12 Days Philippines Palawan Adventure Tour (Manila - Coron - El Nido)

Kumusta! Welcome to Manila, the capital of the Philippines! Upon your arrival at the airport in Manila, the tour guide and driver will meet you at the exit, and then escort you to the hotel . You can have a good rest for the jet leg in your hotel or visit around to explore for more on your own.

Known as the “Pearl of the Orient”, Manila is often the jump-off point to the country's incredible beaches, stunning islands, and unique natural wonders. Manila is an excellent hub for experiencing Philippine culture, history, shopping, and nightlife. Take your time to explore its lively streets, buildings, and people, who are full of energy.

Arrival Ideas:
The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), originally known as Manila International Airport (MIA), is the largest airport in the Philippines. Currently, there are over 30 direct flights to Manila from various parts of the world, including Singapore, Hong Kong, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, Taipei, Seoul, Tokyo, Osaka, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Dubai, Doha, Sydney, Melbourne, Ho Chi Minh City, Jakarta, Abu Dhabi, Denpasar, Riyadh, Guam, Los Angeles, Hanoi, and more. You can fly direct to Manila from almost every major city in Asia. Otherwise, you may need a layover in Hong Kong, Singapore, or Dubai, with most major airlines in the region offering regular flights to Manila. Philippine Airlines is the only carrier that offers nonstop flights to Manila from the United States. Other airlines that fly to Manila include Delta, Cathay Pacific, Emirates, Korean Air, ANA, KLM, EVA Air, and Qantas. If you need help with Philippines flight tickets booking, feel free to contact us.

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Manila

Manila Airport

Walled City Intramuros

Walled City Intramuros

Rizal Park

This morning, your guide will meet you at your hotel and drive to explore the Old & New Manila City via a visit to Rizal Park, San Agustin Church (World Heritage), Casa Manila, Walled City Intramuros, Manila Cathedral, Fort Santiago (World Heritage), or Memorare Manila Monument .

In Manila, the Queen City of the Pacific, you will first arrive at the historical Rizal Park (Luneta Park), considered one of the largest urban parks in Asia. Here, you can see the statue of the Philippines' national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. after whom the park is named. After a brief photo stop, you will proceed to the Spanish colonial-era walled city of Intramuros, where you will learn about the history of Manila over the last 400 years, tracing its history from Malay to Spanish, Japanese, and Filipino.

In Intramuros, you won't miss the top attractions, such as San Agustin Church, Casa Manila, Manila American Cemetery and Memorial, Manila Cathedral, and Fort Santiago. Completed in 1607, San Augustin Church is the oldest church in the country, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a National Historical Landmark.It is a Roman Catholic church under the auspices of the Order of St. Augustine, and you can view its wide collection of ecclesiastical icons, vestments, and other religious articles. Crossing the street, you'll reach Casa Manila, a museum that depicts the colonial lifestyle during the Spanish colonization of the Philippines. It is a copy of an 1850s San Nicolas House that was once located in Calle Jaboneros and is equipped with oriental and European décor, as well as Philippine antique furniture. If time permits, you can also visit the American Cemetery and Memorial, a beautifully maintained cemetery that pays tribute to the veterans of World War II, with 17,206 graves. Alternatively, you can stop at Manila Cathedral, which is the first cathedral of the Philippines dedicated to the Immaculate Conception, the principal patroness of the country. It also serves as the episcopal see of the Archbishop of Manila.

Finally, you will continue to Fort Santiago, an old Spanish fortress located at the mouth of the Pasig River and one of Manila's most important historical sites. Built by the Spanish in late 1593, it is also the site of a notorious prison where Philippine national hero Dr. Jose Rizal wrote his famous poem ‘My Last Farewell’ and was executed by the Spanish in 1896. Overnight in Manila.

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Manila

Rizal Park

San Augustin Church

Manila Cathedral

Fort Santiago

Today, you visit around Manila on your own before heading to Manila Airport for your flight to Coron. The flight from Manila to Coron is about 1.5hours. 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.

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BreakfastLunchDinner

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Coron

Take a Walk at Lualhati Park, Coron

Sea View from Lualhati Park in Coron

After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel. You are going to explore the awe-inspiring cultural and scenic attractions in Coron Town Area. Your amazing day begins!

Your first stop on this exhilarating excursion is 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.

Second, hop on a scenic 30-minute tricycle ride to the Maquinit Hot Spring, a natural wonder that is sure to leave you spellbound. Located along the picturesque southern coast of Busuanga Island, Maquinit Hot Spring is one of the very few saltwater hot springs in the world. It is said that the water gets heated by a volcano and springs up into the two-tiered circular pool. (Optional Activity: Plunge in and let the 40-degree Celsius waters soothe your muscles.)

Next, you will be followed to visit Cashew Factory which are known to be the best “pasalubong”. Coron is famous for its delectable cashew nuts, and the factory offers a unique opportunity to witness the entire roasting and packaging process firsthand.

Then, move to make your way to the serene San Agustin Parish Church, the only Catholic Church in the area. This historic structure was built in 1901 and has been restored several times over the years. Despite its central location in the bustling town center, the church exudes a sense of tranquility that is sure to soothe your soul. Once you've had your fill of peaceful contemplation, take a leisurely stroll to the vibrant Town Center. This bustling hub of activity is the heart of Coron's commercial district, where you can sample local cuisine or simply soak up the lively atmosphere.

After that, it’s time to unwind and relax at the Lualhati Park which is Coron's baywalk. It is part of the reclaimed space which the government established to serve as the main anchorage for boats and ships traveling in and out of Coron. It is said that this place was erected in tribute of the town mayor's mother. Take a moment to breathe in the fresh sea air and savor the peace and tranquility of this idyllic location. Afterward, you will head to the souvenir shop to buy trinkets and local treats for your loved ones back home.

After the tour, be transferred to your hotel in Coron Town.

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Coron

Hike Up to Mt. Tapyas, Coron

Coron's Mt. Tapyas Panoramic View

San Agustin Parish Church, Coron

San Agustin Parish Church, Coron

After breakfast, your guide will pick you 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.

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.

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.

Then, be followed a trip to Two Peaks Coral Garden, a better and more beautiful underwater world protected by Coron. The underwater coral reefs here are complete in variety, huge in area, rich in color and strange in layout, which are among the best in the world. It provides you with a fantastic view of aqua life - coral reefs, giant clams, giant turtles, lots of very colourful fishes and marine life.

The last 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.

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

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BreakfastLunchDinner

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Coron

Explore Idyllic Kayangan Lake

Coron CYC Beach

Two Peaks Coral Garden, Coron

Two Peaks Coral Garden, Coron

On this day, after breakfast, your guide will pick you up at your hotel in Coron Town and take you to enjoy Coron Island Hopping Tour B to Twin Lagoon.

The first stop today is Barracuda Lake. Located on the north shore of Coron Island in the Philippines, Barracuda Lake is widely regarded as one of the most unique diving experiences in the world. It's occasionally referred to as Luluyuan Lake by the locals, and its crystal blue waters, hidden between majestic rocky formations, create a surreal and tranquil atmosphere. It offers divers the chance to experience a thermocline and halocline unlike anywhere else. As a combination of 70% freshwater and 30% saltwater, this natural wonder provides an otherworldly sensation as you pass through the thermocline and feel the temperature shift around you.

Second, head to view the stunning Twin Lagoon. It is called Twin Lagoons as there are two lakes which are separated with a rugged piece of limestone rock. The first lagoon is filled with saltwater while the second lagoon is filled with freshwater. You can experience the varying water temperatures or try swim, snorkel, or kayak in the Twin Lagoon.

Afterward, explore the Banol Beach, a small stretch of sandy white beach where lunch is usually served during Coron Island Hopping Tour. Banol Beach is a public beach, surrounded by a majestic backdrop of limestone cliffs, similar to the beaches in Coron Island.

This afternoon, get ready to have some fun at Skeleton Wreck. Located on the northwest corner of Coron Island, Skeleton Wreck is a popular dive site that's also great for snorkeling. The wreck rests at a depth of 5 to 22 meters at the stern, making it easy to spot from just off the shore. As you snorkel, you'll be treated to an abundance of colorful fish, creating a stunning underwater world to explore.

After the tour, be transferred to your hotel in Coron Town.

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BreakfastLunchDinner

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Coron

Barracuda Lake, Coron

Swim in Barracuda Lake

Banul Beach in Coron

Skeleton Wreck, Coron

After breakfast, you 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.

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Coron

Pass Island, Coron

Take Fantastic Pictures of Lusong Coral Garden

Lusong Gunboat, Coron

Dive and Explore East Tangat Wreck in Coron

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

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.

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El Nido

Seven Commando Beach

Shimizu Island

Entalula Island

Snake Island

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 (El Nido 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 will 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 will 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 will 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.

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El Nido

Big Lagoon

Secret Lagoon

Seven Commando Beach

Seven Commando Beach

After breakfast, it is time to begin your El Nido Island Hopping Tour (El Nido Tour B) to witness some of Palawan’s best islands and caves. This tour would covers the highlights of Snake Island, Pinagbuyutan Island, Cudugnon Cave, Cathedral Cave, Entalula Island, and Papaya Beach (if time permit). It is an amazing journey that combines sandbars, caves, and uniquely-shaped islands. Furthermore, your El Nido Island Hopping today (tour B) is often less crowded than tour A.

Your first stop on El Nido Island Hopping Tour B will be Snake Island (Vigan Island). Known for its winding sandbar visible only at low tide, Snake Island is one of the most unique spots in El Nido to experience the feeling of walking in the middle of the sea. The island gets its name from its S-shaped sandbar, which connects it to the mainland (Bacuit Archipelago). At low tide, you can walk on the sand stripe between the two islands and admire the crystal-clear waters and white-sand beaches. At high tide, the sandbar is two feet underwater, creating a beautiful sight. Snake Island also offers a quick hike up to a stunning viewing point at the top where you can take in a bird's eye view of the sandbar. Enjoy the views of the white sand stretching out like a long snake, winding its way along the island.

Next, you'll hop to Pinagbuyutan Island (Ellis Island), where you'll marvel at the dramatic towering limestone cliffs that shoot straight up from the sea, topped off with lush jungle vegetation. This gumdrop-shaped island is a favorite destination in El Nido. Pinagbuyutan Island is also known as Survivor Island due to its appearance on the popular reality TV show, Survivor, and it is said to be the inspiration for the movie “The Beach”, along with other beautiful attractions in El Nido like the Big Lagoon and Secret Lagoon. Pinagbuyutan Island is perfect for swimming and snorkeling, as there are some excellent reefs to explore just offshore. Take in the colorful underwater life beneath the emerald-colored water. It's also the perfect place for a lunch break, where you can relax on the long beach and enjoy the breeze under the coconut trees.

After lunch, you'll head to Cudugnon Cave which offers a unique perspective of El Nido's islands through an enormous cavern hidden behind an inconspicuous hole in the limestone wall. During World War II, locals used the cave as a hiding place from invaders. It is also believed to be a Neolithic burial site for ancient Palawenos and settlers from Borneo. Experts have discovered artifacts such as jewelry, pottery, and human bones dating back to the Chinese Song Dynasty (960-1279 A.D.). To enter Cudugnon Cave, you'll need to squeeze through a small rocky hole before reaching the well-lit cave with a high ceiling. Take your time exploring the beautiful limestone and marble walls inside the cave, and don't forget to search the crevices of the cave's roof where swallows (swiftlets) and bats reside. You know that El Nido got its name from the Spanish phrase "the nest", and the swiftlets are the owners of these nests. After the cave exploration tour, you can relax on the secluded white sand beach near the cave's entrance.

If time permits, you can make a photo stop at the Cathedral Cave on Pinasil Island. As your boat approaches the cave, you'll be amazed by the huge cavern with an opening even higher than the Puerto Princesa Underground River. This stunning shallow cave features towering walls shaped like cathedral spires. It's also an important nesting site for swiftlets, whose nests made of dried saliva are the main ingredient in the exotic bird’s nest soup.

You'll also have the opportunity to visit picturesque Entalula Island, which boasts a pristine beach and perfect snorkeling and swimming opportunities. Take in the beauty of the crystal-clear waters and the amazing rock formations, including the free-standing diamond-shaped rock. Enjoy the serene and peaceful atmosphere of this beautiful island before concluding your El Nido Tour B today.

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El Nido

Snake Island

Pinagbuyutan Island

Cudugnon Cave

Entalula Island

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 will 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.

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El Nido

Helicopter Island

Helicopter Island

Matinloc Island

Matinloc Island

Time to say goodbye to El Nido, Palawan of Philippines. It is time to end your 12-day Palawan Tour from Manila to Coron and El Nido. Your guide will say goodbye to you and you will continue on your next destination.

Extension Ideas: You can extend your trip to Puerto Princesa, Boracay, Bohol, Cebu, Dumaguete, Banaue, and other destinations. Please share your ideas with us!

Note: Please be advised that certain sites on the itinerary may be subject to change due to seasonal changes, weather conditions, national holidays, and special events. We reserve the right to modify the itinerary in order to enhance your tour experience in Philippines. Any changes made to the itinerary will be done with your best interests in mind.

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El Nido Airport

El Nido Airport

Hidden Beach

Hidden Beach