10-Day Itinerary for Nature Lovers in the Philippines

  • Day 1: Mt. Pinatubo
    2 hours 30 minutes (80.7 miles) from Ninoy Aquino International Airport

    Start your adventure by trekking Mt. Pinatubo, a volcano located in Zambales. The 4x4 ride and trek towards the crater lake will give you stunning views of the landscape. The turquoise-colored lake at the end of the trek is a picturesque sight to behold.

  • Day 2: Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park
    1 hour 15 minutes (28.2 miles) from Puerto Princesa City Center

    The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the 7 New Wonders of Nature. This underground river tour takes you to a magical world of rock formations and preserved flora and fauna.

  • Day 3-4: El Nido
    5 hours 51 minutes (136.9 miles) from Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park

    El Nido is known for its sheer limestone cliffs, enchanting lagoons, and crystal clear waters. You have two full days to explore its beautiful natural wonders, island hop, and relax on its pristine beaches.

  • Day 5-6: Siargao Island
    1 hour 15 minutes (32.6 miles) from Surigao Airport to General Luna

    Siargao Island is the ultimate surfer’s paradise with world-renowned surf breaks like Cloud 9. But it’s also a great destination for beach bums and nature lovers with its beautiful scenery, mangrove forests, and turquoise lagoons.

  • Day 7-8: Chocolate Hills
    2 hours 30 minutes (55.9 miles) from Panglao Island

    The Chocolate Hills in Bohol are a group of over 1,000 perfectly cone-shaped hills that turn brown during the dry season, resembling giant chocolate mounds. Take a tour and witness these geological formations up close.

  • Day 9-10: Tubbataha Reef
    1 hour 10 minutes (31.5 miles) from Puerto Princesa Airport

    Tubbataha Reef is a protected marine sanctuary and a UNESCO World Heritage site, located at the heart of the Coral Triangle. It’s a popular spot for diving and snorkeling, where you can witness diverse marine life such as sharks, turtles, and colorful fish.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Mt. Pinatubo Tour (1 day, $100)
  • Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park Tour (1 day, $50)
  • El Nido Island Hopping Tour (2 days, $150)
  • Siargao Island Tour (2 days, $200)
  • Chocolate Hills Tour (2 days, $100)
  • Tubbataha Reef Diving Trip (2 days, $500)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $1,200

Transportation

Transportation in the Philippines may not be as efficient as other countries, but it’s fairly easy and affordable. Domestic flights are the quickest way to travel between major destinations. Bus and ferry rides are cheaper but may take longer. Renting a motorbike is a common way to explore islands like Siargao.

Estimated Transportation Costs: $300

Useful tips

If you have more time, you can add more destinations like Coron Island, Apo Island, and Banaue Rice Terraces. If you have less time, consider skipping Tubbataha Reef or Chocolate Hills. Always check the weather conditions and opening hours of tourist destinations to avoid any inconveniences.

Airports

The Philippines’ main international airport is the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) in Manila. The Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS) and Siargao Airport (IAO) are the most commonly used domestic airports for this itinerary.

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