Philippines - 12 Days - Tourismo Filipino

Philippines – 12 Days

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This comprehensive tour of the Philippines offers a rich tapestry of experiences, combining urban exploration, natural wonders, and cultural interactions. Beginning in Manila, the bustling capital, you’ll delve into a vibrant mix of history and modern city life. The adventure then takes you to the awe-inspiring Pinatubo trekking, where you’ll not only witness the stunning volcanic landscape but also interact with the indigenous Aeta community. In Batad, be mesmerized by the amphitheater-like rice terraces, a marvel of traditional farming. Baguio, known as the Summer Capital, offers a cool respite with its pine-clad hills and artistic culture. The Hundred Islands in Alaminos will enchant you with its multitude of islets, perfect for beach hopping and snorkeling. Experience the unique thrill of visiting Taal Volcano, one of the world’s smallest active volcanoes. The journey to Pagsanjan reveals exhilarating boat rides leading to the majestic Pagsanjan Falls. In Palawan, you’ll explore the mesmerizing Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Finally, cap off the tour with island hopping in El Nido, known for its breathtaking lagoons, limestone cliffs, and pristine beaches. This tour is an extraordinary blend of adventure, nature, and cultural immersion in some of the most iconic and diverse destinations in the Philippines.

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Day 1 / Arrival in Manila

Arrival in Manila, airport pickup, and direct transfer to the town of Pampanga. Overnight stay at one of the hotels in Pampanga.

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Day 2 / Aetas Village - Banaue

After breakfast, we will continue towards the Aetas Village, located at the foot of the Pinatubo volcano, where the first people to inhabit the Philippines have lived for many years. After spending about two hours visiting and conversing with the locals, you will proceed to Banaue, which is approximately an 8-hour drive north. From there, tours to the rice terraces depart.

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Day 3 / Trip to Batad Village or the Banaue Rice Terraces

After breakfast, you will be picked up by a local vehicle called a "jeepney," which is the primary mode of transportation for locals in the Philippines, similar to a military jeep used by the US during World War II. On this day, you have two options to choose from: A. Visit the Banaue Rice Terraces, which is an easier tour that does not require long and challenging hikes. Along the way, you can see the beautiful rice terraces of Banaue and the surrounding villages, as well as a viewpoint overlooking the terraces. B. (Recommended) Visit the Batad Rice Terraces, which is a slightly more challenging tour but does not require extreme fitness. The trek to Batad includes a steep descent to the village on a rugged and graded trail. This trek offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience, allowing you to witness how the Ifugao people built the terraces in the stunning mountainous region, with the village of Batad at its center.

The journey to Batad takes about 1.5 hours by jeepney, followed by an additional hour of walking to the village. The return journey is also approximately the same duration. At the end of the day, you will return to the town of Banaue for your overnight stay. There is also an option to extend your stay in Batad for an additional night, where you can stay in very basic guesthouses.

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Day 4 / Banaue to Baguio

After breakfast, you will continue your journey towards Baguio, the central city in northern Philippines. The road to Baguio will take approximately 6-8 hours, offering breathtaking views of the largest vegetable terraces in Asia, also known as the "Vegetable Bowl of Asia." Upon your arrival in Baguio, you'll have the opportunity to explore the city and discover a different aspect of northern Philippines. In the city, there is a road called "Session Road" where you'll find numerous restaurants and shops where you can purchase souvenirs for your family back home. After a long day, you will stay overnight in one of the hotels in Baguio.

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Day 5 / Short Tour in Baguio - Travel to Alaminos

After breakfast, you will embark on a short tour of Baguio. You will head towards "Mines View," where you will be greeted by a breathtaking valley. Behind you, there is an interesting and colorful market where you can spend about an hour shopping for those interested, taking photos of various people from northern Philippines who have come to sell their merchandise, various art objects, and different types of plants that are displayed for sale. Following the brief tour in Baguio, you will travel to the "Hundred Islands" area and stay overnight in Bolinao, where your hotel is located. From there, the tour to the Hundred Islands will commence on the following day.

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Day 6 / Day Trip to the Hundred Islands - Manila

In the early morning, after breakfast, you will depart for Alaminos, where you will enjoy a boat trip among the 100 islands spread across a beautiful bay. During the boat trip between the islands, you'll have the opportunity to stop at some of them for swimming and snorkeling for those interested. Of course, the highlight of the tour will be a delicious lunch on one of the islands, featuring various vegetables and tropical fruits. After the tour of the 100 islands, you will travel back to Manila to spend the night before another enjoyable day of touring the Philippines.

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Day 7 / Combined Day Trip to Taal Volcano and Pagsanjan Falls

On this day, you will depart early after breakfast for a combined day trip to Pagsanjan Falls and Taal Volcano. At 07:00, you will be picked up from your hotel and head to the town of Tagaytay, located about two hours south of Manila. Upon arrival in Tagaytay, you will board a boat that will take you to the shores of Taal Volcano. The boat ride lasts approximately 20 minutes, and from there, you will begin your trek up the volcano. You can also choose to hike up the volcano if you prefer. Taal Volcano is considered one of the smallest volcanoes in the world, and its last eruption was in 1977, causing damage to the surrounding area. When you reach the crater of the volcano, you'll be greeted by a breathtaking view of the volcano and the lake within it, often referred to as the "lake within a lake." After your adventure at Taal Volcano and a delicious lunch at a nearby restaurant, you will proceed to Pagsanjan Falls, a highly popular attraction in the Philippines. Pagsanjan Falls is located in the town of Pagsanjan, about a 1.5-hour drive from Tagaytay. Along the way, you will pass by vast coconut plantations. Upon arrival, you will transfer to a small canoe locally known as a "bangka," which will take you on a thrilling river journey towards the falls. The river journey will be filled with lush greenery, high cliffs, and even monkeys jumping from tree to tree. At the end of the river, you will reach the majestic Pagsanjan Falls, where you'll have the opportunity to take a bamboo raft ride that goes right under the waterfall. It's an exhilarating experience amidst the stunning natural beauty of the area. After spending some time at the falls, you will return to the resort for a hearty lunch. In the late afternoon, you will start your journey back to Manila, with an estimated return time of 18:00. **Please note that you can choose to do only one of the mentioned activities on Day 7 if you prefer a less packed and less travel-intensive itinerary.

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Days 8-11 / Manila - Palawan

Early in the morning, you will be picked up and transferred to the Manila airport for the delightful trip to Palawan, the most beautiful island in the Philippines. There, you will stay at charming resorts or hotels of your choice. On the arrival day, you will enjoy a serene boat ride among the islands of Honda Bay, where you'll encounter pristine white sandy beaches, coconut trees, and crystal-clear waters with a view that seems straight out of a movie! The following day, an underground river adventure awaits you. This underground river recently earned the prestigious title of being one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature, and it has become an incredibly popular destination in recent years, not only due to its recognition but also because of its stunning surroundings. During your stay in Palawan, you'll have the opportunity to explore its beautiful beaches, go island-hopping, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking nature that surrounds you. Enjoy your unforgettable journey in the Philippines!

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On the following day, you will enjoy a free day in either Puerto Princesa or El Nido, depending on your choice and hotel location. Then, on the 11th day, you will travel to Puerto Princesa Airport for your return flight to Manila.

**There is an option to return earlier on this day and explore various sites in Manila, as well as do some last-minute shopping and arrangements before the flight.

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