Philippines Island Explorer
Days:
13
Starts:
Manila
Finishes:
El Nido
Meals:
12B 6L 2D
From:
$1999
Days:
13
Starts:
Manila
Finishes:
El Nido
Meals:
12B 6L 2D
From:
$1999
From endless white beaches to majestic emerald cliffs, the Philippines boasts stunning natural beauty to entice sun seekers, adventure junkies and culture lovers alike! To show off the best of this island nation we’ve created the Philippines Island Explorer, a 13 day adventure that will see you snorkelling pristine waters, hanging out with locals, exploring untouched islands on a multi-day boat expedition, and much more! Oh, and did we mention that you’ll be doing all this with a knowledgeable group leader, plus an instant crew of new mates? The trip of a lifetime just got even better…
From beachside hotels to traditional Filipino huts on remote islands!
Check it out hereVisit iconic waterfalls, explore pristine beaches, snorkel in emerald green waters & more!
See the full listAll transport during your adventure is sorted, including internal flights, ferries, tricycles, minibuses & more!
You'll get an awesome group leader from the moment you step off the plane to provide 24/7 support during & after your trip.
12 Breakfasts, 6 Lunch & 2 Dinners
We accurately measure the CO2 emissions of your tour and 100% offset them through planting the required amount of trees.
MANILA
Kamusta and welcome to Manila! On arrival in the bustling capital we’ll meet you at the airport to take you to the hotel. You’ll have plenty of time to recover from the flight before meeting up with your new travel crew and getting excited for the adventures to come.
MOALBOAL
Today we travel to Cebu via a short flight and ferry. We’ll then get to drive up the coast, stopping at some of Cebu’s most impressive waterfalls and getting those classic Philippines Insta snaps!
MOALBOAL
Today you’re in for a treat - an adrenaline-pumping canyoneering experience at Kawasan Waterfalls! This activity will have the brave of us not just looking, but LEAPING into the unbelievably blue pools of the falls below.
MOALBOAL
This morning we’ll venture out to witness Moalboal’s famous Sardine Run, a natural phenomenon worthy of a David Attenborough documentary. You’ll get the chance to snorkel amongst millions of sardines in crystal waters, truly an experience like no other. We’ll also keep our fingers crossed for sea turtles! The afternoon is yours to explore more of Moalboal, or simply relax by the beach or pool.
CORON
On the way to our second flight of the trip from Cebu City we’ll stop at Simala Church. This castle-like monastery is the perfect place for us to gain insight into the Spanish colonisation of the Philippines. After our flight to Busuanga Island we’ll check in to our accom.
CORON
Today you’ll get to experience the best snorkelling Coron has to offer! Swim amongst schools of fish in the iconic turquoise water and see why Coron is absolute paradise! Tonight we'll get ready to experience the vibrant nightlife in Coron.
CORON
Relax by the pool or wander Coron Town, the morning is in your hands! This afternoon we’ll lace up our sneakers and take a short hike up Mount Tapyas to be rewarded with incredible views of the bay. We’ll then head to Maquinit Hot Springs for some relaxation, taking in a glorious sunset as we soak in the naturally warm saltwater pools.
CORON
Today we set off on an unforgettable 3-day expedition from Coron to El Nido. This trip will take us far from the usual tourist hotspots, sailing away on a traditional Banca boat to discover deserted islands, leave footprints on soft white beaches, snorkel turquoise waters, interact with local tribes and stargaze on the beach. This trip will wake up your inner adventurer - with only a mattress, mosquito net, and bucket shower our traditional Filipino huts are simple - but given the lack of crowds, abundant fresh food, and postcard shots everywhere you turn, the trade-off is absolutely worth it!
CORON
Continuing our sail to El Nido we’ll swing by more uninhabited beaches and swim amongst fish in some of the world’s clearest waters. Without wifi, we are completely off-the-grid, able to fully immerse ourselves in the otherworldly beauty of our surroundings, and focus on our routine - swim, snorkel, sunbathe, repeat! Tonight we stay in a traditional beach camp to fall asleep to the sound of the ocean.
EL NIDO
Our boat expedition comes to an end today when we arrive in El Nido on the island of Palawan, our final destination in this stunning country. After a few jam-packed days of sailing and swimming, today we’ll have plenty of free time to chill out on the beach, sip cold drinks, work on our tans and explore El Nido. Tonight we’ll get to experience what El Nido’s nightlife is all about!
EL NIDO
This morning we’ll treat ourselves with an included Filipino massage, the ultimate way to ease our muscles after so much adventure. We’ll then head off to see the town from above on a canopy walk through the jungle. Tonight you’ll choose how you want to spend your evening. A sunset bar or perhaps a chilled dinner, the options are endless!
EL NIDO
Our last day of exploring will see us jump in a Jeepney for a tour of El Nido! We'll visit a local organic farm and enjoy lunch on the beach with a traditional Filipino dance performed by the local children. We'll then head to Nacpan beach, one of the most picturesque spots on Palawan, as well as checking out a few local hideouts to get a taste of Filipino island life. Tonight we'll have our final dinner and drinks together.
EL NIDO
Time to bid farewell as our 13 day adventure comes to an end. You can either check out and make your way back home, stay on longer in El Nido or continue your travels in the Philippines. If you need any assistance planning onward travel, we’re more than happy to help!
Making a positive difference to the amazing destinations we travel is at the core of what we do. Small Change is our own socially conscious initiative aimed at making the world that little bit better place to explore!
Check out the #SmallChange you'll be part of while doing this tour. Click here
The great thing about the Philippines is it’s usually quite hot and dry whilst we are operating, so it’s great to go at any time between October to June. Please keep in mind that we don’t operate our tours during the main wet season (July, August, September). And in Asia, if it does rain it’s normally just for an hour or two and then it will stop.
This is a backpacker style trip, aimed at those happy to stay in nice, budget 2-3 star style accommodation. During the 3 day/2 night Boat Expedition from Coron to El Nido the accommodation is basic and rustic style Filipino Huts with mosquito nets. There is limited power supply, no phone signal and you will shower with buckets of water. A truly memorable experience immersing yourself in the local Filipino culture.
Due to the nature of the Philippines being an archipelago country, there are some long travel days which includes a couple of internal public flights, a public ferry, and private minibuses. This also includes travelling on a boat from Coron to El Nido on a 3 night/2 day Boat Expedition, where you will sleep on 2 different remote island camps for the 2 nights. A truly exotic and magical experience!
This tour includes a lot of water activities, such as canyoneering, swimming and snorkelling. This also means quite a bit of time spent on boats, and some activities are slightly physical and weather dependant. We do not run tours during monsoon season; however, due to where the Philippines is geographically located, the weather can be unpredictable at times and can affect some of the activities.
When should I arrive for my tour?
It’s best to arrive on the actual start date. This is when most people arrive. There are no activities on the first day but the group gets together in the evening for a welcome dinner at around 7pm. Sometimes people like to arrive a day or two before the trip starts so they can do their own exploring or just have a bit of time to chill before all the fun begins. Our INTRO Travel App has all the important information about arriving into the country, your airport transfer and where to meet when you arrive. Please download it here for iPhone or Google
Where can I update my arrival information for my tour?
Once you have booked your flights please log into the Manage My Booking area of our website and let us know your flight arrival details. If you are arriving early we can still arrange your airport transfer for you (excluding Japan). You can book and pay for any extra nights accommodation in the Manage My Booking area of our website. The cost and availability of extra nights will vary depending on which tour you have booked.
Which airport do I need to fly into?
You can find information on which airport to fly into and out of in the 'Arrival Info’ and ‘After Your Trip’ sections of our INTRO Travel App, which you can download here for iPhone or Google
Can I book pre-tour accommodation with you?
If you are arriving before the start date you can book extra nights at the tour accommodation. To do this, simply log into the Manage My Booking area of our website, add the extra nights and pay for them.
Can I book post-tour accommodation with you?
Your group leader will book post-tour accommodation for you when you are on tour. Just need to let them know when you arrive.
How do I organise my airport transfer?
Our Philippines tour includes an airport transfer for when you arrive. Once you have booked your flights simply log into the Manage My Booking Area of our website and let us know your flight arrival details. If you are arriving early and staying at the tour accommodation we will still arrange your airport transfer. Please let us know if you do not require an airport transfer.
A return transfer (after the tour) is not included, however your group leader can help arrange this for you, along with any other onward travel you need.
Our INTRO Travel App has all the important information about your airport transfer and where to meet when you arrive. Please download it here for iPhone or Google
Are flights included in the price?
Flights to and from The Philippines are not included in the price of the tour and will need to be booked separately. However if your tour has an internal flight as part of the itinerary, then this is included!
You can get a quote on a flight to your destination here.
When should I book my flight to arrive?
It’s best to arrive on the actual start date. This is when most people arrive. There are no activities on the first day but the group gets together in the evening for a welcome dinner at around 7pm. Sometimes people like to arrive a day or two before the trip starts so they can do their own exploring or just have a bit of time to chill before all the fun begins.
Is travel insurance compulsory?
Travel insurance is compulsory for all our trips. You’ll need to show proof of your policy to your group leader upon arrival (on your phone or printed). You can get a quote and purchase your travel insurance here.
Do I need a visa and can you arrange it for me?
Visa requirements vary depending on the country you are travelling to and your nationality. It’s your responsibility to check the visa and entry requirements for the country/s you will be travelling to. There is some information about visas in our INTRO Travel App, which you can download here for iPhone or Google
IMPORTANT: We cannot apply for your visa for you and strongly recommend that you check on the relevant embassy or consulate website for the country/s you’ll be travelling to well in advance of your departure, as requirements can change and some countries require you to apply for a visa before you travel.
How much spending money will I need?
All your activities, transport, accommodation and some meals are included in the tour, so you will mainly just need money for extra meals, drinks, shopping and onward travel.
The amount of money you’ll need depends on the tour you are doing. There’s information about how much money you’ll need for each tour in our INTRO Travel App, which you can download here for iPhone or Google
What’s the best way to access my money?
We recommend getting a Wise travel card, which will allow you to pay for things in local currency and avoid getting charged high foreign exchange fees by your bank.
Getting a Wise travel card is easy! You can get a Wise travel card here.
What should I pack for my tour?
Whether you have a backpack or a suitcase the main thing to keep in mind is not to bring too much stuff! We strongly recommend that you bring less than 20 kgs of stuff with you.
If you haven’t got a backpack yet, try and get one that zips open along the side. There will be places on the tour where you can do laundry, so you don’t need to bring 16 pairs of shorts with you.
You can view a packing checklist on our INTRO Travel App, which you can download here for iPhone or Google
How many people will be in my group?
Our groups usually have around 12-16 people on them, usually aged between 18 to early 40's. We get people from all over the world on our tours, so you’ll get to bond with a wide range of travellers who all share that same passion for adventure! As long as you have an appetite for adventure and are happy bonding with people of all backgrounds, you’ll fit in perfectly!
How can I get in touch with my group?
You can reach out to your fellow travellers in our designated Facebook groups. We have a Facebook group for all our destinations, if you go to our INTRO Travel Community Facebook page you will be able to find the relevant group for your destination.
How can I get in touch with my group leader?
You will receive a ‘welcome email’ from your group leader approx. 2 weeks before your tour begins.
What if I'm travelling solo?
If you're struggling to convince your friends to join you on an adventure, you're not alone!
Travelling solo on a group tour can be one of the most exciting ways to experience a new destination, and you won't have to wait around for your mates to be ready. You leave yourself open to meeting amazing people, making new friends, and can keep yourself and your onward travel plans flexible.
The majority of our group members are solo travellers, so joining one of our group tours is a great way to meet people and make friends. Before your trip starts we'll put you in touch with the rest of your group so you can start chatting and get to know each other. And after the trip a lot of people continue travelling with the new friends they've made!
What if I'm travelling with a friend/s or partner?
Once you’ve made a booking just let us know who you’re travelling with and we can make a note that you are travelling together, and can put you in the same room.
A big part of the INTRO Travel difference is our after-trip support. Your group leader will spend enough time as needed to ensure you are totally comfortable and confident with where you’re going next. And can help organise and book whatever you need, including any transport, accommodation or trips you may want. We'll also provide 24/7 support and advice after your trip, and will always be there to help when you need it.
$400
From beachside hotels to traditional Filipino huts on remote islands!
Check it out hereVisit iconic waterfalls, explore pristine beaches, snorkel in emerald green waters & more!
See the full listAll transport during your adventure is sorted, including internal flights, ferries, tricycles, minibuses & more!
You'll get an awesome group leader from the moment you step off the plane to provide 24/7 support during & after your trip.
12 Breakfasts, 6 Lunch & 2 Dinners
We accurately measure the CO2 emissions of your tour and 100% offset them through planting the required amount of trees.
Kamusta and welcome to Manila! On arrival in the bustling capital we’ll meet you at the airport to take you to the hotel. You’ll have plenty of time to recover from the flight before meeting up with your new travel crew and getting excited for the adventures to come.
Today we travel to Cebu via a short flight and ferry. We’ll then get to drive up the coast, stopping at some of Cebu’s most impressive waterfalls and getting those classic Philippines Insta snaps!
Today you’re in for a treat - an adrenaline-pumping canyoneering experience at Kawasan Waterfalls! This activity will have the brave of us not just looking, but LEAPING into the unbelievably blue pools of the falls below.
This morning we’ll venture out to witness Moalboal’s famous Sardine Run, a natural phenomenon worthy of a David Attenborough documentary. You’ll get the chance to snorkel amongst millions of sardines in crystal waters, truly an experience like no other. We’ll also keep our fingers crossed for sea turtles! The afternoon is yours to explore more of Moalboal, or simply relax by the beach or pool.
On the way to our second flight of the trip from Cebu City we’ll stop at Simala Church. This castle-like monastery is the perfect place for us to gain insight into the Spanish colonisation of the Philippines. After our flight to Busuanga Island we’ll check in to our accom.
Today you’ll get to experience the best snorkelling Coron has to offer! Swim amongst schools of fish in the iconic turquoise water and see why Coron is absolute paradise! Tonight we'll get ready to experience the vibrant nightlife in Coron.
Relax by the pool or wander Coron Town, the morning is in your hands! This afternoon we’ll lace up our sneakers and take a short hike up Mount Tapyas to be rewarded with incredible views of the bay. We’ll then head to Maquinit Hot Springs for some relaxation, taking in a glorious sunset as we soak in the naturally warm saltwater pools.
Today we set off on an unforgettable 3-day expedition from Coron to El Nido. This trip will take us far from the usual tourist hotspots, sailing away on a traditional Banca boat to discover deserted islands, leave footprints on soft white beaches, snorkel turquoise waters, interact with local tribes and stargaze on the beach. This trip will wake up your inner adventurer - with only a mattress, mosquito net, and bucket shower our traditional Filipino huts are simple - but given the lack of crowds, abundant fresh food, and postcard shots everywhere you turn, the trade-off is absolutely worth it!
Continuing our sail to El Nido we’ll swing by more uninhabited beaches and swim amongst fish in some of the world’s clearest waters. Without wifi, we are completely off-the-grid, able to fully immerse ourselves in the otherworldly beauty of our surroundings, and focus on our routine - swim, snorkel, sunbathe, repeat! Tonight we stay in a traditional beach camp to fall asleep to the sound of the ocean.
Our boat expedition comes to an end today when we arrive in El Nido on the island of Palawan, our final destination in this stunning country. After a few jam-packed days of sailing and swimming, today we’ll have plenty of free time to chill out on the beach, sip cold drinks, work on our tans and explore El Nido. Tonight we’ll get to experience what El Nido’s nightlife is all about!
This morning we’ll treat ourselves with an included Filipino massage, the ultimate way to ease our muscles after so much adventure. We’ll then head off to see the town from above on a canopy walk through the jungle. Tonight you’ll choose how you want to spend your evening. A sunset bar or perhaps a chilled dinner, the options are endless!
Our last day of exploring will see us jump in a Jeepney for a tour of El Nido! We'll visit a local organic farm and enjoy lunch on the beach with a traditional Filipino dance performed by the local children. We'll then head to Nacpan beach, one of the most picturesque spots on Palawan, as well as checking out a few local hideouts to get a taste of Filipino island life. Tonight we'll have our final dinner and drinks together.
Time to bid farewell as our 13 day adventure comes to an end. You can either check out and make your way back home, stay on longer in El Nido or continue your travels in the Philippines. If you need any assistance planning onward travel, we’re more than happy to help!
Making a positive difference to the amazing destinations we travel is at the core of what we do. Small Change is our own socially conscious initiative aimed at making the world that little bit better place to explore!
Check out the #SmallChange you'll be part of while doing this tour. Click here
The great thing about the Philippines is it’s usually quite hot and dry whilst we are operating, so it’s great to go at any time between October to June. Please keep in mind that we don’t operate our tours during the main wet season (July, August, September). And in Asia, if it does rain it’s normally just for an hour or two and then it will stop.
This is a backpacker style trip, aimed at those happy to stay in nice, budget 2-3 star style accommodation. During the 3 day/2 night Boat Expedition from Coron to El Nido the accommodation is basic and rustic style Filipino Huts with mosquito nets. There is limited power supply, no phone signal and you will shower with buckets of water. A truly memorable experience immersing yourself in the local Filipino culture.
Due to the nature of the Philippines being an archipelago country, there are some long travel days which includes a couple of internal public flights, a public ferry, and private minibuses. This also includes travelling on a boat from Coron to El Nido on a 3 night/2 day Boat Expedition, where you will sleep on 2 different remote island camps for the 2 nights. A truly exotic and magical experience!
This tour includes a lot of water activities, such as canyoneering, swimming and snorkelling. This also means quite a bit of time spent on boats, and some activities are slightly physical and weather dependant. We do not run tours during monsoon season; however, due to where the Philippines is geographically located, the weather can be unpredictable at times and can affect some of the activities.
When should I arrive for my tour?
It’s best to arrive on the actual start date. This is when most people arrive. There are no activities on the first day but the group gets together in the evening for a welcome dinner at around 7pm. Sometimes people like to arrive a day or two before the trip starts so they can do their own exploring or just have a bit of time to chill before all the fun begins. Our INTRO Travel App has all the important information about arriving into the country, your airport transfer and where to meet when you arrive. Please download it here for iPhone or Google
Where can I update my arrival information for my tour?
Once you have booked your flights please log into the Manage My Booking area of our website and let us know your flight arrival details. If you are arriving early we can still arrange your airport transfer for you (excluding Japan). You can book and pay for any extra nights accommodation in the Manage My Booking area of our website. The cost and availability of extra nights will vary depending on which tour you have booked.
Which airport do I need to fly into?
You can find information on which airport to fly into and out of in the 'Arrival Info’ and ‘After Your Trip’ sections of our INTRO Travel App, which you can download here for iPhone or Google
Can I book pre-tour accommodation with you?
If you are arriving before the start date you can book extra nights at the tour accommodation. To do this, simply log into the Manage My Booking area of our website, add the extra nights and pay for them.
Can I book post-tour accommodation with you?
Your group leader will book post-tour accommodation for you when you are on tour. Just need to let them know when you arrive.
How do I organise my airport transfer?
Our Philippines tour includes an airport transfer for when you arrive. Once you have booked your flights simply log into the Manage My Booking Area of our website and let us know your flight arrival details. If you are arriving early and staying at the tour accommodation we will still arrange your airport transfer. Please let us know if you do not require an airport transfer.
A return transfer (after the tour) is not included, however your group leader can help arrange this for you, along with any other onward travel you need.
Our INTRO Travel App has all the important information about your airport transfer and where to meet when you arrive. Please download it here for iPhone or Google
Are flights included in the price?
Flights to and from The Philippines are not included in the price of the tour and will need to be booked separately. However if your tour has an internal flight as part of the itinerary, then this is included!
You can get a quote on a flight to your destination here.
When should I book my flight to arrive?
It’s best to arrive on the actual start date. This is when most people arrive. There are no activities on the first day but the group gets together in the evening for a welcome dinner at around 7pm. Sometimes people like to arrive a day or two before the trip starts so they can do their own exploring or just have a bit of time to chill before all the fun begins.
Is travel insurance compulsory?
Travel insurance is compulsory for all our trips. You’ll need to show proof of your policy to your group leader upon arrival (on your phone or printed). You can get a quote and purchase your travel insurance here.
Do I need a visa and can you arrange it for me?
Visa requirements vary depending on the country you are travelling to and your nationality. It’s your responsibility to check the visa and entry requirements for the country/s you will be travelling to. There is some information about visas in our INTRO Travel App, which you can download here for iPhone or Google
IMPORTANT: We cannot apply for your visa for you and strongly recommend that you check on the relevant embassy or consulate website for the country/s you’ll be travelling to well in advance of your departure, as requirements can change and some countries require you to apply for a visa before you travel.
How much spending money will I need?
All your activities, transport, accommodation and some meals are included in the tour, so you will mainly just need money for extra meals, drinks, shopping and onward travel.
The amount of money you’ll need depends on the tour you are doing. There’s information about how much money you’ll need for each tour in our INTRO Travel App, which you can download here for iPhone or Google
What’s the best way to access my money?
We recommend getting a Wise travel card, which will allow you to pay for things in local currency and avoid getting charged high foreign exchange fees by your bank.
Getting a Wise travel card is easy! You can get a Wise travel card here.
What should I pack for my tour?
Whether you have a backpack or a suitcase the main thing to keep in mind is not to bring too much stuff! We strongly recommend that you bring less than 20 kgs of stuff with you.
If you haven’t got a backpack yet, try and get one that zips open along the side. There will be places on the tour where you can do laundry, so you don’t need to bring 16 pairs of shorts with you.
You can view a packing checklist on our INTRO Travel App, which you can download here for iPhone or Google
How many people will be in my group?
Our groups usually have around 12-16 people on them, usually aged between 18 to early 40's. We get people from all over the world on our tours, so you’ll get to bond with a wide range of travellers who all share that same passion for adventure! As long as you have an appetite for adventure and are happy bonding with people of all backgrounds, you’ll fit in perfectly!
How can I get in touch with my group?
You can reach out to your fellow travellers in our designated Facebook groups. We have a Facebook group for all our destinations, if you go to our INTRO Travel Community Facebook page you will be able to find the relevant group for your destination.
How can I get in touch with my group leader?
You will receive a ‘welcome email’ from your group leader approx. 2 weeks before your tour begins.
What if I'm travelling solo?
If you're struggling to convince your friends to join you on an adventure, you're not alone!
Travelling solo on a group tour can be one of the most exciting ways to experience a new destination, and you won't have to wait around for your mates to be ready. You leave yourself open to meeting amazing people, making new friends, and can keep yourself and your onward travel plans flexible.
The majority of our group members are solo travellers, so joining one of our group tours is a great way to meet people and make friends. Before your trip starts we'll put you in touch with the rest of your group so you can start chatting and get to know each other. And after the trip a lot of people continue travelling with the new friends they've made!
What if I'm travelling with a friend/s or partner?
Once you’ve made a booking just let us know who you’re travelling with and we can make a note that you are travelling together, and can put you in the same room.
A big part of the INTRO Travel difference is our after-trip support. Your group leader will spend enough time as needed to ensure you are totally comfortable and confident with where you’re going next. And can help organise and book whatever you need, including any transport, accommodation or trips you may want. We'll also provide 24/7 support and advice after your trip, and will always be there to help when you need it.
$400
1 night in a funky, modern hotel in a great location in Manila. With twin/double rooms, an ensuite, WiFi, air con, laundry & restaurant.
3 nights in a beach front resort in a perfect location. With twin/double rooms, an ensuite, WiFi, air con, laundry & beachfront pool.
3 nights in a modern hotel in a central location. With twin/double rooms, an ensuite, WiFi, air con, laundry & close to the action!
2 nights in basic traditional Filipino huts on a remote hidden island. With twin share huts & shared bathrooms. A unique experience sleeping under the stars!
3 nights in a comfortable inn thats close to the beach. With twin/double rooms, an ensuite, WiFi, air con, laundry & restaurant
To make our tours as eco-friendly as possible we partnered with Path Net Zero to accurately measure our tours emissions, and Veritree to plant trees to offset those emissions. We are very proud to say that every INTRO tour is 100% carbon neutral.
Single use plastic is the largest contributor of waste ruining beautiful places around the world. So you can grab an INTRO bottle and keep your waste down!
During our 3-day island expedition, we visit a local school of 250+ students for an incredible cultural and educational exchange!
To make our tours as eco-friendly as possible we partnered with Path Net Zero to accurately measure our tours emissions, and Veritree to plant trees to offset those emissions. We are very proud to say that every INTRO tour is 100% carbon neutral.
Single use plastic is the largest contributor of waste ruining beautiful places around the world. So you can grab an INTRO bottle and keep your waste down!
During our 3-day island expedition, we visit a local school of 250+ students for an incredible cultural and educational exchange!
