Embark on an immersive 2-month adventure across the breathtaking Philippines, where each day holds unforgettable experiences. This comprehensive itinerary navigates the best destinations, cultural gems, and top activities, ensuring an extraordinary journey. From idyllic islands to vibrant cityscapes, and authentic cultural encounters to thrilling adventures, this guide crafts a perfect balance for every kind of explorer. Use this flexible guide as your starting point, allowing you to tailor the activities based on your preferences and experience a truly personalised exploration of this tropical paradise!
Day 1-2:
Welcome to Manila – The Capital of the Philippines. The City balances nature, culture and history perfectly. Taste test the local street foods (especially the Adobo), or wander the museums to learn about the Philippine’s history.
- Fly into Manilla Airport and spend 2 nights in the city overcoming jetlag
- Explore Rizal Park and Fort Santiago
- Use this time to extend your Visa at the Bureau of Immigration in Manilla (You can do this in Cebu but it takes longer)
Northern Luzon
Day 3-10:
Your trip is now heading North – be prepared for a cooler climate, that is unique in comparison to the normal hot sticky weather common in the rest of the country. Experience The famous UNESCO Heritage Site of the Banaue Rice Terraces, or head even further north towards Sagada – a true nature escape! Be prepared, there are some long buses in this part of the adventure (make sure you allow yourself lots of travel time here).
Baguio:
- Take the bus north to Baguio
- Stroll around Burnham Park
- Explore Camp John Hay
- Explore the Wet & Dry Market
Sagada:
- Take the bus north to Sagada
- Wake up early to enjoy the famous Sea of Clouds during sunrise
- Hike the Blue Mountains
- Witness the unique Hanging Coffins
- Go on a Spelunking adventure in the caves
Banaue:
- Take a bus to Banaue and stay 1-2 nights
- Enjoy a delightful day trek through the rice terraces and to a magnificent waterfall
Legazpi
Day 11-13:
- Take a bus to Legazpi and enjoy the stunning views of Mayon Volcano.
- Explore the Cagsawa Ruins and Lignon Hill
- Day trip to Donsol to ethically snorkel with Whale Sharks (February - May peak season)
Top Tip: Luzon has so much to discover. Head to the Luzon Page to explore the interactive map and uncover new places to add to your Philippines bucket list.
Siargao
Day 14-18:
Now it’s time to head to the beach and get your surf on! Welcome to the surfing capital of the Philippines. Spend some time relaxing and taking a break from the stress of moving about. Check out the vast array of coffee shops, bars and beachfront restaurants.
- Fly to Siargao
- Surf at Cloud 9 and explore other surf spots.
- Discover Magpupungko Rock Pools and Sugba Lagoon.
- Relax on the beaches and enjoy the laid-back island vibe.
- Day trip to Sohoton Cove to swim with Jelly Fish
- Take an Island Hopping tour
Cebu
Day 19-23:
Your trip is now heading to Cebu. It’s up to you whether you crave some city time or prefer beaches and nature. Why not both? The city offers a bustling nightlife and an array of street food to try (make sure not to miss the lechon)! If you are staying in the city, head up to the mountains in Busay to experience a gorgeous sunset over the city lights. Alternatively, you can road trip around the island-beaches, waterfalls, hiking, diving-endless opportunities await! Tailor the trip to your preferences. That’s the beauty of Cebu: There is something for everyone.
- Fly From Siargao to Cebu (CEB)
- Visit the Historical sites in the City: Fort San Pedro, Magellans Cross
- Explore Moalboal: Canyoneering, Kawasan Falls and the Sardine Run
- Scuba dive in Mactan or Moalboal
Essential Read: Cebu’s Hidden Gems: Best Things To Do in Cebu Island
Top Tip: If you prefer nature, beaches and waterfalls, skip the city and explore South Cebu
Malapascua or Bantayan
Day 24-26:
Head North of Cebu towards one of two tiny, but gorgeous islands. Can’t choose? Go to both!
- Enjoy Malapascuas beaches
- If you are a diver, head to Malapascua where you can enjoy diving with Thresher Sharks and with Reef Sharks
- Non-Divers, head to Bantayan
- Enjoy a couple of days relaxing by the beach or Skydive if you are feeling brave
Top Tip: Most people believe the only thing to do on Bantayan is to visit the beach. They are wrong! Explore the ultimate Banatayan guide here to uncover the highlights of the island.
Bohol:
Day 27-30:
Welcome to Bohol. It is best to book your accommodation on the tiny adjoining island of Panglao, to be in the midst of the action. You are in for a treat from caves, beaches and unique creatures! You can experience an underwater paradise in the nearby dive sites or take a tour of the island. If you are comfortable riding a scooter, road trip Bohol’s beauty yourself to get the most out of the scenery – it is always best to explore at your own pace.
- Head back to Cebu & Take the Ferry from Cebu to Bohol
- Explore the Chocolate Hills & Tarsier Sanctuary
- Enjoy the beaches of Panglao & the famous fire show
- Explore Hinagdanan Cave
- Scuba Dive or snorkel with turtles in Balicasag Marine Sanctuary
Siquijor:
Day 31-34:
You are now off to Siquijor – the Voodoo Island of the Philippines. It is known as Isla Del Feugo or Island of Fire due to its mesmerising sunsets. Siquijor offers places to relax, party and sightsee, accompanied by a few hidden gems only the locals can show you. Swim in crystal clear rivers, jump into bright blue waterfalls or relax at the beachfront bars. Siquijor is an island that truly feels magic and is bound to leave a lasting impression on you.
- Take the Ferry to Siquijor
- Check out the famous Cambugahay Falls & Lugnason Falls
- Discover the beautiful beaches of Salagdoong and Paliton
- Scuba Dive with Barracudas
- Watch breathtaking sunsets
- Visit the enchanted Balete Tree
The best area to stay for backpackers in Siquijor is San Juan. If you fancy a secluded Jungle Airbnb away from the crowds, explore Jungle Hut
Dumaguete:
Day 35-37:
- Explore Dumaguete City and its historical sites.
- Take a day trip to Apo Island for snorkeling or diving
- Visit the scenic Casaroro Falls and Pulangbato Falls
Top Tip: Most travellers don’t venture past Dumaguete when visiting Negros. For a more authentic trip in the Philippines, consider a road trip in Negros. The island itself holds gorgeous beaches, and waterfalls.
Puerto Princessa & El Nido
Day 38-41:
Explore gorgeous region of Palawan. Famous for its golden sand beaches, crystal clear oceans and impressive island hopping, your trip is bound to reach a high.
- Fly into Puerto Princessa from Manilla and visit the underground River
- Take a bus up to El Nido
- Embark on an island hopping tour to Big and Small Lagoon
- Relax on the beaches of Nacpan & Las Cabanas
- Hike up Taraw Cliff for panoramic views of El Nido
- Enjoy the Local Town Shopping, Cuisine & Nightlife
Palawan: Coron
Day 42-46:
Welcome to Coron. An island quite far from the rest, but full of magic. If you are an ocean lover, then this part of the trip is certainly for you! The island boasts crystal-clear lagoons and world-class shipwreck diving. Experience diverse marine life and healthy coral reefs. Or, for those who love land adventures, hike up to the famous viewpoint to get a magical overview of the island.
Essential Read: The Ultimate Coron Travel Guide: Best Things To Do
- Take the ferry From El Nido (ENI) to Coron (CEB)
- Island Hop in Coron (Baraccuda Lake, Kagayan Lake, Snorkelling, Lusagno Gun Boat
- Explore Maquinit Hot Springs
- Do a day diving through WW2 Shipwrecks
- Head to the View Point for Sunset
- Head North to Snorkel with Dugongs
For an extra adventure: Book the tour from El Nido To Coron (4 days of camping, island hopping and secluded adventures. Check out the adventure here.
The Final 2 Weeks:
In crafting this two-month itinerary, we’ve deliberately set aside two weeks of flexible time, allowing you the freedom to embark on unexpected adventures, form connections with new friends, and explore hidden gems that may not have initially crossed your mind.
Recognizing the spontaneity of travel, these weeks serve as a buffer, enabling you to rest and rejuvenate amidst the exhilarating pace of backpacking. It acknowledges that sometimes, the magic of a destination can captivate you, making it difficult to bid farewell. Whether you find yourself captivated by a charming town, immersed in local culture, or simply cherishing newfound friendships, these allotted weeks provide the space for unforeseen delights and the luxury of savoring the journey.
Other Places To Consider:
- Boracay:
Known as the party island of the Philippines, Boracay hosts world class beaches and is popular among tourists for it’s nightlife, resorts and watersports. Boracay is significantly more expensive than other areas of the Philippines
- Camiguin
Hike volcanoes, swim in towering waterfalls, and snorkel in a sunken cemetery, Camiguin is a hidden gem in the Philippines. Best to include this place with a ferry from Bohol, or a flight from Cebu.
Essential read: Camiguin Island – A Little Known Gem In The Philippines
- Balabac
Less touristy than El Nido, Balabac in the South tip of Palawan hosts world-class beaches, perfect for relaxing and exploring paradise
- Negros
A great place for a road trip in Visayas. The island is a great way to experience the ‘local’ Philippines. There are great waterfalls, beaches and caving opportunities here.
Essential read: A Complete Guide To Exploring Negros Island
The Top 10 Places to Visit:
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We are Em & Yul – An English & Filipino Travel Couple. Now based in Cebu, we frequently explore the best destinations, hidden gems and cultural attractions across the Philippines.
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