Escapism in the Philippines

Camp on your own private island in the Northern Palawan, paddleboard on the Loboc River and explore the Chocolate Hills by quad bike

What's Included

Accommodation in twin rooms
Max 14 travellers per group
Experienced Pack Leader with you throughout the trip
All activities mentioned on the itinerary
11 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners
Stay in hand-picked 3-4 star hotels
We offset the carbon emissions per person on this trip
Arrival & departure transfers included
All local transport including minibus, ferries & private boat
2 domestic flights

Flashpackers are required to produce proof of COVID-19 vaccination 30 days before departure OR proof of a negative test within 72 hours of their adventure starting. Flashpackers must also provide evidence that they have purchased travel insurance for the duration of their adventure. Remember, flights aren't included and prices are based on sharing a twin room. If you'd like to upgrade to a single room, you can add this during the booking process or by contacting our Customer Experience team.

About your trip

The Philippines boasts over 7,000 islands, each as idyllic as the last. Where does one even begin?

Right here, with Flash Pack.

From Manila to Bohol, prepare to have every beach bum craving you’ve ever had satisfied. We’re talking beach camping beneath the stars on your own private island. You read that right – your own private island, in the Philippines. There’ll be days spent on private boats island hopping from one coral-rich lagoon to yet another sugar-white sand beach (honestly, they’re everywhere), as well as just the right amount of adrenaline as you quad bike through the Chocolate Hills and SUP your way along the emerald waters of the Loboc River.

Endless fresh Filipino food, dramatic scenery, the right kind of people to enjoy it with – there may be over 7,000 islands, but there’s only one way to do the Philippines.

Our Favourite Hotels

Here's a taste of the hotels we sometimes use on this adventure. The hotels you'll stay in for your departure will be shared with you one month before you go.

Ginto Island Camp

Bed down on the untouched Ginto Island in unique mesh tents (ideal for stargazing) on the secluded beach Linapacan, miles away from civilisation. A true off-grid experience that lets you experience wild living with the added touch of a private boat and chef.

Loboc River Resort

Nestled beside a placid river in breathtaking natural surroundings, these gorgeous indigenous-inspired huts are built on stilts and connected by wooden bridges. During high tide summer floods, the whole resort feel like it’s floating. Enjoy typical Boholano cuisine and sundowners at the open-air riverside restaurant.

Coco Beach Resort, El Nido

Steps away from the beach and surrounded by lush greenery, the sunset views here are pure magic. You’ll have access to a beautiful pool in the heart of a tropical garden (complete with its own bar, of course), a relaxing spa, and a restaurant famous for its delicious shrimp curry. It’s no wonder this resort is an El Nido favourite…

Important Notes

Which airport do I need to fly in and out of? Plus airport code

Fly into Manila International Airport (MNL).

The trip ends on Day 12 on Bohol Island. From here, a ferry transfer is included to Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) on Cebu Island, which has many international connections.

Alternatively, you can choose to finish the trip on Bohol Island and make your own way to Bohol-Pangloa International Airport (TAG), which has regular flights to Manila. Please note there is no reduction in price if you decide not to take the ferry transfer.

What time should my flight arrive (in time for the welcome meeting)?

Before 3 pm ideally. The welcome meeting and dinner will be from 5 pm onwards starting at the hotel, which is located approximately 15 minutes away from the airport.

What time should my flight depart on the last day?

If you take the ferry transfer to Cebu on your last morning, we advise only booking flights that depart from Cebu airport after 3pm, to account for travel and check-in time.

If you decide to fly from Bohol airport, the journey from your hotel is 10 minutes by taxi.

Check-out time from the hotel is 12pm. If you would like to extend your stay by a day or two, please get in touch with our team who can help arrange this for you.

Are airport transfers included?

If you arrive on Day 1 of your adventure, or you book pre-tour accommodation with us, your airport arrival transfer will be included. If you book alternative pre-tour accommodation or are arriving by another mode of transport you must arrange your own arrival transfer.

Arrival transfers are private to Flash Pack and will be in groups depending on flight times. Sometimes this means waiting in the airport for a short while until other flights have arrived.

A departure is included from your final hotel to Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) for your international fight home.

If you choose to fly from Bohol airport to Manila, we can offer support with arranging a local taxi.

How much should I budget per day for extras?

2,000 Philippine peso, the equivalent of 30 GBP.

What fitness levels do I need for this trip?

We recommend having a read-through of the itinerary above, and getting in touch if you have specific questions on fitness. Overall, the trip is very relaxed so no real level of fitness is needed. However, there is a good amount of walking and biking (at your own pace).

Will the itinerary change?

Please be aware that the itinerary, activities and hotels are subject to change. These changes can happen with little notice due to availability, poor weather, seasonal changes, or other circumstances beyond our control – but we’ll always do our best to ensure it has little impact on your experience. From time to time, we may also make changes to your itinerary to try out new ideas and keep things fresh and exciting.

Do I need a visa?

You do not need a visa if you’re visiting the Philippines as a tourist from the EU, UK, USA, Australia or Canada. Please check with your local consulate if the country you are travelling from requires a visa.

We recommend that you have six months validity remaining on your passport as a minimum requirement and can show a return ticket.

What are the mandatory entry requirements for the Philippines?

You will need:

Passport with at least six months validity from arrival date in the Philippines
International outbound ticket
All travellers must fill in the eArrival Card

Requirements can change frequently so please check online for updates ahead of your travels.

What are the Covid-19 requirements for visiting the Philippines?

Due to the changeable nature of Covid-19 entry requirements, we strongly advise Flashpackers to consult the travel advice issued by your local consular services well in advance of your departure date. Some countries do still require travellers to comply with pre-arrival testing and/or vaccination requirements. Links to the key consular services can be found on our Safety page.

What other vaccinations and medication will I need?

We recommend checking with your local travel clinic six to eight weeks before your trip to see if any medications or vaccinations are required.

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