Two Weeks in Paradise: Ultimate Philippines Adventure
From Manila's Historic Streets to Palawan's Hidden Lagoons
Trip Overview
This comprehensive two-week journey through the Philippines showcases the archipelago's incredible diversity, from Manila's Spanish colonial heritage to the emerald rice terraces of the Cordilleras, the pristine beaches of Palawan, and the cascading waterfalls of Luzon and Mindanao. You'll experience world-class natural wonders, vibrant city life, and authentic Filipino culture. The itinerary balances adventure with relaxation, combining early morning explorations with leisurely beach afternoons. Expect island hopping, waterfall chasing, cultural immersion, and plenty of fresh seafood. This journey covers multiple islands, requiring domestic flights and various ground transportation, but rewards you with some of Southeast Asia's most breathtaking landscapes and warmest hospitality.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Manila Arrival & Historic Intramuros
Where to Stay Tonight
Ermita or Malate district (Mid-range hotel near Manila Bay)
Central location provides easy access to Intramuros, Rizal Park, and the bay area, with good restaurant options nearby
Manila's Modern Side & Ocean Wonders
Where to Stay Tonight
Makati district (Business hotel or modern accommodation)
Convenient for early morning flight to Banaue tomorrow, with better transport connections and safety
Journey to the Cordilleras
Where to Stay Tonight
Banaue town center (Traditional guesthouse or homestay)
Authentic mountain experience with local hosts who can arrange guides and transportation for rice terrace visits
Ancient Terraces of Batad
Where to Stay Tonight
Banaue town (Same guesthouse as previous night)
Comfortable base for recovery after the strenuous trek
Return to Manila & Flight to Cebu
Where to Stay Tonight
Cebu City center or near Mactan (Mid-range hotel with early breakfast)
Strategic location for tomorrow's day trip and easy access to transportation
Cebu's Temples and Gardens
Where to Stay Tonight
Cebu City center (Comfortable hotel in the downtown area)
Central location for exploring historical sites and preparing for tomorrow's journey to Siargao
Journey to Surigao and the Enchanted River
Where to Stay Tonight
Hinatuan or nearby coastal town (Simple beachside guesthouse)
Proximity to the Enchanted River and authentic local coastal experience
Waterfalls and Return North
Where to Stay Tonight
General Luna, Siargao (Beach resort or surf hostel)
Heart of Siargao's tourism area with easy access to beaches, restaurants, and island tour operators
Siargao Island Hopping Adventure
Where to Stay Tonight
General Luna, Siargao (Same beachside accommodation)
Convenient for multiple days exploring different parts of the island
Siargao's Natural Pools and Beaches
Where to Stay Tonight
General Luna, Siargao (Same beachside accommodation)
Last night on the island before tomorrow's journey to Palawan
Journey to El Nido Paradise
Where to Stay Tonight
El Nido town center (Beachfront hotel or guesthouse)
Easy access to tour operators, restaurants, and the beach, perfect for multiple days of island hopping
El Nido Lagoons and Limestone Cliffs
Where to Stay Tonight
El Nido town (Same beachfront accommodation)
Convenient for another day of island exploration tomorrow
More El Nido Magic
Where to Stay Tonight
El Nido town (Same beachfront accommodation)
Final night in El Nido before tomorrow's return journey
Return to Manila and Departure
Where to Stay Tonight
Not needed (Departing today)
End of journey
Practical Information
Getting Around
This itinerary requires multiple domestic flights (Manila-Cebu, Cebu-Surigao, Siargao-Puerto Princesa), which should be booked in advance for better rates. Inter-island ferries connect Surigao and Siargao. Long-distance buses and vans serve routes like Manila-Banaue and Puerto Princesa-El Nido. Within cities and islands, use tricycles, habal-habal (motorcycle taxis), and rental motorcycles. Download Grab for Manila and Cebu. Island hopping tours use traditional bangka boats. Always allow buffer time between connections as delays are common.
Book Ahead
Book all domestic flights at least 2-4 weeks in advance. Reserve Banaue accommodations and guides ahead, especially during peak season. Island hopping tours in Siargao and El Nido can be booked the night before, but pre-booking ensures availability. The Manila-Banaue overnight bus should be reserved in advance. El Nido lagoon tours require environmental fees paid in cash. Consider booking Puerto Princesa-El Nido vans ahead during holidays.
Packing Essentials
Lightweight, quick-dry clothing, swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, waterproof phone case, hiking shoes for rice terraces, sandals for beaches, light rain jacket, mosquito repellent, basic first aid kit, power bank, underwater camera, modest clothing for temples and churches, layers for mountain areas, reusable water bottle, and cash in small bills (many areas don't accept cards).
Total Budget
$1,050-1,350 for 14 days (excluding international flights)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Stay in hostels and homestays throughout (saving $15-20 per night), take overnight buses instead of some flights, eat primarily at local carinderias and street food stalls, join group tours instead of private ones, skip some entrance fees by focusing on free beaches and viewpoints, and extend time in fewer destinations to reduce transportation costs. Use public jeepneys and buses instead of private vans. This could reduce daily costs to $40-60.
Luxury Upgrade
Stay at premium resorts like El Nido Resorts' island properties, book private island hopping tours with better boats and catering, fly directly to El Nido via chartered plane, upgrade to business class on domestic flights, hire private guides and drivers throughout, dine at upscale restaurants, add spa treatments and sunset cruises, stay at heritage hotels in Manila and Cebu, and include a night at the Banaue Hotel for terrace views. Budget $200-350 per day for luxury experience.
Family-Friendly
Base yourselves in fewer locations to minimize travel days - perhaps skip Siargao and spend more time in El Nido and Cebu. Choose accommodations with family rooms and pools. Replace strenuous Batad trek with easier Banaue viewpoints. Book private island hopping tours for flexibility with children's schedules. Visit Manila Ocean Park which kids love. Choose beaches with calm waters like Nacpan Beach. Bring snacks for long journeys, allow more rest time, and consider hiring a private van for the Puerto Princesa-El Nido journey for comfort.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Philippines