day experiencing Filipino city life and its historic Spanish remnants in Cebu City, it's off to the far-flung shores of Coron for a quick but action-packed itinerary of snorkeling, oceanside picnics, and outrigger canoe rides. Explore underwater cities of colorful coral and their equally vibrant inhabitants, as well as long-forgotten shipwrecks, the last vestiges of World War II.

Let your troubles float away as you relax on the pristine beaches of El Nido

Island Hopping in the Philippines: Cebu City & El Nido - 5 Days

Pack a whole lot into just five days in the Philippines with this thrilling tour of Cebu City and the picturesque El Nido region. You'll start off in big Cebu City, enjoying an intriguing heritage tour and stopping off at all the big landmarks, from Cebu Cathedral to Magellan's Cross. From there, you'll leave urban life behind to enjoy beach time, snorkeling, and island-hopping fun in El Nido, home of white sands and turquoise lagoons.

Jewel-like rice terraces blanket the northern region of Luzon

Cultural Traditions in the Philippines: Rice Terraces & Hanging Coffins in Luzon - 5 Days

Explore the verdant rice terraces and rich cultural traditions of Luzon's remote Ifugao province with this five-day Philippines adventure. With an active itinerary of guided treks and tours, you'll seek out misty mountain villages in Banaue, witness the daily life and unusual burial rituals of the island's Igorot people in Sagada, and discover both colonial and Indigenous history in the "Summer Capital" of Baguio.

Discover the very timid tarsier on Bohol, the Philippines

How Many Days to Spend in the Philippines

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.

Discover Palawan's Snake Island at low tide in the dry season

Best Time of Year to Visit the Philippines

The dry season (December to May) is the best time to visit the Philippines as the sun is shining, the sea is calm and clear, and the conditions are perfect for a range of outdoor activities. There are also advantages of traveling in the wet season (June to November), including lower prices and fewer crowds, as well as pockets of the country that remain pretty dry.

Colonial-era building, "the Ruins" in Bacolod (photo courtesy of Brian Kairuz)

The Philippines in October: Travel Tips, Weather & More

October is the end of the rainy season in the Philippines, and although travelers should expect some showers, there's less rain than in the previous few months. This is the shoulder season for travel and is an excellent time to visit if you want to take advantage of lower prices, thinner crowds, and fair weather. There are also many great festivals you can take part in during October. Read on to learn more about travel to the Philippines in October.

Diving buddies scope out the coral gardens of Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park

The Philippines in December: Travel Tips, Weather & More

December is the peak season for travel to the Philippines: the weather is fine and clear, and so are the seas. Swimming and diving are excellent this month, as are island-hopping itineraries—there are over 7,000 islands in the Philippines, after all! Read on to find out more about travel to the Philippines in December.

Visit Coron, Palawan for the stunning beaches, shallow reefs, and stellar diving

The Philippines in January: Travel Tips, Weather & More

January is one of the best months to travel to the Philippines: the weather is warm but not too hot and humid, there's little rain, and everything is open and accessible. Crowds and costs will be higher, though, especially around New Year. Whether you want to party with the locals during one of the country's famous festivals, try a new water sport, or relax on a beach in the sun, January is a great time to do so. Read on to find out more about traveling to the Philippines in January.

Book accommodation early and lie out on the beaches of Entalula Island in Bacuit Bay, El Nido

The Philippines in November: Travel Tips, Weather & More

November is the start of the dry season in the Philippines, and with that comes an uptick in tourism. Although you may still encounter showers, the weather is mostly good, and all areas of the country are likely accessible. Swim with whale sharks, hike in the mountains, or relax on a beautiful beach: it's all possible in the Philippines in November. Read on to find out more.

Intrepid travelers might favor Samar Island, part of the Visayan Islands archipelago

The Philippines in September: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Most of the Philippines is wet in September, as this is the rainy and low season for tourism. However, a handful of locales remain drier than the rest of the country, so make a beeline for Palawan, the Eastern Visayas, and Mindanao if you want a relatively dry beach vacation. Here's some more information on where to go and what to do in the Philippines in September.

Wooden walkway off of Siargao Island allows surfers to cross the reef to popular Cloud 9 surfing break

The Philippines in August: Travel Tips, Weather & More

August is the middle of the rainy season in the Philippines, and it's the wettest month of the year in most places⁠—although it also happens to be the driest time of the year in others. If you choose your destination wisely, you can have a great time in the Philippines in August, particularly if you're a surfer. Find out more about traveling to the Philippines in August below.

Sunrise over a beach in Cebu (photo courtesy of Mike L.)

The Philippines in July: Travel Tips, Weather & More

July is the middle of the rainy season in the Philippines and the low season for travel. It's one of the wettest months of the year, but the rains don't affect all parts of the country equally. It's still possible to have a great beach vacation if you head to drier destinations, such as Cebu, Samar, or Leyte. Find out more about traveling to the Philippines in July.

Quietly seek out the delicate tarsier in the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary on Bohol

The Philippines in June: Travel Tips, Weather & More

June is the start of the rainy season in the Philippines, but the rains don't affect all parts of the country equally. Some places, particularly Cebu and Mindanao, stay relatively dry. If you're looking for a chilled-out beach vacation and don't mind a little rain, you can have a great time in the Philippines in June. Find out more about where to go and what to do below.

Volcanic Mount Mayon on the outskirts of Legazpi

The Philippines in May: Travel Tips, Weather & More

May is shoulder season for travel to the Philippines and is a great time to visit if you want lower prices, thinner crowds, and generally good weather. Temperatures are hot, and while there's a chance of rain, if you tailor your activities to the conditions, this can be a great month to visit. Here's where to go and what to do in the Philippines in May, plus information on an exciting month-long festival.

Hike to waterfalls on Siquijor Island, Philippines

The Philippines in April: Travel Tips, Weather & More

April is a popular time of year for travel to the Philippines as it is at the end of the dry season before the rains arrive. Temperatures are generally hot in April, so many travelers will prefer beach vacations. A country of more than 7,000 islands, you're never too far from the coastline and a gorgeous beach in the Philippines. Read on for more information on traveling to the Philippines in April.

Terraced rice fields in northern Luzon (photo courtesy of AR)

The Philippines in March: Travel Tips, Weather & More

March is the high season for travel to the Philippines, as it's at the tail end of the dry season. But as temperatures and humidity increase, many travelers prefer to stick to beach areas this month. Luckily, there are plenty to choose from in a country of thousands of islands. Alternatively, head to higher altitudes in the hills for land-based activities.

Swim with whale sharks off in Donsol Bay

The Philippines in February: Travel Tips, Weather & More

February is the peak season for travel to the Philippines, with warm and dry weather that's not too hot. It's a great time to participate in all outdoor activities, from hiking to scuba diving. With over 7,000 islands making up the country, you'll find somewhere to suit your needs and interests this month. Read on to find out where to go and what to do in the Philippines in February.

Look out over Bohol's famous Chocolate Hills

Philippines Island Hopping: Manila, Siquijor, Bohol & Moalboal - 10 Days

On this 10-day adventure, you'll set out from Manila to explore three of the Philippines' most idyllic islands with an itinerary full of immersive experiences and active excursions. Experience the thrill of cliff jumping in Siquijor, see the famous Chocolate Hills of Bohol, snorkel with sea turtles off of Cebu, and get your adrenaline pumping with a canyoning excursion across the turquoise waters of Kawasan Falls.

Modern banca boats carrying snorkeling enthusiasts near Coron Island

Discover the Philippines: Snorkeling in the Calamian Islands - 6 Days

Explore the natural wonders of the Calamian archipelago on this six-day snorkeling trip. You'll begin on Coron Island, the third-largest of the Calamian islands and a snorkeling hotspot teeming with marine life. After exploring World War II-era shipwrecks and reefs, you'll transfer to Pass Island, snorkel at Smith Point Coral Garden, and swim at Barracuda Lake. Then, go on one last snorkeling adventure in Siete Pecados Marine Park before spending one last night in a beach cottage.

View of a reef off the coast of the Philippines

Diving in the Philippines: Cebu, Negros & Bohol - 9 Days

Experienced divers can experience the Philippines' vibrant marine biodiversity, colorful reefs, and white-sand beaches on this exciting nine-day itinerary. Begin your trip with an easy dive off the coast of Panglao Island before exploring underwater caves and reefs off Balicasag Island. See camouflaged creatures like octopi and frogfish in the volcanic sands of Dumaguete, spot huge schools of jackfish and barracuda near Apo Island, and go wall diving in Moalboal before ending your trip on Malapascua.

Whale Shark Encounter in the Philippines: Ticao & Donsol - 3 Days

On this eco-friendly tour, you will get to swim with wild whale sharks in a protected and responsibly-managed environment. Considered the best place in the world to see the gentle giants, Donsol is also a paradise of soft-sand beaches and magnificent limestone rock formations. Besides seeing whale sharks in their natural habitat, you'll get to snorkel and relax around the islands of Ticao, and float down the amazing Firefly River as bright sparkles alight the surrounding forest.

Island Hopping in the Philippines: Manila, Donsol, Cebu & Palawan - 20 Days

Spend 20 days island hopping in the Philippines, hitting some of the country's major highlights. You'll begin in Manila, the country's busy capital. Then, you'll swim with whale sharks and snorkel in Donsol. Next, you'll fly to beautiful Cebu, swimming in pristine waterfalls, seeing the famous chocolate hills, and looking for marine turtles. Finally, you'll arrive in Palawan, the country's largest province. Adventures include visiting shipwrecks, exploring an underground river, and hiking to hidden lakes.

Highlights of the Philippines: Sand, Sea & Mountains - 15 Days

Discover the best of the Philippines on this 15-day tour as you paddle, snorkel, hike, and fly across the country. Begin in Manila, working your way north to the Banaue Rice Terraces before flying south to Bohol, Cebu, and Mactan islands. Continue west and end the adventure in Puerto Princesa and the ever-popular El Nido.

Philippines Beaches, Waterfalls & Lagoons - 15 Days

This 15-day itinerary offers the perfect combination of adventurous and relaxing activities. You will snorkel shipwrecks and aquamarine lagoons, visit secluded beaches, and climb and rappel slippery trails. Enjoy the Philippines as you island hop your way across the country, ending on the white sandy beaches of Boracay.

Philippine Honeymoon: Boracay, El Nido & Coron - 11 Days

Covering some of the Philippines' most desirable beaches, this 11-day tour offers the perfect romantic getaway for couples. Stay in luxury resorts in exotic locations from private islands to jungle hideaways. Enjoy customized private tours of nearby islands, snorkel shipwrecks, and lounge beachside with a cocktail in hand.

The Batad rice terraces with local Ifugao men

The Cordillera: Banaue, Batad & Sagada - 6 Days

Trek through the Philippines' Cordillera and marvel at its natural and cultural heritage. Discover famous rice terraces, quaint villages, sacred waterfalls and rivers, extensive cave systems, and the hanging coffins of Echo Valley.

Palawan: Adventure in Paradise - 6 Days

Palawan's exotic geography and diverse vegetation are exceptional in a country that already has its fair share of awe-inspiring sights. This six-day adventure will have you snorkeling, seeking out wildlife, riding an underground river, and kayaking the El Nido islands. Discover why Palawan is in a league of its own when it comes to tropical destinations.

Explore the waterfalls of Estrella Falls, Palawan

Secrets of Palawan - 6 Days

Go deep into the Philippines' "last frontier" to discover beaches, rainforests, and waterfalls that few travelers explore. See endemic cockatoos in their natural habitat, snorkel coral reefs, and meet the Indigenous Batak people. This unique trip takes you away from crowds and lets you experience Palawan's nature at its best.

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