Embark on a 7-day adventure in the Philippines, exploring the breathtaking beauty of Puerto Princesa, El Nido, Coron, and Port Barton. From the UNESCO-listed Underground River to the crystal-clear waters of Honda Bay, the stunning lagoons and beaches of El Nido, the hidden gems of Coron, and the serene White Beach in Port Barton, this itinerary is a nature lover's paradise filled with unique experiences and unforgettable moments.
Your adventure begins in Puerto Princesa, a city known for its stunning natural beauty and rich biodiversity. The first stop is the Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New7Wonders of Nature. As you glide through the dark waters of the river, the towering limestone cliffs and intricate rock formations create a surreal atmosphere. The river flows through a vast cave system, where you might catch glimpses of unique wildlife, including bats and swiftlets. The experience is not just about the breathtaking scenery; it’s a journey into the heart of nature, where the sounds of dripping water and the occasional flutter of wings create a symphony of tranquility. After the underground river, head to Honda Bay, a paradise of crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. Here, island hopping is the name of the game. You can explore Cowrie Island, known for its beautiful beach and water sports, or Starfish Island, where you can see a variety of starfish in their natural habitat. Snorkeling in the bay reveals a colorful underwater world teeming with marine life, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and adventure. The gentle waves and warm sun create an idyllic setting for a day of exploration. Conclude your day at Baker's Hill, a delightful park and bakery that feels like stepping into a fairy tale. The whimsical statues and beautifully landscaped gardens provide a perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll. Indulge in freshly baked pastries, including the famous hopia, while enjoying the serene atmosphere. The park is not just about the food; it’s a place where families can gather, and children can play, making it a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike. As the sun sets, the colorful surroundings and the sweet aroma of baked goods create a magical end to your first day in Puerto Princesa.
The Puerto Princesa Underground River is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New7Wonders of Nature. Visitors can take a boat tour through the underground river, which flows through a cave system filled with stunning rock formations and unique wildlife. It is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Honda Bay is a group of islands known for their crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and diverse marine life. Visitors can go island hopping, snorkeling, and swimming in the bay. Some of the popular islands to visit include Cowrie Island, Starfish Island, and Luli Island.
Baker's Hill is a charming park and bakery known for its delicious pastries, beautiful gardens, and whimsical statues. Visitors can enjoy freshly baked goods, explore the colorful surroundings, and take photos with the various sculptures depicting fairy tale characters. It is a great place for families and food enthusiasts.
Day two takes you to El Nido, a breathtaking destination known for its dramatic landscapes and pristine beaches. Start your day at Big Lagoon, a stunning natural wonder surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. As you kayak through the turquoise waters, the serenity of the lagoon envelops you. The vibrant colors of the water contrast beautifully with the rugged cliffs, creating a picturesque scene that feels almost otherworldly. This hidden gem is a favorite among travelers, and it’s easy to see why; the tranquility and natural beauty make it a perfect spot for reflection and adventure. Next, you’ll find yourself at Nacpan Beach, a long stretch of golden sand that invites you to relax and soak up the sun. The beach is lined with swaying palm trees, and the gentle sound of waves lapping at the shore creates a soothing ambiance. Whether you choose to swim in the clear waters or simply lounge on the sand, the laid-back atmosphere is infectious. As the sun begins to set, the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors, making it an ideal spot for capturing stunning photographs and creating lasting memories. Your day concludes at Las Cabanas Beach, renowned for its breathtaking sunsets and relaxed vibe. Here, you can enjoy a variety of activities, from swimming in the clear waters to ziplining over the beach for a thrilling view of the coastline. The beachfront bars serve refreshing cocktails, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky is painted in hues of orange and pink, providing a perfect backdrop for a romantic evening or a fun gathering with friends. The combination of natural beauty and vibrant energy makes Las Cabanas Beach a must-visit destination in El Nido.
A stunning lagoon with towering limestone cliffs and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Perfect for kayaking, swimming, and snorkeling. Explore the hidden corners of the lagoon and marvel at the natural beauty. Many tours include a visit to Big Lagoon as part of their itinerary. It's a must-see destination in El Nido.
A long, pristine stretch of golden sand with swaying palm trees and clear turquoise waters. Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and stunning sunsets. Several restaurants and bars line the beach, offering delicious food and drinks.
Las Cabanas Beach, also known as Marimegmeg Beach, is renowned for its stunning sunsets and laid-back atmosphere. Enjoy swimming in the clear turquoise waters, sunbathing on the pristine white sand, or simply relaxing in a hammock under the palm trees. The beach offers various activities like ziplining to Depeldet Island, island hopping tours, and enjoying cocktails at beachfront bars. It's a perfect spot for unwinding and soaking in the natural beauty of El Nido.
On your third day in El Nido, prepare for more breathtaking sights as you explore the Secret Lagoon, a hidden paradise tucked away behind limestone cliffs. Accessing the lagoon requires a bit of adventure, as you navigate through a small opening in the rocks. Once inside, the tranquil waters and towering cliffs create a serene atmosphere that feels like a secret world. Swimming in the lagoon is a refreshing experience, and the unique rock formations provide excellent opportunities for exploration and photography. The sense of seclusion adds to the magic of this hidden gem, making it a highlight of your El Nido adventure. Next, visit Matinloc Shrine, a historic site that offers not only a glimpse into the past but also stunning panoramic views of the surrounding islands. The shrine, built in honor of the Virgin Mary, is perched on a hill, and the hike to the top is well worth the effort. As you reach the viewpoint, the breathtaking scenery unfolds before you, showcasing the beauty of El Nido’s coastline. The peaceful atmosphere of the shrine invites reflection, and the history behind it adds depth to your visit. It’s a perfect spot to take a moment and appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds you. Finally, spend your afternoon at Seven Commandos Beach, a beautiful stretch of soft white sand and clear turquoise waters. Legend has it that the beach is named after seven soldiers who were stranded here during World War II, adding a touch of history to its allure. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and even beach volleyball. As you relax under the shade of coconut trees, the gentle breeze and the sound of waves create a perfect escape. The laid-back atmosphere and stunning scenery make Seven Commandos Beach a fantastic way to wrap up your day in El Nido.
A hidden gem accessible through a small opening in the limestone rocks. Inside, you'll find a tranquil lagoon surrounded by towering cliffs. Swimming and exploring the unique rock formations are popular activities. The Secret Lagoon offers a sense of adventure and seclusion.
Matinloc Shrine is a historic site in El Nido located on Matinloc Island. The shrine offers panoramic views of the surrounding islands and is a popular spot for photography. Visitors can explore the shrine and learn about its history and significance. It is a peaceful and scenic destination.
A beautiful beach with soft white sand, clear turquoise waters, and towering coconut trees. Swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball are popular activities. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and stunning scenery. Legend says it's named after seven soldiers who were stranded here.
Your journey continues in Coron, where the natural beauty is simply breathtaking. Start your day at Kayangan Lake, often regarded as one of the cleanest lakes in the Philippines. The hike to the viewpoint offers a rewarding perspective of the lake, surrounded by limestone cliffs and lush greenery. As you descend to the water, the crystal-clear surface invites you for a refreshing swim. The tranquility of the lake, combined with its stunning surroundings, creates a perfect setting for relaxation and exploration. Snorkeling in the lake reveals a vibrant underwater world, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Next, head to Twin Lagoon, a unique natural wonder where two lagoons are separated by a limestone wall. The experience of swimming through the small opening to access the other lagoon is exhilarating. Surrounded by towering cliffs, the second lagoon offers a sense of seclusion and serenity. The contrast between the warm surface water and the cooler depths below creates a fascinating thermocline effect, making it a popular spot for swimming and kayaking. The beauty of Twin Lagoon is captivating, and the experience of exploring its hidden corners is unforgettable. Conclude your day at Maquinit Hot Spring, a unique saltwater hot spring located near Coron town. After a day of adventure, soaking in the warm waters surrounded by mangrove trees is the perfect way to unwind. The therapeutic benefits of the hot spring, heated by a nearby volcano, provide a relaxing escape. As the sun sets, the natural beauty of the surroundings enhances the experience, creating a peaceful atmosphere. The combination of adventure and relaxation makes this a memorable end to your day in Coron.
Kayangan Lake is known for its crystal-clear waters surrounded by limestone cliffs, making it a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling. Visitors can also hike up to a viewpoint overlooking the lake for stunning panoramic views.
Twin Lagoon is a unique natural wonder where two lagoons are separated by a limestone wall. Visitors can swim or kayak through a small opening in the wall to access the other lagoon, surrounded by towering cliffs and clear waters.
Maquinit Hot Spring is a unique saltwater hot spring located near Coron town. It's a relaxing place to unwind after a day of island hopping or exploring. The water is heated by a nearby volcano and offers therapeutic benefits. Enjoy the natural setting with mangrove trees surrounding the pools, especially beautiful at sunset. Remember to bring water and be mindful of the heat, taking breaks as needed.
Day five in Coron is all about diving into the underwater wonders of the region. Begin your day at Barracuda Lake, a popular diving spot known for its unique thermocline. As you descend into the lake, you’ll experience the fascinating sensation of swimming through layers of warm and cool water. The underwater rock formations and diverse marine life make it an exciting destination for divers of all levels. The lake’s stunning clarity and the surrounding limestone cliffs create a mesmerizing backdrop, making it a must-visit for any diving enthusiast. Next, set sail for Malcapuya Island, a pristine paradise that feels like a slice of heaven on earth. The island boasts a stunning white sand beach and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. As you relax on the beach, the gentle sound of waves lapping at the shore creates a soothing ambiance. Exploring the vibrant coral reefs reveals a colorful underwater world teeming with marine life, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling. The idyllic setting invites you to unwind and soak up the sun, creating a perfect tropical getaway. Your day concludes at the Skeleton Wreck Dive Site, a fascinating spot for diving enthusiasts. The sunken Japanese shipwreck from World War II is now a vibrant artificial reef, covered in coral and teeming with marine life. Exploring the wreck offers a unique glimpse into history while providing an exciting underwater adventure. The combination of history and natural beauty makes this dive site a highlight of your Coron experience. As you surface from the depths, the memories of the underwater wonders will stay with you long after your visit.
Barracuda Lake is a popular diving spot known for its thermocline, where warm surface water meets cooler water below. Divers can experience a unique sensation of swimming through different temperature layers while exploring the underwater rock formations and marine life.
Malcapuya Island is a pristine white sand beach with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Visitors can relax on the beach, explore the coral reefs, or enjoy a picnic under the shade of coconut trees, making it an idyllic tropical getaway.
The Skeleton Wreck Dive Site is a popular spot for diving enthusiasts to explore a sunken Japanese shipwreck from World War II. The wreck is now covered in coral and teeming with marine life, offering a unique underwater experience for divers of all levels.
Your adventure continues in Port Barton, a hidden gem known for its tranquil beaches and lush landscapes. Begin your day at White Beach, a stunning stretch of white sand lined with coconut trees. The crystal-clear waters invite you to swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the beach. The peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal spot to unwind and soak up the sun. As you stroll along the shore, the gentle breeze and the sound of waves create a serene ambiance, allowing you to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of your surroundings. Next, embark on a hike to Pamuayan Waterfalls, a hidden gem nestled in the lush jungle. The trek through the jungle trails is an adventure in itself, with the sounds of nature accompanying you along the way. Upon reaching the waterfalls, the sight of cascading water and the cool pools below invite you for a refreshing swim. The peaceful surroundings and the beauty of the falls create a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It’s a place where you can reconnect with nature and enjoy the tranquility of the wilderness. Conclude your day at Inaladelan Island, also known as German Island, a pristine paradise renowned for its stunning beach and vibrant coral reefs. The island serves as a turtle sanctuary, offering opportunities to snorkel and encounter sea turtles in their natural habitat. Relax on the beach, swim in the calm waters, and enjoy the untouched beauty of this tropical gem. The combination of stunning scenery and the chance to connect with marine life makes Inaladelan Island a perfect way to wrap up your day in Port Barton.
White Beach is a stunning stretch of white sand beach lined with coconut trees, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The crystal-clear waters are ideal for snorkeling and diving, with colorful coral reefs and marine life to explore.
Pamuayan Waterfalls is a hidden gem in Port Barton, offering a refreshing escape into nature. Visitors can hike through lush jungle trails to reach the cascading waterfalls, where they can swim in the cool pools and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Inaladelan Island, also known as German Island, is a pristine paradise near Port Barton. It's renowned for its stunning white-sand beach, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Snorkeling and diving are popular activities, offering encounters with sea turtles and colorful fish. The island also serves as a turtle sanctuary, dedicated to protecting and conserving these magnificent creatures. Relax on the beach, swim in the calm waters, and enjoy the untouched beauty of this tropical gem.
Your final day in Puerto Princesa offers a unique experience as you embark on an Iwahig Firefly Watching tour. As night falls, you’ll cruise along the Iwahig River, surrounded by the enchanting glow of thousands of fireflies lighting up the mangrove trees. This magical experience allows you to connect with nature in a way that feels almost surreal. The gentle sounds of the river and the flickering lights create a peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect way to reflect on your journey through the Philippines. The beauty of the fireflies and the tranquility of the surroundings create a memorable end to your adventure. After the firefly watching, visit Mitra's Ranch, a peaceful retreat offering panoramic views of Puerto Princesa and the surrounding countryside. The ranch is named after the late Senator Ramon Mitra Jr. and provides a serene escape from the city. You can enjoy horseback riding, ziplining, or simply relax while taking in the breathtaking scenery. The lush landscapes and the fresh air create a perfect setting for a leisurely afternoon, allowing you to unwind and appreciate the beauty of your surroundings. Conclude your trip with a visit to the Baywalk at Puerto Princesa, a popular promenade along the coast. As you stroll along the waterfront, the vibrant atmosphere comes alive with food stalls and local delicacies. The sunset over the bay creates a stunning backdrop, making it a perfect spot for capturing the last moments of your journey. The lively ambiance, combined with the beauty of the sea, creates a fitting end to your adventure in the Philippines, leaving you with cherished memories and a longing to return.
Iwahig Firefly Watching offers a magical experience where visitors can cruise along the Iwahig River at night and witness thousands of fireflies lighting up the mangrove trees. It is a unique and enchanting way to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the Philippines' biodiversity.
Mitra's Ranch offers panoramic views of Puerto Princesa and the surrounding countryside. Visitors can enjoy horseback riding, ziplining, and picnicking while taking in the breathtaking scenery. The ranch is named after the late Senator Ramon Mitra Jr. and is a peaceful retreat away from the city.
The Baywalk at Puerto Princesa is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It's a scenic promenade along the coast, perfect for an evening stroll, enjoying the sea breeze, and watching the sunset. You'll find numerous food stalls and restaurants offering local delicacies and fresh seafood. Live music and street performers often add to the vibrant atmosphere, making it a lively and enjoyable experience.