Planning a travel itinerary for the Philippines can often be quite a task. After all, the Philippines consists of more than 7000 islands, so choices must be made. Additionally, the most popular islands are often far apart, requiring you to puzzle over flights and dates to create your ultimate travel route. We’ve visited the Philippines multiple times and have seen the most well-known islands in the process. Some were fantastic, others less so. With all this experience, we’ve put together the perfect travel itinerary for the Philippines for you. This is the route we find most beautiful and recommend to everyone. But because everyone is different, we’ve also written about other islands you can add to this itinerary at the bottom of this article. So feel free to mix and match, especially if you also like one of the other islands. Wherever you go, a trip through the Philippines is always a unique experience full of surprises!

Tips for Planning Your Philippines Itinerary

Before we dive into all those awesome destinations and the itinerary, we have some tips that might come in handy when planning your itinerary.

Best Time to Visit the Philippines

Try to avoid the period from July to October. This is both the rainy and typhoon season. If you want to be almost certain of good weather, it’s best to travel between January and May. However, there are exceptions because the Philippines is such a large country, and the seasons vary here and there. For example, in Siargao, in the southeast, the rainy season is in January and February.

Visa

Are you staying in the Philippines for less than 30 days? Then you’ll get a visa on arrival for free when you arrive. You don’t need to arrange anything beforehand for that. If you want to stay longer, you’ll need to arrange a visa in advance.

Transportation in and to the Philippines

If you book early, about 6 months before departure, you can sometimes find a ticket for less than $500. Once in the Philippines, you can use tricycles, buses, and jeepneys on most islands. You don’t need to book anything in advance for that unless stated otherwise. Everywhere you’ll find small tour agencies where you can arrange your bus transport. You can travel between nearby islands by boat or ferry, but there’s a good chance you’ll also visit islands that are far apart. Therefore, it’s almost inevitable that you’ll have to book some domestic flights. Major airlines in the Philippines are Cebu Pacific, Air Philippines, and Skyjet. Not all of these airlines are affiliated with Skyscanner or Cheaptickets, so also check the airlines’ websites themselves for routes and costs.

Tip: Book domestic flights as early as possible because they are cheapest then. The longer you wait, the more expensive they get, and the differences are truly huge in the Philippines. You can snag flights months in advance for $30 that cost $100 last minute.

Our Favorite Hotels and Hostels

During our travels through the Philippines, we’ve stayed in numerous hostels and hotels. We’ve compiled the most enjoyable spots into one overview with our recommendations for the best hostels and hotels per destination.

The Travel Itinerary for the Philippines

This itinerary will take you to the most beautiful places in the Philippines in about 3 to 4 weeks. If you want to stay longer or travel faster, you’ll find more tips for fun destinations at the bottom, which you can use to expand or change the itinerary. We’ve written a separate article with tips for almost every destination on this itinerary so that you get a good idea of what there is to do and can decide for yourself how many days you want to spend at each destination.

Manila

Your journey through the Philippines will almost always start in the capital city of Manila. This massive city isn’t particularly beautiful or charming, so we recommend moving on as quickly as possible. However, it’s nice to take a break from the long journey, and Makati is the safest district to stay in. Lub d Philippines Makati is a very good and affordable hotel in Makati. There are nice common areas where you can play pool or foosball, and the rooms and dormitories are very good. This is a great place to relax after your journey. It’s quite popular, so it’s wise to book your stay as soon as possible after booking your flights. When you book here, you can cancel for free up to 6 days in advance. If you want to see more than just beautiful nature in the Philippines and delve into the culture, consider looking into the unique tours offered by Smokey Tours.

Restaurant tip in Makati: Cosmic is one of the best and affordable restaurants in Makati. It’s a bit hard to find, but this is the location. You’ll find the door and stairs upstairs to the right next to the shop on the corner.

Coron and the Expedition to El Nido

Board a flight from Manila to Coron, and your journey starts off on the right foot. One of the most amazing things to do in the Philippines is the expedition from Coron to El Nido or vice versa. Since you’re coming from Manila, it makes sense to take the route from Coron to El Nido. Both places are part of the Palawan region, which has been voted as the most beautiful island in the world multiple times in recent years. During the expedition, you’ll sail with a traditional boat for five days to El Nido. Along the way, you’ll stop at the most stunning paradisiacal islands to enjoy the beach, snorkel, or eat fresh fish. You’ll sleep in a cute bamboo hut on the beach of an uninhabited island, truly getting away from it all. This expedition is for anyone who isn’t afraid of adventure and can do without Wi-Fi for a while. After five days, you’ll arrive in El Nido, where there’s plenty more beauty to discover. Curious about what to do in El Nido? Check out our tips for El Nido.

Optional: Port Barton

After a few days of enjoying El Nido, you’ll travel by bus to Puerto Princesa in about 5 hours. If you don’t want to travel such a long distance at once, you can first visit the sleepy village of Port Barton, which is about halfway. Port Barton is much quieter than El Nido and has a pleasant atmosphere. Here, you won’t find massive limestone rock formations like those in El Nido, but you’ll still have paradisiacal beaches, and you can take a nice walk to Pamuayan Waterfall. We recommend staying in Port Barton for one or two nights.

Puerto Princesa

Upon arriving in Puerto Princesa, you can visit a unique place: the Iwahig Prison. This prison has no walls and is more like a village where well-behaved prisoners are allowed to spend the last years of their detention. This unique system is incredibly interesting, and you can just walk in to chat with the prisoners. They always appreciate visitors. Additionally, they have a shop where they sell items they’ve made themselves because everyone here has to earn their own money. If you go, bring some cigarettes and treats for them. Want to know more about this unique place? Read our experiences and tips for visiting the prison. If this doesn’t interest you at all, you can also take a day trip from Puerto Princesa to the Underground River in Sabang, which is supposed to be incredibly beautiful but unfortunately, we missed it. The other option is to fly straight to the next destination because there’s nothing else to do in Puerto Princesa.

Siargao

From Puerto Princesa, you’ll fly to Siargao with a short layover in Cebu. Siargao still doesn’t see huge numbers of travelers and, according to us, it’s the best-kept secret of the Philippines. Siargao has long been a popular surfing destination, but even if you can’t surf, life here is delightful. Covered with at least a million palm trees, Siargao is surrounded by the most beautiful beaches and exudes a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere. We’ve written an article about the best things to do in Siargao.

Batad

The Philippines is primarily known for its paradisiacal islands, but the country has more to offer. That’s why we’re concluding this travel itinerary with the destination of Batad, where you can find the most beautiful rice terraces in Southeast Asia. First, fly back from Siargao to Manila, and from here, take the bus to Banaue and then to Batad. Batad is a very small, authentic village where you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. There’s hardly any internet, often no electricity, and no luxury hotels. You’ll stay in simple guesthouses but with a spectacular view. Before you go, make sure to read our comprehensive article about Batad because there are a few things you should know before heading here, as things work a little differently. This way, you won’t encounter any unpleasant surprises.

Back to Manila

Then, you’ll travel back to Manila to conclude your adventure in the Philippines. Of course, you can also follow this travel route in reverse so that you end your journey with beach time.

Other Fun Destinations in the Philippines

The itinerary above is, according to us, the most beautiful route for a period of about 3 to 4 weeks. But if you want to travel faster and see more, there are still more fun places to discover in the Philippines. Therefore, below you’ll find some destinations that you can add to the itinerary or replace with one of the destinations already on the itinerary.

Boracay

Until 2018, Boracay was a party destination completely overrun by tourism. It was crowded and dirty, with many touts and Christmas lights on the palm trees. Due to extreme pollution in various areas, the president made the extreme decision to close Boracay indefinitely. The island had to recover, and everything had to change. After six months, Boracay reopened but with many new rules. For example, drinking or smoking in public is no longer allowed, Christmas lights on the palm trees are prohibited, only electric modes of transportation are permitted, and no more parties are allowed on the beach. In short, a significant improvement!

Boracay has one of the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines with extremely blue water, so they’ve become protective of it. However, it’s a small island that’s entirely built up. So you’ll have more of a vacation feel than an adventurous travel experience. It’s not our favorite island, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a few days there. Note: You must have a hotel or hostel booking before arriving in Boracay, as this is one of the new rules.

Bohol and Panglao

From Cebu, you can travel by boat to Bohol and Panglao in just an hour. Panglao has white beaches but is a bit crowded and quite expensive. On the island of Bohol, you’ll find hidden waterfalls, jungle, and of course, the unique Chocolate Hills and the tarsier. It’s a cool destination to stay for a few days and explore the island with a motorbike. Check out our article with tips for visiting Bohol.

Siquijor

This island is less visited than the three mentioned above. It’s therefore pleasantly quiet and easy to visit by ferry from Cebu. Life here moves a bit slower, and you’ll spend your days lounging on the beach and riding around on a motorbike. But to be honest, if you’re looking for such an island and you have to choose between Siquijor and Siargao, we strongly recommend Siargao! It’s definitely worth the extra plane ticket.

The post The Ultimate Itinerary for the Philippines appeared first on TRAVELREBELS.

OUR FAVORITE HOTELS & HOSTELS IN The Philippines

Planning a trip to the Philippines and want to stay in the most beautiful hotels or the coziest hostels? We’ve been to the Philippines multiple times and here we share our favorite spots in the Philippines. From small boutique hotels to party hostels and from resorts to a cozy B&B. Whatever you choose, you can count on having a great time at these accommodations!

Note: We mention ‘starting from prices’. Hotel prices vary greatly depending on your travel period and how far in advance you book. The starting price can therefore sometimes differ significantly when booking late and/or traveling during the high season.

Which destination in the Philippines are you looking for accommodation in?

• Batad & Banaue
• Bohol & Panglao
• Boracay
• Coron
• El Nido
• Manila
• Nacpan Beach
• Puerto Princesa
• Siargao
• Siquijor

Fun hotels & hostels in Boracay

Frendz Hostel Boracay

Do you enjoy staying in a lively hostel? Then Frendz is the place to be! They regularly organize fun evenings here but ensure it’s quiet by around 11:00 PM for those who want to sleep. There’s a nice swimming pool, a pool table, and the location is excellent.

Low Season
Room starting from $35 (€32)

High Season
Room starting from $50 (€45)

More information

Levantin Boracay

Nestled among palm trees and right on the beach, this lovely accommodation awaits. Start your day with a dip in the azure blue sea and then enjoy a delightful breakfast. Sounds amazing, right? You can find cozy seating areas on the beach, such as lounge chairs and hammocks.

Low Season
Room starting from $44 (€40)

High Season
Room starting from $51 (€46)

More Information

Great hotels & hostels in Bohol & Panglao

Fox & The Firefly

Experience something unique at Fox & The Firefly Cottages in Bohol. Stay in a fantastic cottage located by the river where you can take a refreshing dip. This hotel offers various activities such as stand-up paddleboarding, mountain biking, and yoga.

Low season
Room from $36 (€33)

High season
Room from $36 (€33)

More Information

Island World Panglao

Island World is a delightful hotel with a large pool in Panglao. You’ll stay in a spacious bungalow with air conditioning and a comfortable bed. They serve a delicious breakfast every morning, and the staff is incredibly friendly. Pure enjoyment!

Low Season
Room from $63 (€57)

High Season
Room from $69 (€63)

More Information

Fun hotels & hostels in Coron

Hop Hostel

Hop Hostel is a fantastic choice for those seeking a lively atmosphere. Besides the vibrant ambiance and the spectacular rooftop view, it offers a delightful stay. Unlike many hostels in the Philippines, the beds here are large and soft, both in the dormitories and the double rooms. With the rooftop bar, you won’t be disturbed by music in your room. Additionally, there’s a lovely swimming pool with a view!

Low Season
Room from $83 | Dorm from $15

High Season
Room from $83 | Dorm from $15

More Information

Dayon Hostel

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly hostel, Dayon Hostel is a great choice. They offer comfortable double rooms as well as dormitories with plenty of privacy. There’s a cozy rooftop terrace, and the location is very central. All the good restaurants and cafes are within walking distance.

Low Season
Room starting from $23 (€21) | Dorm starting from $10 (€9)

High Season
Room starting from $23 (€21) | Dorm starting from $10 (€9)

More Information

The Bay Area

Located in the heart of Coron, The Bay Area is a must-visit for anyone seeking a relaxing accommodation! The staff is incredibly friendly, you get a delicious breakfast every morning, and the comfortable rooms come with a good bed and a hot shower.

Low Season
Room starting from $36 (€33)

High Season
Room starting from $42 (€38)

More information

Great hotels & hostels in El Nido

Spin

Spin is a cool place to stay in El Nido. The design of this luxury hostel is fantastic, with plenty of art to discover. The large beds are super comfortable, and the shower is nice and warm. In the morning, you get a delicious breakfast included in the price. It’s located in a quiet area, just outside the bustling center.

Low Season
Room starting from $32 (€29) | Dorm starting from $11 (€10)

High Season
Room starting from $54 (€49) | Dorm starting from $23 (€21)

More Information

Frendz Hostel

You’ll find the most beautiful pool in El Nido at Frendz Hostel. While you’re doing laps, you’ll have fantastic views of the sea and mountains. Especially during sunset, it’s spectacular. Besides the stunning view, there’s also a super cozy atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to make new friends!

Low Season
Room starting from $73 (€66) | Dorm starting from $20 (€18)

High Season
Room starting from $73 (€66) | Dorm starting from $20 (€18)

More Information

Great hotels & hostels in Manila

Lub d Philippines Makati

This hostel boasts the ambiance of a luxury hotel, offering a tranquil retreat amidst the hustle and bustle of Manila. Stay in a beautiful double room or a comfortable dorm. In the common area, you can enjoy a game of pool or foosball.

Low Season
Room from $33 (€30) | Dorm from $13 (€12)

High Season
Room from $56 (€51) | Dorm from $19 (€17)

More Information

UNWND Boutique Hotel Makati

If you have a more generous budget, this boutique hotel is a delight to stay in. You’ll enjoy a spacious room with good air conditioning, a comfortable bed, and a modern bathroom. The staff is super friendly, and in the morning, you’ll be treated to a delicious breakfast included in the overnight price. For solo travelers, there’s also a cozy dorm with plenty of privacy.

Low Season
Room from $53 (€48) | Dorm from $18 (€16)

High Season
Room from $53 (€48) | Dorm from $18 (€16)

More Information

Great hotels & hostels in Nacpan Beach

Mad Monkey Nacpan

Mad Monkey is a true party hostel. During the day, you can relax on the beach or go island hopping, and in the evening, you can party hard. If you’re in the mood for a party, this is definitely the place to be. Every night has a different theme, and for half an hour, they serve free drinks. It’s a great place to meet other travelers.

Low Season
Room from $21 (€19) | Dorm from $10 (€9)

High Season
Room from $39 (€36) | Dorm from $20 (€18)

More Information

Nacpan Beach Glamping

This is the opposite of Mad Monkey but certainly not any less amazing. Here, you’ll stay in a beautiful luxury tent right on the beach. There’s also a super relaxing pool with a bar, and the food at the restaurant is incredibly delicious. This is the perfect place if you’re seeking peace and want to completely unwind.

Low Season
Room from $121 (€110)

High Season
Room from $187 (€170)

More Information

Great hotels & hostels in Puerto Princesa

Summer Days

Stay in style and luxury at an affordable price? Then look no further than Summer Days. You’ll stay in a spacious room, and there’s a beautiful garden where you’ll be served a delicious breakfast in the morning. The owners are incredibly friendly and helpful.

Low Season
Room from $42 (€38)

High Season
Room from $42 (€38)

More Information

Hue Hotels

If you’re looking for an even more luxurious stay, Hue Hotels is perfect. You have everything you need for a comfortable stay in this new hotel. Large, beautiful rooms, comfortable beds, and delicious breakfast. The rooftop pool tops it all off!

Low Season
Room from $85 (€77)

High Season
Room from $95 (€86)

More Information

Fun Hostel and Hotel in Siargao

Ferra Resort Siargao

Located in a fantastic spot just outside the town of General Luna, you’ll find Ferra Resort. You’ll sleep in an idyllic bungalow on a beautiful beach. It’s just a few minutes walk from your bungalow to the beach! It’s a short 10-minute drive to all the great restaurants and bars in General Luna.

Low Season
Room from $69 (€63)

High Season
Room from $84 (€76)

More Information

Mao Mao Surf

If the above hotel is above your budget but you still want to stay in a bungalow, Mao Mao Surf is perfect. The charming cottages not only look cute from the outside, but they are also nicely decorated inside with a delightful atmosphere. Additionally, they serve delicious and healthy breakfasts, and you can take surfing lessons there.

Low Season
Room from $51 (€46)

High Season
Room from $51 (€46)

More Information

Hiraya Surf Hostel

Do you enjoy sleeping in a dorm in a cozy hostel? Hiraya Surf Hostel isn’t a party hostel, but it’s a very social one, making it easy to meet other travelers. A communal dinner with live music is organized a few times a week, fostering a friendly atmosphere. The staff members are incredibly kind and contribute to the hostel’s positive vibe.

Low Season
Dorms starting from $10 (€9)

High Season
Dorms starting from $10 (€9)

More Information

Cool hotels & hostels in Batad & Banaue

Batad Transient House

This is a basic guesthouse, but the view from here over the rice terraces is phenomenal. You’ll receive a very hospitable welcome, and the owner can cook very deliciously. This is a very nice and authentic place for a night in beautiful Batad!

Low Season
Room starting from $19 (€17)

High Season
Room starting from $19 (€17)

More information

Banaue Bogah Homestay

The location of this hotel in Banaue is great! You have a beautiful view over the rice fields, and the staff is happy to help you arrange activities in the area. The double rooms are basic but have everything you need.

Low Season
Room starting from $18 (€16)

High Season
Room starting from $21 (€19)

More information

Cool hostel and hotel in Siquijor

Mandala Tribe Treehouses

Experience unique accommodation at Mandala Tribe Treehouses. You’ll stay in an amazing bungalow that perfectly captures the tropical island vibe. The bathroom is open-air, and the bungalows are surrounded by beautiful plants. You don’t even need to step out for a delicious breakfast.

Low Season
Room starting from $53 (€48)

High Season
Room starting from $68 (€62)

More information

Tropical Fun

Tropical Fun is a small, cozy hotel right on the beach where you can enjoy the most beautiful sunsets from your balcony. The staff is extremely friendly, and the food at the restaurant is very good. Additionally, there are free kayaks available for borrowing.

Low Season
Room starting from $39 (€35)

High Season
Room starting from $45 (€41)

More information

The post Our Favorite Hostels & Hotels in the Philippines appeared first on TRAVELREBELS.

If the expedition between Coron and El Nido is fully booked or if five days of island hopping sounds a bit overwhelming, we have an awesome alternative for you. From El Nido, you can travel to the paradise island of Darocotan. This is one of the most beautiful islands in the area, where you can stay in a hut or bungalow right on the beach. This way, you still get that real Expedition Robinson experience in the pocket!

Paradise called Darocotan Island

Darocotan Island is only a kilometer (0.6 mile) long, and it has everything you’d expect from a paradise island. It’s filled with palm trees, the sand is so white it hurts your eyes when the sun shines on it, and the water is azure blue. On the island, you’ll find only three accommodations, all of which have cool huts on the beach. Here, you can entertain yourself by snorkeling at the shipwreck or the coral reef, playing beach volleyball, or sipping cocktails at the beach bar. There’s no wifi, and you’ll be completely disconnected from the rest of the world.

Choose from the three different accommodations

At Isla – The Island Experience, you’ll sleep in a simple hut with a mattress and a mosquito net in a fantastic location. You can swim with the pig Wilma at the 200-meter-long (656-feet-long) beach and in the evening, enjoy sitting by the campfire or watching a movie at the improvised outdoor cinema. Backpackers Island El Nido is quite similar but a bit cheaper. When you step out of your hut in the morning, you can immediately jump into the sea and explore the shipwreck right in front of you in the shallow water. If you’re looking for more luxury, then Dryft Darocotan Island is perfect for you. You can choose between a glamping tent or the romantic huts that look very special and are made almost entirely of bamboo. All three accommodations are excellent in their own way, so choose what fits your budget.

Tip: Book your accommodation as early as possible because these accommodations often fill up well in advance.

Isla – The Island Experience More information

Backpackers Island El Nido More information

Dryft Darocotan Island More information

How to get to Darocotan Island?

Visiting Darocotan Island is easy from El Nido. Transportation arrangements vary depending on the accommodation. Some offer a free shuttle from El Nido to Teneguiban, from where it’s just a short boat ride away. Teneguiban is about an hour’s drive from El Nido and is easily accessible by tricycle or van. 

The post Sleep in a Hut on the Beach of Idyllic Darocotan Island appeared first on TRAVELREBELS.

Batad is renowned as one of the most beautiful spots in the Philippines. The expansive rice terraces and the authentic way of life are reasons why you should definitely include it in your travel itinerary through the Philippines. We are captivated by this unique piece of earth because nowhere else in Southeast Asia will you find rice terraces like these. The small village remains very authentic, and visiting here feels like stepping back in time. There’s hardly any internet, often no electricity, and only a few guesthouses instead of hotels. Getting to Batad takes some effort, but believe us, that effort is 100% worth it. It’s wise to do thorough research before visiting Batad, or else you might encounter some surprises. During our visit to Batad, we gathered all the information and tips, which we’ve compiled for you below.

About Batad

The rice terraces of Batad were built over 2000 years ago, and Batad sits 1500 meters (4921 feet) above sea level. The stones used to build the walls of the rice terraces were carried up from the river, quite a laborious task. These rice terraces are unique because they are built on extremely steep mountains with a unique irrigation system. Batad is therefore classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The oldest residents still wear traditional clothing and live according to many ancient traditions.

Like many other Filipinos, a lot of people in Batad are very poor. Therefore, many young people leave for the cities, where they have more job opportunities. This led to about 30% of the rice terraces not being used years ago. With government support, all rice terraces are now in use again, but they now harvest only once a year instead of twice a year.

One of the unique things about Batad is that there are no roads, and therefore no traffic. Fifteen years ago, you had to walk from Banaue, but now there is a road close to Batad, and it’s only a 20-minute walk.

Visiting Batad

Many travelers visit Banaue without knowing that Batad is much more beautiful and less touristy. They visit Batad as a day tour, which is a shame. We recommend spending one night there to experience life in Batad fully. You probably only visit Batad once in your life, so you might as well make the most of it. Don’t forget to wear good shoes and bring a poncho. It often rains in Batad, making the paths between the rice terraces slippery and muddy. The paths are narrow with a drop of a few meters (feet).

Take a Local Guide in Batad

When you arrive in Banaue, there are dozens of guides asking if they can be your guide. But what no one knows is that the guides in Batad are anything but happy about this. This is because the guides from Banaue are essentially ‘stealing’ their clients this way. Batad has less tourism and therefore the guides in Batad could use your help better. So, it’s better to support the local people of Batad and only take a guide when you are in Batad itself. It’s often also much cheaper.

Batad Viewpoints

Your guide will probably tell you about viewpoint 1, 2, and 3, but there are a few more beautiful viewpoints in Batad. Our favorite is just below the Transient guesthouse, and the path on the right side will take you to a cottage where you have an amazing view of the rice terraces. You can also take a break at Transient Guesthouse, have a drink, and grab some food.

Viewpoint 1: This viewpoint is at the highest point of the village that you pass through when walking to Batad. Not our favorite viewpoint because you also have a view of the ugly roofs of the houses just below.

Viewpoint 2: This is the most famous viewpoint, and every guide will take you here. It’s a beautiful viewpoint, and it’s a fairly easy path to get here. You don’t necessarily need a guide for this if you don’t want to. Walk a little further up past the shop for an even higher view, and if you turn the corner, you’ll also have a view of the nearby village. There’s a sign here indicating a path to that village. This is a trek of 3 hours there and 3 hours (or longer) back. The cliffs on this route are very deep, and if you fall, it can be fatal. So always do the trek to the village with a guide or don’t attempt it at all.

Viewpoint 3: Here you’ll find the most beautiful view in all of Batad. You have an incredible view of the village and the rice terraces. It’s a 2-hour trek to get there, and you definitely need a guide here. First, you walk to the river below where you can swim and cool off. Then you cross the bridge, and from there, you walk steeply uphill.

Tappiya Waterfall

The Tappiya waterfall is also a must-see in Batad. It’s a tall waterfall, around 20 feet, surrounded by lush green jungle. It’s a one-hour hike to get there. One thing you should definitely keep in mind is that there’s a strong current beneath the waterfall. Apparently, there’s a huge hole underneath the waterfall that’s just as deep as the waterfall is high. So, don’t get too close to the waterfall, or you could be pulled into that hole. If you go with a guide, they will tell you this, but if you decide to go alone, make sure you don’t forget this. The waterfall is best combined with a visit to viewpoint 2. They’re fairly close to each other, and you don’t necessarily need a guide for either.

How to Get to Batad?

Most likely, you’ll be traveling from Manila to Batad. The most common way to travel here is by taking the night bus to Banaue. It’s wise to book this in advance as the buses are often fully booked. You can book your tickets through this website. Don’t expect a sleeper bus with beds; this is just a regular tour bus. A one-way ticket costs you 490 pesos / $9, and the bus departs every day at 10 o’clock in the evening. During peak season, there are also buses departing at other times between 9 and 10 in the evening. The bus journey takes about 9 hours, and you’ll make 2 stops along the way. Don’t forget to bring a sweater, long pants, and socks for the bus; it’s very normal for the air conditioning to be set to -10.

If you haven’t booked a tour to go to Batad, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation from Banaue. There are several options for this. You can take a tricycle, which will cost you 350 pesos for a one-way trip. If you’re traveling with multiple people or if you’ve met others who are also going to Batad, it’s cheaper to hire a private jeepney. This costs around 1500 pesos / $27, and it can accommodate about 10 people. It’s more comfortable than the tricycle, but if you’re traveling alone or with just 2 people, the tricycle is a better financial option. There’s also a jeepney departing from Banaue at 3 o’clock in the afternoon, and that will cost you 150 pesos / $3. Make sure to sit on the right side; then you’ll be on the right side to see the beautiful rice terraces. If you’re feeling adventurous, you should definitely sit on the roof. This is an experience you’ll never forget, and the views are amazing! The last stretch to Batad has no road, so you’ll have to walk. It’s 20 minutes downhill and about 30 minutes uphill on the way back.

Tip: Don’t believe everything they tell you in Banaue. You can stick to the prices mentioned above, and you definitely don’t need to arrange transportation back to Banaue. They might try to scare you into thinking there’s no jeepney back, and that you really need to take their jeepney back for 1500 pesos. Below, you’ll find out how to return cheaply.

Returning from Batad to Manila

At 9 o’clock in the morning, there’s a jeepney heading towards Banaue from Batad, and this costs 150 pesos per person. You might have to wait until the jeepney fills up completely. At 3 o’clock in the afternoon, there’s another jeepney for 150 pesos per person unless there are fewer than 10 people. Then you’ll pay 1500 pesos divided by the number of people.

How Long Do You Need for a Visit to Batad?

Batad is incredibly beautiful, but there are only a few things you can do there. Therefore, it’s not necessary to stay for a long time. One night is truly enough to see and do everything. To make your visit to Batad nice and organized, here’s a suggested itinerary.

Day 1
07:00 AM – Arrival in Banaue
08:00 AM – Breakfast in Banaue
09:00 AM – Take a jeepney or tricycle to where the road ends
10:00 AM – Hike to Batad and take a rest in your guesthouse
12:00 PM – Lunch
01:00 PM – Hike to Tappiya Waterfall and viewpoint 2.
06:00 PM – Dinner

Day 2
07:00 AM – Breakfast
08:00 AM – Hike to viewpoint 3
01:00 PM – Lunch
02:00 PM – Hike back to the end of the road
03:00 PM – Take the jeepney back to Banaue
04:30 PM – Dinner in Banaue
07:00 PM – Bus departure to Manila

Where to Stay in Batad?

There are several hostels and guesthouses in Batad. You may find few of them online, but you’ll always find a place to stay in Batad without booking in advance. Transient Guesthouse has the most beautiful view and a good restaurant. The family is incredibly kind, and you have hot water in the shower, provided there’s electricity. All guesthouses in Batad are very basic, so don’t have high expectations for your room, toilet, or shower. Transient is one of the few guesthouses you can book online, so if you want to stay there, it’s wise to book early.

More Handy Tips for Batad

• The hike to Batad can be quite challenging. It can be slippery, and the return is quite steep uphill. Therefore, make sure to bring only the essentials with you to Batad. You can store your other belongings at Halfway Guesthouse in Banaue for 50 pesos / $0.60.

• When traveling from Banaue to Batad, make sure to negotiate with the driver to take you all the way to the end of the road and not stop earlier at Saddle point. This will save you a half-hour walk.

• If you like walking with walking sticks, you can buy them for 10 pesos at the beginning of the hike to Batad.

• There is no internet in Batad, and you’ll likely not have phone signal either.

• Drinks are a bit more expensive in Batad than in the rest of the Philippines. This is because the local people have to carry them all the way to the village. Otherwise, everything in Batad is incredibly cheap.

• You’ll likely have to pay to charge your electronics.

• There’s often no electricity in Batad, so make sure to charge all your devices beforehand.

• The food is very simple, so don’t expect too much from it.

Best Time to Visit Batad

The best time to visit Batad is in March, April, and May because that’s when the rice terraces are the greenest. It’s simply the most beautiful during this time. Other months are still beautiful, but you can expect slightly browner terraces. From July to September is the rainy season, so it’s better to avoid going then.

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El Nido is located in the northern part of Palawan Island and is a popular base for exploring the paradisiacal beaches and islands of Palawan. The Bacuit Archipelago boasts dozens of islands with pristine white beaches, gigantic limestone rock formations, vibrant green lagoons, and an amazing underwater world. Unfortunately, El Nido hasn’t been a hidden gem for years and is now heavily visited by travelers. However, the places are still as beautiful as ever, and there are tricks to still have them somewhat to yourself. Curious about how to avoid the crowds and what else to do besides island hopping in El Nido? We’ve been there several times and have described all our tips, experiences and things to do in this article.

What to Do in El Nido?

While the center of El Nido may be busy, as soon as you step out of it, you’re immediately in the Asia you came here for. Therefore, explore the beautiful surroundings and use the center for entertainment in the evenings and, of course, for the many excellent restaurants you can find here. The following things, in our opinion, should not be missed when visiting El Nido.

Visit the 4-kilometer-long (2.5-mile-long) Nacpan Beach

Located a 45-minute drive from El Nido is the stunning Nacpan Beach. This is a wide sandy beach where you can sunbathe, read a book, sip a cocktail, or play a game of frisbee. There are several hotels and beach bars on Nacpan Beach where you can have lunch or stay overnight. We chose to stay for two nights at Mad Monkey hostel. This is a party hostel located directly on the beach, and if you enjoy a party, this is a very cool place. If you don’t want to stay at Nacpan Beach, it’s recommended to have lunch at Mad Monkey because the food here is very delicious.

Tip: If you want to stay at Nacpan but a party hostel is not your thing, check out Nacpan Beach Glamping. Here, you stay directly on the beach in a super beautiful and luxurious tent.

Explore the Area on a Scooter

If you have some experience riding scooters, it’s great to explore the surroundings of El Nido on a scooter. Scooters are available for rent everywhere in El Nido, and it will cost you about 500 PHP per day. Once you’re out of El Nido, you’ll find yourself amidst rice fields, palm trees, and beautiful winding roads. Beautiful beaches to visit include Duli Beach, Verde Safari Beach, and of course, Nacpan Beach.

Trade Your Flip-Flops for Shoes and Climb Taraw Cliff

Apart from the many beautiful beaches, El Nido also offers something else spectacular: Taraw Cliff. The climb to this viewpoint is definitely not for everyone. You’ll need to climb and scramble over sharp limestone rocks, sometimes ascending steeply for several meters (feet). It’s quite a challenge but very rewarding! It takes about 30 to 40 minutes to reach the top, and the hike is quite intense. It’s advisable to do this with a guide because finding the starting point on your own can be difficult, and they know the safest route. Bryan Hamora is a good guide. You can send him a message on Facebook, and then you can climb Taraw Cliff with him or one of his other guides. He provides gloves so you can grip the sharp limestone rocks while climbing. Once you reach the top, you can peacefully enjoy the beautiful view. Don’t forget to bring about 1.5 liters of water per person.

A Day of Island Hopping with the ABCD Tours

To explore the beautiful Bacuit Archipelago, there are 4 different boat tours to choose from. No matter where you book the tour, they all follow the same route. Almost everyone visiting El Nido goes on one of these tours, so you should be prepared to share the paradisiacal spots with many other people. If you’re not keen on this idea, you can opt for a private tour. These tours visit the same places but depart slightly earlier or later so that you don’t dock with 20 other boats. Make sure to specify in advance that you want to avoid the crowds.

A private tour will cost you around 8000 PHP per boat ($150), and if you join a group, you’ll spend between 1200 to 1400 PHP per person ($20 to $25). All tours last about 6 to 7 hours, and lunch is included in the price. You can book these tours anywhere in El Nido. Below, we describe the places you’ll visit on the different tours:

• El Nido Tour A: Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and Seven Commando Beach.
• El Nido Tour B: Snake Island, Pinagbuyutan Island, Entalula Beach, the Cudugnon Cave, and a snorkel stop.
• El Nido Tour C: Helicopter Island, Matinloc Shrine, Secret Beach, Star Beach, and Hidden Beach.
• El Nido Tour D: Ipil Beach, Cadlao Lagoon, Paradise Beach, Pasandigan Beach, Natnat Beach, and Bukal Beach.

Extra Tour: Tour K by Kraken

Then there’s also tour K. This tour is by Kraken Tours, and it’s a bit different from the ABCD tours. With tour K, you can choose between 2 different tours: combining tour A and B or combining tour C and D. You depart a bit later in the morning and return during sunset. This way, they avoid the crowds, and you often dock as the only boat. Additionally, Kraken Tours’ boats are much larger than those of the ABCD tours and are equipped with a toilet, comfortable seating, and music on board. The food is incredibly good, and the staff works hard to create a pleasant atmosphere. This tour costs 3200 PHP per person ($60). In our opinion, it’s worth the extra money for a better experience!

Kayaking to Cadlao

Opposite El Nido lies Cadlao Island. From the beach of El Nido, you can kayak there. Since the boat tours mostly go to other islands, Cadlao is often quiet, allowing you to explore the various beaches of the island at your leisure. When we were there, we only had to share the beaches with a few monkeys. You can rent a kayak at Boutique & Art Café in El Nido. They rent out both transparent kayaks and regular kayaks. We opted for a transparent kayak, and although it was cool to see the corals and fish beneath us, a regular kayak is more practical. The transparent kayak sits a bit deeper in the water, making paddling heavier, especially when facing the wind. It takes about an hour to kayak from El Nido to Cadlao Island. Don’t forget to bring enough water, snacks, and sunscreen because there’s nothing on Cadlao.

Watch the Sunset at Las Cabanas Beach

Las Cabanas Beach is one of the most popular beaches in El Nido. Don’t expect a quiet beach here; instead, you’ll find many beach bars and restaurants. Nevertheless, it’s a nice beach to relax and enjoy good food for an afternoon. Also, the sunset from this beach is beautiful, and you can enjoy good cocktails at one of the swing bars on the beach!

Nightlife in El Nido

If there’s anywhere in El Nido where you can have a great evening, it’s at Pukka Bar. It’s often lively from around ten o’clock, and there’s frequently a band playing. When we were there, there was a very good reggae band playing, creating a cool atmosphere. The bar is located on the beach, and the lights don’t go out until the early hours. Although there are several bars in El Nido, this is the only place where it’s really a party every day so far. If you prefer to have a quiet drink or play beer pong without being in the midst of a partying crowd, Bar 147 is recommended.

The Expedition between El Nido and Coron

One of the coolest things to do in the Philippines is the expedition between El Nido and Coron. You sail from El Nido to Coron or vice versa and visit the most beautiful places along the route, such as paradisiacal islands and snorkeling spots. Throughout the expedition, you’re offline so you can fully enjoy all the beauty around you. During the expedition, you eat delicious fresh fish, and there are also many good options for vegetarians. You sleep in idyllic huts on deserted islands. The expedition is a must-do during your trip to the Philippines!

Shopping in El Nido

There are a few cool shops to find in El Nido with nice clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. One of the nicest shops is A Little Corner of Paradise. But the shop next to ‘Sausage with benefits’ is also cool to take a look at.

Best Restaurants in El Nido

We can say that the list of good restaurants has grown significantly in recent years. For example, you can get the healthiest vegan breakfasts or delicious lunches at Taste. Especially the fruit bowls are really delicious. Be sure to try our favorite bowl: the Detoxify Indigo. For a quick bite, you should go to Holy Smoke. This is a small Mediterranean spot where you can order wraps and sandwiches with falafel, shawarma, or kofta. All super tasty! You can choose your own vegetables and sauces from the salad bar. If you want to dine out in a cozy and romantic atmosphere, then the Italian Bella Vita is the place to be. You sit here by the water, and the restaurant is super cozy. And last but not least: the Happiness Beach Bar. Here too, they serve delicious food, and there is a cozy atmosphere. It’s nice to go here before sunset.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in El Nido

A cool hostel in El Nido is Spin Designer Hostel. The design of this luxury hostel is amazing, and there is a lot of art to be found. The large beds are super comfortable, and the shower is nice and warm. In the morning, you get a delicious breakfast included in the price. The most beautiful pool in El Nido can be found at Frendz Hostel. While you swim, you have a fantastic view of the sea and the mountains. Especially during sunset, it’s spectacular. There is a very nice atmosphere, and it’s the perfect place to make new friends. You can choose a comfortable double room or a dormitory if you have a smaller budget. Both rooms have air conditioning and comfortable beds.

Spin Designer Hostel More information

Frendz Hostel More information

The post What to Do in El Nido? 10 of the Best Things to Do! appeared first on TRAVELREBELS.

Coron is unfortunately not a great city, and unlike El Nido, you’ll find fewer good hotels, restaurants, and nice shops there. It’s a place you mainly visit for diving and where you start or end the expedition between Coron and El Nido. However, the surrounding islands are incredibly beautiful. As it’s a logical stop on your itinerary, you’ll probably spend one or two nights there, and then you’ll surely wonder what there is to do. In this article, we share our tips for fun things to do in Coron.

A Day of Island Hopping

While the town itself may not be very beautiful or charming, the nearby islands are incredibly beautiful. Blue-green lagoons, white sandbanks, and idyllic beaches full of palm trees alternate here. Unfortunately, all these places are crowded, so you’ll have to share them with dozens of other people. You can choose between tours A, B, C, or D, each with several different spots on the route. If you want to avoid the biggest crowds, it’s better to opt for a private tour and clearly indicate that you want to depart first to avoid the crowds. Enjoy the beautiful places and try not to be too bothered by the crowds, and you’ll have a fantastic day!

Diving Among Shipwrecks

There are many shipwrecks lying on the bottom of the ocean around Coron, creating beautiful and unique diving spots for divers of all levels.

Enjoy Cocktails at Hop Hostel During Sunset

At the rooftop bar of Hop Hostel, you can enjoy cocktails and a spectacular sunset every evening. You don’t need to stay here to visit the rooftop bar. After sunset, sometimes parties are organized, along with games like a beer pong tournament. It’s a fun place to meet other travelers and have a great evening.

Climbing Mt. Tapyas

Another cool place to watch the sunset is from the viewpoint at the top of Mt. Tapyas. It sounds like a gigantic volcano, but in reality, it’s a hill of 210 meters (689 feet). However, you have to climb more than 700 steps to reach the top, so expect a solid workout of about 15 minutes. If you’re a bit early for sunset, it’s nice to take a walk on the hill trails at the back of Mt. Tapyas.

Relaxing at the Hot Springs

About a 20-minute drive from Coron, you’ll find the Maquinit Hot Springs nestled among the mangrove trees. There are two pools, one at 30 degrees Celsius and the other at 40 degrees Celsius. Since it’s already quite warm in the Philippines, it’s advisable to visit here in the late afternoon. About an hour before sunset, it gets pleasantly crowded, but there’s always enough space for everyone to sit comfortably. This is a nice spot to unwind and enjoy a drink.

A Game of Basketball with the Locals

Basketball is an incredibly popular sport in the Philippines, and on the way to the hot springs, you’ll come across one basketball court after another. If you’re traveling to the hot springs on a scooter, it’s fun to stop by. The locals will surely invite you to join in!

Playing Games at the Hippie Bar

If you feel like relaxing for an evening and playing some games with friends in a cozy place, we recommend Ala-E Hippie House. This creative cafe offers a super cozy atmosphere, delicious cocktails, and, of course, some reggae tunes in the background.

Best Restaurants in Coron

Coron doesn’t have a lot of great restaurants, but there are two places we can recommend. For a tasty breakfast or lunch, Le Voyage is our favorite. They serve delicious fresh juices, tasty oatmeal pancakes, smoothie bowls, and a few hot dishes. Craving a delicious pizza? Then Altrove is the place to go.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Coron

If you prefer staying in a hostel, Dayon Hostel is definitely worth considering. They offer both comfortable double rooms and dorms with plenty of privacy. There’s a cozy rooftop terrace, and the location is very central. Everything is within walking distance! If you’d rather stay in a bed and breakfast, we recommend The Bay Area. This is a relaxed hotel in the heart of Coron. The staff is incredibly friendly, you’ll get a tasty breakfast every morning, and the comfortable rooms come with good beds and hot showers.

Dayon Hostel More information

The Bay Area More information

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Siargao… Where to begin? Life on Siargao is so delightful that it’s hard to put into words. It’s a place where upon leaving, you always feel like you should have stayed longer, whether you’ve been there for 4 days or 4 weeks. Siargao is covered with at least a million palm trees, surrounded by the most beautiful beaches, and beyond that, you’ll find miles of azure blue sea. Just a few minutes by boat from Siargao are dozens of other small paradise islands, making it perfect for several days of island hopping. And then there are the endless rice fields, waterfalls, mangrove forests, lagoons, and coral reefs. Doesn’t sound too bad, right? Believe us, you’ll never want to leave!

How to Get to Siargao and Where Is It Located?

Siargao is located in the south of the Philippines, a 1 hour and 40-minute flight from Manila. By far the easiest way to reach Siargao is by flight from Manila or Cebu. Currently, both Cebu Pacific, Sunlight Air, and Skyjet fly to Siargao. With Skyjet, you can fly directly from Manila, and with Cebu Pacific, you’ll have a layover in Cebu.

What to Do on Siargao?

Siargao is the #1 surfing destination in the Philippines, but even if you can’t surf, there are no waves, or if you need a day of rest, you won’t get bored here. Besides spending the whole day lounging on the beach and swimming in the sea with a fresh smoothie, there’s plenty more to do. Here are some things you definitely shouldn’t miss.

Island Hopping around Siargao

The perfect day of island hopping looks like this: Sail from one tropical island to another, have fresh fish for lunch on a pristine white beach, and snorkel occasionally among the brightly colored fish and coral reefs. The most popular tour is the 3 islands tour, visiting Daku Island, Naked Island, and Guyam Island. You can book a group tour at Kermit in General Luna for 900 pesos / $17 per person or opt for a private tour for 1500 pesos/ $27. That $27 is per boat, so the more people you bring, the cheaper it gets. Besides the market in General Luna, you’ll find boats, and as soon as you arrive, you’ll meet someone within 1 minute who wants to take you on their boat. Easy peasy, right?

Naked Island is an enormous white sandbank without any trees or plants. This is the perfect spot to get a nice tan and chill in the clear water!

Daku Island is the largest island with an incredibly beautiful fishing village. Here, you can get a fresh fish for about $2, which they’ll prepare for you with a typical Filipino sauce and some rice. Snorkeling around the island is great, and don’t forget to take a stroll through the village to experience local life.

Guyam Island is, in our opinion, the most beautiful island because it looks exactly like what you would draw when picturing a deserted island. It’s a small round island with about 20 palm trees, a white beach, and the clearest water you’ve ever seen.

Watch the Sunset from Cloud 9

Cloud 9 is the most popular surf spot in Siargao with a simple wooden pier and a lookout point where you can watch the surfers and enjoy the brilliant sunset in the evening.

Rent a Motorbike and Go on an Adventure

The best way to explore Siargao is with a motorbike. You can rent one in General Luna, and often your hostel or hotel can arrange this for you. You don’t need a driver’s license for this, and the traffic in Siargao is very calm. If you have little experience, you can tour at your own pace on the side of the road. With a motorbike, you have all the freedom to discover the most beautiful places on this brilliant island. From hidden lagoons, deserted beaches, and the best surf spots to cute villages with sandy paths and simple houses of friendly locals.

Swimming in the Magpupungko pool

This is a natural infinity pool that forms when the tide is low. Surrounded by a large reef, this pool is separated from the sea and filled with extremely clear water displaying various shades of green and blue. So, before you go, check the tide schedule, and preferably visit on a clear day because that’s when this place looks its best. In the afternoon, it can get quite crowded, so try to go as early as possible to enjoy the beauty and tranquility. The Magpupungko pool is located in Pilar, about an hour’s drive from General Luna.

Explore the Tayangban Cave

When traveling from General Luna to the Magpupungko pool, you’ll pass by the Tayangban Cave, approximately halfway. You can recognize it by a small sign on the right side of the road that reads ‘Tayangban Cave Pool’. For 70 pesos / $1.20, a guide will accompany you through the narrow cave. You’ll first walk through a small canyon and stand in knee-deep blue water. Once inside the cave, turn on your headlamp (bring one!) and walk through the water in this stunning cave, passing under the road you were just on. The last part is deeper, and you’ll have to swim. After about 10 minutes, you’ll emerge from the cave and can swim in the canyon.

Transportation on Siargao

About 80% of travelers on Siargao rent a motorbike for their stay because it’s the easiest and cheapest way to get around the island. But if you don’t want to or can’t ride, there are other options. Tricycles and habal-habals are everywhere. The tricycle is a motorcycle with a sort of sidecar, and the habal-habal is a motorcycle with a roof. It might sound a bit strange, but in the Philippines, it’s as normal as taking the bus. You’ll see them everywhere on the island, and when you want one to stop, just wave. For very small amounts, you can ride on the back or in the sidecar, often with a few locals or other travelers. If you want to see multiple things on the island, you can also hire a tricycle for the whole day. Expect to pay around 1000 pesos / $18.

Best Restaurants on Siargao

The food on Siargao is fantastic! You’ll find cozy spots all over General Luna serving the freshest fish for a bargain. Here are some of our favorite restaurants: Kermit is the place to be if you want delicious food for not too much money. The menu includes both Western and local dishes. It’s often very busy in the evening, so it might be wise to make a reservation. A good alternative is Bravo. This restaurant is located on the beach, making it ideal for hanging out for an afternoon. For a super healthy lunch, head to Shaka, where they serve delicious fruit bowls and smoothies. They combine fresh fruit with superfoods like chia seeds, quinoa, and goji berries. At Kitya’s Place, the Arabic platter is a must-try, and you’ll find the tastiest tacos at Miguel’s Taqueria Y Cerveceria.

Nightlife and Parties on Siargao

You won’t find massive parties on Siargao, but almost every day there’s a small-scale party happening at a hostel or bar. On Mondays, it’s usually at the RumBar. On Tuesdays and Fridays, there’s a jungle party at the Tattoo Jungle Bar, which often lasts until 4 or 5 in the morning. And then there’s Viento del Mar, where you can usually find something happening on Fridays as well.

Best Time to Visit Siargao

The best time for surfers in Siargao is between July and November, while the best weather for island hopping is between March and May. The worst months are January and February when you’re most likely to encounter rain. The rest of the year, the weather is probably fine, but it’s always challenging to predict in tropical locations like Siargao. Checking the weather forecast is utterly useless because it never seems to be accurate.

Where to Stay on Siargao?

Most people stay in and around General Luna. Here you’ll find most restaurants, supermarkets, yoga schools, and it’s close to Cloud 9, the famous surf spot on Siargao. Don’t expect a bustling city or anything like that because it’s nothing more than a main road with sandy paths and small houses. One of the most beautiful hotels on Siargao is Ferra Resort Siargao. You’ll sleep in an idyllic bungalow on a beautiful beach full of palm trees. It’s in a wonderfully quiet location, just a little outside the town. If you’re on a smaller budget and prefer staying in a hostel, then Sinag Hostel is perfect! This hostel has a laid-back atmosphere, and the staff will make you feel right at home.

Ferra Resort Siargao More information

Sinag Hostel More information

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Bohol is a delightful island in the Philippines with one of the world’s most unique landscapes, the Chocolate Hills. Also, here lives the world’s smallest primate, the tarsier. But Bohol has even more beautiful sights such as white sandy beaches, endless rice fields, and floating restaurants. Bohol has a rich history and is one of the first Spanish settlements in the Philippines.

Exploring Bohol is a unique experience. In terms of attractions, there isn’t a lot to do, but what there is to do and see is unique. Hop on a scooter or in a taxi and explore the beautiful landscapes while visiting the lovely viewpoints and the tarsier along the way!

How to Get to Bohol?

Bohol is easily accessible from Cebu. There are several companies that sail from Cebu to Bohol every hour in about 2.5 hours. Here you can reserve your ferry ticket online. From Manila, fly to Cebu, then go to Pier 4 by taxi and take a boat to Bohol. There are also three airlines that fly directly to Bohol: Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and Zest Airways. They fly from Manila to Tagbilaran City, the capital of Bohol. From the port in Tagbilaran, travel to Alona Beach for $600 for a van, $500 for a taxi, and $250 for a tricycle. The journey takes about an hour.

Attractions on Bohol

Most of the attractions on Bohol are found in the center of the island, which you can easily reach by scooter or taxi. You can rent a scooter at many different places. From Alona Beach to Central Bohol is about 2 hours by scooter. Along the road in the south, you’ll pass many beautiful views of the sea, and towards the inland, you’ll find idyllic rice fields and can already see the first hills of the Chocolate Hills.

Alona Beach

• Location: southwest of Panglao Island (peninsula near Bohol)
• Biggest white sand beach in Bohol
• Great for swimming. Snorkeling and diving at the smaller islands off Alona Beach
• Lots of nice hotels and restaurants

Alona Beach is a stretch of white sandy beach on the Panglao peninsula, where most travelers stay. The town has small shopping centers, hotels, and many restaurants offering a good view of the sea. Nightlife is lively along the beach with bars open until morning. Many vendors offer daytime boat trips to nearby islands. Panglao offers good diving and snorkeling, and dolphins are also regularly spotted. Definitely take a trip to the paradisiacal Virgin Island for a truly heavenly experience.

Chocolate Hills

• • • Location: Mainly around Carmen, Batuan, and Sagbayan
    • Most famous viewpoint: Chocolate Hills Complex near Carmen
    • Entrance fee: $56 per person
    • Another viewpoint: Sagbayan Peak in Sagbayan city
    • Entrance fee: $56 per person
    • Carmen is 2 hours from Alona Beach by motorbike, Sagbayan is 2.5 hours

The Chocolate Hills are a unique geological formation found nowhere else in the world. They form a rolling terrain of hills, mostly cone-shaped. The hills are made of limestone (once coral reefs) topped with grass and date back to the Ice Age. Their shape is a result of erosion. The average height varies from about 98 to 164 feet, but the highest one reaches 394 feet. There are approximately 1268-1776 hills that turn brown during the summer when the grass covering them dries up, transforming them into dark brown hills. Hence the name Chocolate Hills. The best time to see them is from March to June; outside of this time, the grass turns green again due to rain. Even then, it’s still a very special sight!

The Chocolate Hills are scattered across the cities of Sagbayan, Batuan, and Carmen; where the most famous Chocolate Hills viewpoint is. This viewpoint offers a stunning 360-degree view of the hills. The other viewpoint is in Sagbayan city, north of Carmen. Sagbayan Peak offers more activities with their butterfly and tarsier sanctuary, restaurant, children’s playground, and a swimming pool.

Bohol Tarsier Sanctuary

• • • Location: Corella, Bohol
    • Entrance fee: $56 per person
    • With souvenir shops and a restaurant
    • Travel time from Alona Beach to the Sanctuary: about 2 hours

Tarsiers are the world’s smallest primates; they are about the size of a fist. They have huge eyes on their relatively large heads. They are nocturnal, usually feeding at night and moving from tree to tree. During the day, they hang on a branch and sometimes rotate their head almost 360 degrees. They mainly eat insects and are considered one of the most endangered primates in the world.

Baclayon Church

• • • Location: Baclayon
    • Entrance fee: None
    • With souvenir shops
    • Travel time from Alona Beach: 1 hour

One of the oldest churches in the country. On your way to the center of the island, you’ll pass through Baclayon where you’ll find the old church, unfortunately ruined by the 2013 earthquake, which also devastated the most famous viewpoint of the Chocolate Hills as well as much of the island’s infrastructure. Only the bell tower remains as the original part of the church. Across from the church, there’s a museum and souvenir shop.

Food and Drink in Bohol

Restaurants abound in Bohol. In the capital, but especially in Panglao, there’s a plethora of dining options. But also in the center of the island around the Chocolate Hills and viewpoints. Alona Beach is filled with restaurants, many with stunning ocean views. Along the road, you’ll also find many restaurants and shops.

Some recommendations include Gerarda’s (pricey but excellent, reservation recommended), Guiseppe (cozy with good pizza and lasagna). Also, the Chocolate Hills Viewpoint Restaurant at the famous viewpoint serves delicious food at a good price and is a nice spot for a break after your long drive and climb towards the top.

ATMs, Safety, and Overall Experience

ATMs are plentiful in Alona Beach and Tagbilaran City. It is generally very safe to travel in Bohol. Crime is low compared to other larger islands. The people are friendly, as in many places in the Philippines. The roads to the center of the island can be somewhat challenging, especially at night when large buses and trucks speed through the dark narrow, winding roads. If you’re exploring Bohol by scooter, wear a helmet, especially around the Chocolate Hills area as police enforce this regulation.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Bohol and Panglao

Many of the hotels are located on Panglao Island, a small island connected by a bridge from the mainland of Bohol. Many of these hotels are around Alona Beach, the popular bounty beach of Panglao. You can also stay beautifully on Bohol itself. For example, in the exceptional Fox & The Firefly Cottages. This hotel is nestled in nature by the river. Here, you stay in a super beautiful bungalow with stunning views of the river or the garden. This hotel offers multiple activities such as stand-up paddling and mountain biking. Prefer to stay on Panglao? Then Island World is a good hotel. The rooms are super spacious, there’s a nice pool, and they offer delightful massages. This is a perfect place to relax and unwind!

Fox & The Firefly Cottages More information

Island World More information

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The Philippines is one of our favorite countries in Southeast Asia. Traveling through the Philippines is everything you dream of if you’re fond of bounty islands. Think of powdery white beaches, crystal-clear blue seas, green mountains with wild jungles, friendly people, and perfect waves for both beginner and experienced surfers. The Philippines is certainly not a very expensive travel destination, but you do need a bit more budget than for other countries in Southeast Asia.Exactly how much budget you need varies for everyone because no one has exactly the same travel style. To give you an idea of the average costs, this article covers everything about prices for hostels & hotels, transportation, excursions, and food in the Philippines. With that, you can make a good estimate of your budget for the Philippines.

(Possible) Pre-travel Costs

Airfare: These costs are unavoidable but can be kept low by booking early. Our advice is to book about 5 months before the departure date. With a bit of luck, you can find tickets to Manila for around $540.

Vaccinations: Although no vaccinations are mandatory for the Philippines, it is advisable to get vaccinations against DTP and Hepatitis A. Including the cost of the consultation, you’ll be spending around $70. Malaria occurs in the Philippines, so you can choose to take malaria pills. During the trip, you’ll need to take one pill every day, and additionally, one pill per day for 1 day before and 7 days after your trip. The pills cost about $2 each. Always check your health insurance policy carefully because there is a chance that you can claim all the costs of vaccinations and malaria pills.

Backpack and Travel Items: Backpacking without a backpack is out of the question. A decent backpack costs about $100, and you’ll also need some travel items. Want to know what’s handy to bring? Check out our packing list for backpacking.

Food and Drink in the Philippines

This is likely where most of your budget will go, which is a shame because Filipino cuisine is not particularly remarkable. There are significant price differences among restaurants, so it’s smart to check the menu before sitting down. On average, you should expect to spend about $6 per meal. Ordering a local dish will be a bit cheaper, while ordering pasta will probably cost a bit more. A beer will cost you approximately $1.40 and a soda $0.75. Overall, you can estimate the costs for food and drink at an average daily budget of around $17 to $23 without alcohol. It can be cheaper if you pay attention to prices and eat a lot of local dishes.

Excursions

Another part of your budget will go towards fun excursions. Fortunately, most excursions are not too expensive in the Philippines. For example, a day of island hopping in El Nido costs about $35 per person including food and drinks. There are also more expensive options such as learning to dive or surf. A week at a surf school costs about $430 including accommodation, and a diving course costs about $340. For regular excursions and activities such as renting a scooter or a day of island hopping, you should budget an average of $13 per day. This also depends on how active you want to be.

Travel Costs in the Philippines

Transportation in the cities costs next to nothing. You can travel by jeepney (a kind of bus) or tricycle (motorcycle with sidecar) for just a few cents. Even bus transportation between cities and towns is not very expensive. Often, you’ll spend hours on the bus for just a few dollars. The real costs are the plane tickets between the major islands, especially if you don’t book in advance and travel during the high season. If you book early or travel off-peak, a 1.5-hour flight costs about $45. If you book last minute during the high season, it can go up to $100. The high season is from December to April. So, check the prices early on websites like Cheaptickets.com.

Prices for Hostels and Hotels

Accommodation in the Philippines tends to be slightly pricier compared to other countries in Southeast Asia. For a basic double room with a private bathroom, you can expect to pay around $24 per night. If you’re seeking more luxury, anticipate spending at least $48 or more per night. Opting for a dormitory will typically cost around $12 per night. We’ve curated a list of hostels and hotels where we’ve had fantastic experiences, incorporating tips from fellow travelers. These accommodations are often in high demand, so it’s advisable to book in advance. You can discover our favorite places to stay in the Philippines here.

Average Daily Budget for the Philippines

When you tally up all the expenses, you can travel around the Philippines with a daily budget of approximately $40 per person. However, it’s wise to budget a bit more generously, as you might decide to indulge in activities like a diving course or other costly experiences once you’re there. We budgeted around $1700 per person per month because we participated in many activities. This can be cheaper if you’re frugal with your spending and refrain from splurging too much. Conversely, it can quickly become more expensive if you frequently opt for upscale accommodations. Don’t be deterred by the fact that traveling in the Philippines is slightly more expensive than in a country like Thailand. The Philippines is definitely worth spending a bit more money on!

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The Philippines has the reputation of being an unsafe travel destination for many people. This perception is understandable due to news reports of kidnappings, bombings, and the current president’s war on drugs. But how unsafe or safe is it really? And what do you, as a traveler, experience amidst all this unrest? We’ll answer these questions here to alleviate your concerns and provide tips for a safe journey through the Philippines. It’s one of our favorite destinations and a paradise on earth. You just need to know where to go and where not to.

We update this article approximately every 6 months or when there are significant changes.

How realistic is online travel advice?

So, you’re considering a trip or vacation to the Philippines. Good choice! But when you then you start reading some travel advice online, you suddenly become less sure about your decision. Understandable, because if you’ve never been there and read about typhoons, kidnappings, bombings, and terrorists, it sounds very different from paradisiacal beaches, friendly locals, volcanoes, and stunning rice fields. The Philippines comprises more than 7,000 islands, and yes, there are indeed places you should avoid. But because they’re all islands, there are very clear boundaries between where it’s safe to travel and where it’s not. In the southern Philippines, there are active Muslim extremists who do indeed carry out bombings and kidnap tourists. But on an island like Siargao, it’s perfectly safe. This, while Siargao is only a few kilometers (miles) away from the ‘unsafe’ area. So, it makes a huge difference which islands you visit, and that’s why you should take the travel advice with a grain of salt. The fact that there’s unrest somewhere in the country certainly doesn’t mean that everywhere is unsafe.

Areas to Avoid

Additionally, there’s Manila, the capital of the Philippines. It’s best not to spend too much time here because it’s not a very beautiful or enjoyable city. If you do stay in Manila, Makati is the best and safest district. It’s wise to download the Grab app and use it to arrange your taxi rides. This works perfectly and is the safest way to get around in Manila. Other taxis might try to rip you off. You can buy a local SIM card from Smart or Globe, which will give you access to the internet at all times and allow you to use Grab.

Tip: Lub d Philippines is a nice hotel to sleep for one or two nights in Manila. You can really relax here after the long flight to the bustling Manila, and it’s located in the safe district of Makati.

Safe Travel Route for the Philippines

We’ve been to the Philippines several times and have visited quite a few different islands. Based on that, we’ve compiled the ultimate travel route for the Philippines for about 3 to 4 weeks. This travel route takes you to the most beautiful and unique places. All the places on this travel route or other islands we’ve written about are perfectly safe to travel to.

Conclusion: How Safe is Traveling in the Philippines?

Is the Philippines a safe travel destination? Yes and no. There are certain areas where tourists should not go. If you avoid these areas and follow our travel route, you’ll be able to travel very safely and probably won’t encounter any issues. In other words, you’ll have a fantastic trip. The people are extremely friendly, and except for Manila, it’s fantastically beautiful. So, don’t worry too much about safety and feel free to plan a trip to this paradisiacal country!

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