10 DAY ULTIMATE / 9 NIGHT GROUP TOUR

PHILIPPINES ADVENTURE

Manila – Puerto Princesa – Port Barton – El Nido

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$2,159

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$2,399

Tour charges are in AUD. Secure your date with a deposit today. See our booking policy for full terms.

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10 DAY ULTIMATE / 9 NIGHT GROUP TOUR

PHILIPPINES ADVENTURE

MANILA – PUERTO PRINCESA – PORT BARTON – EL NIDO

5.0 Rating - 9 Traveller Reviews

Prices start from

$2,159

Save 10%

$2,399

Tour charges are in AUD. Secure your date with a deposit today. See our booking policy for full terms.

Check Dates & BookCHECK DATES Get Trip NotesTrip Notes Request More InfoMore Info

TRIP OVERVIEW

Join us on our 10 Day Ultimate Philippines Island Adventure. From the buzz of Manila to the untouched beauty of Palawan and the iconic limestone islands of El Nido, this trip is packed with epic moments from start to finish. Explore a UNESCO underground river, island hop through crystal-clear waters, snorkel vibrant reefs, chase waterfalls and camp overnight on your own private beach. Mix adventure with culture, beach time and unreal scenery as you experience the Philippines the Ultimate way.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Experience the ultimate 10-day Philippines adventure from Manila to the paradise islands of Palawan and El Nido
Camp overnight on a secluded private island and wake up surrounded by crystal-clear waters
Island hop through El Nido, snorkel with sea turtles and discover hidden beaches and lagoons
Explore the UNESCO-listed Underground River and chase spectacular tropical waterfalls
Experience authentic Filipino culture with local community visits, cooking classes and traditional transport
Enjoy plenty of free time to relax, explore or customise your adventure
Fully guided by our award-winning ULTIMATE Group Leader with all transport and accommodation included
The perfect mix of island life, culture, adventure and unforgettable experiences

TOUR INCLUSIONS

Airport Arrival Transfer – Meet & greet on arrival and transfer to your first accommodation.
All Transport Day 1–10 – All included transport throughout the itinerary.
9 Nights Accommodation – Hostels, hotels, beachfront stays and a private beach camp.
9 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches & 3 Dinners – A mix of local meals and group dining experiences.
Award-Winning Group Leader – Led by an experienced Ultimate guide plus local crew.
Jeepneys, Trikes & Boats – Travel like a local using iconic Filipino transport.
Overnight Private Island Camping – Sleep on a secluded island under the stars.
Island Hopping Exclusive Boat – Explore untouched islands and hidden beaches.
Snorkelling with Turtles – Swim in crystal-clear waters with marine life.
UNESCO Underground River – Explore one of the world’s natural wonders.
Waterfalls & Beach Time – Chase waterfalls and relax on tropical beaches.
Local School or Community Visit – Seasonal cultural connection with local communities.
Filipino Cultural Experiences – Hands-on activities showcasing local traditions.
Cooking Class – Learn to cook traditional Filipino dishes.
El Nido Island Hopping & Viewpoints – Limestone cliffs, lagoons and iconic viewpoints.
Traditional Filipino Massage – Relax and unwind with a local wellness treatment.

ABOUT THE TOUR

ABOUT THE EXPERIENCE

The 10-Day Philippines Adventure is a tropical, island-hopping journey built around beaches, boats and unforgettable shared experiences. From exploring Manila to hopping between hidden islands, snorkelling vibrant reefs and kicking back at a remote beach camp, this trip is all about seeing the Philippines at its best — sun-soaked days, crystal-clear water and big group memories.

You’ll island hop by boat, snorkel colourful reefs, kayak through calm waters, climb coconut trees, discover local life, and spend time on secluded islands that feel a world away from everyday travel. One of the highlights is staying at our exclusive Beach Camp — pure paradise vibes, great company and nights you’ll still be talking about long after the trip ends.

Note: This is a partner tour. It’s not operated directly by ULTIMATE Travel, but delivered by our trusted ground partners in the Philippines who specialise in running outstanding small-group adventures. They manage the on-ground logistics, transport and guiding throughout the trip. You’ll travel alongside ULTIMATE travellers and other adventure travellers from around the world, creating a fun, social group atmosphere from day one. Once booked, our local partners will be in touch before departure with arrival details, trip notes and final pre-departure information.

ABOUT YOU

This tour is designed for travellers of all ages who are chasing sun, adventure and a social group vibe. You’ll love this trip if you’re happy spending your days in and around the ocean, enjoy active experiences mixed with downtime, and want a balance of exploration and fun. Whether you’re travelling solo or with friends, if island life, snorkelling, and beach nights sound like your kind of holiday, you’ll fit right in.

TRAVEL STYLE

This is a small-group, adventure-forward Philippines tour with a relaxed, tropical pace. Transport, accommodation and key activities are organised for you, with plenty of time to swim, explore, chill out and enjoy island life. Expect a mix of cities, islands and beach stays, plus a strong focus on shared experiences and group connection.

GROUP VIBE

The group vibe is social, energetic and laid-back. Many travellers join solo, and it doesn’t take long for everyone to click thanks to boat days, snorkelling trips, beach camp nights and shared meals. Some nights are all about relaxing under the stars, others turn into proper island parties — the balance comes naturally.

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL

The most popular time to travel to the Philippines is during the summer months from March to June, when the weather is hot, sunny and perfect for swimming, snorkelling and island hopping. If you prefer slightly cooler temperatures, the best time to visit is between November and February, which still offers great conditions for exploring and beach time.

WHERE WE STAY

On our 10-day Philippines West Group Tour, where you stay is just as important as where you go. Every accommodation has been carefully handpicked by our team to match the vibe of the trip and the travellers who join us. Each stay has been tried, tested and approved, so you can relax knowing you’re in good hands.

And when we say hostel, forget the old-school backpacker stereotypes. Our boutique hostels are modern, comfortable and designed for social travel. Expect spacious rooms, comfy beds, air conditioning, modern interiors, personal lights and charging points. Rooms are shared with a maximum of four people, or you can upgrade if you’d prefer your own space.

You’ll also experience one of the most unforgettable nights of the trip — overnight camping on a secluded beach. Falling asleep to the sound of the ocean and waking up on your own private island is all part of the adventure.

HOW TO BOOK

To book, select your chosen departure date and select if you require additional nights. Once you are booked, we will send you a booking confirmation as well as important information about your tour.

Your arrival flight should be booked to Manilla Airport.

Tour ends on Day 10. You can book your exit/onward flight from in El Nido or you can travel with the remaining group back to Puerto Princesa where the trip ends. You should book your flight from Puerto Princesa to any destination in the Philippines on Day 10 of the tour any time after 3pm. Please note: The journey from El Nido to Puerto Princesa takes 6 hours.

THE TOUR ITINERARY

Previous Next

Day 1 | Manila

Day 1 | Manila
Touch down in Manila and let the adventure begin. From the moment you land, you're looked after with an airport pickup straight to your central boutique hostel. Get settled, freshen up, then head upstairs to the rooftop terrace where you'll meet your group for a welcome dinner and a few drinks overlooking the Manila skyline. First night vibes: sorted.

Day 2 | Palawan

Day 2 | Palawan
This morning we're heading to paradise. After breakfast, we jump on a short flight to Puerto Princesa, the gateway to Palawan. Once checked in, the rest of the day is yours to cool off in the pool, book a massage, or just relax and soak it all in. Tonight, we head out for dinner at a local spot in this laid-back coastal town.

Day 3 | Underground River & Port Barton

Day 3 | Underground River & Port Barton
Early start, big reward. Today we visit the famous UNESCO-listed Underground River, exploring part of this natural wonder by boat. After lunch, we hit the road for a scenic journey to the remote beach town of Port Barton. The afternoon is all about island time – think fresh coconuts, golden sand, and reggae beats. Tonight, fall asleep in traditional beachfront bungalows with the sound of the ocean as your soundtrack.

Day 4 | Private Beach Camp

Day 4 | Private Beach Camp
Welcome to the Islander Experience. After breakfast, we hop on a local boat and head out for two unforgettable days exploring the islands around Port Barton. Along the way, you'll snorkel vibrant reefs, visit waterfalls, and stop at a local community school (seasonal). As the sun sets, we arrive at our private beach camp – just us, a bonfire, and the ocean. Dinner is a feast prepared by our local guides, and tonight you'll sleep in tents right on the sand.

Day 5 | Island Hopping

Day 5 | Island Hopping
More snorkelling, more hidden islands, more waterfalls, and more time doing absolutely nothing if that's your vibe. After a final swim and lunch, we make our way back to Port Barton. Activities across Days 4 and 5 may swap depending on conditions.

Day 6 | El Nido

Day 6 | El Nido
After breakfast, we jump in the van and head north to El Nido (often ranked as one of the most beautiful places on Earth). Towering limestone cliffs, turquoise water, and island-dotted bays await. Once you've picked your jaw up off the floor, we check into one of Palawan's coolest hostels. Tonight, we head out for dinner at our favourite beachfront spot with your new travel family.

Day 7 | Filipino Cultural Day

Day 7 | Filipino Cultural Day
Today is all about culture and connection. After a short jungle walk, we arrive at a private jungle hut where you'll spend the day learning traditional Filipino skills – cooking local dishes, climbing coconut trees, stick fighting, dancing, weaving, and more. In the afternoon, you can opt to zipline between islands or relax on Las Cabanas Beach.

Day 8 | El Nido Island Hopping

Day 8 | El Nido Island Hopping
This is the day you'll never forget. We jump on a boat and explore El Nido's iconic lagoons, beaches, and islands. Snorkel crystal-clear waters, swim with your group, and enjoy freshly prepared lunch on board. Postcard stuff, all day long.

Day 9 | Views, Chill & Massage

Day 9 | Views, Chill & Massage
This morning we tackle the canopy walk for epic views over El Nido Bay and Cadlao Island. After that, it's time to relax — a 1-hour traditional Filipino massage is included to ease those tired muscles. Spend the rest of the day however you like: beach time, more adventures, or total relaxation.

Day 10 | Departure Day

Day 10 | Departure Day
All good things must come to an end. After breakfast, we say goodbye to paradise with an included private van transfer back to Puerto Princesa, departing at 7:00am. If flying from Puerto Princesa, please book flights after 3:00pm. Prefer to skip the drive? You can fly directly from El Nido to Manila with AirSwift, a little extra cost, but a big time-saver.

WHERE WE STAY

The Ultimate Philippines West 10-Day Group Tour includes 9 nights accommodation.

Stay in a handpicked mix of boutique hostels and unique local stays, all personally tested and loved by our team.
Our boutique hostels are a world away from old-school dorms — expect spacious rooms, comfy beds, air conditioning, modern design, personal lights, and charging points.
Accommodation is based on 4-bed shared rooms or twin/double rooms, keeping things social without feeling crowded.
One night is spent camping on a secluded beach — a true highlight and an unforgettable part of the Philippines West experience.
Room upgrades are available for travellers who’d prefer a little extra privacy.

Philippines Where We Stay Manila - Z Hostel

Philippines Where We Stay Philippines Group Adventure Tour Port Barton - camping - 2 Person Tent

Philippines Where We Stay Philippines Group Adventure Tour

Philippines Where We Stay Philippines Group Adventure Tour Puerto Princesa - Canvas Boutique Hotel

Philippines Where We Stay Pass Island - Beach Huts - Shared Huts

Philippines Where We Stay Manila - Z Hostel - 4 Bed Dorm

BOOK TOURPhilippines Adventure

Making Your Booking Meeting Travellers Booking With Confidence

Pay Today: $300 AUD per person
Final payment due 45 days before your tour.

To make your booking, select your chosen departure date and any optional extras you would like to book. If you are unsure about optional extras or if you need additional accommodation before or after your tour, you can let us know later via email.

We'll send you a booking confirmation as well as important information about your tour. You can make payments on your tour balance sooner, or regularly, via our website here. A non refundable 5.25% booking processing fee applies to each booking, calculated on the value of your booking.

Travelling solo? Great! Most of the people you meet on tour will also be on a solo adventure! If you are curious as to who you could be travelling with, or want to make some friends before arriving, join our Travel Community and reach out to your potential new travel mates!

Booking with ULTIMATE is easy! We take payments securely via Mastercard or Visa Credit and Debit Card and we will charge you in Australian Currency (AUD). Your deposit is flexible and if you can no longer travel, you can save your deposit for a later trip or destination if you notify us 30 days before your scheduled tour date.

Making your booking is easy. Choose a date below, and if you have any questions about extras, deposits, or meeting other travellers, just get in touch — we're happy to help.

Good to Know | FAQs

Where does the tour start and finish?

Starts in Manila and ends in El Nido or Puerto Princesa. On Day 10, fly from El Nido or take a shuttle to Puerto Princesa (arriving ~1pm); book onward flights after 3pm.

Who will I be travelling with?

Like-minded travellers from all over the world; group sizes vary but stay under 30 people.

Do I need vaccinations?

Consult a GP. Hepatitis A vaccine strongly recommended, rabies pre-exposure optional. Malaria uncommon but stock up on bug spray for other diseases like dengue. Organise vaccines 4-6 weeks before travel.

Can I book extra nights?

Yes, add additional nights before or after your trip at checkout, or get in touch to chat with the crew.

Can you help me organise flights & insurance?

They recommend Skyscanner.com for flight comparisons. Travel insurance is mandatory on this trip.

Do I need a visa?

Most countries get a free 30-day tourist visa in the Philippines upon arrival; check with your local consulate/embassy for current information.

Does the tour return to Manila?

No, it finishes in El Nido on Day 10. Fly directly out of El Nido with AirSWIFT, or take included public transport back to Puerto Princesa (~6 hours); if flying from Puerto Princesa, ensure departure is after 3:00pm.

Can I upgrade to a private room?

Yes, choose a Double/Twin Share or Single Room upgrade when booking, or contact them afterward to check availability.

Can I bring a 25kg suitcase?

The domestic flight from Manila to Palawan has a 20kg checked luggage limit; extra weight can be expensive, so travel under 20kg is recommended.

Is diving available in El Nido?

Diving trips depart early morning and there’s only one free afternoon included, so you’d need to skip an included activity. Many travellers stay extra days after the tour to dive.

Can you cater for dietary requirements?

Yes, most dietary requirements can be accommodated — let them know before Day 1.

Do I need hiking shoes?

Minimal walking involved; sandals and trainers/running shoes are suitable.

Where do we stay on the first night?

The award-winning Z Hostel in Makati, one of Manila’s most popular social hostels.

What time can I fly out on the final day?

On Day 10, book flights after 11:00am from El Nido Airport, or after 3:00pm from Puerto Princesa Airport (allow ~30-45 mins to El Nido Airport, 6 hours to Puerto Princesa Airport).

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10 DAY ULTIMATE / 9 NIGHT GROUP TOUR

PHILIPPINES ADVENTURE

Manila – Puerto Princesa – Port Barton – El Nido

10 DAY ULTIMATE / 9 NIGHT GROUP TOUR

PHILIPPINES ADVENTURE