Philippines Itinerary: The Perfect 4-Week Travel Guide
The minute I left the Philippines, I questioned how long until I could go back. Three weeks island-hopping through a country made up of over 7,000 islands, and I left knowing I had only scratched the surface. From the surf culture of Siargao to the pristine beach of Boracay and the jaw-dropping limestone cliffs of Palawan, the Philippines is so many different trips in one. This 3-week Philippines itinerary is built from the places I actually went, the things that genuinely blew me away, and the lessons I learned along the way. I also added a section on the islands I missed like Cebu, Bohol, and Siquijor because if you have an extra week, those three are for sure worth building into the itinerary.
My Time in the Philippines
The Philippines was the final leg of my Southeast Asia backpacking trip and the sixth country I visited. I had been traveling for two months already, feeling so content with everything I saw in Thailand, Vietnam, and Bali, but also I've been longing to see the crystal blue water of the Philippines for much of my life, so I pushed away the fatigue and beamed with excitement to have almost a full month in this incredible country. Also, I entered the Philippines a bit tired from the food poisoning I received in Indonesia, so my first few days were slow, but that stopped there. My first stop in the Philippines was Siargao, which is known to have the "Siargao Curse" in which people come and never want to leave. I decided to extend my stay in Siargao, convinced it must be a great island if so many people choose to stay longer.
So, the longest I stayed in one place was Siargao. I stayed there for 10 days and I was so grateful that I did because the friends I made there and the memories we have together I forever cherish. I was grateful to have so much time with them, feel as though I was "living on the island" and not just a visitor constantly moving, and to have escaped the rain because the weather there was perfect. From there, I was never alone the rest of my Philippines trip. I learned how to make friends at hostels, on tours, and in town, feeling the warmth of constant company, and it made the last month of my SE Asia trip fly by, but doing so with a full and changed heart.
Philippines at a Glance
Best time to visit: November to May is the dry season. I traveled in August and September during rainy season and Palawan in particular takes a real hit. November to May gives you the best weather across the board. I got a tip from a local to visit Philippines in the 'ber' months, a great and easy way to remember the best time to go.
Recommended trip length: If you can, 3 to 5 weeks is ideal for the Philippines. Islands are spread out and ferry/flight connections take real chunks of your day.
Getting there: Fly into Manila (Ninoy Aquino International Airport, MNL) or directly into Cebu (Mactan-Cebu International Airport, CEB), which is increasingly well-connected from major Asian hubs.
Getting around: Domestic flights (AirAsia, Cebu Pacific) and ferries between islands. I would recommend booking domestic flights about a month in advance in order to get the best price. Last minute flights can be hundreds of dollars compared to less than $100. Also, look ahead for ferries as well, I didn't take any but it's important to check if your route has specific timings. On-island transport is typically tricycles, motorbike taxis, or rented scooters.
Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP), this country is very cash heavy. I regularly went to the ATM to get more cash as card is not as widely accepted. When you get there, take out $200-$500 of PHP to last for your entire trip. You will be surprised how quickly you use up your cash.
Approximate daily budget: $30–$60/day for budget travelers (hostel, local food, activities), $80–$150 mid-range
Visa: U.S. citizens do not need a visa to enter the Philippines for tourist stays of 30 days or less. If you plan to stay longer than 30 days, you can either apply for a 59-day visa beforehand or extend your stay once you arrive.
4-Week Philippines Itinerary
If you have four weeks, this is the routing I would now recommend:
Days 1–7: Siargao: Surf culture, island hopping, cafe scene, North Siargao day trip
Days 7–10: Cebu: Kawasan Falls canyoneering, brief city tour
Days 10–12: Bohol: Chocolate Hills, tarsiers, Panglao beach
Days 12–15: Siquijor: Cambugahay Falls, island circuit
Days 15–19: Boracay: White Beach, rest, sailing, beach days
Days 19–23: El Nido: Boat tour, lagoons, town life
Days 23–26: El Nido to Coron via Boat Expedition: 3 days, 2 nights on the boat
Days 26-28: Coron: Boat tours, snorkling, diving
Day 28-30: Manila: One night before flying home
Week 1: Siargao: Days 1–7
Fly from Manila to Siargao (General Luna is the main town) and budget a week here. Siargao sneaks up on you. My expectations were high from everything I had heard, and it still exceeded them. I am convinced a large part of that was the people I met, but even alone, this island would have been special.
Getting there and settling in: The Siargao airport is tiny and it is one of the most charming arrivals I had the whole trip. Take a transport van into General Luna (about 45 minutes), find your hostel, and eat immediately.
My hostel was Rucksack Inn, however I would recommend Casavia Hostel, Harana Surf Resort, or Hiraya Surf Hostel. You could also hop around hostels, trying new ones, until you find one that you like. It is very common for people to book a nights stay day by day because it's not very likely they fill up, and even if they do, there's so many other great hostels that you can move to.
The vibe in General Luna is relaxed, walkable enough for the main strip, and full of cafes and small restaurants that quickly become your routine.
The Cafe Scene
Siargao has a genuinely excellent cafe culture. Shaka Cafe became our group's default breakfast spot, one of the best vegan-friendly cafes I visited in all of Southeast Asia. The healthy bowls, smoothies, and coffee are legitimately good. Goodies is another one worth knowing for their incredible smoothies. Cafe hopping in Siargao is a fully valid way to spend your first couple of days while you get your bearings.
Cloud 9 and the Surf
Cloud 9 is Siargao's famous surf break and one of the best in Southeast Asia. Even if you are not a surfer, the Cloud 9 boardwalk is a must for watching the waves and the atmosphere. Siargao has a surf school culture if you want to learn, the conditions vary by season, but the North generally gets bigger swells. I rented a board and had a two hour lesson for only $10 in the North. I traveled to Oahu, Hawaii before arriving home in the U.S., and the price for the same service was $150. If there's a place to learn how to surf, may it be the Philippines with the great waves and kindest guides. Another good surf spot near General Luna is Cemetry, you take a boat ride out to the waves, and the spot is way less crowded and better sand conditions than Cloud 9.
Trip North to Pacifico
On one of your days, make the trip up north. We stopped at a beautiful coconut viewpoint on the way that had us pulling over every single time we passed it, it's one of those spots where you genuinely did not want to get back on the bike. We also stopped at Tayangban Cave, a stunning cave you can swim through. I would add Magpupungko Rock Pools to this route, which are natural tidal pools carved into volcanic rock that reveal themselves at low tide, with some incredible cliff jumping potential. Check tide times before you go. We stayed overnight in Pacifico, finding accommodation for around $10/night and it allows you to surf in both the evening you arrive and the morning before you head back down to General Luna. If you'd prefer a more secluded experience, stay up North for a bit longer, you can find some incredible airbnbs that feel like you're staying at a private luxury resort, but really it's only $50/night.
Coconut Viewpoint in Siargao, Philippines Tayangban Cave in Siargao, Philippines Magpupungko Rock Pools in Siargao, Philippines
Island Hopping Tour
The three-island tour from Siargao is essential. We hit Naked Island (literally a sandbar in the middle of the ocean with no vegetation), Dako Island, and Guyam Island. It's a full day tour and a must-do while there if you like exploring other islands and spending a day on the boat cruising, snorkeling, and relaxing at the beach. Book the tour here or through your hostel.
Naked Island in Siargao, Phlippines Dako Island in Siargao, Philippines Guyam Island in Siargao, Philippines
General tips for Siargao
Rent a motorbike or make friends who have one, it is the best way to explore the island and get around seamlessly.
The social scene at hostels is quality; some of the best people I met anywhere in Asia.
Every night, a different hostel/restaurant hosts a "party" until 11pm, and then you head to Siargao Beach Club (SBC) for the afterparty. There are seven different spots, so once you've been there for a week, you will have hit every one. It's a fun time and I would recommend going out at least one of the nights. Make sure to be careful on the bike ride back to your hostel!
Bring cash as many places do not accept cards.
Rainy season from June–October brings better surf but worse conditions for island hopping and seeing the crystal blue water. When I visited end of August, it was the time of year with the calmest waves, so if you are learning, its the perfect time to go, but if you wanted to tear up the waves, you may want to travel at a different time.
Week 2: Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor
Cebu - Days 7–10
Why go: Cebu is the gateway to the Visayas, one of the three primary island groups in the Philippines, and one of the most diverse islands in the Philippines. It offers history, city life, incredible canyoneering, and some of the best diving in the country, all in one place.
Getting there: Fly directly into Mactan-Cebu International Airport, which has strong connections from Manila and many Asian hubs. Cebu is also the ferry hub for reaching Bohol and Siquijor. To get to South Cebu, take the bus or rent a scooter and make the 1.5hr journey there.
Cebu City
Naturally, you will be in Cebu City as all flights come and go here, and it's worth staying for a half-day for its history. Check out Magellan's Cross (planted by Ferdinand Magellan in 1521 upon his arrival in the Philippines), the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño (one of the oldest Catholic churches in the country), and Fort San Pedro (a 16th-century Spanish fortification that gives you a quick lens into the colonial era). The Carbon Market and Colon Street offer the most local version of the city.
South Cebu
Make your way to South Cebu, specifically Moalboal and Badian for canyoneering and the sardine run. The two biggest highlights this island has to offer.
Canyoneering at Kawasan Falls
This full-day activity involves trekking, cliff jumping, sliding down natural rock formations, and swimming through gorgeous blue lagoon pools in the Badian area in South Cebu. The finale is jumping off a 30-foot cliff into the turquoise pools of Kawasan Falls, one of the most adrenaline-junky activities in the entire Philippines. This is the Cebu activity that is completely non-negotiable for adventure travelers.
Moalboal & the Sardine Run
Moalboal is one of the best places in the Philippines for snorkeling and diving, thanks to its vibrant coral reefs, sea turtles, and the world-famous Sardine Run. Just a short swim from shore, you'll find yourself surrounded by millions of shimmering sardines moving in massive bait balls, an unforgettable wildlife experience that feels almost surreal. Beyond the marine life, Moalboal has a laid-back backpacker atmosphere, beautiful sunsets, and easy access to nearby waterfalls such as Kawasan Falls. The Sardine Run can be seen year-round, making it one of the most accessible and affordable marine encounters in the country. Check out this tour that will pick you up from Cebu City so you don't miss out on this incredible experience.
Bohol - Days 10–12
Why go: The Chocolate Hills. That is the biggest attraction to see on your visit. Over 1,200 perfectly cone-shaped hills that turn chocolate brown in the dry season, it is a UNESCO-protected geological monument found nowhere else on Earth. They look like something from a children's storybook and seeing them in person is one of those genuinely surreal moments you do not see coming.
Getting there: Ferry from Cebu City to Tagbilaran Port (approximately 2 hours, multiple departures daily via OceanJet). Alternatively, fly into Bohol-Panglao International Airport, which has expanding connections.
The Philippine Tarsier
This animal is one of the world's smallest primates and is endemic to this island. The Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary near Loboc allows for an up-close encounter with these enormous-eyed creatures in a protected natural habitat, a very different and more ethical experience than other wildlife encounters in Southeast Asia.
The Loboc River Cruise
It takes you along a lush jungle river on a floating bamboo raft while you eat a Filipino lunch. It sounds touristy, and it is, but the river scenery is genuinely beautiful and it is a peaceful, distinctly Filipino experience. To do all three of these in one day, check out this tour.
Panglao Island
Connected to Bohol by bridge, is the beach destination, Alona Beach is the backpacker hub, and the surrounding reef system offers some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Visayas. Balicasag Island, accessible by boat from Panglao, is known for sea turtle encounters and dolphin watching.
Siquijor - Days 12–15
Why go: Siquijor is the island the Philippines does not talk about loudly enough. Known locally as the "Island of Fire" a name that comes from its glowing fireflies and mystical folklore. It is one of the most peaceful, beautiful, and least touristy islands in the Visayas.
Getting there: Ferry from Cebu City or Dumaguete (the nearest city on Negros) — 30 to 40 minutes from Dumaguete, about 3 hours from Cebu City. Siquijor is most often done as part of a Cebu-Bohol-Siquijor triangle route.
Cambugahay Falls
The main draw of Siquijor is Cambugahay Falls, a three-tiered waterfall with turquoise pool-like levels and rope swings that have become one of the most photographed natural attractions in the Philippines. It looks like every Instagram dream: clear turquoise water, lush jungle canopy, multiple levels to jump from. The falls are legitimately as beautiful as they appear in photos, which is saying something.
The Enchanted Balete Tree
Near San Antonio is ancient, enormous, and genuinely atmospheric and at its base is a natural spring-fed fish spa where tiny fish nibble the dead skin from your feet. Strange, relaxing, and somehow unforgettable.
Salagdoong Beach
On the southeast coast is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island with its white sand, clear blue water, and cliff diving platforms that make it a great active beach day.
Siquijor Island Circuit
The island is small enough to circuit by motorbike in a day, hitting the falls, the beach, the Balete tree, and the Lazi Convent (a beautiful 19th-century Spanish colonial church with one of the oldest convents in Asia right next door). Or, follow this guided tour and hit all the major spots.
Week 3: Boracay - Days 15-19
Fly from Siquijor to Boracay (take a ferry from Siquijor to Dumaguete, then catch a flight from Dumaguete–Sibulan Airport to Boracay for the fastest way to Boracay. Book as far in advance to save on flight costs. There are other ferry/bus options that are more cost effective, but I think this route is worth the trade-off of time.
Boracay is the postcard island of the Philippines, White Beach is legitimately one of the most beautiful beaches I have ever seen in my life. The sand is powdery and perfectly white, the water is clear and turquoise, and the sunsets are the kind you want to last forever. I did not do the Cebu, Bohol, and Siquijor segment above because I didn't have enough time, but I came from Siargao and was very much in need of a holiday after that crazy but wonderful stay in Siargao.
White Beach and the Beach Setup
White Beach runs the length of the main strip and is divided into three stations. Station 1 (the north end) is the quietest and most upscale. Station 2 is the most lively and central. Station 3 is budget-friendly and more low-key. I set myself up at a restaurant with beach chairs for the day, the standard move is to order food or a drink and you get beach access with a chair. I would either get a drink or meal, then spend the afternoon with my toes in the sand and a book in my hand, grateful beyond words for being exactly where I was.
The Food Scene
Sunnyside Cafe is a great breakfast spot, I wrote there for three hours on my first day with the champorado and coffee, sweating in the shade but loving every minute of it. Mango shakes are everywhere and should be consumed daily. The stretch along White Beach has dozens of fresh seafood restaurants and tourist-friendly menus; look slightly off the main strip for better prices and more local flavor. There is not a ton of vegan spots in Boracay, so when I found my favorite meals, I would go there repeatedly.
Activities
Boracay offers a ton of activities! From helmet diving for beginners, kitesurfing to island hopping from Boracay, and cliff diving at Ariel's Point. Not to mention sunset sailing on a traditional paraw outrigger is worth every peso. I went on a sunset cruise with my friend as we had the best time, we also got massages after! She also went jetskiing and scuba diving, but I was perfectly content hanging out at the beach with a book and my journal.
Getting Around
The main road (D'Mall area) is the commercial center with restaurants and shops. Tricycles are the main transport. E-bikes have become popular and are a fun way to explore. I would walk everywhere and because the island is so small, it really is doable. The only time I paid for a ride was to and from the airport with my backpack. There were tuk tuks right outside the airport to bring people into town, and I asked my hotel to call me a tuk tuk for the ride back to the airport. Incredibly slick and easy to find transportation on this island.
Tip: Boracay was officially closed for rehabilitation in 2018 and reopened with stricter environmental controls. The beach is cleaner and better managed than it was before. Avoid the off-season (July–August) if possible, the wind shifts and the beach can get rough. the beach is not welly shaded and the sun will scorch your skin, but the sun is what brings out the best color in the water.
Week 4 & 5: Palawan
Fly from Boracay to Puerto Princesa or El Nido (El Nido has a small airport with limited but growing connections, check availability; Puerto Princesa is more reliable and about 5–6 hours from El Nido by van). Plan your last week across El Nido and Coron.
El Nido - Days 19–23
El Nido is otherworldly. The karst limestone cliffs rising out of turquoise lagoons are not something you will be able to photograph your way out of, they have to be seen in person. I arrived with sky-high expectations and still had my breath taken away on the boat tour.
The Boat Tour (Tour A)
This is the main event in El Nido and not optional. I went on Tour A and the stops included the Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, and Secret Lagoon, and includes snorkeling spots and beautiful hidden beaches. The logistics are quintessentially Filipino: we had to wade through shallow water to reach the small boat, which then took us to the main boat. I booked this tour through my hostel, but you can find the tour here as well. The water felt strange at one point, like I was swimming through what turned out to be something soft and stinging (jellyfish in their juvenile form, as best I could tell), which is a fun story to come back from. But the views from the boat were worth every bit of it.
El Nido Town Life
The town has a strip of bars, cafes, and restaurants that make for easy evenings. I found Ver De El Nido, a fully vegan restaurant with incredible menu variety, and basically ate there every day for the rest of my trip. I also spent a lot of time at Grounded Cafe, enjoying the turmeric lattes and caramel rolls alone with the free wifi to help me catch up on work during rainy days. It is more convenient to stay in town, somewhere like Frendz Hostel, but I stayed at Outpost Hostel that had an incredible view of the water and was just a quick tuk tuk ride into town.
Las Cabañas Beach
Las Cabañas Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in El Nido and is widely considered the best place on the island to watch the sunset. The long stretch of golden sand, swaying palm trees, and views of the surrounding limestone islands make it the perfect place to relax after a day of island hopping. There is a small entrance fee to access the beach, and arriving an hour or two before sunset will give you the best experience.
El Nido Via Ferrata Canopy Walk
The Via Ferrata Canopy Walk is an adventurous climb up the limestone cliffs overlooking El Nido Town, offering some of the most spectacular panoramic views in Palawan. Using steel cables, bridges, and safety harnesses, you'll make your way to a viewpoint where you can see Bacuit Bay's turquoise waters and dramatic karst islands stretching into the distance. It's a great alternative to the steep Taraw Cliff hike and can be completed in about 30–45 minutes.
El Nido Zipline – Palawan Zipline Adventure
For a unique perspective of El Nido's coastline, take the famous zipline that soars above the ocean between Las Cabañas Beach and a nearby island. The ride offers incredible aerial views of the crystal-clear water, limestone cliffs, and tropical beaches below, making it one of the most memorable adrenaline activities in town. Visit around sunset for especially stunning views and photos.
Nacpan Beach
Located about 30–45 minutes from El Nido Town, Nacpan Beach is a four-kilometer stretch of soft golden sand that feels far less crowded than many of the area's other beaches. It's the perfect place to spend a relaxing day swimming, sunbathing, enjoying beachfront restaurants, or simply taking in the scenery. Renting a scooter is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to visit, and the journey itself offers beautiful views of rural Palawan.
The Palawan 3-Day Boat Expedition: El Nido to Coron - Days 23-26
If you have three days to spare between El Nido and Coron, do this 3-day 2-night liveaboard boat expedition rather than the standard ferry. This is one of the most genuinely spectacular things I did in the Philippines and I almost talked myself out of it due to the logistics. Once your there, shop around the different expedition companies and find the one that best suits your timing and travel preference.
The expedition departs from El Nido and makes its way north toward Coron, cruising during the day, stopping at deserted beaches, snorkeling spots, hidden lagoons, and remote islands along the way and staying on island in huts on islands each night. I traveled with a group from Israel, a Spanish couple, and shared the experience of living together for three days, eating meals together on deck, swimming in the blue ocean, or spending the evening playing games or singing karaoke together that created a bond that was instant and genuine.
Practical notes: pack light, keep your electronics in a waterproof bag (things get wet), and let go of any expectations about comfort. The boat has basic sleeping quarters and meals are included. The views and the freedom more than compensate for everything else. If you are coming from Coron to El Nido, the expedition goes both ways and you can just as easily find a tour going to El Nido.
The group that I did the Palawan boat expedition with The huts we slept in each night on the Palawan Boat Expedition The food that was served to us for meals on the boat for the Palawan Boat Expedition One of the stops on The Palawan Boat Expedition One of the stops on The Palawan Boat Expedition One of the stops on The Palawan Boat Expedition One of the stops on The Palawan Boat Expedition One of the stops on The Palawan Boat Expedition One of the stops on The Palawan Boat Expedition
Coron - Days 26–28
Coron is a different energy than El Nido, its smaller, slightly more run-down in town, but the surrounding nature is absolutely spectacular. The main draw is the Super Ultimate Boat Tour of Coron, which I booked specifically for this island through my hostel and would recommend without hesitation.
Coron Boat Tour
The highlights include Kayangan Lake, considered one of the cleanest lakes in Asia, reached by climbing a viewpoint hill before descending to the crystal-clear lake to swim. The lineup for the viewpoint photo is worth it (we bonded with a group from Dubai while waiting). Twin Lagoon, Skeleton Wreck for snorkeling, Barracuda Lake, the tour covers an impressive range in one day. The people I met on this tour, including a British fashion designer and an Australian man working at Deloitte, turned what could have been a solo day into one of my favorite days of the trip.
Manila - Day 28-30
I had one night in Manila before flying home and used it as a final reflection point more than anything else. Manila is chaotic and enormous, it is not a city you can meaningfully see in 12 hours. But the Intramuros historic walled city is worth a few hours if you have time, and the food scene has excellent options. I grabbed my last smoothie bowl at the Manila Shaka location, watched the Filipino landscape one more time from the shuttle window, and tried to hold onto every bit of what the past weeks had given me.
Practical Travel Tips for the Philippines
What to Pack: Read my Southeast Asia Packing Guide blog post for what to bring and the actual products I bought and used on my trip throughout SE Asia and the Philippines.
Inter-island transport: Domestic flights are the way to move between Siargao, Boracay, and Palawan. Book in advance as seats on small routes fill up and prices spike. AirAsia and Cebu Pacific are the main carriers. Ferries work for the Visayas triangle (Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor) and for the El Nido to Coron route within Palawan.
Cash: You can bring cash with you or pull it out of an ATM upon arrival. Many islands and small restaurants are cash only. ATMs exist in towns but are unreliable on smaller islands. I ran into the issue that they would be broken or out of cash! Stock up, and I mean stock up, in Manila or Cebu before heading to remote places.
Vegan and plant-based eating: The Philippines is more challenging for strict plant-based eating than Bali or Vietnam, but workable. Look for:
Cafes in tourist towns (Siargao and El Nido in particular have excellent options)
Fully vegan restaurants like Ver De El Nido in Palawan
Fruit and smoothie bowls are everywhere and the fresh tropical fruit alone (mangos & coconuts) is reason to be in the Philippines
Palitaw and rice-based snacks are often naturally vegan
The weather: Rainy season during the months of June–October is real. I experienced it firsthand and it disrupted my El Nido plans significantly. If you travel during this period, build in flexibility, prioritize your boat tours for the first day of good weather, and have indoor backup plans. November through May is the safe window.
Motorbike rentals: Essential on Siargao and Siquijor, and useful on Bohol. You generally do not need an international license in practice, but your own travel insurance will care so check your policy.
Reef-safe sunscreen: Required in many marine parks and protected areas. Stock up before you arrive as it is limited and expensive on remote islands.
Common mistakes to avoid:
Planning too tight a schedule: ferry delays and weather will disrupt it
Skipping the liveaboard El Nido to Coron expedition if you have the days
Missing El Nido's boat tours because of weather fear: go on the clearest days your there, rain often holds off in the mornings
Staying only in El Nido and skipping Coron: Coron is genuinely different and worth the extra travel. If you love to scuba dive, extend the Coron leg as Coron is one of the best dive spots in the world
Not allowing enough time on Siargao: If you want to experience what it feels like to live on an island, stay as long as you can
Where to Stay in the Philippines
Siargao: Casavia Hostel in General Luna is a great base, social, well-located, and the kind of place where you show up alone and leave with a friend group. For a mid-range stay, look at guesthouses and boutique hotels along the main strip.
Boracay: For budget, Station 3 is your area. For mid-range, Station 2 puts you in the center of the action. For luxury, Station 1 is quieter with beautiful beach frontage. Nigi Nigi Too and Astoria Boracay are well-reviewed mid-range options.
El Nido: The hostel scene is excellent, Frendz Hostel and Outpost Hostel have great social atmospheres. For a bit more comfort, the mid-range guesthouses and small resorts within walking distance of the beach are reasonably priced.
Coron: Town-based hostels like Hop Hostel are your best bet for meeting people and accessing the boat tours easily.
Where to Eat in the Philippines (Vegan-Friendly Highlights)
Shaka Cafe, Siargao: The best plant-based breakfast on the island, incredible smoothie bowls and coffee
Goodies, Siargao: Incredible smoothies, the one I ordered twice in the same week
Sunnyside Cafe, Boracay: A solid breakfast spot with a view and make sure to try the Champorado, its sweet and insanely addictive
Nonie's Cafe, Boracay: Order the vegan sisig, no questions asked.
Ver De El Nido, El Nido: A fully vegan restaurant with a remarkable menu; turmeric lattes and caramel rolls are the move
Dayo Cafe, Coron: Known for their Biscoff souffle pancakes but I ordered a delicious smoothie bowl!
Is the Philippines Worth It?
Unequivocally, yes. The Philippines is not the easiest destination logistically as island hopping requires planning, flights and ferries cost time and money, and the weather is unpredictable. But everything it asks of you in effort, it returns tenfold in beauty, warmth, and the kind of memories that stay with you for years. The people I met, the islands I saw, the sunsets I watched from boats and beaches, the Philippines gave me some of the best moments of my entire trip. I flew out of Manila knowing I had only seen a fraction of what this country has to offer, and feeling the pull to go back before I even landed. You will never regret a trip to the Philippines.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do you need in the Philippines? Three weeks is the realistic minimum to cover the main highlights: Siargao, Boracay, and Palawan. Four weeks lets you add the Visayas (Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor) without rushing anything. The islands are spread out, transport takes time, and you will want to slow down once you get there.
What is the best island to visit in the Philippines? It depends on what you are after. For surf culture and social vibes: Siargao. For the most beautiful beach: Boracay. For dramatic natural scenery and boat adventures: El Nido and Palawan. For unique geological wonders and wildlife: Bohol. For a peaceful, uncrowded gem: Siquijor.
When is the best time to visit the Philippines? November to May is the dry season and the best window for travel across most of the country. December to February is peak season, busier, and slightly pricier but excellent weather. March to May offers a good balance of good weather and thinner crowds. Avoid June to October (rainy season) for Palawan especially.
Is the Philippines safe for solo travel? Yes, it is one of the friendliest solo travel destinations in Southeast Asia. The hostel and backpacker communities are warm and welcoming, and people genuinely go out of their way to help. Standard travel precautions apply (watch your belongings in cities, do not display valuables on boats), but solo travel here feels safe and joyful.
Do I need to speak Filipino (Tagalog) to travel the Philippines? No. English is widely spoken throughout the Philippines, including in small towns and on remote islands. It is one of the most English-friendly destinations in all of Asia.
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