One Month Philippines Itinerary | Island Hopping Journey Information (2023)

Are you searching for the final word Philippines itinerary to make your Southeast Asian getaway one to recollect?

Spending one month within the Philippines was merely top-of-the-line choices I made throughout my Southeast Asia travels. And truthfully, it’s top-of-the-line choices you may make too! After my journey, I virtually booked a return ticket as a result of in case you needed to ask me, a 30-day Philippines itinerary shouldn’t be sufficient!

With 7,640 islands to discover, you possibly can perceive why I say a month is barely sufficient, however that doesn’t imply it’s not possible. With stunning seashores, world-class diving, gorgeous landscapes, vibrant music and cultural festivals, and pleasant individuals — a visit to the Philippines will likely be one thing you’ll always remember.

Let’s simply say there’s a lot to see and do within the Philippines, so it may be a bit intimidating. However by no means concern, for I’m right here. I’ll cowl every little thing in my one month Philippines itinerary, from the place to remain and what to see. I hope you discover it helpful, and you probably have any questions, be at liberty to e-mail me; I’d be completely satisfied to assist!

Earlier than heading to the Philippines, I like to recommend selecting up a replica of the Philippines Lonely Planet book! It’s tremendous useful whilst you’re on the street.

Are you able to dive into this in-depth 1 month within the Philippines itinerary? I do know I’m!

One Month in Philippines Itinerary Breakdown

Earlier than we dive into the precise journey itinerary, right here’s a fast breakdown of what to anticipate on this article. I really consider it’s one of the simplest ways to spend a month within the Philippines, because it covers the vast majority of highlights and points of interest!

Manila (2-3 Days)
Coron (4-5 Days)
El Nido (5-7 Days)
Port Barton and Puerto Princesa (2-3 Days)
Cebu Metropolis & Bohol (3-4 Days)
Moalboal & Oslob (2 Days)
Boracay (4-5 Days)

Now the times can fluctuate relying on journey occasions/flight costs, and it simply relies on your journey type. However this is a superb route for a Philippines 4 week itinerary, and will probably be an expertise you’ll always remember!

4 Week Philippines Itinerary Journey Insurance coverage

Should you’re planning on spending 1 month within the Philippines, you then’ll undoubtedly wish to be coated!

Southeast Asia can appear very protected to journey to, however you’ll quickly hear some horror tales from different vacationers you meet. Something can occur, from scooter accidents to water injury and objects going lacking. So, please make sure you’re coated earlier than heading out to the Philippines by taking out a journey insurance coverage coverage.

Getting sick or having objects stolen whereas touring is uncommon, however when it does occur, it may be an absolute nightmare. Having insurance coverage (which is important for visas in some international locations) gives you the peace of thoughts that if something does occur, you’re coated.

I extremely suggest HeyMondo resulting from their intensive vary of canopy for all conditions and journey lengths, their useful app, and honest pricing. The app means that you can handle any claims and entry free help on-line. So that you don’t must rack up an costly telephone invoice whereas overseas!

Nonetheless planning your journey? You possibly can at all times get a no-commitment journey insurance coverage quote with HeyMondo, so you know the way a lot additional to funds to your trip!

Philippines 1 Month Itinerary

Okay, now let’s dive into my full Philippines journey information! It’s very detailed and goes over every little thing you’ll want for a top-notch expertise! I hope you’re prepared for an journey.

1. Fly Into Manila (2-3 Days)

You’ll more than likely discover the perfect offers flying into Manila.

Truthfully, Manila is a type of cities that backpackers like to hate. It’s busy, overcrowded, and soiled, and there’s not a lot to see. Apparently, there’s some respectable nightlife, however I by no means skilled it for myself.

Now I’ve met individuals who truly actually love Manila, however I simply didn’t discover all of it that interesting. Who is aware of although, perhaps you’ll have a distinct expertise and actually get pleasure from your time there!

Regardless of its flaws, Manila is the perfect place to fly into the Philippines for affordable worldwide flights. Listed here are the perfect airways value contemplating to your flight:

Philippines Airways — Gives nice costs for direct flights.
Cebu Pacific — Simply the perfect for home flights, however additionally they provide some worldwide choices.
AirAsia Philippines — They’re rated within the prime 20 most secure low-cost airways in 2023, so they’re additionally value a have a look at.
Emirates — It’s an ever-reliable airline that flies to the Philippines with one cease alongside the way in which.

Though Manila is nice to fly into, I’d try to spend as little time as attainable within the capital metropolis. This Philippines itinerary in 4 weeks is jam-packed, and also you’ll wish to spend extra time in different locations across the county!

However if you’d like some inspiration to your time within the capital, learn my three days in Manila itinerary. It’ll provide you with tons of concepts on issues to do, from exploring Intramuros to wandering by way of Rizal Park.

The place to Keep in Manila

Whether or not trying to save a couple of dollars or go all out throughout your time in Manila, listed below are some nice choices value trying out:

City Garden Grand Hotel: Greatest Lodge. This award-winning 4-Star Lodge in Makati Metropolis consists of an airport shuttle, AMAZING OUTDOOR POOL, and is near close by malls and points of interest. Nice worth for a luxurious lodge! It supplies a brilliant comfy keep to your first couple of nights on this epic Philippines itinerary, all at an inexpensive value! It’s bought glorious critiques and is likely one of the prime picks in Manila!
Manila-Z-Hostel: Greatest Hostel for Backpackers. Nice location, improbable critiques, and an epic rooftop with breathtaking metropolis views! I’ve by no means heard any backpackers say something unhealthy about it!! It does refill shortly, although, so be sure you guide prematurely!

Alternatively, you possibly can learn up on all the perfect Airbnbs in Manila for a extra private contact to your keep.

Manila Day Exercise to Take into account:

If there’s one must-do exercise in Manila — it’s a must to go take a look at Intramuros quarter. It’s the gorgeous outdated Spanish part of the town, and actually enjoyable to discover on foot!

You’ll see some wonderful sights on this majestic a part of city, from Manila Cathedral to the traditionally vital Fort Santiago. Whereas these are the highest points of interest within the area, you possibly can’t miss out on the notorious bastion, Baluarte de San Diego, and UNESCO Website San Agustin Church.

Different iconic locations in Intramuros embody the colonial masterpiece Casa Manila, whereas historical past may be very a lot on the menu on the Silahis Middle. Talking of menus, I extremely suggest visiting Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant for a novel fusion of Filipino and Spanish delicacies.

If this sounds only a bit an excessive amount of to cram into in the future, it’s value becoming a member of this Manila sightseeing tour. You’ll see every little thing this magical metropolis provides on a 4-hour tour by a coach with an knowledgeable information.

After all, you’ll move by way of Intramuros, however different prime points of interest embody Previous Manila and the Metropolis of Makati. It’s a jam-packed day of enjoyable within the metropolis that you just’ll certainly always remember.

2. Ebook A Flight or In a single day Ferry from Manila to Coron Island

The in a single day ferry is at all times the most cost effective possibility for attending to Coron. For some cause, all of the flights to this island are typically fairly costly. If you’ll be able to discover a low-cost one, then completely guide it (however in case you’re a funds traveler – the in a single day ferry possibility is a stable funds possibility).

There’s one fundamental ferry firm in The Philippines – 2Go Travel. I’ve solely used them for this route, however additionally they provide a ton of various routes across the nation!

Word: This Manila – Coron in a single day ferry solely departs as soon as every week on Fridays.

Tip: If you find yourself taking a look at flights to Manila, attempt to guide a flight that arrives on a Wednesday or Thursday. That means, you possibly can probe for in the future, then get on the in a single day ferry on Friday night.

Positively examine for flights from Manila to Coron, although, as it might be good to save lots of the in a single day journey!

Manila to Coron Ferries- Philippines Travel Itinerary

In a single day Ferry from Manila to Coron Island

3. Coron, Palawan (4-5 Days)

Welcome to Coron, Palawan! That is really one of the vital stunning locations on the earth, and I utterly fell in love with Coron!

As a solo traveler, I used to be lucky sufficient to satisfy some superb individuals the very first night time whereas watching the sundown on Mt. Tapyas. We truly ended up hanging out the whole time I used to be there.

There are many enjoyable issues to do in Coron. The island hopping excursions are unbelievable, the sunsets will depart you speechless, and it’s merely a soothing space to spend a number of days!

Listed here are among the prime issues to do in Coron that you just’ll completely love:

Coron Bay — This can be a breathtaking space with towering lush islands and a tapestry of blues within the ocean. With many shipwrecks throughout the bay, you possibly can think about the diving alternatives or off the charts.
Island Hopping — With 1,769 islands making up Palawan, you possibly can think about there’s a lot to find. I like to recommend becoming a member of this Coron off-bay island hopping tour for an epic expertise of some majestic Filipino surroundings.
Underwater Mountains — You heard that proper. There are some magical underwater mountains value exploring in Barracuda Lake. It’s a improbable snorkeling vacation spot, so be prepared for a jaw-dropping underwater world.

Journey Journey Tip: If you wish to be actually adventurous, you possibly can rent a ship driver to drop you off on one of many distant islands and camp there for 2-3 nights. Organize a pick-up time, and also you’ll dwell an actual Robinson Crusoe expertise with untouched seashores and area galore. Be sure to carry sufficient meals, water, and a very good guide or two!

Take a look at this enjoyable Youtube video for a number of extra must-visit locations throughout your journey to Coron!

The place To Keep in Coron

From personal island luxurious resorts to funds backpacker hostels, there’s a cushty place to remain for individuals of all budgets! I’ve truly written an entire separate article for individuals to seek out the perfect place, so examine where to stay in Coron for a bit extra element.

However for the lowdown, listed below are the highest accommodations and hostels you possibly can guide:

Hop Hostel: CORON HOSTEL WITH THE BEST SOCIAL ATMOSPHERE. Escape to a tropical paradise with out sacrificing the consolation of house. It’s the right launch pad for a wide ranging time within the Calamian islands with the spacious comforts of a lodge on the value of a hostel. It’s conveniently situated within the Coron metropolis middle, so all the principle island attracts are a stone’s throw away.
Coron Soleil Garden Resort: THE BEST OVERALL CORON HOTEL RESORT & VALUE FOR MONEY. If it’s an indulgent and splendid keep you search, look no additional than this worry-free resort. They cater to all of your potential wants and needs, so you possibly can count on every little thing, together with meals, to be prepared for you.
Club Paradise Resort Palawan: THE MOST UNIQUE LUXURY CORON RESORT. I extremely suggest this dream vacation spot for an easy escape to a 4-star resort.

4. El Nido, Palawan (5-7 Days)

If you find yourself in Coron, you’ll see tons of various indicators for transportation to El Nido. Attempt to cut price them all the way down to a less expensive value as a result of all of the indicators are way more costly.

Should you go to the place the boats depart within the morning, you possibly can truly snag a greater deal (however it additionally may promote out relying on the season). You may additionally search for flights from Coron to El Nido, however these are typically costly as properly (so it simply relies on your journey funds).

El Nido is the crown jewel of Palawan and is a must-see vacation spot throughout your go to to the Philippines.

It’s a extra vigorous space than Coron, with some improbable eating places and enjoyable bars to take a look at at night time. You are able to do some day journeys to close by islands, do some climbing, or simply sit back on the seaside.

However as you in all probability know by now, an important factor you do whereas in El Nido is to guide an island hopping tour or two.

Listed here are the three fundamental excursions I like to recommend you select from:

Now I’d strongly suggest trying out each excursions A & C. Whereas all of the excursions are superb, these two, particularly, are value each penny. I had a improbable time on each of them, and I can’t wait to return to El Nido to do them once more!

Anticipate numerous scenic lagoons, pristine seashores, crystal-clear water, and improbable snorkeling that may blow your thoughts!

El Nido Island Hopping A Tour: Uncover the clear waters of Miniloc Island. You’ll discover three breathtaking lagoons, loosen up on the white sand seashores of Shimizu island, and snorkel within the pristine waters of Seven Commando seaside. Additionally, you’ll get an opportunity to see a number of sea turtles!
El Nido Island Hopping B Tour: Uncover Snake Island, identified for its distinctive sandbar in the course of the ocean! Swim and snorkel on the stunning Pinagbuyutan island and see its well-known limestone formations. Go to the Cudugnon Cave, the place locals used to cover from Japanese invaders throughout World Battle II.
El Nido Island Hopping C Tour: Go to the distinctive Helicopter Island, named for its limestone cliffs resembling that of a helicopter. Uncover the Secret Seashore’s hidden pure wonders. Get to listen to the native tales and historical past behind the Matinloc Shrine. Snorkel at Talisay seaside, one other improbable spot to see the fantastic thing about the coral reefs close to the island.

The place To Keep In El Nido

Like all the opposite locations on this 1 month itinerary within the Philippines, you possibly can count on a spread of budget-friendly and uber-luxurious stays:

Happiness Hostel: Greatest HOSTEL in EL NIDO. Probably the greatest-selling and top-rated hostels within the Philippines! The whole lot from the placement, employees, meals, rooms, and way more will present a cushty keep in El Nido!
El Nido Resorts Lagen Island: Greatest RESORT in EL NIDO. Set in a cove bordered by thick forests, Lagen Island Resort consists of an on-site marine sports activities middle, which provides actions like diving, kayaking, and windsurfing, a ravishing out of doors pool, and luxuriously comfy rooms.

5. Port Barton and Puerto Princesa (2-3 Days)

Because you solely have a 4 weeks Philippines itinerary, you gained’t have the ability to see every little thing.

After El Nido, you may hop all the way down to Port Barton for an evening or two. I didn’t do that, however I’ve heard it’s a very superb place with a chilled-out vibe. There’s additionally alleged to be some superb diving right here.

Puerto Princesa is the principle metropolis in Palawan and can also be the place you’ll be flying to as your subsequent vacation spot. It might be a significant metropolis within the Philippines, however it’s truly extra of a diver’s paradise. Snorkeling spots encompass Princesa’s bay, and it’s fairly widespread to see long-nosed dolphins, stingrays, and turtles swimming among the many native boatmen.

Tip: There’s a global airport right here too, so if you wish to return to Palawan, you possibly can fly right here straight from Asia.

One of many fundamental points of interest in Puerto Princesa is visiting the well-known Underground River. I used to be unable to do it throughout my go to, however I’ve heard individuals say it’s value it.

You possibly can get pleasure from this magical landmark by becoming a member of this epic day journey:

Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour: That is the bestseller within the area, and for a cause! You’ll expertise the fantastic thing about the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. It’s an 8-hour guided tour, so count on it to take up a big chunk of your time in Puerto Princesa. You possibly can benefit from the scrumptious complimentary lunch while you’re not exploring the longest navigable underground river on the earth.

The place to Keep in Puerto Princesa

Check out these pretty lodging choices to remain at between your epic island hopping journey:

Blue Lagoon Inn & Suites: Prime choose in Puerto Princesa with excellent critiques. It’s near the airport and provides glorious costs. This one is a no brainer, however it does promote out usually, so be sure you guide prematurely!
Green Turtle Backpackers Guesthouse: Probably the greatest and least expensive hostels for backpackers within the space (there aren’t a ton to select from). There’s an awesome vibe right here, with pleasant employees and glorious critiques to again up that declare!

6. Cebu Metropolis & Bohol (3-4 Days)

Ebook your flights properly prematurely from Puerto Princesa – Cebu with Cebu Pacific Airlines.

With regards to Cebu Metropolis, there are some things to see within the precise metropolis. I didn’t do a lot sightseeing within the metropolis however used Cebu as a jumping-off level to discover the remainder of the island or neighboring islands.

I’d undoubtedly suggest taking the ferry over to Bohol Island. You possibly can spend a day or two there, however it’s additionally an honest place simply to take a day journey.

Alternatively, you possibly can spend the day on Bohol Island exploring Chocolate Hills and seeing Tarsier monkeys leaping by way of the forest. This was one of many highlights of Bohol Island!

Learn: Uncover what makes Chocolate Hills and the Tarsier Monkeys so intriguing.

After you’ve spent a number of days exploring the town and a day or two on Bohol Island, make your means all the way down to some extra of the highlights of The Philippines, like Mactan.

Greatest Place to Keep in Cebu

There aren’t many choices for the place to remain in Cebu, so I’ll simply suggest those that basically stood out:

Best Western Plus Lex Hotel Cebu: Probably the greatest offers you’ll discover for a 4-star Lodge! It’s a traveler’s favourite, with improbable facilities and very good employees. They’ve additionally bought large specials occurring on a regular basis, so hold an eye fixed out for these.
Nacho Hostel Cebu: Simply the perfect hostel possibility in Cebu, this lodging is small however very well stored. The costs are loopy good, whereas the facilities are all prime–notch. PS. The pool is a good place to satisfy new individuals.

Cebu Day Excursions To Take into account

Twin City Culture and History Tour: Uncover the gorgeous mysteries of each Cebu and Mactan on this half-day tour. Discover sights just like the Magellan’s Cross, For San Pedro, Basilica Minore, and way more in Cebu. Mactan provides distinctive areas like a guitar manufacturing facility and the Liberty Shrine, making it a memorable tour.
Cebu Island Hopping with Lunch: Go to some wonderful islands round Cebu with some tasty treats alongside the way in which. You’ll go to the gorgeous Gilutongan Marine Sanctuary and have the prospect to discover the island of Sulpa.

7. Moalboal & Oslob (2 Days)

Getting round Cebu Island is as simple as attending to the bus station. They aren’t essentially the most comfy rides, however they get you from level A to level B for very low-cost!

I’d suggest you take a look at Moalboal first. There’s an unimaginable seaside, and it’ll present completely gorgeous sunsets. It’s additionally identified for having some glorious diving spots if you’re trying to dive.

Absolute Should Go to: Kawasan Waterfalls is a couple of 20-minute drive from Moalboal metropolis and one of the vital majestic locations on the earth.

Learn: Should you’re a water fanatic very like myself, study what it takes to chase waterfalls on Cebu Island.

Kawasan Waterfalls

After watching a sundown and trying out the superb Kawasan falls, you’re prepared to move all the way down to Oslob to cross off an enormous bucket-list merchandise: SWIMMING WITH WHALE SHARKS!

This fundamental draw brings individuals all the way down to Oslob, and you actually must do it! For the small price of round $25 USD, you get to swim with large whale sharks. All the expertise was unimaginable, and it’s one of many highlights of my travels in South-East Asia.

Learn: Take a look at this publish for a extra in-depth look into swimming with whale sharks in Oslob.

8. Flight to Boracay (4-5 Days)

After you’ve explored the southern elements of Cebu Island, Bohol Island, and the town itself — it’s time to guide your flight from Cebu Metropolis – Boracay.

Boracay is the paradise island of your desires — or so it was once. This stunning island has grow to be a significant vacationer vacation spot, so it’s now essentially the most over-developed a part of The Philippines.

With that being mentioned – is it nonetheless value visiting Boracay? Completely sure! The island is beautiful, there’s a lot to do, and the nightlife is superb. Whether or not you select to relax on White Seashore or spend the day cliff diving at Ariel’s Level, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time in Boracay.

Learn: Its nightlife is so enigmatic that it’s made it onto my checklist of the perfect party islands in Southeast Asia.

Should you’re going to Boracay, then it’s best to undoubtedly additionally take a look at Sabina’s unimaginable blogpost “Boracay On a Budget“. She offers an unimaginable overview of the island, and was an awesome useful resource to have when planning my journey to Boracay.

Boracay has two airports (Caticlan & Kalibo). You’ll more than likely fly to Kalibo as a result of flights are considerably cheaper. Kalibo airport has worldwide departures and is the right place to finish your journey in The Philippines.

The place to Keep on Boracay

You gained’t be spending all that a lot time at your lodging, however that doesn’t imply you shouldn’t have the perfect of the remainder:

W Hostel Boracay: With regards to mega luxurious accommodations, the “W” is aware of what they’re doing, however they’ve additionally just lately opened a ravishing hostel, and it’s completely good! There are tons of hostels to take a look at, however I’d undoubtedly suggest this one for a lavish but inexpensive keep!
Boracay Uptown: Discover your superb spot at Boracay Uptown. It’s proper on the seaside with a ravishing pool and provides improbable specials in case you guide prematurely. It will make for a nice and splendid go to to this idyllic island.

1 Month Philippines Itinerary Substitutions

Okay, some locations I visited might not be your cup of tea, however don’t fear. Listed here are some improbable options to think about:

Banaue Rice Terraces: Should you get into Manila and don’t wish to spend too many days there. Look into taking the in a single day bus as much as the Rice Terraces. I didn’t have time to discover it throughout my month, however it’s undoubtedly extremely beneficial!

Skip Boracay: Though it’s a very stunning island and an awesome place to occasion — you may wish to skip Boracay. The island is pretty dear so far as Philippines locations go, and getting there generally is a ache. Kalibo airport is 2 hours away. So it’s a must to take a van, a ship, and a taxi, simply to get to your lodging.

Siquijor Island: Should you skip Boracay island, that frees up time to discover among the islands round Cebu. Whilst you’re down in Oslob, you may jump over to the gorgeous and religious island of Siquijor. The island has an interesting story and is house to among the finest seashores and sunsets within the Philippines.

Siargao Island: Should you wish to surf, then I’m positive you’ve heard about this island. Sadly, I didn’t have the time to get there, however it’s on the prime of my checklist of locations to see throughout my subsequent go to to the Philippines. There’s not a lot else to do on the island, however in case you’re searching for a laid-back browsing hotspot, you then’ll undoubtedly get pleasure from your time there.

Philippines Journey Suggestions

Ebook All Your Flights in Advance: This nation isn’t as simple to get round as you could assume, and in case you wait till the final minute — you’ll have to pay ridiculous quantities for flights. That is the one nation I actually suggest reserving prematurely since you’ll wish to see as a lot as attainable throughout your Philippines itinerary in 1 month.

Meet and Journey with the Locals: When touring within the Philippines, you’ll understand that you just’ll meet extra younger native backpackers than in another nation in Southeast Asia. The Filipino neighborhood actually likes to journey! In addition they are extraordinarily pleasant, welcoming, and sometimes communicate glorious English!

Analysis Festivals Earlier than You Go: The Philippines is thought for having some insane festivals. Simply watch out, typically in case you go throughout an enormous pageant, lodging costs can skyrocket.

Check out Couchsurfing: As I discussed above, Filipino individuals are actually superior and are very energetic on the favored journey neighborhood web site Couchsurfing. It’s an effective way to journey the nation on a brilliant low-cost funds. There are weekly meet-ups within the greater cities, and it might be a very cool expertise!

Don’t skip Palawan: It’s undoubtedly one of the vital stunning and picturesque locations on the earth! It’s additionally not as “off-the-beaten-path” because it was once, so skipping it might be a mistake.

Did I Overlook Something on This Philippines One Month Itinerary?

Regardless of the place you go or what itinerary you customise to your journey, you’ll fall in love with the Philippines. It’s one of the vital stunning international locations I’ve ever visited, and I can’t wait to get again there myself.

So, will you discover Palawan and enterprise by way of the vibey city of Boracay? Or is visiting the quiet Banaue Rice Terraces and discovering the hidden island of Siargao extra your type? Regardless of the case, your Philippines itinerary in 4 weeks is sure to seize your creativeness.

Thanks for studying, and I hope you discovered this one-month itinerary for the Philippines helpful! Positively take a look at my posts on the Philippines!

Secure Travels to the Philippines !!!

Planning a Journey to Southeast Asia…?

I’ve written tons of useful articles, vacation spot guides, and journey itineraries about this superb area of the world! Take a look at a number of of my favorites under for additional journey planning: