Duration
11 days / 10 nights
Price Per Person
Destinations

The Philippines, an archipleagic nation consisting of over 7,000 islands and islets, is a tropical destination offering some of the world's most stunning beaches, mountains, diverse cultures, indigenous traditions, and rich history. Discover some of the Philippines' classic destinations on this 11-day journey which takes you from the bustling capital Manila to stunning hand-carved ancient rice terraces in the northern mountains, indigenous cliff-side burials of Sagada, and down to the beach paradise of El Nido where sunshine, warm clear waters, and pristine white sands round out your trip.

This itinerary is an example. It’s designed to inspire you and provide you with thoughtfully curated ideas. You can choose to do this exact itinerary or completely personalize it. All trips are 100% bespoke.

Highlights

  • Ancient Rice Terraces: Carved by hand into the mountainside over 2,000 years ago by the Ifugao tribe, the dramatic Banaue rice terraces are a striking sight to behold and a must-see wonder of the world.
  • Macabre Rituals: The remote mountain town of Sagada is best known for the centuries-old coffins hanging along cliff faces.
  • Karsts and Lagoons: A beach destination worlds-away from the party-central likes of Boracay, El Nido offers stunning green-carpeted karsts, turquoise waters, and plentiful small islands with quiet beaches.

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Manila

Begin your journey through this archipelagic nation in the densely-populated capital city, Manila. You will be met upon arrival at the airport and transferred via private car to your hotel. Check in and freshen up before heading out to explore the city. Head to the oldest Chinatown in the world which dates back to the early 1590s and tells of the history of Chinese traders who came before the Spanish period. Nowadays, this neighborhood is a popular spot to buy affordable quick and tasty Chinese-Filipino foods. After a few snacks and visiting a couple of old Chinese temples, get a taste of modern day Manila at Bonifacio Global City, a lifestyle district with megamalls, interesting history and entertainment museums, golf club, spas, restaurants, and boutiques. Here, get a whirlwind history lesson at the Ayala Museum which has exhibits showcase different periods from the country's rich and varied past. In the late afternoon, you get can a sense of how the after-work crowd unwinds at Mercato Centrale, a food park with plenty of food stalls and casual seating under a large tented area. While you are here, why not get a taste of local favorites such as halo-halo and sisig.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Outstanding Service: Guests rave about the staff at Fairmont Makati, from the front desk, concierge, and housekeeping professionals to the expert bartenders and chefs.

Fitness Forward: The hotel’s fitness and spa facilities are especially well-equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and creatively planned classes. The spacious fitness center alone occupies some 928 square feet.

Indulgent Cuisine: Fairmont Makati’s culinary offerings include “live culinary theater,” handcrafted pastries, and artisan cocktails.

See Hotel
Fairmont Makati Preferred Hotel

Day 2

Manila

This morning, take a walking tour of historic Intramuros. The original 16th century walls of this fortified old city still stand, and the area’s period buildings make for a fascinating walk through time. Highlights in this area include Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church, and Manila Cathedral. Then, head to the heart of the old city and explore Quiapo district, known for its church and market, one of the biggest in the country. Make a stop at the Coconut Palace, originally commissioned by former First Lady Imelda Marcos as a government guest house. It was offered to the Pope upon his visit in 1981 but was refused as it was too opulent. It has, however, housed other prominent visitors including Brooke Shields and Muammar al-Gaddafi. Round out the day with a stroll along the Manila Baywalk, the premier place to watch the sunset in the city.

Manila
Manila

Day 3

Banaue

Today you travel north to Banaue. What once was a nine-hour drive is now made a quicker journey with a flight to Cauayan and three-hour drive to the terraces. Upon arrival, have lunch and freshen up at your hotel before taking to the lush terraces of Hapao for a leisurely hike along its gentle slopes. Enjoy the bucolic views as you pass through small friendly communities and witness the locals tending to their paddies.

Hotel Options
About

Opened in early 2024, Banaue Grandview Hotel is the most upscale property in the Banaue area. Spacious rooms are fitted with modern comforts and amenities, hardwood floors and furnishings, and large panoramic windows that offer sweeping views of the famed rice terraces.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 4

Banaue

Experience the full majesty of this UNESCO-protected area at Batad rice terrace, an immense and impressive sight. This hand-carved amphitheater of rice fields curve in long layers around the valley as far as the eye can see. The terraces here have stone walls, unlike others in the region that have mud walls. Enjoy a morning of leisurely hiking and exploring this amazing area. Today you will also visit Bangaan Village, a small farming community with traditional wooden homes snuggled into lush misty terraces. Meet and talk with the villagers, and share a cup of tea or coffee while taking in the idyllic setting.

Banaue
Banaue

Day 5

Sagada

Travel onward by car to the small town of Sagada, a few hours away. En route, stop by the Bontoc Museum which showcases the rich culture of the ancient Igorot tribes of the area. Upon arrival, head to Echo Valley to see the hanging coffins, a tradition practiced by the animist Sagadans. It was believed that putting their dead along the cliffside brought the deceased closer to the gods, and this method of burial was reserved for select tribespeople. Then, visit Lumiang Cave, a different burial site that holds 100 ancient coffins stacked on top of each other. The tradition of placing coffins in caves is still practiced today by a sub-group of the Igorot but it is seldom practiced as it is a costly burial method involving animal sacrifices.

Hotel Options
About

Located in the north of the Philippines, Masferre Country Inn and Restaurant is a very simple guesthouse in Sagada. Conveniently-located on Sagada’s prime tourist trail, the Masferre Hotel offers WiFi in public areas, laundry service, and dry cleaning, as well as a massage parlour on site, in an atmosphere reminiscent of a mountain lodge.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 6

Vigan

Most of today is spent traveling to Vigan, taking in the beautiful mountain scenery on the way. Arrive in town by late afternoon. Stretch your legs with a walking tour around town. Vigan is a well-preserved colonial Spanish town and a World Heritage Site, with largely intact architectural influences from the Philippines, China and Europe. Pick up a memento at a pottery boutique and enjoy authentic Ilocano cuisine in a local restaurant.

Hotel Options
About

Step back in time with a stay at Hotel Luna, a unique hybrid of hotel and museum located in the city of Vigan in the Philippines. Nestled in the heart of the incredible architecture and intangible history of Vigan, a classified Heritage Village, Hotel Luna itself is a sight to be seen.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Vigan
Vigan

Day 7

Manila

This morning, drive two hours north to Laoag airport to fly back to Manila. Spend the rest of your day at leisure. We recommend stepping out in the evening for a nightlife tour around the trendy Poblacion neighborhood, a burgeoning artist hub packed with intimate cafes, hidden bars, art workshops, and contemporary restaurants.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Outstanding Service: Guests rave about the staff at Fairmont Makati, from the front desk, concierge, and housekeeping professionals to the expert bartenders and chefs.

Fitness Forward: The hotel’s fitness and spa facilities are especially well-equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and creatively planned classes. The spacious fitness center alone occupies some 928 square feet.

Indulgent Cuisine: Fairmont Makati’s culinary offerings include “live culinary theater,” handcrafted pastries, and artisan cocktails.

See Hotel
Fairmont Makati Preferred Hotel
Manila
Manila

Day 8

El Nido

Finally today you begin the last leg of your Philippines journey, rounding out your trip with a tropical beach stay in the south. Fly to El Nido, located on the northern tip of Palawan island. A short drive to the pier and a speedboat ride later, you arrive at El Nido Pangulasian Island resort, a luxury island hideaway with well-appointed villas, a pristine 750-meter stretch of white sand beach, and backdrop of tropical forest. With only 42 villas on the whole island, you can unwind in paradise undisturbed.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Getting to and from the beautiful Pangulasian Island Resort is a relatively simple process, with an airport only a 25 minute boat ride away from the hotel.

History: The Palawan area where this hotel is located is known as one of the last ecological frontiers of the Philippines, and still retains much of its rustic, natural charm.

Service: The Pangulasian Island Resort combines its five-star service with the traditionally warm and friendly hospitality for which the Philippines is known.

See Hotel
El Nido Pangulasian Preferred Hotel

Day 9

El Nido

Spend your day at leisure. El Nido is famed for its clear turquoise waters, limestone formations, hidden lagoons, and many islands with white sand beaches. Get to know the reefs around your resort or charter a boat and go island-hopping. Pangulasian Island resort also curates intimate activities upon request such as a private dinner on the beach, private sunset cruise with canapes, and ocean activities.

El Nido
El Nido

Day 10

El Nido

On your penultimate day in paradise, and the last full day on your Philippines adventure, the day is in your hands. Idle on the beach to your heart's content or continue exploring El Nido's islands as you wish. For a unique experience, rent a clear kayak and explore around Cadlao island which is home to wildlife such as monkeys, big lizards, and hornbill birds.

Day 11

Departure

Squeeze in one last dip in the waters before you make your way back to the mainland for your flight to Manila and connection onward.

Suggested Hotel For Days 1–2

Fairmont Makati
Preferred Hotel

Fairmont Makati

Manila’s Fairmont Makati is located at the heart of the Philippines’ premier art and business district of Makati, which ranks among the world’s busiest centers of commerce and culture. Although directly connected to Manila, Makati is typically considered a highly modernized, cosmopolitan city of its own thanks to its dense population, as well as its ample concentration of multinational and local businesses. Fairmont Makati has cemented a place among the capital’s finest five-star hotels thanks to its classy amenities and top-flight hospitality team. In terms of dining, the hotel’s unique offerings promise to satisfy the gastronomic desires of even the most discerning guests. And what’s more, the hotel is located within walking distance of some of Manila’s most sought-after attractions, including the Zuellig Building, 6750, Ayala Museum, the Glorietta Shopping Complex, and Greenbelt – one of the country’s most fashionable shopping malls. The sprawling metropolis of Manila beckons with a little bit of something for everyone, from culturally immersive explorations into the city’s music and art scenes to day trips adventuring among the country’s 7,100 islands. Whatever the journey, Fairmont Makati welcomes guests with a safe haven of five-star luxury and relaxation amid the urban landscape of the capital city.

Suggested Hotel For Days 3–4

Banaue Grandview Hotel

Banaue Grandview Hotel

Opened in early 2024, Banaue Grandview Hotel is the most upscale property in the Banaue area. Spacious rooms are fitted with modern comforts and amenities, hardwood floors and furnishings, and large panoramic windows that offer sweeping views of the famed rice terraces. Select rooms have private terraces. There is an in-house restaurant with local and Continental options, as well as a bar and lounge. Other features include a garden, room service, concierge service, complimentary WiFi throughout the property, and 24/7 front desk.

Suggested Hotel For Day 5

Masferre Country Inn

Masferre Country Inn


Located in the north of the Philippines, Masferre Country Inn and Restaurant is a very simple guesthouse in Sagada. Conveniently-located on Sagada’s prime tourist trail, the Masferre Hotel offers WiFi in public areas, laundry service, and dry cleaning, as well as a massage parlour on site, in an atmosphere reminiscent of a mountain lodge. The hotel’s restaurant is also quite renowned for its epicurean delights, with a wide-ranging menu featuring Filipino, Western, and Asian dishes, and it’s often referred to as the best restaurant in town. Another guest favorite is the selection of powerful photographs featured by the hotel, taken by the late Sagada-born photographer Eduardo Masferre. 


Suggested Hotel For Day 6

Hotel Luna

Hotel Luna


Step back in time with a stay at Hotel Luna, a unique hybrid of hotel and museum located in the city of Vigan in the Philippines. Nestled in the heart of the incredible architecture and intangible history of Vigan, a classified Heritage Village, Hotel Luna itself is a sight to be seen. Located in a decorative, four-storey colonial building, the hotel features fine pieces of Philippine art, from Juan Luna masterpieces to new items from contemporary artists. Guests can explore the artwork or spend lazy post-sightseeing afternoons lounging by the outdoor pool - located in the hotel’s courtyard - followed by a cocktail in the ornate Chula Saloon Bar. Afterwards, they may enjoy dinner at the in-house restaurant Comedor, feasting on Spanish dishes and gazing at the incredible art pieces adorning the walls, and take in a nightcap and a spectacular view of the city from Azotea, the rooftop patio. 


Suggested Hotel For Day 7

Fairmont Makati
Preferred Hotel

Fairmont Makati

Manila’s Fairmont Makati is located at the heart of the Philippines’ premier art and business district of Makati, which ranks among the world’s busiest centers of commerce and culture. Although directly connected to Manila, Makati is typically considered a highly modernized, cosmopolitan city of its own thanks to its dense population, as well as its ample concentration of multinational and local businesses. Fairmont Makati has cemented a place among the capital’s finest five-star hotels thanks to its classy amenities and top-flight hospitality team. In terms of dining, the hotel’s unique offerings promise to satisfy the gastronomic desires of even the most discerning guests. And what’s more, the hotel is located within walking distance of some of Manila’s most sought-after attractions, including the Zuellig Building, 6750, Ayala Museum, the Glorietta Shopping Complex, and Greenbelt – one of the country’s most fashionable shopping malls. The sprawling metropolis of Manila beckons with a little bit of something for everyone, from culturally immersive explorations into the city’s music and art scenes to day trips adventuring among the country’s 7,100 islands. Whatever the journey, Fairmont Makati welcomes guests with a safe haven of five-star luxury and relaxation amid the urban landscape of the capital city.

Suggested Hotel For Days 8–10

El Nido Pangulasian
Preferred Hotel

El Nido Pangulasian

Located on a private island with breathtaking scenery comparable to Vietnam's spectacular Halong Bay, Pangulasian Island is the first and only luxury accommodation available in this pristine hideaway setting. Known as the “Island of the Sun”, guests at Pangulasian can enjoy stunning views of the sunrise and sunset from the expansive white sandy beach stretching over 2400 foot. The resort has 42 select palm-thatched beach villas built with a contemporary Filipino flair. The high-end amenities include an infinity pool, restaurant, a private dining area, beach bar, poolside grill, boutique, library, gym, spa, hiking trail with viewing deck, five-star dive center and a marine sports center. The deluxe abodes rest either on stilts above the lush flora and fauna or beside the beach or pool, all just a stones throw from warm inviting water. The villas, decorated with a neutral palate and natural materials, are spacious with their own private balcony (some have private pools and bath tubs), complimentary Wi-Fi, international TV channels, iPod dock, tea and coffee making facilities and mini-bar.

Similar Itineraries

Adventure and Relaxation in Batanes and El Nido

Begin your Philippines adventure by “shooting the rapids” in dugout canoes. Then relax with island time touring around Batanes before returning to adventure by trekking to the 20th century’s most powerful volcano. Balancing your adventure and relaxation experiences, you’ll finish your 13-day holiday by lounging on El Nido’s lush white-sand beaches.

Duration
13 days / 12 nights
Price Per Person
From $9,100
See Itinerary

Caramoan Peninsula Explorer: From Manila and Luzon to Donsol and Siargao

ATV rides, swimming alongside the world’s largest fish, and relaxing on lush gold-sand beaches are all in store on this 15-day luxurious adventure through the Caramoan Peninsula in the tropical Philippines chain. Enjoy helicopter rides and a full day’s pampering at an exclusive spa on this one-of-a-kind holiday.

Duration
15 days / 14 nights
Price Per Person
From $43,200
See Itinerary

Colors & Cultures of Negros, Philippines

An incredible fusion of Latin and Asian culture, the Negros is home to a fascinating atmosphere in the Philippines. This 13-day itinerary takes you to an authentic Filipino festival, inside old-world churches, into the vibrant barrier reefs and inside a culture unique the world over found only in the Negros-chain.

Duration
12 days / 11 nights
Price Per Person
From $4,700
See Itinerary

Culture and Diving in the Philippine Islands

Divers and snorkelers alike will delight in this 17-day two-part luxurious holiday in the Philippines. The first half is spent exploring the Filipino culture, natural features and history. The second half is spent exploring the active corals, several dive sites and lush white-sand beaches from a lush cruise charter.

Duration
17 days / 16 nights
Price Per Person
From $17,200
See Itinerary

From the Relaxing Philippines to Fast-Paced Hong Kong

Embark on an exciting 12-day adventure through the Philippines, starting in Manila, where you’ll visit Intramuros city, and continue on to the cobblestone streets of historic Vigan and Bohol’s chocolate hills. Round off the trip with a luxurious stay in Hong Kong, capturing the iconic skyline from Victoria Peak.

Duration
12 days / 11 nights
Price Per Person
From $8,300
See Itinerary

Heritage and Islands of the Philippines

Island hop through the idyllic Philippines on this 16-day luxury tour. Visit several of the country’s historical heritage sites, relax on serene beaches and experience Latin-Asian fusion cultures. Gorge on fresh local food in the popular markets. Search for lively fish as you snorkel Palawan's active coral reefs.

Duration
16 days / 15 nights
Price Per Person
From $11,400
See Itinerary

Island-Hopping in the Central Philippines

There’s no need to narrow down which heavenly island you will visit in on this 12-day trip through the Central Philippines island chain. Revel in luxury as you stay in the best hotels throughout your journey. Stroll along white-sand islets and snorkel alongside beautiful sea turtles on this exciting adventure.

Duration
12 days / 11 nights
Price Per Person
From $5,100
See Itinerary

Manila, Boracay & Pamalican: Cities & Beaches of the Philippines

Discover the most famous beaches and best-kept secrets of the Philippines in this luxurious tour of the islands. Live it up in the big city before plunging headlong into lazy days on Boracay, El Nido and Amanpulo, with stunning scenery and crystal waters.   

Duration
16 days / 15 nights
Price Per Person
From $12,580
See Itinerary

Pristine Palawan

Explore natural limestone caves and cliffs in Puerto Princesa, take a river cruise inside a subterranean cave and snorkel lively coral reefs. Stay in the finest hotels in the Philippines for complete relaxation as you enter the perfect gateway for discovering the country’s historical past on your 12-day luxury trip.

Duration
12 days / 11 nights
Price Per Person
From $8,000
See Itinerary
Why Remote Lands?

Exclusively Asia

With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.

Travelogues

An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands - a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.

What Others Say

Here is a small selection of the kind words our clients have said about us recently.