New for 2025, embark on an unforgettable adventure in the Philippines, starting with a warm welcome in Manila, where we’ll explore both the modern city and its historic sites. We then fly to Bohol to witness the breathtaking Chocolate Hills, meet one of the world’s most fascinating creatures – the Philippine Tarsier, and enjoy delightful river cruises and snorkelling on idyllic shores. We move on to discover the wonders of El Nido with island hopping, where we’ll swim in crystal-clear waters and soak up the sun on stunning beaches. We experience the exhilarating Via Ferrata Canopy Walk for panoramic views, and enjoy the freedom of exploring Nacpan Beach on a scooter. Concluding the trip with cherished memories and newfound friendships, we will have truly experienced the beauty and rich culture of this tropical paradise before returning to the UK.
We land in Manila after our overnight flights from the UK. On arrival, we’ll transfer to our hotel for our first two night stay.
Today, we’ll embark on a tour of Manila, starting in the bustling Makati area and visiting the stunning American Memorial Cemetery. We experience the rich history of Old Manila with a visit to Rizal Park, home to the national hero Dr. Jose Rizal’s remains, followed by exploring the historic walled city of Intramuros. Highlights include Fort Santiago, Casa Manila, and a delightful lunch at Barbara’s Spanish Restaurant. The tour concludes at San Agustin Church, the oldest structure in the Philippines, and the scenic Baluarte de San Diego.
We’ll fly to Bohol today, where we will be transferred to our hotel for the next four nights.
We’ll leave the resort after breakfast for an exciting day trip to Bohol, beginning at the Philippine Tarsier Foundation in Corella to observe the world’s smallest primate in its natural habitat. Next, visit the historical Blood Compact site in Baclayon, where a significant friendship was sealed between Spain’s Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and Datu Sikatuna.
We explore the centuries-old stone church in Baclayon, which features a museum of religious art and artifacts, before passing through the Bilar man-made forest on our way to the famous Chocolate Hills, where we can hike to a viewpoint for stunning views. The day concludes with a delightful lunch on a floating restaurant while cruising down the Loboc River, before returning to our hotel in the late afternoon.
Our day starts with an early breakfast before we board an outrigger motorboat for a 35-minute ride to a beautiful islet off the coast of Panglao, known for its exceptional dive sites. Upon arrival, enjoy the crystal-clear blue waters, perfect for snorkelling, where we can see vibrant underwater formations and tropical fish just beneath the surface, and keep an eye out for migrating dolphins. After exploring the island on foot and visiting the local village, we enjoy lunch at the island’s resort before returning to the hotel in the late afternoon.
An early start this morning for an unforgettable snorkelling experience with giant whale sharks, allowing us to encounter these gentle giants up close. Our adventure begins with a briefing at Lila Whale Shark Snorkelling in Bohol and after donning life jackets, it’s time to hop on a boat to start this thrilling journey. We’ll be back at the hotel before lunch, leaving the rest of our last day in Bohol to be enjoyed at our leisure.
We leave the beautiful Bohol behind today as we fly to El Nido. On arrival, we transfer to our hotel for the next four nights.
Today we experience a full day of island hopping with a picnic lunch, exploring stunning locations such as Seven Commando Beach, Big Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Payong Payong Beach, and Secret Lagoon. We’ll enjoy snorkelling, kayaking, and swimming in crystal-clear waters with each stop offering unique landscapes and vibrant marine life, perfect for an unforgettable day in paradise.
Today, we get to experience the El Nido Via Ferrata Canopy Walk, an exhilarating adventure that allows us to explore the stunning landscapes of the region from a unique vantage point. The experience begins with a short 15-20 minute hike through lush greenery, leading to a series of well-constructed steel walkways and suspension bridges suspended high above the ground.
As we traverse the canopy, we’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of El Nido town, the turquoise waters of Bacuit Bay, and the surrounding limestone cliffs.
We experience the freedom of a half-day moped or scooter rental as we cruise to Nacpan Beach, explore the charming town, which has its roots in the small Tagbanua village of Talindak, and discover local art and souvenir shops like El Nido Boutique Art Café. At Nacpan Beach, we’ll have time at leisure to enjoy the scenery and take a refreshing dip in its crystal-clear waters.
After a final leisurely breakfast in paradise, we fly back to Manila today to connect with our flights back to the UK.
We stay in superior four-star hotels throughout as detailed below (or similar):
Frequently Asked Questions
The transfer time from Manila Airport to Belmont Hotel is only 15 minutes, traffic depending.
Casual daytime light-weight “layers” are recommended. Comfortable shoes are a “must” for sightseeing. Smart, casual wear for the included evening dinners.
There is often confusion on the question of gratuities, since it frequently depends on the type of holiday, location and, of course, your attitude towards tipping, as to what is normally expected. To give you a rough idea, we have given appropriate guidance below.
The Tour Leader will be on hand to offer advice or suggestions if required but gratuities are offered entirely at the sole discretion of the individual. We suggest a group collection at the beginning of your holiday to cover drivers, guides, porters and hotel staff of approximately £50. Your Tour Leader will collect this on your behalf and distribute it accordingly, thus relieving you of the burden of who, when and how much to tip.
All passengers must be in possession of a full 10-year passport with at least 6 months validity after the return date. British citizens can enter the Philippines without a visa for an initial period of 30 days.
At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the latest country-specific health advice from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) on the TravelHealthPro website. Each country-specific page has information on vaccine recommendations, any current health risks or outbreaks,and fact sheets with information on staying healthy abroad. Guidance is also available from NHS (Scotland) on the FitForTravel website.
General information on travel vaccinations and a travel health checklist is available on the NHS website. You may then wish to contact your health adviser or pharmacy for advice on other preventive measures and managing any pre-existing medical conditions while you’re abroad.
The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or purchased in the UK can be different in other countries. If you’re travelling with prescription or over-the-counter medicine, read this guidance from NaTHNaC on best practice when travelling with medicines. For further information on the legal status of a specific medicine, you’ll need to contact the embassy, high commission or consulate of the country or territory you’re travelling to.
As requirements change from time to time it is always advisable to check with your GP, especially just prior to travelling to be aware of any recent changes to the health information.
It is also recommended that you take insect repellent, antiseptic/antihistamine cream, lip salve, salt tablets, rehydration sachets, and a good sunscreen! Tapwater should be avoided. We advise you to use bottled water for cleaning your teeth and avoid ice in drinks.
US dollars is the best currency to take and exchange to Philippine Peso. Credit cards are widely accepted in the Philippines.
A good level of fitness is required for this trip.
“I’m sure you will enjoy it, I have been on three solos holidays to date and the people I’ve met have been great.”
“I’ve been travelling with Solos for nearly 20 years, on and off. The reason is for exactly what you want – you meet like minded people… and have loads of fun!”
“I’ve been on loads of trips with Solos over the years and can honestly say you will not regret booking your 1st one!”
“The feeling you have once you go away on your own is worth all the nerves before! I was so very anxious the first time but now having done it 4 times, I love it!”
