South-West Luzon Island

South of Manila, the provinces of Cavite, Laguna and Batangas make easy private day trips or short add-ons to a Philippines itinerary. Tourismo Filipino plans them with a private vehicle and driver from Manila. Tagaytay sits on a ridge about 650 m above sea level, 2 to 3 hours’ drive from Metro Manila, with views over Taal Volcano and its lake. In Laguna, Pagsanjan Falls is reached by a scenic boat ride, and Mount Makiling rises to 1,090 m beside Laguna de Bay. From Batangas port, ferries cross to Puerto Galera on Mindoro for beaches and diving.