I have lived and travelled in the Philippines for 12 months, I have used my experiences and knowledge of the islands to plan a badass 1 month route for first-time visitors to the Philippines.
This itinerary is designed for those 'always on the move' travellers who are happy to spend less time sitting and more time seeing.
This is a packed out post with lots of information, before you start reading, make yourself a cuppa, get comfy and find a notepad and pen.
Itinerary overview
Natural wonders & UNESCO protected heritage
Island hopping galore
Best beaches in the world
World Class diving and WW2 Ship wrecks
Island living
Philippines best sunset spot
Night life
Spectacular coral reefs
Whale Sharks and Sea turtles
Philippines best Waterfalls
Secret locations
Pro tips
With over 7000 islands, planning your trip around the Philippines can be an overwhelming task for even the most experienced globetrotters. See my posts about the Philippines to take some of the guesswork out of your planning. Whilst doing your pre-flight research it will become obvious that covering everything you would like to see in the Philippines will take around 3 months or more.
That doesn't mean you cant enjoy its world-class beaches and dive sites, stunning islands and unique landscapes. It only means you'll have to come back.
Day 1 - Arrive in Manila
Welcome to the Philippines!
Getting from the airport into Manila
Most international flights will be landing at terminal 1 at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). The best ways to get to your hotel from the airport are by UBE Express Bus, Grab taxi’s, or private transfer.
Personally, I would use Grab. There are metered taxis outside the airport but the queue is usually very long and it’s more expensive.
Alternatively, you can order a private transfer at the airport kiosks inside but expect to pay more.
If your hotel does private picks ups then this is by far the quickest and easiest option after a long flight, worth the extra cost.
Where to Stay in Manila
So where is the best place to stay? If I was you, I would choose Makati but more specifically the Poblacion area. Makati is very clean, well maintained and safe, also its central to the best restaurants, bars, shopping, nightlife and convenience stores with heaps of hotel options.
For a more detailed look on Where to Stay in Manila check out my post.
Day 2 - Intramuros, Manila
There's no need to rush out of the busy city so why not take a tour around gorgeous Intramuros on a bamboo bike.
Historic Intramuros, nestled within todays restless Metro Manila, is a walled city filled with Spanish-era architecture including the Manila Cathedral, Fort Santiago, and San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Over half a square km in size, Intramuros today is a flashback to past with its cobblestone streets and conserved ruins.
If its your first time to Manila then its worth reading my other post: Everything you need to know about Manila
Day 3 - Fly to Bohol, Chocolate hills
Fly from Manila Airport to Bohol Island - Tagbilaran City Airport. Flight time is about 1 hour 40 minutes.
Bohol is known for many interesting tourist attractions. The most iconic is the Chocolate Hills in Carmen. Comprised of over 1,260 hills covering an area greater than 50 sq km, the dome shaped hills are made of limestone covered in green grass that turn chocolate brown during the dry season. Its a very unique landscape thats for sure. Make sure you climb to the viewing platform to get a fab view of rolling terrain. Entrance to the area is100 Pesos per person.
Other famous attractions in Bohol include The tarsier sanctuary in Corella and the Loboc River, long known for its riverboat cruise. Covering all the attractions in Bohol is going to be time consuming task as they are scattered throughout various spots on the island, so transport will be long.
If you are really interested in covering the countryside of Bohol I would recommend using a tour company to make your life much easier. You’ll be taken to Bohol’s top tourist sights in a chauffeured car or van. Choosing your tour company will be up to your preferences, different operators will have slight variations to this tour. For example, lunch & guides. Expect to pay around 2,000 Pesos for 2 people, excluding entrance fees.
Day 4 - Panglao island
Travel from Carmen in Bohol to Panglao Island on a bus for 150 Pesos, the journey will take around 2 hours 30 minutes and runs 5 times per day. Or if you didn't do any attractions in Bohol and there for didn't end up in Carmen, you can ride in a taxi to Dao Integrated Bus Terminal if that is closer to you. This bus to Panglao Island is more regular, running every 30 minutes and costs only 50 Pesos.
Day 5 - Panglao island, Alona Beach
The Alona Beach is a 1.5 km stretch of white sand beach and a hit with tourist travelling in Bohol province. A busy but beautiful landscape of white sand and rocky cliffs. The beach has a near by house reef, where corals and colourful fish can be seen without diving equipment. It is a popular scuba-diving and snorkelling spot.
Eating at Alona Beach
Choose from a variety of restaurants lining end to end on the beach. Pizza, Swiss, Italian, Thai, native dishes and more are all available at reasonable prices. Alona Beach is not known for crazy nightlife. Although busy, in general it is a quiet and romantic place at night. Restaurants set up with candle-lit tables on the beach with live acoustic music.
Bohol Bee Farm
You might like to check out Bohol Bee Farm. This super cute place that combines accommodation with gorgeous organic food, ice cream, local handicrafts and bees. Set up on a cliff top with steps down to the sea.
| Read More |
Day 6 - Oslob, Whale Sharks and Tumalog Falls
When researching online, you may notice that getting from Panglao Island to Oslob is not possible unless you go to Cebu City and down, but worry not. There are boats that will take you across the short stretch of water. Head to Alona Beach and choose from one of the many boat operators wanting to take you.
Oslob is a small, nondescript town in Southern Cebu that’s been garnering infamy over the past 5 years for its controversial practice of whale shark feeding. Located about 120 km south of Cebu City, travel time here is just over three hours by bus.
Whale Sharks
If you're thinking about tripping to Oslob to swim with the Whale Sharks then I strongly recommend you take the time to educate yourself on the Whale Shark Controversy first.
I won’t get into it in this post, although I will quickly mention, the whale shark feeding at Oslob has become more streamlined with tourists from around the world, to the Philippines in recent years. The whole thing is chaotic, with large groups of people getting too close to the magnificent animals and some even touching them. Although I admittedly enjoyed being in the water with them, the experience is very artificial and in refection very upsetting, to be honest.
I have done this, so I am in absolutely no position to judge. If you still wish to go ahead:
In Oslob, they feed the whale sharks in the morning 8am-11am. There is a maximum of 2,000 permits issued per day, so it’s important to get there early. I recommend 7am, which will probably mean spending the night in Oslob prior. Once you have paid your fee, you will go through a quick briefing before joining the hundreds and taking a short ride out to the interaction area, just a few meters from the shore. Once in position, you will be able to jump straight into the water where the fish will come so close they may even hit into you, you can snorkel around, staying close to your boat for approximately 15 minutes.
Where to stay in Oslob
Check out Stay N Save. Just walking distance, up the hill from the Whale sharks feeding and other ocean facing restaurants. Try to book yourself into one of their air-conditioned tree houses and take the steep steps on the property to water for snorkelling. This place is no luxury but very friendly, cheap and the views are sensational. We bought some beers from the local shop and wrote in our travel journal until the sunset, it was really gorgeous.
| Book here |
Suggestion: You may consider not staying in Oslob at all but instead just day tripping here from Moalboal (a later destination in the itinerary), its about 2 hours each way on a bus.
Tumalog Falls
Nearby to the whale shark attraction is Tumalog Falls. If it has rained recently then this very impressive waterfall is a mystical place, locals believe the waterfall is protected by spirits and pixies. At the base of the waterfalls is a waist deep pool of cloudy blue water, its a stunning place to cool off. We took some Pringles and a blanket and sat on the rocks in the afternoon, its the perfect place to chill in the middle of the jungle.
Day 7 - Sumilon island
From Oslob, you will need to go to Oslob Port, ask any local driver that you're going Sumilon island and they will know where to take you. Here you will find small pump boats ready to shuttle you across the water to Sumilon Island. You can do a day trip to the island, to enjoy its gorgeous water, white sand and marine life. Or you can do as I did and stay at Bluewater resort, the only resort on the island.
Bluewater Resort offer loads of different accomodation options, however I would highly recommend the air-conditioned glamping tent accommodation. If you stay on the island then your booking includes a roundtrip boat transfer from mainland.
| Read more |
The island is famous throughout the world for two reasons. Its diving and its sandbar.
Diving in Sumilon Island
The island’s diving sites are famous for their superb visibility, stunning reefs and abundance of varied tropical marine species that provide an ideal and memorable dive. There are occasional sightings of black tip sharks during dives. Sumilon has four major dive sites:
Garden Eel Plaza,
Nikki’s Wall
Coral Landscape
Julie’s Rock.
Day 8 - Dumaguete
Getting to Dumaguete from Sumilon island or Oslob is very straightforward. From Sumilon island you will need to go back to the mainland port called Liloan Port and jump on the ferry to Sibulan Port. The ferries run hourly, the boat ride takes 30 minutes and will cost 700 Pesos. Sibulan Port is about 20 minutes north from Dumaguete town so you will need to get a trike or jeepney into town.
Day 9 - Siquijor Island
For everything you need to know about Siquijor Island, check out my post.
Travel from Dumaguete to Siquijor Island
Take a ferry from the main marina in Dumaguete, located just north of Rizal Boulevard. The FastCraft boat runs approximately 4 trips per day, takes 45mins, costs 250pesos/single fare.
There is a timetable, but the schedule is unreliable so it’s better to research or ask someone on the day you want to travel. There will be locals hanging around the terminal entrance to help you get a ticket, that’s the easiest way. There is a 15P terminal fee and if you have a big bag they will charge you to take it on the boat, around 80-100P. The boat is air conditioned and perfectly fine.
When you arrive at the port in Siquijor, there is a 12km journey to San Juan, assuming you’re staying there, or around. You can rent a scooter on the island for 300 Pesos/day. If you prefer you can take a tricycle from the jetty for a set price of 250 Pesos.
Where to Stay on Siquijor Island
For ideas on Where to Stay on Siquijor Island, check out my post.
For ideas on Where to Eat on Siquijor Island, check out my post.
Budget
-The Bruce | Read More | Check prices on Agoda |
-Tropical FunTaSea | Check prices on Agoda |
Mid- Range
-Mandala Tribe TreeHouse | Check prices on Booking |
Luxury
-U Story | Read More |
-Coco Grove Beach Resort | Read More | Check prices on Agoda |
Day 10 & 11 - Siquijor, Island tour
Everything can easily be found on google maps or simple sign posts if you want the freedom of renting your own scooter. If you prefer you can ask any tricycle driver for an island tour which will cost you 1000 Pesos for the day, you can tell him where you want to go or let him take you around.
Cambugahay Falls
Cambugahay Falls is possibly my favourite waterfall in the Philippines, it has four massive pools on three different tiers, each with big tarzan rope swings. This is a tourist hot spot and is usually the first place people head to on their day out, so prepare for it to be a busy, having said that, we arrived at midday and it wasn't as packed as we were expecting. It's easy to get to and entrance is FREE. This place is awesome and I highly recommend it.
Paliton Beach.
Nice white sand beach with very few people. I would walk east of the rocks to discover more secret beaches, there are vendors around selling cold water. High tide swimming only and watch for sea urchins. Take a snorkel and mask to see more of the reef.
Day 12 - Apo Island Day Trip
If you're keen on seeing turtles, snorkelling or scuba diving then you should take a day trip to Apo Island. Or you could even stay a night.
Regardless of whether you are staying at Coco Grove Beach Resort on Siquijor island or not, its possible to jump on their day boat trip to Apo Island or they can arrange an overnight stay on their sister hotel on Apo Island.
The Day trip to Apo Island will cost 1,950 Pesos per person. Prices includes: boat ride; marine park fee; snorkelling guide and a buffet lunch on the beach. Note that the trip requires a minimum of 12 people to book on or the boat wont run. Departure is 7:30 am, returns at 5:00 pm.
If you would like to do a dive then it will cost 3,500 Pesos per person for 1 dive, including equipment. Quite pricey if you ask me.
Get in touch with Coco Grove for more details on the Apo Island Trip | Read More |
Day 13 - Moalboal
Located on the west coast of Cebu, Moalboal is one of my favourite spots in the Philippines. With heaps of activities there is so much to keep you busy.
If you love scuba diving then Moalboal is within minutes to the world-class dives sites like Pescador Island and an airplane wreck. For non-divers there is a house reef that is excellent for snorkelling with giant schools of fish and turtles close to the shore. You could also try out the sardine trip and swim with hundreds of thousands of sardines in the open water, its really crazy actually.
There are two travel options from Siquijor Island to Moalboal
Option 1:
Travel in a trike to Larena Port on Siquijor Island, from your accomodation with may take about 30 minutes and cost up to 300 Pesos.
From Larena Port, Take the ferry to Liloan Port in Cebu. There is only 1 boat/ day so speak with locals to see when it is leaving. The ride costs 70 Pesos.
Once in Liloan, walk the short distance to Liloan bus stop, approximately 1k. Ask a local to help you find it.
Jump on a bus heading to Bato, about an 10 minute ride and costing roughly 80 Pesos.
Once in Bato, catch a bus all the way to Moalboal, takes 1 hour and 40 minutes and costs 120 Pesos.
Option 2:
Use your return ticket to travel by boat back to Dumaguete first.
Once you arrive in Dumaguete, sadly you are at the wrong ferry terminal. You will been to get to Sibulan port about 20 minutes North, in a trike or jeepney.
From Sibulan Port you will need to get a boat to Santander Port in Cebu, they leave roughly every hour, it takes about 30 minutes and costs 70 Pesos.
Once in Santander, you have to get a tricycle to reach Bato Bus Terminal. Take a bus to Moalboal, travel time is around 2 hours and it will cost you around 90 Pesos.
Where to stay in Moalboal:
Most of the accomodation is on Panagsam Beach. A lively area on the water front and littered with dive hostels and restaurants. Most visitors to Moalboal will find themselves here. While there isn't much of a beach (it was washed away in a typhoon in 1984), there are a few of places to relax. If busy and loud accomodation isn't your style, and you're looking for something more romantic, you may want to check out accomodation options at the quieter White Beach just 15 minutes North of Panagsam Beach. Just remember that if you want more dinner options, bars and water activities, you may have to travel by trike to Panagsam Beach daily.
Accomodation suggestions for White Beach:
Club Serena Resort on White Beach. This accomodation is slightly nicer than anywhere else and it has hotel facilities like a pool with day beds and has a nice ocean facing restaurant. They have plenty of room options at varying prices, starting at 3,000 Pesos. If you are travelling in a group of 3 or 4 then I would recommend booking Treehouse 1. They also have a Dive Shop called Aquaholics, where you can arrange all your water activities and hire gear.
| Read more | Book with Agoda |
Barefoot White Beach Resort, a budget accomodation option on White Beach. They are very basic double rooms with a bathroom but you're right on the beach and you have the option of using Club Serena Resort's restaurant just next door. You'll probably be spending your day out doing activities so just somewhere clean to crash at night is ideal.
Day 14 - Moalboal, Kawasan falls
Kawasan Falls is a Trio of picturesque waterfalls into natural swimming pools & lagoons, accessible via jungle trails.
Promise me you won't miss out on a canyoneering trip through to Kawasan Falls. Its absolutely the most fun i've had in the Philippines. When you arrive in Moalboal you will find lots of friendly locals asking if you're interested in a guide for the canyoneering trip, Expect to hand over 1500 Pesos for the tour and expect it to be the best money you've ever spent.
I would highly recommend getting a guide for the trip rather than tagging along with a big tour group, this way you have more freedom to slow down or speed up, and you have the opportunity to enjoy the whole canyon to yourself.
There are heaps of jumps along the way, starting at 5 meters and finishing at a whopping 15 meters high!
The turquoise blue of Kawasan Falls, so dense and rich is shocking the first time you see it. Its really stunning. However, this pool is much more crowded than the higher pools on the canyoneering route because many people just walk in off the road and pay Kawasan Falls entrance fee of 20 Pesos.
Day 15 - Travel to Cebu city
Travel from Moalboal to Cebu City via a direct bus operated by Ceres Liner, departing from Moalboal Bus Station and arriving at Cebu South Bus Terminal. Services depart hourly, and operate every day. By road the distance is 88.7 km and the journey takes approximately 2hours 20minutes.
Day 16 - Flight to Boracay
Boracay has everything you could want from a small island, from quiet spots of solitude to busy bars.
The easiest way to go to Cebu from Boracay is by air. Attempting any other way would mean multiple bus and ferry rides which equates to a very long and arduous journey, not what you want.
Flying from Cebu City (Mactan - Cebu International Airport) The two most convenient and practical main gateways is Caticlan Airport or Kalibo. Cebu is located approximately 500 kilometres away from Boracay and flights generally lasts about 1 hour 15 minutes. There are numerous flights daily, for this itinerary I would recommend booking a return flight.
There are currently three commercial airlines that regularly serve the Boracay-to-Cebu route from Caticlan airport: Air Asia is usually the most economical option. Not far behind is Cebu Pacific and another is Philippine Airlines.
When arriving at Caticlan you will take a transfer airport to Caticlan Jetty Port, a small boat terminal ferrying passengers to Boracay Island. Shared mini buses are regular and widely available from the airport exit.
In 2018 the Filipino government closed access to Boracay for six months due to a large scale pollution problem. Since reopening the island has a list of new regulations that include a limited number of tourists per day. This means that when you arrive at the terminal they will require to see your hotel booking, I recommend printing it out if possible.
A day time boat ticket is 25 Pesos and a night time boat is 30P. There is also a terminal fee of 100 Pesos & environmental fee of 75 Pesos.
A boat depends every 5-10 minutes and the ride takes only 10 minutes.
Pro Tip: If flights to Caticlan are expensive or you fail to book a direct flight from Boracay to Cebu, no worries because there is another option. You can choose to fly to Kalibo International airport instead, located approximately 75 kilometres south from Caticlan Jetty Port. Air tickets for the Kalibo to Cebu route are generally cheaper so it is ideal for those on a budget.
There are still many regular shared mini bus companies departing directly to Boracay. The mini bus and boat ticket combined will cost 250 Pesos from Kalibo.
Day 17 - Day in Boracay
White Beach
The whole island is only 7km long and 500m wide, you can shun buses and taxis here and explore the whole island by foot or trike. The centrepiece of the island is White Beach, lined from one end to the other with hotels, restaurants, bars and dive shops which backup a few blocks deep. After an incredible, unmissable sunset, live music breaks out in most places along the beach.
Diniwind Beach
Make sure you walk north along White Beach, all the way to the end and pass through a small hole in the headland, which opens onto Diniwind Beach, a more secluded beach with not a lot going on, you should find it more relaxing. Once on Diniwind beach sat the iconic Spider House hostel but sadly closed down in recent months. Another large luxury hotel was famously burnt down in a fire, dramatically reducing the amount of people who make their way to the beach.
Bulabog Beach
The other main alternative to White Beach is Bulabog Beach just a 500m walk across from White Beach, famous for windsurfing and kitesurfing. This side of the island is noted for its chilled out community vibe. If you're up for it then take the opportunity to get lessons from an expert.
Pro Tip: It's wise to avoid Boracay during the holiday season: Easter, Christmas and New Year and Chinese New Year because of the influx of visitors.
Day 18 - Boracay to Cebu City
Leaving Boracay is very straight forward, just return the way you came. There are always plenty of minibus transfers waiting to take you when you arrive at Caticlan Jetty Terminal.
Use your return ticket to fly back to Cebu City from Boracay. If I was you, I would book the latest flight out of Boracay as possible so that you can enjoy another full day here. Alternatively, if you are able to time it well then you may be choose to fly early back to Cebu City so that you can go straight out of Cebu City and fly Coron therefore missing a stop over. Up to you.
Day 19 - Fly to Coron
Fly from Cebu City to Busuanga Airport. When you arrive, the local taxi drivers will have been following your flight schedule so they will be waiting to take passengers to Coron Town.
Where to stay in Coron
For convince the best place to stay is in Coron Town on the island of Busuanga. Its not anything pretty and there isn't much to do here, its mainly just a port to get you out to the main draw which is the islands and dive sites.
The mains power goes in and out throughout Coron without any warning so if you like AC, electricity and lights then you'll want to choose somewhere with a back up generator.
Here are some accomodation suggestions:
Backpacker & dorm rooms:
- Hop Hostel | Read More | Check Prices on Agoda |
Mid-range:
- The funny lion * I recommend this one. | Read More | Check Prices on Agoda |
- Corto del Mar Hotel | Read More | Check Prices on Agoda |
Luxury:
- The Two Seasons Resort & Spa | Read More | Check Prices on Agoda |
Day 20 - Coron, Calamian Islands tour
Coron is home to a number of unique and breathtaking sights that you wont find anywhere else in the world.
You may be confused whilst researching Coron. There are technically two Coron Philippines, one is the name of the largest town on Busuanga island and another Coron is a smaller island 30-minutes offshore from Coron Town. Coron makes up the eastern half of Busuanga Island.
Get on a boat during the day and explore the Calamian Islands. There are a handful of tours avaliable in town, where you will join other travellers on a boat to see some of the top site.
Prices for tours are around 650 Pesos to 1,200 Pesos including lunch. Typically leaving at 8am and returning at 4pm-ish.
Kayangan Lake
The crystal-clear waters of Lake Kayangan are hidden in between the mountain walls. Known as one of the clearest lakes in Asia this is one of the most stunning places your eyes will see. To reach Kayangan Lake, its an easy 10 minute climb up the face of the mountain then walk down into the lake.
Twin Lagoon
Twin Lagoon is a wide expanse of turquoise water that is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. These lagoons are separated by a huge limestone wall with the only way to get between the two is to swim through the narrow passage in the wall.
Malcapuya Beach
If you like the sound of turquoise water lapping up onto fine white sand then this place fits the description. Due to only a few small hotels on the island then except to have this place all to yourself. To get to this beach you can take a day tour with other people as part of the Beach Tour day trip bookable in Coron Town.
Coron Island
Some of the best things to see and do in Coron are on Coron Island, don't get this confused with Busuanga island with Coron Town on. The best stuff is a boat ride away from where you are staying.
Baracuda Lake
Next door to Kayangan Lake is another seriously clear and beautiful lake called Barracuda Lake. Search for this lake if you seek a quieter experience than the more popular Kayangan Lake. As well as fewer crowds this place has some cool features such as hot springs.
Mt. Tapyas
If you're like me, and some days you just dont feel like getting on another boat, then take the climb to the summit of Mt. Tapyas. Not sure it qualifies to be called a mountain but the view at the top is worth the hike. Check out views overlooking Coron Town and Coron Island in the distance.
Day 21 - Coron, Scuba diving the WW2 ship wrecks
The question is, how much do you love scuba diving?
If you have the time and desire then it could easily take weeks to complete the dive sights in Coron. The most popular sites here are the fleet of sunken Japanese warships. The sites are about 1 hour boat from Coron Town port and its typical to dive 2 or 3 tanks per trip. This will depend on which dive company you choose, so have a shop around for what you would prefer.
Expect to pay around 3000 Pesos for 2 tanks & 3,500 Pesos for 3.
I recommend diving with Dive with Corto Divers. The team are very knowledgeable and they really do care that you have a good experience. They have nice dive boats and a nice lunch is included with dives | Read More | Check their Prices |
Pro Tip: If scuba diving isn't for you but you would still like to see some of the wrecks then Lusong Gunboat is location just below the surface and is shallow enough that you can snorkel it. The ship has been sunk for over 70 years so it has become its own unique environment for coral and sea life.
Day 22 - Ferry to El Nido
The cheapest and easiest way to get from Coron to El Nido is by taking a ferry.
The boat company is called Montenegro Lines. Ferries departs from Coron Port to El Nido ferry terminal.
You can buy a ticket in Coron town at the 12GO office or you can book your ferry online with 12GO in advance if you wish, however, you WILL need to go to the main 12GO office in Coron Town to print your ticket, at a cost of 50 Pesos per ticket. Another option is to ask your hotel if they print it for you.
A ferry ticket will cost 1,760 Pesos per person and the trip takes between 3 - 4.5 hours.
Pro Tip: Wear a t-shirt incase the aircon is broken but bring a jumper incase its not and they blast it, brrrr! Sometimes they run out of cold water so bring your own. There is a toilet on the boat but bring tissue paper. Ferries depart at 12 but can often be running late, just bare this in mind and keep cool when travelling. Seas can be rough and so if you're anything like me and suffer from sea sickness, take a travel sickness pill.
| Book your boat online with 12GO Asia | - Ferries do not run everyday, use this website link to check if there is a ferry departing on your chosen day of travel.
Palawan is stunning. It’s no surprise it was voted the best island in the world for the second year in a row.
El Nido, without a doubt, has some of the most beautiful and unforgettable scenery you will encounter. I could easily say this will be the highlight of your trip. This cluster of islands is off the northern tip of the Palawan Island. The landscape is full of dramatic limestone rock formations and surrounded by diamond clear blue waters.
....Are you sold yet or what?
Las Cabanas Beach
While most of the best beaches in El Nido are reachable only by boat or kayak, Las Cabanas beach is accessible by a short walk or trike. Make sure you come here to watch the sunset over the incredible, panoramic landscape.
Pro Tip: You'll walk down a set of step onto Marimegmeg beach, you'll see around the bay the bars of Las Cabanas beach, pick one and have a drink but then KEEP WALKING, follow the beach around the corner, past Las Cabanas beach resort, the crowds disappear and the beaches become paradise all to yourself.
Warning: Keep in mind
Over recent years, there have been a number of reports that visitors to El Nido are suffering from diarrhoea and vomiting. This is not a reason to avoid El Nido, however I would recommend keeping a very close eye on where your water is coming from. As much as I HATE single use plastic, I would advice drinking only bottled water whilst staying in El Nido, avoid ice in drinks and don't use the tap water to brush your teeth.
If you do get ill whilst travelling then try eating a high fibre meal, such as brown rice and drink lots of fluids.
Day 23 - El Nido, Bacuit Archipelago tour
You'd be absolutely crazy to not tour the Bacuit Archipelago whilst your staying in El Nido. As you walk the busy streets you will notice half the town is selling tour's A,B,C,D & E. Each letter refers to a different itinerary and the most popular are A and C. Amongst the guides, most of the prices and itineraries will be the same so it doesn't matter who you choose to go with. The tours are a full day, typically 9am-4pm, with about 5 different locations including a big, delicious lunch on the beach, set up by your boat captain.
Pro Tip:
Find a boat that leaves earlier, 8am...7am?!
Ask if you can do the trip in reverse order, that way you will beat the crowds and save the best till last.
My highly recommended spots in the Bacuit Archipelago:
Big Lagoon.
Renowned for its clear turquoise water and spectacular coral reefs, this is where you'll jump out for kayaking. Big Lagoon is famous for its tall karsts enclosing the pristine water, the backdrop is simple unbelievable!
Tip: Don't hang around, be the first person from your tour to get into the lagoon, that way you'll beat the crowds that sometimes build up here.
Small Lagoon
Small Lagoon is El Nido’s paradise, with imposing vertical walls of stone with a lagoon of shallow water, in the shape of a nearly perfect circle, inside. Jump in for great snorkelling or hire a paddle board.
Secret Beach
Ehhh....not so secret anymore. Hidden by sensational rock formations that conceal the beach, nothing to do here but relax and swim. How awful?
Papaya Beach
Walk the fine, white sand on Papaya beach, secluded by tall limestone cliffs. Another location with unbeatable panoramic views.
Seven Commando Island
Another well known spot for snorkelling and gorgeous marine life. Named after 7 Japanese commandos lived for a period of time near the end of WWII. This beach is slightly bigger and most tours finish here because it’s close to El Nido town, there's also with vendors pitched up to offer cold drinks.
As of 2019 Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon have been removed from the regular Tour A and will now require a premium tour at extra cost. Each lagoon will also include an extra P200 environmental fee and you won’t be able to visit both in one day. The number of visitors has been strictly limited to avoid the over crowding issue, this is good and bad. I would recommend booking asap when you arrive in El Nido to secure a permit.
Day 24 - El Nido, Nacpan beach
If you're a beach lover, then without a doubt you'll want to spend your entire day on the secluded Nacpan beach. Located about 45 minutes from El Nido centre, there will be lots of drivers offering to take you.
Blessed with a serene tropical setting, it's a perfect place to chill, walk along the fine sandy beach, and enjoy its clear blue waters, sip a coconut and live the dream.
The beach is so large that it never feels packed. You may notice there isn't much shade on this wide beach, I would recommended hiring a sun lounger with an umbrella to escape the mid-day heat.
Where to eat and drink on Nacpan beach
There is one famous hostel on the beach called Mad Monkey Hostel, stay in one of their dorm rooms, at an affordable price, if you love to drink and socialise with younger backpackers. If not, its still a great place for food and sundowners. | Book here |
Day 25 - Travel to Port Barton
Catch the bus from El Nido to Port Barton, it takes roughly 4 hours 30 minutes and will cost between 650 Pesos - 700 Pesos.
Toby and Thelmas Island Camping
Without any hesitation, you NEED to book yourself into Toby and Thelmas Island Camping Adventure and spend at least two nights. This tucked away paradise is slightly outside of Port Barton village, about 30 minutes by boat.
If you like mini private islands, great healthy food, campfires, searching for hidden waterfalls and watching the sunrise from a paddle board whilst turtles swim underneath you, then you'll probably like it here.
A luxury tent costs 2000 Pesos per night per person. Including three hearty and delicious meals and all sports activities.
The private beach is only accessible by a small boat from Port Barton Beach, collection will be organised by the Campsite when you book.
Day 26 & 27: Toby and Thelmas /Port Barton
Port Barton is a very small village on the north-west coast of the island of Palawan. It's about 23km north-west of Roxas if you're looking at a map. I love this place, its another favourite of mine without a doubt. Port Barton is a quieter, smaller, and much more laid-back version of El Nido. The activities you can do here are very similar but for about half the price and a quarter of the crowds.
Fortunately, due to its remote location and distance from an airport, sleepy Port Barton is not as popular or progressively developed as anywhere else on this itinerary. The village doesn't attract those seeking luxury instead its a place for adventurous travellers who appreciate the rural and relaxed atmosphere of quite beaches and peaceful evenings.
The houses along the beach front have turned into small resorts or restaurants but the interior of the village is still mostly untouched.
You should know:
There is no electricity, except from 17:30 until midnight.
There are no banks or ATMs. There are only ATMs in Puerto Princesa and El Nido, so it may also be wise to bring extra cash with you. Very few businesses accept credit card payments.
There are no doctors or hospitals. There is a small medical centre.
There are no five star hotels.
The village is small so you can easily walk around.
Where to stay in Port Barton
If you didn't manage get into Toby and Thelmas then don't fear, there are still plenty of accomodation options for you in Port Barton.
Pro Tip: Alot of accomodation, especially the budget options wont be listed online. On the beach there are about a dozen places to stay, all offering cottages of various quality and price. I advice to just show up at the beach and pick one that suites you. You can go to Jambalaya Café when you arrive, located south of the beach, which has a space for "free backpack storage" so you can dump your bags and have a walk around, they also offer an unbiased accommodation guide for you and other tips.
Otherwise, here are my suggestions:
Deepmoon Resort | Read more | Check prices on Agoda |
Asuan beach front cottages | Read more | Check prices on Agoda |
Scuba Diving in Port Barton
Fancy more Scuba? Or Maybe you could learn to dive in this relaxed village?
There is one dive shop in Port Barton called Aquaholics' run by Keith Dudley. Located in the centre of the beach next to summer homes. This diving centre has a highly recommended diving instructor named Martyn who holds more than 30 years experience as a scuba diver and free diver Instructor. You could even learn a speciality course such as Wreck and Deep diving.
Day 28 - Port Barton, Island hopping tour
Port Barton cannot be discounted when it comes to natural attractions and island activities. Like in El Nido, there are four kinds of island hopping tours in Port Barton, namely; Tour A, B, C and D. Though, quiet honestly they are all essentially the same tour but using different photos? They all have common islands and snorkelling spots to visit. The tour package costs more or less 800 Pesos per person including lunch and all other fees. The tour starts at 9:00 AM and ends at 4:00 PM. Just take a walk through the village and you wont struggle to find a tour operator.
Try hunt out this hidden waterfall in the jungle!
Day 29 - Puerto Princesa - The underground River
The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is a protected area of the Philippines. Located in the Saint Paul Mountain Range on the western coast of the island, about 80 kilometres north of the city centre of Puerto Princesa. Its the longest navigable subterranean river in the world, the Puerto Princesa Underground River stretches for approximately 8.2 kms, though the tour will only take you as far as the first 1.5.
To be totally honest, I missed out on going to the Underground River in Puerto Princessa because the I was midly enthused about the idea of dark underground spaces, over flowing with tourists and smelling of damp bat poo, despite having heard stories of how magnificent it is. I guess thats because i'm more of a blue skies, white sand beach kinda gal. Anyway, the underground river was explored but Jacques Cousteau himself and has officially been declared at one of the:
7 New Wonders of Nature.
The river encompasses one of the world’s most impressive cave systems, featuring limestone karst landscapes, pristine natural beauty, and intact old-growth forests and represents a significant habitat for biodiversity conservation. I think it might be worth checking out after all? Im kicking myself a little.
Pro Tip: As expected, visitors to the Underground River has spiked with around 1,200 people requesting a permit daily. To manage this, you’re required to secure a permit before being allowed to enter. Only a maximum of 900 are granted, so if you can secure one in advance, either through your hotel or travel agent, that would be ideal. They’re very strict about this so you need to come prepared.
Day 30 - Home Time
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