Best of the Philippines

Best of the Philippines

3,105 Views
7 Days From

$1469

Best of the Philippines

7 Days Starting in Manila, Philippines and ending in Cebu, Philippines

Visiting: Manila, Makati, Cebu, Bohol

Tour operator:

Indus Travels

Tour code:

IndTur365

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 6

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

5-99

Special diets catered:

Please Advise Request

Tour operated in:

English
From: $1469

NB: Prices correct on 21-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

about this trip



Experience the best of one of South East Asias hidden gems in this tour to the Philippines which brings you to historic and cosmopolitan Manila and then to the natural wonders of Cebu and Bohol. In Manila, see and learn about the many influences that the Spanish and Americans have had on the city, including visits to the American Cemetery, the Walled City of Intramuros and Quiapo Church. Move on to Cebu, where you will stay in a beach resort to relax and enjoy the tropical sun. While there, take a day-trip to Bohol, where you will visit the Philippine Tarsier Foundation, home to the tarsier, the smallest primate in the world. Finally, see the famous natural wonders of the region like the Chocolate Hills and the beautiful Loboc River before making your way back to Manila to end the tour.

Highlights

  • Explore the capital, Manila, including the influences that the Spanish and Americans had on its development

  • Soak up the sun in a beach-front hotel in Cebu

  • Get to know the smallest primate on earth, the tarsier

  • See the famous Chocolate Hills and how they resemble chocolate candy drops

  • Cruise upstream on the beautiful Loboc river and enjoy lunch on a floating restaurant

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Manila (Arrival)

Location: Manila

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: A. VENUE HOTEL

Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to the hotel for check-in.




Overnight in Manila

Day 2: Manila (B/-/-)

Location: Makati, Manila

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: THE MANILA HOTEL

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, todays tour begins at the financial district of Makati including Fort Bonifacio and the American Cemetery, before moving into the city of Manila, the countrys capital. See Rizal Park, named in honour of the countrys national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. After a brief photo stop, proceed to the historic walled city of Intramuros. Travel along cobbled streets to San Agustin Church, the countrys oldest stone church and view its collection of ecclesiastical icons, vestments and other religious articles. Across from the church is the Casa Manila, a reproduction of a 19th century house equipped with Oriental and European decor, as well as Philippine antique furniture. Continue to Fort Santiago, Manilas main line of defense against invaders from the sea. The stone fort guards the entrance to the city from Manila Bay and this is the site of many tragic moments in Philippine history. From the Fort, drive to Quiapo, Manilas central district, often referred to as the heart of Manila with its market, pilgrimage Church of the Black Nazarene, jeepney terminals and bazaars. Then proceed to the Chinese cemetery, where the mausoleums are as big and as elaborate as houses and where fusions of Buddhist and Christian religions are very much in evidence.  


Overnight in Manila

Day 3: Manila - Cebu (B/-/-)

Location: Manila, Cebu

Accommodation: Resort

Accommodation Name: COSTABELLA RESORT

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning after breakfast you will be transferred back to the airport for a flight to the island of Cebu. Upon arrival, at the airport in Cebu, you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.




Overnight in Cebu

Day 4: Cebu - Bohol - Cebu (B/L/-)

Location: Cebu, Bohol, Cebu

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: DUSIT THANI MACTAN

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Bohol located east of Cebu is an island province that is naturally beautiful and historically rich. Its capital city, Tagbilaran, has tree-lined plazas and stone buildings, including a church built by the Jesuits in the 18th century. The province has gained a reputation for having some of the best beaches in the country. Along its coastline are numerous isles including Panglao, Cabilao, Mahinay and Lapinpin, which are excellent diving spots. Leave your resort early in the morning and take the ferry for a day trip that will introduce you to the wonders of Bohol. First stop is the Philippine Tarsier Foundation in the town of Corella, which serves as a refuge for the smallest primate in the world, the tarsier. Observe these rare, nocturnal creatures in their natural habitat and be amazed by their agility as they move about, leaping from one tree to another, and swivel their heads nearly 360 degrees! Then proceed to Baclayon, make a short stop at the historical Blood Compact site, where Spains Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and Datu Sikatuna, a native chieftain, sealed their friendship with a symbolic drink. Just nearby is Baclayon Church, one of the many stone churches in Bohol. Having lost only its bell tower and portico recently to a strong earthquake, the church still maintains a museum containing a vast collection of religious art, ecclesiastical vestments, as well as librettos of church music inscribed in Latin on animal skins. The tour continues, passing by Bilar a man-made forest, thick with undergrowth of towering mahogany trees grown on the fringes of the highway leading to the Chocolate Hills, the countrys geological wonder. From a viewpoint stop and admire the view of the hills which change color with the season. In summer, the hill grasses turn deep brown - resembling chocolate candy drops, hence the name, ‘Chocolate Hills. Then on to Loboc River where a cruise upstream on a floating restaurant is made more enjoyable with a delectable lunch served on board. Return to the hotel by late afternoon.  


Overnight in Cebu

Day 5: Cebu (B/-/-)

Location: Cebu

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: DUSIT THANI MACTAN

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy your day at leisure or perhaps join our optional tour.




Overnight in Cebu

Day 6: Cebu - Manila (B/-/-)

Location: Cebu, Manila

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: THE MANILA HOTEL

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today you will be transferred back to the airport for a flight back to Manila. On arrival at the airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.




Overnight in Manila

Day 7: Manila (Depart) - Usa / Canada (B/-/-)

Location: Manila

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today you will be transferred back to Manila international airport to check in for your flight back to the USA / Canada.

What's Included

  • 06 nights accommodation on Twin Sharing Basis at listed hotels or similar

  • Daily buffet breakfast at the hotel

  • 01 lunch in Bohol

  • Arrival and departure transfers

  • Transportation in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle

  • Service of experienced English-speaking local guides

  • Half day Manila city tour

  • Full day Bohol city tour

  • Entrance fees to the monuments

  • Domestic flights: Manila – Cebu - Manila

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What's Not Included

  • Items of a personal nature, tips & gratuities

  • International flights for those purchasing land only

  • Arrival & departure transfers for land only passengers

  • Items not mentioned as being included

Videos

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour provides 06 nights accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at listed hotels or similar.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, daily buffet breakfast at the hotel and one lunch in Bohol are included in the tour package.

  • What kind of transportation is used during the tour?

    Transportation is provided in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle.

  • Are there any guided tours included in the itinerary?

    Yes, the tour includes a half-day Manila city tour and a full-day Bohol city tour with experienced English-speaking local guides.

  • Are entrance fees to monuments included in the tour package?

    Yes, entrance fees to the monuments are included in the tour package.

  • Are domestic flights included in the tour package?

    Yes, domestic flights from Manila to Cebu and back to Manila are included.

  • What activities are available on the leisure days in Cebu?

    On leisure days in Cebu, you can enjoy the beach-front hotel or join optional tours.

  • What is the significance of the Chocolate Hills in Bohol?

    The Chocolate Hills are a geological wonder in the Philippines. They change color with the season, turning deep brown in summer, resembling chocolate candy drops.

  • What can I expect during the Loboc River cruise?

    During the Loboc River cruise, you will enjoy a delectable lunch served on a floating restaurant while cruising upstream.

  • What is unique about the Philippine Tarsier Foundation visit?

    The Philippine Tarsier Foundation serves as a refuge for the smallest primate in the world, the tarsier. You can observe these rare, nocturnal creatures in their natural habitat.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Yes, but only in case it was previously agreed by both sides and arranged by us.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Our e-document package includes all local contact details, daily itinerary, airline e-ticket information, service vouchers, and travel tips which should be everything you require to go on your trip.

  • If I need one, who is responsible to obtain my visa?

    You are responsible for obtaining the proper travel documents for the destinations on your itinerary, including having a passport that is valid for at least 6 months before the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the Visa section in the Know Before You Go document for the countries you will be visiting.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    No, not as standard. Solo travellers can book and occupy their own room for a supplement.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    We have been organizing unforgettable trips since 2001.

  • Can I arrange flights via Indus Travels, too?

    In some cases, yes. Indus Travels can provide flights from/to selected departure points in the USA. If you would like a quote inclusive of flights, please let us know and we'll be happy to check the details for you!

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    Changes to an existing reservation up to the Final Payment Date, whatever the cause, will incur a $100 per person amendment fee, potential loss of any supplier fees (such as non-refundable event tickets, park permits, and sea cruise reservations) plus any costs for replacement services. On/ after the Final Payment Date, the $100 change fee is no longer valid, instead cancellations terms apply.

Reviews of this operator

Terry Kratz (Google Reviewer)  

Thanks to Indus and Nicko...

13-Sep-2024

Thanks to Indus and Nicko Cruise for a great trip down the Danube. I had not been on a river cruise prior to this and found it a very relaxing way to travel and see some European highlights. The ship was superb. The staff served great meals, were friendly and accommodating. As far as the tours and city visits, they all gave us a reasonable amount of time and insight into the location we were visiting to come away with a sense that we had a good glimpse of the city and were able to spend some free time in the city as well. A special thanks to Dhruv our fearless leader from Indus who was a great organizer. Lastly - nice to meet all of you in our group. terry

Joyce Elyse Baumbach  

The tour organized by Indus Travels ...

16-Dec-2022

The tour organized by Indus Travels was flawless. Hotels, tours, and transportation all impressed me. We had a very relaxing time knowing what was happening at each stage. The scenery and activities were fantastic and did not disappoint. The highlight of the trip was definitely Galapagos Islands.

Indus Travel Reviews
Sirjirick Gibson (Google Reviewer)  

This is my fourth Indus...

20-Aug-2024

This is my fourth Indus trip coming up. I love the way the app works. I love the way the trips are organized and small groupings. I love the accommodations. I love the transportation it’s just top-notch service for individual traveler. I just completed my fourth trip with This and I have already signed up for my up-and-coming fifth trip with Indus travel. Once again, I have to say the service of this is absolutely top-notch service. I am so grateful to have this opportunity to travel and style and comfort. The organization of this is top-notch service from start to finish.. I have to say this sales management and associate team is absolutely amazing which basically allows me to continuously book my trips through end this. My travel life is to travel to as many countries as possible, and it will all be done through excellent job. I would like to give a special thanks to Rachel P. And Ravi., I have been involved with Rachel for the past five years and I will continue to travel within due to the fact that she makes this such a pleasant experience. Great job to her..

Neeraj Nauhwaar (Google Reviewer)  

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with...

07-Dec-2023

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with them visiting Cairo and a 03 Nights Cruise from Luxor to Aswan in May. All services were perfect since the time we arrived at the airport, we were met by a hospitable Indus Representative who helped us with the purchase of local SIM and currency exchange. He was always there in time to assist for transfers. The Amwaj Cruise which we took from Luxor to Aswan was a Gem. We had great guides and all sightseeing worked like a clockwork. We enjoyed visiting Karnak Temples, Temples of Edfu, Kom Ombo and the boat ride to see Phillae Temple. Evening entertainment on cruise were great and engaging. In Cairo and Aswan, we had ample leisure time to explore on own, the Pyramids were impressive and visiting Khan e Khalili was fun. Overall and impressive and enjoyable tour, Thanks to Indus Travels!

Dhruv R (Google Reviewer)  

Recently went on a Rhine...

09-Jun-2023

Recently went on a Rhine River Cruise, a first for me. I must say the experience was exceptional, their tagline says. The group I was with were some of the most fun and interesting set of people I've ever traveled with. The ground transportation arrangements were top notch and comfortable. Variety in menu that we were provided with in the cruise was astounding. I was a bit worried if they'd have much options for me as I'm a vegetarian. But they not only had options, the taste was something I'd savor for foreseeable future. There's a reason Rhine cruises are popular owing to it's serene and picturesque route. Guided tours were very informative and gave us a bit of an insight of German culture. We had good amount of time to explore the towns on our own too. Strasbourg and Cochem were my favorite stops. Luckily the weather worked in our favour and it didn't rain the way it was predicted originally. No one from our group wanted the tour to end. If this trip was any indication, I can't wait to book my next trip with Indus Travels.

Dennis V (Google Reviewer)  

My wife and I travelled...

02-Jul-2024

My wife and I travelled with Indus on the essentials Portugal Spain Switzerland and Italy tour last October and had the time of our lives. The tour was very well planned we visited a lot of the highlights the countries had to offer. The tour went very smoothly with knowledgeable guides and courteous drivers. We would highly recommend travelling with Indus.

Gloria Parra (Google Reviewer)  

Indus Travel runs a highly...

04-Mar-2024

Indus Travel runs a highly professional organization. From customer service to brochures, bookings, tour guides, etc. and the consideration for their customers is superb. This was the first time I had travelled with Indus Travels. We took the Taste of Portugal Tour. Group numbers are small, accommodation comfortable and food excellent. The expert guide who accompanied us was outstanding - passionate, informative, engaging, and entertaining. This company is obviously at the heart of the itinerary planning, and attention to detail is second to none. I would highly recommend this company to anyone wanting a fun, relaxed, educational vacation with fine food - they will deliver! We will never forget this trip and we are already planning for another one to Wonders of Italy, Vienna, Budapest, and Prague.

Olivia  

Best of Italy

16-Nov-2022

Indus Travels did an excellent job planning the trip to Italy. We were on Best of Italy in Oct 2022. The tour was 5 stars all the way. The hotel accommodations were comfortable and clean & guides were top-notch.

Indus Travel Reviews
Kim Eisnor (Google Reviewer)  

We had an absolutely amazing...

12-Sep-2024

We had an absolutely amazing experience on our first ever river boat cruise. The itinerary and ports were incredible, the ship was beautiful, the food was great (especially Mario’s Grill), the excursions were excellent and the staff was lovely. We had such a memorable trip with our group and made lots of memories that will last a lifetime.

DJWalter Capote (Google Reviewer)  

We were looking for a...

07-Oct-2023

We were looking for a customized, small group tour. We took a chance on Indus without knowing much about the company. We just returned from our trip to Greece and are more than highly please and satisfied with our experience. They planned an amazing itinerary, booked amazing hotels, hired knowledgeable tour guides and arranged high quality transportation services. Everyone went above and beyond to please us. We are already planning a trip for next year (2024) and will definitely use Indus to do so.

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Prices last published on 20-Nov-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Indus Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 45 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of indus travels charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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