Philippines Shoestring Budget Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Exploring Manila
    2 hours from Ninoy Aquino International Airport

    Colonial architecture, food markets, museums

  2. Day 2: Witnessing the Beauty of Taal Lake
    1.5 hours from Manila

    Volcano, heritage town, scenic lake views

  3. Day 3: Swimming with Turtles in Apo Island
    1 hour from Cebu City by flight and ferry

    Beach, snorkelling, sea turtles

  4. Day 4: Cliff Jumping in Kawasan Falls
    1 hour from Apo Island by ferry and bus

    Waterfalls, swimming, adventure

  5. Day 5: Exploring the Chocolate Hills
    4 hours from Kawasan Falls by bus and ferry

    Natural wonder, landscape, hiking

  6. Day 6: Whale Watching in Oslob
    3 hours from the Chocolate Hills by bus

    Whale sharks, snorkelling, serene beach

  7. Day 7: Island Hopping in El Nido
    2 hours from Mactan-Cebu International Airport by flight

    Beaches, lagoons, coral reefs

  8. Day 8: Biking in Coron Island
    5 hours from El Nido by ferry and bus

    Island landscape, bike trails, kayaking

  9. Day 9: Relaxing in Boracay
    6 hours from Coron Island by flight, ferry, and bus

    White sand beaches, nightlife, water sports

  10. Day 10: Trekking to the Rice Terraces of Batad
    3 hours from Boracay by flight and bus

    Mountain views, rice terraces, hiking

  11. Day 11: Surfing in Siargao Island
    10 hours from Batad by bus and ferry

    Surfing, beaches, island vibes

  12. Day 12: Chasing Waterfalls in Camiguin Island
    5 hours from Siargao Island by ferry and bus

    Waterfalls, hiking, volcanic island

  13. Day 13: Discovering the Underground River in Palawan
    4 hours from Camiguin Island by ferry and bus

    Subterranean river, cave, nature

  14. Day 14: Escaping in Malapascua Island
    5 hours from Palawan by flight and ferry

    Diving, beaches, tranquil island

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Eating street food in Manila (1 hour, £1)
  • Boat rental in Kawasan Falls (2 hours, £10)
  • El Nido Island hopping tour (8 hours, £15)
  • Surfing lessons in Siargao Island (2 hours, £15)
  • Diving in Malapascua Island (4 hours, £50)
  • Total Estimated Costs: £300

Useful tips

If you have more time, consider visiting Sagada to see the hanging coffins, or Historical City of Vigan for more colonial architecture. For a shorter trip, you can skip some of the islands or plan your itinerary around a specific region. Make sure to check the weather forecast for each location and bring appropriate clothes and gear. Don't forget to practise sustainable tourism by respecting the environment and local customs.

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