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Island-Hopping in the Central Philippines

Duration
12 days / 11 nights
Price Per Person
Interests
Romance, Beaches, Island Retreats
Destinations
Philippines

When traveling to somewhere as beautiful as the Philippines, it can be difficult to pick a single island to visit. With this 12-day Island-Hopping in the Central Philippines itinerary, you don’t have to pick! The trip takes you through Manila, Bohol and Panglao, Siquijor, Dumaguete and Dauin. Get ready for plenty of sunshine, picturesque beaches, and the perfect dose of culture. 

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

  • Chocolate Hills: The Chocolate Hills of Bohol are one of the most famous sites in the Philippines, so named for the peculiar shape given to these karst mountains, which once lay on the bottom of the ocean. One legend claims these grassy hills are the aftermath of a battle between ancient giants hurling boulders.
  • Island of Fire: When the Spaniards first visited Siquijor, they called it “Isla del Fuego” due to the populations of fireflies lighting up the night. During the day, travelers can explore the isle's beaches and Cambugahay Falls.
  • Sea Turtles: In Dauin, sea turtles hatch throughout the year, though their birthing period is highest in summer. Even if travelers don’t spot them hatching, they can drop in the water at Apo Island to look for adults.

Day-by-Day

Day 1

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Manila »

Arrive in Manila, the capital of the Philippines and an ancient city with a rich history. Settle in to your hotel in the city center. Spend the rest of the day exploring the lively area. You will see the heavy Spanish influence in the quaint architecture.

Hotel Options

Day 2

Map ▲

Manila »

Spend the day immersed in the oldest district of the city - Intramuros. In the 16th century, the Spanish constructed their citadel, Fort Santiago, and the city walls to guard their stronghold from foreign invaders. When the Spanish were in power, everything outside the walled area was called “outside the walls.” The structures became a National Historic Monument in 1951. 

Manila
Manila

Day 3

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Bohol »

Take a short flight to the much more southern, pristine island of Bohol. You will be met at the airport by a guide and taken to a luxury hotel, where you can spend the day relaxing poolside or seaside. You will see the famous aquamarine water and dig your toes into the soft, white sand. The island is the tenth-largest in the Philippines and considered a naturally beautiful haven.

Hotel Options

Day 4

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Bohol »

Enjoy a full-day tour of the island today. Bohol is home to several beautiful sights. Climb up the gorgeous Chocolate Hills that resemble giant mole hills. Pay a visit to the tarsier sanctuary, where you can see several of the world’s smallest monkey species relaxing and at play. You will see several quaint Spanish churches and charming villages along the way.

Bohol
Bohol

Day 5

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Bohol »

It’s time to relax! Spend the day lounging seaside. Walk along the island’s several islets. Snorkel the crystal waters, looking at the active marine life weaving in and out of the corals. The water is warm and inviting for a leisurely swim.

Day 6

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Siquijor

Take a short ferry to Siquijor, known to the Spaniards as “isla del fuego” (island of fire) from the soft orange glow produced by the island’s active firefly population. The island has a mystical feel. The Filipinos believe the island possesses certain magical powers. There are several local healers living and working on the island - feel free to check it out for yourself!

Hotel Options
Siquijor
Siquijor

Day 7

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Siquijor

Take a complete island tour today. Enjoy the relaxed attitude of your surroundings. This beautiful mountainous island is known for its welcoming vibe. Chat with the local villagers and stock up on artisanal goods. Stroll among the lush greenery. Spend some time on the beaches, world-renowned for diving.

Day 8

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Siquijor

There’s no place quite like Siquijor to relax. Lounge comfortably on the fine sand or by your hotel’s pool. Explore the area’s waterfalls - Cambugahay Falls does not disappoint. There are hundreds of butterflies floating throughout the island - the butterfly sanctuary holds the largest concentrated population. Relax and enjoy a serene day in a tropical atmosphere.

Siquijor
Siquijor

Day 9

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Dauin

Enjoy a boat cruise as you travel from Siquijor to Dumaguete. Dumaguete is the largest and capital city of Negros Oriental. Continue on to Dauin - an island named for the supernatural beings once thought to occupy its magical shores. Check into your hotel and go for a swim in the pool to stretch your legs after a day spent traveling in the sea.

Hotel Options

Day 10

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Dauin

Today you have the rare opportunity to see turtles in their natural habitat. Seaturtles hatch throughout the year, although their birthing period is highest in the summer months. You may be lucky enough to see turtles hatching and making their birth journey to the sea. Enjoy a snorkeling excursion to Apo island and dive into the sea with the massive seaturtles. They love playing among the pristine reefs.

Dauin
Dauin

Day 11

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Dauin

It’s your last day on island time. Make the most of the sunshine and seawater. Snorkel through the colorful reefs in search of exotic marine life in the underwater garden. If you need a break from salt water, check out the area’s hot springs. The Mt. Talinis Geothermal Reserve is a gorgeous area in the inland of the island.

Day 12

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Departure »

After 11 full days of adventure, culture, seawater and sunshine, it’s time to say goodbye to the beautiful islands of the Philippines. Begin your journey back to Manila through Dumaguete. Upon reaching Manila, you have the option to either continue on to other adventures in the Philippines or return home. 

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.

With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, in the continent that our north American founders Catherine and Jay have adored and explored for decades, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.

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