Seven-Day Adventure in the Philippines: Trekking and Sightseeing

Saturday, December 2: Explore Manila City

In the morning, start your adventure by exploring the bustling capital city of the Philippines, Manila. Visit Intramuros, the historic walled city, and discover its rich Spanish colonial architecture. In the afternoon, head to Rizal Park, a green oasis in the heart of the city, and take a peaceful stroll. As the evening sets in, make your way to the vibrant Makati district, known for its lively night markets and street food stalls.

• Intramuros: Entry fee – PHP 75, Time spent – 2 hours
• Rizal Park: Free entry, Time spent – 1-2 hours
• Makati Night Market: Variable costs, Time spent – Evening

Sunday, December 3: Trek to Mount Pulag

Embark on an adrenaline-pumping trek to Mount Pulag, the third highest peak in the Philippines. Start early in the morning to catch the spectacular sunrise from the summit. Trek through breathtaking landscapes and explore the diverse flora and fauna of the area. In the evening, relax and enjoy the starry night sky at the camping site.

• Mount Pulag Trek: Tour package – PHP 3,500, Time spent – Full day
• Camping equipment rental: PHP 500

Monday, December 4: Discover Banaue Rice Terraces

Witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the Banaue Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the stunning landscapes sculpted by ancient Ifugao tribes thousands of years ago. Take a guided hike through the terraces and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region. In the evening, immerse yourself in the local culture and savor traditional Filipino cuisine.

• Banaue Rice Terraces Tour: PHP 1,500, Time spent – Full day
• Local dinner experience: Variable costs

Restaurants

• Breakfast: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Cafe in the Sky, offering stunning panoramic views of the rice terraces. A typical meal costs around 200 PHP per person.
• Lunch: Indulge in delicious Filipino cuisine at Greenview Restaurant, conveniently located near the terraces. Try their specialty dishes such as crispy pata and sinigang. Expect to spend about 300 PHP per person.
• Dinner: For a memorable dining experience, head to the Native Village Inn and Restaurant, known for its traditional Ifugao dishes. Immerse yourself in the local culture while enjoying their mouthwatering dishes. Budget around 400 PHP per person for a meal here.

Tuesday, December 5: Island Hopping in El Nido

Embark on a thrilling island hopping adventure in El Nido, Palawan. Explore hidden lagoons, pristine beaches, and limestone cliffs. Discover the underwater world with snorkeling or diving activities. Admire the vibrant marine life and relax on the picturesque beaches. In the evening, enjoy a beachfront dinner while watching the breathtaking sunset.

• El Nido Island Hopping Tour: PHP 1,200, Time spent – Full day
• Snorkeling or diving equipment rental: PHP 500

Wednesday, December 6: Swim with Whale Sharks in Oslob

Embark on an unforgettable adventure and swim with gentle whale sharks in Oslob, Cebu. Witness the majestic creatures up close in their natural habitat. After the exhilarating experience, visit the nearby Tumalog Falls and take a refreshing dip in its cascading waters. In the evening, enjoy a seafood feast at a local restaurant.

• Whale Shark Encounter: PHP 1,000, Time spent – Half day
• Tumalog Falls: Entrance fee – PHP 20, Time spent – 1-2 hours
• Seafood dinner: Variable costs

Restaurants

• Start your morning with a delicious Filipino breakfast at Casa Bonita, located near Oslob. Enjoy local favorites such as Tocino (sweet cured pork) and Tapsilog (marinated beef with garlic fried rice and egg). Average cost for a meal is about PHP 150 per person.
• For lunch, head to Lantaw Native Restaurant in Moalboal, a scenic coastal town near Oslob. Indulge in fresh seafood dishes like grilled squid and crispy pata (deep-fried pork knuckles). Average cost for a meal is about PHP 300 per person.
• End your adventurous day with a delightful dinner at Panagsama Beach in Moalboal. Try the mouthwatering dishes at The French Coffee Shop, a cozy restaurant known for its delicious French cuisine with a Filipino twist. Average cost for a meal is about PHP 400 per person.

Thursday, December 7: Explore Chocolate Hills in Bohol

Discover the unique geological formations known as the Chocolate Hills in Bohol. Trek up to the viewing deck to witness the enchanting landscape of over 1,200 cone-shaped hills. Visit the Tarsier Sanctuary and spot the iconic tarsier, one of the world's smallest primates. In the evening, take a relaxing river cruise in Loboc River and enjoy a buffet dinner on board.

• Chocolate Hills Tour: PHP 1,000, Time spent – Full day
• Tarsier Sanctuary: Entrance fee – PHP 60, Time spent – 1 hour
• Loboc River Cruise with Dinner: PHP 600, Time spent – Evening

Friday, December 8: Conquer Taal Volcano

Embark on an exciting trek to Taal Volcano, one of the world's smallest active volcanoes. Reach the viewpoint and admire the scenic vista of the crater lake. Take a boat ride across Taal Lake and hike up to the volcano's summit. In the evening, relax and enjoy the warm hospitality of Tagaytay City while savoring delicious local cuisine.

• Taal Volcano Trek: Tour package – PHP 2,000, Time spent – Full day
• Boat ride: PHP 1,500
• Dinner in Tagaytay: Variable costs

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For adventure seekers, don't miss the opportunity to try canyoneering in Kawasan Falls, Cebu. Experience the thrill of jumping, sliding, and swimming through canyons and waterfalls. Another off-the-beaten-path destination is Sagada, where you can explore caves, hike to Hanging Coffins, and witness the enchanting beauty of the Echo Valley.

Check hotel and flight prices here.