Meet Rev. Sophia Lizares, the spiritual leader of our Philippines pilgrimage. In this heartfelt conversation, Sophia—a proud daughter of the Philippines—shares her deep connection to the Pearl of the Orient and what makes this sacred journey so unique. She opens up about the powerful stories of faith woven into the islands, the cherished sites you'll visit, and what she hopes every pilgrim will carry home. Her words are a warm and honest invitation to experience the deep spirituality and rich culture of her homeland.
Click here for Interview highlights
Or for the full Interview:
Click here for the full Interview
Don't miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to journey through the first Christian country in Asia!
Discover the Philippines—the Pearl of the Orient—a nation that is cherished, coveted, and deeply faithful. Book your spiritual and cultural pilgrimage to this beautiful melting pot of cultures, featuring an archipelago of over 7,100 islands on the edge of Asia and the Pacific.
Guided by Faith and Heritage
This unique pilgrimage will be led by Rev. Sophia Lizares who is originally from the Philippines. Now serving as a Filipino-Australian pastor, she brings a profound understanding of both the local culture and the deep spiritual roots of the land.
AUD $ 6,995.- per pilgrim in Twin or Double Room.
$200.- Ealy bird discount AUD $ 6,795.- if booked before 30 June 2026.
Single Room Supplement: AUD $ 1,750.-
INCLUSIONS
Accommodations and meals:
Hand picked superior quality 5 Star Hotels with breakfast & meals as indicated in itinerary.
Transportation and Touring;
Deluxe air conditioned buses throughout with English speaking tour guides.
Entrance fees and sightseeing according to itinerary.
Portage at Hotels.
Bus transfers
Exclusions: International & Domestic Airfare estimated $1,800 ,
Visas - meals not mentioned, drinks, compulsory travel
insurance. Tipping fund $15 per day per pilgrim for
guides and Bus Driver will be collected prior to travel.
Experience the awe-inspiring places where faith and culture intertwined—where Spanish missionaries brought the Cross, Filipino martyrs sealed their witness, and centuries of tradition shaped a uniquely vibrant Christian identity in the Philippines. You'll step foot in these sacred communities, gaining a deeper understanding of scripture, living devotion, and the rich cultural heritage that continues to inspire pilgrims today.
Embark on a pilgrimage to the Philippines with a group from Australia —a journey of faith, culture, and discovery. Walk where martyrs witnessed to the gospel, visit living heritage churches, and immerse yourself in traditions that blend centuries of devotion with local soul. This is more than a trip; it's an experience that will inspire and transform you. Don't miss the chance to make it yours.
Discover the living mosaic of Filipino spirituality and tradition—where ancestral rituals meet Christian devotion, and every celebration tells a story of resilience and grace. Walk through communities shaped by centuries of faith, and let the warmth of their culture deepen your own sense of the sacred.
Built in 1607, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the oldest stone church in the Philippines, with stunning Baroque architecture that has withstood earthquakes and wars.
Intramuros, Latin for "within the walls," is the historic heart of Manila and the oldest district in the city. Established in the 16th century as the seat of Spanish colonial rule, this 0.67-square-kilometer
The citadel within Intramuros where national hero Dr. José Rizal was imprisoned before his execution in 1896—a solemn shrine to Filipino freedom and sacrifice.
Located in the world's oldest Chinatown, this is the shrine of the first Filipino saint, St. Lorenzo Ruiz, who served here before his martyrdom in Japan.
Ayala Museum is a premier, modern institution showcasing Philippine history, art, and culture through acclaimed permanent dioramas and vast gold collections. It offers a world-class, curated experience
Home to the miraculous Black Nazarene statue, this basilica draws millions of devotees seeking healing and grace, especially during weekly Friday pilgrimages.
Reputedly the largest Catholic church in Asia, this grand Baroque masterpiece dominates the heritage town of Taal with awe-inspiring scale and artistry.
A 1639 coral-stone shrine housing a miraculously found image of the Virgin Mary, one of only two Vatican-recognized plenary indulgence sites in the Philippines.
Located at the heart of what was once 440 hectares of sugar plantation, The Ruins is exactly what its name connotes: the ruins of a love affair that was cut a little too short, and a bittersweet reminder of a bygone era.
FAQs
How do I secure a Booking?
- Simply fill in the booking form per Individual and pay the required deposit. You can pay by credit card through Travel pay or deposit the amount into our bank account once the place has been confirmed.
Flight bookings
- We do group bookings, so if you would like to travel with the group, we can arrange your flights. For anyone who wants to arrange their own flights please advise Christian pilgrimage when filling the booking form.
Where do I meet the group?
- You will be advised where you will meet the group before departure it will be available in your documents before traveling.
Airport transfers
- Individuals who purchase a pilgrimage and air package are not required to pay a fee for transfer unless they decide to arrive before or to extend their travel or deviate from the group or add an extension to their travel then a fee would apply.
When is the final balance required?
- Payment in full must be received by the date(s) reflected on your invoice OR no less than 90 days before commencement of your trip whichever date comes first.
What is the average size of a group?
- Most pilgrimages depart with smaller groups average 28 Pilgrims.
Travel Insurance
- Travel insurance is compulsory
You cannot travel with us if you do not have travel insurance.
We advise travel insurance to be taken out straight at the same time of you paying the deposit. As Travel insurance may cover you whilst you are still here and also against cancellation or amendments in the event of unseen circumstances. For travel insurance you can ask us to quote you on this link. We offer a 20% discount on travel insurance.
What if I need Medical assistance?
- While Christian Pilgrimage does its best to follow Safe Travel procedures we do not employ medically trained staff on any of the tours. Should medical assistance be required while on tour, the tour guide may be able to provide some assistance or arrange transport to a hospital, it is the individual’s responsibility for all charges incurred at the time. Please consult https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/news-and-updates/what-do-if-you-test-positive-covid-19-when-travelling
Vaccinations?
- Please check https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/travel-vaccinations for vaccinations required for each destination.
Passport and Visas:
- All passports have to be valid for a minimum of 6 months in advance. As for visa requirements we will advise you of any visas requirements for your travel itinerary and can assist you in the process of obtaining these. Application forms along with visa fee information will be provided in your letter of confirmation. Non-Australian passport holders will need to apply for their visa in person through the respective Consulate or Embassy