9-Day Ultimate Luxury Escapes Route in Philippines
The Philippines offers an unparalleled luxury experience for those looking to escape the ordinary. This 9-day route focuses on the 'Classic Route' of Palawan while integrating the trendy, upscale vibes of Siargao, ensuring you see the country's most iconic landscapes through a lens of exclusivity and comfort.
From private helicopter transfers and five-star heritage dining in the capital to secluded overwater villas in the world's most beautiful lagoons, this itinerary is designed for the discerning traveler who values time, privacy, and impeccable service.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Manila, Philippines - Colonial Heritage & Fine Dining
Arrival at Manila & Luxury Transfer
Arrive at Ninoy Aquino International Airport and take a private luxury chauffeur to the historic Raffles Makati. Start your journey with a signature welcome drink at the legendary Long Bar.
Lunch at Blackbird Makati
Dine at the most prestigious restaurant in the city, located in the historic Nielsen Tower. This former aviation terminal offers world-class fusion cuisine in an elegant Art Deco setting.
Private Intramuros Sunset Tour
Explore the 'Walled City' of Intramuros in a traditional horse-drawn carriage or a premium e-trike. Visit Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church with a private historian guide.
Degustation Dinner at Antonio's
Experience one of Asia's 50 Best Restaurants. While the flagship is in Tagaytay, their Manila pop-ups or a private car to the main estate provides an unforgettable fine-dining experience.
Day 2: Manila to El Nido, Philippines - The Gateway to Paradise
Private Flight to El Nido
Skip the commercial queues at NAIA and take a premium AirSwift flight from the private Lio Terminal directly to El Nido, Palawan.
Check-in at Pangulasian Island
Board a private speedboat to El Nido Resorts' Pangulasian Island, also known as the 'Island of the Sun.' This eco-luxury resort offers unmatched views of the Bacuit Bay.
Nature Walk & Sunset Canopy Tour
Hike the resort’s private trail for a panoramic 360-degree view of the surrounding islands before enjoying a private beach cocktail hour.
Beachfront Seafood Grill
Enjoy a private candlelit dinner on the sand featuring freshly caught Palawan lobster and premium wines curated by the resort's sommelier.
Day 3: El Nido, Philippines - Private Lagoon Expedition
Exclusive Speedboat Charter
Avoid the crowds by chartering a private speedboat to the Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon. Enter these turquoise waters early in the morning for ultimate serenity.
Gourmet Picnic at Entalula Island
The resort team sets up a private white-linen lunch on a secluded beach, away from other tour groups, featuring grilled meats and tropical fruits.
Snorkeling at Shimizu Island
Explore the vibrant coral gardens and underwater limestone formations of Shimizu Island with a private dive master.
Sunset Cruise & Cocktails
Sail around Bacuit Bay on a luxury catamaran as the sun sets behind the towering karst cliffs, served with premium champagne.
Day 4: El Nido, Philippines - Hidden Beaches & Wellness
Visit to Snake Island
Walk across the natural sandbar that connects two islands. Your private guide will ensure you arrive when the tide is perfect for photography.
Hidden Beach Exploration
Swim through a small opening in the limestone to discover a secret beach tucked away from the open sea, often cited as one of the best in the world.
Traditional Hilot Spa Treatment
Indulge in a signature Filipino Hilot massage at the resort's world-class spa using locally sourced virgin coconut oil.
Stars & Spirits Experience
The resort provides a telescope and a private astronomer for a night of stargazing on the beach, accompanied by premium Filipino rums.
Day 5: El Nido to Siargao, Philippines - Island Hopping Transition
Transfer to Lio Airport
Bid farewell to El Nido and take a private boat back to the mainland for your flight to the surfing capital of the Philippines.
Flight to Siargao (Cloud 9)
Take a direct flight (if available) or a quick connection through Cebu to reach Sayak Airport in Siargao.
Check-in at Nay Palad Hideaway
Arrival at the ultimate luxury retreat in Siargao. Nay Palad offers an 'all-inclusive' barefoot luxury experience tailored to your every whim.
Barefoot Luxury Dinner
Dine at the resort's open-air pavilion, where the chef prepares a bespoke menu based on your personal preferences and the catch of the day.
Day 6: Siargao, Philippines - Surfing & Coastal Luxury
Private Surf Lesson at Cloud 9
Even for beginners, a private session with a pro at the iconic Cloud 9 boardwalk is a must. Luxury resorts provide private instructors and premium boards.
Brunch at Shaka Cafes
Enjoy a high-end, healthy smoothie bowl and specialty coffee at this famous Siargao institution overlooking the surf.
Magpupungko Rock Pools Private Tour
Travel by private SUV to the rock pools. Your guide will time it perfectly with the low tide for a private swimming experience in the natural emerald pools.
Fine Dining at Wild Restaurant
Experience modern cuisine using Siargao’s local ingredients in an upscale, tropical garden setting.
Day 7: Siargao, Philippines - Sugba Lagoon & Sohoton Cove
Private Yacht to Sugba Lagoon
Charter a private yacht to navigate the mangroves of Del Carmen to reach the stunning turquoise waters of Sugba Lagoon.
Lunch on the Water
A gourmet seafood bento is served on your private boat while floating in the middle of the lagoon, away from the public pontoon.
Sohoton Cove Jellyfish Sanctuary
Take a smaller boat into the Sohoton Cove to swim with non-stinging jellyfish and explore the crystal caves.
Outdoor Cinema Night
Enjoy a private movie screening under the stars at your resort, complete with gourmet popcorn and cocktails.
Day 8: Siargao to Bohol, Philippines - Chocolate Hills Adventure
Morning Flight to Cebu
Take a short flight to Cebu and then a premium business-class 'OceanJet' ferry or a private helicopter to the island of Bohol.
Check-in at Amorita Resort
Retreat to your private pool villa at Amorita, perched on a cliff overlooking the pristine Alona Beach on Panglao Island.
Private Tarsier Encounter
Visit the Tarsier Sanctuary with a private guide to see the world's smallest primates in a quiet, respectful environment.
Dinner at Saffron
Savor authentic Boholano flavors reinterpreted with modern culinary techniques at Amorita's signature restaurant.
Day 9: Bohol, Philippines - Chocolate Hills & Departure
Exclusive Chocolate Hills Viewpoint
Visit the 1,268 cone-shaped hills. Your private tour includes access to a less-crowded viewing deck for the perfect photo opportunity.
Private Loboc River Cruise
Skip the public boats and enjoy a private lunch cruise down the Loboc River, complete with a personal musician and chef.
Baclayon Church Visit
Visit one of the oldest stone churches in the Philippines, built using coral stones and egg whites, with a private guide explaining its colonial history.
Transfer to Panglao Airport
Take a final private transfer to the Bohol-Panglao International Airport for your flight back to Manila or your next destination.
Best Time to Visit Philippines
The best time to visit the Philippines is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to May. For the luxury traveler, March and April offer the calmest seas and clearest skies, perfect for island hopping and private cruises. Avoid the typhoon season from July to October, as inter-island flights and boat transfers are frequently canceled during this period.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP). While high-end resorts and restaurants in Manila, El Nido, and Siargao accept all major international credit cards, it is essential to carry cash (Pesos) for small tips, local markets, and remote island activities. Tipping is customary but not mandatory; 10% is appreciated for exceptional service in luxury establishments.
Getting Around Philippines
Intercity travel in the Philippines is best handled via domestic flights. For this luxury itinerary, using premium carriers like AirSwift for El Nido and Philippine Airlines for Siargao is highly recommended to avoid the delays of budget airlines. Once on the islands, private van transfers and chartered speedboats are the standard for premium travelers, providing comfort and flexibility that public transport cannot match.
