
moderate
15 days
Suitable for travelers in good general health who can board small boats, swim/snorkel and handle short hikes or climbing over rocks.
Island-hopping from Palawan to Boracay, this 15-day adventure stitches dramatic limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, whale-shark encounters and colonial history into one immersive Philippines itinerary. Read on for what to expect, when to go, and how to pack.
The first salt air hits before you even see the water — a hot, mineral tang that promises something beyond the city. On day two the plane drops you low over Palawan and the islands spread below like spare coins: limestone teeth, ribbon beaches, lagoons the color of broken glass. You step from boat to sand to shallow reef in a single, easy-motion day; the ocean pulls at your ankles as if daring you to stay.

The operator requires a 14-day lead time to confirm domestic flights and inter-island transfers—reserve early to secure preferred dates.
Sun and water are constant companions—reef-safe SPF protects coral while a 5–10L dry bag keeps electronics and passports safe on boats.
Many island vendors and small restaurants don’t accept cards—carry PHP 500–2,000 in mixed denominations for tips, market buys and island fees.
Follow guides’ instructions during swims with whale sharks and while snorkeling—no touching animals or feeding fish to protect animals and avoid fines.
Spanish colonial history is visible in Manila’s Intramuros and historic churches across Visayas; Coron’s bays also hold WWII shipwrecks popular with divers.
Many sites enforce strict visitor rules—no-touch policies at reefs and timed entries for the Underground River aim to reduce environmental impact; choose operators who follow local conservation guidelines.
Keeps camera, documents and spare clothes dry during boat transfers and lagoon paddles.
Protects skin while minimizing harm to coral and marine life.
summer specific
Useful for rocky landings, scrambling on limestone, and reef walks at low tide.
Quick showers are common—pack a breathable shell for sudden downpours and cooler evenings.
monsoon|summer specific