Philippines route: Vigan to Siargao, 18 stops across 7,305
Explore the Philippines' top 10 destinations across 7,305.5 km, from colonial Vigan in northern Luzon to the diving paradise of Palawan. The route connects iconic spots including Boracay Island, Cebu's whale sharks in Oslob, the Chocolate Hills of Bohol, and the UNESCO-listed Ifugao rice terraces, showcasing beaches, cultural sites, and world-class dive locations.
- Mode
- Places
- Start
- Vigan, northern Luzon
- End
- Manila
- Stops
- 18
- Video author
- travmap
- Updated
Stops on this route
- Vigan, northern Luzon — Spanish colonial town with cobblestone streets and preserved 16th-century architecture showcasing Philippines' heritage.
- Bohol and Chocolate Hills — Geological formation of 1,268 cone-shaped hills turning brown during dry season, creating distinctive landscape.
- Cebu Island — Central Philippine hub blending urban development with beaches, diving sites, and historical Magellan's Cross.
- Oslob whale sharks — Seasonal gathering of gentle whale sharks in shallow waters, allowing safe interaction with world's largest fish.
- Tagaytay and Taal Lake — Mountain ridge offering panoramic views of Taal volcano and crater lake, popular day-trip destination.
- Cebu City — Capital of Cebu province and oldest city in the Philippines with the nation's second international airport
- Malapascua Island diving — Small island renowned for thresher shark encounters and vibrant coral reefs attracting experienced divers.
- Siargao Island — Teardrop-shaped island famed as the surfing capital of the Philippines, home to Cloud Nine surf spot
- Cloud Nine surf spot — Premier reef break producing consistent barrel waves, hosting international surfing competitions yearly.
- Ifugao rice terraces, Luzon — UNESCO-listed 2,000-year-old mountain terraces carved by Ifugao people, demonstrating sustainable agricultural engineering.
- Boracay Island — One of the most popular islands in the Philippines known for its idyllic white sandy beach
- Palawan province — Biodiverse island region featuring limestone cliffs, underground rivers, and pristine beaches including El Nido.
- Puerto Princesa — Provincial capital of Palawan close to large karst formations with an underground river
- Coron diving — WWII Japanese shipwreck sites and limestone lagoons with crystal-clear waters ideal for wreck and reef diving.
- Bohol Island — Island home to tarsiers and known for the Chocolate Hills geologic formation
- Banaue — Picturesque Ifugao rice terraces created over 2000 years by the Ifugao ethnic people, following Cordillera mountain contours
- El Nido — Popular destination in Palawan sandwiched between towering limestone karst cliffs and a beautiful bay
- Manila — Capital city set on Manila Bay with Pasig River running through it
Useful for your trip
- Transport
- Malapascua Island requires a 4-hour drive to Maya port town, then boat access. Plan travel time accordingly.
- Transport
- Siargao Island has no airport; access is tricky, making it more remote but rewarding when you arrive.
- Timing
- Boracay Island has daily visitor limits after reopening and 6-month rehabilitation closure. Book ahead to ensure entry.
- Tip
- Cebu City is the Philippines' oldest city with the nation's second international airport, making it a hub for island access.
- Transport
- Tagaytay is accessible from Manila and offers respite from the city's heat and humidity due to its cool mountain climate.
- Tip
- Oslob whale sharks grow up to 12 meters long; swimming with them is possible but plan multiple days in town for hikes and cycle rides.
- Tip
- Ifugao rice terraces around Banaue were created 2000 years ago by the Ifugao ethnic people without modern tools and remain in use today.
- Tip
- Siargao has 15 known surfing spots including Cloud Nine; surf schools and rental shops are available for lessons and equipment.
- Tip
- Coron diving site features Japanese shipwrecks from World War II, making it one of the world's best diving destinations.
- Tip
- Palawan's Puerto Princesa is close to large karst formations with an underground river and serves as provincial capital.
- Transport
- Manila airport serves as main international gateway; the city has Pasig River running through it with towering skyscrapers and traffic.
Video on this route
10 Best Places to Visit in the Philippines - Travel Video