Discover the unparalleled beauty of the Philippines on our 13-day Philippines Island Explorer adventure. This journey takes you through some of the country’s most stunning landscapes, perfect for sun lovers, thrill-seekers, and culture enthusiasts alike.
Experience the thrill of canyoneering at the majestic Kawasan Falls, where you’ll navigate through breathtaking canyons and plunge into crystal-clear pools. Dive into an underwater spectacle at Moalboal’s Sardine Run, where you’ll find yourself surrounded by thousands of shimmering sardines in a truly magical marine environment.
Embark on a 3-day boat expedition that unveils the untouched splendor of remote islands and towering emerald cliffs as you travel between Coron and El Nido. This journey will immerse you in the pristine, untouched beauty of the Philippines’ coastline.
Explore the vibrant sights of El Nido with a local Jeepney Tour, offering a unique perspective on this remarkable destination. Throughout your adventure, you’ll be guided by a knowledgeable group leader and accompanied by a friendly group of new friends, making every moment of your trip memorable and enriching.
Arrive: Manila
Depart: El Nido
13 Days / 12 Nights
4-20 Guests
Accommodation: 11 Nights - Hotel, Beach Hut (Twin/Double Rooms)
Included Meals: Breakfast x 12, Lunch x 6, Dinner x 2
Inclusions
Accommodation: 11 Nights - Hotel, Beach Hut (Twin/Double Rooms)
Included Meals: Breakfast x 12, Lunch x 6, Dinner x 2
Airport Pickup To Our Accom 24/7
Transport: Planes, Ferries, Tricycles & Minibuses
Internal Flights x 2
Awesome Group Leader
Waterfalls
Beach Sunsets
Sardine Run
Kawasan Falls Canyoneering
Simala Shrine
Hot Springs
Coron Viewpoint
3 Day Boat Expedition
Snorkelling
Deserted Paradise Islands
Cultural Activities
Jeepney Tour of El Nido
Nacpan Beach
Help with Onward Travel
100% Carbon Neutral Tour
Exclusions
Arrival / Departure Flights
Travel Insurance
Arrival Visa
Some Meals
Personal Expenses
Itinerary
Day 1Welcome to Manila!
Kamusta and welcome to Manila! As you arrive in this lively and bustling capital, we’ll be there to meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel. Once settled, you’ll have plenty of time to unwind and refresh after your journey. When you’re ready, you’ll have the opportunity to meet and connect with your new travel companions, setting the stage for the exciting adventures that lie ahead.
Day 2Travel to Moalboal
Today, we embark on a journey to Cebu, starting with a brief flight followed by a scenic ferry ride. Once we arrive, we’ll drive along the picturesque coast, making stops to marvel at some of Cebu’s most breathtaking waterfalls. Along the way, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to capture stunning photos for your social media, showcasing the natural beauty and charm of the Philippines.
Day 3Kawasan Waterfall
Today, get ready for an exhilarating adventure as we dive into an adrenaline-pumping canyoneering experience at Kawasan Waterfalls! This exciting activity will push your limits as you not only admire the stunning beauty of the falls but also take daring leaps into the crystal-clear, vibrant blue pools below. It’s an unforgettable opportunity to experience nature’s thrills up close and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Day 4Sardine Run
This morning, we’ll set out to witness the renowned Sardine Run in Moalboal, a natural spectacle that could easily be featured in a David Attenborough documentary. You’ll have the unique opportunity to snorkel amidst millions of sardines in the crystal-clear waters, creating an experience that’s truly unparalleled. We’ll also be hoping for a glimpse of sea turtles! In the afternoon, you’ll have the freedom to continue exploring Moalboal, or simply unwind and relax by the beach or pool.
Day 5Simala Church & Travel to Coron
On our journey to catch our second flight of the trip from Cebu City, we’ll make a notable stop at Simala Church. This visit will provide us with a fascinating glimpse into the history of Spanish colonization in the Philippines. The church’s architectural grandeur and historical significance offer a rich context for understanding the country’s past. Following our visit, we’ll continue to the airport and board our flight to Busuanga Island. Upon arrival, we’ll check in to our accommodation and settle in, preparing for the next exciting chapter of our adventure.
Day 6Snorkelling & Coron Nightlife
Prepare to grab your snorkel gear and underwater camera as we embark on a snorkeling adventure in the Sulu Sea. We’ll explore some of Coron’s most renowned snorkeling spots, where you’ll have the chance to encounter a dazzling array of marine life. From vibrant fish to stunning coral formations, the underwater world promises to be a visual feast.
After a day of aquatic exploration, we’ll transition to an evening of excitement as we dive into Coron’s lively nightlife. Get ready to experience the vibrant local scene, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy music, entertainment, and the unique atmosphere that makes Coron’s nights unforgettable.
Day 7Mt Tapyas & Maquinit Hot Springs
After a leisurely morning, it’s time to lace up your hiking boots as we embark on a short but rewarding trek up Mount Tapyas. The hike will lead us to a breathtaking viewpoint where we can take in stunning panoramic vistas of the bay below.
Following our hike, we’ll make our way to Maquinit Hot Springs for a relaxing sunset experience. Here, we’ll unwind in the naturally heated saltwater pools, enjoying the soothing warmth and the tranquil setting as the day comes to a close. This combination of scenic beauty and relaxation promises a perfect end to the day.
Day 8Boat Expedition Day 1
Today, we embark on an unforgettable 3-day journey from Coron to El Nido. This adventure will take us off the beaten path, as we sail away on a traditional Banca boat to explore secluded islands. We’ll leave our footprints on pristine white sandy beaches, snorkel in crystal-clear turquoise waters, engage with local tribes, and enjoy stargazing on the beach.
This expedition is designed to ignite your sense of adventure. Our accommodation will be in traditional Filipino huts, where you’ll find a simple setup with just a mattress, mosquito net, and bucket shower. Though basic, the huts offer an intimate experience with nature, surrounded by stunning landscapes, abundant fresh food, and a serene atmosphere away from the crowds. The unique charm and breathtaking views make the simplicity of this experience truly rewarding.
Day 9Boat Expedition Day 2
As we continue our voyage towards El Nido, we’ll explore even more uninhabited beaches and swim in some of the clearest waters on the planet, surrounded by vibrant marine life. With no Wi-Fi to distract us, we’ll be fully immersed in the stunning natural beauty of our environment, allowing us to focus entirely on our daily routine: swim, snorkel, sunbathe, and repeat. Tonight, we’ll settle into a traditional beach camp, where we can drift off to sleep listening to the soothing sound of the ocean.
Day 10Arrival in El Nido
Our boat expedition concludes today as we reach El Nido on the island of Palawan, our final destination in this breathtaking country. After several action-packed days of sailing and snorkeling, we’ll have ample free time to relax on the beach, enjoy refreshing drinks, soak up the sun, and explore the charming town of El Nido. In the evening, we’ll dive into the vibrant nightlife and experience the local scene.
Day 11Massages & Canopy Walk
This morning, we’ll indulge in a relaxing Filipino massage, a perfect way to unwind and rejuvenate our muscles after all the excitement of our adventures. Following our massage, we’ll embark on a canopy walk through the lush jungle, offering us a unique vantage point to take in stunning views of the town and its surroundings from above.
As evening approaches, you’ll have the freedom to choose how you’d like to spend your night. With a myriad of options available, whether you want to explore local dining spots, enjoy a leisurely stroll, or immerse yourself in the local nightlife, the choice is yours to make the most of your evening.
Day 12Jeepney Tour & Nacpan Beach
On our final day of exploration, we’ll hop into a Jeepney for a comprehensive tour of El Nido. Our first stop will be a local organic farm, where we’ll enjoy a delightful lunch on the beach while watching a traditional Filipino dance performed by local children. Afterwards, we’ll head to Nacpan Beach, renowned as one of the most picturesque locations on Palawan, and visit a few local spots to experience authentic Filipino island life. As the day winds down, we’ll gather for our farewell dinner and drinks, celebrating the memorable journey we’ve shared.
Day 13Fond Farewell
As our 13-day adventure draws to a close, it’s time to say goodbye. You have the option to check out and head back home, extend your stay in El Nido, or continue exploring the Philippines. If you need any help with planning your next steps, we’re more than happy to assist you!
ARRIVAL INFORMATION
Your Philippines Island Explorer tour begins in Manila. For the best experience, aim to arrive on the start date of the tour or earlier. There are no planned activities on the first day, so you can arrive at any time that suits you. If you arrive early and are staying at our accommodation, we’ll arrange airport pickup for you. We also advise booking your onward travel out of the Philippines before you arrive, as you might be asked for proof of onward travel before boarding your flight to the Philippines.
AFTER YOUR TRIP
The 13-day Philippines Island Explorer tour concludes in El Nido, Palawan. You have the option to extend your stay in El Nido or continue exploring the Philippines. If you need to return to Manila or travel to other islands, the nearest airport is El Nido (ENI), which is about a 30-minute drive away. However, El Nido airport has limited and often expensive flight options. A more affordable alternative with more frequent flights is Puerto Princesa Airport (PPS), approximately 5 hours away by minibus from El Nido, costing around £10/$20 AUD.
If you have a flight from Manila on the final day, consider the travel costs and time required to get from El Nido or Puerto Princesa to Manila. When booking your flights to the Philippines, compare the costs of flying directly to your destination versus the options for returning to Manila to determine the best choice for your situation. Your group leader is available to assist with any further travel arrangements within the Philippines.
VISAS
Most nationalities, including those from the UK, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the USA, Scandinavia, and most South American countries, generally receive a 30-day visa exemption upon arrival at no cost. Brazilian passport holders receive a 59-day visa exemption. We recommend checking specific visa requirements before your trip to ensure you have the necessary documentation.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Travel insurance is compulsory, and you will be asked to provide proof of your cover before your trip begins.
BOOKING T&Cs:
We recommend you familiarise yourself with our Booking Terms & Conditions for more information about our booking, deposit and cancellation policies.