Overview
Known as the Pearl of the Orient, the Philippines is a hidden gem in Southeast Asia, offering a breathtaking blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. With over 7,000 islands scattered across crystal-clear waters, the country presents a dazzling array of photographic opportunities, from ancient rice terraces and cobblestone streets to bustling markets and palm-fringed beaches. Often overlooked by mainstream tourists, the Philippines remains an untouched paradise for photographers seeking authentic and captivating moments.
The archipelago is divided into three main regions: Luzon in the north, the Visayas in the center, and Mindanao in the south. The capital, Manila, is a vibrant city blending colonial history with modern life — a perfect starting point for a photo expedition. With a culture deeply influenced by centuries of Spanish rule and American presence, and a tapestry of indigenous traditions, the Philippines offers an endless stream of stories waiting to be told through your lens.
Above all, it is the Filipino people — their warmth, their smiles, and their openness — that truly make this destination a dream for portrait photographers. Every interaction, every shared moment, becomes a cherished frame in your travelogue. This itinerary is not just a journey through the Philippines — it’s an invitation to see, feel, and capture the soul of a country through your lens.
Itinerary
*Subject to change*
Day 1, Feb 14: Arrival in Manila
Welcome to Manila! Upon arrival, you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to our hotel. At 6:00 pm, we’ll gather for an orientation meeting, setting the stage for our photographic journey. We’ll enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, giving you your first taste of Filipino cuisine. Spend the night Manila.
Day 2, Feb 15: Manila’s Historic Heart
Today, cameras in hand, we set out for a Manila City tour. Some historical landmarks and interesting parts of the city we’ll view include Rizal Park, the country’s premier park and the site of many important events in the country’s history; and Intramuros, the Spanish colonial city. Its historical landmarks include Fort Santiago, the old Spanish military headquarters; San Agustin Church, the oldest stone church in the city which has a museum of religious and secular art; Barrio San Luis, a complex of reconstructed period houses depicting the Filipino lifestyles of the 19th century. The tour also includes Quiapo, a district popular with the locals for its open market and its church which enshrines the black statue of Jesus Christ. Finally, we’ll see the Chinese Cemetery known for its peculiarity of having grandiose mausoleums with a fascinating blend of different religious elements. We’ll spend the night in Manila.
Day 3, Feb 16: Markets, Cemeteries, and Jeepneys
We start the day photographing the vibrant Dangwa flower market, alive with bursts of color and early-morning energy. Next, we visit a local Cemetery home to a unique community where people live among the tombstones — an extraordinary setting for documentary-style photography. After lunch at an iconic Manila restaurant, we experience the gritty, fast-paced world of cockfighting, capturing the intensity and traditions of this age-old sport. As the sun sets, we shift our focus to the legendary jeepneys of Manila, their flamboyant designs glowing in the golden hour light. We spend the night in Manila.
Day 4, Feb 17: Journey to Vigan
We leave Manila behind and journey north to Vigan, a UNESCO World Heritage City. En route, we pass rural landscapes, perfect for capturing pastoral scenes and local life. Once in Vigan, we’ll stroll its cobblestone streets lined with colonial-era houses and illuminated by vintage street lamps — a romantic and nostalgic setting for evening photography. Overnight at our charming hotel in the historic district of Vigan.
Day 5, Feb 18: Capturing Vigan’s Charm
At dawn, we photograph the awakening city as horse-drawn carriages (calesas) glide past Spanish-era architecture. We visit a local pottery workshop, capturing the skilled hands of artisans, and a weaving cooperative, juxtaposing traditional craftsmanship against the curious eyes of schoolchildren nearby. The afternoon light adds magic to the streets of Vigan, offering plenty of opportunities for both street photography and portraiture. We’ll spend our final night in Vigan.
Day 6, Feb 19: Mountainous Sagada
Our adventure continues as we drive southeast to Sagada, nestled in the pine-clad Cordillera Mountains. The journey is a tapestry of rolling hills, misty valleys, and rustic villages — all begging to be photographed. Upon arrival, we explore Sagada’s famous hanging coffins and burial caves, where ancient rituals meet nature’s embrace, making for evocative and mysterious imagery. Overnight at the Rock Inn, a rustic retreat in the mountains.
Day 7, Feb 20: Cordillera’s Hidden Wonders
We journey deeper into the Cordilleras, stopping at the Maligcong rice terraces — a marvel of human ingenuity and natural beauty. The undulating green steps, carved into the mountains, provide striking geometric compositions. Passing through Bontoc, we capture moments of everyday life against a dramatic mountain backdrop before reaching Banaue for the night. Overnight in Banaue.
Day 8, Feb 21: Rice Terraces of Banaue
Today is dedicated to photographing the breathtaking rice terraces of Banaue, often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” We visit multiple vantage points, each revealing a new perspective of this ancient agricultural masterpiece. The highlight of the day is a cultural dance, where vibrant costumes and rhythmic movements create dynamic and vibrant photo opportunities. Overnight in Cauayan.
Day 9, Feb 22: Cauayan to Cebu via Manila.
We bid farewell to Luzon and fly to Cebu, a bustling island city with a rich blend of history and modernity. Our lenses now shift to the urban tapestry of the Visayas region. Overnight at our beautiful seaside resort on Mactan Island.
Day 10, Feb 23: Fish Markets and Boxing Rings
The day begins at Cebu’s lively fish market, capturing the chaos of buyers, and vendors. Later, we step into a local boxing gym in Mandaue, documenting the grit and determination of young fighters — raw, emotional moments set against gritty backdrops. If time permits, we’ll photograph the meticulous preparation of Cebu’s famous lechon (roast pig), a culinary art form in itself. Afterward, we enjoy dinner at a restaurant that Anthony Bourdain himself, proclaimed as, “The best pig ever!”. Overnight at our seaside resort on Mactan Island.
Day 11, Feb 24: Ferry Rides and Candle Dances
A morning ferry takes us to a nearby island, where we visit a starfish processing plant, capturing the surprising intersection of marine life and industry. Returning to Cebu, we explore the Carbon Market — a chaotic, colorful hub of local commerce. Later we see Magellan’s cross and witness the famous candle dancers at the Santo Niño Basilica, blending religion and cultural tradition in a swirl of movement and devotion. Overnight at our seaside resort on Mactan Island.
Day 12, Feb 25: Sunset on Bohol’s Beaches
After a ferry ride to Bohol, we check into our seaside resort. The afternoon invites us to capture the magic of fishermen at work, children playing in the surf, and the kaleidoscope of colors as the sun dips below the horizon. An open-air dinner rounds off the day, with time for sharing our best shots and trading tips. Spend the night in Bohol.
Day 13, Feb 26: Tarsiers and Chocolate Hills
Our day kicks off early at Tagbilaran City’s vibrant local market, alive with color and energy. From there, we venture to the Tarsier Research and Development Center, where we not only learn about these captivating, bug-eyed primates but also have the chance to photograph them in their natural habitat. Come lunchtime, we hop on a short boat ride through the jungle, surrounded by lush, dreamy scenery, all while enjoying live music — and maybe even singing along! The adventure continues with a visit to the iconic Chocolate Hills, where the perfectly symmetrical mounds create a stunning backdrop for wide-angle shots. As the day winds down, we retreat to our peaceful seaside resort in Bohol for an overnight stay.
Day 14, Feb 27: Relax and Reflect
A laid-back day to review portfolios, swim, or explore the island. Optional excursions offer more chances for coastal photography, a boat ride, or simply unwind and capture Bohol’s serene beauty. In the evening, we’ll have a fair well dinner reflecting on the experiences together. Overnight in Bohol.
Day 15, Feb 28: DepartureWe return to Manila for connecting flights home, with captured images of memories and masterpieces, and hearts full of the Philippines’ warmth and wonder.