How to Book Philippines Tour Packages: Your Gateway to Paradise

Traveling to the Philippines offers an adventure into a nation defined by its pristine beaches, culture, and scenic landscapes. Tour packages to this archipelagic country simplify the vacation experience, combining flights, accommodations, transfers, and guided tours.

This leads to a hassle-free holiday, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the country’s offerings without the complexity of independently coordinating each aspect of their trip.

Philippines vacation packages cater to diverse interests, from historical tours introducing visitors to centuries-old sites like Binondo, Manila’s historic Chinatown, to the 17th-century San Agustin Church.

Equally appealing are the natural attractions of the Philippines, which include the famed rice terraces, marine sanctuaries, and lush mountainous regions, all accessible through organized tours. These itineraries are tailored to different age groups and preferences, ensuring each traveler finds a package that best suits their desired experience.

The convenience these packages offer includes benefits like free cancellation and a best-price guarantee, instilling confidence in potential travelers.

This approach to vacation planning not only saves time but also provides the security of a well-organized trip. From budget-friendly options to more luxurious experiences, Philippines tour packages are designed to introduce the archipelago’s diverse attractions comprehensively.

Choosing Your Destination

The Philippines offers a diverse range of destinations, each with its unique attractions. Whether your interests lie in urban exploration, beach relaxation, natural wonders, or cultural experiences, this Southeast Asian nation has a tour package to match.

Manila: The Urban Starting Point

Manila is the capital city of the Philippines, serving as the usual starting point for most tours. A Manila tour package typically includes visits to historical landmarks such as Intramuros, Rizal Park, and the National Museum.

Boracay: Island Paradise

Boracay is renowned for its white sand beaches and vibrant nightlife. Boracay tour packages cater to those looking for a sun-soaked retreat with options for water activities like snorkeling and diving.

Palawan: Pristine Nature

Palawan is home to stellar natural beauty with destinations like El Nido and Coron. Palawan tour packages and Coron Palawan tour packages often involve island-hopping excursions to lagoons and hidden beaches.

Cebu: The Queen City of the South

Cebu City anchors Cebu Island, known for historical sites and nearby Mactan’s beaches. Cebu tour packages combine urban charms with access to natural spots such as the Kawasan Falls.

Bohol: Chocolate Hills and Tarsiers

Bohol tour packages feature the iconic Chocolate Hills, picturesque landscapes, and a chance to see the tiny tarsier in its natural habitat.

Siargao: The Surfing Capital

Siargao, famed as the surfing capital, attracts wave enthusiasts and Siargao tour packages are centered around surfing spots like Cloud 9.

Banaue and Batad: The Rice Terraces

The Banaue and Batad rice terraces represent profound human ingenuity. Sagada and Baguio tour packages on Luzon Island often extend to these terraces, providing a glimpse into the region’s culture.

Other Notable Destinations

Luzon also hosts destinations like Tagaytay near Taal Volcano, while Port Barton offers a quieter Palawan experience. Each location presents a unique facet of the Philippines, inviting travelers to explore beyond the usual tourist path.

See Related: 10 Largest Islands in the Philippines

Package Types and Themes

Philippine tour packages cater to various preferences, offering a mix of adventure, cultural immersion, relaxation, and specialized experiences tailored to unique interests.

Adventure and Exploration

Providers like One Life Adventures and Intrepid Travel offer adventure tours that take travelers through the diverse landscapes of the Philippines. These packages often include activities like zip-lining, caving, and ATV rides.

Cultural and Historical Tours

Cultural and historical tours guide visitors through the rich history of the Philippines, from the streets of Binondo, Manila’s oldest Chinatown, to the heritage of Spanish colonialism seen in historical landmarks such as the San Agustin Church.

Leisure and Relaxation Packages

For those seeking a peaceful getaway, packages include stays at tranquil resorts providing beachfront relaxation and services for a serene holiday experience. These often feature Palawan Island as a prime destination for luxury and leisure.

Island-Hopping Excursions

Island-hopping packages enable travelers to visit multiple islands, such as the stunning locales of El Nido and Coron. These excursions might be aboard local outrigger boats, known as “bangkas,” allowing for an authentic island hopper experience.

Diving and Snorkeling Adventures

The Philippines, being an archipelago with rich marine biodiversity, offers diving and snorkeling packages that take adventurers to renowned spots like Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park and the coral gardens of Apo Island.

Trekking and Active Islands

Active travelers can engage in trekking tours that explore the terrains of Banaue and its famed rice terraces. Palawan Island also features in active island packages for its challenging trails and stunning hilltop views.

Tailor-Made and Specialty Tours

Specialty tour operators like CharlieTheTraveler or CTPH Tour craft tailor-made itineraries for those with specific interests, such as photography, food tours, or off-the-beaten-path adventures. These are designed to offer a personalized experience aligning with individual travel goals.

With a variety of themes and a plethora of destinations, the Philippines offers a bespoke tour package to fit every type of traveler’s adventure palette, historical curiosity, or relaxation needs.

Trip Planning Essentials

When choosing a Philippines tour package, travelers need to consider the duration of the trip, physical requirements, and more, to ensure a memorable and comfortable experience.

Understanding Travel Duration

Tour durations vary, typically spanning from 8 days to 17 days. A standard package might offer a 10-day island-hopping adventure, while a comprehensive 13-day tour could include multiple locations and activities.

Physical Ratings and Age Range

Packages should specify a physical rating, indicating the level of activity involved. Tours may accommodate a broad age range, but it’s crucial to verify this fits one’s personal capabilities and travel party’s demographics.

Group Dynamics and Size

Group tours can enhance the travel experience, offering social interactions and guided insights. Tour sizes can affect the experience, so one should check whether they prefer small group intimacy or a large group’s buzz.

Arrival and Departure Logistics

Most tours offer airport pickups and include transport via bus, boat, or flight within the country. Confirm whether these are from a specific airport and if the package includes ferry or alternative transportation options for island transfers.

Accommodation and Meals

Tour packages generally include hotel stays and may offer meal plans. Accommodations can range from budget to luxury, with variance in amenities. Meal inclusion is tour-dependent and should be clarified for budgeting purposes.

Budgeting for Your Trip

The price per day can be a good indicator of a tour’s value. Some packages may require a deposit upfront. To understand total costs, always itemize inclusions like meals, accommodations, and entry fees.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

Cancellation policies vary; look for options with free cancellation for flexibility. For peace of mind, seek tours with a Best Price Guarantee and straightforward booking processes.

By carefully considering these crucial elements, travelers can select tour packages that best suit their preferences and expectations.

Travel Information and Tips

Traveling to the Philippines offers an array of experiences from pristine beaches to vibrant festivals. It’s essential for travelers to be informed about the best times to visit, safety, health guidelines, language, and to consider feedback from those who have had the experience.

Best Time to Visit Philippines

The best time to visit the Philippines is typically during the dry season, from December to February, when the weather is cooler and less humid. March is also a popular time as it signals the start of summer, with many festivals occurring and less likelihood of rain.

Safety and Health Guidelines

Travelers should follow basic safety and health guidelines. This includes staying updated on any travel advisories, securing travel insurance, and following local laws. Regarding health, one should be up-to-date with vaccinations and practice good hygiene to avoid food and waterborne illnesses.

Philippines Travel Guide and Language

A comprehensive Philippines travel guide is invaluable for planning excursions. English is widely spoken, and most tour operators are English-speaking, facilitating smooth communication. Tagalog is the national language, and learning basic phrases can enrich the experience.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Before booking a trip, reading customer reviews and feedback is crucial for setting realistic expectations. Reviews often highlight the highs and lows of their experiences, assisting future visitors in making informed decisions about destinations and tour packages.

Tour Operators and Packages

When planning a trip to the Philippines, choosing the right tour operator and package is essential to ensure a memorable experience. Not only does it affect the quality and organization of the vacation, but it also influences the overall comfort and adventure travelers can expect.

Comparing Tour Operators

Several reputable tour operators offer an array of Philippines travel packages. Some notable ones include TruTravels, Intro Travel, and Wanderlands Travel, each known for different travel styles and unique itinerary options that cater to various interests and budgets. When comparing providers, it’s important to consider the package offerings’ response time, customer reviews, and comprehensiveness.

Philippines Tour Package Reviews

Tour package reviews are a valuable source for assessing the quality of a Philippines trip. Reviews often highlight the effectiveness of an operator’s organization, the accommodation standards, and the overall experience. For instance, feedback for TruTravels frequently praises organized but relaxed itineraries, while Intro Travel is noted for providing immersive local experiences. Reviews also mention that paying extra for private rooms is often deemed worth the additional cost.

Exploring Beyond the Itinerary

Philippines tour packages often include diverse activities, yet vacation packages can provide flexibility for those wishing to explore beyond the basic itinerary. Personal experiences can be enriched by engaging with local culture and communities, trying out additional adventure sports, or extending stays in particular locations that captivate travelers’ interests.

Special Offers and Discounts

From time to time, tour operators may present special offers and discounts to enhance the value of their Philippines travel packages. Deals can range from early bird discounts to last-minute bookings, with potential savings that can significantly affect a vacation budget.

For example, companies have been known to offer savings of up to $700 on select tours, which travelers can access by fulfilling certain conditions like writing a review post-trip. Travelers should watch the tour operators’ official channels for up-to-date information on such offers.

See Related: Best Travel Apps

Booking Your Philippine Adventure

When planning a getaway to the Philippines, a tour package can streamline the experience. Prospective travelers will find a variety of packages tailored to different activities, from snorkeling to cultural tours. Renowned for its stunning beaches and marine life, providers such as One Life Adventures offer itineraries that highlight these features.

Philippines Tour Packages often include:

Active Adventures: Inclusive of hiking, caving, and kayaking
Water Activities: With options for snorkeling and scuba diving
Cultural Immersion: Exploring local traditions and culinary delights
Relaxation: Time allotted for leisure at pristine beaches

For those interested in marine life, Philippine Scuba Diving Packages cater specifically to divers looking to explore the vibrant underwater world. Such packages may include multiple dives, equipment rental, and even certification courses.

Booking Tips:

Compare Deals: Websites like Trip.com and Expedia regularly offer travel deals and promotions.
Plan Ahead: Early bookings can secure spots on tours with limited capacity.
Read Reviews: Previous traveler insights can guide you to reputable tours.
Check Inclusions: Ensure that the package covers essential items to avoid extra costs.

Many tour operators prioritize convenience, guaranteeing secure payments and instant confirmations. With careful research and attention to detail, booking a Philippine tour package promises an enriching and hassle-free adventure.

Preparing for Departure

Before travelers embark on their journey to the Philippines, they should carefully prepare all necessary documents and familiarize themselves with local customs to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Checklist Before You Go

Documents:

Passport: Ensure that it is valid for at least 6 months beyond the expected return date.
Tickets: Confirm flight bookings and print out boarding passes if necessary.
Travel Insurance: Obtain comprehensive coverage for peace of mind.

Health and Safety:

Vaccinations: Check for any recommended or required vaccinations well in advance.
Medications: Bring a supply of personal medication with prescriptions.

Understanding Local Culture and Customs

Etiquette:

Greetings involve a polite “hello” or a nod.
Use “po” and “opo” to show respect, especially when speaking to elders.

Culture:

The Philippines is predominantly Catholic, so religious customs should be respected.
Always remove shoes when entering someone’s home.

Managing Expectations

Mindset:

Open-mindedness: Embrace new experiences and cultural differences.
Flexibility: Be prepared for unexpected changes in plans or schedules.

Experience:
Travelers should anticipate a balance between adventure and relaxation, understanding that adjustments may be necessary to align with local practices.