7-Day Boracay & Cebu Beaches & Highlands Philippines Tour Package

A 7-day adventure through the Philippines’ most iconic beaches and lively cities, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of what makes the country special. With visits to bustling Manila, cultural Cebu, and the picture-perfect sands of Boracay, it promises a mix of city life, island relaxation, and scenic exploration. The itinerary is thoughtfully arranged, including flights, transfers, hotel stays, and activities, making it as convenient as it is exciting.

What we really love about this experience is how smoothly everything is organized—no stress about logistics, just the chance to soak in the sights. The inclusion of island hopping tours in both Cebu and Boracay means you’ll get close-up looks at the marine life and secluded beaches that are often the highlight for travelers.

A possible drawback to keep in mind is that this tour is quite packed, with little downtime for those who prefer more relaxed, unstructured days. Also, some activities like snorkeling and entrance fees are not included, so budget considerations are worth noting.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive taste of the Philippines in a manageable time frame—balancing cultural sights, adventure, and relaxation. If you’re after an all-in-one experience that covers the essentials of island life, city bustle, and scenic beauty, this package is worth exploring.

Key Points

Convenient all-in-one package: Flights, hotels, transfers, and activities are included, making logistics hassle-free.
Diverse experiences: From Manila’s historic sites and Cebu’s cultural heritage to Boracay’s beaches and island hopping, every day offers something new.
Time-efficient travel: With flights and transfers arranged, you maximize your time on the ground—less waiting, more exploring.
Authentic island adventures: The island hopping tours give a genuine feel for the Philippines’ marine beauty and secluded spots.
Comfortable accommodations: Strategically located hotels with breakfast included ensure rest and convenience.
Potential extra costs: Activities like snorkeling, entrance fees, and meals outside the itinerary are additional, so budget accordingly.

Exploring the 7-Day Philippines Tour: A Detailed Look

Day 1: Manila – The Bustling Capital

Starting in Manila, the tour kicks off with a private transfer from the airport to your hotel. This first taste of the Philippines sets the tone—expect to feel the city’s lively energy immediately. You’re given the option of a guided tour of Intramuros, with its Spanish-era architecture, or a culinary upgrade to explore Manila’s vibrant Chinatown, Binondo.
This flexibility lets you choose between culture or a relaxed start. Many reviews highlight how the guided Intramuros tour offers a fascinating glimpse into Manila’s colonial past, with guides sharing stories that bring history to life.

Tip: If you’re short on time or prefer to rest, you can simply enjoy your hotel’s amenities or sample Filipino dishes nearby. The hotel location seems ideal, close enough to key attractions yet comfortable enough for some downtime.

Day 2: Cebu – The Heart of the Philippines

A short 90-minute flight whisks you from Manila to Cebu. Here, the focus shifts to exploring Cebu City and its surroundings. The hotel’s location near major attractions makes it easy for spontaneous adventures or relaxing evenings.

If you opt for an additional city tour, you’ll get a chance to see the city’s vibrant street scenes and historic landmarks, which some travelers find a great way to understand Cebu’s cultural fabric. The flight itself is straightforward, and most reviews mention how well-organized the transfers are, making this transition smooth.

Day 3: Island Hopping at Gilutongan Island

The highlight here is the Mactan Island hopping tour, where you’ll visit smaller islets like Gilutongan. Expect pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lively marine life—perfect for snorkeling or just relaxing on the sand.

Travelers often mention how close this is to Cebu City, making it a convenient escape from urban bustle. The boat ride, about 10 hours in total, includes some fantastic photo opportunities and chances to discover untouched beaches. The inclusion of snorkeling suggests good visibility and colorful reefs, although specific fees like PHP 125 for snorkeling are extra.

Many reviews note how vibrant the marine ecosystem is, and the guides are often praised for their friendliness and knowledge. Some guests mention the water being cold early in the morning but refreshing overall.

Day 4: Transition to Boracay – The Iconic Island

Flying from Cebu to Caticlan is a quick transfer, but it marks a significant shift from city and island-hopping to relaxing beach paradise. The transfer from Caticlan Airport to your hotel on Boracay is seamless, with most guests appreciating the efficiency.

Boracay’s reputation for soft white sand and lively atmosphere is well-earned, and the hotel options are centrally located, offering easy access to White Beach and other attractions. The day is largely for settling in and getting a feel for the island’s vibrant vibe.

Day 5: Puka Shell Beach and Island Hopping

This day is dedicated to exploring some of Boracay’s lesser-known spots beyond the famous White Beach. The shared island hopping tour includes visits to secluded coves and beaches, including the famous Puka Shell Beach.

Many guests rave about the beautiful shells and the chance to swim in clear waters away from crowds. The Barbecue buffet lunch adds a satisfying local flavor to the day, and the Kawa hot tub offers a relaxing experience after a day of exploration.

Some reviewers mention that this tour suits travelers who want to escape the busy beaches and find calmer, pristine spots, although note that it’s a shared tour with other guests.

Day 6: Return to Manila – City Lights again

After a relaxed morning on Boracay, your transfer takes you back to Caticlan for the flight to Manila. Once there, most guests choose to unwind or explore Manila’s shops and nightlife. The hotel’s central location is noted as convenient for evening strolls or dining.

Some mention how nice it is to have the flexibility to choose additional activities or just enjoy the hotel amenities before heading home. The transfer arrangements are praised for their punctuality and ease.

Day 7: Final Day and Departure

Your last morning involves a hearty breakfast and some souvenir shopping—an ideal way to cap off the trip. The driver then takes you to the airport, leaving with plenty of memories from an action-packed week.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Well-Organized Logistics: From flights to transfers, every detail is handled, reducing stress and maximizing your time on the islands. Travelers consistently mention how smoothly the transitions are, especially when changing locations.

Variety of Experiences: Combining city tours, island hopping, and beach relaxation offers balance—perfect if you want to see a lot but still unwind. The island hopping tours are especially praised for their stunning views and marine life encounters, making them true highlights.

Comfortable Accommodation: Hotels are strategically located near key attractions, providing both comfort and convenience. Breakfast is included, giving you a good start each day.

Authentic Activities: The tours go beyond the usual, with visits to secluded beaches and opportunities to experience local flavors during the barbecue lunch. The hot kawa tub on Boracay adds a touch of uniqueness, as noted in some reviews.

Flexibility and Customization: While the itinerary is packed, there’s flexibility—guests can opt for city tours or explore on their own. Upgrades are available, such as food tours or city sightseeing, allowing some personalization.

Cost-Effectiveness: For $1,689 per person, the package covers flights, hotels, most tours, and transfers—an impressive value considering the inclusions. Extra costs like snorkeling and entrance fees are minimal but worth budgeting for ahead of time.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This 7-day Philippines package is ideal for travelers seeking a balanced mix of urban exploration, island adventures, and beach relaxation. It’s perfect for those who want everything organized for them, minimizing planning stress. If you love discovering new places with comfortable accommodations and guided tours, this offers excellent value.

However, if you prefer more free days for spontaneous adventures or extended downtime, some might find the schedule a bit busy. Also, travelers on a stricter budget should account for optional extras like snorkeling fees and entrance charges.

Overall, it’s a fantastic choice for first-time visitors eager to experience the Philippines’ highlights in a manageable, well-organized trip, with enough variety to suit diverse tastes.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The $1,689 covers all domestic flights with baggage allowance, accommodations in Manila, Cebu, and Boracay, all transfers, two island hopping tours, and six breakfasts plus two lunches.

Are there any extra costs I should be aware of?
Yes, activities like snorkeling and entrance fees for certain attractions (e.g., PHP 125 for snorkeling, PHP 313 for Magic Island, and PHP 375 for Crystal Cove) are additional. Meals not included in the itinerary are also extra.

How long are the flights between destinations?
The flight from Manila to Cebu takes about 1.5 hours, and the Cebu to Caticlan flight is similarly quick. The return flight from Caticlan to Manila also takes roughly an hour.

Is this tour suitable for all ages and fitness levels?
Generally, yes. The activities involve some walking, boat rides, and swimming, but nothing overly strenuous. Travelers should be comfortable with basic physical activity and water-based activities.

Can I customize the experience?
While the itinerary is quite fixed, there are options to upgrade or select additional tours, such as city sightseeing or food tours, depending on your preferences.

What should I pack?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, comfortable walking shoes, and a light jacket for cooler evenings. Don’t forget your camera to capture those stunning vistas!

To sum it up, this 7-day Philippines tour offers a fantastic balance of cultural discovery, island hopping, and beach leisure, all packed into a well-organized package. Whether you’re looking for a quick but comprehensive escape or a stepping stone to explore more, it delivers excellent value and authentic experiences. Perfect for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike, it’s a solid way to get a real taste of the Philippines’ natural beauty and vibrant culture.