Manila and Pagsanjan Falls: 3-Day Package

Manila and Pagsanjan Falls: 3-Day Package
Location: Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines
Country: Philippines
Rating: 4.6
Price: $265 per person
Supplier: Abraham Tours Philippines

A quick glance at this 3-day tour reveals a thoughtfully designed experience that pairs urban exploration with natural beauty. Starting in Manila, you’ll wander through lively markets and historic sites, all with a local guide who’s eager to share stories and insights. Then, you’ll switch gears for the highlight—an unforgettable canoe trip to Pagsanjan Falls, with scenic drives, unique transport like trolley rides, and a peaceful boat journey into nature.

Two things we love? First, the way this tour balances urban adventure with serene natural scenery, giving you a full taste of Filipino life and landscapes. Second, the inclusion of local transportation experiences—riding jeepneys, biking, and crossing on river ferries—which makes you really feel part of the everyday scene. A possible consideration? The tour involves a fair amount of walking, so those with mobility issues might find some parts challenging.

This experience suits curious travelers who enjoy diverse activities—city wandering, cultural insights, and outdoor adventures—all rolled into one. It’s especially ideal if you want an authentic, budget-friendly way to see Manila’s highlights while also escaping into nature’s calm.

Key Points

Balanced itinerary: Combines Manila’s city life with the peaceful Pagsanjan Falls.
Local transport: Experience jeepneys, bikes, and river ferries for authentic travel.
Comfortable base: Stay three nights at Abraham Manila, with options to upgrade.
All-inclusive value: Includes accommodation, guided tours, meals, entrance fees, and transportation.
Small group: Limited to 18 participants for a more personal experience.
Practical details: Includes breakfast daily and lunches on tour days, with optional upgrades and flexible cancellation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Manila’s Heart: What To Expect

Starting from the Abraham Manila hostel, your journey into the city begins with a local guide leading you through a walking tour that’s as much about tasting as it is about sights. Expect to visit lively spots like Quiapo Market, where the smells of fresh produce and street food fill the air, and Binondo Chinatown, which pulses with history, culture, and vibrant storefronts.

We loved the way the tour blends walking, biking, and jeepney rides—these are not just transportation methods but moments to observe Filipino life up close. Riding a jeepney, in particular, is a colorful and lively experience, giving you a glimpse into the popular, informal way of getting around.

The historic Intramuros district is another highlight—here, you’ll walk along cobbled streets lined with colonial-era architecture, and get a sense of Manila’s layered past. The tour’s guide, whose enthusiasm comes through clearly, helps interpret the sites’ significance without overwhelming you with facts.

After a full day of city exploration, you’ll return to Abraham Manila to relax and prepare for the next day’s adventures. The accommodation offers a comfortable base, and the included breakfasts help start your mornings on the right foot.

Planning more time in Manila? We've covered other experiences worth considering.

The Scenic Escape to Pagsanjan Falls

The second major part of the tour is the trip to Pagsanjan Falls. The journey begins with a scenic drive that takes you through lush rural landscapes, offering a welcome break from the urban scene. You might find the drive itself as memorable as the destination because of the verdant views along the way.

Once at the town of Los Banos, you’ll experience a trolley ride, which is a charming, old-fashioned way to get around—think of it as parts of a vintage amusement park. Then, the highlight: a canoe ride to the falls. Here, the calm water and lush surroundings provide a peaceful contrast to the busy city. The boatmen, who might ask for an additional fee (around 250 PHP), guide you through narrow channels, past waterfalls, and into the heart of nature’s quiet grandeur.

Travelers consistently mention the “stunning views” during this part of the tour. The combination of scenic landscapes, the gentle sound of water, and the cool breeze makes it an experience to remember. It’s a peaceful retreat that beautifully balances the hustle of Manila.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What’s Not

For $265, you’re getting a lot of value. The package includes three nights’ accommodation at Abraham Manila, with options to upgrade to a private room if you prefer more privacy. The tour covers all transportation, including the city sightseeing, the scenic drive, trolley ride, and canoe trip to Pagsanjan Falls.

Meals are taken care of with breakfast each morning and lunch during the tour days, which means fewer worries about finding places to eat. All entrance fees are included, and the bike rental during the city tour helps you cover more ground comfortably.

However, keep in mind that the boatmen fee at Pagsanjan (250 PHP per person) is paid in cash and isn’t included in the tour price. Also, the tour does not include flights or drinks outside of the provided meals, and certain upgrades or private rooms cost extra.

The tour’s small group format (limited to 18) ensures a more intimate experience, which is perfect if you prefer personalized attention or want to avoid large crowds.

Transportation and Timing

Transportation in the city involves jeepneys, bike rentals, and river ferries, each offering a chance to see daily life unfold. The timing of the tour is flexible—check availability to see starting times. Be prepared for a full but manageable schedule, with enough breaks to soak in the sights or grab a snack.

Since the tour is designed to be a balanced mix of activities, you’ll want comfortable shoes, sun protection, and your camera ready for plenty of photo opportunities. The guides emphasize practical tips, like bringing water and sunblock, to keep you comfortable.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This package is best suited for curious travelers who enjoy a blend of cultural exploration and outdoor adventure. If you’re interested in experiencing local transportation methods and want to see both urban life and natural beauty, this tour checks those boxes.

It’s especially good for budget-conscious travelers who appreciate all-inclusive pricing and don’t mind a busy schedule. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility concerns, some parts of the walk and boat rides might be challenging.

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Final Thoughts

This 3-day Manila and Pagsanjan Falls tour offers a well-rounded taste of what the Philippines has to offer. From the bustling streets of Manila to the tranquil, scenic boat ride to Pagsanjan Falls, it combines authentic experiences with good value. The mix of city walking, local transportation, and nature is perfect for those who want to see a lot without feeling overwhelmed.

While it’s not a luxury experience, it’s comfortable, organized, and genuinely engaging—making it an excellent choice for adventurous travelers eager to see the real Philippines beyond the usual tourist spots. Pack your sense of curiosity, some comfortable shoes, and an appetite for discovery.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Not really. The tour involves walking, biking, and boat rides that could be difficult for those with mobility impairments.

What is included in the price?
You get three nights’ accommodation at Abraham Manila, guided city and Pagsanjan Falls tours, transportation, breakfasts, lunches, and all entrance fees.

Do I need to pay extra for the boatmen at Pagsanjan Falls?
Yes. The boatmen fee of 250 PHP per person is paid in cash and not included in the tour price.

Can I upgrade my accommodation?
Yes, there is an option to upgrade to a private room for an additional cost.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and hiking shoes for comfort during walking and boat trips.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s generally suitable for active travelers, but those with very young children or mobility issues might find some activities challenging.

How long does each part of the tour take?
The city tour and Pagsanjan trip are structured to fit into the overall 3-day schedule, with enough time allocated for each activity and breaks.

What is the ideal traveler for this experience?
Adventurers eager to combine urban exploration with outdoor scenery, travelers on a budget, and those who enjoy authentic local transport and scenic landscapes.

This tour offers a practical, enriching way to experience the Philippines—highlighting Manila’s vibrant street life and ending with the peaceful beauty of Pagsanjan Falls. It’s a memorable journey that balances culture and nature, perfect for those wanting a genuine glimpse into Filipino life.

You can check availability for your dates here: