Philippines consists of a group of 7,641 islands which has exotic beaches, expansive forests, and abundance of volcanoes. This country is blessed with intense tropical beauty and it should come as no surprise that many visitors spend most of their time here on and around the beach.
What Is It?
When I went to Philippines, I had no specific plan or the list of places to go. I had no idea about this boat Expedition until I arrived in Palawan. I came across this amazing tour from El Nido to Coron [and vice versa] that everyone I met was talking about. Even though it was way out of my budget, I decided to go for it and let the money be a problem of the future :P
All I can say now is - it has been most special experience of my life, worth every penny!! It should be on your Philippines bucket list too.
A Bit More -
These expeditions are a great mix of action, adventure and relaxation. Its a sociable experience with a diverse group of strangers from all over the world on one of the best journeys in South East Asia. There are different packages available depends on the days and budget. The 3 days, 5 days and 6 days expeditions from El Nido to Coron [vice versa] gives you a taste of the remote islands while connecting El Nido and Coron before arriving in your destination port on the last day before 5pm. This perfect amalgam of activities packed tour starts with a Motor Bangka boat with a crew of 5-10 locals to guide you throughout the expedition.
Inclusions -
- Unlimited food and snacks (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Evening snacks)
- Unlimited Beverages (Water, Coffee, Tea, Cold drinks, Rum)
- Travel with Banka Boat
- Stay in the tents during night
- Kayaks, Snorkeling Kits and towels
- Activities like Cliff jumping, and Bonfire, Karaoke, volleyball at the basecamp
- Raw nature and island life
Who can go?
There can be up to 15-25 guests and 10 local crew onboard.
Within this large group, with a wide mix of ages, nationalities, and backgrounds make for an interesting, diverse, and vibrant atmosphere on-board and in the basecamps. The minimum age for joiners of this experience is 14 unless by prior agreement with parents/ official guardians. However, there is no upper age limit.
All guests should be comfortable in the water as swimming is a big part of the experience.
Experience
This expedition could be a life changing experience where you explore the remote islands where there's only you expect few locals from island. You get to see the Philippines which you have always seen on the pictures with turquoise water, blue lagoons, white sand beaches and palm trees. The day begin with freshly made breakfast, followed by swimming & snorkeling at different spots throughout the day. You get to see vibrant and beautiful corals, swim with different fishes and turtles.
The chef on the crew takes care of your food choices and serves authentic filipino meal. At the end of the tour you will return with new friends from all around the world and memories for lifetime!
Booking
There are so many agencies in Coron and El Nido with you can book this expedition. You can contact to local hotels or hostels to reach at these operators or book online. The main operators are - Buhay isla, Tao Expedition, El Nido Paradise, Keelooma.
Time to Visit
There are two main seasons in the Philippines -
1. ‘Amihan’ (Northeastern Winds) bring the dry season from October to May. This is the high season.
2. ‘Habagat’ (Southwestern Winds) bring the rainy season from June to September. Expect some rainy days and trip reschedules if you are travelling during Habagat months.
Packing List
- Clothes for the day (swimwear, shorts, t-shirts and tank tops) and night (light trousers and long sleeves to minimise insect bites)
- Sun protection (sunblock, hats, sunglasses)
- Wash kit (soap, shampoo, toothbrush and toothpaste)
- Bath towels
- Reusable water bottle (no plastic bottles allowed on board – if you don’t want to invest then ask for an empty rum bottle)
- Sandals/Flip flops and Reef shoes (you might need trek shoes in some parts too)
- Flashlights/headlamps for getting around in the dark
- Rash guard to guard against rashes, the sun, and jellyfish stings
- Other small things you may want or need: fins, dry bag, power bank, camera (with waterproof cover), a book, a journal, an open mind, a good attitude..
It is indeed a special experience for like-minded travelers. It doesn't mean people who think the same things, but think the same way. It is for the adventurous travelers who want to disconnect from the noise of the modern world, reconnect with nature, and get inspired by new perspectives.
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