When planning to tour the Philippines for the first time, one of the biggest questions you'll have to answer is whether or not you should tour the country on your own or with a group. Both options have their pros and cons, and it ultimately comes down to what you want out of your vacation. If you're comfortable travelling by yourself, then touring the country on your own can allow you maximum flexibility in choosing which destinations to see, how long to stay at each one, and how sustainable each one is. But if being on your own sounds like more stress than fun, then booking a tour might be the better option for you.

8 Tips For Planning The Best Tour Of The Philippines Islands

1) Have an Action Plan

No matter what type of trip you're taking, it's always a good idea to have an action plan. This is especially true when visiting a new country. By doing a little research and planning ahead, you can make the most of your time in the Philippines. Research and write everything down in detail in advance, that way you will be prepared and not spend too much time preparing.

2) Figure Out Your Goals

What kind of trip are you looking for? Are you interested in historical sites, beaches, or outdoor activities? Do you want to relax or be adventurous? Once you know what you want out of your trip, you can start planning accordingly. If you want a relaxing vacation on the beach, then choose from a list of islands with beaches. If you're more interested in active adventures like hiking and biking, then plan your trip around that goal by choosing the best island for those things.

3) Consider Accommodation Types And Cost

When it comes to finding accommodation in the Philippines, there are a few different options to consider. You could stay in a hostel, which is often the cheapest option, or you could rent an apartment or villa. Airbnbs are also becoming increasingly popular in the country. Once you've decided on your accommodation type, it's time to start looking at prices. Hostels can cost as little as $5 USD per night, while apartments and villas can cost anywhere from $30-$100 USD per night. Airbnbs usually fall somewhere in the middle.

4) Choose From a Variety of Tours

There are a variety of tour options available when visiting the Philippines islands. You can choose from group tours, private tours, or even do-it-yourself tours. There is something for everyone. If you want to enjoy your time with others, then a group tour is perfect for you. Group tours can be large and small and range in duration from one day to one week. If you would rather have all the flexibility and control yourself, then take a private tour. If you want to know where to go, what to see, how long it will take and what transportation methods are available then a DIY tour might be best for you.

5) Check Reviews

Before you book anything, whether it's an accommodation or a tour, be sure to check reviews. This will help ensure you have a positive experience and avoid any scams. In addition, make sure the company has a physical address in the Philippines because this is where your money goes if something goes wrong. 

6) Select a Budget Friendly Tour Provider

When it comes to planning a tour of the Philippines islands, be sure to select a budget friendly tour provider. There are many reputable companies that offer all-inclusive packages at an affordable price. These types of tours will include your transportation and accommodation costs so you can focus on what you want to do while in the country.

7) Prepare your Travel Documents

Before anything else, make sure that you have all the required travel documents. These include your passport, visa, tickets, and other necessary papers. An eTravel Card is required for all passengers visiting the Philippines, and applying for a visa can take some time, so it's best to start this process as early as possible. Once you have all your documents in order, start planning your itinerary. It's also a good idea to keep a physical copy of all your documents with you at all times. 

8) Get Familiar with The Culture

Knowing about Filipino culture is helpful for both tourist-to-tourist encounters as well as between locals and tourists. Remember that Filipinos are typically very friendly people but can also become very confrontational when they feel slighted or insulted in some way.