Philippines

9-Day Philippines Itinerary: Cebu, Moalboal, El Nido, and Coron

This 9-day adventure takes you through some of the Philippines' most stunning destinations, from the underwater wonders of Moalboal to the breathtaking islands of El Nido and Coron. You’ll experience vibrant marine life, serene beaches, and dramatic landscapes.

Days 1-3: Cebu City and Moalboal

Start your journey by arriving in Cebu City and exploring the city’s historic and cultural sites like Magellan’s Cross, Basilica del Santo Niño, and Fort San Pedro. Sample Cebu’s famous lechon at a local restaurant and spend the evening enjoying the nightlife at IT Park.

Day 2, head to Moalboal (3-hour drive from Cebu City). Upon arrival, jump into the water at Panagsama Beach to witness the famous Sardine Run—a magical spectacle of millions of sardines swimming close to the shore. End the day with a relaxing dinner on the beach.

Day 3 is dedicated to more underwater adventures—snorkel or dive at Pescador Island and Turtle Point for encounters with colorful coral reefs and sea turtles. Later, unwind at the picturesque White Beach (Basdaku Beach). Wrap up the day with a casual meal at Ven’z Kitchen.

Days 4-5: Kawasan Falls and Travel to El Nido, Palawan

Day 4, experience the thrill of canyoneering at Kawasan Falls, a short ride from Moalboal. You’ll trek through the jungle, slide down waterfalls, and jump into deep blue pools. After this exciting adventure, head back to Cebu City to prepare for your flight.

Day 5, fly from Cebu to Puerto Princesa, Palawan, and take the scenic 5-6 hour drive to El Nido. Settle into your hotel and unwind at a beachfront restaurant, enjoying the laid-back island vibe.

Days 6-7: Island Hopping in El Nido

Day 6 is all about island-hopping, one of the highlights of El Nido. Choose between Tour A (Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Seven Commandos Beach) or Tour C (Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, and Matinloc Shrine). You’ll kayak through emerald lagoons, snorkel in vibrant coral gardens, and relax on pristine beaches. Enjoy a freshly prepared lunch on one of the islands and take in the stunning surroundings.

Day 7, get ready for more exploration with a visit to the iconic Nacpan Beach, located about 45 minutes from El Nido town. This long stretch of white sand is perfect for a relaxing day by the water, with swaying palm trees and crystal-clear waters. Later, head to Lio Beach, a quieter, eco-friendly beach community where you can relax at beachfront cafes and browse local shops.

Day 8: Coron Day Trip

For Day 8, take a day trip to Coron, a nearby island known for its limestone cliffs, stunning lagoons, and world-class wreck diving sites. You can catch a fast ferry from El Nido to Coron in the morning (around 3.5 to 4 hours). Once you arrive, explore some of Coron's highlights:

• Kayangan Lake: Often called the cleanest lake in the Philippines, it offers crystal-clear waters surrounded by towering limestone cliffs.
• Twin Lagoon: Famous for its dramatic rock formations and breathtaking views, ideal for swimming and kayaking.
• Skeleton Wreck: A popular snorkeling spot with the remains of a sunken Japanese ship from World War II.

If time allows, snorkel at Siete Pecados, known for its stunning coral gardens and diverse marine life. After a day of exploring, take the ferry back to El Nido in the late afternoon.

Day 9: Departure from El Nido

On your final day, enjoy a relaxed morning at Las Cabanas Beach or stroll through El Nido Town for some last-minute shopping. Depending on your flight schedule, you can fly out directly from El Nido Airport to Manila or Cebu for your international flight home, or return to Puerto Princesa for a connecting flight.

Final Thoughts

This 9-day itinerary offers the best of the Philippines, blending history, underwater adventures, and island-hopping bliss. From swimming with sardines in Moalboal to kayaking through El Nido’s lagoons and exploring Coron's pristine lakes, each day is packed with unforgettable experiences. Safe travels, and enjoy your journey through this tropical paradise!

Best Time to Visit the Philippines

The Philippines has a tropical climate, which means warm weather throughout the year. However, the country experiences distinct dry and wet seasons that can impact your travel plans.

• Dry Season (November to April): This is considered the best time to visit the Philippines. The weather is sunny, the skies are clear, and rainfall is minimal, making it perfect for outdoor activities like island-hopping, beach trips, and diving. The months of December to February are particularly pleasant, with cooler temperatures and less humidity. This is also peak season for tourists, especially around Christmas and Easter, so it’s a good idea to book accommodations and flights well in advance.
  • Highlights: Enjoy the famous Sinulog Festival in Cebu (January), visit the pristine beaches of Palawan and Boracay, or explore the cultural heritage of Vigan and Banaue Rice Terraces.
• Wet Season (May to October): The wet season brings higher humidity and frequent rain showers, particularly between June and September. While the rain can sometimes be heavy, especially during typhoon season, it typically doesn’t last all day. This season also has its advantages, including fewer tourists, lower prices, and lush green landscapes.
  • Highlights: For surfers, the wet season is ideal for catching waves in Siargao. The months of July to September are great for whale shark watching in Donsol or Oslob. If you don’t mind occasional rain, you can also enjoy the beauty of the Cordillera Mountains in Sagada and Baguio.

When to Avoid Visiting

• Typhoon Season (June to September): The Philippines is located in the Pacific Ring of Fire, and typhoons are most common between June and September. While not all areas of the country are affected, it’s important to monitor weather conditions if you’re traveling during this period. Some outdoor activities and island tours may be canceled due to weather disruptions.

How to Get to the Philippines

Traveling to the Philippines is relatively straightforward, especially for international tourists. Here’s how you can get there:

• By Air: The easiest way to reach the Philippines is by flying. The country’s main international gateways are Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) in Manila, Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) in Cebu, and Clark International Airport (CRK) near Angeles City.
  • Manila (MNL): Manila, the capital city, is the primary hub for international flights. It’s served by major airlines such as Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, AirAsia, and various international carriers. Manila is a convenient starting point for exploring Luzon and nearby islands.
  • Cebu (CEB): Cebu is the second busiest airport in the Philippines and is ideal for travelers who want to explore the Visayas region, including Moalboal, Oslob, and Bohol.
  • Clark (CRK): Clark is an alternative airport located north of Manila, offering both domestic and international flights. It’s a great option if you want to avoid the busy Manila airport and explore northern Luzon.
• Flight Connections: Most international travelers will find direct flights from major cities like Tokyo, Hong Kong, Singapore, Seoul, Los Angeles, Dubai, and Sydney. If your city doesn’t have direct flights to the Philippines, connecting flights through regional hubs like Singapore, Bangkok, or Hong Kong are common.
• Domestic Travel: Once you’ve arrived in the Philippines, domestic flights are the most convenient way to travel between islands. Airlines like Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia offer frequent flights to popular destinations like Palawan, Boracay, and Davao.
• Ferries: For inter-island travel, especially between Visayas islands, ferries and boats are common. Fast ferries like OceanJet and 2GO Travel offer comfortable trips between islands such as Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor, and more.

Safety Tips for Travelers to the Philippines

The Philippines is generally a safe and welcoming country for tourists, but like any travel destination, it’s important to be cautious and well-prepared. Here are some key safety tips:

1. Be Aware of Typhoons: If you’re traveling during the wet season, keep an eye on weather updates, particularly for typhoons. Download a reliable weather app and sign up for local alerts. Some areas may experience flooding or transportation disruptions, so it’s wise to have flexible travel plans.
2. Use Licensed Transportation: Whether you’re taking taxis, tricycles, or ride-sharing services like Grab, always use licensed and official vehicles. Avoid accepting rides from unauthorized individuals at airports or bus stations. Make sure the meter is running in taxis, or agree on a fare in advance.
3. Stay Vigilant in Big Cities: Cities like Manila and Cebu are safe, but petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas like markets, bus terminals, or public transportation. Keep your belongings secure, and avoid wearing expensive jewelry or flashing large amounts of cash.
4. Be Mindful of Travel Advisories: Some areas in the Philippines, particularly in the southern regions like Mindanao, are subject to travel advisories due to security concerns. It’s best to check with your country’s travel advisory websites before planning a trip to these areas.
5. Respect Local Customs and Etiquette: Filipinos are known for their hospitality, but it’s important to respect local customs. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or rural areas. If you’re unsure about something, don’t hesitate to ask the locals; they’re usually very helpful.
6. Health and Medical Precautions: Make sure your routine vaccinations are up to date before traveling. In some rural areas, mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever can be a concern, so pack insect repellent and wear protective clothing if needed. If you’re visiting remote islands, it's a good idea to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation, just in case.
7. Stay Hydrated and Be Sun Safe: The Philippines can get very hot, especially during the dry season. Always carry a bottle of water, wear sunscreen, and protect yourself from the sun with hats or sunglasses.
8. Emergency Numbers: In case of an emergency, you can contact the Philippine National Police by dialing 117 or 911 (the national emergency hotline). Keep your hotel or accommodation’s contact information handy, as well as any embassy or consulate details for your country.