Discover Luzon

Duration
7 days
Price from
$2,432 pp.
Location
Philippines, Southeast Asia
Rice terraces baneu philippines pexels

Trip Highlights

  • Canoe ride to Pagsanjan Falls
  • Heritage walk in Taal
  • Masungi Georeserve hanging bridges

What's Included

  • 6 nights accommodation
  • All transfers
  • Activities & guides where mentioned

Discover the Heart and Soul of the Philippines

Explore Luzon’s diverse landscapes, heritage towns, and cultural treasures on this enriching journey through the heart of the Philippines.

This 7-day journey through the Philippines offers a rich blend of natural beauty, colonial heritage, and cultural discovery. Begin in Manila, where centuries of history unfold within the walls of Intramuros and the bustling streets of Chinatown. Walk through time in historic landmarks, then swap the city for the rugged limestone landscapes of the Masungi Georeserve. From there, head to the dramatic gorge of Pagsanjan Falls, where a traditional canoe ride takes you through rainforest-fringed waters. Explore the heritage town of Taal, with its ancestral homes, museums, and remarkable churches that speak to the country’s storied past. With thoughtfully guided experiences and time to relax, this itinerary offers a well-rounded introduction to the Philippines, combining adventure, culture, and comfort.


Trip Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive in Manila

Bureau of the treasury with flags manila Philippines unsplash

Upon arrival at Ninoy Aquino International Airport, you'll be met by your driver and transfer guide who will escort you to your hotel. If your room isn’t ready upon check-in, you can store your luggage at reception and take some time to relax by the pool or explore the hotel’s surroundings. This is a chance to unwind and settle into your new environment after the long flight.

Spend 2 nights at The Peninsula Manila – Premier Suite

Day 2 Intramuros & Chinatown

Cathedral in the Intramuros manila Philippines

After breakfast, meet your private guide and driver for a full-day exploration of Manila’s layered history. Begin at Fort Santiago and stroll through Intramuros, visiting the Rizal Museum and Casa Manila, a restored 19th-century colonial home. Stop at San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore its museum. In the afternoon, head to Binondo, the world’s oldest Chinatown, for a short walking tour through its bustling streets before ending at the fascinating Chinese Cemetery. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon.

Day 3 Masungi Georeserve Trek

Day 4 Pagsanjan Falls Adventure

Day 5 Travel to Taal

Day 6 Heritage Tour of Taal

Day 7 Departure from Manila

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Nia

Philippines Expert

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.

Elizabeth Spells

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July, 2024
Orla Rhodes

Just back from another amazing F&W organised trip to Namibia with the family (8 adults). Having been there before, Alistair tailored our trip to include our favourite locations and added a new one for us, Okonjima Plains camp, which we loved.The quality of accommodation and guiding, activities, food and drinks was exceptional throughout. Although not inexpensive I felt it was good value for the level of luxury we had. Kwessi Dunes, Shipwreck lodge, Ongava, Okonjima with pit stops Windhoek (city tour recommended ), Swakopmund (Sandwich Harbour and Walvis Bay tour) and Grootberg lodge (best sundowner drive )

June, 2024
Arnhild Schia

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July, 2024
Henri Papenfus

Back home again, basking in the joys of a superb safari. Every aspect you arranged for us, including linking up with Mack Air and Wild Horizons locally to transport us. The choice of camps, Camp Hwange in Zimbabwe and Muchenenje Safari Lodge in Botswana, was spot on and exactly what we had hoped for - ideally situated, comfortable, in good surroundings, and with excellent wildlife on the doorstep and throughout the wider country. The service staff in each looked after us very well, catering was excellent, and the game guides were professional, knowledgeable and helpful. The weather was, as usual for that part of the world, also good at the time of our visit. Blue skies and stunning sunsets. Warm but not too hot during the day, although quite cold at sunrise when viewing game. The viewing started. You made us happy, and we recommend you to similar safari enthusiasts with confidence.

June, 2024
AC

Far and Wild went above and beyond to make sure my trip to Zambia was special. I would definitely recommend them and their services to anyone wanting to travel to Africa.

May, 2024
Tiny

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April, 2024
Stodge

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March, 2024
Fiona C

It was a dreamy holiday on the Kenyan Coast - Far and Wild, their efficiency and professionalism allowed us to relax and be the happiest family alive !! We cannot fault them, their care and understanding of what we wanted from a holiday ensured we had the most memorable trip. We will be booking with them again for sure!

March, 2024

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