Turtles, Waterfalls & Island Life

Arrive at Atmosphere Resorts & Spa in Dauin, on the southeast coast of Negros Island. Set within tropical gardens beside the sea, the resort makes a relaxing base for exploring this less-visited part of the Philippines.

The rest of the day is free to settle in and enjoy the surroundings. Spend time by the pool, head down to the beach or simply take it easy after your journey. There is plenty to do over the coming days, but the itinerary has deliberately been designed with time to enjoy the resort too.

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Spend the morning exploring Dumaguete, the cultural and academic centre of Negros Oriental. Walk along the seafront Rizal Boulevard before visiting St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral and its old stone bell tower, originally built as a watchtower against raiders. Continue through the covered public market for a glimpse of everyday city life before visiting Silliman University, founded in 1901 and the first American university in the Philippines. Its Anthropology Museum contains archaeological and ethnographic collections that offer a useful introduction to the cultures and history of the region. Finish at Freedom Park, shaded by acacia trees and overlooked by the Provincial Capitol.

The afternoon is free. You could relax at the resort or arrange another activity, including mountain biking or a treatment at the spa. Speak to our travel specialists if you would like to tailor your day. (B)

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Travel by traditional bangka boat to Apo Island, a small volcanic island off the coast of Negros known for its coral reefs and marine life. Spend the morning snorkelling in its clear waters, including a visit to a shallow turtle sanctuary where green sea turtles can often be seen feeding on seagrass. Apo Island has a long history of community-led marine conservation, making this more than simply a good snorkelling spot. Guides and safety equipment are provided, along with refreshments and snacks, with activities dependent on sea and weather conditions.

Return to Atmosphere with the afternoon free. Dauin and Apo Island are also well known for scuba diving, so this excursion can be arranged as a diving experience instead. Further diving can also be added during your stay. Contact our travel specialists for options. (B)

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Head inland to the forested hills of Valencia for a more active morning at Casaroro Falls. Reaching the waterfall involves descending more than 300 steps into a narrow, green gorge, followed by a walk through the surrounding forest. At the end is a slender 40-metre waterfall dropping into the rocky basin below. The route is demanding in places, but that is part of the experience. After spending time at the falls, make the climb back through the forest before returning to the resort for a free afternoon.

If wildlife interests you more than waterfalls, a visit to the Twin Lakes can also be arranged, with opportunities for birdwatching in the surrounding forest. The area is home to species found only in the Philippines, including the rare Negros bleeding-heart. Mountain hiking and trekking are other options available locally. (B)

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Spend part of today getting to know Filipino food through a hands-on cooking experience with Atmosphere’s chefs. Prepare a three-course meal while learning the ingredients and techniques behind dishes such as kinilaw, the Filipino answer to ceviche, and adobo, one of the country’s best-known dishes. Desserts can include favourites such as mango float and leche flan. The experience can be adapted to your interests, with options including bread baking and family-friendly sessions, and you will receive recipes to take home.

The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy as you choose. Relax by the pool, book some time at the resort’s spa or add another activity. Diving, birdwatching, mountain biking, hiking and trekking can all be incorporated into your stay. Speak to our travel specialists if you would like to swap any of the suggested excursions or add something different. (B,L)

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Enjoy your final morning at Atmosphere Resorts & Spa before leaving Dauin and continuing with your Philippines holiday or beginning your journey home. This six-day itinerary is our suggested way to experience Atmosphere and the surrounding area, but it is completely flexible. Stay for fewer nights, extend your time at the resort or change the excursions depending on what interests you most. Our travel specialists can incorporate the stay into a wider tailor-made Philippines itinerary. (B)