Philippines Expedition - 23 Days

Arrive at any time in Manila and we will meet you at the airport. We take you through the winding streets to our boutique hostel in central Manila. Settle into your accommodation and in the evening join the rest of the group for a delicious welcome meal up on the rooftop terrace and enjoy a few drinks overlooking the Manila skyline.

Accommodation: Twin/Double Rooms - Z Boutique Hotel (or similar) Activities: Welcome Dinner Optional Extras: N/A Meals: Dinner Physical Rating: Medium

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.

Accommodation: Twin/Double Rooms - Canvas Boutique Hotel (or similar) Activities: N/A Optional Extras: N/A Meals: Breakfast Physical Rating: Medium

We have an early start as we head out to the UNESCO Underground River. We explore a portion of the accessible underground river by boat before stopping for lunch. Afterwards, we'll continue on a scenic drive to the remote and stunning Port Barton. Spend the afternoon sipping fresh coconuts on golden sand while listening to some island reggae in the background. Tonight we will sleep in traditional Filipino-style beach bungalows listening to the sound of the ocean.

Accommodation: Twin/Double Rooms - Elsa's Cottages (or similar) Activities: Underground River Optional Extras: Massages Meals: Breakfast & Lunch Physical Rating: Medium

For the next 2 days we get to experience the local island way of life, with our Islander Experience. After breakfast, we join our local guides on their boat for 2 days of exploring islands and the surrounding areas of Port Barton.

Your first stop will be making a special visit to one of four local schools, where you'll have the chance to interact with the students and see firsthand the impact of your support. We encourage guests to bring school supplies, which can either be pre-brought or purchased the day before in Puerto Princesa. Guests can also make monetary donations that will go towards things like building kitchens, canteens, and sporting equipment. If the school is on holiday or it's a weekend, we'll visit the local day care center instead. Please note the school visit may take place on day 4 or day 5.

In the evening we get together around the fire at our very own private beach camp. Perfect! Don’t worry about food either as our local guides will have everything covered with feasts of grilled fish, pork, rice, vegetables and fruit. In the evening you will sleep in tents directly on the beach in paradise.

Accommodation: Private Beach Camp (2 Person Tents) Activities: Island Hopping, Beach Bonfire, Snorkelling, Waterfall Visit, School Visit (seasonal) Optional Extras: N/A Meals: Breakfast Lunch & Dinner Physical Rating: Medium/High

Today's day two of your island hopping adventures. You'll continue to enjoy snorkelling around coral reefs & alongside turtles, shower in jungle waterfalls, exploring tiny islands and just taking it all in.

Please note - activities on day 4 and 5 may alternate depending on each departure.

Accommodation: Twin/Double Rooms - Elsa's Cottages (or similar) Activities: Island Hopping, Beach Bonfire, Snorkelling, Waterfall Visit, School Visit (seasonal) Optional Extras: N/A Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Physical Rating: Medium/High

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 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. This slick hostel looks more like a boutique hotel than a backpackers! Settle in, then head to our favourite beach restaurant in the evening for food and fun with your One Life family.

Accommodation: 4 Bed Dorms - Spin Designer Hostel (or similar) Activities: N/A Optional Extras: Massage, Beach Clean-up Meals: Breakfast Physical Rating: Low

Get ready to immerse yourself in unique Filipino culture! We'll take a short jungle hike to learn about the flora and fauna that grow in the lush rainforest before arriving at our exclusive jungle hut for a fun-filled day. Today's activities range from cooking authentic Filipino food, climbing coconut trees, traditional Filipino stick fighting, coconut shaving, learning Filipino dances and children's games, coconut leaf weaving, and more. Afterwards, you can take the optional zipline and enjoy a relaxing time on the stunning Las Cabanas Beach. It's an exhilarating adventure of flying between two islands over the ocean, followed by a day of relaxation that you're not likely to forget!

Accommodation: 4 Bed Dorms - Spin Designer Hostel (or similar) Activities: Cultural Day Optional Extras: Zipline (600/800 PhP) SUP Meals: Breakfast & Lunch Physical Rating: Medium/High

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.

Accommodation: 4 Bed Dorms - Spin Designer Hostel (or similar) Activities: El Nido Island Hopping Optional Extras: N/A Meals: Breakfast & Lunch Physical Rating: Medium/High

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.

Accommodation: 4 Bed Dorms - Spin Designer Hostel (or similar) Activities: Canopy Walk, 1hr Massage Optional Extras: Additonal Island Hopping Day, Scuba Diving, Boxing Class, Surfing Lesson *subject to availability Meals: Breakfast Physical Rating: Medium/High

Say goodbye to those only doing 10 days, and join the rest of the lucky ones on our Coron extension! 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.

Accommodation: Twin/Double Rooms – Acacia Garden Inn (or similiar) Activities: Fast Ferry to Coron Optional Extras: N/A Meals: Breakfast Physical Rating: Low

Today is a day for you to spend at your leisure! Relax at the accommodation or book an optional extra. You can hike Mount Tapyas, get some Scuba Diving in or go on an extra island hopping tour- the choice is yours.

Accommodation: Twin/Double Rooms – Acacia Garden Inn (or similiar) Activities: N/A Optional Extras: Mount Tapyas Hike, Island Hopping, Scuba Diving Meals: Breakfast Physical Rating: Low-High

Spend the day snorkelling in Coron’s top destinations. Pass by beautiful landscapes and beaches while snorkelling through the waters.

Explore the Lusong Gunboat Ship Wreck, a World War II shipwreck now transformed into an underwater haven for snorkellers. As you explore the sunken vessel, you’ll witness a unique mix of history and nature, with corals and marine creatures making the shipwreck their home.

Tonight you will spend the night in Pass Island and enjoy a bonfire with sunset cocktails.

Please note the activities on day 12 and 13 may alternate depending on each departure.

Accommodation: Multishare Tents/Huts - Pass Island (or similiar) Activities: Snorkeling, Bonfire Optional Extras: N/A Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Physical Rating: Medium/High

Today, you’ll continue your adventure on the stunning Coron Island, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and crystal-clear waters. Explore the vibrant Coral Garden, and admire the colorful marine life and coral formations.

After a morning of underwater exploration, unwind and rejuvenate at the Maquinit Hot Springs.

Please note the activities on day 12 and 13 may alternate depending on each departure.

Accommodation: Twin/Double Rooms – Acacia Garden Inn (or similiar) Activities: Snorkeling, Hot Springs Optional Extras: N/A Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Physical Rating: Medium/High

Today it's time to head to Philippines East where the second part of your tour will begin. Upon arrival in Cebu, you will be greeted at the airport. After settling into your accommodation, you can spend the day exploring Cebu City or take some time to rest and refresh. In the evening, you will join the rest of the group for a delicious welcome meal at one of our favorite spots.

Accommodation: Twin/Double Rooms – Hop Inn (or similar) Activities: Group Welcome Meal Optional Extras: N/A Meals: Breakfast Dinner Physical Rating: Low

Moalboal Bound! On the way, you will take a scenic drive through Cebu’s countryside. Your first stop will be at the beautiful Simala Shrine to experience Filipino culture and explore the stunning architecture and religious significance of the shrine.

Afterwards, upon arriving in Moalboal, you will check into your beachfront accommodation. You will have some free time to grab lunch and then you will head to the famous natural phenomenon – the Sardine Run for snorkelling. Get ready to snorkel amongst thousands of sardines, and if you are lucky, you may even spot a turtle or two!

Accommodation: Twin/Double Rooms – Pescadores Suites (or similar) Activities: Simala Shrine, Sardine Run Optional Extras: Massages, Scuba Diving Meals: N/A Breakfast Physical Rating: Medium

Today you will have an early start as you will head to Osmena Peak to catch the sunrise. It’s a short hike to the top where you can settle in and wait for the sunrise while enjoying the unique jagged hills and surrounding landscape.

Once the sun is up, you'll head down to a Filipino breakfast provided by a local restaurant. This purpose-driven business supports the local community by providing funds for locals to access college. After a tasty breakfast, you will make your way to a tropical swimming hole where you will spend the next few hours swimming and enjoying the tropical swimming hole before heading back to Moalboal.

The rest of the day is free for you to relax or explore the area further.

Accommodation: Twin/Double Rooms – Pescadores Suites (or similar) Activities: Osmena Peak, Swimming Hole Optional Extras: Massages, Scuba Diving, Lambug Beach Meals: Breakfast Physical Rating: Medium

After breakfast, you will start your journey to Bohol. You will take the scenic route back to Cebu City and then take a ferry to Bohol, where you can relax and enjoy the sea views. In the afternoon, you will arrive at our accommodation. You can unwind by the pool or have a cocktail at Alona Beach, known for its stunning sunsets.

Accommodation: Twin/Double Rooms – Abraham Bohol (or similar) Activities: N/A Optional Extras: Massages Meals: Breakfast Physical Rating: Low

Get ready to start your journey across Bohol’s breathtaking countryside. Your first stop is at the iconic Chocolate Hills, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the area. Then, continue your journey through the Mahogany Man-made Forest, a serene and picturesque road lined with towering mahogany trees.

Soon after, you will reach the Tarsier Sanctuary, where you will be able to observe these tiny primates in their natural habitat. Enjoy lunch at an open-air restaurant overlooking the Loboc River. After lunch, get ready to make a splash and connect with nature by stand-up paddle boarding or kayaking down the Loboc River. Here, you will be surrounded by lush greenery, tropical vegetation, and riverbanks rich with coconut palms.

Finish the day with a dessert-making workshop where you will learn how to make delicious traditional Filipino desserts.

Accommodation: Twin/Double Rooms – Abraham Bohol (or similar) Activities: Chocolate Hills Viewpoint, Tarsier Conservation, SUP or Kayak on Loboc River, Dessert Making Workshop Optional Extras: N/A Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Snacks Physical Rating: Medium

Today, you will visit a nearby school to spend time interacting with the local students. You will have the unique opportunity to engage in conversations, learn about their daily activities and education, and take a tour of their classrooms.

In the afternoon, you will go on a sunset tour around some of the most spectacular tropical waters. You will stop off to snorkel amongst the coral reefs and marine life, as Bohol is known for its vibrant underwater world. In the late afternoon, you will arrive at Virgin Island, a magical white sandbar, in time for the sunset, where you can watch the sun dip below the horizon.

In the evening, you will enjoy a traditional Filipino ‘boodle fight’ for dinner, a communal meal with various Filipino dishes served on banana leaves. Have a few cocktails and enjoy one of those ‘life is good’ moments with your One Life family.

Accommodation: Twin/Double Rooms – Abraham Bohol (or similar) Activities: School Visit, Snorkelling, Virgin Island sunset visit, sandbar dinner Optional Extras: N/A Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Physical Rating: Medium

Today, you will embark on an adventure to Boracay, renowned for its pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Your journey begins with a flight to Caticlan Airport, followed by a short trike ride to the ferry terminal, and then a brief 10-minute public ferry ride to Boracay. A car will pick you up and take you to your accommodation where you will be staying for the next three nights.

While Boracay is famous for its main beach, it also boasts numerous hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Freshen up and later in the evening, you will regroup for a sunset sailing excursion, promising unforgettable views and cherished moments.

Accommodation: Mixed room: 6 Share Dorm – Kommons Hostel (or similar) Activities: Boracay town walk, White Beach, & Sunset Cruise Optional Extras: Twin/Double Upgrade possible on availability Meals: Breakfast Physical Rating: Low

After breakfast, you will take a short ferry over to the mainland island of Malay, where you will visit the Motag Living Museum. This is a One Life exclusive and a one-of-a-kind cultural experience that showcases the traditional lifestyles of the locals in Caticlan. Dive deep into what it means to be Filipino and interact with the locals who are proud to show you the real side of rural Filipino life.

You will return to Boracay in the afternoon. Spend the rest of the day on the amazing White Beach, grab an optional massage, or get a kayak and explore the clear waters.

Accommodation: Mixed room: 6 Share Dorm – Kommons Hostel (or similar) Activities: Motag Living Museum Cultural Day Optional Extras: Massage, Crystal Kayak Meals: Breakfast Physical Rating: Low

Take your time and savour a leisurely morning at your own pace. In the afternoon, you will have the chance to share your adventures and discoveries. Embrace the opportunity to explore the lesser-known beaches in the area with your Hop on and Hop off bus pass. Whether you are drawn to secluded coves, hidden bays, or tranquil shores, there’s something magical waiting to be explored at every turn. Soak in the serenity of the coastline, listen to the gentle lapping of waves, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you.

Later in the day, you will set out to discover some of the island’s hidden treasures with your group. Picture yourself wandering along secluded beaches, discovering tiny islands, meandering through local villages, and soaking in the serene tropical landscapes. Finish the day by unwinding with a free massage.

Accommodation: Mixed room: 6 Share Dorm – Kommons Hostel (or similar) Activities: Hop On and Off Bus, Massage Optional Extras: Newcoast Beach, Crystal Kayak Meals: Breakfast Physical Rating: Low

Sadly, it’s time to bid farewell to this beautiful part of an amazing country. Hopefully, we will meet again, perhaps with new travel companions. After breakfast, the day is yours. You can choose to stay on in Boracay, or wrap up your three week dreamy Philippines holiday

Accommodation: NA Activities: NA Optional Extras: NA Meals: Breakfast Physical Rating: Low