Philippines Cultural Escape

Duration
10 days
Price from
$2,117 pp.
Location
Philippines, Southeast Asia
Filipino Ifugao Tribal Wooden statues and masks Philippines Canva Pro

Trip Highlights

  • Batad Rice Terraces trek
  • Vigan colonial heritage tour
  • Hanging coffins in Sagada

What's Included

  • 9 nights accommodation
  • All transfers
  • Activities and guides where mentioned

Discover the Heart and Heritage of the Philippines

A cultural journey through Luzon – from Manila’s Intramuros to the rice terraces of Batad and the heritage streets of Vigan

We created this trip for travellers who are drawn to heritage, history, and landscapes shaped by generations. On this journey you’ll explore the cultural heart of Luzon—walking through Manila’s storied Intramuros, trekking the sculpted rice terraces of Batad, and standing in silence before cliffside coffins in Sagada.

You’ll learn about the enduring traditions of the Ifugao people, sleep in mountain lodges and heritage homes, and trace Spanish colonial influence through cobbled Vigan.

It’s an itinerary that takes you into the Philippines’ past and present—thoughtfully paced, culturally rich, and rooted in connection to both people and place.


Trip Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival in Manila

Manila city skyline sunset Philippines min

Mabuhay! On arrival at Ninoy Aquino International Airport, you’ll be met by your driver and guide for a smooth transfer to The Henry Hotel—a charming, vintage-inspired retreat tucked away from the city buzz. It’s the perfect first taste of Manila: warm, welcoming, and full of character. The rest of the day is yours to unwind and settle in.

Spend 2 nights at The Henry Hotel Manila – Classic Room.

Day 2 Historic Manila: Intramuros and Chinatown

Cathedral in the Intramuros manila Philippines

After breakfast, your guide will take you on a journey through old Manila, beginning with a walk around Fort Santiago in Intramuros—the historic heart of the city. You’ll visit the Rizal Museum and learn about one of the Philippines' most revered heroes, then step into the past at Casa Manila and the beautifully preserved San Agustin Church and Museum.

After lunch, you'll go to the vibrant district of Binondo, the world’s oldest Chinatown. Explore the streets on foot, soaking up the scents, sights, and flavours before visiting the Chinese Cemetery, a fascinating and unique final resting place. You’ll return to your hotel with a fresh perspective on this ever-evolving city.

Day 3 Journey to the Highlands

Day 4 Batad Rice Terraces & Ifugao Culture

Day 5 Mountain Views & Cordillera Culture

Day 6 Echoes, Coffins & Coffee Trails

Day 7 Mountain Drive to Vigan

Day 8 Exploring Colonial Vigan

Day 9 Vigan to Manila via Laoag – Art, Architecture & Return

Day 10 Manila – Homeward Bound

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Nia pictures

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

I have just returned from the most amazing trip to Tanzania, booked with Far & Wild. Everything went so smoothly from the first time I spoke with them. The planning was great, the itinerary was perfect for us, and the lodges were amazing. We spent 10 nights with an amazing guide, travelling through Northern Tanzania and even got to see the migration, which was a lifetime ambition of mine. This wasn't our first safari, so we were nervous as to how it would compare, but it was spot on. We're particularly grateful that she suggested a private 'bush lunch' in the Ngorongoro Crater as the public picnic spot was very busy! I will certainly be using them again to book our next trip....we're thinking of a relaxing beach stay next time to get over the excitement of safari!

July, 2024
Orla Rhodes

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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

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March, 2024

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