Share this itinerary with your clients via email.
Fantastic Philippines:
Manila, El Nido, and Cebu
A tropical paradise, fit for romance and nature, this country of 7,000 islands puts on a dizzying display of beauty. The Spanish influence can be found around every corner, but modern culture takes on many American traits. The pride of the Filipinos along with their gracious welcome and enthusiasm to share their culture with visitors really make this country shine as a top destination in Asia.
ACCOMMODATIONS
• 2 Nights Manila
• 4 Nights El Nido with All Meals
• 3 Nights Cebu
 
INCLUSIONS
•Arrival & Departure Transfers
•Private Old Manila Charms Tour
•Private Cebu City Tour
•Daily Breakfast
Arrive Manila:
Upon arrival at Manila Airport, meet your guide for a private transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free to explore your surroundings or just relax. Dinner on your own this evening.

(Accommodations, Manila)


Manila:
After breakfast, meet your guide for a tour of Old Manila. Your first stop will be Rizal Park, named after the country's national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. The tour continues with an overall view of old downtown Manila passing by Planetarium, National Museum, Manila City Hall, Jones Bridge, Filipino-Chinese friendship Arch towards Binondo area referred to as the local China Town.

Our next stop will be at Old Intramuros, built by the Spaniards and home of the elite during that long period of Spanish colonization in the Philippines. The battle for liberation of Manila in 1945 World War II left the area in ruins. Stop at San Agustin Church, the oldest stone church that withstood heavy bombardment during the World War II. From San Agustin Church, crossover to Casa Manila, colonial lifestyle museum that reflects the culture and traditions during the Spanish era. The tour continues to Fort Santiago, one of the oldest fort in Manila built in 1571. It was here that our national hero Dr. Jose Rizal spent his last days and where he wrote his famous "My Last Farewell". After the tour, you will return to your hotel, and the remainder of the day is free at your leisure.

(Breakfast & Accommodations, Manila)


Manila to El Nido:
After breakfast, you'll have a private transfer with your guide to the airport for your short one hour flight (not included) to enchanting El Nido. Your hotel representative will meet you and other guests at the airport exit for a transfer to the hotel.

El Nido is the primary base for exploring Palawan's star attraction, the stunning Bacuit Archipelago. Tiny swiftlets build edible nests out of saliva in the immense limestone cliffs that surround the town, hence the name, El Nido (nest in Spanish). Lagoons, preserved marine sanctuary, beaches; all make this island even more unique in the northern part of the archipelago.

The resort also borders a series of eco-sanctuaries, creating the ideal setting perfect for a trendy honeymoon. After a short boat ride, you'll arrive at the 4 star Miniloc Resort. Built with local materials, all rooms have thatched roofs, ceiling fans, and are completely powered by solar energy. With only 50 rooms, Miniloc creates a sense of intimacy and seclusion. All rooms offer air-conditioning, mini-bars, as well as a balcony/terrace.

(Breakfast, Manila; All Meals & Accommodations, Miniloc Resort)


El Nido:
After breakfast each day, you will have time to choose from one of the many activities available at Miniloc Resort, or perhaps explore the town or some of the other nearby islands. Miniloc Island is also a gateway to discover and explore the popular attractions around Bacuit Bay, such as the Big and Small Lagoons and Snake Island. Your resort can make arrangements for many of the tours.

Another attraction is the Small Lagoon, which sits on the northern end of Miniloc Island. What makes this a "must do" is the fact that it's an open top cathedral of limestone. Vertical walls of stone from a lagoon of shallow water form a nearly perfect circle. Once inside, staring up at the imposing walls, it starts to look like a very alien landscape.

A short boat ride away is Secret Beach on Matinloc Island; a pristine piece of sand hidden from sight by large limestone cliffs on all sides. Once inside, it feels like you are the only people on the planet. For diving enthusiasts, Hidden Beach is just a few miles away, and is home to over 30 dive sites.

Looking for more challenging outdoor adventures? On the mainland of El Nido, you can take a 1-2 hour hike through the lush forest area that brings you to the Nagkalit-Kalit waterfalls. The falls are 32 ft tall with water that slides down the rocks, shifting right and left. There are two falls, and between them is an inviting pool to take a swim. This can be done independently or with a guide.

But even if you choose to not venture far, just enjoy the serenity of the resort by reading, soaking up the sun, enjoying complimentary non-motorized water activities, or relaxing on the cabanas sipping cocktails.

(All Meals & Accommodations, Miniloc Resort)




El Nido:
After breakfast, soak up some sunshine and take to the pristine waters for kayaking or paddle boarding.

(All Meals & Accommodations, Miniloc Resort)





El Nido:
After breakfast, take advantage of one of the daily island hopping tours from the resort or venture out to explore the Big and Small Lagoons of Miniloc Island.

(All Meals & Accommodations, Miniloc Resort)





El Nido to Cebu:
After breakfast, meet hotel representative for a shared transfer to the airport for a flight (not included) to Cebu. Upon landing, you’ll have a private transfer to your hotel.

**Please kindly note that this itinerary is based on inclusions at Miniloc Resort, other properties may have different options. Inclusions at Miniloc Resort are subject to change.

(Breakfast, Miniloc Resort; Accommodations, Cebu)

Cebu:
In the morning, meet your private guide for a Cebu City Tour.

Travel to Magellan’s Cross which marks the spot where the first Christian Fiilipinos were baptized. Travel across the Magellan’s Cross to the Basilica Minore Del Sto. Nino De Cebu. The image of the Santo Nino, which is kept in the Santo Nino Chapel of the Basilica is considered the oldest religious relic in the Philippines. Continue on to the SM City Cebu where you’ll find free time to explore the shops before returning back to your hotel.

(Breakfast & Accommodations, Cebu)


Cebu:
Spend the day at leisure, exploring the city on your own; or consider one of our recommended optional tours:

Private South Countryside Tour With your private guide and driver, have a leisurely drive through picturesque rural roads outskirt of Cebu City and be refreshed with the pastoral scenery on the way. Dive into the Philippine culture with visits to centuries old churches and colorful markets.

(Breakfast & Accommodations, Cebu)






Depart:
After breakfast, you'll have a private transfer to the airport for your return home or onward to your next Avanti Destination!

(Breakfast, Cebu)





 
** Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
#travelavanti