Make the Most of Your Time in Philippines

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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 Siargao and take a surf lesson in the Philippines surf capital or watch surfers from iconic Cloud 9 Beach
Map of 5 Days in the Philippines - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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.

Enjoy three days exploring Siargao Island and its treasures like the Magpupungko Rock Pool on a highlights tour
Map of 1 Week in the Philippines - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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.

On an itinerary to Bohol, you'll spend some time contemplating the distintive Chocolate Hills
Map of 10 Days in the Philippines - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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.

Night markets and street food await when the sun goes down in Manila
Map of 2 Weeks in the Philippines - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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.