A perfect blend of activity and relaxation
A family-friendly tour of the Southern Islands of the Visayas
Prepare for an adventure across tropical islands! Start in gorgeous Bohol, checking into a beach resort, and spending two days immersed in nature, cruising rivers, and exploring historical and cultural treasures. Next, ferry over to mystical Siquijor, where we can swim under waterfalls, learn traditional healing rituals and uncover old legends. Another quick ferry ride will take you to lively Dumaguete, where you'll feast on market food, soak in colorful street life, and uncover storied churches. Whilst in Dumaguete head over to Apo Island where you can enjoy the marine sanctuary brimming with sea turtles to snorkel with. For your last stop, it's off to a remote island resort nestled between beach and jungle, where you and the kids can truly unwind and reflect on your rich journey across these Philippine islands. New friendships, cultural wisdom, natural splendor, and adventure await you and your family.
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The itinerary…
Day 1: International departure
Head to your nearest international airport and board your flight bound for the Philippines.
Day 2: Arrive Philippines
Upon arrival at Manila Ninoy Aquino Airport, collect your bags and head for your flight to Panglao International Airport. You will be met and greeted in Panglao, then transferred to the Bohol Beach Club, where you will stay for the next two nights. After checking in, have a well-deserved rest at the resort.
Day 3: Bohol day tour
Depart early to see rare Philippine tarsiers at the Tarsier Foundation. Marvel at these tiny primates agilely leaping between trees and swiveling their heads. Pass through the towering mahogany Bilar Forest on the way to the Chocolate Hills, brown grassy mounds resembling chocolate drops. Stop to admire the hills' changing colors by season. Proceed to a relaxing Loboc River lunch cruise upstream. On return, visit 1869 Santa Monica Church, with sturdy arches supporting a pathway to the convent. Admire the intricate hand-carved altar, unique in design. Arrive back at your resort by late afternoon after exploring Bohol's natural and cultural wonders.
Day 4: Off to Siquijor
After breakfast, transfer to Tagbilaran Seaport to take the ferry to (Larena) Siquijor. Upon arrival at Larena Seaport, transfer to Coco Grove Resort, set amid a grove of coconut trees along a white sand beach, for check-in. You will stay here for two nights. The rest of the afternoon is free to enjoy the beach and surroundings.
Day 5: Siquijor day tour
Visit the mystical 400-year old Balete Tree that locals believe is inhabited by spirits and provides the village water. See the 1884 St. Isidore Church and Convent, the largest and one of Asia's oldest. Refresh at Cambugahay's three-tiered waterfalls, perfect for swimming. Browse the shell collection at the Shell Museum, exhibiting shells found around Siquijor. Witness a healer perform Bolo-bolo, removing impurities from a patient using a black stone, pipe, and glass of water. Stop at the first parish built on Siquijor, 1783's St Francis of Assisi Church and Bell Tower. End at Capilay Lake, a weekend picnic spot fed by natural springs where locals gather.
Day 6: Siquijor - Dumaguete
After breakfast at the resort, transfer to Siquijor Seaport for your fast ferry transfer to Dumaguete. Upon arrival, depart for your Dumaguete City Tour. Drive to the campus of Siliman University, with its interesting Museum of Philippine Folklore, sporting prowess, and its projects for environmental conservation. From the university, head to the public market to browse the lively stalls, the stoneware and weaving centers, the old churches, and the city’s colorful seaside Rizal boulevard. After the conclusion of the tour, you will be dropped off at the Pura Vida Resort for check-in, where you will spend the next two nights.
Day 7: Apo Island Snorkelling and Diving
After breakfast, set off for a 30-minute drive from Dumaguete to Malatapay, Zamboangita. In Malatapay, take a motorized outrigger boat for a 45-minute trip to Apo Island. The island is known for its diverse marine life, and it is mostly visited by avid divers and snorkelers. The Apo Marine Sanctuary is one of Asia’s successful community-managed marine reserves. Enjoy snorkeling and swimming with the sea turtles. Lunch will be served at Apo Island Beach Resort. You will return to Pura Vida Resort mid-late afternoon, where the evening is yours to enjoy as you please.
Day 8: Dumaguete – Sumilon Island
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before transferring to Sibulan Seaport. There you will take the ferry to Lilo-an Seaport then continue with further transfer to Sumilon Wharf. Upon arrival wait for shared boat transfer to Sumilon Island. The entire transfer from (Dauin Resort) to Dumaguete until Sumilon island might take approx. 2-3 hrs. Upon arrival at Sumilon Island, you will check into Bluewater Sumilon Resort where you will stay for the next two nights. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy the resort's amenities.
Day 9: Free day on Sumilon Island
Your day is free to enjoy the island at your leisure with the family. Take part in the myriad activities offered by the resort and around the island.
Day 10: Departure day
Depending on your flights home, you can opt to transfer overland to Cebu Mactan International Airport (4-5 hour drive) or take a 2 hour drive and a boat ride to get to Dumaguete airport for your international departure.
Day 11: Arrive home
Land back in your home country after an amazing journey to some of the Philippines most exciting destinations.
Duration: 10 nights
Location: Philippines holidays, East and Southeast Asia
Price: £1245pp
From £1,245 pp based on three-six people booking, excluding international flights.
The trip includes all accommodations and activities specified above. Rooms and meals are as below:
- 2 nights at Bohol Beach Club Resort, Panglao - deluxe room, breakfast included.
- 2 nights at Coco Grove Resort, Siquijor Island - deluxe room, breakfast included.
- 2 nights at Pura Vida Resort, Dumaguete – deluxe room, breakfast included.
- 2 nights at Bluewater Sumilon Resort, Sumilon Island - deluxe room, breakfast included.
Also includes
- All transfers (car, ferry, and boat) and guides that are specified as included.
- Tours mentioned in the itinerary.
- Local, English-speaking tour coordinator.
- Snorkelling gear and guide on the Apo Island tour.
This trip excludes:
- Single Supplements.
- International flights to/from the Philippines.
- Internal flights in the Philippines.
- Meals not mentioned as included.
- Entrance fees and activities not mentioned as included.
Tailor this trip around your preferred dates, your budget and your ideas.
Our favourite Philippines trip ideas
Popular Philippines holidays
When to go to the Philippines
A month-by-month guide of when to visit the Philippines
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
January is a great time to visit the Philippines. It offers pleasant weather with cooler temperatures, making it ideal for exploring cities like Manila and experiencing the Sinulog Festival in Cebu. Waters are clear for diving and snorkelling.
February
February continues the favourable weather, suitable for beach activities and island-hopping in Palawan. It's an excellent time for cultural events and exploring the Ifugao Rice Terraces.
March
March is still a good time to visit, with comfortable temperatures. Enjoy the Panagbenga Festival in Baguio and explore the beaches of Boracay. Waters are perfect for water sports.
April
April is ideal for island adventures and water sports. Explore the beaches of El Nido and enjoy the Pahiyas Festival in Lucban. It's warm but pleasant for outdoor activities.
May
May is generally good, but it marks the beginning of the wet season in some regions. Enjoy the colorful Flores de Mayo celebrations and dive in Apo Reef.
June
May is generally good, but it marks the beginning of the wet season in some regions. Enjoy the colorful Flores de Mayo celebrations and dive in Apo Reef.
July
July continues the rainy season. Explore the lush rainforests of Mindanao and enjoy cultural experiences. Coastal activities are not advisable.
August
August still sees rainfall, so focus on cultural experiences. Explore historical sites in Cebu and enjoy local festivals. Beach activities are limited.
September
September provides pleasant weather with fewer crowds. Explore the cultural gems of Luzon, hike Mount Pulag, or immerse yourself in the rich history of Corregidor Island.
October
October has some rainfall but is still good for travel. Attend cultural events in Manila, explore the culinary scene, and visit historical sites like Intramuros.
November
November marks the start of the dry season in a few regions. Enjoy the beauty of Banaue Rice Terraces, dive in Apo Island, and explore the beaches of Bohol.
December
December is a popular time to visit, with pleasant weather and festive celebrations. Experience Christmas traditions in the Philippines and enjoy the holiday spirit in cities like Manila and Cebu. Beach activities are great.
Speak to a Philippines expert today.
A tailor-made itinerary just for you.
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Alistair
Managing Director