- Discover Mayon Volcano's dramatic landscapes on an exciting trek or ATV adventure
- Learn to prepare authentic Bicolano dishes during a hands-on cooking experience
- Encounter whale sharks in their natural habitat off the coast of Donsol
- Explore Iloilo's historic mansions, centuries-old churches and rich local food traditions
- Unwind on Boracay's famous White Beach, with snorkelling and sunset sailing
Flavours, Volcanoes & Islands of the Philippines
How often do you get to explore an active volcano, learn to cook regional dishes and swim off a tropical island on the same holiday? This 12-day journey introduces you to three very different parts of the Philippines, combining the volcanic landscapes of Bicol, the food and heritage of Iloilo, and the white-sand beaches of Boracay. After an overnight stay in Manila, the country’s capital, fly to Legazpi, where the near-perfect cone of Mayon Volcano dominates the landscape. Stay in a traditional Filipino ancestral home, learn to cook regional dishes during a hands-on Bikolinarya experience, and explore local markets, historic churches and the Cagsawa Ruins. Depending on the season, you can also look for whale sharks in Donsol or explore the lakes and waterfalls of Bulusan, before getting closer to Mayon on a guided trek or ATV adventure.
Continue to Iloilo, a city known for its culinary heritage and well-preserved historic buildings. Sample local favourites such as pancit molo, visit traditional houses and churches, and take a trip to neighbouring Guimaras, an island particularly famous for its mangoes. The final few days are spent in Boracay, where you can relax on White Beach or try activities such as snorkelling, sailing and kitesurfing. An overnight stay in Cebu rounds off the journey before your international flight home. It’s a varied itinerary with plenty to experience, balanced by time to unwind. All transfers and travel arrangements are taken care of, and the itinerary can be tailored to your preferences. Accommodation is based on comfortable 3- to 4-star properties, with upgrades to 5-star hotels available on request.
Tour Itinerary
Arrive in Manila, the bustling capital of the Philippines, where you will be met and transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay. Depending on your arrival time, the rest of the day is free to relax and recover from your international flight before beginning your journey through the Philippines.
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Legazpi, the gateway to the Bicol region and home to the iconic Mayon Volcano. On arrival, transfer to Casa Simeon, a beautifully preserved Filipino ancestral home that offers a glimpse into the region's history and traditional architecture. In the afternoon, join the Bikolinarya Culinary Experience, a hands-on introduction to Bicolano cuisine. Learn to prepare authentic regional dishes with guidance from local cooks, discovering the ingredients and cooking techniques that make Bicol's food distinctive. Enjoy the dishes you've prepared for dinner. (B,D)
Spend the day exploring Albay, where Mayon Volcano provides a dramatic backdrop to the region's historic towns, countryside and local food traditions. Visit Tabaco Market to experience everyday life, take in panoramic views from Masaraga Viewing Area, and explore one of the area's scenic natural attractions, such as Solong Eco Park, Quitinday Greenhills or Kitwinan Hill. Continue to Sumlang Lake, known for its peaceful setting and views of Mayon, before visiting the historic Cagsawa Ruins and Daraga Church. Food is an important part of today's experience. Sample local specialities including Puto Ligao, Guinobatan Longanisa and Bicol's famous chilli ice cream. You'll also learn to prepare Pinangat in Camalig, a traditional dish made with taro leaves and coconut milk. (B,L)
Today's excursion depends on the season. Between November and June, travel to Donsol in neighbouring Sorsogon, one of the Philippines' best-known destinations for encountering whale sharks in their natural habitat. These gentle giants visit the area's coastal waters seasonally, offering an opportunity to observe them responsibly in the wild, although sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Outside the whale shark season, explore Bulusan, a quieter part of Sorsogon known for its volcanic landscapes and rainforest. Visit Bulusan Lake, surrounded by lush vegetation, where activities such as kayaking, bamboo rafting, birdwatching and nature walks are available. Continue to nearby waterfalls, including Bayugin and Kambal Busay, to experience another side of Bicol's natural scenery. (B)
Get a closer look at Mayon Volcano, famous for its remarkably symmetrical cone and the volcanic landscapes surrounding it. Choose between a guided trek across the area's lava trails or an ATV adventure through the rugged volcanic terrain. Both experiences offer a different perspective of one of the Philippines' most recognisable natural landmarks.
After your adventure, enjoy lunch before transferring to the airport for your flight to Iloilo, located on the island of Panay in the Western Visayas region. On arrival, transfer to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure. (B,L)
Take a trip to neighbouring Guimaras, an island particularly famous for producing some of the Philippines' most sought-after mangoes. Visit a local mango farm to learn about how the fruit is cultivated and sample the island's celebrated produce. The afternoon is spent enjoying Guimaras' quieter coastal scenery. Relax on one of the island's beaches, swim in the clear waters or simply enjoy some time away from the busier towns of Panay. Return to Iloilo after a day combining local agriculture, food and island life. (B)
Explore Iloilo's rich architectural and culinary heritage, beginning with a visit to Agatona 1927 Museum Café, a preserved heritage property that reflects the city's past. Sample Pancit Molo, Iloilo's famous dumpling soup, before visiting Jaro Cathedral and its historic belfry. Continue to Biscocho Haus to try traditional local delicacies, then visit Camina Balay na Bato for a taste of batirol tsokolate, a rich Filipino hot chocolate traditionally prepared using a wooden whisk. Admire Molo Mansion and Molo Church, known for its statues of female saints, before strolling along Calle Real, Iloilo's historic commercial district. Try the city's famous Queen Siopao and conclude with a visit to Iloilo's oldest distillery, associated with the origins of Tanduay rum. (B,L)
Leave Iloilo and travel overland across Panay Island before taking a boat to Boracay, one of the Philippines' most famous beach destinations. Known for its powdery white sand and clear turquoise waters, Boracay offers a change of pace after several days exploring Bicol and Iloilo. The island's main attraction is White Beach, a long stretch of coastline lined with restaurants, resorts and beachfront establishments.
On arrival, transfer to your accommodation and spend the remainder of the day at leisure. You might choose to take a walk along the beach, enjoy a swim or settle into your resort. (B)
Explore Boracay's coastline on a private half-day island-hopping tour aboard a traditional Filipino outrigger boat, known locally as a bangka. Discover some of the island's quieter beaches, including Puka Beach, known for its distinctive shell-covered shoreline and clear waters. Continue to one of the area's popular snorkelling spots, such as Coral Garden or Crocodile Island, where you can swim among tropical fish and explore the underwater scenery. Depending on sea conditions, your route may also include other beaches and nearby islands, giving you a different perspective of Boracay away from the busy White Beach. Return to your resort after the excursion, with the rest of the day free to relax, enjoy the beach or explore the island at your own pace. (B)
Spend another day enjoying Boracay, whether you prefer relaxing by the beach or trying something new. For those interested in water sports, Bulabog Beach on the island's eastern coast is particularly well known for kitesurfing. Between November and April, the seasonal Amihan winds create favourable conditions for the sport, with lessons available for beginners and more experienced participants. Optional excursions and activities, including island hopping, snorkelling and other water sports, can also be arranged at an additional cost. If you'd rather take things slowly, enjoy another free day on White Beach, with time to swim, relax and explore the island's beachfront restaurants. (B)
Enjoy your final morning in Boracay before transferring to the airport for your flight to Cebu, one of the Philippines' main international gateways. On arrival, transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay. The rest of the day is free to relax before your journey home. (B)
Pricing Information
Price Includes
- Return international flights from the UK to the Philippines on Cathay Pacific via Hong Kong
- All taxes and charges
- Accommodation and meals as specified
- Transfers as specified
- Activities and excursions as specified
- All entrance fees on sightseeing tours as specified
Price Includes
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 7 May 2027 departure.
- All flight rates are correct at the time of publication but remain subject to change by the airlines. The exact airfare and any applicable taxes or surcharges will be reconfirmed at the time of booking.
- Holiday and peak season surcharges are not included in the above prices. Additional charges may apply during peak travel periods and will be confirmed at the time of booking.
- 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 it is by no means exhaustive. Please reach out to one of our travel specialists to help you create your ideal holiday.
Tour Route Map
- Philippines, Manila
- Philippines, Albay
- Philippines, Iloilo
- Philippines, Boracay
- Philippines, Cebu
Tour Accommodation
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