Pearls of the Philippines
Itinerary
Fly overnight to Manila, the bustling capital of the Philippines and gateway to one of Southeast Asia's most diverse archipelagos. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.
Discover the rich history and culture of Manila with a tour of the old walled city of Intramuros, home to colonial churches, plazas and historic landmarks. Visit the colourful Jeepney Museum to learn about the Philippines' iconic mode of transport before travelling to Las Piñas, a lively district known for its local character, historic sites and enduring cultural traditions.
Fly to Northern Luzon and continue by road into the spectacular Cordillera Mountains. Along the way, stop to admire the stunning rice terraces of Mayoyao, carved into the mountainsides over 2,000 years ago. Arrive in Banaue, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery.
Explore the beautiful Hapao terraces for a scenic, easy walk through the lush landscapes, with visits to village houses and local schools along the way. At the village houses, enjoy a community-led rice wine-making demonstration. For those who wish, the walk can continue to the relaxing Bogya Hot Spring, where you can soak in the natural thermal waters surrounded by peaceful countryside scenery.
Journey through the scenic highlands to Sagada, one of the Philippines' most fascinating mountain communities. Visit the mysterious Hanging Coffins, suspended high on the cliffs according to ancient burial traditions, and explore the region's atmospheric burial caves before returning to Banaue.
Travel to Cauayan and fly south via Manila to the tropical island of Bohol, known for its lush countryside, unique wildlife and laid-back charm.
Explore Bohol's scenic interior, visiting the famous Chocolate Hills. Later, enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Loboc River, drifting past lush tropical scenery, palm-fringed riverbanks and peaceful rural villages while enjoying lunch on board, before visiting a sanctuary dedicated to the tiny Philippine tarsier, one of the world's smallest primates.
Visit a local cocoa farm to learn about traditional chocolate production and take part in a hands-on chocolate-making experience. Later, travel by ferry across the Visayan Sea to Cebu, the historic heart of the Philippines.
Explore Cebu City's colonial heritage, including landmarks linked to Ferdinand Magellan and the arrival of Christianity in the Philippines. Then, fly to Puerto Princesa on the island of Palawan, famed for its pristine natural beauty.
Travel to the spectacular Underground River, one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. Cruise through the dramatic limestone cave system, passing towering rock formations and cathedral-like chambers hidden beneath jungle-covered cliffs.
Spend the day exploring the crystal-clear waters and idyllic islands of Honda Bay, with opportunities to swim, relax and enjoy the tropical scenery. Later, take part in a Filipino cooking experience, gaining insight into local ingredients and techniques. End the day with a magical firefly-watching trip and dinner.
Fly to Manila, where modern city life meets rich cultural heritage. This evening, unwind with a refreshing drink at a stylish rooftop bar as you take in sweeping panoramic views of the glittering Manila skyline, then celebrate the end of your journey with a farewell dinner.
Transfer to Manila international airport for your flight home, arriving the following day.
Trip Inclusions
- Underground River: Journey through Palawan's spectacular Underground River
- Sagada: See the hanging coffins and burial caves
- Honda Bay: Island-hop across the crystal-clear waters of Honda Bay
- Chocolate Hills: Admire this incredible natural phenomenon in Bohol
- Discover the Hapao Rice Terraces: Journey through the verdant Hapao Rice Terraces, where visits to local homes and schools offer a glimpse into everyday life, before learning the art of traditional rice wine-making from the community that keeps these customs alive.
- Visit the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary: Visit the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary, home and refuge of the second smallest primate in the world. The sanctuary protects dozens of these tiny creatures throughout the area and is committed to initiatives to restore their natural habitats across the archipelago.
- Chocolate Making Experience: Immerse yourself in the flavours of the Philippines at a local cocoa farm, where you'll learn about traditional chocolate-making techniques from bean to bar, before crafting your own sweet creations in a hands-on workshop.
- City Garden Grand, Manila (4 star): Superbly located in chic Makati with lovely rooms and a great rooftop bar, City Garden Grand is a perfect option in Manila.
- Banaue Grandview Hotel, Banaue (4 star): Set on a hillside overlooking the mountains of Banaue, Banaue Grandview Hotel offers comfortable accommodation with sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. The hotel features well-appointed rooms, an on-site restaurant, and terrace areas ideal for relaxing, providing a convenient base for exploring the iconic Banaue Rice Terraces.
- Bohol Beach Club, Bohol (4 star): Bohol Beach Club is situated on the best stretch of white beach on Panglao Island. The resort is well laid out with excellent facilities, featuring bright, airy rooms and a superb restaurant serving local and international cuisine.
- Marco Polo, Cebu (4 star): Marco Polo is an international style hotel with great facilities including several dining options and an outdoor pool. Nestled in the prestigious Nivel Hills, the hotel provides a spectacular view of the city and Mactan Island.
- Four Points by Sheraton Puerto Princesa, Palawan (4 star): Four Points by Sheraton Puerto Princesa is set on the peaceful Sabang coastline, close to the Puerto Princesa Underground River National Park. The contemporary rooms feature private balconies or terraces, with subtle touches inspired by its tropical surroundings. Facilities include a swimming pool, beach access, restaurant, bar, spa and fitness centre.
- Breakfasts: 12
- Lunches: 11
- Dinners: 12
- International flights and current taxes (excluded if a land only option is selected)
- Domestic transportation
- Touring with guides and entrance fees
- 3 – 4 star accommodation
- Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
- Flight Inclusive rates only: These include airline fuel surcharge and taxes. Correct as of 1 July 2026. Please note supplements may apply if lead in economy rates are not available.
- Customary tipping amount of approximately US$65pp is paid locally in Philippines.
- Depending on airline schedules, you may depart and/or arrive on Day 2. Extra nights' accommodation (pre or post tour) or stopovers may be required at an additional cost.
- Flight Inclusive rates only: Based on departures from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide & Perth. Departures from other cities and flight upgrades available on request.
Wendy Wu's Go Beyond touring range are characterised by engaging cultural experiences, active adventures and getting off the beaten track. Read more
Wendy Wu include return international economy-class flights from Australia as part of their fully inclusive tours. Upgrades are available too! Read more
On all of our tours you will be escorted by a dedicated National Escort, tasked with the responsibility to keep you safe, happy, entertained and inspired. Read more
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Wendy Wu China & Central Asia (2026-28)
Dates & Pricing
Prices include air taxes and fuel surcharges, this amount is correct at time of brochure release and subject to change. Note air supplement may apply depending on airline availability and departure city. The majority of departures above will proceed or are guaranteed to depart (based on a minimum of 10 passengers). We will outline the status of your departure date in your quote along with all applicable discounts and specials.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Wendy Wu. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
