The Ultimate 10-Day Island Hopper & Budget Backpacker Itinerary

Check into your accommodation in Manila after arriving from your flight. Grab a ride using the pre-downloaded transport app to ensure a smooth transition from the airport.

Explore this iconic historical landmark along the Pasig River. The entry fee is approximately $3. Wander through the fort, which was originally built by the Spanish to protect the city, and visit the onsite museum dedicated to national hero José Rizal.

Stroll through this historic public square located just outside Fort Santiago, which serves as the beating heart of Intramuros.

Admire the stunning architecture of the Basilica of Manila, originally built in 1590 and reconstructed in the late 19th century.

Stop at a local buffet restaurant in the Intramuros area. For around 650 PHP (approx. $11 USD), you can enjoy a delicious spread of traditional Filipino dishes like chicken, noodles, and rice.

Wander through the oldest Chinatown in the world. Be prepared to witness intense local poverty here; the creators recommend buying food from local stands or grocery stores to hand out to children in need.

Stay at a cozy treehouse hostel in Oslob, located just a short distance from the whale shark briefing area for an easy morning walk.

Hire a local motorbike driver for a $6 round trip up into the mountains to visit this hidden jungle waterfall. Choose to walk the short, scenic path down to the falls rather than paying for an extra ride.

Take a peaceful afternoon walk along the shore near your stay. Keep your eyes peeled to spot crabs and sea turtles swimming close to the beach.

Arrive by 4:30 AM to secure your spot. The experience costs $10 per person and runs from 6:00 AM to noon. You will paddle out in small boats to swim within feet of these gentle giants. Remember: do not touch the sharks and do not wear sunscreen, as the chemicals are harmful to them.

Take a short boat ride across from Oslob to this stunning sandbar. It is a highly popular spot for snorkeling and soaking in the bright turquoise waters.

Purchase a day pass for $25 for two people. This includes your roundtrip boat ride, a meal credit covering two delicious lunch meals, and full access to the resort's pools, hiking trails, and kayaking amenities.

Board the local bus back to Cebu City. The journey takes about 4 hours and can get very crowded, so prepare for a potentially standing-only ride.

Arrive at the airport to catch your domestic flight over to Palawan province.

Board a shared van for the long, bumpy 5-hour drive north to El Nido. The rest stops along this rural route are basic and require cash to use.

Check into a cozy local hostel in El Nido. Budget accommodations here average around $30 per night.

The first stop on Tour A ($24/person). This expansive beach is lined with towering palm trees and features a sand volleyball court.

Crawl through a small opening in the rock face to enter a hidden, bright blue oasis surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. Keep an eye out for local vendors paddling between boats on kayaks selling ice cream.

Hop into a kayak and paddle through a narrow water channel into the breathtaking Big Lagoon, nestled deep within massive limestone walls. This is also an excellent spot for snorkeling.

After a long day on the water, head here for dinner. This highly popular spot is famous for its hand-tossed, woodfired pizzas made completely from scratch right in front of you.

Kick off Tour D by kayaking through this serene, protected cove surrounded by dramatic limestone formations and vibrant blue waters.

Relax on the soft sand while your boat crew prepares a fresh beach picnic. The highlight of the meal here is the delicious, freshly grilled shrimp.

Experience a truly magical and serene snorkeling session. The crystal-clear waters and quiet atmosphere give this lagoon an otherworldly, peaceful vibe.

The final stop on Tour D. Enjoy calm waters and stunning marine life for one last snorkeling session to cap off your El Nido island hopping.

Head to this local favorite spot back in town to grab a sweet, refreshing gelato to cool off after a long day under the tropical sun.

Arrive at the airport in Coron to begin the final leg of your Philippine adventure.

Coron's most famous attraction. To reach this stunning, crystal-clear lake, hike up a short trail for about 15 minutes (climbing roughly 300 steps). Keep an eye out for wild monkeys along the path.

If you book a private tour with a local guide like Gilbert, meet early at the office and head to this bustling local market. Shop together for fresh ingredients (chicken, shrimp, eggplant) to be cooked fresh on the boat for lunch.

By booking a private tour, you can arrive here 2 hours ahead of the group tours and have the entire lake to yourself. The crystal-clear waters are famous for free diving; ask your guide to teach you local breath-holding techniques.

A peaceful, secluded beach. Arriving early allows you to experience it in complete tranquility, with only the local caretakers sweeping the sand.

A fantastic snorkeling spot. Swim through the shallow waters to spot colorful starfish resting on the sandy bottom.

Stop here for a memorable beach lunch. Your guide will grill the fresh chicken, shrimp, and eggplant dip you bought at the market. Buy a fresh coconut from a beach vendor for just $1 to complete the meal.

A breathtaking lagoon featuring a unique blend of salt and fresh water, completely enclosed by towering limestone cliffs. It is the perfect final snorkeling stop of your tour.

On your final morning, wake up early for a sunrise hike up Mount Tapyas. At the summit, you'll find a massive cross overlooking the entire town of Coron and the ocean beyond.