Embark on an unforgettable 10-day journey through the Philippines, a tropical paradise where history, culture and natural wonders collide. Begin in the bustling capital of Manila, dive into the jungles of Palawan to explore majestic underground rivers, then island-hop your way through El Nido and Coron’s stunning lagoons and shipwreck dive sites. This comprehensive itinerary blends must-see landmarks, off-the-beaten-path gems, and local experiences for a truly immersive trip. Whether you’re a beach lover, history buff or adventure seeker, this guide ensures you make the most of every island sunrise and sunset.
Day 1: Arrival in Manila and Historic Intramuros Tour
Touch down at Ninoy Aquino International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Manila’s historic district. Spend the afternoon wandering the cobblestone streets of Intramuros, the walled city founded by Spanish colonizers in the 16th century. Visit Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral and Casa Manila museum to learn about colonial life. Sample classic Filipino dishes like adobo and sisig at a local restaurant. As evening falls, catch a river cruise on the Pasig for panoramic city views.
Day 2: Culinary Delights and Travel to Puerto Princesa
Start with a hearty serving of Filipino breakfast staples—silog meals featuring garlic fried rice and cured meats. Explore Binondo, the world’s oldest Chinatown, for authentic dim sum and hop between street-food stalls offering lumpia and hopia pastries. In the afternoon, fly to Puerto Princesa in Palawan. Check into a beachfront resort and unwind with fresh seafood by the shore. Rest up for tomorrow’s natural wonders.
Day 3: Puerto Princesa Underground River & Honda Bay Islands
Embark on a day trip to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Glide through limestone caverns illuminated by bioluminescent organisms and marvel at stalactites and stalagmites. In the afternoon, head to Honda Bay for island hopping. Swim and snorkel off Cowrie Island, Starfish Island and Luli Island to see vibrant coral gardens and starfish colonies. Return to town for a serene sunset dinner.
Day 4: Transfer to El Nido and Sunset at Las Cabañas Beach
After breakfast, take a scenic 4- to 5-hour van ride north to El Nido. Arrive midday and check in to your eco-lodge overlooking towering karst formations. Spend the afternoon relaxing at Las Cabañas Beach. Rent a kayak or simply lounge on the soft white sand as the sun dips below the horizon. Sample fresh coconut juice and grilled seafood from beachside stalls before turning in early for an active day ahead.
Day 5: Island Hopping Tour A – Big Lagoon & Secret Beach
Join the iconic El Nido Tour A to explore the Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon and Shimizu Island. Paddle through emerald waters framed by karst walls, snorkel among tropical fish and relax on hidden white-sand beaches. Enjoy a picnic lunch cooked by your boat crew featuring grilled fish and local fruit. Return to town for dinner at a riverside café serving international and Filipino fusion dishes.
Day 6: Island Hopping Tour C – Hidden Beaches & Helicopter Island
On Day 6, take Tour C to discover Helicopter Island, Cathedral Cave and Secret Beach. Snorkel in unspoiled coral gardens, swim through limestone tunnels and unwind on pristine beaches far from the crowds. In the late afternoon, hike up to a viewpoint above El Nido town for a panoramic shot of Bacuit Bay. Dine at an open-air restaurant with live acoustic music and sample local craft beers.
Day 7: Ferry to Coron and Town Exploration
Board a fast ferry for a 3- to 4-hour journey to Coron. Upon arrival, stroll the town plaza, visit the souvenir market and fuel up on native snacks like cashew nuts and turon. Climb Mt. Tapyas just before sunset for a bird’s-eye view of Coron Bay and surrounding islands. Cap off the evening at a rooftop bar offering cocktails infused with calamansi and mango.
Day 8: Coron Island Hopping – Kayangan Lake & Twin Lagoon
Discover Coron’s crown jewels on an island-hopping tour. Marvel at the crystal-clear waters of Kayangan Lake, considered the cleanest lake in the Philippines. Next, explore the Twin Lagoon, paddling through a narrow limestone passage during low tide, then snorkeling above coral ledges. Enjoy a lunch of grilled chicken, fresh fish and tropical fruits served on a floating bamboo platform.
Day 9: Wreck Dives & Barracuda Lake or Barracuda Cave
Coron is famed for its World War II shipwrecks. Certified divers can descend into the deep blue to explore the stern wreck of the Akitsushima or the Olympia Maru. Non-divers snorkel above shallow wrecks teeming with marine life. In the afternoon, relax at Barracuda Lake, where thermocline layers create surreal snorkeling conditions, or hike to Barracuda Cave for a unique underground experience.
Day 10: Return to Manila and Departure
Fly back to Manila for your final day. Shop for last-minute souvenirs at Greenbelt Mall or the weekend BGC Market, sampling local treats like polvoron and dried mango. Squeeze in a massage for sore muscles before your evening flight home. Reflect on ten days of stunning landscapes, vibrant culture and warm Filipino hospitality as you say “paalam” to this island nation.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: November to May for dry weather and calm seas.
- Local SIM Cards: Available at Manila airport and major towns for data connectivity.
- Cash & ATMs: Many islands are cash-only. Withdraw in Manila or Puerto Princesa.
- Island Resort Fees: Some areas charge environmental fees—keep small bills handy.
- Responsible Travel: Pack reef-safe sunscreen and avoid single-use plastics.
- Communication: Basic English is widely spoken, but learning a few Tagalog phrases enriches interactions.
Conclusion
This 10-day Philippines itinerary offers a balanced mix of history, culture, adventure and relaxation. From Manila’s storied streets to Palawan’s breathtaking lagoons and Coron’s underwater museums, each destination reveals a unique facet of this enchanting archipelago. Embrace island life, savor regional flavors and make memories that will last a lifetime in the Pearl of the Orient Seas.
Make sure to read our Truly Sustainable Ethical Travel.
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