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Backpacking Philippines

Backpacking Philippines is a 14-day small-group trip through 5 stops, Manila to Coron, from $2,060.10 per person with a $350 deposit. You paddle Palawan’s underground river, camp on a private beach and island-hop around El Nido and Coron. It suits solo travellers aged 20-45, in groups of 6-20, with 21 meals included. Departures run from 7 September 2026.

Tropical beach in the Philippines with turquoise water, limestone cliffs, palm trees, and a boat.Watch the video
  • 21 Meals (Vegetarian Options)
  • All Trips and Excursions
  • No Hidden Charges
  • All Accommodation
  • Airport Pick Up & Drop Off
  • All In-Country Transport
  • Local English-speaking guides
  • Flight to Puerto Princesa
  • International Flights
  • Travel Insurance
Rated 4.9/5 by 568 Travellers on Google & Facebook

The organization of the trip was super good. The trip has been very active - we have seen and experienced a lot. Nevertheless, we could pull back and do our own thing if we wanted to.

Kristina, March 3rd, 2023
from$2060.10Normally$2289 Save $228.90 (10%)
Pay $350 deposit

Embark on a 14-day Philippines group tour designed for solo travelers and young adults. Immerse yourself in 10+ activities, exquisite accommodations, and delightful meals, all wrapped up in one fantastic package.

  • Length14 Days
  • Starting PointManila
  • Ending PointCoron
  • No. Of Stops5
  • Avg. Group Size6-20
  • Avg. Age20-45
  • No. Of Activities12
  • No. Of Meals21

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Map

Map for Backpacking Philippines

Tour Itinerary

Golden light illuminates Manila's modern skyline and yachts reflecting in the calm bay at sunset.
Day 1

Arrive in Manila!

Arrive at any time on day 1 and your guide will be there to meet you at the airport. Weave through the streets of one of Asia’s most frenetic cities straight to your accommodation. Time to settle in and meet the group! If you arrive earlier in the day, you can use your time to explore the city and do some last-minute shopping. In the evening we’ll get to know you over dinner and a few drinks.

  • Meals IncludedDinner
  • Room TypeDorm
  • Activities IncludedWelcome Dinner
Happy travelers and local men in yellow shirts pose with thumbs up at Iwahig Prison, Puerto Princesa.
Day 2

Palawan Here We Come!

We are heading to Palawan! Start your day with a leisurely breakfast, then take a short flight to Puerto Princesa. You'll have some free time to enjoy a refreshing swim in the pool, a relaxing massage or simply unwind. In the evening, we will dine at a local restaurant in this charming coastal city.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast
  • Room TypeHotel
A group of excited backpackers in helmets and life vests ready to explore the Underground River.
Day 3

Underground River Time!

Start the day early with a trip to the UNESCO-listed Underground River, exploring its winding caves and hidden chambers by boat. Then, journey along dirt roads to the remote fishing village of Port Barton, where paradise truly begins. Spend the afternoon relaxing on golden sand, sipping fresh coconuts, and soaking up island vibes. Tonight, drift off to the sound of the ocean in a traditional Filipino beach bungalow.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast, Lunch
  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedUNESCO listed Underground River
Energetic backpackers playing volleyball on a sandy court surrounded by lush palm trees at Island Camp.
Five happy travelers enjoy a beach swing and sunny sand amidst tropical palms in the Philippines.
Vibrant purple and pink sunset over a tropical beach with traditional boats and palm trees in the Philippines.
A large, crackling bonfire lights up a sandy beach at night on Island Camp, Philippines.
Days 4 - 5

The Islander Experience – Private Beach Camp!

Spend the next two days living the island life with our Islander Experience. Cruise through the waters of Port Barton with local guides, snorkeling vibrant coral reefs and swimming alongside sea turtles. Discover hidden waterfalls, explore tiny islands, and soak up the untouched beauty of the area. As the sun sets, gather around a beach bonfire at our own little bar, enjoying the stunning views this region is known for. With fresh island feasts prepared by our guides, you won’t have to worry about a thing. Tonight, fall asleep in tents on the sand, drifting off to the sound of the waves.

  • Meals IncludedLunch, Dinner / Breakfast, Lunch
  • Room TypeBeach Camping / Twin Rooms
  • Activities IncludedIsland Hopping, Bonfire, Snorkelling, Waterfall, School Visit (seasonal)
A woman walks on a beautiful white sand beach in El Nido, holding a snorkel mask.
Happy backpackers pose on a sunny beach with towering limestone cliffs and ocean waves in El Nido.
Day 6

Bound For El Nido

After breakfast, take some time to appreciate your spectacular surroundings before we then hop into a van and head up on our way to El Nido. When we arrive you will see why Palawan was named the most beautiful island group in the world. Surrounded by islands and towering cliffs, El Nido is a secret paradise we are lucky enough to share. Once you pick your jaws up off the ground, we will check in to the funkiest hostel in Palawan.

  • Room TypeDorm
An adventurer climbs a tall coconut tree using a rope and harness in El Nido, Philippines.
Six happy women learning to prepare coconuts for cooking during a cultural activity in El Nido.
Day 7

Cultural Day

Immerse yourself in Filipino culture with a short jungle hike, discovering the rich flora and fauna of the rainforest. Arrive at our exclusive beach hut for a hands-on day of activities—cook traditional Filipino dishes, climb coconut trees, learn stick fighting, try coconut leaf weaving, and take part in local dances and games. In the afternoon, relax on the stunning Las Cabanas Beach and soak in the breathtaking sunset. For those seeking adventure, an optional zip line offers the thrill of soaring between two islands over the ocean. An unforgettable day from start to finish.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast , Lunch
  • Room TypeDorm
  • Activities IncludedCooking Lesson, Learning Filipino Culture
A snorkeler swims alongside a large sea turtle over a vibrant coral reef in El Nido.
Group of joyful friends on a boat and in the water, island hopping in El Nido.
Day 8

Island Hopping

This morning we board our boat to take us around all the spectacular, tiny islands in the bay. You will explore the most beautiful islands and the bluest waters you have ever seen. Snorkel with your new friends and feast on the freshly prepared food on board. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast , Lunch
  • Room TypeDorm
  • Activities IncludedEl Nido Island Hopping, Snorkeling
Smiling backpackers on a canopy walk overlooking the stunning turquoise waters of El Nido bay.
Two people ziplining over a lush green forest with a stunning turquoise bay in El Nido.
Day 9

El Nido Town

Today we do a short canopy walk up to the famous cliffs overlooking El Nido to get the best view of incredible bay and Cadlao Island. After all that exercise, you’ll need some chill-out time! That’s why we include a traditional Filipino massage near the beach to help ease those muscles. Take your time today to relax and enjoy your surroundings. Explore the town and meet some friendly locals.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast
  • Room TypeDorm
  • Activities IncludedFamous Cliffs Overlooking, Traditional Filipino Massage
Traditional bancas on a sandy beach with towering limestone cliffs and turquoise water in El Nido.
Tourists relaxing on a traditional bangka boat, cruising the clear waters near El Nido, Philippines.
Day 10

On The Coron

After breakfast pack your things and hop on the fast ferry to Coron. Check into our accomodation and take the evening to explore Coron town and the night life of live music and street food.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast
  • Room TypeHotel
  • Activities IncludedFast Ferry to Coron
Several traditional boats rest on a white sand beach with clear turquoise water in Coron.
Day 11

Coron Free Day

Today is a day for you to spend at your leisure! Chill out at the accommodation or book an optional extra. Hike Mount Tapyas, visit Black Island or get some Scuba Diving in! The choice is yours.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast
  • Room TypeHotel
A traditional bangka boat sails past dramatic limestone cliffs and a pristine beach in Coron.
Large white 'CORON' sign and a cross on a dry hillside under a blue sky.
Aerial view of a tropical island with white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters, Coron, Philippines.
Person celebrating in clear turquoise water on a pristine white sand beach in Coron, Philippines.
Day 12 - 13

Coron Island Hopping & Camping

Spend the next two days exploring Coron’s top snorkeling spots with our local guides. Cruise past dramatic limestone cliffs and pristine beaches before diving into crystal-clear waters. Snorkel over the World War II-era Lusong Gunboat wreck, glide through vibrant coral reefs, and swim in the stunning twin lagoons. As the sun sets, unwind on Pass Island, where we’ll camp in beach huts and enjoy cocktails by the bonfire. Wake up to the sound of the waves, have breakfast on the beach, and get ready for another day of incredible water adventures.

  • Meals Included2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 1 Dinner
  • Room TypeBeach Huts on Pass Island – Dorm
  • Activities IncludedSnorkelling, Hot Springs
A diverse group of happy friends in swimwear posing on a beach at sunset, enjoying drinks.
Several traditional boats rest on a white sand beach with clear turquoise water in Coron.
Day 14

Tour Ends

Sadly all good things must come to an end! After breakfast we will take you to the airport in time to catch your flight out of Coron.

  • Meals IncludedBreakfast
  • Activities IncludedAirport Transfer to Fransisco B. Reyes Airport

Tour Dates

Optional Extras

$110

Pre-Tour Accommodation (Dorm) in Manila

This is for nights of pre-accommodation prior to the start of the tour in Manila. Price is per bed in dorm with breakfast included. Airport transfers are only available on day 1 of the tour.

Add to your tour
$80

Pre-Tour Accommodation (Private) in Manila

This is for nights of pre-accommodation prior to the start of the tour in Manila. Price is per room for 2 pax with breakfast included. Airport transfers are only offered on day 1 of the tour.

Add to your tour
$455

Private Room Philippines

Add this option for a private room instead of a dorm. Please note there will be two nights of room-sharing.

Add to your tour

All this is included + More!

  • Welcome Dinner
  • Overnight Camping On Private Island
  • UNESCO listed Underground River
  • Island Hopping
  • Boat Trip
  • Waterfall Visits
  • Snorkeling
  • 2 Day/1 Night island hopping and camping in Coron
  • Cooking Lesson
  • Learning Filipino Culture
  • Canopy Walk To Famous View Point
  • Traditional Filipino Massage
  • Hot Springs
  • Bonfire

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the weather like in the Philippines?

June to December generally sees heavier rainfall, but has mostly sunny days. January to May is hot and dry and is the peak season for Philippines tourism. Please note we don’t run tours in July or August due to the rainy season.

How to get to the hotel if I’m arriving before the tour starts?

You have a few options, our general advise would be the Yellow Airport Taxis.
Yellow Airport Taxis: These are the official metered taxis that you’ll find in designated taxi ranks at the airport. They are usually more expensive than regular city taxis but are considered safe and reliable.
Coupon Taxis: These are flat-rate taxis also available at the airport. You’ll need to purchase a coupon or voucher for your destination beforehand. These taxis are generally more expensive but are convenient if you want to avoid the hassle of a meter.
Grab (App): One of the most popular ride-sharing options in Manila is Grab. You can book a GrabCar directly from the airport, and the fare is generally reasonable. The app provides an estimated fare, which can give you an idea of the cost before you commit to the ride.
White Taxis: These are regular city taxis that might be waiting around the airport. While cheaper than yellow taxis, they are not officially sanctioned by the airport and are considered less reliable.

Can you cater for my dietary requirements on this trip?

Yes, we can cater for most dietary requirements. Please notify us prior to arriving on day 1 so we can arrange this for you.

Where do we spend the first night of the tour?

We stay at the award winning Z Hostel in Makati.

Do you include any meals on this tour?

Yes, we include 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 2 dinners.

What is the camping like?

It’s a fun and unique part of the tour! The tent has two comfy air mattresses, is just 20m from the sea, and there’s a bonfire with music. Basic toilets and showers are available — simple but totally worth it for the experience 😍

See all questions

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