Exploring the Philippines: A 21-Day Itinerary

Marianne Belanger
Dec 15, 2024
5 min read

Updated: Dec 21, 2024

The Philippines, a stunning archipelago in Southeast Asia, is home to over 7,600 islands, each showcasing vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes. With Manila as the bustling capital, this tropical paradise is a playground for adventure seekers and culture lovers alike. If you’re eager to explore powdery beaches, lush forests, and lively festivals, this 21-day itinerary will guide you through the best experiences the Philippines has to offer.

Day 1-3 : Bohol
Day 4-6 : Siquijor
Day 7-9 : Moalboal
Day 10-12 : Siargao
Day 13-15 : Coron
Day 16-18 : El Nido
Day 19-20 : Port Barton
Day 21 : Last day
Budget

Overview

Before diving into the itinerary, here’s a quick video I put together to summarize our trip to the Philippines. You can find more videos on our YouTube channel!

We’ve also written detailed blog posts for each destination, covering activities, budget, and accommodations. Be sure to check them out, and don’t miss our post on what to pack for your trip to the Philippines!

Day 1-3: Arriving in Cebu and Exploring Bohol

Cebu, the second-largest city in the Philippines, is often a convenient entry point. We opted to head straight to Bohol by ferry, planning to explore Cebu later. Cebu serves as a major hub, offering easy access to other islands, but we recommend just a day here—there’s so much more to discover!

Picture of us at the doorstep of Cebu's airport — Arriving at Cebu, Philippines

Bohol Overview:

A haven for nature lovers, Bohol features stunning waterfalls, tarsier sanctuaries, and scenic hiking trails, alongside opportunities for snorkeling and exploring caves. It’s an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

How to Get There:

Ferry: Cebu to Tagbilaran, 2 hours with Ocean Jet (875 PHP / 15 USD per person). Tickets can be purchased directly at the port.

Where to Stay in Bohol:

Water to Forest Ecolodge: Nestled in the forest, offering private rooms and dormitories with a peaceful riverside setting, perfect for unwinding after a long journey.

Tropical setting with a bamboo house, surrounded by lush greenery and palm trees. A stone path leads to the entrance. Bright blue sky. Entrance of the Water to Forest Encolodge Bohol, Philippines — Water to Forest Ecolodge, Bohol

Activities :

Caving
Swimming with whale sharks
Hiking
Waterfalls

TIP: Consider swimming with whale sharks in Bohol rather than Oslob (Cebu) to save time and transportation hassle. (More details in our Bohol article.)

Day 4-6: Discovering the Wonders of Siquijor

Siquijor, a lesser-known gem, is just a ferry ride from Tagbilaran. Although it’s often overlooked by tourists, it’s known among Filipinos for its mystical heritage, including witchcraft and healing traditions, which add a unique cultural flavor to any trip.

How to Get There:

Ferry: Tagbilaran to Siquijor, 2 hours with Ocean Jet (830 PHP / 14.5 USD per person). Tickets can be bought directly at the port.

Person with a backpack walks on a pier at sunset. A ferry labeled "CITY OF ILOILO" is docked. Warm orange sky with clouds in the background. In Siquijor port Philippines — **Ferry to Siquijor**

Where to Stay in Siquijor:

Firefly Treehouse Lazi (Airbnb): A serene forest retreat where you can enjoy firefly displays at night, with a beautiful waterfall nearby.

A-frame hut with thatched roof in lush garden, surrounded by trees. Hammock on porch, shoes on grass. Tranquil, natural setting. The firefly tree house in Lazi, Siquijor, Philippines — Firefly Treehouse Lazi, Siquijor

Payag ni Kaptan: Conveniently located near the port for early departures, offering a charming, rustic atmosphere with private rooms and an outdoor shower

Women reading her book in a hammock at Payag ni Kaptan Siquijor in from of the small hut with palm tree roof — Payag ni Kaptan, Siquijor

Activities :

Caving
Cliff Jumping
Hiking
Waterfalls

Day 7-9: Moalboal

Moalboal, located on Cebu Island, is known for its vibrant town atmosphere, famous sardine run, stunning waterfalls, and scenic beaches. Reaching it involved a bus and ferry from Siquijor, but the journey was worth it!

Person in a helmet and life jacket poses under a waterfall in a rocky, lush green setting, conveying excitement and adventure. In Kawasan Canyonnering — Canyoneering Activity at Moalboal

How to Get There:

Ferry : Siquijor to Dumaguete (1.5 hours),
Ferry : Sibulan to Liloan Port (30 minutes).

Total cost: 505 PHP / 8.7 USD per person.

Public buses from Liloan to Moalboal cost about 140 PHP / 2.4 USD each.

TIP: Local buses are more affordable than tourist transport—be sure to ask for directions and bargain for tricycle rides.

Where to Stay in Moalboal:

Westcoast Beach House: Budget-friendly with private rooms or dorms, common showers, and a great location near Panagsama Beach.

Activities :

Canyoneering
Waterfalls
Hiking
Snorkeling

Day 10 - 12: Cloud 9 - Siargao, a vibe

Siargao is a surfer’s paradise with diverse attractions like island-hopping tours, wakeboarding, and scenic rock pools. It has surf spots for all levels and a lively vibe, making it ideal for meeting fellow travelers.

Lush green coconut palm forest stretches to distant rolling hills under a partly cloudy sky, creating a vibrant and tranquil landscape in Siargao — Palm trees at Siargao

How to Get There:

Bus: From Moalboal to Cebu airport.
Flight: From Cebu airport. Booking early can save you money.
Tricycle/private transfer: From Siargao's airport to your accommodation

Where to Stay in Siargao:

Mad Monkey Siargao: A lively hostel with activities, a bar, and a restaurant—perfect for socializing.

Rustic beach bar with wooden tables, sandy floor, vibrant murals, and hanging straw lamps under a thatched roof. Relaxed, tropical vibe. At the Mad Monkey hostel in Siargao — Mad Monkey hostel in Siargao

Mahajab Homestay: A quieter option for those seeking relaxation, still close to major attractions and beaches.

Activities :

Island hoping
Surfing
Wake boarding

Day 13-15: Famous city of Coron

Coron, renowned for its breathtaking island-hopping tours and underwater wonders, offers top-notch snorkeling and diving experiences, as well as stunning views from Mount Tapyas.

Boats docked near a wooden walkway with tourists in orange life vests. Limestone cliffs and green trees surround the clear blue water. In Kayangan Lake Coron — Kayangan Lake in Coron

How to Get There:

Flight: From Siargao to Cebu, then onward to Coron.
Van : From Coron airport to your accommodation (No other choice at the airport)

Where to Stay in Coron:

Harbour Bliss Hotel: A bit on the pricier side, but offers clean and comfortable rooms close to the port. Good for those looking to splurge a little.

Activities :

Island hopping
Diving
Hiking

Day 16-18: El - Nido

Located near Coron in Palawan, El Nido is famous for its dramatic scenery, island-hopping tours, snorkeling, and diving opportunities. It’s a highly tourist-friendly destination, ideal for exploring natural beauty.

Two people stand in the ocean at sunset, silhouetted against an orange sky. A boat floats nearby, with dark hills in the background. In El Nido. — Las Cabanas Beach, El Nido

How to Get There:

Ferry: Coron to El Nido with Montenegro Shipline (3040 PHP / 52 USD per person). Be prepared for a potentially bumpy ride—anti-nausea medication is recommended

Where to Stay in El Nido:

Frendz Hostel El Nido: Offers a range of activities, a rooftop infinity pool, and a prime location close to beaches and restaurants.

Frendz Hostel at El Nido

Activities :

Island hopping
Swimming
Zip-lining

Day 19-20: Port Barton

This laid-back beach town in Palawan offers a relaxing escape from the crowds. It’s a great place to enjoy white sandy beaches in peace.

How to Get There:

Van: El Nido to Port Barton (3 hours, 1150 PHP / 20 USD per person).

Where to Stay in Port Barton:

Cocorico Hostel: A lively spot near the beach, known for its social atmosphere and free evening cocktails.

Activities :

Just relax : you deserve it at this point!

Last Day : 21

While Cebu is worth a quick visit, its urban sprawl makes it less appealing than the natural wonders around it. We recommend allocating just half a day to explore before heading to the airport.