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A trip we’re planning, researched in detail.
The Philippines has more than 7,000 islands, and it’s tempting to try to see too many of them. That usually means early starts, crowded ferries and a different bed every two nights. This route does the opposite: four bases in three weeks, with long stays and short hops.
The reward is some of the clearest water and most beautiful scenery in Asia, enjoyed at your own pace.
The trip at a glance
- Route: Manila (2 nights) → Bohol (7 nights) → El Nido, Palawan (7 nights) → Coron (4 nights)
- Hotel changes: three
- Best time to go: December to May, the dry season
- Pace: one boat trip or outing every other day, with rest days in between
- Getting there: there are no direct flights from the UK, so you’ll connect in the Middle East or Asia
Days 1–2: Manila
After a long journey, two nights in Manila lets you recover before heading to the islands. Stay in Makati, which is safe, walkable and full of good restaurants. If you feel up to it, take a guided tour of Intramuros, the old Spanish walled city.
Where to stay: a comfortable hotel in Makati with a pool.
Days 3–9: Bohol
Fly to Bohol and stay on Panglao Island, with its white-sand beaches and easy-going pace. A week here gives you time for a few memorable outings and plenty of time by the sea.
- Take a day tour to the Chocolate Hills and the tarsier sanctuary to see these tiny, wide-eyed primates.
- Enjoy a gentle lunch cruise on the Loboc River.
- Take an early boat trip to Balicasag Island for snorkelling over its reef, often with turtles.
Where to stay: a beachfront resort on Panglao, ideally on a quieter stretch away from Alona Beach.
Days 10–16: El Nido, Palawan
El Nido is the highlight: towering limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons and turquoise water. You’ll fly to Palawan, usually via Manila or Cebu. Some flights land in El Nido itself, which saves a long road transfer from Puerto Princesa, so they’re worth paying a little extra for.
- Choose two or three of the island-hopping tours (labelled A to D) rather than all of them. Tour A, with the Big and Small Lagoons, is the classic.
- Consider a private boat. It costs more but lets you set the pace and avoid the busiest spots.
- Leave rest days in between tours to enjoy your resort.
Where to stay: a resort just outside El Nido town, on a quieter beach such as Corong Corong or further north.
Days 17–21: Coron
Take the fast ferry north from El Nido to Coron, a journey of a few hours through beautiful scenery. Coron is known for its very clear lakes and lagoons, which make it ideal for gentle snorkelling.
- Visit Kayangan Lake for its famous viewpoint. Be aware there’s a short but steep climb with steps.
- Snorkel at the Twin Lagoon and over the coral gardens.
- Finish with a soak in the Maquinit hot springs.
From Coron, fly back to Manila for your connection home.
Where to stay: a resort with a sea view and its own boat trips.
Getting around comfortably
- Internal flights can be delayed or rescheduled, so leave a spare night before your flight home.
- Small planes have strict luggage limits. Check them before you pack.
- Ask your resorts to arrange airport transfers.
Good to know
- Check entry requirements and travel advice on GOV.UK before you book.
- Pack reef-safe sun cream, a rash vest and water shoes for boat days.
- Ask your GP or a travel clinic about vaccinations well before you go.
- Make sure your travel insurance covers snorkelling and any pre-existing conditions.
Three weeks, four bases, and some of the most beautiful water you’ll ever see. That’s the Philippines without the constant moving.
