Island-Hopping Philippines: 8-Day Palawan, Boracay & Cebu Adventure
An eight-day loop from Manila to Palawan, Cebu and Boracay that pairs subterranean caves, reef snorkeling and classic island-hopping. Expect daily flights, guided boat tours and a mix of short walks and beach time.
The Experience
Before You Go
Pack a dry bag
Multiple boat transfers and island-hopping days mean your phone and documents should stay dry and accessible.
Bring reef‑safe sunscreen
Coral reefs in Palawan and Boracay are sensitive — use mineral-based sunscreen to reduce impact.
Schedule buffer between flights
Domestic connections can be tight; allow extra time for transfers and check-in with local carriers.
Comfortable water shoes
Rocky riverbanks and coral on shorelines make slip-resistant shoes useful for short hikes and beach landings.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Puka Beach on Boracay for quieter sand and shell-hunting
- •Small coastal barangay eateries in Cebu for grilled seafood and lechon bites
Wildlife
- •Green sea turtles near reef flats
- •Tropical reef fish and schooling sardines in clear bays
Conservation Note
Coral reefs and mangroves are vulnerable — choose operators that follow reef‑safe practices and avoid single‑use plastics to reduce impact.
These islands reflect layers of Austronesian voyaging and Spanish colonial trade; Cebu was an early colonial hub and Palawan has long been a crossroads for indigenous communities and seafarers.
What to Bring
Dry bag (10–20L)Essential
Keeps electronics and documents safe during boat transfers and rainy spells.
Reef‑safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and fragile coral ecosystems while snorkeling and swimming.
Light waterproof jacket
Useful for sudden tropical showers, especially in Palawan during inter-monsoon periods.
Sturdy water shoesEssential
Protects feet on rocky beaches, riverbanks and while boarding small boats.
Common Questions
How much walking is involved?
Most days require short walks to sites and getting on/off boats; there are no long technical hikes but some stairs and uneven cave floors at the Underground River.
Are domestic flights included?
Yes — all domestic flights between Manila, Puerto Princesa, Cebu and Caticlan are included with a 20kg baggage allowance per the itinerary.
Is the Puerto Princesa Underground River accessible to all ages?
The river tour includes boarding a small boat and navigating caves with dim lighting; it's suitable for most ages but not recommended for those with serious mobility issues.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
The tour notes that special dietary needs cannot be accommodated reliably; travelers with strict requirements should bring snacks or communicate ahead to seek alternatives.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 days
Location
Manila, Metro Manila
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Light to moderate fitness — able to handle stairs, short hikes, boat steps and day‑long outings.
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