- Enjoy world-class diving at Apo Island and award-winning spa and wellness programs at Atmosphere Resort & Spa
- Stroll Dumaguete’s seafront boulevard and uncover its historic heart
- Trek to Casaroro Falls through jungle trails and steep ravines
- Snorkel vibrant coral reefs and swim with turtles at Apo Island
- Cook regional Filipino dishes with a local chef
Discover Dumaguete
Ideal for curious travellers keen to go beyond the usual beach trail, this trip offers a rewarding mix of culture, history and nature in Negros Island in the Philippines. A great choice for second-time visitors or those seeking a deeper, more varied island experience. The pace is steady and well-balanced, with plenty of time to take in the sights while covering a wide range of highlights. Expect an itinerary that blends lively towns, remote landscapes, and rich cultural stops, designed for travellers who enjoy both scenic beauty and meaningful connections with local life.
Explore the university town of Dumaguete, where seaside cafés, historic churches, and a lively market offer a glimpse into everyday life. Discover the shaded campus of Silliman University and its fascinating Anthropology Museum. Hike through forested trails to reach the dramatic Casaroro Falls, snorkel over colourful reefs off Apo Island, and spend a day with a local chef learning about regional ingredients and preparing traditional dishes.
Throughout the trip, stay at Atmosphere Resort & Spa, a peaceful, stylish base on the Dauin coast known for its excellent diving, warm hospitality and lush tropical setting. This is a side of the Philippines where nature and community are central to the experience. All travel arrangements are handled, with the option to tailor the itinerary around your interests.
Tour Itinerary
Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your hotel for check-in where you'll spend the rest of the day at leisure.
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Dumaguete. Upon arrival, our representatives will meet you at the airport to arrange your transfer to Atmosphere Resort and Spa. You will have the rest of the day free to relax. Consider getting a massage to ease your tired muscles after the long journey.
After breakfast, set off to explore Dumaguete, the cultural and academic heart of Negros Island. Start with a walk along Rizal Boulevard, where sea views and a lively mix of cafés and bars reveal the city’s laid-back energy. Visit the Cathedral of St Catherine and its nearby stone belltower, once used to warn of pirate raids.
Dive into local life at the bustling covered market, then head to Silliman University, home to the country’s first American university campus and a respected marine biology lab. Don’t miss the Anthropology Museum, housed in the oldest campus building, with exhibits on local tribal culture and pre-Hispanic artefacts. The campus itself is historic and full of period buildings that reflect Dumaguete’s strong academic roots. Finish in Freedom Park, a popular local gathering spot lined with acacia trees and overlooked by the Provincial Capitol. (B)
After breakfast, embark on an 8am bangka boat trip to Apo Island, just 40 minutes away. Famous for its vibrant coral reefs, marine life, and crystal-clear waters, Apo Island is perfect for snorkelling, free diving, or scuba diving. Visit a shallow turtle sanctuary to see turtles grazing on seagrass, which is a true highlight for marine enthusiasts. Activities depend on weather and ocean conditions, with safety a priority. Refreshments and snacks are provided during the trip, and guides, life jackets, and life rings are included. Return to the resort around 1pm. For diving instead of snorkelling, contact our travel specialists. (B)
After breakfast, head into the forested hills of Valencia to reach Casaroro Falls, one of the most striking waterfalls in Negros. A steep flight of over 300 steps leads you down through thick vegetation to a narrow gorge, where a 40-metre column of water crashes into a cold, clear basin below. The air is cool and misty, the walls of the ravine draped in ferns and moss. It’s a dramatic setting, popular with those up for a bit of adventure and willing to earn the view.
Take time to swim or simply cool off in the refreshing mountain water before tackling the climb back up. Though the hike is demanding, the reward is a wild, unspoiled landscape that feels far removed from the busy streets of Dumaguete. (B)
Experience the flavours of the Philippines with a day with the chefs at Atmosphere Resort. This hands-on cooking adventure lets you create a delicious three-course meal alongside skilled chefs, learning to prepare authentic dishes like kinilaw (Filipino ceviche), adobo (the national dish), and indulgent desserts such as mango float and leche flan. Lasting one to three hours, the experience can be tailored to your preferences, including bread baking or child-friendly options. With recipes to take home, it’s the perfect way to savour Filipino cuisine and bring a taste of the islands back with you. (B)
Today is a free day to enjoy at your own pace. The resort offers activities like diving, snorkelling, dolphin watching (seasonal), wine tasting with an expert sommelier, or a day trip to Siquijor Island. You can also take excursions to Twin Lakes, waterfalls, or a coffee plantation.
If staying on a Wednesday, don’t miss the lively Malatapay Market. For a more relaxed day, unwind by the beach, enjoy the resort pool, or indulge in the Atmosphere Signature massage at the award-winning spa. Contact our travel specialists to book activities. (B)
Free day at leisure. (B)
After breakfast, there will be time to enjoy the island life one last time, before returning to the airport for your flight back to the UK. Alternatively, you can extend your holiday by adding visits to other islands or opting for a stopover in Manila. Please get in touch with one of our travel specialists to assist you with these arrangements. (B)
Pricing Information
Price Includes
- Return International flights as per the itinerary
- All airport taxes & security charges
- Accommodation and meals as specified
- Transfers as specified
- Activities and excursions as specified
- All entrance fees on sightseeing tours as specified
Price Excludes
- Travel Insurance
- Any meals not specified in the itinerary
- Tips and gratuities
- Optional excursions
Price Notes
- Price is based on 2 adults travelling together with a 1 June 2026 departure.
- Flight disruptions could occur more often from June to October due to low-lying clouds associated with monsoon weather. Although travel during these months is still possible, it's important to be prepared for potential weather-related challenges. To enhance the reliability of your experience, it's advisable to plan your tour between November and May.
- Atmosphere Resort and Spa is a luxury destination renowned for its focus on diving, thanks to its proximity to the world-class diving site of Apo Island. If you'd like to include diving in your itinerary, please contact our travel specialists so we can customise the package to suit your preferences.
- The itinerary is based on a bed and breakfast plan. If you would like to upgrade to half board or full board, please contact our travel specialists for the correct pricing.
- This is a suggested itinerary that can be customised to suit your preferences. We can remove certain excursions or add other destinations as needed. This provides an overview of what you can experience in the area but is by no means exhaustive. Please reach out to one of our travel specialists who can assist you in creating your ideal holiday.
Tour Route Map
- Philippines, Manila
- Philippines, Dumaguete
Tour Accommodation
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