Guide

Expert Trip Manager + Local Guide

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Manila: What type of luggage should I bring on this trip? Are there any weight restrictions? We recommend that you bring: - One suitcase or backpack with a max weight of 20 kgs (only coz you’ll be flying from Manila to Puerto Princesa!). We’d recommend a backpack instead of a suitcase (for ease when you’re getting on & off boats).- An overnight bag for when you visit Isla Experience Special Stay on Darocotan Island. Manila: Will some departures have a different itinerary? Yes, some departures (see below) visit the Isla Experience Special Stay before visiting El Nido. All other inclusions, meals and locations will remain exactly the same. Here are those departures: - 9th Nov ’24 - 23rd Nov ’24 - 30th Nov ’24 - 12th Apr ’25 Manila: What are the facilities at the Isla Experience Special Stay? The Isla Experience Special Stay is in a remote island in the Philippines. You’ll stay in simple beach huts with a bed, fan, mosquito net, towels and bedding. The showers and toilets are in a shared facility that’s separate from your room. There’s free Wi-Fi too, but it can be slow & there are the occasional power cuts. Best part? Almost everything here runs on solar energy! The bar & communal area is equipped with charging ports, water, tea & coffee stations. You can start a drinks tab and pay on departure (but please remember to get cash, no cards are accepted here!). Manila: What are facilities like during the Boat Expedition? The facilities are perfect for a digital detox. The islands you’ll be visiting are super remote - so please remember to bring anything you might need - like meds - for 3 nights. You’ll stay in beach campsites and huts with shared bathrooms, and no aircon or internet. But hey, you’ve got plenty of sea breeze and jaw-dropping island views to keep you company. Puerto Princesa: Soar over the Manila skyline and aquamarine waters to one of the most beautiful islands in the country - Palawan, in an included flight. Underground River: Cruise through the serene Subterranean River National Park into a kaleidoscope of pointy limestone caves. Don’t miss the chance to watch the 8.2 km long river flow directly into the ocean. Port Barton: Wanna get a taste of Grandma’s home-cooked food the Filipino way? Join Nanay Elena for a traditional meal made from locally-grown ingredients. Port Barton: Want some Filipino keepsakes that you’ll never wanna take off? Here you’ll have the chance to support a local workshop in Port Barton and learn how to make your own rings and bracelets. Port Barton: Snorkel, swim, and dine - get your ocean fix on this island hopping day trip. You’ll visit two tropical islands, gorge on delicious seafood. And possibly even swim with turtles! El Nido: Not riding on the colourfully chaotic Jeepney when in the Philippines? Now that should be considered a crime. Hop onto a private Jeepney for a tour of the wonderful beaches and waterfalls. El Nido: Take a walk on the perfectly curved Nacpan Beach. Sink your feet into the golden-white sand. Or dip them into the cool water - it’s a feast for your eyes, feet and soul. El Nido: Watch the shiny smooth water tearing through the rocky hills of Bulalacao. Don’t forget your swimsuit. This spot is famous for its insta-worthy pictures. Port Barton: Cameras at the ready! Be prepared to witness the bewitching beauty of the sunset at Las Cabanas - arguably one of the best sunset spots in the Philippines. Island Special Stay: Love sea exploration? You’re going to love this shipwreck site that is just off the coast of our island home. Here, you’ll discover the history and secrets of WWII ships. Island Special Stay: It’s time to get dirty (in the best way possible). Join a traditional Kamayan or a boodle fight, where you’ll eat a communal feast served on long banana leaves with your hands. Island Beach Camp: Dive into the brightly colourful world of corals and fishes. It’s an underwater exploration you won’t ever forget! Island Beach Camp: Hop on our private boat for a stopover at the white-sand beaches of remote islands. It’s the perfect spot to get bronzed up under the sun. Island Beach Camp: Put on your swimsuits and dive straight into the cool blue waters of the Turtle Islands. It’s Finding Nemo in real life. Island Beach Camp: Explore the underwater life thriving along the white-sand beaches. Island Beach Camp: Need to fuel up for some more sea exploration? We’ve got you. Dine on some fresh Filipino food onboard our private boat. Onto the next adventure! Island Beach Camp: They come in every shape and size you can imagine. And they’ll keep you wanting more of this geological wonder. Island Beach Camp: Explore historical caves tucked away in a remote island. Who knows what secrets you might uncover there! Island Beach Camp: Stroll off the beaten path into the kaleidoscope of dense and wonderfully lush mangroves. Don’t forget to capture the sight of the wooden bridge suspended over the small lagoons. Island Beach Camp: Test your marine observation skills at a breathtaking reef. Keep your eyes peeled. You might spot the rare ‘sea-cow’, or Dugong if you’re lucky! Island Beach Camp: Lay down your footprints (if the tide gods are on our side) on the white sandbar that peeks over the emerald waters. Island Beach Camp: Prepared to be absolutely stunned? Visit the crystal blue Kayangan Lake, surrounded by impressive rock formations decorated with green plants. Island Beach Camp: Discover the underwater world of blooming corals at the Coral Garden. Clear blue water. Multi-coloured reefs. And a golden opportunity to experience some submarine enigma. Island Special Stay: Support the locals with marine conservation, education and their eco garden while you get irresistible beach-side views. Talk about a win-win!

Accommodation

9 nights in Hotels, 3 nights in Special Stays

Transport

Mini Van + Internal Flight + Boat + Expedition Boat

Meals

4 Dinner (D) 12 Breakfast (B) 7 Lunch (L) Island Beach Camp: Put your bags down at your camp on the beach. Enjoy a sea-side dinner (with a bonfire, of course!). Vibe to local tunes. And end the night stargazing with your crew.

Not included:

Insurance

Insurance is not included.

Flights

International flights are not included.

Optional

No other optional services included.

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Day 1 Day 1: Manila To Puerto Princesa
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 1: Manila To Puerto Princesa

Breathtaking beaches. Spectacular seafood. Rustic marine rendezvous. Welcome to Asia’s Pearl of the Orient, packed with some of the BEST views of your lifetime! There’s so much to see, and there’s no time to waste. You’ll meet your crew in Manila before we zip through the skies straight to our very first white-sand destination. Feel the beach vibes hitting you already? Same. Nothing’s better than a free evening to spend on one of the most pristine islands here, Palawan. But first, we feast. Exchange proper hellos with your fellow travellers over a welcome dinner. And for a prime local experience, you can end the night at a Tiki bar with Filipino tunes and cocktails. Today might be over, but this is just beginning…
Day 2 Day 2: Puerto Princesa To Port Barton Via Underground River
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 2: Puerto Princesa To Port Barton Via Underground River

Morning, sunshine lovers! Today’s the first full day on this wonderful island, so you know we’re starting with a bang. You’ll grab some breakfast at the hotel and head straight to the Subterranean River National Park for a fascinating underground endeavour. Ready? Put on your neon helmets. For your very first adventure, you’ll float through an aquamarine river into one of the most complex cave systems in the world. Surrounded by intricate limestone formations (some of them egg-shaped too!) - you’ll have no doubt about why this glorious landscape is an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bet your eyes are pleased with those gorgeous views. Now it’s time to please our tummies - as part of a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. You’ll stop by at Nanay Elena’s House for a traditional Filipino meal, made using only the freshest ingredients (that she grows in her own farm!). Afterwards, drop your bags at our beachfront hotel. Relax on the shore. Explore the tiny town. The night is still young, and it’s all yours!
Day 3 Day 3: Port Barton
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 3: Port Barton

Need your beauty sleep? Or just need to spend some time on the sandy beach? Today’s the day you can do anything you want. Dive into the crystal blue waters. Grab a book and soak in the sun. Go on a morning hike to check out the rocky hills. Or make your own rings & bracelets in a local workshop. Either way, sublime beach vibes are guaranteed here.
Day 4 Day 4: Port Barton
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 4: Port Barton

Ocean-lovers, unite! Today, we’re going island hopping in our very own private boat. You’ll swim with sea turtles. Snorkel along the vibrant reefs. Grab a scrumptious locally-cooked meal. Dodge waves at the beach. And chill at a starfish sandbar (with your newly-made best friends, of course) as the sun sets over the serene sea. Is this island exploration done right or what?
Day 5 Day 5: Port Barton To El Nido
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 5: Port Barton To El Nido

It’s time to bid farewell to our (now) favourite island stop. But don’t worry, there are plenty more destinations here to give it competition. You’ll start the day with some breakfast at the hotel and with no time to waste, head to the next turquoise-tinted spot. A free afternoon to spend in another wonderful tropical paradise? How lucky are we? Taste the local street food. Or check out the unique shops around town. Oh, and please don’t forget to charge your camera!
Day 6 Day 6: El Nido
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 6: El Nido

Rise and shine folks. It’s time to hit the road (just like the locals) in a wonderfully colourful, classic Jeepney. First stop? The beautiful Lio Beach. Enjoy the peaceful views and walk the wooden footpath that leads into the ocean. And it doesn’t end there. Next, we’ll head to Bulalacao Waterfalls. It’s gonna be really hard to stop yourself from taking a plunge into the enigmatic milky-white water. The day is not complete yet, we’ll head to the most popular beach in all of Palawan (and maybe even the Philippines, if you ask us) - Nacpan Beach. Finally, we’ll end the day at Las Cabanas - one of the best sunset points in the ENTIRE country.
Day 7 Day 7: El Nido
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 7: El Nido

It’s not often you get an entire day in a palm tree paradise to spend just the way you please. But the stars must’ve aligned, because today is one of them! You can explore the pristine white-sand beaches while the sun’s out and spend the night chilling with your crew. It’s a ‘you do you’ kinda day.
Day 8 Day 8: El Nido To Island Special Stay
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 8: El Nido To Island Special Stay

Mabuhay, travellers! The sun has risen, and so has the opportunity to explore another destination with crystal clear water. Munch on your final El Nido meal before we catch a boat-transfer. This is what you’ve been waiting for. You’ll drop your bags off at our Special Stay and head to our next MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experience where we’ll spend time exploring local culture - something straight outta a storybook. Afterwards, you’ll snorkel under the crystal blue water and explore a local shipwreck! We’ll then head to another authentic Filipino experience. Delicious local food served on a long banana leaf across the table devoured with your hands AKA a boodle fight. Finally, we’ll light up a soothing bonfire and end the day resting on the shores (next to our rustic beach huts).
Day 9 Day 9: Island Special Stay To Island Beach Camp
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 9: Island Special Stay To Island Beach Camp

Are ya ready, sea-seekers? Our adventure is about to get wilder. Dine on a wholesome breakfast at the hotel and bid your farewells, before we set out to our first destination of the marine safari. The next 3 days are packed with rustic adventures. You’ll be visiting close to 15 islands on a private boat. Camping on white-sand beaches. And watching the sunset from the most tranquil spots in the Philippines. Today, you’ll be visiting reefs and watching the breathtaking corals that are home to hundreds of fish (let’s hope the weather gods are on our side). Next, you’ll head to a remote island to get a spectacular view of the white sandbars over turquoise waters. Then, we’ll end the night with a campfire, dinner and music (and a wondrous view of the sparkling galaxy decorating the night sky).
Day 10 Day 10: Island Beach Camp
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 10: Island Beach Camp

Another day, another adventure. Today, we’ll continue exploring the sapphire seas. You’ll start the day with some snorkelling. Who knows? You might just spot some turtles (and occasionally sting rays too). If thriving coral reefs and breathtaking beaches are your thing, you’re going to love our next stop. And finally, you’ll explore mind-boggling rock formations & visit secret caves that used to be Japanese hiding spots during World War II.
Day 11 Day 11: Island Beach Camp To Coron
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 11: Island Beach Camp To Coron

If you thought yesterday was the end of our island exploration, you’re in for a surprise. You can start the day with a scenic walk through the dense tropical mangroves and then head to another fringing reef. Keep your eyes peeled - you might spot some Giant Groupers and the occasional Dugongs too. All that diving calls for some relaxation, so you’ll stop by for some lunch and drinks next to a sandbar. Then, we’ll head to (probably) the most clear lake you’ve ever seen. And finally, end the evening with some more snorkelling (can you ever get enough?) What a long (but satisfying) day it’s been! Hungry after all that diving? There are plenty of places around town to grab some dinner. You’ll then head back to the basecamp to finally rest those travel-tired limbs.
Day 12 Day 12: Coron
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 12: Coron

It’s our last full day in this land of serene seas. And guess what? How you spend it is all up to you! Fancy another scuba dive? It’s your lucky day. Coron is known around the world for its intriguing Japanese World War II shipwrecks. Or you could choose to take a tricycle ride to the many beautiful beaches. And if you’re feeling like ditching the cool ocean water for something extra relaxing - the hot springs nearby might just be exactly what you need. Praying this day doesn’t end? Same.
Day 13 Day 13: End Coron
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 13: End Coron

After 13 enticing days of sea, sun, dining and diving - it’s time to say goodbye. Make the most of your last free meal in this wonderful marine ecstasy. Don’t forget to exchange deets with your new best friends. After all, no one can keep away from exciting sea adventures (with amazing company) for too long.

+10

13 days tour

Philippines Island Hopping (With Expedition, 13 Days)

This tour includes:

Not included:

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Itinerary of your trip Philippines Island Hopping (With Expedition, 13 Days)

Day 1: Manila To Puerto Princesa

Day 2: Puerto Princesa To Port Barton Via Underground River

Day 3: Port Barton

Day 4: Port Barton

Day 5: Port Barton To El Nido

Day 6: El Nido

Day 7: El Nido

Day 8: El Nido To Island Special Stay

Day 9: Island Special Stay To Island Beach Camp

Day 10: Island Beach Camp

Day 11: Island Beach Camp To Coron

Day 12: Coron

Day 13: End Coron

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