12 Days Comprehensive Philippines Group Tour to Palawan & Visayas

Kumusta! Welcome to El Nido. Upon arrival, meet your driver and head to your hotel for check-in. You can explore El Nido Town on your own freely.

As one of the most popular tropical paradises on Palawan Island, El Nido is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and adventure of the Philippines. This coastal town is home to an abundance of stunning white sandy beaches and incredible lagoons waiting for you to explore. Besides, El Nido is renowned for its stunning sunsets, which are considered by many to be among the best in the world.

Arrival Ideas:
Welcome to Palawan,The Philippines' Best Island. There are two main airports you can fly into to get to Palawan by direct flight: El Nido Airport (ENI) & Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS). El Nido Airport (ENI) is a smaller airport located closer to El Nido, a popular tourist destination in Palawan known for its stunning beaches and islands. You can get to El Nido from Puerto Princesa by car (270km) or by ferry. Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS) is the busiest airport in Palawan. Most airlines offer direct flights to Puerto Princesa from major cities in the Philippines, such as Manila (MNL), Cebu (CEB), Iloilo City (ILO), Clark (CRK), Caticlan (MPH, Boracay). In some cases, there might be seasonal or occasional direct flights to Puerto Princesa from Taipei (TPE) in Taiwan. It's best to check with airlines directly for the latest availability. If you need help with Philippines flight ticket booking, feel free to contact us.

El Nido got its name from the Spanish phrase for “the nest” because of the edible bird nests made by swiftlets that can be found in the crevices of its limestone cliffs. This destination is renowned as the “Heaven on Earth”, and it comprises 45 islands and islets (Bacuit Archipelago), many of which are uninhabited. Enjoy your days in El Nido is with the crystal clear waters, white sand beaches, stunning lagoons, amazing limestone cliffs, magical marine life, rocky islets, and perfect weather!

For the first El Nido Island Hopping tour in the Bacuit Bay (Tour A), you will have fun in the tropical dreamland by hoping to Miniloc Island for lagoons, Shimizu island for snorkeling, and Seven Commando Beach for relaxation.

You may start the world-class island hopping tour in El Nido by a boat ride to Miniloc Island, where you can visit its breathtaking lagoons, including the Big Lagoon and Secret Lagoon. The Big Lagoon is a must-visit destination of El Nido in Bacuit Bay. You can access it by outrigger boat, and during low tide, you can walk or kayak through the channel. Once inside the lagoon, you will be awestruck by the stunning natural swimming hole with emerald green waters, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. Depending on the tide, you may need to scramble or swim through a small crevice on the rock's surface to reach the Secret Lagoon. Although the Secret Lagoon may not be a secret anymore, it remains one of the most photographed attractions in El Nido, offering a hidden world waiting to be explored. After that, you may have a lunch stop at Payong-Payong Beach, one of the picturesque white sand beaches on Miniloc Island. Here, you can either experience the thrill of swimming amidst the strong waves or savor the chill vibe of splashing around in gentle waves.

Your next stop on Tour A would be Shimizu Island, which is renowned as one of the top snorkeling spots in El Nido. Here, you'll have the opportunity to encounter a diverse range of beautiful corals and other marine life. Thanks to its stunning limestone cliffs covered with vegetation, Shimizu Island is considered a representative of the geological beauty of El Nido. Legend has it that the island was named after a diver whose last name was Shimizu. However, it can get a bit crowded during midday as it is also an alternative stopover spot for lunch. Typically, you will enjoy a delicious grilled lunch on the beach, featuring grilled meat and seafood, vegetables, rice, and fresh fruits for dessert.

Finally, you may move to Seven Commando Beach, which has a fascinating story to tell. According to one account, seven soldiers got stranded here during World War II. The beach features a long stretch of white sand lined with coconut trees, providing the perfect spot to have a sunbath and relax. You can also enjoy refreshing drinks while taking in the beautiful ocean scenery. While snorkeling, you may be lucky enough to encounter a few sea turtles, so keep your eyes peeled. After your El Nido Tour A, head back to overnight in El Nido Town.

Are you keen to explore the most beautiful beaches in El Nido? If so, you'll absolutely love Island Hopping Tour C, which takes you to the world-famous beaches of El Nido in Bacuit Bay, Palawan. Today's tour is even more popular than Tour A and has captivated the attention of Hollywood blockbuster filmmakers. Exciting stops at Helicopter Island, Matinloc Shrine, Secret Beach, Tapiutan Island, and Hidden Beach cover beautiful islands, beaches, snorkeling spots, and the uncanny Matinloc Shrine.

Departing from El Nido Pier, you'll first arrive at Helicopter Island (Dilumacad Island), named for its rock formations that resemble a helicopter from a distance. Although some visitors may find it challenging to see the similarity, the island's towering limestone cliffs covered in lush vegetation and pristine beaches are a sight to behold. The island boasts excellent snorkeling spots and underwater tunnels that advanced divers will appreciate. Viewing the colorful corals and small fish in the clear waters is a super enjoyable experience. The island is also one of the nesting grounds for sea turtles living near the province, so if you visit during the right season, you might get the chance to see the release of baby turtles into the waters. With 300 meters of white sand beach, it's an excellent place to swim, relax, and enjoy the beautiful beachscape.

The next stop would be Matinloc Island, home to the unique Matinloc Shrine since 1982. Known as the Shine of Our Lady of Matinloc, this spiritual oasis provides a stunning panoramic view of Tapiutan Island, which lies opposite Matinloc Island. These two neighboring islands form the narrow Tapiutan Strait, home to some of the best snorkeling spots in the area, such as Talisay Beach and Star Beach (with starfish), which are fantastic spots to see the beauty of the coral reefs. After admiring the clear sea and the limestone landscapes and learning the stories behind the Matinloc Shrine, you may enjoy a delicious barbecued lunch before heading off to Secret Beach. Accessing Secret Beach can be a bit of a challenge as you need to swim through a cave to enter, but your guide help you enter this little paradise. Once inside, you can relax on the small beach or snorkel and see some pretty fish at the entrance. It is said that Alex Garland, author of the novel-turned-film "The Beach," lived and wrote his bestseller in El Nido, likely inspired by the Secret Beach's beauty.

Meanwhile, Hidden Beach is a popular stop perfect for swimming and resting. This small paradisiac cove concealed by limestone rock and impossible to see from the open sea. Its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters make it a must-visit spot in El Nido. In fact, Hidden Beach was so beautiful that Survivor Sweden finished their three-month filming at this beach. The Hidden Beach is also a great spot for snorkeling, where you can easily see various species of corals and fish.

After exploring the hidden beaches and shrines on El Nido Tour C, it is time to go back to El Nido town for overnight.

After breakfast, you will say goodbye to El Nido and take a ferry to Coron. The typical travel time for the ferry from El Nido to Coron is around 4-5 hours (127km), but it can take more depending on the weather and sea conditions. When arrive at Coron, your guide and driver will transfer you to your hotel in the Coron Town area for check-in. You can enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.

Coron, known as the "Utopia on the Sea," is a top destination famous for its white sand beaches, World War II wreck diving sites, beautiful rock formations, and unbelievably clear lakes and waters. The town attracts numerous holidaymakers, divers, snorkelers, and adventure seekers to the Palawan province of the Philippines.

In this late afternoon,, you will enjoy a short trek to the summit of Mt. Tapyas, the second tallest mountain and the most iconic landmark in Coron on Busuanga Island. Follow the 724-step stairs to the viewing deck and once at the top, you are treated with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding islands and the charming town of Coron. You can take many beautiful photographs here.

After breakfast, your guide will pick you and your group up at the hotel in Coron Town and take you to enjoy Coron Island Hopping Tour A to Kayangan Lake. You will make your way to the port to board your boat for the day. Indulge your senses as you take a boat to your first stop, the world-renowned Kayangan Lake. Nestled in the heart of Coron, this crystal-clear freshwater oasis beckons with its stunning underwater rock formations, intricate caves, and picturesque islets. It's no wonder that photographers flock to this natural wonder, as it boasts unparalleled beauty and is widely regarded as the cleanest lake in the entire Philippines. As you approach the lake, you'll be awestruck by the towering limestone cliffs that encircle the water, providing an awe-inspiring backdrop for your photos. Beneath the surface, an array of vibrant aquatic life thrives, making it a popular destination for adventurous snorkelers and divers.

Next stop is the breathtaking Green Lagoon. It is some of the cleanest and clearest green water you'll find. A great place to snorkel and kayak. Here, you'll find yourself in shallow and calm water surrounded by some truly majestic limestone structures.

Later, take a boat to Quin Reef, also known as the Malwawey Coral Garden, which is a stunning underwater paradise located in front of Sunset Beach in Coron. It offers a breathtaking display of vibrant coral formations and marine life.

Onwards, transfer to Atwayan Beach, a hidden gem awaiting discovery by avid travelers seeking an untouched paradise. With its pristine white sands, turquoise waters, and small bamboo huts, you can fully relax here.

After, transfer to CYC Beach named after the Coron Youth Club, offering quiet and relaxing beach getaway. The beach has white sand and clear waters, dotted with mangrove trees and rock formations that make for a beautiful beachscape. It is an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.

Finally, enjoy the Coron snorkeling spot known as Las Islas de Coral. This underwater wonderland boasts a dazzling display of colorful marine life amidst a vibrant coral reef. Keep an eye out for sea urchins scattered on the sandy seabed - fins will help you navigate safely. While you're there, soak up the relaxing atmosphere and enjoy lounging or unwinding on this popular rest stop.

After the tour, you will be escorted to your hotel in Coron Town.

After breakfast, you and your group will be picked up at your hotel and transferred to take the activity for “Coron-Reef and Wrecks”.

First, take a 2-hour boat ride to Pass Island, a small beautiful island off of Busuanga in Palawan. With its pristine white sand beaches, swaying coconut trees, and cozy bungalows, Pass Island is a paradise waiting to be discovered. The main beach boasts a long stretch of soft white sand, while secluded coves offer a more intimate and private setting. Indulge in ultimate relaxation as you soak up the sun and unwind on the beach.

Later, continue your exploration at Lusong Coral Garden (also called Sangat Coral Garden). It is considered the largest and best coral garden in Coron, featuring a large scale, a variety of coral species, and rich colors of coral. Explore Lusong Gunboat, a sought-after snorkeling and diving site in Coron Bay. This shallow area boasts a sunken shipwreck at a depth of ten meters, making it ideal for beginners and experts alike. The gunboat, which is approximately 25 meters in length, lies on its side at an angle and its stern can be seen during low tide, offering a fascinating glimpse into history and marine life.

Next, explore Shipwreck, a series of impressive wreck sites for diving and snorkeling in Palawan. There are 12 sunken wartime ships at the bottom of the ocean, the result of an attack on the Imperial Japanese Navy by US Navy aircraft during the Second World War in September 1944. You will have a chance to dive at East Tangat Wreck, which sunk on September 24, 1944 and is believed to have been either a tugboat or an anti-submarine craft. This shipwreck is 40 meters or 130 feet long and 500 gross tons, and it lies listing to starboard down a sandy slope with the stern at 22 meters or 72 feet.

After the tour, you will be escorted to your hotel in Coron Town.

According to your flight schedule, your guide will pick you up and bring you to Coron Airport - Busuanga Island Airport in Palawan, where you will board your domestic flight to Cebu. After half-day Cebu tour, you will take a Ferry to Bohol for overnight.

Upon arrival at the airport, your guide will pick you up to enjoy the half-day Cebu tour to Magellan's Cross, Basilica Minore del Santo Nino, and Fort San Pedro.

You can visit Magellan's Cross first. This wooden cross is said to have been planted by Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan in 1521. It symbolizes the introduction of Christianity to the Philippines. You can take photos, learn about the site's history, and admire the local architecture. Then, move to Basilica Minore del Santo Niño. Built in 1565, it is a Roman Catholic basilica known for housing the image of the Santo Niño de Cebu, believed to be one of the oldest Christian images in the Philippines. Enjoy the basilica's beautiful architecture and the Santo Niño image (treasure of the Philippines). Finally, pay a visit to Fort San Pedro which is a Spanish colonial fort that was built in 1738 to defend the island from pirates and invaders. The fort's walls, cannons, and exhibits showcase the history of Bohol. Explore the fort, learn about its history, and enjoy the panoramic views of Tagbilaran City.

Then, take a ferry to Bohol. Bohol is a main island located in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines. It offers a wide range of options for travelers, from natural attractions to cultural heritage sites and unique island activities. In addition to the cute bug-eyed tarsiers and the majestic Chocolate Hills, there's much more to experience, such as white sand beaches, world-class dive sites, dolphin and whale shark watching, and the generally laid-back provincial of Panglao Island, these are what give Bohol its unique charm.

After breakfast, your guide will pick you up at your hotel and drive (about a 1-hour drive) to Lila town on Panglao Island. And then board a boat for a unique experience of swimming with whale sharks - the largest sharks and fish in the world, typically measuring 9-12 meters in length. The largest individuals can reach up to 20 meters in length and weigh up to 12,500 kg, making them the largest fish species. Whale sharks are known for their gentle nature, slow swimming speed, and often sunbathing at the water's surface. When you have the opportunity to get up close and personal with them, play with them and take pictures, you'll add an unforgettable memory to your extraordinary life. After swimming with the whale sharks, you will be transferred back to your hotel. Take note that seeing whale sharks during this tour is NOT GUARANTEED. Whale sharks are migratory animals, and even during the whale shark season, there is a possibility that you may not encounter one during your tour.

Luch time, you'll board a floating restaurant and enjoy a delicious meal while cruising down the clean and picturesque Loboc River. As you take in the natural surroundings and enjoy a cultural show by the locals, you'll feel a sense of peace and tranquility that is hard to find in the city.

Then, it's on to the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary (Philippine Tarsier and Wildlife Sanctuary), home to the world's smallest primates, the tarsiers (the national animal of the Philippines), which are known for their large eyes and unique ability to rotate their heads up to 180 degrees. Watch the cute tarsiers sleep in tree branches and lazily lounge about, but be sure not to touch or disturb them.

Finally, you'll head to the famous Chocolate Hills, over a thousand cone-shaped hills that turn brown during the dry season, giving them the appearance of chocolate mounds. From the viewing deck, you'll marvel at the breathtaking view of this unique natural wonder, and the hills' unusual shape will leave you wondering about their origin.

After that, you'll be dropped off at your hotel or resort to rest and reflect on your unforgettable experience.

Your guide will pick you up early in the morning at your hotel. You will then be transferred to the boat docking area where you will start your island-hopping tour of Balicasag Islands.

Your first activity for the day is dolphin watching and searching on the way to Balicasag Island. This area teems with diverse marine wildlife, including at least seven different species of wild whales and countless wild dolphins. Take note that seeing dolphins is not guaranteed. If you are lucky, you might see these creatures jumping up close.

After that, you'll head to Balicasag Island. Balicasag Island is a must-visit destination in the Philippines for all nature and marine life lovers. Its stunning 3,000-feet-deep fault, known as the deepest and most beautiful underwater cliff in Asia, is a natural wonder that draws tourists from all over the world. During your visit to Balicasag Island, you will have the opportunity to go snorkeling at the "Rose Coral Garden," an area surrounded by countless colorful coral reefs and tropical fish. Even without diving, you can see a variety of marine creatures, tropical fish, and sea turtles.

Kindly note that some activities may be subject to change due to weather conditions. Your safety is our top priority, and we may need to reschedule or cancel activities in case of unfavorable weather conditions such as strong winds. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we ensure a safe and enjoyable island-hopping experience.

Lastly, you'll be transferred to the seaport in Tagbilaran City, Bohol, where you'll board an Ocean Jet ferry for an approximately two-hour journey to Siquijor.

Upon arrival at port in Siquijor Island you will be transported to your hotel for check-in. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.

Siquijor is located southeast of Bohol, across the Cebu Strait, with direct ferry service connecting the two islands. Known as the "Island of Fire" due to the mesmerizing glow along its coastline at sunset, Siquijor is renowned for its pristine beaches, stunning waterfalls, and rich folklore. The island's mystique is enhanced by tales of mysticism and healing, as well as several historic landmarks.

Start your day with a visit to Capilay Spring Park, a public natural spring pool located in the town of San Juan. It's a refreshing spot for a morning swim and a great way to invigorate yourself for the day ahead.

Next, head to Tubo Beach for some sun and sand. This lesser-known beach offers a quiet and relaxed environment, perfect for those looking to escape the more crowded tourist spots.

Continue your journey to Lugnason Falls, a hidden gem of Siquijor. The falls are not as crowded as others on the island, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful swim in its cool, clear waters.

After enjoying the tranquil atmosphere at Lugnason Falls, visit the Old Enchanted Balete Tree, an ancient and mystical tree believed to possess healing powers. What makes it magical is that a natural spring flows right underneath the trees. Locals do not know where and why water flows but all they know is that it is clean and safe. In front of the tree, there's a pool teeming with "kissing fish," where visitors can experience a unique exfoliation as the fish gently nibble on their feet.

Next, make your way to the historic Lazi Convent. This is one of the oldest and most significant religious structures in the Philippines, providing insight into the island's Spanish colonial past. The ground floor of the convent is made of coral stones while the second floor is made of hard wood with a timber and iron framework. Measuring 42 meters by 38 meters, the Lazi Convent is said to be the biggest and oldest convent in Asia.

Continue your tour to Kagusuan Beach, known for its stunningly clear waters and secluded ambiance. It's a perfect place for relaxation or a quiet swim.

Conclude your day at Cambugahay Falls, one of Siquijor's most famous attractions. To reach this natural wonder, descend 135 steps into a lush paradise. Cambugahay Falls is a breathtaking three-tiered waterfall with crisp, clean, warm water from natural springs. The falls' cascading waters flow about three kilometers downstream, creating numerous inviting swimming lagoons before finally emptying into Lazi Bay. At the first level, you'll discover an exciting feature - an improvised rope swing. These "Tarzan swings" offer a thrilling and adventurous way to plunge into the refreshing pools below.

After the tour, you will be transferred to the ferry station where you will take the Ferry (Oceanjet) to Dumaguete.

In the early morning, you will be picked up from your accommodation and then be transferred to Dauin Port, where you'll be boarding a boat for Apo Island.

Immerse in the rich underwater world of Apo Island, a 74-hectare volcanic island off Dauin, is a top diving and snorkeling destination in the Philippines. It is a pristine marine sanctuary home to 600 species of fish and over 400 species of corals, not to forget the turtles which are just about everywhere in the waters of Apo Island.

Upon landing on Apo Island, get ready to plunge into the aquatic wonderland.  Your snorkeling session takes place at Coral Garden, a snorkeler's paradise known for its lush coral formations and an array of vibrant sea life including turtles, clownfish, and perhaps even a passing manta ray.

After your snorkeling adventure, refuel with a delicious, freshly-prepared lunch on the beach.

After lunch, enjoy some free time. Aside from diving and turtle swimming, you'll be given free time to stroll around the island at your own pace and visit the local community, which has a unique and simple way of life. The island also features a viewing deck that offers a scenic view of the island and the sea. The viewing deck and the path leading to it are both cemented, so you can enjoy a stroll as you make your way there.

Afterward, your guide will take you back to Dauin and drop you off at your accommodation.

On this day, you will have some free time in Dumaguete until your driver escorts you to Dumaguete-Sibulan Airport for your journey to your next destination or return to Manila.

Extension Ideas:

1.If you prefer to travel longer in Philippines, you can extend your trip to other highlighted parts of Philippines, such as Manila, Puerto Princesa, Boracay, Banaue, Baguio, Mount Pinatubo, Sagada, and more.

2.If you plan to continue exploring neighboring countries in  Asia such as China, Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Nepal, Bhutan, India, Sri Lanka, or the Maldives, don't hesitate to let us know. We can customize your itinerary and assist with travel arrangements.

Thank you for choosing Philippines Discovery (a sub-brand of AOT) for your Philippines Tour, and we are always here working for you and hope to see you again for your next trip to Asia. Safe journey!