Philippines Palawan Island Getaway

Maligayang pagdating! Welcome to the Philippines. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight in Manila. If you arrive early, maybe take a self-guided walking tour of the Intramuros walled city, visit historic cultural sites like the San Agustin Church or explore the Fort Santiago. After your meeting, maybe head out with your fellow travellers and try foods like lechon (whole roasted pig) and longganisa (Philippine sausage).

This morning, take a short flight from Manila to Puerto Princesa. When you arrive, you'll instantly see the slower pace of this island compared to the busy capital. Puerto, as the locals call it, is the capital of Palawan and has been internationally recognised as the cleanest and greenest of all cities in the Philippines. This afternoon, visit a local farm and take part in preparing local rice snacks. Snacking (merienda) is a way of life among Filipino rural folks. Tonight, relax by the Iwahig River and watch as glowing fireflies dart in and around the mangroves.

After breakfast, drive to Sabang. When you arrive, jump on a boat and travel along the Subterranean River, which passes through a limestone cave and into the ocean. After lunch, continue to the starting point of today's hike. Lace up your hiking boots and join your local leader on a hike to the Batak and Tagbanua Tribal Village in Sitio Kawasan, set against the backdrop of the majestic St. Paul Mountain. Meet the Batak Tribe – one of about 70 Indigenous communities of the Philippines – and maybe try some fruit directly from the cashew trees (weather dependent). This visit provides the opportunity to connect with the Batak and Tagbanua communities, learn about their traditions, and appreciate the harmony of their way of life within a beautiful natural setting.

This morning, travel to Port Barton – a slow-paced coastal town located on the largest island of the Palawan region. When you arrive, enjoy a free afternoon to explore at your own pace. Maybe hike to the Pamuayan Falls, relax on the white sandy beach or watch the sunset over the region.

Today, set off on an island-hopping adventure where you’ll spend the day exploring the beautiful hidden gems of Port Barton. See crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs and white-sand beaches as you travel to secluded islands like Turtle Sanctuary, Exotic Island and Paradise Island. During your island-hopping tour, step into the shoes of a local fisherman and learn about the age-old fishing tradition in Port Barton, where simplicity meets skill. Unlike modern methods, this technique uses only a hand-held hook tied to a single nylon line (kawil). This region is perfect for swimming, snorkelling and relaxing on the beach shores, so be sure to pack a hat and your bathers!

Say farewell to Port Barton today and travel to El Nido this morning. With a backdrop of marble cliffs and white sandy beaches, El Nido is the base for many island adventures. There are over 50 beaches to discover, all of which are accessible by the boats docked nearby. This afternoon is free for you to explore at your own pace – maybe pack a picnic lunch and head out on an adventure to an isolated beach. Later, maybe join your fellow travellers for a drink at one of the many beachside restaurants.

This morning, head off on a full-day snorkelling trip as you island hop around El Nido. As you travel to the island, take in the surrounding landscape of jagged limestone islands, rocky coves, virgin rainforest and white sandy beaches. When you arrive, put on your snorkel and dive under the clear water, where you’ll see the beautiful coral and many different species of colourful fish that call this area home. After an included lunch, venture out on various trips to lagoons throughout the afternoon. Tonight, maybe head out for dinner with your fellow travellers and toast to your final night in the Philippines.