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Philippines Tours: Islands, Culture & Tropical Adventures

Intro to Philippines Tours

The Philippines is a country of more than 7,000 islands, each offering its own story of turquoise waters, lush mountains, and centuries-old traditions. Guided tours help you experience this dazzling archipelago with ease — whether you’re island-hopping in Palawan, exploring Manila’s historic Intramuros, or diving among coral reefs in Cebu. With so much diversity, tours simplify logistics while deepening your connection to local culture.

From jeepney rides through busy cities to outrigger boat trips across lagoons, the Philippines rewards curious travelers who seek more than beaches. With expert guides leading the way, you’ll discover heritage, wildlife, and flavors that turn a holiday into a lifelong memory.

For deeper planning, explore our complete Philippines Travel Guide.

Why Book a Tour in the Philippines

The Philippines is vast and geographically complex, with many destinations reachable only by boat or domestic flights. Tours streamline transport and provide safety, while adding expert insight. In Manila, guides bring colonial forts alive with stories; in Banaue, they explain rice terraces carved by hand over 2,000 years ago; in Bohol, naturalists introduce you to tiny tarsiers.

Because the country is so varied, guided experiences ensure that travelers don’t just see its landscapes but also understand its culture, cuisine, and traditions. From diving expeditions to mountain treks, tours make the Philippines accessible, insightful, and unforgettable.

Best Tours in the Philippines

Underground River Tour (Puerto Princesa, Palawan)

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this subterranean river winds through limestone caves. Guides navigate boats while explaining geology, bat colonies, and local myths.

Island-Hopping in El Nido

Sail to lagoons, hidden beaches, and limestone cliffs on a guided boat tour. Each stop offers snorkeling, swimming, and photography opportunities.

Chocolate Hills & Tarsier Tour (Bohol)

Guides explain the unique cone-shaped hills and introduce you to tarsiers, one of the world’s smallest primates.

Banaue Rice Terraces Trek

Join local guides through ancient terraces and villages, learning how generations have sustained this UNESCO site. Homestay tours offer immersive experiences.

Manila Intramuros Walking Tour

Step into the walled city with historians who narrate Spanish colonial life, World War II stories, and cultural transformations.

Cebu Whale Shark Interaction Tour (Oslob)

Guided encounters let you swim with gentle giants under strict conservation rules. Many tours also include Tumalog Falls or Sumilon Island.

Mayon Volcano & Legazpi Tour

Hike or view the perfect cone-shaped volcano with guides explaining its geology and surrounding history.

Apo Reef Diving Tour

Certified divers explore one of the largest coral reef systems in the world with dive masters leading the way.

Siargao Surfing Lesson

Professional surfers guide you through Cloud 9’s waves, suitable for beginners and pros alike.

Vigan Heritage Tour

Stroll cobbled streets lined with Spanish-era houses. Guides highlight UNESCO heritage, crafts, and local delicacies.

Suggested Tours for Philippines Visitors

Coron Shipwreck Diving Tour

World War II wrecks in Coron Bay are explored with dive guides who ensure safety and share history.

Taal Volcano Crater Trek (Batangas)

A guided hike across volcanic landscapes, often combined with lake boat rides.

Donsol Whale Shark Eco-Tour (Sorsogon)

Unlike Oslob, encounters here are entirely natural and seasonal. Guides focus on conservation while spotting whale sharks.

Boracay Island Sunset Sail

Board a paraw (local sailboat) with guides ensuring comfort. Sunset paints the white sands in unforgettable colors.

Sagada Caves & Hanging Coffins Tour

Guides explain the cultural and spiritual significance of limestone caves and cliffside burials.

Let the Philippines Inspire Your Next Trip

The Philippines’ diversity means there’s a tour for every traveler, from reefs to rice terraces.
Families enjoy safe island-hopping tours and interactive city walks.
Couples find romance in sunset sails, secluded beaches, and heritage hotels.
Adventurers trek volcanoes, dive reefs, and surf legendary waves.

From history to food to adventure, guided Philippines tours reveal the country’s heart while rounding out the must-try things to do in the Philippines. We may earn a commission if you book through our links — at no extra cost to you.

Adventures Close to the Philippines’ Main Hubs

Taal Heritage Town Tour (near Manila)

Guides show Spanish-era houses, basilicas, and food markets just a few hours from the capital.

Hundred Islands National Park (Pangasinan)

Island-hopping tours reveal caves, snorkeling sites, and lookout points across dozens of islets.

Samal Island Escape (near Davao)

Boat tours take you to beaches, waterfalls, and snorkeling reefs near Mindanao’s largest city.

Mount Pinatubo Crater Hike

Guided 4×4 rides and treks lead to a turquoise crater lake formed by the 1991 eruption.

Must-Do Activities in the Philippines

Island Hopping – Guided outrigger tours showcase lagoons, cliffs, and pristine beaches.
Cultural Walks – From Vigan to Intramuros, history is revealed through expert narration.
Wildlife Tours – Encounters with tarsiers, whale sharks, and reef life highlight biodiversity.
Mountain Treks – Volcanoes and terraces are best explored with local guides.
Culinary Tours – Guided tastings introduce adobo, lechon, halo-halo, and regional specialties.

Local Secrets You’ll Love

Street Food Crawl in Manila – Taste balut, skewers, and desserts with local guides.
Lake Sebu Tour (Mindanao) – Guides introduce T’boli weaving traditions and stunning waterfalls.
Hidden Waterfalls in Cebu – Local-led treks uncover secluded cascades beyond tourist crowds.
Traditional Fishing Experience (Palawan) – Fish with locals using age-old techniques.

Food & Drink Experiences in the Philippines

Filipino Cooking Class in Manila – Learn recipes like sinigang and lumpia from local chefs.
Cebu Lechon Tasting Tour – Guided visits to stalls and restaurants famous for roasted pig.
Palawan Seafood Feast – Boat tours include freshly grilled seafood on secluded beaches.
Halo-Halo Dessert Tour – Guided tastings of this layered shaved-ice dessert in various regional styles.

Sample Day Plans

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Manila’s Intramuros with a walking tour.
Day 2: Fly to Palawan for an underground river tour.
Day 3: Island-hopping around El Nido.

5-Day Itinerary

Days 1–2: Manila city and food tours.
Day 3: Banaue rice terraces trek.
Day 4: Fly to Cebu for whale shark interaction.
Day 5: Relax with a Boracay sunset sail.

7-Day Itinerary

Days 1–2: Manila city highlights and Intramuros tours.
Day 3: Banaue rice terraces trek.
Day 4: Sagada caves and hanging coffins tour.
Day 5: Cebu whale sharks and waterfalls.
Day 6: Palawan underground river and lagoons.
Day 7: Boracay relaxation and food crawl.

10-Day Itinerary

Days 1–3: Manila Intramuros, Taal Volcano, and Tagaytay tours.
Day 4: Banaue and Batad rice terraces with homestay.
Day 5: Sagada cave and cultural tour.
Day 6: Fly to Palawan for El Nido island-hopping.
Day 7: Coron shipwreck dive or snorkeling tour.
Day 8: Cebu whale sharks and Tumalog Falls.
Day 9: Bohol Chocolate Hills and tarsier tour.
Day 10: Boracay sunset sail and farewell dinner.

Ideal Seasons to Explore

Dry Season (Dec–May) – Best for island hopping, diving, and outdoor tours.
Rainy Season (June–Nov) – Expect afternoon showers; eco-tours thrive in lush scenery.
Whale Shark Season (Nov–June) – Prime for encounters in Cebu and Donsol.
Festival Season – Sinulog (Cebu, Jan) and Ati-Atihan (Aklan, Jan) are best experienced with guided cultural tours.

What to Know Before You Reserve

Domestic flights often connect tour regions — book tours with transfers included.
Ferry schedules can shift — guided packages ensure reliability.
Bring cash; rural areas may not accept cards.
Whale shark tours should follow ethical, eco-certified operators.
Sunscreen, hats, and water are essential year-round.
Many tours include hotel pickup; confirm logistics.
Flexible cancellation is important during typhoon season.
Wear modest clothing when visiting churches or indigenous villages.
Snorkeling and diving tours include gear, but check fit in advance.
Tipping guides (10–15%) is appreciated.
Wi-Fi is limited outside cities; download tickets beforehand.
Always confirm dietary needs for food tours.

Accessibility & Special Considerations

Manila and Cebu city tours often offer wheelchair access.
Mountain and island tours can be challenging for mobility issues.
Families benefit from private tours that allow slower pacing.
Many food tours accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice.
Domestic flights sometimes have strict baggage limits — plan ahead.

Moving Around Made Simple

Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) – Main international hub in Manila.
Cebu-Mactan International Airport (CEB) – Gateway to Visayas tours.
Puerto Princesa Airport (PPS) – Key entry for Palawan excursions.
Domestic Flights – Connect major islands quickly.
Ferries & Boats – Essential for inter-island travel; tours often include transfers.
Jeepneys & Vans – Used locally; tours handle arrangements for comfort and safety.

Stay Close to the Action

Intramuros (Manila) – Boutique hotels near walking tours and cultural sites.
El Nido (Palawan) – Beachfront stays perfect for island-hopping departures.
Coron – Lodgings close to shipwreck dives and lagoons.
Cebu City – Central for whale shark and waterfall tours.
Boracay – Resorts on White Beach near sailing and nightlife tours.
Bohol – Eco-lodges near tarsiers and Chocolate Hills.

Plan Smarter, Travel Better

Balance city and nature tours for variety.
Book internal flights early, especially in peak season.
Choose eco-certified guides for wildlife encounters.
Private tours add flexibility in remote destinations.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen and reusable bottles for sustainable travel.

Choose Your Next Adventure

Indonesia – Island-hop from Bali to Komodo with cultural and adventure tours.
Vietnam – A short flight north for food tours and Ha Long Bay cruises.
Malaysia – Combine the Philippines with Kuala Lumpur or Borneo wildlife tours.
Thailand – A regional hub with Bangkok markets and island escapes.

It’s Time to Experience the Philippines

The Philippines is a kaleidoscope of islands, traditions, and adventures best unlocked with expert guides. From coral reefs to rice terraces, fiestas to heritage towns, tours connect you to the country’s essence with safety and depth. Whether it’s romance, family fun, or adrenaline, guided experiences transform a trip into unforgettable stories.

Book today and see why Philippines tours remain among the most rewarding things to do in the Philippines.