Pearls of the Philippines

Upon arrival in Manila, make your own way from the airport to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure to rest or explore the city at your own pace.

After breakfast at the hotel, you begin a guided tour through Manila, the nation’s vibrant capital. Start in the financial district of Makati, passing Fort Bonifacio and the American Cemetery, before continuing to Rizal Park, dedicated to national hero Dr José Rizal.

Next, explore Intramuros, the historic walled city built during Spanish rule. Walk along the cobbled streets to San Agustin Church, the country’s oldest stone church, and admire its collection of religious artefacts. Across the street lies Casa Manila, a faithful reproduction of a 19th-century home featuring Oriental and European décor alongside antique Philippine furniture.

Continue to Fort Santiago, once Manila’s main line of defence and now a poignant reminder of the country’s colonial past. Drive on to Quiapo, the lively heart of Manila, known for its bustling market, the pilgrimage church of the Black Nazarene, and colourful jeepneys. End the tour at the Chinese Cemetery, notable for its elaborate mausoleums and unique blend of Buddhist and Christian influences.

Manila - Bohol. After breakfast, check out and transfer to the airport for your flight to Bohol. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

This morning, you will set out on a full-day tour of Bohol’s natural and cultural highlights. Begin at the Philippine Tarsier Foundation in Corella, a sanctuary for the world’s smallest primate. Observe these delicate nocturnal creatures in their protected habitat.

Continue to Baclayon, stopping at the Blood Compact Site, where a symbolic pact of friendship was sealed between Spanish explorer Miguel López de Legazpi and Datu Sikatuna. Visit Baclayon Church, one of the island’s oldest stone churches, which still houses a fascinating collection of religious art and vestments.

Travel through the scenic Bilar Man-made Forest and on to the iconic Chocolate Hills, whose grassy mounds turn cocoa-brown in the dry season. Conclude the day with a leisurely Loboc River cruise, enjoying a freshly prepared lunch on board as you drift past riverside villages. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon.

Spend the day at leisure enjoying Bohol’s beaches or exploring on your own. Alternatively, you may join the following optional excursion:

Optional: Full-day Pamilacan Island Tour with Lunch
Join a shared boat trip to Pamilacan Island, a tranquil and less-visited paradise off Panglao. Experience dolphin watching and spot sea turtles, tropical fish, and vibrant coral reefs in a serene, uncrowded setting.Meeting point: Abraham Bohol, Brgy Danao, Panglao, Bohol, Philippines

After breakfast, make your own way from your hotel to the airport for your return flight home.