A Week Exploring the Natural Beauty of the Philippines

Sunday, October 1: Manila

Begin your nature-filled journey in the bustling capital city of Manila. Start your morning exploring the serene Rizal Park, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the metropolis. In the afternoon, visit the Manila Ocean Park to marvel at a variety of marine life. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely stroll along Manila Baywalk and enjoy the breathtaking sunset.

• Rizal Park: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Manila Ocean Park: Estimated cost - PHP 800, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Manila Baywalk: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Monday, October 2: Banaue

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Banaue, known for its stunning rice terraces. In the morning, take a scenic drive to Banaue and immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of the rice terraces. In the afternoon, explore the Batad Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and hike to the Tappiyah Waterfalls. Spend the evening experiencing the warm hospitality of the locals.

• Banaue Rice Terraces: Estimated cost - PHP 200, Time spent - Full day
• Batad Rice Terraces: Estimated cost - PHP 300, Time spent - 5-6 hours
• Tappiyah Waterfalls: Estimated cost - PHP 20, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• Imbulalakaw Restaurant: Start your day with a hearty Filipino breakfast at Imbulalakaw Restaurant, located near Banaue. Indulge in local specialties such as tapsilog (marinated beef with garlic fried rice and fried egg). Average cost for a meal is about 200 PHP per person.
• Sagada Brew: For lunch, head to Sagada Brew and enjoy their delicious sandwiches, salads, and pastas made with fresh local ingredients. Don't forget to try their famous Sagada Orange Pekoe tea. Average cost for a meal is about 300 PHP per person.
• Bonfire Bistro: End your day with a delightful dinner at Bonfire Bistro. This cozy restaurant offers a variety of mouthwatering grilled dishes and international cuisines. Don't miss their signature Bonfire Burger. Average cost for a meal is about 400 PHP per person.

Tuesday, October 3: El Nido

Fly to the stunning island of El Nido. In the morning, embark on an island-hopping tour to discover the breathtaking limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters of Bacuit Bay. In the afternoon, relax on the pristine beaches of Nacpan or Las Cabanas. As the evening approaches, enjoy a sunset cruise and witness the magical colors of the sky.

• Island-Hopping Tour: Estimated cost - PHP 1,200, Time spent - Full day
• Nacpan Beach: Estimated cost - PHP 100, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Las Cabanas Beach: Estimated cost - PHP 100, Time spent - 3-4 hours

Wednesday, October 4: Bohol

Head to the enchanting island of Bohol. In the morning, visit the iconic Chocolate Hills and enjoy panoramic views from the observation deck. In the afternoon, cruise along Loboc River and savor a delicious lunch while surrounded by lush greenery. As the evening sets in, explore the mesmerizing Hinagdanan Cave and witness thousands of twinkling fireflies.

• Chocolate Hills: Estimated cost - PHP 50, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Loboc River Cruise: Estimated cost - PHP 450, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Hinagdanan Cave: Estimated cost - PHP 50, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Thursday, October 5: Puerto Princesa

Travel to the captivating city of Puerto Princesa. In the morning, explore the stunning Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at its unique rock formations. In the afternoon, relax on the white sandy beaches of Honda Bay or go snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. As the evening approaches, indulge in a seafood feast at the vibrant Puerto Princesa Baywalk.

• Underground River: Estimated cost - PHP 1,200, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Honda Bay: Estimated cost - PHP 1,500 (boat rental), Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Puerto Princesa Baywalk: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Friday, October 6: Siargao

Fly to the picturesque island of Siargao, a paradise for nature lovers and surf enthusiasts. In the morning, visit the breathtaking Magpupungko Rock Pools and take a refreshing dip. In the afternoon, explore the enchanting Sugba Lagoon and go kayaking amidst the lush mangroves. As the evening sets in, unwind at Cloud 9, a world-renowned surf spot, and witness skilled surfers riding the waves.

• Magpupungko Rock Pools: Estimated cost - PHP 50, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Sugba Lagoon: Estimated cost - PHP 1,500, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Cloud 9: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Saturday, October 7: Coron

Conclude your nature expedition in the stunning archipelago of Coron. In the morning, embark on an island-hopping tour and witness the mesmerizing beauty of Kayangan Lake and Twin Lagoon. In the afternoon, snorkel at the vibrant coral reefs of Siete Pecados Marine Park. As the evening approaches, relax in the Maquinit Hot Springs and soak in the therapeutic waters.

• Kayangan Lake: Estimated cost - PHP 200, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Twin Lagoon: Estimated cost - PHP 200, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Snorkeling at Siete Pecados Marine Park: Estimated cost - PHP 200, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Maquinit Hot Springs: Estimated cost - PHP 300, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions and natural wonders loved by locals, be sure to visit Palaui Island in Cagayan Valley, where you can explore pristine beaches and hike to Cape Engaño. In Bohol, venture to Anda to discover its unspoiled white sand beaches and vibrant underwater world. Don't miss the stunning Tinuy-an Falls in Bislig, Surigao del Sur, often referred to as the "Niagara Falls of the Philippines." These lesser-known destinations offer a chance to experience the untouched beauty of nature away from the crowds.

For hotel and flight prices, check out Kayak.