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Unforgettable Philippines Tours – Explore the Best Things to Do

With over 7,000 islands, touring the Philippines is the smartest way to uncover its full range of destinations — from mountain villages and volcano lakes to coral reefs, underground rivers, and colonial cities. Whether you’re based in Luzon, Visayas, or Mindanao, guided tours unlock experiences that are difficult to plan solo.

Start your adventure with these handpicked Philippines tours and experiences you’ll never forget.

Why Take a Tour in the Philippines?

Many of the country’s top attractions require multi-leg travel, permits, or local coordination. Philippines tours offer direct access to hard-to-reach islands, forest interiors, and marine sanctuaries — often including hotel pickup, boats, guides, and gear. From tribal villages in the Cordilleras to sandbars in the Sulu Sea, tours help you go deeper, safer, and smarter.

Top Tours in the Philippines by Region and Experience

This section dives into real tourist destinations and what tours actually cover — organized for high-planning value.

Palawan: Lagoons, Lakes, and Underground Rivers

El Nido Tours
Explore Bacuit Bay through island-hopping packages. Tour A covers Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, and Shimizu Island. Tour C adds Hidden Beach and Matinloc Shrine. Private tours allow early access to avoid crowds.
Coron Tours
Snorkel Japanese WWII shipwrecks and float in Kayangan Lake and Barracuda Lake. Day tours often include Twin Lagoon and Siete Pecados Marine Park with lunch on white-sand beaches.
Puerto Princesa Underground River
This UNESCO site features boat rides through limestone caverns and stalactites. Day tours typically include Sabang Wharf transfers, buffet lunch, and mangrove paddling.

Cebu: Marine Life, Waterfalls, and Heritage Walks

Oslob Whale Shark + Tumalog Falls Tour
Combine snorkeling with whale sharks (ethical considerations apply) and a visit to a multi-tiered waterfall with natural pools. Departures from Cebu City start early morning.
Moalboal Island + Sardine Run Tours
Snorkel with millions of sardines near Panagsama Beach, plus sea turtles and coral gardens. Often bundled with Pescador Island and Kawasan Falls.
Cebu City Heritage Tour
Visit Magellan’s Cross, Fort San Pedro, Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, and Taoist temples. Some packages include a lechon (roast pig) food stop or a guitar workshop in Lapu-Lapu City.

Bohol: Chocolate Hills and River Cruises

Chocolate Hills Adventure Tour
Includes viewpoints in Carmen, tarsier sanctuaries, and ATV trails through the hills. Most tours combine this with the Bilar Man-Made Forest and Butterfly Garden.
Loboc River Cruise
Buffet lunch on a floating restaurant as you glide through palm-fringed riverbanks. Performances by local musicians and dancers are included.
Panglao Island Hopping
Snorkel in Balicasag Marine Sanctuary, dolphin watching near Pamilacan Island, and sunbathing at Virgin Island’s sandbar.

Ilocos Region: Colonial Cities and Coastal Dunes

Vigan Heritage Tour
Ride a kalesa through Calle Crisologo, visit Syquia Mansion, and explore pottery shops in Pagburnayan. Many tours include a longganisa tasting and a stop at the dancing fountain.
Laoag + Paoay + Sand Dunes Tour
Explore the Sinking Bell Tower, Malacañang of the North, and Paoay Church before heading to Paoay Sand Dunes for a 4×4 ride and sandboarding.
Pagudpud North Tour
See the Bangui Windmills, Cape Bojeador Lighthouse, Patapat Viaduct, and Blue Lagoon — all linked by scenic coastal roads.

Banaue + Sagada: Rice Terraces and Cave Adventures

Banaue + Batad Rice Terraces Hike
Guided hikes through UNESCO-listed terraces, native Ifugao homes, and local weaving cooperatives. Overnight options often include guesthouse stays and cultural shows.
Sagada Cave Connection Tour
Adventure caving through Lumiang and Sumaguing Caves — involves climbing, squeezing through crevices, and underground pools. Add the hanging coffins and Echo Valley hike for full cultural immersion.
Bontoc Museum + Maligcong Trek
Off-the-beaten-path tours to lesser-known terraces with hot springs, waterfalls, and quiet forest trails.

Davao + Samal Island: Eco Adventures and Inland Parks

Philippine Eagle Center + Eden Nature Park
Day trips from Davao City combine conservation tours with forest gardens, zip lines, and lunch buffets in Eden Park.
Samal Island Beach Tours
Island hopping to Talikud Island, Coral Garden snorkeling, and stops at Pearl Farm Beach Resort or Hagimit Falls. Perfect for travelers staying in Davao with limited time.

Siargao: Beyond Surfing

Sugba Lagoon Tour
Paddle through calm turquoise waters surrounded by forested cliffs. Tours often include Magpupungko Rock Pools and Kawhagan Island sandbar.
Island Hopping: Daku, Guyam, and Naked Islands
Half- or full-day boat tours ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and seafood barbecues on the beach.
Land-Based Tours
Cloud 9 boardwalk, coconut road photography spots, and Maasin River palm swing are often visited via tricycle or private tour van.

Batanes: Remote Heritage and Coastal Views

South Batan Island Tour
Explore stone houses in Ivana and Mahatao, Honesty Coffee Shop, Tayid Lighthouse, and Marlboro Country. Guides often include personal insights into Ivatan culture and typhoon resilience.
North Batan Island Tour
Visit Basco Lighthouse, Valugan Boulder Beach, Tukon Church, and the Naidi Hills viewpoint. It’s ideal for travelers arriving by plane with limited days.
Sabtang Island Excursion
Take an early boat from Ivana Port to see traditional Ivatan villages with cogon-roofed houses, white beaches, and Chavayan’s historic stone paths.

Camiguin: Volcanoes and Underwater Mysteries

Island Highlights Tour
Includes White Island sandbar, the Sunken Cemetery viewpoint, Ardent Hot Springs, and the Old Spanish Church Ruins. Most tours use multicabs or motorbikes, and guides provide volcanic history insights.
Mantigue Island Snorkeling Tour
This marine sanctuary is rich in sea grass, turtles, and tropical fish. Tours typically include lunch and entrance fees.
Hibok-Hibok Hike
An active stratovolcano hike through mossy forest and ridge trails, requiring guides certified by local tourism offices.

Zambales: West Luzon Island Adventures

Anawangin Cove + Nagsasa Cove Camping Tour
Boat transfers from Pundaquit take you to these pine tree-lined coves with beach camping options. Popular with weekend travelers from Manila.
Capones Island Lighthouse Tour
Includes coastal hikes and heritage exploration of the Spanish lighthouse ruins. Some tours combine this with Camara Island and snorkeling stops.
Mount Pinatubo Day Trek (From Zambales Side)
Alternative to the Tarlac route, this includes rough off-roading and guided hikes to the crater lake.

Boracay: Beaches, Boats, and Beyond

Island-Hopping Tour with Crystal Cove
Explore Crocodile Island, Magic Island (cliff diving), and snorkeling spots. Crystal Cove Island adds sea cave trails and panoramic views.
Paraw Sunset Sailing
Traditional sailboats offer a quiet, engine-free way to enjoy White Beach’s sunset. Great for couples or solo travelers looking for iconic views.
Boracay Land-Based Tours
Visit Mt. Luho viewpoint, Willy’s Rock, and D’Mall in one afternoon. Often includes ATV rides or zipline activities for variety.

Recommended Experiences in the Philippines

Banaue to Batad Trek + Cultural Homestay
Spend two days hiking through UNESCO-listed rice terraces, visiting native Ifugao villages, and sleeping in a traditional wooden hut. Meals are home-cooked, and guides are often village elders or descendants of original terrace builders.
Coron Reef + Kayangan Lake Day Tour
Snorkel through WWII shipwrecks, climb to the famous Kayangan Lake viewpoint, and relax on white-sand coves — all in one day. Includes picnic-style lunch and licensed marine guides.
Binondo + Quiapo Heritage Food Walk
A walking tour through Manila’s spiritual and culinary heart, combining Chinese-Filipino dishes with local superstitions, gold-leaf churches, and hidden alley vendors.
Camiguin Full Island Discovery
Visit White Island, Sunken Cemetery, Katibawasan Falls, and Ardent Hot Springs — all with a native guide who provides backstories on volcanic eruptions and early Spanish settlements.
Island-Hopping in El Nido or Siargao
Whether you’re gliding into the Big Lagoon or diving into Sugba Lagoon, these island tours feature limestone cliffs, coral gardens, and traditional Filipino boat crews that bring charm and hospitality to every leg of the journey.
Mt. Pinatubo Crater Lake Adventure
Ride a 4×4 across volcanic ash fields, then trek to a stunning jade crater lake framed by dramatic cliffs. Includes geology insights and views few travelers ever reach on their own.

Explore curated tour experiences that highlight the very best of the country’s diverse destinations:

Browse top-rated Philippines tours & Excursions and unforgettable things to do in Philippines — from island-hopping adventures and coral reef snorkeling to cultural heritage walks and vibrant street food explorations.

Must-See Day Trips from Major Bases

Day tours in the Philippines allow you to explore neighboring towns and natural attractions with same-day return. Here are top picks based on city hubs.

From Manila
– Tagaytay & Taal Volcano: Visit Taal Lake’s scenic ridge, try bulalo soup, and enjoy views of the smallest active volcano.
– Pagsanjan Falls: Ride a canoe up river rapids, guided by boatmen through narrow gorges.
– Corregidor Island Tour: WWII ruins, tunnels, and historical dioramas accessible by ferry from Manila Bay.

From Cebu City
– Oslob + Sumilon Island: See whale sharks (ethics debated), visit Tumalog Falls, and snorkel Sumilon’s sandbar.
– Bantayan Island Day Trip: Fly or ferry for laid-back beaches, Kota Park, and fresh seafood stalls.
– Camotes Islands: Explore Lake Danao, Timubo Cave, and quiet white beaches.

From Iloilo City
– Guimaras Island: Known for sweet mangoes. Includes Trappist Monastery, Alubihod Beach, and local farms.
– Miag-ao Heritage Trail: Visit the Miag-ao Baroque Church, a UNESCO site, and nearby colonial bridges.

From Davao City
– Samal Island Beach Escape: Clear waters, beach clubs, and snorkeling stops just 15–20 minutes away by ferry.
– Mt. Apo Foothills: Eco-park tours and treks along the lower slopes of the country’s highest peak.

Book the Best Philippines Tours

From pristine beaches and ancient villages to coral reefs, volcanoes, and food markets, the Philippines is packed with places best seen on tour.
Book immersive Philippines tours and experience unforgettable things to do in the Philippines — from sacred mountain rituals and underground rivers to lagoon kayaking and cultural walks through living heritage towns.

For full destination planning, explore our Philippines Travel Guide, Philippines Culture, and Philippines Beaches sections.

Best Time of Year for Philippines Tours

Dry Season (Dec–May)
Best time for outdoor activities, island-hopping, and volcano hikes. Expect higher prices and advance booking for top destinations like Palawan and Siargao.
Rainy Season (Jun–Oct)
Great for cultural and food tours, plus waterfalls and rivers are fuller. Some boat tours may cancel due to sea conditions.
Shoulder Months (Nov and early June)
Transitional weather with fewer tourists and discounts. Ideal for flexible travelers visiting multiple islands.

Travel Tips for Booking Philippines Tours

Book early during December to May, especially for Coron, El Nido, and Batanes.
Check island transfer times — some tours require pre-departure hotel stays or overnight ferries.
Bring cash, especially for day tours in rural areas or where credit cards are not accepted.
Use official tourism sites or platforms like Viator for licensed tours.
Ask about group sizes, pickup points, and safety gear — especially for diving, caving, and hiking trips.

Where to Go Next

After exploring the Philippines, consider adding these nearby destinations to your travel plans:

Indonesia – Island-hop across Bali, Java, and Komodo with rich contrasts in culture, temples, and volcanoes.
Vietnam – Combine Halong Bay cruises, street food tours, and imperial cities in one seamless cultural journey.
Thailand – Great flight access and a wide mix of beaches, historic sites, and adventure-focused tours.
Malaysia – Explore the rainforests of Borneo or colonial towns like Penang and Malacca just a short hop away.

Start Exploring the Best Philippines Tours Today

From underground rivers and rice terraces to wind-swept coasts and reef-filled islands, the best Philippines tours reveal places guidebooks can’t reach. Whether you’re planning an island-hopping spree, cultural immersion, or off-the-grid trek, these curated experiences help you explore more with confidence.