
Philippines
The Philippines offers an enchanting blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and exciting adventures. With its idyllic white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush landscapes, it’s a tropical paradise that caters to every traveller’s desire. Explore the stunning archipelago of over 7,000 islands, each with its own unique charm. From the famous Palawan’s Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the vibrant marine life of Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, the Philippines offers an array of natural wonders waiting to be discovered.
Beyond its breathtaking landscapes, the Philippines boasts a rich tapestry of cultures and traditions. Immerse yourself in the lively markets and colourful festivals, where you can witness traditional dances, music, and arts. Engage with the warm and hospitable locals, who are more than willing to share their stories and heritage. For adventure enthusiasts, the Philippines offers opportunities for hiking, diving, surfing, and even spelunking in its many caves. Trek through the stunning rice terraces of Banaue, go island hopping in the Visayas, or swim with the whale sharks in Oslob – each experience is an invitation to embrace the vibrant spirit of the country.
The culinary scene in the Philippines is equally captivating, reflecting the country’s multicultural history. Indulge in a diverse array of dishes, from savoury adobo and sinigang to sweet halo-halo and leche flan. Filipino cuisine is a delicious fusion of indigenous flavours, Spanish influences, and Asian spices. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Manila, relaxing on the pristine beaches of Boracay, or hiking to the peak of Mount Apo, the highest point in the Philippines, the country promises an unforgettable journey of exploration and immersion.
Essential Information
BEST TIME TO VISIT
DEC – FEB – Lovely warm temperatures are ideal for sunning at the beach.
MAR – APR – Great for experiencing festivals and cultural events.
MAY – OCT – This is the rainy season and can be humid.
FLIGHT TIME
From the UK there are several airlines that offer direct flights to the Philippines which are around 14 hours.
TIME ZONE
GMT/BST +8
CURRENCY
CURRENCY
Philippine Peso
IDEAL FOR
Experience some of the best beaches in the world, an abundance of biodiversity, and endless opportunity for exploration over 7000 islands.
HOW TO GET THERE
Direct flights are available to multiple different Filipino airports. To get from island to island it is easiest to get the ferry.
LANGUAGE
The official language is Filipino, but many people speak a degree of English.
IDEAL TO COMBINE WITH
For a longer stay away, you could visit Thailand, Malaysia, or Indonesia.
Our Favourite Places in Philippines
Suggested Itineraries

Best of the Philippines
16 day holiday
Boracay, Cebu, El Nido, Bohol, Manila, Baguio, Sagada, Banaue,
This 16-day tour through the Philippines is a deep dive into the country’s diverse culture, landscapes, and heritage. Starting in Manila, you’ll venture north to Banaue and Sagada to see ancient rice terraces and learn about traditional Ifugao life and burial customs. From there, the journey continues through Baguio’s scenic mountain landscapes before returning to Manila. In the central Visayas, Bohol introduces you to the world’s smallest primates—the tarsiers—and the iconic Chocolate Hills, along with river cruises and colonial landmarks.
The adventure then shifts to the stunning islands of El Nido and Boracay, where white-sand beaches, turquoise lagoons, and rich marine life offer a perfect escape. Whether kayaking through limestone cliffs, learning to fish the traditional way, or simply unwinding by the sea, there’s something for every pace of travel. The tour ends in Cebu, where you explore its Spanish colonial history and vibrant cultural heritage before heading home, making this itinerary a rich and varied exploration of the Philippine archipelago.

Culture and Cuisine of the Philippines
14 day holiday
Manila, Bacolod, Saravia, Silay, Bago City, Sagay, Murcia, Talisay, Cebu, Argao
This 14-day cultural journey through the Philippines offers an in-depth exploration of food, heritage, and local artistry, centred around Manila, Bacolod, and Cebu. Starting with a visit to a sustainable coffee farm in Cavite, the tour continues to Negros Occidental, where you’ll take part in hands-on experiences such as jewellery-making, crafting stone and wire art, and preparing regional dishes like kinilaw and pinipig. Visits to ancestral homes, eco-parks, and organic farms reveal a rich tapestry of traditions, while immersive workshops connect you with the everyday rhythms of local life.
In the second half of the tour, you’ll explore the highlands and coastal communities of Cebu. Highlights include harvesting vegetables on a sustainable farm, learning how to weave puso rice packets, and sampling traditional sweets in Argao. The itinerary is ideal for travellers seeking a slower pace and genuine engagement with the people and places that shape Filipino identity, all while enjoying thoughtful, locally sourced cuisine and regional hospitality.

UNESCO World Heritage Tour of the Philippines
14 day holiday
Puerto Princesa, Iloilo, Manila, Vigan, Sagada, Banaue
This 14-day UNESCO World Heritage Tour in the Philippines offers a well-rounded exploration of the country’s most treasured cultural and natural landmarks. Starting in Manila, the tour includes historical sites in Intramuros and modern urban highlights like Makati’s museums and the American Cemetery. From there, travellers head north to witness the ancient Batad and Banga-an Rice Terraces in Banaue, and explore Sagada’s hanging coffins and caves. The journey continues to Vigan, where Spanish colonial architecture and cobbled streets have been carefully preserved.
Further south, the tour visits Iloilo and Guimaras Island to experience the region’s baroque churches, mango farms, and rural charm. The final days are spent in Palawan, home to the Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and natural wonder. Along the way, guests enjoy guided tours, cultural encounters, and local cuisine, with the option to extend the trip to beach destinations such as Coron or Bohol. Designed for heritage enthusiasts, this itinerary blends immersive learning with scenic travel across the Philippines.

Highlands to Islands
12 day holiday
Manila, Banaue, Sagada, Vigan, Palawan, El Nido
The 12-day Highlands to Islands tour takes travellers through a sweeping journey across the Philippines, blending cultural discovery with breathtaking scenery. Starting in Manila, the tour delves into the city’s colonial history before heading north to the awe-inspiring Banaue Rice Terraces, where visitors hike through traditional Ifugao villages. From there, it’s on to Sagada for a look into ancient burial customs and stunning limestone landscapes, followed by a visit to the heritage city of Vigan with its cobbled streets and preserved Spanish architecture. This land-based section offers a deep cultural immersion, showcasing the Philippines’ rich indigenous and colonial heritage.
The journey then shifts to the islands, flying south to El Nido in Palawan. Here, travellers can unwind on powder-white beaches and explore lagoons, coral reefs, and hidden coves on a full-day island-hopping tour. There’s also time to enjoy the resort’s leisure facilities or take part in optional activities.

Expereince Coron
9 day holiday
Manila, Coron, Busuanga Mountain
The 9-day Expedition Coron tour blends urban exploration with remote island adventure, offering a vivid contrast between the buzz of Manila and the serene beauty of Coron. Begin by navigating Manila like a local, using ferries, jeepneys, and tricycles to explore historical districts including Intramuros, Chinatown, and Malacañang. A bamboo bike tour and a horse-drawn carriage ride offer a unique way to soak up the city’s heritage, while a guide shares insights into its colonial and cultural roots. This immersive city experience is ideal for adventurous travellers keen to understand local life beyond the usual tourist trail.
After a domestic flight to Coron, the tour takes a slower, more tranquil pace. Island-hop by motorised banca and kayak to reach hidden lagoons and wildlife-rich areas far from the crowds. Snorkel in Dugong Bay, where you may spot the elusive sea cow in its natural habitat, guided by members of the local Tagbanua community. A mountain bike day trip through the rugged countryside of Busuanga adds an energetic twist, passing villages, rivers, and rainforest. With plenty of time for relaxation at the coastal resort, this itinerary offers a balance of action, nature, and authentic cultural engagement.

Island Odyssey: A Visayan Circuit Tour
14 day holiday
Manila, Dumaguete, Apo Island Marine Sanctuary, Siquijor, Bohol, Cebu
The Island Odyssey: A Visayan Circuit Tour is a 14-day journey through the central Philippines, offering a blend of cultural discovery, natural beauty, and coastal relaxation. Starting in Manila, you’ll explore Spanish colonial history in Intramuros and visit one of the world’s oldest Chinatowns before heading south to Dumaguete. From there, enjoy world-class snorkelling at Apo Island, home to vibrant marine life and giant sea turtles. The adventure continues on the mystical island of Siquijor, where folklore and history meet at waterfalls, ancient trees, and charming churches.
Next, sail to Bohol to experience its most iconic features: the Chocolate Hills and the tiny, wide-eyed tarsiers. After a river cruise and a visit to local villages, you’ll have a free day to relax before boarding a ferry to Cebu. In Cebu, the tour includes a scenic trip to Kawasan Falls, where a jungle trek leads to turquoise pools perfect for a swim. With free days built in for unwinding at beachfront resorts, this itinerary gives a well-paced and varied view of the Visayas, ideal for travellers seeking a mix of activity and calm.
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01442 879787
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