Philippines: See & Experience it ALL in 14 Days, 1st Class Custom Tours

Planning a trip to the Philippines can feel overwhelming—so many islands, activities, and sights to choose from. That’s where a well-organized, all-encompassing tour like this 14-day adventure from CharlieTheTraveler comes into its own. It promises to cover the highlights of the Philippines with a packed itinerary that balances iconic attractions, adrenaline-pumping adventures, and culture—all delivered in first-class style.

We love that this tour offers an impressive variety of experiences—from swimming with whale sharks to exploring ancient caves—delivered with expert guides and private transportation. The fact that it’s designed to feel almost entirely private, with only a few activities shared among travelers, makes it feel personalized rather than touristy.

That said, the sheer volume of activities might be a challenge for some—those who prefer a slower, more relaxed pace might find this itinerary pretty intense. However, if you’re an active traveler craving maximum variety and value for money, this tour could be your perfect match. It suits travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free itinerary that hits all the must-see sights with minimal planning on their part.

Key Points

• Highly packed itinerary with a mix of adventure, nature, and culture
• Private transportation and expert guides ensure smooth transitions and local insights
• Good value considering the included entry fees, activities, and lodging
• Long days of activity, ideal for travelers eager for a full experience but possibly tiring for some
• Almost all activities are inclusive, with a few private options available
• Authentic experiences like firefly boat rides and whale shark swimming are highlights

An Honest Look at the 14-Day Philippines Tour

This tour from CharlieTheTraveler is designed for travelers who want to see as much of the Philippines as possible, in a relatively short period of time. The price tag of $4,126.67 per person might seem steep at first glance, but considering the number of destinations, activities, and all the included logistics, it provides excellent value—especially since it’s marketed as “first class.” The accommodations, private transportation, guided tours, and most meals are all covered, making it a stress-free, luxury experience.

First Impressions: An Action-Packed Journey

What immediately stands out is the diversity of experiences. From swimming with gentle sea turtles on Apo Island to hiking waterfalls in Aguinid, and experiencing the lively nightlife of Boracay, this tour is not just a sightseeing trip but a series of immersive adventures. The tour guides, praised for their knowledge and professionalism, seem to elevate the experience—one review even mentions that CharlieTheTraveler’s team “made it possible to relax” despite the busy schedule.

Transportation and Group Size

Travel is primarily via private, air-conditioned vehicle, which makes long transfers—like from Bohol to Dumaguete or Cebu to Boracay—comfortable rather than draining. The group is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience and personalized attention. This smaller group size means you’re less likely to feel lost in a crowd and more likely to forge connections with fellow travelers.

The Itinerary Breakdown: Why It Works

The itinerary is a carefully balanced mix of must-see sights and adventurous activities. Here’s a detailed look:

Days 1-2: Bohol’s Natural Wonders and Cultural Treasures

Starting in Panglao, the iconic Alona Beach provides a relaxing intro with its white sands and palm-lined scenery. The evening firefly cruise on the Abatan River is a magical way to kick off the adventure, with one reviewer describing it as “probably the most unique thing I’ve ever seen.” During the day, the highlights include the Chocolate Hills, with their surreal, mound-shaped formations that turn chocolate brown in the dry season, and the Tarsier Sanctuary, where you find the world’s smallest primates, endearing for their large eyes and nervous energy.

The Loboc River cruise adds a peaceful contrast, with a delicious included lunch and views of lush jungle scenery. The combination of cultural sites like Baclayon Church adds depth for history buffs.

Days 3-5: Dumaguete and Apo Island’s Marine Life

Moving to Dumaguete, the tour showcases natural hotspots like Pulangbato Falls and Red Rock Hot Spring, offering a mix of scenic beauty and relaxation. The trip to Apo Island is a highlight, especially for snorkelers and sea lovers. The chance to swim alongside sea turtles and see vibrant coral reefs is one of the most praised activities, with reviewers calling the experience “the highlight of the trip” and “almost surreal.”

The day trip to Oslob for whale shark swimming is an experience many travelers consider unforgettable. One reviewer appreciated having “big-eyed jacks, bump-head parrotfish, and sea snakes” in the reefs, but most come for the chance to get close to the gentle giants of the sea—whale sharks—a rare and awe-inspiring encounter.

Days 6-7: Boracay’s Beaches and Adventure

Transitioning from Dumaguete, the tour takes you to Boracay, one of the world’s most famous beaches. Arrival at White Beach, along with visits to Bulabog, Puka, and Ilig Iligan beaches, sets the stage for a relaxing yet energetic stay. Climbing Mount Luho offers panoramic views, and the evening walk along the coast provides stunning sunset vistas—a perfect moment for photos.

The free day in Boracay is designed for pure leisure or optional activities like windsurfing, kite-boarding, and jet-skiing. The recommendations favor active pursuits over sightseeing tours, catering to those wanting to make the most of the island’s water sports.

Days 8-11: El Nido’s Dramatic Scenery and Marine Marvels

Flying to El Nido, the tour reveals what many travelers say is some of the most beautiful scenery in the Philippines. The Las Cabanas Beach sunset sets the tone for what becomes a series of stunning daytrip excursions.

• Day 9 covers Snake Island, Papaya Beach, and Cudugnon Cave, with snorkeling and lunch included. Reviewers love how these trips showcase crystal-clear waters and secluded beaches.
• Day 10 takes you to Helicopter Island, Matinloc Shrine, and Star Beach—each with its own charm and photo-worthy sights.
• Day 11 explores the lagoons, Secret Lagoon, and Shimizu Island, with kayaking and snorkeling options, giving a well-rounded experience of Bacuit Bay’s marine richness.

Days 12-13: Coron’s Underwater and Mountain Adventures

Crossing to Coron, the emphasis shifts to diving and exploring WWII relics. The visit to Lake Kayangan and the Twin Lagoon provides postcard-perfect views, and the Skeleton Wreck—a Japanese WWII ship—offers world-class snorkeling and diving. Reviewers often highlight the spectacular coral reefs and the chance to see marine life like manta rays and dugongs.

The ascent of Mount Tapyas for sunset views adds a scenic finish to the day. The boat tours covering Siete Pecados, CYC Beach, and the Coral Garden round out an ocean lover’s dream.

Day 14: Departure from Coron

The final day involves a smooth transfer back to the airport for your flight home. The schedule ensures you’re able to catch a flight no earlier than 1 pm from Manila, giving you a relaxed morning without rushing.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The value of this tour lies in its inclusions: all entry fees, private transportation, professional guides, and most meals. Travelers consistently mention how smooth and well-organized the logistics are—making the experience more about enjoying the sights than stressing over arrangements.

The expert guides seem to be a highlight, with reviews praising their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make the experience special. This personal touch can turn a busy schedule into a memorable journey, full of interesting facts and local insights.

Authentic experiences like firefly boat cruises and swimming with whale sharks aren’t just add-ons—they’re core parts of the adventure, making this tour more than just sightseeing. Many travelers mention these moments as the highlights of their trip, with one reviewer describing the firefly tour as “probably the most unique thing I’ve ever seen.”

The Price and Overall Value

While $4,126.67 per person sounds steep, it’s important to consider what’s included. You gain 14 days of guided travel, all entry fees, private transport, accommodation for at least one night, and most meals. For a comprehensive tour packed with activities across multiple islands, this is quite competitive. Plus, booking in advance (9 days on average) makes planning simpler, especially for international travelers.

Considerations for Travelers

This tour isn’t for someone looking for a slow, relaxed vacation. The days are long, often with activities from morning until late afternoon. If you prefer a leisurely pace, you might find this schedule a bit demanding. Also, some activities—like canyoning at Kawasan Falls—are not suitable for children under specific ages, so families with young kids should check the restrictions.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This journey is ideal for adventure seekers and active travelers who want to see the Philippines with minimal fuss. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a mix of nature, culture, and adrenaline, and appreciate the comfort of private transport and guided tours. It’s also suited for those who value authentic experiences, like firefly cruises and marine encounters, as core elements of their trip.

Travelers who are okay with long days of activity and are looking for value-packed, all-inclusive travel will find this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s particularly appealing for first-time visitors wanting to get a comprehensive taste of the Philippines without the hassle of planning each detail.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most activities are accessible for travelers of most ages, but canyoning at Kawasan Falls is not suitable for children under 6, and swimming with whale sharks has age restrictions for kids under 7.

Are meals included?
Most meals are included, with at least seven lunches covered. Other meals like dinners are not specified but can be arranged locally.

What about transportation?
All transportation is private, air-conditioned, and arranged for your convenience, making long transfers comfortable and stress-free.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can activities be customized?
The tour is primarily set, but private options are available for some activities, like waterfalls near Dumaguete and the Coron island tour.

What is the cancellation policy?
Cancelling 6 days or more before the start gets you a full refund. Less than that, the refund decreases or is forfeited.

Is there a guide for all activities?
Yes, experienced guides are included to enhance your understanding and safety during activities.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 9 days in advance, but early booking is recommended given the popularity.

Final Thoughts

This 14-day Philippines tour by CharlieTheTraveler offers an impressive blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery. Its well-organized itinerary ensures you won’t miss the highlights of Bohol, Dumaguete, Boracay, El Nido, and Coron, all delivered with first-class service.

It’s perfect for energetic travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free experience packed with memorable moments—from swimming alongside sea turtles to marveling at limestone cliffs. While demanding, it provides notable value for money, considering the quality of guides, inclusions, and authentic activities.

If you’re after a full-on Philippine adventure that combines comfort, variety, and genuine local encounters, this tour could be your best choice. Just be ready for the long days and a whirlwind of unforgettable sights.

To sum it up, this tour is a fantastic option for those eager to explore the Philippines thoroughly and comfortably. It offers a well-curated mix of natural wonders, adrenaline rushes, and cultural gems, perfect for adventure lovers and experience-hungry travelers alike. Whether you’re celebrating a special trip or just want to make the most of your time in this beautiful country, it delivers on all fronts—value, excitement, and unforgettable memories.