PROMO : Discover Visayas, in the center of the Philippines

You arrive at Mactan Airport. After going through immigration and getting your bags, your driver will be waiting outside to take you to the city center for check-in. Tonight, you'll stay at Cebu Parklane International Hotel. This hotel lives up to its motto, "A Cebu hotel that shows Cebu." Paintings and pictures on the walls show Cebu's history, fun things to do, and celebrations. You'll see them on every floor and in your room.

The hotel is close to many cool places to see, like the old Magellan's Cross, Cebu Cathedral, and the Museo Sugbo. You can also easily get to the beautiful Busay mountains and the white-sand beaches on Mactan Island. If you like adventure, you can try water sports or zip lining and canyoning.

The island of Cebu is in the middle of the Visayas region. It's about 200 kilometers long and 40 kilometers wide. Even though it's not that big, it's still one of the most important places in the Philippines for culture and business. Cebu City is the oldest city in the Philippines, and people call it the "Queen City of the South." The city does a lot of business with other countries (it's the second busiest port in the Philippines) and has many call centers, especially in the IT Park area.

Depending on when you arrive and how tired you are, after relaxing a bit, we can take you to see the must-see places in Cebu City's old town, like the Magellan's Cross and the Santo Niño church, which has the famous statue of the Child Jesus brought over 500 years ago.

After an early breakfast, a driver will drive you along the coast to Oslob, in the south of the island. Along the way, you'll have a quick stop to visit the picturesque market of the small town of Carcar. Here, you can immerse yourself in local life and discover the unique fruits and fish of the Visayas (archipelago in the central Philippines). The Carcar market is especially famous for Lechon Baboy (spit-roasted pig, a legacy of Spanish colonization). 

Then, you will take the road to Oslob, a small town now known worldwide for its assembly of whale sharks, the largest fish in creation, visible only in a few places in the world.

Whale Shark Watching in Oslob

Whale shark observation in Oslob is done from small outrigger boats called bancas. These bancas can hold 6 to 12 passengers and a guide. The observation itself lasts 30 minutes.

You can take photos and, if you wish, get into the water with a mask and snorkel (provided on site) to swim alongside these magnificent creatures.

While some whale shark specimens reach 14 meters in length and weigh up to 10 tonnes, the whale sharks in Oslob are typically young males and therefore smaller. These gentle giants are completely harmless, feeding only on plankton, small fish like sardines and anchovies, and krill. Their calm demeanor has earned them the nickname "Shark Ambassadors."  Whale sharks are a protected species.

Sumilon Island

After swimming alongside the majestic whale sharks in Oslob, set sail for Sumilon Island. There, you'll be treated to a delicious Filipino lunch under swaying palm trees on a pristine sandbar, a true gem off the southern coast of Cebu.

Island of Negros

After lunch, you will head to the Santander-Liloan pier to cross the channel and reach Negros Island.

Negros, located in the Western Visayas region, is divided into two provinces: Negros Occidental in the southwest, with Dumaguete as its capital, and Negros Oriental in the northeast, with Bacolod as its capital. Negros is one of the world's main producers of sugarcane, with the largest sugarcane plantations found on the island. This is why Negros has earned the nickname "Sugar Island."

The Tablas Plateau in the south of the island offers breathtaking landscapes, particularly the twin lakes and the Casaroro waterfalls. The coastline leading to these incredible treasures will surely amaze you. The west coast boasts delicate white sand beaches, while the east coast offers a contrast with its small, dark sand coves.

From Sibulan port, we will head directly to Coco Grande for check-in and relaxation.

Optional Activity: Siliman University Anthropology Museum

Following that, for those interested, there will be an optional walking tour to visit the anthropology museum of Silliman University, the oldest Protestant university in the Philippines.

After breakfast, we'll embark on a journey to discover the mountainous and volcanic countryside of Dumaguete, a region boasting numerous lakes, impressive waterfalls, and breathtaking landscapes of rice fields, coconut trees, volcanoes, and beaches.

Next, we'll return to Sibulan and follow the coast before ascending towards the twin lakes, situated about 900 meters above sea level. These ancient crater lakes offer stunning views on the way up. Balinsasayao Park, a protected nature reserve with diverse flora and fauna, awaits us. You can choose to cross the first lake by boat or explore it on foot. On the other side, a high turret provides a panoramic view of both lakes.

We'll then retrace our steps for lunch at a restaurant with a beautiful view of the valley and the nearby Tañon Strait. After a delicious meal, we'll head towards Valencia to discover the Pulang Bato Falls, known for their ferrous waters originating from Mount Talinis, the highest point in the province. Enjoy a refreshing swim under the falls or in a nearby pool filled with spring water. Before returning to the resort, we'll make a stop for a relaxing soak in the hot springs further down the road. Negros is one of the four regions in the Philippines utilizing geothermal energy. The plant here produces and supplies enough electricity for the city and even neighboring regions.

Finally, it will be time to return to Coco Grande for dinner, which you can enjoy either at the hotel or in the surrounding area.

You'll depart Coco Grande early in the morning to catch the 7:20 AM Ocean Jet ferry. The ferry ride to Siquijor Island takes about 45 minutes. Once you arrive, drop your luggage off at the hotel and freshen up. Then, a local motorized tricycle called a "tuktuk" will be waiting to take you on a fun tour to explore Siquijor!

Siquijor, once called La Puerta del Fuego by the Spanish for its firefly-illuminated nights, will captivate you with its tranquility and beauty. After breakfast, depart on a scenic journey along the under-traveled 80km coastal road, discovering hidden beaches like Salagdoong. Stop at the historic Lazi Church and convent, tour a virgin coconut oil factory (with shopping opportunities!), and cool off at the refreshing Cambugahay Falls. Immerse yourself in the island's mystical reputation by learning about the practices of local healers. Enjoy a unique fish spa treatment under the shade of a centuries-old banyan tree. Before returning, visit the shell museum (located next to Coco Grove) for a touch of local culture.

Nestled on the east coast's vast sandy beach of San Juan, Coco Grove Beach Resort welcomes you with its spacious, traditional charm. This haven boasts three swimming pools, two restaurants, a spa, and a diving center. Spend the rest of your afternoon soaking in the beauty of the 700-meter beach and enjoying the resort's amenities. Explore the vibrant marine life of the Tubod Marine Reserve, located right in front of your resort – grab a mask and snorkel and dive in!

If serenity with white sand beaches, clear blue skies, and coral-rich waters teeming with marine life is your dream, Siquijor is the perfect destination. Also known as the "Island of Fire," this small Philippine island is renowned for its healers and sorcerers. Each year, healers gather to stock up on herbs, roots, oils, and traditional concoctions.

Hilot, the traditional Filipino massage, translates to "massage" or "healer" in Tagalog. More than just a technique, Hilot shares similarities with acupuncture and aromatherapy. It aims to improve blood circulation and other bodily fluids, promoting emotional well-being and trauma release.  Hilot transcends a mere art form for Filipinos - it's a cultural and philosophical cornerstone. This massage often incorporates herbs, but what truly sets it apart is the use of hot leaves soaked in virgin coconut oil, applied to the body after the massage.

For a delightful finale, savor a delicious dinner at the Salamandas restaurant, conveniently located on the beach within the hotel.

Your free day offers the perfect chance to explore or simply relax. You can choose to unwind at the hotel with a massage in one of the country's finest spas, located right on-site.

Alternatively, embark on a boat trip to Apo Island, a rocky haven surrounded by breathtakingly preserved coral reefs. Simply don a mask and snorkel to admire the wonders beneath the waves – if the turtles don't mesmerize you first!

The boat departs Coco Grove Beach at 7:30 am. The journey takes just over an hour. Upon arrival, accompanied by a local guide, you'll enter the marine sanctuary and have the chance to swim alongside turtles. Apo's coral reef boasts incredible biodiversity; biologists from Siliman University have documented over 600 fish species and 400 coral species, making it one of the Philippines' top five snorkeling destinations (fin, mask, and snorkel rental available). Divers will also find this a remarkable opportunity.

Lunch will be served on the beach at Apo Island Beach Resort. After a delicious meal, enjoy free time to relax and swim in the crystal-clear waters.

The return trip to the resort departs in the late afternoon, arriving around 4:30 pm. (Please note: the Apo Island trip requires reservation and payment directly at the hotel.)

For those seeking further relaxation, the hotel spa, renowned as one of the country's best, offers a variety of massage treatments. Alternatively, explore the island by renting a scooter and discovering hidden gems like Mount Bandilaan (the island's highest point at 600 meters above sea level) or the Cantabon Cave. Scooters are available for rent at the resort or nearby shops.

After breakfast, you will depart Coco Grove at 7:15 am for the port of Siquijor. From there, you will board the 8:20 am Ocean Jet bound for Tagbilaran. The ferry crossing takes between 1.5 and 2 hours.

Upon arrival at the port, a vehicle will be waiting to take you away on an exploration of Bohol.

Our tour will take you to discover the island's most captivating sites. The itinerary includes:

• Loboc Eco-tourism Adventure Park (optional, 450 pesos/person): This 520-meter long, 120-meter high steel cable ferry crosses the river, offering a bird's-eye view and a thrilling ride in a lying position. (Note: This activity is optional.)
• The Tarsier Sanctuary: Home to the world's smallest primate, the endangered tarsier. Bohol boasts two sanctuaries where you can observe these shy, nocturnal creatures in their natural habitat, as captivity is detrimental to their well-being.
• The Bilar Man-Made Forest: This impressive forest was entirely planted by humans.
• The Chocolate Hills: These astounding geological formations takes on a chocolate-brown hue in the dry season.
• Loboc River Lunch Cruise: Enjoy a relaxing lunch cruise on a barge, surrounded by the lush tropical jungle and serenaded by music.
• Baclayon Church (or Alburquerque Church): The oldest stone church on the island, a historical landmark that stands as a testament to the Spanish Christianization of Bohol.
• The Blood Compact: A statue commemorating the blood pact between Miguel López de Legazpi and Datu Sikatuna in 1565, signifying the agreement between the Spanish conquistadors and the Boholano people.

Your driver will then drop you off at the banks of the Loboc River, specifically at the Loboc River Resort, where you'll spend the night.

The Loboc River Resort is a beautiful eco-lodge comprised of charming cottages on stilts along the riverbank. The tropical atmosphere, the magic of the river, and the staff's extreme friendliness lend this intimate, twenty-room establishment an incomparable charm. Its location is ideal for exploring the interior of Bohol.

After dinner on the deck, you'll embark on a short cruise to see the fireflies illuminate the trees along the river.

After breakfast, you will have time to enjoy the hotel swimming pool and take a canoe or SUP ride on the river. At the end of the morning, around 11 a.m., you will depart the Loboc River resort and make a stop at Hinagdanan Cave to refresh yourself before continuing to the Bohol Bee Farm for lunch.

The Bohol Bee Farm is a unique hotel and restaurant that features its own organic garden. Freshly harvested produce is served directly on your plate. You can enjoy flower salads with a homemade vinaigrette dressing, moringa butter, honey produced from freshly harvested hives, and ginger ice cream.

After lunch, you will arrive at your resort on Panglao: the Bohol Beach Club (or Amarela depending on availability) where you will spend your next two nights.

Rise and shine! After sunrise, from 6:30 AM, embark on a banca boat towards Pamilacan Island, renowned for dolphin encounters and the warm hospitality of its residents. You might even catch a glimpse from the hotel beach! The captain and crew will be on the lookout for dolphins, and with a bit of luck, you'll witness a magical show.

Next, explore the beauty of Pamilacan's white sand beach. Snorkel in the marine sanctuary and vibrant coral gardens. Savor a traditional lunch prepared by the village women, right on the beach.

Relax and Explore:

Choose to unwind with a traditional massage on the beach, or take a leisurely stroll along the vast, deserted coastline.

The return trip to Panglao is scheduled for around 3 PM, leaving you with a free afternoon to enjoy your hotel amenities or explore Alona Beach, the lively tourist area bustling with restaurants, hotels, bars, and diving clubs.

After breakfast, you will depart your resort and head to the port of Tagbilaran. There, you will board the Ocean Jet bound for Cebu. The ferry crossing takes approximately 2 hours. Upon arrival in Cebu, you will have the opportunity to visit the Santo Niño Basilica, the oldest church in the Philippines and, in fact, all of Asia. The Basilica houses the famous Santo Niño statue, which was brought by Ferdinand Magellan. Following your visit, you will head to Mactan for your return flight home. 

We will drop you off at Terminal 2 of Mactan International Airport approximately 3 hours before your flight.