The Philippines is truly an unbeatable destination, if you’re into authentic experiences in the world’s most incredible tropical islands, then this is the trip for you.
We are incredibly proud of this action packed tour as it was the very first destination we ran our trips in! Since then we’ve curated the ultimate 10 day Philippines tour that will see you explore a UNESCO World Heritage Underground River, visit some of the world’s most breathtaking island hopping destinations, cook with locals, climb coconut trees and even stay overnight at a private beach camp. Relax under the stars and snorkel with turtles in Port Barton, float in the crystal clear emerald waters & find yourself in awe of the majestic limestone cliffs in El Nido.
Day 1 – Arrive in Manila! Let's go!
Arrive at any time in Manila and we will meet you at the airport. We take you through the winding streets to our boutique hostel in central Manila. Settle into your accommodation and in the evening join the rest of the group for a delicious welcome meal up on the rooftop terrace and enjoy a few drinks overlooking the Manila skyline.
Day 2 - Palawan here we come!
We are heading to Palawan! Start your day with a leisurely breakfast, then take a short flight to Puerto Princesa. You'll have some free time to enjoy a refreshing swim in the pool, a relaxing massage or simply unwind. In the evening, we will dine at a local restaurant in this charming coastal city.
Day 3: UNESCO Underground River, Port Barton
We have an early start as we head out to the UNESCO Underground River. We explore a portion of the accessible underground river by boat before stopping for lunch. Afterwards, we'll continue on a scenic drive to the remote and stunning Port Barton. Spend the afternoon sipping fresh coconuts on golden sand while listening to some island reggae in the background. Tonight we will sleep in traditional Filipino-style beach bungalows listening to the sound of the ocean.
Day 4: Private Beach Camp! Snorkelling, Waterfall & School Visit
For the next 2 days we get to experience the local island way of life, with our Islander Experience. After breakfast, we join our local guides on their boat for 2 days of exploring islands and the surrounding areas of Port Barton.
Your first stop will be making a special visit to one of four local schools, where you'll have the chance to interact with the students and see firsthand the impact of your support. We encourage guests to bring school supplies, which can either be pre-brought or purchased the day before in Puerto Princesa. Guests can also make monetary donations that will go towards things like building kitchens, canteens, and sporting equipment. If the school is on holiday or it's a weekend, we'll visit the local day care center instead. Please note the school visit may take place on day 4 or day 5.
In the evening we get together around the fire at our very own private beach camp. Perfect! Don’t worry about food either as our local guides will have everything covered with feasts of grilled fish, pork, rice, vegetables and fruit. In the evening you will sleep in tents directly on the beach in paradise.
Day 5: Beach Camp, more snorkelling, waterfalls & fun
Today's day two of your island hopping adventures. You'll continue to enjoy snorkelling around coral reefs & alongside turtles, shower in jungle waterfalls, exploring tiny islands and just taking it all in.
Please note - activities on day 4 and 5 may alternate depending on each departure.
Day 6: To El Nido, Paradise
After breakfast, take some time to appreciate your spectacular surroundings before we then hop into a van and head up on our way to El Nido. When we arrive you will see why Palawan was named the most beautiful island in the world. Surrounded by islands and towering cliffs, El Nido is a secret paradise we are lucky enough to share. Once you pick your jaws up off the ground, we will check in to the funkiest hostel in Palawan. This slick hostel looks more like a boutique hotel than a backpackers! Settle in, then head to our favourite beach restaurant in the evening for food and fun with your One Life family.
Day 7: El Nido, Filipino Cultural Day
Get ready to immerse yourself in unique Filipino culture! We'll take a short jungle hike to learn about the flora and fauna that grow in the lush rainforest before arriving at our exclusive jungle hut for a fun-filled day. Today's activities range from cooking authentic Filipino food, climbing coconut trees, traditional Filipino stick fighting, coconut shaving, learning Filipino dances and children's games, coconut leaf weaving, and more. Afterwards, you can take the optional zipline and enjoy a relaxing time on the stunning Las Cabanas Beach. It's an exhilarating adventure of flying between two islands over the ocean, followed by a day of relaxation that you're not likely to forget!
Day 8: El Nido, Island Hopping
This morning we board our boat to take us around all the spectacular, tiny islands in the bay. You will explore the most beautiful islands and the bluest waters you have ever seen. Snorkel with your new friends and feast on the freshly prepared food on board. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Day 9: El Nido Town, Canopy Walk & Massage
Today we do a short canopy walk up to the famous cliffs overlooking El Nido to get the best view of incredible bay and Cadlao Island. After all that exercise, you’ll need some chill-out time! That’s why we include a traditional Filipino massage near the beach to help ease those muscles. Take your time today to relax and enjoy your surroundings.
TIME TO SAY GOODBYE!
Sadly, all good things must come to an end! On the final day of your tour, you will have an included private van transfer back to Puerto Princesa. The van departs from Spin at 7 AM.
Please note, guests flying out of Puerto Princesa should not book a flight before 3 PM to ensure ample time for the transfer.
If you prefer to fly back to Manila from the small airport in El Nido, you can use the Air Swift website to book your flight. Though a bit more expensive, this option allows you to avoid travelling back to Puerto Princesa for your flight.
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