Backpacking Philippines: Island Explorer

On the way back to Cebu City we stop at Simala Shrine, a castle-like monastery that tells the story of Spanish colonisation in the Philippines. From there we fly across to Busuanga Island and check in to our hotel in Coron. Dinner in town, then rest up before the water starts.

Goggles on, because today we're out on the Sulu Sea hitting Coron's most iconic snorkel spots. Think impossibly clear water, coral gardens and schools of fish in every direction. Tonight we head out to see what Coron's nightlife is all about.

Your morning is free to wander Coron Town or do absolutely nothing by the pool. In the afternoon we take on the steps up Mount Tapyas for the best view over the bay. We finish at Maquinit Hot Springs, soaking in warm saltwater pools as the sun goes down.

We board a traditional Banca boat and sail off the map for three days between Coron and El Nido. Deserted islands, empty white beaches and snorkel stops in water you can see straight through. Tonight we sleep in simple beachfront huts with a mattress, a mosquito net, a bucket shower and a sky absolutely full of stars.

Day two of the expedition brings more uninhabited beaches, more reef, no wifi and absolutely nowhere to be. The routine is swim, snorkel, sunbathe, repeat, with a beach clean-up and a visit to a local island school along the way. Another night in a traditional beach camp, falling asleep to the sound of the waves.

The expedition lands us in El Nido on the island of Palawan, arguably the most beautiful stretch of coast in the country. After days at sea, today is all about beach time, cold drinks and working on your tan. Tonight you'll find out why El Nido's bars have such a reputation.

This morning we head above the treeline on a canopy walk with views out over the town and the bay. Then it's time for an included Filipino massage, exactly what your legs need after a week of adventuring. The evening is yours for a sunset bar, a seafood dinner, or an early night for once.

We pile into a jeepney for a proper local tour of El Nido, stopping at an organic farm and eating lunch on the beach with a traditional dance performed by the local community. Next up is Nacpan, four kilometres of golden sand and one of Palawan's finest beaches. We'll duck into a few local hideouts on the way back into town.

We leave El Nido and drive south through Palawan's jungle interior to the sleepy beach town of Port Barton. There's no rush here, so the afternoon is free for the sand and a sunset drink. Dinner together rounds off the day.

One last big day on the water, and it's a good one. We hop between palm-fringed islands, snorkel reefs packed with marine life and stop at sandbars carpeted in starfish. Then it's back to Port Barton for our final small-town beach sunset.

Heading for Puerto Princesa we stop at the Palawan Underground River, one of the natural wonders of the world. A boat cruise takes us deep into the cave system, past stalactites and stalagmites millions of years in the making. We finish the day checking in to our hotel in Puerto Princesa.

Your morning is free to explore Puerto Princesa or take it easy by the pool. An included flight then brings us back to Manila for one last night together. Time for a final dinner and a proper send-off with the crew.

And that's 17 days of islands, boats and beaches done. Check out after breakfast and make your way to the airport, or stay on in Manila and keep the trip going. Whatever comes next, we're here to help you plan it.