16 day itinerary for Philippines
Personalized with:
4 to 6 people
Island hooping
Low cost
Enjoy the beach and the sun
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Itinerary
The Philippines is a tropical paradise with stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and friendly locals. With 16 days to explore, you can definitely enjoy some island hopping while keeping costs low. Here’s a fun and budget-friendly itinerary for your group of 4 to 6 people:
## Day 1: Arrival in Manila
- Morning: Arrive in Manila. Check into a budget-friendly hostel or guesthouse.
- Afternoon: Explore Intramuros, the historic walled city. Visit Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church.
- Evening: Enjoy a local dinner at a nearby eatery. Try some street food like "isaw" (grilled chicken intestines) or "taho" (silken tofu with syrup).
## Day 2: Manila to Palawan (Puerto Princesa)
- Morning: Fly to Puerto Princesa (book in advance for cheaper rates).
- Afternoon: Check into a budget accommodation. Visit the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park (book a tour).
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant. Try the famous "kinilaw" (raw fish salad).
## Day 3: Puerto Princesa
- Full ## Day: Take a day tour to Honda Bay. Island hop to Cowrie Island, Starfish Island, and Luli Island. Snorkeling gear is usually included in the tour package.
- Evening: Return to Puerto Princesa and enjoy a beachside dinner.
## Day 4: Puerto Princesa to El Nido
- Morning: Take a van or bus to El Nido (around 4-6 hours).
- Afternoon: Check into your accommodation. Relax at El Nido beach.
- Evening: Explore the town and have dinner at a local eatery.
## Day 5: El Nido Island Hopping
- Full ## Day: Join an island-hopping tour (Tour A is popular). Visit lagoons, beaches, and snorkel spots like Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, and Shimizu Island.
- Evening: Enjoy a sunset at Las Cabañas Beach and have dinner at a beachfront restaurant.
## Day 6: El Nido Island Hopping
- Full ## Day: Join another island-hopping tour (Tour C is recommended). Visit Hidden Beach, Matinloc Shrine, and snorkel at Secret Beach.
- Evening: Relax and enjoy a beach bonfire if available.
## Day 7: El Nido to Coron
- Morning: Take a ferry to Coron (around 3-4 hours).
- Afternoon: Check into your accommodation. Explore Coron town and visit the local market.
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant. Try "lumpiang shanghai" (spring rolls).
## Day 8: Coron Island Hopping
- Full ## Day: Join an island-hopping tour. Visit Kayangan Lake, Barracuda Lake, and snorkel at Siete Pecados.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner and share stories about your day.
## Day 9: Coron
- Morning: Visit Maquinit Hot Springs for a relaxing soak.
- Afternoon: Explore Mount Tapyas for a panoramic view of Coron.
- Evening: Dinner in town and enjoy some local nightlife.
## Day 10: Coron to Cebu
- Morning: Fly from Coron to Cebu City.
- Afternoon: Check into your accommodation. Visit Magellan’s Cross and Basilica del Santo Niño.
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant. Try Cebu lechon (roast pig).
## Day 11: Cebu to Moalboal
- Morning: Take a bus to Moalboal (around 3 hours).
- Afternoon: Check into your accommodation. Relax at Panagsama Beach.
- Evening: Dinner at a beachside restaurant.
## Day 12: Moalboal
- Full ## Day: Go snorkeling at Pescador Island and see the sardine run. You can also try diving if your group is interested.
- Evening: Enjoy a beach bonfire or a quiet dinner.
## Day 13: Moalboal to Malapascua Island
- Morning: Travel to Malapascua Island (bus and boat transfer).
- Afternoon: Check into your accommodation. Relax on the beach.
- Evening: Dinner at a local eatery.
## Day 14: Malapascua Island
- Full ## Day: Go diving or snorkeling to see the thresher sharks (if you’re certified). If not, enjoy the beach and explore the island.
- Evening: Dinner and enjoy the laid-back island vibe.
## Day 15: Malapascua to Cebu City
- Morning: Travel back to Cebu City.
- Afternoon: Last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Visit the Taoist Temple.
- Evening: Farewell dinner at a nice restaurant. Celebrate your trip!
## Day 16: Departure
- Morning: Depending on your flight time, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and some last-minute sightseeing.
- Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.
Tips for Budget Travel:
- Accommodation: Look for hostels, guesthouses, or budget hotels. Consider booking in advance for better rates.
- Food: Eat at local eateries or try street food to save money.
- Transport: Use public transport or shared vans for inter-island travel.
- Group Discounts: Always ask for group rates for tours and activities.
This itinerary balances adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences while keeping costs manageable. Enjoy your sun-soaked adventure in the Philippines! 🌴🏖️
Places of interest
Manila
Manila is the capital city of the Philippines and is known for its vibrant culture, historical landmarks, and bustling urban atmosphere. It offers a mix of modern skyscrapers, Spanish colonial architecture, and traditional markets. Visitors can explore attractions such as Intramuros, Rizal Park, and the National Museum of the Philippines.
Puerto Princesa
Puerto Princesa is a coastal city located on the island of Palawan in the Philippines. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush rainforests. The city is also home to the famous Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. Visitors can explore underground rivers, go island hopping, snorkel or dive in vibrant coral reefs, and experience the warm hospitality of the locals.
Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park
Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines. It features a stunning underground river that flows through a limestone cave system, surrounded by lush forests and diverse wildlife.
El Nido beach
Description:** El Nido Beach, located in the stunning Palawan region of the Philippines, is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and vibrant marine life. It serves as a gateway to the Bacuit Archipelago, offering visitors breathtaking views, excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities, and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
Las Cabañas Beach
Description:** Las Cabañas Beach is a stunning stretch of white sand located in El Nido, Palawan, Philippines. Known for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque sunsets, it offers a tranquil atmosphere perfect for relaxation, swimming, and enjoying various water activities like snorkeling and kayaking. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery and provides access to nearby islands, making it a popular spot for both tourists and locals.
Hidden Beach
Hidden Beach Philippines is a stunning and secluded beach located in the province of Palawan. Surrounded by lush greenery and crystal-clear turquoise waters, this hidden gem offers a tranquil and serene escape from the bustling city life. With its pristine white sand and breathtaking views, it is the perfect destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Matinloc Shrine
Description:** Matinloc Shrine is a beautiful and serene destination located on Matinloc Island in the Philippines. It features stunning views of the surrounding turquoise waters, lush greenery, and dramatic limestone cliffs. The shrine itself is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is known for its peaceful atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both tourists and locals seeking reflection and tranquility.
Secret Beach
Secret Beach Philippines is a hidden gem located in the beautiful archipelago of the Philippines. This secluded beach offers pristine white sands, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and breathtaking views of the surrounding lush greenery. It is the perfect destination for those seeking tranquility and serenity away from the bustling tourist crowds.
Coron
Coron is a small town located in the province of Palawan, Philippines. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including pristine beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and towering limestone cliffs. The town serves as a gateway to the popular Coron Island, which is renowned for its world-class diving sites, such as the famous WWII shipwrecks. Visitors can also explore the enchanting Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon, and Barracuda Lake, among other picturesque spots. With its breathtaking landscapes and rich marine biodiversity, Coron offers an unforgettable tropical paradise experience.
Kayangan Lake
Kayangan Lake is a stunning natural wonder located in Coron, Palawan, Philippines. It is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and lush greenery. The lake offers a serene and picturesque setting, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the underwater rock formations. Visitors can also hike up to a viewpoint that provides breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and its surroundings.
Siete Pecados
Description:** Siete Pecados is a stunning marine sanctuary located in the Philippines, known for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. It is a popular destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, offering crystal-clear waters and an abundance of colorful fish.
Maquinit Hot Springs
Description:** Maquinit Hot Springs is a natural hot spring located near Coron, Palawan, Philippines. Surrounded by lush mangroves and scenic views, it offers visitors a relaxing experience with warm mineral-rich waters that are believed to have therapeutic properties. The springs are set in a serene environment, making it a perfect spot for relaxation after exploring the nearby attractions.
Mount Tapyas
Description:** Mount Tapyas is a prominent hill located in Coron, Palawan, Philippines, known for its stunning panoramic views of the surrounding islands and the crystal-clear waters of the Sulu Sea. A popular hiking destination, it features a well-maintained trail with over 700 steps leading to a large cross at the summit, making it an ideal spot for both sunrise and sunset viewing.
Magellan’s Cross
Description:** Magellan’s Cross is a historical landmark located in Cebu City, Philippines. It was planted by Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan in 1521 to mark the arrival of Christianity in the Philippines. The cross is housed in a small chapel and is considered a significant symbol of the country's Christian heritage.
Moalboal
Moalboal is a small coastal town located in the province of Cebu, Philippines. Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant marine life, it is a popular destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. The town offers a laid-back atmosphere with a range of accommodations, restaurants, and bars to cater to tourists. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions such as the Kawasan Falls and Pescador Island.
Panagsama Beach
Description:** Panagsama Beach, located in Moalboal, Cebu, Philippines, is renowned for its stunning white sand and vibrant marine life. It serves as a popular spot for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, offering easy access to the famous Pescador Island and the breathtaking sardine run. The beach is lined with various accommodations, restaurants, and dive shops, making it a lively destination for both relaxation and adventure.
Pescador Island
Pescador Island is a small, uninhabited island located off the coast of Moalboal in the Philippines. It is known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
Malapascua Island
Description:** Malapascua Island is a small, picturesque island located in the northern part of Cebu, Philippines. Known for its stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, it is a popular destination for diving enthusiasts, particularly for thresher shark sightings. The island offers a laid-back atmosphere, with various accommodations, restaurants, and water activities.