18 to 35s Essential Philippines

Maligayang pagdating! Welcome to the Philippines. Your adventure begins in the city of Cebu with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, you might like to wander around the 16th-century landmarks that show the city’s Spanish influence and history. Maybe visit the Cebu Taoist Temple or get sweeping views over the city at Tops – a popular observation deck on Mt Busay.

This morning, you’ll head out on a city tour of Cebu with your leader. See the popular historic landmarks, like Magellan's Cross, Fort San Pedro, Casa Gorordo Museum and the Basilica del Santo Nino (the oldest Roman Catholic church in the country!). Learn some local knowledge from your guide while you soak in the city’s island atmosphere, then head to an optional lunch of lechon (a whole roasted pig cooked over an open flame, typically served for special occasions) – popularly deemed the ‘best pig ever’ by chef Anthony Bourdain. After lunch, take the ferry to Bohol – known for its coral reefs and the unusual Chocolate Hills. Arrive in the capital of Tagbilaran, then transfer to your hotel for the night.

Take a tour of the best local spots in Bohol today. First up is Can-umantad Falls – these 60-m-high cascades are the tallest in Bohol and have been coined ‘Bohol’s best kept secret.’ Next, continue to the Cadapdapan Rice Terraces and take in the vast landscape carved with mesmerising layers of lush greenery. The rest of the day is free for you to enjoy Bohol however you like. Maybe relax on the beach with a refreshing drink in hand and soak up the laidback island vibes.

Today is a free day for you to enjoy Bohol – you’re on island time! You might like to relax on the beach with a good book, get out and about to explore the island, go for a swim or go kayaking to explore the sparkling blue waters from a different perspective. Tonight, why not gather your new travel friends and head out for some fresh seafood for dinner.

Rise very early today for a sunrise breakfast at Chocolate Hills – don't forget your camera! These 1200 unusual geological formations are symmetrical mounds that jut up from the jungle. In the dry season, they turn brown, in stark contrast to the surrounding greenery (hence the name). Over pastries, fruits and a glass of sikwate (a Boholano hot chocolate drink), watch this strange landscape light up with the day’s sunshine. Then, head out on the Loboc River. Take a yoga lesson on stand-up paddleboards, surrounded by lush jungle (what better way to start the day?), then have some lunch on the riverbank. After, follow your local leader for a community tour of this quiet, rural town, learning what life is like by the river. First, you’ll have the chance to make your own ‘nipa’ roof, from harvesting the indigenous materials to seeing the finished product. Taste some coconut wine, walk through the rice paddies and spot some carabao (water buffalo). Learn the kuradang (the traditional dance of the area), then open your own coconut and raise a toast to an authentic look into the culture. Later today, drive to Panglao Island. Located just off Bohol Island, Panglao is known for its gorgeous white beaches, swaying palm trees and calm atmosphere. When you arrive, maybe find a good local restaurant to lounge in.

Today is a free day for you to discover the island at your own pace. Maybe spend the day on an optional Pamilacan Island marine tour and try to spot the resident whales and dolphins with the crew of your outrigger boat. After trying to spot spinner dolphins and some of the six species of whale that pass through here, you’ll head to the marine sanctuary where you can go snorkelling to spot some more wildlife up close! Then, take a walking tour of the island and sit down under the sun for a local seafood lunch made by the women’s association. Learn about the local culture, including how they harvest sea urchins and work to preserve the natural resources. Alternatively, you can just find the perfect beach spot under a palm tree and spend the afternoon with a cocktail in hand.

Get prepped for a little bit of travel this morning as you make your way to Siquijor (known as ‘the island of fire’ due to the swarms of fireflies that nestle in the molave trees). You’ll first head back to Bohol, where you’ll take the ferry to the island – home to many scenic waterfalls, caves, gorgeous beaches and bars. When you arrive, your afternoon is wide open to explore. If you need help planning activities, just ask your leader.