Tours and experiences available in The Philippines

Looking for your own private space and ensuite while volunteering in the Philippines? Upgrade to IVHQ’s affordable accommodation option and enjoy a self-contained cabin during your volunteer program.

Perfect for couples, retirees, or volunteers seeking extra comfort, this cabin is located right on the beach, offering a peaceful and private retreat.

Designed for up to two people, the cabin includes a king-size bed, air conditioning, a fan, and a private bathroom for your convenience and comfort.

If you're booking with another person, only one person needs to purchase the upgrade. Please let your Program Manager know who the other volunteer is who will be sharing the cabin with you.

This upgrade provides the perfect balance of comfort and privacy, allowing you to fully relax and recharge after a fulfilling day of volunteering.

***Must Read***
The private cabin upgrade is located offsite and is approximately a 5 minute drive from the main accommodation. You’ll be picked up and dropped off daily for all meals as these are served at the main accommodation.

Arriving early or departing a few days after your program finished? IVHQ makes it easy to be flexible with your arrival and departure dates and offers extra nights of accommodation that you can pre-arrange before you depart. 

You will be accommodated in the same volunteer house that you will be staying during your time on the program so you can settle right in with no need to be moving around. Please note that maximum you can book for is one day before or after.

Want your own private room with a shared bathroom while volunteering in the Philippines? Enjoy your own private space in comfort and style during your volunteer program, with IVHQ’s affordable accommodation upgrade.

For couples, families, retirees or volunteers wanting more comfort, we would recommend a private room at the volunteer accommodation. Please note that the private room is in a separate small building but is located on the same compound as the main volunteer house.

These private rooms are designed for up up to four people and include a single bed for each volunteer, private bathroom with cold water and air conditioning.

If booking with another person, only one person needs to buy this upgrade and please contact your Program Manager to inform who the other volunteer is that will be using this upgrade.

Please note that no refunds will be issued if you are the only participant booked for this upgrade.

Culture Week Orientation: The Culture Week is very popular among IVHQ volunteers. We recommend all volunteers take advantage of this week to gain a deeper understanding of the Filipino culture, a true appreciation of life in the Philippines and bond with fellow volunteers while also taking a cooking class, visiting a farm and touring local attractions. It’s also a great way to help settle the culture shock you can face when arriving in the Philippines.

Culture Week Schedule:

Monday - Begin with an overview of the Philippines program, meet the local team, review general guidelines, and join a session on local culture and language. You’ll explore the community projects, take a walking tour of the area, and sort out your SIM card. In the afternoon, get involved with a hands-on activity at Nelson’s Farm, then end the day with a lively cultural night featuring music and interactive activities.

Tuesday - In the morning you will have the chance to join a Filipino cooking class where you will prepare three delicious meals. After lunch, you will take part in a Filipino language lesson to help communicate better with the locals who cannot speak or understand English.

 
Wednesday - You will be able to experience and see one of the beautiful waterfalls in Palawan, Estrella Falls. You will enjoy a picnic while you are there. After that you will visit a local market located in Narra town.

 
Thursday - You will take part in a creative workshop making hand fans and weaving nipa huts. Afterward, join a pottery class to craft your own keepsakes. Finish the evening with a lively karaoke night, singing and having fun with new friends.

 
Friday - After breakfast, volunteers will meet about the upcoming placements and receive the placement specific introduction. In the afternoon, volunteers will be working at their placements.

This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on the needs of the project, local weather conditions and unforeseen circumstances

This week offers an unforgettable week of island hopping, snorkeling, diving, beach relaxation, and cultural immersion. Explore stunning lagoons, hidden beaches, and rich marine life while enjoying outdoor activities and learning about the local way of life. Interact with friendly residents, visit local markets, and experience the culture and traditions that make El Nido a paradise beyond its breathtaking landscapes.

Please note that this excursion is only available to start on the first Monday of each month.

Itinerary:

Sunday - arrival

Arrive in Cebu on Day 1, where we’ll pick you up from the airport and take you to your accommodation. You’ll have the rest of the day to explore Cebu City or chill out and recharge for what’s coming. In the evening, meet your new travel crew for a fun welcome meal at one of our favourite local spots – the perfect way to kick off your Philippines East group tour adventure.

Day 2 - Cebu, Moalboal Bound: Snorkel amongst thousands of sardines

Moalboal Bound! On the way, you will take a scenic drive through Cebu’s countryside. Your first stop will be at the beautiful Simala Shrine to experience Filipino culture and explore the stunning architecture and religious significance of the shrine.

Afterwards, upon arriving in Moalboal, you will check into your beachfront accommodation. You will have some free time to grab lunch and then you will head to the famous natural phenomenon – the Sardine Run for snorkelling. Get ready to snorkel amongst thousands of sardines, and if you are lucky, you may even spot a turtle or two!

Day 3 - Cebu: Osmena Peak Sunrise & Chasing waterfalls

Today you will have an early start as you will head to Osmena Peak to catch the sunrise. It’s a short hike to the top where you can settle in and wait for the sunrise while enjoying the unique jagged hills and surrounding landscape.

Once the sun is up, you’ll head down to a Filipino breakfast provided by a local restaurant. This purpose-driven business supports the local community by providing funds for locals to access college. After a tasty breakfast, you will make your way to a tropical swimming hole where you will spend the next few hours swimming and enjoying the tropical swimming hole before heading back to Moalboal.

The rest of the day is free for you to relax or explore the area further.

Day 4 - To Bohol

After breakfast, you will start your journey to Bohol. You will take the scenic route back to Cebu City and then take a ferry to Bohol, where you can relax and enjoy the sea views. In the afternoon, you will arrive at our accommodation. You can unwind by the pool or have a cocktail at Alona Beach, known for its stunning sunsets.

Day 5 - Countryside Bohol: Chocolate Hills, Tarsiers & Kayaks

Get ready to start your journey across Bohol’s breathtaking countryside. Your first stop is at the iconic Chocolate Hills, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the area. Then, continue your journey through the Mahogany Cultivated Forest, a serene and picturesque road lined with towering mahogany trees.

Soon after, you will reach the Tarsier Sanctuary, where you will be able to observe these tiny primates in their natural habitat. Enjoy lunch at an open-air restaurant overlooking the Loboc River. After lunch, get ready to make a splash and connect with nature by stand-up paddle boarding or kayaking down the Loboc River. Here, you will be surrounded by lush greenery, tropical vegetation, and riverbanks rich with coconut palms.

Finish the day with a dessert-making workshop where you will learn how to make delicious traditional Filipino desserts.

Day 6 - Bohol: School Visit and Gak-Ang Island Sunset Tour

Today, you will visit a nearby daycare to spend time interacting with the local kids of the Badjao Community. You will have the unique opportunity to engage in conversations, learn about their daily activities and education. In the afternoon, you will go on a sunset tour around some of the most spectacular tropical waters. You will stop off to snorkel amongst the coral reefs and marine life, as Bohol is known for its vibrant underwater world. In the late afternoon, you will arrive at Gak-Ang Island, a magical white sandbar, in time for the sunset, where you can watch the sun dip below the horizon.

In the evening, you will enjoy a traditional Filipino ‘boodle fight’ for dinner, a communal meal with various Filipino dishes served on banana leaves. Have a few cocktails and enjoy one of those ‘life is good’ moments.

Day 7 - To Boracay: Explore the Island & Sunset Cruise

Today, you will embark on an adventure to Boracay, renowned for its pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Your journey begins with a flight to Caticlan Airport, followed by a short trike ride to the ferry terminal, and then a brief 10-minute public ferry ride to Boracay. A car will pick you up and take you to your accommodation where you will be staying for the next three nights.

While Boracay is famous for its main beach, it also boasts numerous hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Freshen up and later in the evening, you will regroup for a sunset sailing excursion, promising unforgettable views and cherished moments.

Day 8 - Boracay: Motag Living Museum Cultural Day

After breakfast, you will take a short ferry over to the mainland island of Malay, where you will visit the Motag Living Museum. This is a One Life exclusive and a one-of-a-kind cultural experience that showcases the traditional lifestyles of the locals in Caticlan. Dive deep into what it means to be Filipino and interact with the locals who are proud to show you the real side of rural Filipino life.

You will return to Boracay in the afternoon. Spend the rest of the day on the amazing White Beach, grab an optional massage, or get a kayak and explore the clear waters.

Day 9 - Boracay: Hop On & Off Bus & Massage

Take your time and savour a leisurely morning at your own pace. In the afternoon, you will have the chance to share your adventures and discoveries. Embrace the opportunity to explore the lesser-known beaches in the area with your Hop on and Hop off bus pass. Whether you are drawn to secluded coves, hidden bays, or tranquil shores, there’s something magical waiting to be explored at every turn. Soak in the serenity of the coastline, listen to the gentle lapping of waves, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you.

Later in the day, you will set out to discover some of the island’s hidden treasures. Picture yourself wandering along secluded beaches, discovering tiny islands, meandering through local villages, and soaking in the serene tropical landscapes. Finish the day by unwinding with a free massage.

Day 10 - Departure Day

Sadly, it’s time to bid farewell to this beautiful part of an amazing country. Hopefully, we will meet again, perhaps with new travel companions. After breakfast, the day is yours. 

If you are planning to join this tour before or after your volunteer program, please note that the tour dates may not align exactly with your project start or end date. You may need to arrange and cover the cost of additional accommodation and transport (such as flights, trains, or transfers) to get to your project meeting point or return location. Our team will be happy to advise you on what’s needed, but all extra arrangements are your responsibility to book and pay for.

Touch down in Manila, and we’ve got you covered from the moment you land. You'll be picked up at the airport and takes you through the vibrant streets to your central boutique hostel. Settle into your accommodation and in the evening join the rest of the group for a delicious welcome meal up on the rooftop terrace and enjoy a few drinks overlooking the stunning Manila skyline.

Day 2 - Palawan here we come!

We are heading to Palawan! Start your day with a leisurely breakfast, then take a short flight to Puerto Princesa. You'll have some free time to enjoy a refreshing swim in the pool, a relaxing massage or simply unwind. In the evening, we will dine at a local restaurant in this charming coastal city.

Day 3 - UNESCO Underground River, Port Barton

We have an early start as we head out to the UNESCO Underground River. We explore a portion of the accessible underground river by boat before stopping for lunch. Afterwards, we'll continue on a scenic drive to the remote and stunning Port Barton. Spend the afternoon sipping fresh coconuts on golden sand while listening to some island reggae in the background. Tonight we will sleep in traditional Filipino-style beach bungalows listening to the sound of the ocean.

Day 4 - Private Beach Camp! Snorkelling, Waterfall & School Visit

For the next 2 days we get to experience the local island way of life, with our Islander Experience. After breakfast, we join our local guides on their boat for 2 days of exploring islands and the surrounding areas of Port Barton.

Your first stop will be making a special visit to one of four local schools, where you'll have the chance to interact with the students and see firsthand the impact of your support. We encourage guests to bring school supplies, which can either be pre-brought or purchased the day before in Puerto Princesa. Guests can also make monetary donations that will go towards things like building kitchens, canteens, and sporting equipment. If the school is on holiday or it's a weekend, we'll visit the local day care center instead.

In the evening we get together around the fire at our very own private beach camp. Perfect! Don’t worry about food either as our local guides will have everything covered with feasts of grilled fish, pork, rice, vegetables and fruit. In the evening you will sleep in tents directly on the beach in paradise.

Day 5 - Beach Camp, More Snorkelling, Waterfalls & Fun

Today's day two of your island hopping adventures. You'll continue to enjoy snorkelling around coral reefs & alongside turtles, shower in jungle waterfalls, exploring tiny islands and just taking it all in.

*Please note - activities on day 4 and 5 may alternate depending on each departure.

Day 6 - To El Nido, Paradise

After breakfast, take some time to appreciate your spectacular surroundings before we then hop into a van and head up on our way to El Nido. When we arrive you will see why Palawan was named the most beautiful island in the world. Surrounded by islands and towering cliffs, El Nido is a secret paradise we are lucky enough to share. Once you pick your jaws up off the ground, we will check in to the funkiest hostel in Palawan. This slick hostel looks more like a boutique hotel than a backpackers! Settle in, then head to our favourite beach restaurant in the evening for food and fun with your new family.

Day 7 - El Nido: Filipino Cultural Day

Get ready to immerse yourself in unique Filipino culture! We'll take a short jungle hike to learn about the flora and fauna that grow in the lush rainforest before arriving at our exclusive jungle hut for a fun-filled day. Today's activities range from cooking authentic Filipino food, climbing coconut trees, traditional Filipino stick fighting, coconut shaving, learning Filipino dances and children's games, coconut leaf weaving, and more. Afterwards, you can take the optional zipline and enjoy a relaxing time on the stunning Las Cabanas Beach. It's an exhilarating adventure of flying between two islands over the ocean, followed by a day of relaxation that you're not likely to forget!

Day 8 - El Nido: Island Hopping

This morning we board our boat to take us around all the spectacular, tiny islands in the bay. You will explore the most beautiful islands and the bluest waters you have ever seen. Snorkel with your new friends and feast on the freshly prepared food on board. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Day 9 - El Nido Town, Canopy Walk & Massage

Today we do a short canopy walk up to the famous cliffs overlooking El Nido to get the best view of incredible bay and Cadlao Island. After all that exercise, you’ll need some chill-out time! That’s why we include a traditional Filipino massage near the beach to help ease those muscles. Take your time today to relax and enjoy your surroundings.

Day 10: Depart

Sadly, all good things must come to an end! On the final day of your tour, you will have an included private van transfer back to Puerto Princesa. The van departs from Spin at 7 AM.

If you are planning to join this tour before or after your volunteer program, please note that the tour dates may not align exactly with your project start or end date. You may need to arrange and cover the cost of additional accommodation and transport (such as flights, trains, or transfers) to get to your project meeting point or return location. Our team will be happy to advise you on what’s needed, but all extra arrangements are your responsibility to book and pay for.