Private Travel
Philippines
Private
Private Tour
Manila to Manila – 12 Days
This 12-day Philippines holiday takes you from historic Manila to the peaceful beaches of Bulata, through the islands of Negros and the Visayas. Along the way, experience colourful festivals in Kalibo, learn the unique craft of pina-weaving in Iloilo, and taste sweet local treats in Bacolod. You'll explore colonial towns, visit churches, and enjoy regional foods that reflect the country’s diverse cultural heritage.
The journey also includes island adventures to Guimaras and Danjugan, where you can relax on quiet beaches, snorkel over coral reefs, and hike through lush tropical forests. Whether you enjoy festivals, local crafts, food, or nature, this tour gives you a deeper look at the Philippines beyond the usual tourist spots. It’s perfect for those wanting a mix of culture and coastlines in a relaxed and well-paced holiday.
KALIBO FESTIVAL FUN: Join the Ati-Atihan Festival in Kalibo and enjoy lively dancing, music, and colourful costumes. This joyful celebration honours local traditions and community spirit. It’s a chance to experience one of the Philippines’ most famous and energetic festivals in the heart of Aklan.
ILOILO’S PINEAPPLE WEAVING: Visit Iloilo and watch skilled artisans turn pineapple fibres into beautiful cloth. This traditional craft, known as pina-weaving, is part of the region’s cultural pride and is used to make clothing for special occasions and ceremonies across the Philippines.
BACOLOD’S SWEET SIDE: Explore Bacolod, known for its sugarcane fields and tasty desserts. Learn about the city’s sugar industry and enjoy delicious treats made from local produce. It’s a great stop for food lovers who enjoy sweets and want to know the stories behind them.
DANJUGAN ISLAND NATURE: Spend the day on Danjugan Island, a nature reserve with coral reefs, forests, and wildlife. Snorkel in clear water, walk forest trails, and relax on quiet beaches. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the beauty of the Philippines' natural environment.
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
Private Travel
Moderate
Premium
This 12-day Philippines holiday takes you through Manila, Kalibo, Iloilo, Bacolod, and Bulata. Enjoy festivals, local crafts, food tours, and island escapes. A great blend of culture and nature, this trip is ideal for travellers who want to see the real Philippines beyond the usual tourist spots.
Your Philippine journey begins in the capital city of Manila. After arriving at the airport, you’ll be met by a representative and transferred to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day settling in or heading out to explore at your own pace. Manila is a lively city made up of several districts, each offering something different. You’ll find colonial architecture, buzzing street food stalls, shopping malls, and museums. It’s a great place to experience the energy of the Philippines and get a feel for the culture before heading off to the quieter parts of the country.
Explore Intramuros, the oldest part of Manila, built by the Spanish in the 16th century. This walled city has been beautifully preserved and is full of history. You’ll visit churches, courtyards, and cobbled streets lined with stone buildings that tell stories from the colonial period. Learn how the Spanish shaped the culture, religion, and architecture of the Philippines. Walk at a relaxed pace, stopping for photos or a coffee in one of the heritage cafés. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to shop, explore nearby museums, or unwind at your hotel.
After breakfast, take a short flight to Kalibo, a coastal town known for its crafts and culture. On arrival, you’ll check in and start exploring local life. One of Kalibo’s oldest traditions is pina-weaving—making fabric from pineapple fibres. Visit workshops where artisans still use handlooms to create this unique cloth, known for its beauty and durability. You’ll also have the chance to enjoy fresh seafood and local specialities, as Kalibo is home to many small restaurants and food markets. The town’s relaxed pace offers a nice change after the busy streets of Manila.
Today, you may witness one of the Philippines' most exciting cultural events—the Ati-Atihan Festival. Held every January, this colourful street celebration features locals in painted faces and vibrant costumes dancing to drums and chants. It’s known as the “Mother of All Philippine Festivals” and honours Santo Niño, the child Jesus. Even if you’re not visiting during festival week, you’ll still sense the local pride in this event. Visit cultural centres and markets to see how locals prepare for the big day, and soak in the atmosphere of this town full of rhythm, colour, and community spirit.
Continue experiencing Kalibo’s cultural energy during Aklan Day, if your visit aligns with the local calendar. The streets come alive with food stalls, music, and parades. This day celebrates the province’s foundation and often includes grand processions and religious activities. Taste local dishes like chicken inasal and seafood cooked with coconut milk, or simply explore the festive streets full of music and smiling faces. If you’re visiting outside festival dates, take the opportunity to explore the surrounding countryside or visit mangrove parks and eco-tourism sites nearby. Kalibo blends tradition and nature, offering something unique year-round.
After breakfast, journey to Iloilo, a city known for its elegant Spanish-style buildings, wide boulevards, and colonial-era churches. Visit the impressive Miagao Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with unique Baroque architecture. Continue exploring sites such as Molo Church and the old provincial Capitol Building. The city’s heritage homes and plazas reflect Iloilo’s historical role as a trade and religious centre. In the afternoon, enjoy a stroll along the river promenade or explore the local markets selling crafts and regional delicacies. Iloilo is calm and welcoming, offering a graceful look at the Philippines’ colonial past.
Take a day trip to the nearby island of Guimaras, famous for producing the sweetest mangoes in the Philippines. Travel by boat to reach this peaceful island, where you’ll visit a Trappist monastery where monks make fruit jams, pastries, and craft beers. Walk through mango orchards and enjoy tropical fruits fresh from the farm. Stop at the Guisi Lighthouse for beautiful views of the coast and learn about the island’s maritime history. There’s also time to relax on one of Guimaras’ quiet beaches or take a short forest walk before heading back to Iloilo in the evening.
This morning, take a ferry across the sea to Bacolod, known as the “City of Smiles” and the heart of the sugar industry in Negros. After checking in, begin exploring this friendly city. Walk around the Capitol Park and Lagoon, visit San Sebastian Cathedral, and see The Pope John Paul II Tower, which offers panoramic views. Later, head to the nearby city of Silay, often called the “Paris of Negros,” where you’ll find beautiful heritage houses and charming streets. Return to Bacolod in the evening and perhaps enjoy dinner at one of the city’s well-loved cafés.
Spend the day learning about the sugar industry that helped shape Bacolod and its people. Visit a working sugarcane plantation and see how sugar is grown and processed. Meet locals who have worked in the industry for generations and hear their stories. Try freshly made sugar-based treats, such as piaya and napoleones, and learn how important sugar is to both the economy and the local identity. There may also be time to stop by the Negros Museum, which provides a deeper look into the history, culture, and industry of the region. Return to your hotel in the evening.
Today, take a scenic drive south along the coast to the quiet town of Bulata. Located in Negros Occidental, Bulata is known for its soft white sand beaches and peaceful atmosphere. Check into your beach resort and spend the rest of the day relaxing. Go for a swim in the clear waters, lie under the palm trees with a book, or simply enjoy the views of the sea. This slower pace offers a perfect opportunity to rest after the cultural highlights of the previous days. Dinner can be enjoyed at your resort, with fresh seafood on the menu.
Take a boat to Danjugan Island, a protected marine sanctuary known for its incredible biodiversity. Spend the day snorkelling over coral reefs, spotting tropical fish and colourful sea life. On land, go for a short hike through the forest to see rare birds and butterflies. Danjugan is run by a local conservation group, so your visit supports sustainable tourism. You’ll learn about the island’s marine ecosystems and conservation efforts. After a full day of nature and adventure, return to Bulata and spend your final evening enjoying a quiet beachfront sunset.
After breakfast, travel back to Bacolod for your flight to Manila. Once you arrive, connect to your international flight or spend a final few hours reflecting on your trip. From the history of Manila and Iloilo to the lively festivals of Kalibo, the food of Bacolod, and the beauty of Danjugan, this journey offers a well-rounded view of the Philippines. Take home memories of warm hospitality, colourful traditions, and unspoiled coastlines—leaving you refreshed, inspired, and perhaps planning your return.
This tour was inspired by the rich cultural tapestry, stunning natural landscapes, and the diverse wildlife of the Philippines.
From the historic streets of Manila to the tranquil beaches of Bulata, each destination was chosen to offer a unique blend of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and wildlife exploration. It's perfect for those interested in experiencing vibrant festivals, traditional crafts, and serene island life.
Experience vibrant festivals, traditional weaving, and untouched natural beauty, perfect for culture enthusiasts and beach lovers alike.
Our expedition's flexible approach allows us to adapt to new opportunities and conditions. We offer a range of activities from easy to moderate, tailored to your preference. Participants should be fit for activities such as walks, treks, and visits to cultural sites, with options for more strenuous hikes. Our trips are suitable for families.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Our tours feature the finest accommodations in each destination, from charming boutique hotels to cosy lodges, ensuring a comfortable stay with authentic cuisine. We carefully choose each location for its alignment with our itinerary and the activities planned, prioritising comfort and local experience.
TRANSPORTATION: All transportation for your tour is meticulously planned according to the itinerary. For personal explorations beyond the scheduled activities, your Expedition Leader is ready to suggest the best transportation choices, ensuring your travel within the tour is seamless and tailored to your interests.
Prices are per person, based on double or single occupancy (unless otherwise noted) and do not include international airfare to/from your destination. All prices and fares are quoted in US dollars and subject to change. See the terms and conditions for this trip for more information.
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The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
Your entire holiday is designed around your personal preferences
Travel at your own pace with full itinerary flexibility
Choose from handpicked, luxury hotels & resorts across Asia
Enjoy seamless logistics, private transfers, and 24/7 assistance
Our package holiday team has decades of experience in luxury Asia travel
Receive first-hand advice from specialists who know each destination intimately
Gain access to hidden gems and authentic local experiences
Our aim is to stay committed to responsible travel in Asia
We partner with eco-conscious providers
Itineraries include experiences that preserve Asia’s cultural and natural heritage
Travel with complete confidence under full ATOL protection
Fully bonded and financially protected for your peace of mind
Established in 2014
