13 Days Relaxing in Bohol - EI Nido - Boracay can guide you through this decision. It covers three of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines: Bohol, Boracay, and El Nido in Palawan.Bohol is one of the top Visayas tourist spots and one of the must-visit Philippine destinations for nature lovers. The island's most iconic landmark is undoubtedly the Chocolate Hills.El Nido, meaning "The Nest" in Spanish, is located in the northern part of Palawan and is one of the must-visit Philippine destinations for adventure lovers. Joining island-hopping tours is one of the best things you can do here.Boracay consistently ranks as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The sand is soft and white and the water is calm and crystal-clear, making Boracay one of the top islands for beach lovers.
Day 1 : Arrival in Manila | Airport Pick-up and Hotel Check-in
Kumusta! Welcome to Manila, the capital of the Philippines! Upon your arrival at the airport in Manila, the tour guide and driver will meet you at the exit, and then escort you to the hotel . You can have a good rest for the jet leg in your hotel or visit around to explore for more on your own.
Known as the “Pearl of the Orient”, Manila is often the jump-off point to the country's incredible beaches, stunning islands, and unique natural wonders. Manila is an excellent hub for experiencing Philippine culture, history, shopping, and nightlife. Take your time to explore its lively streets, buildings, and people, who are full of energy.
Dining : None
Accommodation : Manila
Day 2 Manila - Bohol | Airport Pick-up and Hotel Check-in
According to your flight schedule, your guide will pick you up and bring you to Manila Airport, where you will board your domestic flight to Bohol. Bohol-Panglao International Airport is located on the island of Panglao, and the main transportation hub to the natural wonders of Bohol.
Upon arrival at the airport, your guide will pick you up to bring you to your hotel for check-in. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
Bohol is a main island located in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines. It offers a wide range of options for travelers, from natural attractions to cultural heritage sites and unique island activities. In addition to the cute bug-eyed tarsiers and the majestic Chocolate Hills, there's much more to experience, such as white sand beaches, world-class dive sites, dolphin and whale shark watching, and the generally laid-back provincial of Panglao Island, these are what give Bohol its unique charm.
Dining :Breakfast
AccommodationPanglao or Bohol
Day 3 : Bohol Countryside Tour | Tarsier Sanctuary, Chocolate Hills, Loboc River Cruise
Start your day with a visit to Bohol's first church, the historic Baclayon Church. Built from coral stone, this prime example of Baroque architecture in the Philippines features intricate designs and beautiful frescoes. It's a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the rich cultural heritage of Bohol.
Next, you'll board a floating restaurant and enjoy a delicious meal while cruising down the clean and picturesque Loboc River. As you take in the natural surroundings and enjoy a cultural show by the locals, you'll feel a sense of peace and tranquility that is hard to find in the city.
After lunch, you'll drive through the Man-Made Forest, a two-kilometer stretch of road lined with towering mahogany trees that make for the perfect photo opportunity. Then, it's on to the Corella Tarsier Sanctuary, home to the world's smallest primates, the tarsiers, which are known for their large eyes and unique ability to rotate their heads up to 180 degrees. Watch the cute tarsiers sleep in tree branches and lazily lounge about, but be sure not to touch or disturb them.
Finally, you'll head to the famous Chocolate Hills, over a thousand cone-shaped hills that turn brown during the dry season, giving them the appearance of chocolate mounds. From the viewing deck, you'll marvel at the breathtaking view of this unique natural wonder, and the hills' unusual shape will leave you wondering about their origin.
Dining : Breakfast,Lunch
Accommodation : Panglao or Bohol
Day 4 : Panglao Island Hopping | Balicasag and Virgin Islands
Your guide will pick you up early in the morning at your hotel. You will then be transferred to the boat docking area where you will start your island-hopping tour of Balicasag and Virgin Islands. Your first activity for the day is dolphin watching and searching on the way to Balicasag Island. This area teems with diverse marine wildlife, including at least seven different species of wild whales and countless wild dolphins. Take note that seeing dolphins is not guaranteed. If you are lucky, you might see these creatures jumping up close.
After that, you'll head to Balicasag Island. Balicasag Island is a must-visit destination in the Philippines for all nature and marine life lovers. Its stunning 3000-feet-deep fault, known as the deepest and most beautiful underwater cliff in Asia, is a natural wonder that draws tourists from all over the world. During your visit to Balicasag Island, you will have the opportunity to go snorkeling at the "Rose Coral Garden," an area surrounded by countless colorful coral reefs and tropical fish. Even without diving, you can see a variety of marine creatures, tropical fish, and sea turtles.,,Next, head to the natural ecological protected island of Virgin Island (Note: Not accessible during high tide, the tour guide will check the tide time beforehand). As the tide recedes, the beautiful Virgin Island gradually emerges in front of you, with a pure crescent-shaped white sandbar in the middle of the sea that makes you feel like you are in a dreamland. You can stroll through this natural wonder and pick up various starfish and sea urchins that are scattered on the sand. Some of the starfish are so big that they will leave you amazed! After island-hopping, you will have lunch onboard a board or at an island restaurant.
Lastly, you'll be transferred back to your hotel to rest. Kindly note that some activities may be subject to change due to weather conditions. Your safety is our top priority, and we may need to reschedule or cancel activities in case of unfavorable weather conditions such as strong winds. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we ensure a safe and enjoyable island-hopping experience.
Dining : Breakfast,Lunch
Accommodation : Panglao or Bohol
Day 5 : Lila Whale Shark Watching
After breakfast, your guide will pick you up at your hotel and drive (about a 1-hour drive) to Lila town on Panglao Island. And then board a boat for a unique experience of swimming with whale sharks - the largest sharks and fish in the world, typically measuring 9-12 meters in length. The largest individuals can reach up to 20 meters in length and weigh up to 12,500 kg, making them the largest fish species. Whale sharks are known for their gentle nature, slow swimming speed, and often sunbathing at the water's surface. When you have the opportunity to get up close and personal with them, play with them and take pictures, you'll add an unforgettable memory to your extraordinary life. After swimming with the whale sharks, you will be transferred back to your hotel. Take note that seeing whale sharks during this tour is NOT GUARANTEED. Whale sharks are migratory animals, and even during the whale shark season, there is a possibility that you may not encounter one during your tour.
Optional Evening Activity: Have a magical experience with the Abatan River or Loay River firefly watching tour during sunset. Usually around 5:30-6:00 pm.
Dining : Breakfast
Accommodation : Panglao or Bohol
Day 6 : Bohol Flight to EI Nido | Airport Transfers & Hotel Check-in
According to your flight schedule, your guide will pick you up and bring you to airport, where you will board your domestic flight to EI Nido.
Note: The direct flight between Bohol and El Nido operates on specific days of the week (Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday). If there is no direct flight available that day, an alternative option would be to arrange for a ferry transfer from Bohol to Cebu. From Cebu, you can then take a domestic flight to El Nido.
Upon arrival in EI Nido , you will be met by your driver and transferred to your hotel. Lio Airport is located approximately 7 kilometers north of El Nido town in Palawan.,,As one of the most popular tropical paradises on Palawan Island, El Nido is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and adventure of the Philippines. This coastal town is home to an abundance of stunning white sandy beaches and incredible lagoons waiting for you to explore. Besides, El Nido is renowned for its stunning sunsets, which are considered by many to be among the best in the world.
Dining : Breakfast
Accommodation : EI Nido
Day 7 : El Nido Island Hopping 1 | Tour A: Miniloc Island, Shimizu island, Seven Commando Beach
El Nido got its name from the Spanish phrase for “the nest” because of the edible bird nests made by swiftlets that can be found in the crevices of its limestone cliffs. This destination is renowned as the “Heaven on Earth”, and it comprises 45 islands and islets (Bacuit Archipelago), many of which are uninhabited. Enjoy your days in El Nido is with the crystal clear waters, white sand beaches, stunning lagoons, amazing limestone cliffs, magical marine life, rocky islets, and perfect weather !For the first El Nido Island Hopping tour in the Bacuit Bay (El Nido Tour A), you will have fun in the tropical dreamland by hoping to Miniloc Island for lagoons, Shimizu island for snorkeling, and Seven Commando Beach for relaxation.
You will start the world-class island hopping tour in El Nido by a boat ride to Miniloc Island, where you can visit its breathtaking lagoons, including the Big Lagoon and Secret Lagoon. The Big Lagoon is a must-visit destination of El Nido in Bacuit Bay. You can access it by outrigger boat, and during low tide, you can walk or kayak through the channel. Once inside the lagoon, you will be awestruck by the stunning natural swimming hole with emerald green waters, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. Depending on the tide, you may need to scramble or swim through a small crevice on the rock's surface to reach the Secret Lagoon. Although the Secret Lagoon may not be a secret anymore, it remains one of the most photographed attractions in El Nido, offering a hidden world waiting to be explored. After that, you may have a lunch stop at Payong-Payong Beach, one of the picturesque white sand beaches on Miniloc Island. Here, you can either experience the thrill of swimming amidst the strong waves or savor the chill vibe of splashing around in gentle waves.,,Your next stop on Tour A will be Shimizu Island, which is renowned as one of the top snorkeling spots in El Nido. Here, you'll have the opportunity to encounter a diverse range of beautiful corals and other marine life. Thanks to its stunning limestone cliffs covered with vegetation, Shimizu Island is considered a representative of the geological beauty of El Nido. Legend has it that the island was named after a diver whose last name was Shimizu. However, it can get a bit crowded during midday as it is also an alternative stopover spot for lunch. Typically, you will enjoy a delicious grilled lunch on the beach, featuring grilled meat and seafood, vegetables, rice, and fresh fruits for dessert.
Finally, you will move to Seven Commando Beach, which has a fascinating story to tell. According to one account, seven soldiers got stranded here during World War II. The beach features a long stretch of white sand lined with coconut trees, providing the perfect spot to have a sunbath and relax. You can also enjoy refreshing drinks while taking in the beautiful ocean scenery. While snorkeling, you may be lucky enough to encounter a few sea turtles, so keep your eyes peeled. After your El Nido Tour A, head back to overnight in El Nido Town.
Dining : Breakfast,Lunch
Accommodation:EI Nido
Day 8 : El Nido Island Hopping 2 | Tour B: Snake Island, Pinagbuyutan Island, Cudugnon Cave, Cathedral Cave
After breakfast, it is time to begin your El Nido Island Hopping Tour (El Nido Tour B) to witness some of Palawan’s best islands and caves. This tour would covers the highlights of Snake Island, Pinagbuyutan Island, Cudugnon Cave, Cathedral Cave, Entalula Island, and Papaya Beach (if time permit). It is an amazing journey that combines sandbars, caves, and uniquely-shaped islands. Furthermore, your El Nido Island Hopping today (tour B) is often less crowded than tour A.
Your first stop on El Nido Island Hopping Tour B will be Snake Island (Vigan Island). Known for its winding sandbar visible only at low tide, Snake Island is one of the most unique spots in El Nido to experience the feeling of walking in the middle of the sea. The island gets its name from its S-shaped sandbar, which connects it to the mainland (Bacuit Archipelago). At low tide, you can walk on the sand stripe between the two islands and admire the crystal-clear waters and white-sand beaches. At high tide, the sandbar is two feet underwater, creating a beautiful sight. Snake Island also offers a quick hike up to a stunning viewing point at the top where you can take in a bird's eye view of the sandbar. Enjoy the views of the white sand stretching out like a long snake, winding its way along the island.
Next, you'll hop to Pinagbuyutan Island (Ellis Island), where you'll marvel at the dramatic towering limestone cliffs that shoot straight up from the sea, topped off with lush jungle vegetation. This gumdrop-shaped island is a favorite destination in El Nido. Pinagbuyutan Island is also known as Survivor Island due to its appearance on the popular reality TV show, Survivor, and it is said to be the inspiration for the movie “The Beach”, along with other beautiful attractions in El Nido like the Big Lagoon and Secret Lagoon. Pinagbuyutan Island is perfect for swimming and snorkeling, as there are some excellent reefs to explore just offshore. Take in the colorful underwater life beneath the emerald-colored water. It's also the perfect place for a lunch break, where you can relax on the long beach and enjoy the breeze under the coconut trees.
After lunch, you'll head to Cudugnon Cave which offers a unique perspective of El Nido's islands through an enormous cavern hidden behind an inconspicuous hole in the limestone wall. During World War II, locals used the cave as a hiding place from invaders. It is also believed to be a Neolithic burial site for ancient Palawenos and settlers from Borneo. Experts have discovered artifacts such as jewelry, pottery, and human bones dating back to the Chinese Song Dynasty (960-1279 A.D.). To enter Cudugnon Cave, you'll need to squeeze through a small rocky hole before reaching the well-lit cave with a high ceiling. Take your time exploring the beautiful limestone and marble walls inside the cave, and don't forget to search the crevices of the cave's roof where swallows (swiftlets) and bats reside. You know that El Nido got its name from the Spanish phrase "the nest", and the swiftlets are the owners of these nests. After the cave exploration tour, you can relax on the secluded white sand beach near the cave's entrance.,,If time permits, you can make a photo stop at the Cathedral Cave on Pinasil Island. As your boat approaches the cave, you'll be amazed by the huge cavern with an opening even higher than the Puerto Princesa Underground River. This stunning shallow cave features towering walls shaped like cathedral spires. It's also an important nesting site for swiftlets, whose nests made of dried saliva are the main ingredient in the exotic bird’s nest soup.
You'll also have the opportunity to visit picturesque Entalula Island, which boasts a pristine beach and perfect snorkeling and swimming opportunities. Take in the beauty of the crystal-clear waters and the amazing rock formations, including the free-standing diamond-shaped rock. Enjoy the serene and peaceful atmosphere of this beautiful island before concluding your El Nido Tour B today.
Dining : Breakfast,Lunch
Accommodation : EI Nido
Day 9 : El Nido Island Hopping 3 | Tour C: Helicopter Island, Matinloc Shrine, Secret Beach, Tapiutan Island, Hidden Beach
Are you keen to explore the most beautiful beaches in El Nido? If so, you'll absolutely love Island Hopping Tour C, which takes you to the world-famous beaches of El Nido in Bacuit Bay, Palawan. Today's tour is even more popular than Tour A and has captivated the attention of Hollywood blockbuster filmmakers. Exciting stops at Helicopter Island, Matinloc Shrine, Secret Beach, Tapiutan Island, and Hidden Beach cover beautiful islands, beaches, snorkeling spots, and the uncanny Matinloc Shrine.
Departing from El Nido Pier, you'll first arrive at Helicopter Island (Dilumacad Island), named for its rock formations that resemble a helicopter from a distance. Although some visitors may find it challenging to see the similarity, the island's towering limestone cliffs covered in lush vegetation and pristine beaches are a sight to behold. The island boasts excellent snorkeling spots and underwater tunnels that advanced divers will appreciate. Viewing the colorful corals and small fish in the clear waters is a super enjoyable experience. The island is also one of the nesting grounds for sea turtles living near the province, so if you visit during the right season, you might get the chance to see the release of baby turtles into the waters. With 300 meters of white sand beach, it's an excellent place to swim, relax, and enjoy the beautiful beachscape.
The next stop will be Matinloc Island, home to the unique Matinloc Shrine since 1982. Known as the Shine of Our Lady of Matinloc, this spiritual oasis provides a stunning panoramic view of Tapiutan Island, which lies opposite Matinloc Island. These two neighboring islands form the narrow Tapiutan Strait, home to some of the best snorkeling spots in the area, such as Talisay Beach and Star Beach (with starfish), which are fantastic spots to see the beauty of the coral reefs. After admiring the clear sea and the limestone landscapes and learning the stories behind the Matinloc Shrine, you may enjoy a delicious barbecued lunch before heading off to Secret Beach. Accessing Secret Beach can be a bit of a challenge as you need to swim through a cave to enter, but your guide help you enter this little paradise. Once inside, you can relax on the small beach or snorkel and see some pretty fish at the entrance. It is said that Alex Garland, author of the novel-turned-film "The Beach", lived and wrote his bestseller in El Nido, likely inspired by the Secret Beach's beauty.
Meanwhile, Hidden Beach is a popular stop perfect for swimming and resting. This small paradisiac cove concealed by limestone rock and impossible to see from the open sea. Its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters make it a must-visit spot in El Nido. In fact, Hidden Beach was so beautiful that Survivor Sweden finished their three-month filming at this beach. The Hidden Beach is also a great spot for snorkeling, where you can easily see various species of corals and fish.
After exploring the hidden beaches and shrines on El Nido Tour C, it is time to go back to El Nido town for overnight.
Dining : Breakfast,Lunch
Accommodation : EI Nido,Helicopter Island
Day 10 : El Nido Flight to Boracay via Caticlan | White Beach
According to your flight schedule, your guide will pick you up and bring you to airport, where you will board your domestic flight to Caticlan. Caticlan Airport, also known as Godofredo P. Ramos Airport, is located in Caticlan and is the main transportation hub to the paradise island of Boracay.,,Boracay Island, located in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines, is one of the country's most famous tourist destinations. The island is shaped like a dumbbell and is only 7 kilometers long, but it boasts a 4-kilometer stretch of white sand beach known as the "finest beach in the world". The island features powdery white sand beaches, abundant marine life, and various water sports activities. With hotels, resorts, restaurants, and nightclubs that offer a range of services and entertainment for tourists, Boracay attracts visitors from around the world.
Upon arrival at the airport, your guide will pick you up to bring you to the Jetty port for your 15-minute boat crossing to Boracay. And then you will be transported from portto your hotel for check-in.
After getting settled, you can explore the famous White Beach of Boracay. With its glorious, powdered-sugar sand, White Beach becomes the island’s main attraction and is one of the top Visayas tourist spots. The beach is divided into three areas, Stations 1, 2, and 3.
Station 1 is known for its high-end resorts and tranquil ambiance, offering a more laid-back and luxurious beach experience.
Station 2 is the heart of White Beach, bustling with activity. Here, you'll find a vast array of restaurants, bars, shops, and clubs. D’ Mall, the popular shopping center on the island, is in Station 2.
Station 3 is the quietest part of White Beach, known for its relaxed vibe and more budget-friendly accommodation options.
Dining :Breakfast
Accommodation : Boracay
Day 11 : Boracay Island Hopping | Crocodile Island, Crystal Island, Magic Island, Puka Beach, Sunset Sailing
Discover the natural attractions of Boracay Island with our private island-hopping tour. This is perfect for travelers who want to visit the beautiful beaches in the area without having to worry about arranging everything, as our private island-hopping tour already comes with boat transfers, entrance fees to each island, snorkeling fees, and sunset sailing fees.
After breakfast, your guide will meet you at your hotel and take you to either Crocodile Island or Coral Fish Park Reserve for snorkeling, depending on the weather conditions. Both are two popular spots for snorkeling in Boracay. Crocodile Island is known for its crystal-clear waters and its shape looks like a giant crocodile’s head. Coral Fish Park Reserve is a protected area teeming with well-preserved coral reefs and an abundance of tropical fish.
Next, you’ll then head to Crystal Cove Island, which is an artificial private island. There are two natural caves on this small island, and the water under the cave is very clear, and when the sun shines, the inside of the cave is shining like crystal, which is very beautiful. Note: the sandy beach of the island is coarse and it is not recommended to play barefoot.
After enjoying the beautiful scenery of Crystal Island, cliff diving in Magic Island is not to be missed, the 3-10 meter jumping platform allows you to show off and jump, and the friends who are afraid of diving are also good to enjoy listening to the exciting cheers on the side.
You’ll take a break after cliff diving and savor a delicious lunch and then you’ll head to Puka Beach. This serene beach features soft, white sand made up of small crushed puka shells, which is how it got its name. You can just quietly enjoy the beach the whole afternoon or try some water sports (optional) such as parasailing, sea walking, diving, etc. Note: Additional activities are optional, and if you're interested in participating, you can pay the fee on-site.
As dusk approaches, you'll get to experience the final activity of your tour - sunset sailing in Friday Beach. This traditional water sport in Boracay is a cool and romantic way to ride the waves during sunset. (Note: sailing fee is based on 6 people sharing one boat, additional fee required for a private boat).,,Kindly remind that some activities may be subject to change due to weather conditions. Your safety is our top priority, and we may need to reschedule or cancel activities in case of unfavorable weather conditions such as strong wind.etc. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we ensure a safely and enjoyable island-hopping experience.
Dining : Breakfast,Lunch
Accommodation : Boracay
Day 12 : Free Day at Leisure in Boracay
Today, you can enjoy the beach freely! There are many beaches to choose from: White Beach, Diniwid Beach and Bulabog Beach (Yapak Beach), etc. Build a sandcastle or relax under the shade of a coconut tree. Take a stroll on the beautiful and quiet white sand, and don't miss the sunset! As the night falls, the beach transforms into a huge bar with colorful lights and music, offering a variety of leisure and entertainment facilities.
Recommended Beaches:
1.White Beach - The sand is made up of large ground-up coral pieces, the sand is white and delicate, with a long beach stretch, complete with various leisure and entertainment facilities.
2.Bulabog Beach - Located opposite to White Beach, Bulabog Beach is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. The suitable winds and waves make it an ideal spot for activities like windsurfing, kitesurfing, and paddleboarding.
3.Diniwid Beach - A small and peaceful beach located in the northwest of the island, Diniwid Beach has relatively few tourists and is mainly used by hotel guests. There are no vendors here, making it a quiet place to relax.
4.Ilig-Iligan Beach - This lesser-known beach is located in the northern part of Boracay and offers stunning views of the ocean and a more secluded atmosphere. It's a great spot for swimming and sunbathing, with a few small restaurants nearby.
Dining : Breakfast
Accommodation : Boracay
Day 13 : Boracay Departure | Hotel Check-out and Airport See-off
On this day, you will have some free time in Boracay until your guide and driver will escort you to the airport/port for your flight or boat/ferry to your next destination.
Thank you for choosing Indochina Holidays Travel for your vacation. We are always here to serve you and look forward to welcoming you back for your next trip to the Philippines!
Dining : Breakfast
Accommodation : None
Professional licensed English-speaking guide;
Domestic flights (economy class) or ferries as listed in the itinerary;
Admission tickets for all attractions listed in the itinerary;
Accommodation as listed in the itinerary (economy class hotels);
Necessary vehicle transfers as listed in the itinerary;
Airport transfers: it include airport transfers to and from the hotel;
Meals listed in “breakfast” or “lunch” in the above day to day itinerary;
Travel insurance
24/7 customer support
Entry visa fees
Arrival/departure flights or ferries on the first and last day
Personal expenses
Single room supplement
Recommended optional activities: It may offer optional activities that are not included in the tour price, such as scuba diving, hot spring, etc.
Tips or gratuities for guides and drivers