9 Days Philippines Vacation Package to Bohol & Dumaguete

Explore Visayas: Bohol and Dumaguete

The Philippines is a nature lover's haven. Some of the best beaches, natural wonders, and diving spots in the Philippines are found in the Visayas islands. If you are seeking remarkable tourist spots in the Visayas during your vacation, two of the must-visit places that you can travel to on the same trip are Bohol and Dumaguete.

Part of the Visayas group of islands in the Philippines, Bohol is a nature paradise packed with lush tropical forests, intriguing hills, diverse wildlife, and spectacular beaches. Bohol is most famous for the images of cute bug-eyed tarsiers and the majestic Chocolate Hills, but there’s much more to experience. For adventure lovers, Bohol also offers world-class dive sites. Here, you will have a chance to watch dolphins around Balicasag Island and swim with gentle whale sharks in the clear waters of Lila town.

Dumaguete, often referred to as the "City of Gentle People," is an excellent complement to your Visayas journey. As a gateway to Apo Island, Dumaguete offers unparalleled opportunities for diving and snorkeling. It is home to more than 650 fish species and over 400 corals and a significant population of sea turtles. Don't miss a side trip to Siquijor, best known to locals as an island shrouded in mystery and the supernatural, which also boasts of undisturbed beaches, mountain trails, waterfalls, and old churches to explore as well as decent scuba diving.

Take our 9 Days Bohol Dumaguete Tour from Manila. It is the perfect way to experience the serene beaches, captivating landscapes, and exhilarating underwater encounters of the Philippines and will leave you spellbound during your vacation.

Tour Code

PHT-PT-023

Available:

All year

Duration

9 days

Starting time

Flexible

Languages:

English

Difficulty:

Easy

Route

Manila - Bohol - Dumaguete

Features:

Nature, Wildlife, Islands, Hills, Beaches, Rivers, Waterfalls, Snorkeling

You Can Experience “Must-see & Must-do” with This Tour

01
Highlight: See the world's smallest primate inside the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary. These tiny creatures have distinctive features, like eyeballs larger than their brain, and the ability to rotate their heads over 360 degrees.
02
Highlight: Marvel at a breathtaking view of the famous Chocolate Hills. During the dry season, the vibrant green grass that covers these hills transforms into a delightful brown, resembling vast rows of chocolate drops.
03
Highlight: Savor the experience of a serene Loboc River Cruise with a lunch buffet. Take in the lush greenery and tranquil waters of this beautiful river while enjoying delicious local cuisine.
04
Highlight:Embark on Panglao Island Hopping Adventure. Go snorkel and watch dolphins around Balicasag Island, home to more than 11 species of dolphins and walk along Virgin Island, a beautiful sand bar exposed during low tide.
05
Highlight: Get up close with the gentle giants of the sea during a whale shark watching activity in Lila. An unforgettable experience that allows you to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
06
Highlight: Immerse yourself in the underwater wonderland of Apo Island and be amazed by its vibrant colors and biodiversity. At Turtle Point, you can swim with the turtles (or pawikan) or marvel at them even from shallow waters!
07
Highlight: Discovering hidden gems Siquijor Island. Uncover the enchanting allure of this mystical destination, where undisturbed beaches, scenic mountain trails, captivating waterfalls, and historic churches await.

Day by Day Itineray

Day 1 Arrival in Manila | Airport Pick-up and Hotel Check-in

Kumusta! Welcome to Manila, the capital of the Philippines! Upon your arrival at the airport in Manila, the tour guide and driver will meet you at the exit, and then escort you to the hotel . You can have a good rest for the jet leg in your hotel or visit around to explore for more on your own.

Known as the “Pearl of the Orient”, Manila is often the jump-off point to the country's incredible beaches, stunning islands, and unique natural wonders. Manila is an excellent hub for experiencing Philippine culture, history, shopping, and nightlife. Take your time to explore its lively streets, buildings, and people, who are full of energy.

Arrival Ideas:
The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), originally known as Manila International Airport (MIA), is the largest airport in the Philippines. Currently, there are over 30 direct flights to Manila from various parts of the world, including Singapore, Hong Kong, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, Taipei, Seoul, Tokyo, Osaka, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Dubai, Doha, Sydney, Melbourne, Ho Chi Minh City, Jakarta, Abu Dhabi, Denpasar, Riyadh, Guam, Los Angeles, Hanoi, and more. You can fly direct to Manila from almost every major city in Asia. Otherwise, you may need a layover in Hong Kong, Singapore, or Dubai, with most major airlines in the region offering regular flights to Manila. Philippine Airlines is the only carrier that offers nonstop flights to Manila from the United States. Other airlines that fly to Manila include Delta, Cathay Pacific, Emirates, Korean Air, ANA, KLM, EVA Air, and Qantas. If you need help with Philippines flight tickets booking, feel free to contact us.

Dining:
None
Accommodation:
Manila

Day 2 Manila - Bohol | Airport Pick-up and Hotel Check-in

According to your flight schedule, your guide will pick you up and bring you to Manila Airport, where you will board your domestic flight to Bohol. Bohol-Panglao International Airport is located on the island of Panglao, and the main transportation hub to the natural wonders of Bohol.

Upon arrival at the airport, your guide will pick you up to bring you to your hotel for check-in. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.

Bohol is a main island located in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines. It offers a wide range of options for travelers, from natural attractions to cultural heritage sites and unique island activities. In addition to the cute bug-eyed tarsiers and the majestic Chocolate Hills, there's much more to experience, such as white sand beaches, world-class dive sites, dolphin and whale shark watching, and the generally laid-back provincial of Panglao Island, these are what give Bohol its unique charm.

Dining:
Breakfast
Accommodation:
Bohol

Day 3 Bohol Countryside Tour | Tarsier Sanctuary, Chocolate Hills, Loboc River Cruise

Start your day with a visit to Bohol's first church, the historic Baclayon Church. Built from coral stone, this prime example of Baroque architecture in the Philippines features intricate designs and beautiful frescoes. It's a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the rich cultural heritage of Bohol.

Next, you'll board a floating restaurant and enjoy a delicious meal while cruising down the clean and picturesque Loboc River. As you take in the natural surroundings and enjoy a cultural show by the locals, you'll feel a sense of peace and tranquility that is hard to find in the city.

After lunch, you'll drive through the Man-Made Forest, a two-kilometer stretch of road lined with towering mahogany trees that make for the perfect photo opportunity. Then, it's on to the Corella Tarsier Sanctuary, home to the world's smallest primates, the tarsiers, which are known for their large eyes and unique ability to rotate their heads up to 180 degrees. Watch the cute tarsiers sleep in tree branches and lazily lounge about, but be sure not to touch or disturb them.

Finally, you'll head to the famous Chocolate Hills, over a thousand cone-shaped hills that turn brown during the dry season, giving them the appearance of chocolate mounds. From the viewing deck, you'll marvel at the breathtaking view of this unique natural wonder, and the hills' unusual shape will leave you wondering about their origin.

Dining:
Breakfast
Accommodation:
Bohol

Day 4 Panglao Island Hopping | Balicasag and Virgin Islands 

Your guide will pick you up early in the morning at your hotel. You will then be transferred to the boat docking area where you will start your island-hopping tour of Balicasag and Virgin Islands.

Your first activity for the day is dolphin watching and searching on the way to Balicasag Island. This area teems with diverse marine wildlife, including at least seven different species of wild whales and countless wild dolphins. Take note that seeing dolphins is not guaranteed. If you are lucky, you might see these creatures jumping up close.

After that, you'll head to Balicasag Island. Balicasag Island is a must-visit destination in the Philippines for all nature and marine life lovers. Its stunning 3000-feet-deep fault, known as the deepest and most beautiful underwater cliff in Asia, is a natural wonder that draws tourists from all over the world. During your visit to Balicasag Island, you will have the opportunity to go snorkeling at the "Rose Coral Garden," an area surrounded by countless colorful coral reefs and tropical fish. Even without diving, you can see a variety of marine creatures, tropical fish, and sea turtles.

Next, head to the natural ecological protected island of Virgin Island (Note: Not accessible during high tide, the tour guide will check the tide time beforehand). As the tide recedes, the beautiful Virgin Island gradually emerges in front of you, with a pure crescent-shaped white sandbar in the middle of the sea that makes you feel like you are in a dreamland. You can stroll through this natural wonder and pick up various starfish and sea urchins that are scattered on the sand. Some of the starfish are so big that they will leave you amazed! After island-hopping, you will have lunch onboard a board or at an island restaurant.

Lastly, you'll be transferred back to your hotel to rest.

Kindly note that some activities may be subject to change due to weather conditions. Your safety is our top priority, and we may need to reschedule or cancel activities in case of unfavorable weather conditions such as strong winds. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we ensure a safe and enjoyable island-hopping experience.

Dining:
Breakfast
Accommodation:
Bohol

Day 5 Bohol | Lila Whale Shark Watching

After breakfast, your guide will pick you up at your hotel and drive (about a 1-hour drive) to Lila town on Panglao Island. And then board a boat for a unique experience of swimming with whale sharks - the largest sharks and fish in the world, typically measuring 9-12 meters in length. The largest individuals can reach up to 20 meters in length and weigh up to 12,500 kg, making them the largest fish species. Whale sharks are known for their gentle nature, slow swimming speed, and often sunbathing at the water's surface. When you have the opportunity to get up close and personal with them, play with them and take pictures, you'll add an unforgettable memory to your extraordinary life. After swimming with the whale sharks, you will be transferred back to your hotel. Take note that seeing whale sharks during this tour is NOT GUARANTEED. Whale sharks are migratory animals, and even during the whale shark season, there is a possibility that you may not encounter one during your tour.

Optional Evening Activity: Have a magical experience with the Abatan River or Loay River firefly watching tour during sunset. Usually around 5:30-6:00 pm.

Dining:
Breakfast
Accommodation:
Bohol

Day 6 Bohol - Dumaguete | Port Transfer and Hotel Check-in

After breakfast, your guide will pick you up from your accommodation and then transfer you to seaport in Tagbilaran City, Bohol, where you can board the ferry via Ocean Jet and enjoy the approximately two-hour journey to Dumaguete.

Upon arrival at port in Dumaguete city, you will be transported to your hotel for check-in. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.

Dumaguete is the capital of the province of Negros Oriental and is known as the "City of Gentle People" due to its friendly and welcoming residents. It is a great destination for both relaxation and exploration, with easy access to beaches and nearby islands. Its proximity to popular dive sites such as Siquijor and Apo Island makes it a hub for adventure seekers and scuba diving enthusiasts. With its rich history, culture, and natural beauty, Dumaguete truly offers something for everyone.

Free Time Ideas:

Dumaguete's Boulevard is a long, tree-lined promenade that runs along the waterfront, and is the perfect spot for strolling, jogging, and watching the sunset.

Dining:
Breakfast
Accommodation:
Dumaguete

Day 7 Dumaguete | Apo Island Snorkeling

In the early morning,you will be picked up from your accommodation and then be transferred to Malatapay or Dauin Port, where you'll be boarding a boat for Apo Island.

Immerse in the rich underwater world of Apo Island, a 74-hectare volcanic island off Dauin, is a top diving and snorkeling destination in the Philippines. It is a pristine marine sanctuary home to 600 species of fish and over 400 species of corals, not to forget the turtles which are just about everywhere in the waters of Apo Island. Here, you can swim with the turtles! You'll find them bobbing their heads even in shallow waters. Aside from diving and turtle swimming, you'll be given free time to stroll around the island at your own pace and visit the local community, which has a unique and simple way of life. The island also features a viewing deck that offers a scenic view of the island and the sea. The viewing deck and the path leading to it are both cemented, so you can enjoy a stroll as you make your way there.

Afterward, your guide will take you back to Malatapay Port or Dauin and drop you off at your accommodation.

Dining:
Breakfast,Lunch
Accommodation:
Dumaguete

Day 8 Dumaguete - Siquijor - Dumaguete | Siquijor Island 

After breakfast, you will be picked up from your accommodation and transferred to the ferry station where you will take the Ferry (Oceanjet) to Siquijor Island. (Please note that the schedule going to Dumaguete - Siquijor is 7:20 am and the last trip will be 6:00 pm Siquijor - Dumaguete.)

Siquijor is a mysterious world of witchcraft and the unknown. Once there, you will head to your first stop to visit the local "House of Mangkukulam (healers)", which still retains a primitive and simple way of life. Experience the use of various strange animals and plants to prepare magical medicines based on ancient methods. The mangkukulam use weird spells passed down from their ancestors for generations to treat various difficult diseases.

Then, you’ll be taken to the century-old enchanted Balete Tree, which has a strange shape due to the hundreds of hanging vines, and is said to be a gathering place for wizards. Due to the abundant water sources where mountain springs converge, the small fish in the water eagerly await the tourists' calluses on their feet for lunch. Let's see what surprises these little wizards can bring us!

Then visit the oldest St. Isidore Church and Convent a historic landmark located on Siquijor Island and considered one of the best examples of Spanish colonial architecture in the country.The church is made of coral stones and features a baroque-style facade that is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. The interior of the church is just as impressive, with beautiful stained glass windows, ornate altars, and a stunning ceiling painted with frescoes.

Next, visit the Cambugahay Waterfall, a very quiet and special multi-level waterfall. Especially during the holy season each year, the surging water looks enchanted.Finally, take a boat to Salagdoong Beach, which is also one of the top ten famous diving spots in Asia. At the same time, you can also enjoy the only private beach that is over 800 meters wide.

Should you have more time, you may also go to Paliton Beach. It is home to powdery white sand, clear waters, and coconut trees that provide visitors shade. Take a dip or just lounge in the sand before boarding the ferry heading back to Dumaguete.

Dining:
Breakfast,Lunch
Accommodation:
Dumaguete

Day 9 Dumaguete Departure | Hotel Check-out and Airport/Port See-off

On this day, you will have some free time in Dumaguete until your guide and driver will escort you to the Dumaguete port or Sibulan airport to get to your next destination. Or from Dumaguete, you can board a direct flight heading back to Manila.

Thank you for choosing Philippines Discovery for your vacation. We are always here to serve you and look forward to welcoming you back for your next trip to the Philippines!

Departure Ideas: Travelers can take flight from Dumaguete to Manila, Cebu, and more. Alternatively, also boats/ferries are available from Dumaguet to Cebu, etc. Let us know your preferences and we will help you arrange your transportation.

Dining:
Breakfast
Accommodation:
Dumaguete

Price: What’s Included & What’s Excluded

What's included?

Professional licensed English-speaking guide;

Domestic flights (economy class) or ferries as listed in the itinerary;

Admission tickets for all attractions listed in the itinerary;

Accommodation as listed in the itinerary (economy class hotels);

Necessary vehicle transfers as listed in the itinerary;

Airport transfers: it include airport transfers to and from the hotel.

Meals listed in “breakfast” or “lunch” in the above day to day itinerary;

Travel insurance

24/7 customer support

What's excluded?

Entry visa fees

Arrival/departure flights or ferries on the first and last day

Personal expenses

Single room supplement

Recommended optional activities: It may offer optional activities that are not included in the tour price, such as scuba diving, hot spring, etc.

Tips or gratuities for guides and drivers

Important Trip Notes for Booking This Tour

Traveler Tips

"Plan your itinerary in advance to make the most of your trip. There are many things to see and do in the Philippines, so plan your itinerary in advance to ensure you don't miss out on anything."

"Respect the local culture and customs. The Philippines has a rich and diverse culture, so be respectful of local customs and traditions."

"Research the weather and climate of the places you'll be visiting. The Philippines has a tropical climate, but weather conditions can vary depending on the time of year and location."

"Bring cash, as many places in the Philippines still prefer cash over credit cards."

For more travel tips in the Philippines, please contact us to plan your trip now.

What to Bring for the Philippines Tour

  • Passport (Valid for 6 months from date of departure)
  • Vaccination Card
  • Camera, phone, charger, and power bank
  • Personal sanitizing alcohol and face mask
  • Personal drinking water and or snacks
  • Personal Medicine
  • Extra money in Philippine Peso Currency
  • Sunblock, umbrella
  • Swimwear and extra clothes

Cancellation Policy

  • Cancellation requests made 15 days or more prior to the start of the tour will receive a full refund.
  • Cancellation requests made between 7-14 days or more prior to the start of the tour will receive 50% refund.
  • Cancellation requests made less than 7 days prior to the start of the tour are non-refundable.
  • All cancellation requests must be made in writing and sent to Philippines Discovery via email or letter.
  • Hotels once booked are non-refundable.
  • Philippines Discovery reserves the right to cancel a tour due to unforeseen circumstances. In the event of a cancellation, customers will receive a full refund or the option to reschedule to an alternative date.

Hotel Class & Where to Stay for Philippines Tour

When planning a tour of the Philippines, choosing the right hotel class and accommodation can greatly impact your overall experience. Hotels in the Philippines are classified as Deluxe Class, First Class, Standard Class, and Economy Class. We have carefully selected hotels from different classes to offer you a range of options.

Typically, our Philippines tour packages are based on Economy Class hotels in different destinations. If you want to upgrade your hotel class, simply inform your travel expert and they will assist you. Please note that we usually recommend staying in the downtown area or town proper of each location, but we can also arrange for accommodations on nearby islands for a fantastic experience that meets your needs.

Photo Gallery: Enjoy Stunning Photos for the Trip

see more
See more

Your Worry-free Choices with Philippines Discovery

Cancellation Policy

We provide a transparent overview of applicable fees.

Travel Insurance

Be covered for any unforseen circumatances.

Read Latest Reviews about This Tour

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.8

Itinerary

Excellent

4.8

Guide

Excellent

4.8

Transport

Excellent

4.8

Accommodation

Excellent

4.8

Food

Excellent

4.8

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.8
Nancy & Kay
Rating:
Reviewed on April 21, 2023
Amazing Trip to Palawan, especially had great fun in EI Nido
I went on a tour of the Palawan islands and it was absolutely breathtaking. The crystal clear waters and stunning limestone cliffs left me in awe. I highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Palawan.
Kristine C
Rating:
Reviewed on March 17, 2023
Lots of interesting things to see and spots to visit
The El Nido island hopping tour was a lot of fun. We got to visit several beautiful islands and lagoons, and even went snorkeling. It's a great way to explore the natural beauty of Palawan. And, I highly recommend the Underground River tour in Puerto Princesa. The cave system is incredible and our guide was very knowledgeable.
Jenniferf563
Rating:
Reviewed on February,13 2023
A Trip to Bohol and around
The Bohol Countryside tour was a great way to experience the local culture and history. My tour of the Chocolate Hills in Bohol was one of the highlights of my trip. The unique geological formations were unlike anything I had ever seen before. The Tarsier Sanctuary in Bohol was a must-see on my tour. These tiny primates were adorable and the sanctuary did an amazing job of educating visitors about conservation efforts.
ChampBo
Rating:
Reviewed on March 25, 2023
Coron Island Hopping Tour - Just AMAZING!!!
The Coron Island Hopping Tour was a lot of fun. We got to visit several beautiful islands and lagoons, and even went snorkeling. It's a must-do when visiting Coron. On my fourth day in Coron, the Coron Wreck Diving tour was an amazing experience. The World War II shipwrecks were hauntingly beautiful, and it was incredible to see so much marine life thriving in and around the wrecks.
JS-JN
Rating:
Reviewed on February 21, 2023
Enjoyed a great trip to Apo Island
The Apo Island in Bohol snorkeling tour was an incredible experience. The marine life was abundant and we even saw sea turtles up close.
Why Travel with Philippines Discovery

(98.8% positive customer reviews among 1,000+)

Unique experiences tailored to your interests
Hassle-free travel and peace of mind
Experienced and knowledgeable guides
Customize Your Own Trip
Data in submission...

Compare Similar Experiences

Keep Exploring Philippines

Send an InquirySend an Inquiry