Eco Tours in the Philippines

Many consider the island of Palawan to be one of the best international destinations. Its tropical climate and scenic beauty beckon travelers looking for warm weather, sunshine and adventure. El Nido is one of the larger communities in the island chain and a great jumping off point for a week of island hopping. 

You’ll spend your first night in El Nido. Your guide will provide the lay of the land and leave you to explore the area on your own. The island has a strong sustainability and conservation program aimed at protecting marine life and its beaches, with more than 100 of them to explore, and tons of fascinating flora and fauna to see. You can also opt to spend the afternoon snorkeling along the coral reefs just off of El Nido.

The group will take a quick boat ride to Boracay today. It’s a perfect day to kick back and relax on Boracay’s beaches. It’s a popular destination so you won’t be alone on the island. You can explore the area at your leisure stopping at Cagban Beach, White Beach and Bulabog Beach along the way. You’ll be treated to a traditional Filipino dinner before returning to El Nido by boat for the night.

The group will leave the beaches behind for the day, and head inland to Banawe – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll explore the area with your guide and visit the Ifugoa Rice Terraces, also known as the “Stairway to Heaven,”  which are thought to be 2,000 years old, and which are now a protected site within the Philippines. The group will have a free afternoon for a visit to the Banaue Museum, swimming in Tappiya Falls, riding on local wooden bikes, hiking or other adventures in Banaue before ending the evening with a native gong ceremony.

The group will board a small plane this morning to travel from El Nido to Siargao Island. You’ll start your tour of the island with a visit to Magpupunkgko Rock Pools. Low tide creates countless smaller pools in which you can swim or kayak. Next, you’ll stop at Cloud 9 and Pacifico beaches, considered two of the best surfing spots in the world. Relax on the sand and watch the surfers ride the waves. Take a lesson if you feel up to it. 

You’ll spend the rest of the afternoon in Siargao meandering its streets, shopping, and eating in cafes. You might try a bowl at Shaka which serves what westerners know as a smoothie bowl, but with much closer attention to presentation.

Today the group will board a ferry for the trip from Siargao to Mindoro. Be ready for adventure when you arrive because you guide has arranged a pretty remarkable snorkeling and scuba experience for you. This afternoon you’ll board a small boat and head out to swim with majestic whale sharks – the biggest fish in the world.  Whale sharks are gentle giants that don’t pose any risk to swimmers. You’ll spend the night in Mindoro and enjoy an authentic island meal.

This morning you’ll board a small plane to head back to Palawan. The trip will take roughly five hours. Kick back and relax before arrival where you’ll celebrate the week, and spend one last festive night in Palawan at a beachfront bar and restaurant. You’ll dine on local delicacies while dipping your toes in the water.

You’ve had an epic week in the Philippines. You’ve seen gorgeous beaches, majestic animals, gravity-defying rice terraces, and been welcomed by some of the warmest people in the world. It’s time to head home today and your guide will deliver you to the airport to catch your flight. It’s a good bet you’re probably already thinking of returning.