Ultimate Philippines Island Hopping | Without Expedition
Ultimate Philippines Island Hopping | Without Expedition
$3795
Ultimate Philippines Island Hopping | Without Expedition
18 Days Starting in Cebu, Philippines and ending in El Nido, Philippines
Visiting: Cebu City, Moalboal, Bohol, Panglao, Boracay, Puerto Princesa, Port Barton, El Nido
Tour operator:
Tour code:
PHIH25
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the Ultimate Philippines Island Hopping adventure, a captivating journey through the stunning archipelago without the need for an expedition. Begin your exploration in Cebu City, where you'll meet your crew and enjoy a complimentary meal. Dive into the vibrant marine life of Moalboal, witness the breathtaking waterfalls, and experience the enchanting firefly spectacle in Bohol. Discover the iconic Chocolate Hills and the adorable tarsiers before heading to Panglao for dolphin watching and sunset views. Continue to Boracay for island hopping and then to Palawan for a unique underground river experience. Relax in Port Barton, snorkel with sea turtles, and enjoy a traditional Filipino meal. Conclude your journey in El Nido, exploring pristine beaches and indulging in local culture. This unforgettable tour promises a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion across the Philippines' most beautiful islands.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Cebu City
Location: Cebu City
Accommodation Name: Yello Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to Asia’s Pearl of the Orient, packed with some of the BEST views of your lifetime! There’s so much to see, and there’s no time to waste. You’ll meet your crew here in Cebu. Drop your bags off & join us for your very first meal of the trip (it’s our treat!).
Day 2: Cebu City To Moalboal
Location: Moalboal
Accommodation Name: Pescador Suites (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
It’s the first full day. So you best believe we’re living it out to the fullest. We’ll head out in our van to our very first beachy spot of the trip, stopping by for a local style lunch & then a beautiful mystical church too!Yes, we know. You can't wait to witness the fascinating sardine run IRL. So drop your bags off at our hotel, and get ready for a snorkelling adventure here in this picturesque coastal town. Hit the white-sand beach, play volleyball with the locals. And then head into the water for snorkelling, turtles and ofc, the super rare sardine run!
Day 3: Moalboal
Location: Moalboal
Accommodation Name: Pescador Suites (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Love waterfalls? You’ll love today. After breakfast, we’ll kick start our journey with a trek towards Aguinid Falls. Then, we'll head to Kawasan Falls & Alergria Falls where you can dip your toes in the water and even take a swim (if that’s your vibe). Expect stunning scenery of beautiful turquoise waters, majestic cascades and wonderfully green forests. Wow.
Day 4: Moalboal To Bohol
Location: Bohol
Accommodation Name: Loboc River Resort (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
It’s time to say goodbye to the oh-so-beautiful Moalboal. Don’t worry, our next stop is giving those turquoise waters some serious competition. Jaws will drop as you drop your bags off at our scenic riverside resort here. Bohol's known for its luscious landscape & fascinating creatures. But first, you’re in for an once-in-a-lifetime experience tonight - we're riding on a boat to see golden fireflies illuminate the river in the dark!
Day 5: Bohol
Location: Bohol
Accommodation Name: Loboc River Resort (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Wakey wakey, grab your brekkie. Today we’re jumping on a tuk tuk (just like the locals!) for a full day of exploring all the countryside sights here. Think: hills that look like chocolate, and a visit to Tarsier Sanctuary with cute tree-hugging monkeys... And for lunch? Oh, not much, just a delicious 8-course meal of the freshest-ever Filipino food.
Day 6: Bohol To Panglao
Location: Bohol
Accommodation Name: Regent's Park Resort (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Bye-bye Bohol. A dolphin-watching adventure awaits us.One afternoon. Two islands. Plenty of seaside stunners to discover. So hop on the boat for our first stop - Pamilacan Island for snorkelling around the vibrant corals. Keep your eyes peeled for playful dolphins as we cruise through the ocean. Then, we’ll settle down on Virgin Island to catch the golden sunset over the turquoise waters. What a day!
Day 7: Panglao
Location: Panglao
Accommodation Name: Regent's Park Resort (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
All good things in life are free - just like this day. Unwind on the white-sand beach. Get pampered with a massage. Sample local eats. Go snorkelling in the sparkling sea. Do what you please. Rest & relaxation never looked this good…
Day 8: Panglao To Boracay Via Cebu City
Location: Boracay
Accommodation Name: Paradise Garden Resort Hotel Boracay (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Shh, no need to shed tears just yet. We’re heading back to Cebu City today - but only to catch a flight to another sun-kissed island. Fasten your seatbelts and get ready for the final stop of our eastern island adventure. Boracay’s our home base for the next couple of days, and it’s probably one of the most popular ones out here too. So check into your rooms and enjoy a free evening with your fam, here in this sun-kissed paradise.
Day 9: Boracay
Location: Boracay
Accommodation Name: Paradise Garden Resort Hotel Boracay (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
You thought our island hopping adventure was over? Heck no. Suit up for an island hopping day trip! We’ll stop by at plenty of show-stopping spots with crystal clear waters, hidden coves and snorkelling opportunities before heading back to our hotel to rest up.
Day 10: Boracay To Puerto Princesa
Location: Puerto Princesa
Accommodation Name: Palawan Uno Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Boracay, you've been beautiful. With 4 show-stopping islands ticked off our lists, it's time for season two of our journey - this time in Palawan!We're here. We've arrived in Palawan. And we're so so ready for more. Dinner's on us tonight, so come hungry!
Day 11: Puerto Princesa To Port Barton Via Underground River
Location: Puerto Princesa
Accommodation Name: Ferellee Beachfront Inn (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Morning, sunshine lovers! Today’s the first full day on this wonderful island, so you know we’re starting with a bang. You’ll grab some breakfast at the hotel and head straight to the Subterranean River National Park for a fascinating underground endeavour. Ready? Put on your neon helmets. For your very first adventure, you’ll float through an aquamarine river into one of the most complex cave systems in the world. Surrounded by intricate limestone formations (some of them egg-shaped too!) - you’ll have no doubt about why this glorious landscape is an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bet your eyes are pleased with those gorgeous views. Now it's time to please our tummies - as part of a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. You’ll stop by at Nanay Elena’s House for a traditional Filipino meal, made using only the freshest ingredients (that she grows in her own farm!). Afterwards, drop your bags at our beachfront hotel. Relax on the shore. Explore the tiny town. The night is still young, and it’s all yours!
Day 12: Port Barton
Location: Port Barton
Accommodation Name: Ferellee Beachfront Inn (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Need your beauty sleep? Or just need to spend some time on the sandy beach? Today’s the day you can do anything you want. Dive into the crystal blue waters. Grab a book and soak in the sun. Go on a morning hike to check out the rocky hills. Or make your own rings & bracelets in a local workshop. Either way, sublime beach vibes are guaranteed here.
Day 13: Port Barton
Location: Port Barton
Accommodation Name: Ferellee Beachfront Inn (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Ocean-lovers, unite! Today, we’re going island hopping in our very own private boat. You’ll swim with sea turtles. Snorkel along the vibrant reefs. Grab a scrumptious locally-cooked meal. Dodge waves at the beach. And chill at a starfish sandbar (with your newly-made best friends, of course) as the sun sets over the serene sea. Is this island exploration done right or what?
Day 14: Port Barton To El Nido
Location: El Nido
Accommodation Name: Coral Cliff (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
It’s time to bid farewell to our (now) favourite island stop. But don’t worry, there are plenty more destinations here to give it competition. You’ll start the day with some breakfast at the hotel and with no time to waste, head to the next turquoise-tinted spot. A free afternoon to spend in another wonderful tropical paradise? How lucky are we? Taste the local street food. Or check out the unique shops around town. Oh, and please don’t forget to charge your camera!
Day 15: El Nido
Location: El Nido
Accommodation Name: Coral Cliff (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Rise and shine folks. It’s time to hit the road (just like the locals) in a wonderfully colourful, classic Jeepney. First stop? The beautiful Lio Beach. Enjoy the peaceful views and walk the wooden footpath that leads into the ocean. And it doesn’t end there. Next, we’ll head to Bulalacao Waterfalls. It’s gonna be really hard to stop yourself from taking a plunge into the enigmatic milky-white water. The day is not complete yet, we’ll head to the most popular beach in all of Palawan (and maybe even the Philippines, if you ask us) - Nacpan Beach. Finally, we'll end the day at Las Cabanas - one of the best sunset points in the ENTIRE country.
Day 16: El Nido
Location: El Nido
Accommodation Name: Coral Cliff (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
It’s not often you get an entire day in a palm tree paradise to spend just the way you please. But the stars must’ve aligned, because today is one of them! You can explore the pristine white-sand beaches while the sun’s out and spend the night chilling with your crew. It’s a ‘you do you’ kinda day.
Day 17: El Nido To Island Special Stay
Location: El Nido
Accommodation Name: The Isla Experience
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mabuhay, travellers! The sun has risen, and so has the opportunity to explore another destination with crystal clear water. Munch on your final El Nido meal before we catch a boat-transfer. This is what you’ve been waiting for. You’ll drop your bags off at our Special Stay, our next MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experience where we'll spend time exploring local culture - something straight outta a storybook. Afterwards, you’ll snorkel under the crystal blue water and explore a local shipwreck! We’ll then head to another authentic Filipino experience. Delicious local food served on a long banana leaf across the table devoured with your hands AKA a boodle fight. Finally, we'll light up a soothing bonfire and end the day resting on the shores (next to our rustic beach huts).
Day 18: Island Special Stay To El Nido
Location: El Nido
Meals Included: Breakfast
Ah, the final day is here. Make the most of your last meal in this wonderful marine ecstasy. Because we’re heading straight to El Nido. Our island exploration has come to an end. Goodbyes are due. Contacts are shared. Tears are shed. New friends are tagged on insta stories. And perhaps, plans are made to meet again at another destination to reminisce about these unforgettable island hopping memories (and make some new ones too!)
What's Included
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Meals
The tour includes 3 dinners, 17 breakfasts, and 7 lunches.
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Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at various hotels and resorts throughout the tour, including Yello Hotel, Pescador Suites, Loboc River Resort, Regent's Park Resort, Paradise Garden Resort Hotel Boracay, Palawan Uno Hotel, Ferellee Beachfront Inn, Coral Cliff, and The Isla Experience.
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Transportation
Transportation includes van transfers, boat trips, and flights between islands.
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Included Experiences
The tour includes various experiences such as snorkelling in Moalboal, visiting the Chocolate Hills in Bohol, dolphin watching in Panglao, island hopping in Boracay, and exploring the Underground River in Puerto Princesa.
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Local Experiences
Enjoy local experiences such as a traditional Filipino meal at Nanay Elena's House, a tuk-tuk ride in Bohol, and a Jeepney tour in El Nido.
What's Not Included
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and activities not listed in the itinerary are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities and excursions not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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International Flights
International flights to and from the Philippines are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel across the Philippines with ease, utilizing vans for local transfers, tuk-tuks for countryside exploration, and boats for island hopping adventures. Enjoy flights between islands, ensuring a seamless journey from Cebu City to Boracay and Puerto Princesa.
Accommodation
Experience a variety of accommodations throughout the Philippines, from the Yello Hotel in Cebu City to the scenic Loboc River Resort in Bohol, and the beachfront Ferellee Beachfront Inn in Port Barton. Enjoy stays at the Paradise Garden Resort Hotel Boracay and the rustic Isla Experience in El Nido.
Dining Summary
- 3 Dinner (D)
- 17 Breakfast (B)
- 7 Lunch (L)
Included Experience
- Moalboal: Enjoy lunch with your crew as you try all the quintessential Filipino dishes at this local spot.
- Moalboal: This renowned church is famous for its remarkable architecture. But it's also rumoured to have healing powers! You'll have some time to take a leisurely stroll through this grand church and delve into the fascinating stories it holds.
- Moalboal: Put on your snorkelling gear and get ready to witness an ultra rare phenomenon. You'll have the chance to see the incredible spectacle of hundreds (if not thousands) of sardines gathering 'round in the clear blue water. Plus, we'll visit even more white-sand spots like Pescador Island, Panagsama Beach.
- Moalboal: Dip your toes (and take those photo dump snaps) in the cool blue waters of Kawasan Falls, Alergria Waterfall & Aguinid Falls. You'll also have the chance to swim and trek around.
- Bohol: Hop on for a Tuk Tuk ride & feel the refreshing breeze on your face as we hit the countryside of Bohol for a full day tour, passing by Mahogany forests, hanging bridges and landscapes so tranquil, you'll probably find inner peace.
- Bohol: Check out one of Bohol's most iconic attractions - the perfectly-domed landscape of the Chocolate Hills. (Just try to not lick your screen when you're taking pics...)
- Bohol: Come see the world's smallest primates in their natural habitat. The tarsiers here are taken care of by experts, and the sanctuary even has a research centre that works towards improving the life of these endangered creatures. It's an...eye-widening experience.
- Bohol: Welcome to 'The Farmacy'. Here, you'll get to try the freshest farm-to-table lunch, made with ingredients grown on site, or in villages nearby. Expect different flavours with every course alongside a spread of juices and teas. Yum!
- Panglao: Get ready for magical encounters with sealife (think: corals, fishes, dolphins) as we jump on a boat trip to visit Virgin Island & Pamilacan Island for snorkelling & sunsets.
- Boracay: Ride in style as we hit the skies for a quick transfer to another incredible island - Boracay.
- Puerto Princesa: Get comfy in your included flight from the east to west of the Philippines.
- Underground River: Cruise through the serene Subterranean River National Park into a kaleidoscope of pointy limestone caves. Don't miss the chance to watch the 8.2 km long river flow directly into the ocean.
- Port Barton: Wanna get a taste of Grandma’s home-cooked food the Filipino way? Join Nanay Elena for a traditional meal made from locally-grown ingredients.
- Port Barton: Want some Filipino keepsakes that you’ll never wanna take off? Here you'll have the chance to support a local workshop in Port Barton and learn how to make your own rings and bracelets.
- Port Barton: Snorkel, swim, and dine - get your ocean fix on this island hopping day trip. You’ll visit two tropical islands, gorge on delicious seafood. And possibly even swim with turtles!
- El Nido: Not riding on the colourfully chaotic Jeepney when in the Philippines? Now that should be considered a crime. Hop onto a private Jeepney for a tour of the wonderful beaches and waterfalls.
- El Nido: Take a walk on the perfectly curved Nacpan Beach. Sink your feet into the golden-white sand. Or dip them into the cool water - it's a feast for your eyes, feet and soul.
- El Nido: Watch the shiny smooth water tearing through the rocky hills of Bulalacao. Don’t forget your swimsuit. This spot is famous for its insta-worthy pictures.
- Port Barton: Cameras at the ready! Be prepared to witness the bewitching beauty of the sunset at Las Cabanas - arguably one of the best sunset spots in the Philippines.
- Island Special Stay: Support the locals with marine conservation, education and their eco garden while you get irresistible beach-side views. Talk about a win-win!
- Island Special Stay: Love sea exploration? You're going to love this shipwreck site that is just off the coast of our island home. Here, you'll discover the history and secrets of WWII ships.
- Island Special Stay: It’s time to get dirty (in the best way possible). Join a traditional Kamayan or a boodle fight, where you'll eat a communal feast served on long banana leaves with your hands.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experience can I expect on the first day of the tour?
On the first day of the tour, you will meet your crew in Cebu and enjoy your first meal of the trip, which is complimentary.
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What activities are planned in Moalboal?
In Moalboal, you will have the opportunity to snorkel and witness the rare sardine run, visit a mystical church, and enjoy the local white-sand beaches.
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What can I expect during the visit to Bohol?
In Bohol, you will explore the countryside on a tuk-tuk, visit the Chocolate Hills, and see tarsiers at the Tarsier Sanctuary. You will also enjoy an 8-course meal of fresh Filipino food.
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What is the highlight of the visit to the Underground River?
The highlight of the visit to the Underground River is a boat ride through the Subterranean River National Park, where you will see intricate limestone formations and experience one of the most complex cave systems in the world.
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What is the 'Island Special Stay' experience?
The 'Island Special Stay' experience includes exploring local culture, snorkeling under crystal blue water, exploring a local shipwreck, and enjoying a traditional Filipino boodle fight meal.
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What activities are available in Port Barton?
In Port Barton, you can relax on the beach, go on a morning hike, participate in a local workshop to make rings and bracelets, and enjoy island hopping with opportunities to snorkel and swim with sea turtles.
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What is special about the visit to El Nido?
In El Nido, you will ride in a classic Jeepney to visit beautiful beaches and waterfalls, including Lio Beach and Nacpan Beach, and enjoy one of the best sunset points at Las Cabanas.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Why book with Barrhead?
Fully Protected
All our holidays are fully financially protected.
Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.
Range
Our bespoke holidays are tailor-made to suit your personal requirements.
We can book flights, rail journeys, accommodation, cruises, attraction tickets and much more.
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
Expert Knowledge
We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.
Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.
Trusted Agent
Multi award-winning agency with almost 50 years experience.
Rated 4.9/5 on Trustpilot – the highest-rated high-street travel agent.
We look after you every step of the way.
