Overview
How does one find the best cycling route in the Philippines with so many islands to choose from? Our solution is a 13-day journey in the middle island group of Visayas. You ride over four islands on paved roads through farmland, forests, and hills, as well as along stunning Pacific coasts. Cycling is enhanced by several pauses at cultural attractions, natural wonders, palm-fringed beaches, and evenings spent in wonderful lodgings.
By hopping from one island to the next, you will experience first hand how different the islands are despite being so close geographically. You will notice that one thing that all of the islands have in common, though, is the exuberant, fun-loving, and easygoing Filipinos!
This route has been designed not only to see a wide variety of the islands, but the best sites on each as well. The riding is varied including undulating roads, short steep climbs, awesome descents, and, of course, refreshing flat coastal roads.
Highlights
- Island hopping and exploring by ferry and bike!
- Pristine waters and world-famous beaches
- Cebu, cultural hub
- Bohol's chocolate mountains
- Mysterious Island of Siquijor
- Quaint town of Dumaguete
- Unique fusion cuisine, linked to a history shaped by colonialism
Looking for a different flavor? Explore our bike tours in Thailand, Vietnam, and Sri Lanka.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Cebu
Day 2: Cebu City - Loboc, 19 mi. (30 km)
Day 3: Loboc - Carmen, 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 4: Carmen - Sierra Bullones - Anda, 51 mi. (83 km)
Day 5: Anda Rest Day
Day 6: Anda - Dimiao, 39 mi. (62 km)
Day 7: Dimiao - Panglao - Tagbilaran, 47 mi. (76 km)
Day 8: Tagbilaran - Siquijor, 17 mi. (27 km)
Day 9: Siquijor Coastal Loop, 53 mi. (86 km)
Day 10: Siquijor Highlands Loop, 19 mi. (31 km)
Day 11: Siquijor - Dumaguete - Moalboal, 43 mi. (70km)
Day 12: Moalboal - Cebu, 27 mi. (44 km)
Day 13: Cebu* This adventure cycling tour often goes beyond the beaten track and therefore is not always predictable. Due to these reasons, it is occasionally necessary to reroute or update itineraries. The trip will not be changed unless needed for safety or improvement.
Day 1: Arrival in Cebu
Upon arrival, a transfer is included from the airport to the hotel. In the evening, there will be an introductory meeting and dinner during which you will learn about the tour and meet your fellow cyclists. (D)Accommodation: Quest Hotel
Day 2: Cebu City - Loboc, 19 mi. (30 km)
In the early morning, you board a boat to navigate to Tagbilaran, the capital of Bohol. We will meet our reliable support vehicle, a typical Filipino 'jeepney,' and transfer to a short distance to have lunch and have our bike-fitting. After lunch, you ride a quiet dirt road through small villages, past a small lake, and terraced rice paddies to a paved road that leads to the Tarsier Sanctuary. After learning about these unique nocturnal creatures and hopefully sighting one or two, you are back on the bikes for a fabulous winding ride down to the picturesque Loboc River and your resort. (B,L,D)Accommodation: Loboc River Resort
Elevation gain/loss: +296m/-341 mDay 3: Loboc - Carmen, 25 mi. (40 km)
Today's ride takes us deep into the heart of Bohol. It will need some moderate climbing, but the view along the route is well worth the effort. After 6 kilometers, we stop at a viewpoint overlooking a gorge of the Loboc River surrounded by the dense jungle canopy. Those who are feeling adventurous can zip line or ride a cable car over the gorge (at their own expense). Back on our bikes, we ride up to the Carmen Plateau, passing through the Bilar Man-Made Forest, a wide procession of mahogany trees towering above the road. The topography flattens out for the next 20 km as we pedal slowly into the world-famous Chocolate Hills, a stunning area coated with 1,200 symmetrical brown-earth-hued hills. According to local tradition, the hills were built by quarreling giants tossing rocks at each other. A geological explanation is also available, however, it is a little more complicated! After saddling up for the day, we'll drive up to one of the hills' tops for lunch and panoramic views. We will spend the night in a charming guesthouse near Carmen. (B,L,D)Accommodation: Villa del Carmen Bed & Breakfast
Elevation gain/loss: +296m/-748 mDay 4: Carmen - Sierra Bullones - Anda, 51 mi. (83 km)
The journey begins with a 15 km flat road ride through picturesque farmlands before ascending 17 km into the Sierra Bullones highlands. The landscape is a mix of lush jungle and emerald rice terraces, showcasing the rural Philippines. The summit at 790 m ASL is reached, followed by a 20 km descent down the order side of the highlands, passing villages and vistas of mist-clad mountains surrounding rice terraces. After lunch in Jagna, the journey continues for 30 km to Anda, tracing an undulating coast-hugging route with frequent glimpses of scenic bays. The ride ends at a cozy boutique resort on a rocky headland overlooking the Pacific Ocean. (B,L,D)Accommodation: Blue Star Dive & Resort
Elevation gain/loss: +1049 m/-1278 mDay 5: Anda Rest Day
After many kilometers of cycling, today you'll enjoy a much-deserved rest day! One option is to head to the beautiful beaches of Anda, where you can relax, snorkel the coral reefs, and sunbathe. Another option would be to visit Lamanoc Island and the anthropologically important cave paintings - made with bare hands - that date back tens of thousands of years. You can also see fossilized giant clams on the island. The sparking pool awaits you back at the resort. (B,L,D)Accommodation: Blue Star Dive & Resort
Day 6: Anda - Dimiao, 39 mi. (62 km)
This day, we will cycle through Bohol's off-the-beaten path, starting with a 6 km jeepney transfer. We will cycle through the daily life of Visayas, tackling some climbs but not too arduous. After 40 km, we will stop for a picnic lunch at the Malinao Reservoir. We then cycle further to Bilar, where we will embark on an afternoon ride on paved and broken roads, passing through the countryside and downhills to the coast. We will visit a beautiful waterfall in the jungle, where we will enjoy a refreshing dip before completing the final 5 km to reach our accommodations on the rocky shores of Dimiao. (B,L,D)Accommodation: Kayla's Beach Resort
Elevation gain/loss: +631m/-757 mDay 7: Dimiao - Panglao - Tagbilaran, 47 mi. (76 km)
This coastal riding tour starts from Dimiao and continues west, passing through numerous fishing villages and coastal towns. After 30 km, we reach Baclayon, home to one of the oldest coral stone Catholic churches in the Philippines. The church's weathered yet delicately curated facade and interior connect to the country's Spanish colonial past and enduring Christian faith. We ride for 5 km to a bridge connecting the mainland to the offshore island of Panglao. The route covers nearly the entire island, featuring rolling terrain of rural, residential, and semi-urban areas. At the 50 km mark, we stop for lunch with views of the Bohol Sea and continue to Alona Beach. The ride ends at the Hinagdanan Cave, an underground chamber with stalactites and stalagmites. We will then travel by jeepney for 30 minutes to the bustling city of Tagbilaran which is where we’ll catch a boat to our next island the following morning! (B,L,D)Accommodation: Bohol Tropics Resort
Elevation gain/loss: +380 m/-375 mDay 8: Tagbilaran - Siquijor, 17 mi. (27 km)
It's time to move islands for the second time, and this time we'll ride bikes from the hotel to a local port. We'll board a boat going to Siquijor, where we'll spend two hours relaxing on the islands. We'll be greeted by a support jeepney after disembarking and taken to a hilltop restaurant for lunch. Siquijor is a beautiful island famed for its palm-tree-studded beaches, jungle-clad highlands, and rich cultural legacy. Some claim it has a reputation for sorcery and dark magic, although the residents and seaside resorts make that hard to believe. We'll ride 25 km to our beachfront resort, where we'll stay for three nights, after a pleasant drop to the shore. (B,L,D)Accommodation: Coco Grove Resort
Elevation gain/loss: +153 m/ -286 mDay 9: Siquijor Coastal Loop, 53 mi. (86 km)
The island adventure begins with an 86 km coastal road ride through Siquijor, navigating through uphills, downhills, and flat stretches. The first stop is the "Enchanted Balete Tree," a 400-year-old fig tree with a natural pool of pristine water inhabited by small fish. The journey then continues to Lazi, the Philippines' oldest coral stone Catholic Convent, with its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture. The tour then continues to Salagdoong Beach, where visitors can admire the turquoise waters and jump in from a rocky outcrop. After lunch, we loop back to the resort offers frequent ocean views and local fisherfolk displaying their catches. (B,L,D)Accommodation: Coco Grove Resort
Elevation gain/loss: +823 m/-823 mDay 10: Siquijor Highlands Loop, 19 mi. (31 km)
This day's itinerary includes a 45-minute jeepney transfer to Mount Bandilaan National Park, where we enjoy panoramic views of the rainforest canopy. We then take a 10 km descent down the park's southern slopes, stopping at Cambugahay Waterfalls for a dip before lunch at a local eatery. After lunch, we can cycle back to the resort or relax by the beach. The day is flexible, and we may arrange a session with a traditional healer, providing insight into Siquijor's mysterious and esoteric side. However, this can only be confirmed on an ad-hoc basis, depending on the healer's availability. The itinerary is designed to be flexible and offers a unique cultural experience. (B,L,D)Accommodation: Coco Grove Resort
Elevation gain/loss: +286m/-859 mDay 11: Siquijor - Dumaguete - Moalboal, 43 mi. (70km)
This day's cycling itinerary includes three islands and two boats. We will take the first ferry that departs from Siquijor pier at 5 AM, heading to the neighboring Negros Island. The boat takes about an hour to reach the town of Dumaguete, a charming port city, and we will have our breakfast there. The next ferry crosses the Tanon Strait to Cebu's southern tip. Both boat journeys this morning last about an hour and provide breathtaking views of the sea as well as an insight into the hustle and bustle of inter-island travel in the Philippines. When we arrive at the dock in southern Cebu, we get on our bikes and ride north for 70 kilometers along the coast. We pedal from one steep point to the next, in an up-down-straight rhythm, till we arrive at the beach village of Moalboal! This is coastal Cebu at its best, with fishing villages and old towns set against a gorgeous blue ocean backdrop. (B,L,D)Accommodation: Secret Paradise Moalboal
Elevation gain/loss: +624 m/-628 mDay 12: Moalboal - Cebu, 27 mi. (44 km)
The "Moalboal Sardine Run" at sunrise is a breathtaking underwater phenomenon. Participants can swim above large schools of sardines and other aquatic species, such as turtles, along the coast and coral reef. This optional but highly recommended experience is followed by a fascinating journey across Cebu Island, facing difficult climbs and breathtaking views. The bike trip ends with a downhill sprint to the east coast. After packing bikes and boarding a support vehicle, the journey takes 2-3 hours to Cebu City. Lunch is provided, and a goodbye meal is shared in the evening after arriving in town and settling into a hotel. (B,L,D)Accommodation: Quest Hotel
Elevation gain/loss: +758m/-753mDay 13: Cebu
It's time to bid farewell to the Philippines, extend your stay in Cebu, or go for your next destination. There are many more islands to discover! We'll take you to the airport if you have a flight today.Looking for more? Check out all our bike tours or look at our featured trips, specials, and news.
Map
Accommodation
Carefully chosen accommodations that are the best available for the location and offer a good mix from comfortable to luxurious lodges and resorts. On each day’s itinerary, you will find the preferred accommodation listed. If for any reason, a change is necessary due to availability or other circumstance, the alternative will always be of the same standard or better.
Inclusions
What’s Included
- Accommodations for 12 nights
- Airport pickup/dropoff transfers
- Meals as per the itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
- Snacks, local fruits, and water are provided throughout the day when cycling
- English-speaking tour guide (two guides if the group is larger than 9)
- 24 to 27-speed Trek mountain bike
- Support vehicle
- Ferry/boat fares
- Complimentary water bottle and bike jersey
What’s Not Included
- International/domestic flights
- Alcoholic drinks
- Visa fees
- Gratuities
- Bike Protection
- Travel Insurance
Dates & Pricing
Dates
2024
June 9*, July 14, August 18, September 8, October 6, November 10 & December 15*, 2024
*Indicates a guaranteed departure.
2025
January 5, February 16, April 6, June 8, July 13, August 17, September 7, October 5, November 9 & December 14, 2025
Group size: 2 - 12 cyclists
Please Note
- Rates are per person, based on double occupancy
- Tour prices are based on the fuel costs at time prices are set, often months or years in advance. In rare cases, additional fees may apply for fuel cost increases.
- Information to read before you book
- We recommend purchasing trip insurance
- Please see our FAQ
Pricing
2024/2025
Twin/double $ 5322 £ 2747 $ 4,944 € 3281 Ft 1317282 kr 490628 ₪ 13498 ¥ 535418 Mex$ 69214 NZ$ 5877 kr 38365 zł 14083 S$ 4686 kr 37256 CHF 3078 $ 3,520 Single supplement $ 567 £ 293 $ 527 € 350 Ft 140335 kr 52269 ₪ 1438 ¥ 57040 Mex$ 7374 NZ$ 626 kr 4087 zł 1500 S$ 499 kr 3969 CHF 328 $ 375 You can avoid the single surcharge if you are willing to share accommodation with another traveler of the same gender. If a roommate is not found, you will enjoy a single room at no extra charge. If you prefer not to share a room, a single supplement will be incurred.
Extra Info
Skill Level — Difficult
This fully guided and fully supported bike tour covers 598 km in nine cycling days, primarily on tarmac roads with little traffic. You will average 60 km per day. There are a few sections of dirt roads, but there is no technical riding required. There are a few challenging climbs and some fast, sweeping descents. Any portion of the ride can be skipped by utilizing the support vehicle. You should be in relatively overall good physical shape with at minimum a moderate degree of cycling experience. Your guide’s expert knowledge of the area and terrain means that you always know what is coming up regarding distance and difficulty.
Airport Info
Fly in and out of Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB).
Local Travel
Arrival and departure transfers are included in your tour price.
Climate
The climate in the Philippines is hot, humid, and tropical. Filipinos generally recognize three seasons: Summer from March to May (the hottest), rainy season from July to November (the wettest and also typhoon season), and cold season from December to February (moderate for those from temperate countries).
Recommended
Wearing a helmet is required and is non-negotiable. If you do not wear a helmet you will not be allowed to cycle. Your tour leader is trained in first aid and emergency rescue, but to a large degree you must be responsible for your safety while riding. It is therefore compulsory that you take out travel insurance.
Remarks
We recommend that you visit your family physician and ask about the following vaccinations: typhoid, polio, tetanus, and hepatitis A. A certificate for Yellow Fever is required when arriving from an infected area within six days.
Wearing a helmet is required and is non-negotiable. If you do not wear a helmet, you will not be permitted to cycle. Your tour leader is trained in first aid and emergency rescue, but to a large degree, you are responsible for your own safety while riding.Important to know
Travel documents
All nationalities require a passport for entry into the Philippines. Please ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from date of entry. If staying less than 30 days then a visa is not required by European, North American, Australian, and many other nationalities. The exceptions being passport holders of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR), British National Overseas (BNO), and Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) who are only allowed up to 7 days stay without a visa. You will need to show proof of an onward flight out of the Philippines. For stays longer than 30 days, a Temporary Visitors Visa is required.
Tour Operator
This tour is run by Spice Roads.
We value the strong relationship we have with our local partners and the services we provide.
We are not a broker.
We do not inflate tour prices.
We are simply travelers helping travelers.Would you like to learn more About Us? How about What Makes Us Different than other companies?
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