THE
Philippines
trip
For the love of
ISLAND HOPPING​
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​FRESH COCONUTS
LUSH JUNGLES
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​SNORKELING
CHICKEN ADOBO
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LECHON​
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WHITE SAND BEACHES
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EXTREME CANYONING​
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STREET VENDORS
The Philippines
WHAT TO EXPECT
The Philippines is home to over 7,000 islands—and we’ve packed the best of them into eight epic days. Designed for solo travelers in their 20s and 30s, this small-group trip strikes the perfect balance between high-energy adventures and laid-back island vibes.
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We kick things off in Manila, where you'll shake off the jet lag with a historical tour before diving straight into the action in Cebu. There, you’ll snorkel the world-famous Moalboal Sardine Run and go canyoning, tackling natural rock slides, cliff jumps, and jungle-lined swimming holes straight out of a dream.
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For the second half of the trip, we’ll head to Siargao, where you’ll surf in what’s arguably the best spot in the Philippines (some might even say the world) and paddleboard through serene mangroves.
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This trip is a perfect mix of bucket-list moments and laid-back hidden gems. Ready to dive in?
2025 dATEs
​​Jul 5 - 12, 2025​
Discount already applied at checkout
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Aug 9 - 16, 2025
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Sep 6 - 13, 2025​
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8 days/7 nights
starting at $3,699 USD​​​​
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​​​​​​​Limited single room upgrades starting from $999 are available and can be added during booking, subject to availability.
Payment can be broken down into a $500 deposit + 3 additional installments.
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Included
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7 nights of accommodations in shared rooms: 1 night in Manila, 2 nights in Cebu, and 4 nights in Siargao
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Option to upgrade to a private room (limited availability)
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14 meals: 7 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 3 dinners
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All transportation during the trip, including flights from Manila to Cebu and Cebu to Siargao
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Historical site tour in Intramuros, Manila
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Ziplining through the jungle
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Extreme canyoning excursion in Cebu
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Lunch overlooking the waterfalls of Kawasan Falls
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Island-hopping boat day with boodle lunch
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Snorkeling the sardine run (google it!)
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Stand-up paddle boarding through mangroves
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Surfing lesson at one of the best breaks in the world
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Organic, permaculture farm visit with traditional basket weaving class
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Coastal hike
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FTLO trip leader
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*Activities are weather-dependent on all Philippines tours. In the event an activity cannot run, a suitable alternative will be arranged.
not included
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Arrival flight to Manila & departure flight from Siargao
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Mandatory trip insurance
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Meals not mentioned (budget between $175 and $250)
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Incidental expenses
Day 1 - Manila
THE CAPITAL
Welcome to Manila, the vibrant capital where your Philippines adventure begins! Whether this is your first trip to Asia or your tenth, stepping off the plane into the warm tropical air feels like the start of something special. And the best part? You’re not doing it alone. From the moment you meet your group, you’ll have a built-in crew of fellow travelers—all here for the same reason: to explore, connect, and create unforgettable memories together.
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After checking in at the hotel, we’ll dive straight into Manila’s rich history with a walking tour of Intramuros, the city’s storied walled district. This is your first glimpse into the country’s fascinating past, with stops at Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral, and the UNESCO-listed San Agustin Church—a perfect introduction to the Philippines’ cultural heritage.
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Filipinos are known for their hospitality, and tonight, you’ll experience it firsthand at our welcome dinner. Expect a table full of travelers swapping stories, clinking glasses, and toasting to the eight incredible days ahead.
arrive
Day 2 - Manila & Cebu
DIVE IN
Today, we leave the buzz of Manila and head to Cebu, the oldest city in the Philippines, where vibrant island life meets centuries of history.
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By now, we’re sure you’re feeling hungry from the journey, and there’s no better way to dive into the island’s flavors than with a traditional lechon lunch. For those unfamiliar, lechon is a roasted pig, served crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making it a Filipino delicacy you’ll want to savor.
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After lunch, we’ll check into our hotel then head to Moalboal for an unforgettable adventure. Here, you’ll experience the world-famous Sardine Run, where millions of shimmering sardines swirl around you as you snorkel through crystal-clear waters. This is one of the most breathtaking underwater experiences you’ll ever have, and you and the crew will be right in the heart of it. Then, it’s time for dinner, where we’ll share local dishes and our favorite moments of the day.
INDULGE
Day 3 - Cebu
CEBU-YAH!
This morning, we’re heading to Kawasan Falls in Badian for an epic canyoneering trek, nestled in a breathtaking, multi-layered waterfall system deep in the jungle.
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As a group, we’ll zipline into the canyon, conquer natural rock slides, leap into crystal-clear pools, and feel the rush of the rapids beneath us. From thrilling jumps to hilarious splashes, we’ll be laughing and cheering each other on every step of the way. Afterward, we’ll take a break and enjoy a delicious lunch right at the falls, soaking in the surroundings before heading back to Cebu.
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The afternoon and evening are free to enjoy however you please. So on the ride back, feel free to tap our local trip leader for insider recommendations on local gems or the perfect dinner spot.
PLUNGE
Day 4 - Cebu & Siargao
SOON IN SIARGAO
We’ll say goodbye to Cebu and make our way to Siargao, the surfing capital of the Philippines—some might even say the world. Often considered the country’s most beautiful island, Siargao has a laid-back charm that’s impossible to resist.
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After arriving in the late afternoon, you’ll have time to settle in, soak up the stunning scenes, and maybe even grab a cocktail (or two) before the evening kicks off.
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Tonight, we’re diving straight into island life, Siargao-style. While the island welcomes around 50,000 international visitors a year, it’s home to just 150,000 locals, creating a tight-knit community where everyone knows where to be. Each week, one bar is chosen as the go-to gathering spot, bringing together locals, expats, and travelers alike. After dinner, we’ll join the fun.
explore
Day 5 - Siargao
SURF & TURF
We’re starting the day with a surf lesson at one of the Philippines’ most iconic spots. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned surfer, our expert instructor will help you navigate these world-class breaks. And if surfing isn’t your thing, no worries—you’ll have plenty of time to relax and take in the island’s stunning scenery.
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Next, we’ll visit a sustainable farm, where Siargao’s dedicated farmers will introduce us to the art of permaculture. Through hands-on demonstrations, you’ll learn their time-honored techniques before diving into basket-weaving —an ancient craft passed down for generations.
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By the end of the day, you’ll leave with more than just a woven keepsake—you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for local traditions, sustainable living, and the incredible people shaping the island’s future. Expect to get your hands dirty, share plenty of laughs, and some Filipino family gained along the way.
Day 6 - Siargao
ISLAND-HOPPING
With 7,641 islands to choose from, the Philippines is a playground of hidden beaches, vibrant reefs, and postcard-perfect sandbars. Today, we’re setting sail to explore three of its best-kept secrets—exclusive slices of paradise that most travelers never get to see.
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Aboard a traditional banca boat, we’ll cruise through crystal-clear waters, stopping at untouched coves, remote sandbars, and serene lagoons. Our first stop is a private island where we’ll take a quick hike before diving into a boodle fight—a hands-on, family-style feast laid out on banana leaves (don’t worry, no actual fighting involved). After lunch, you’ll have time to snorkel among colorful marine life before we hop to our next island escape.
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By day's end, you’ll have sun-soaked, salt-kissed, and fully immersed yourself in island life. After a day in paradise, a peaceful night’s rest has never felt so good.
Day 7 - Siargao
WHAT’S... SUP!
It’s our last full day in Siargao, and we’re going out with a bang! We’ll kick things off with an epic group stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) adventure through the tranquil mangroves, where the calm waters and lush surroundings will make you feel like you’ve stepped into paradise. It’s the perfect grand finale, letting you soak in the island’s natural beauty one last time.
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Since tonight might be a big one, we’re keeping the afternoon low-key at one of Siargao’s stunning beaches. Grab a buko—a fresh young coconut and the ultimate tropical refreshment—then sit back, relax, and take it all in.
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As the sun begins to set, we’ll gather for a farewell dinner at one of Siargao’s most sought-after waterfront restaurants. Over fresh seafood and island-inspired dishes, we’ll raise a glass to new friendships and unforgettable memories.
BOOK!
Day 8 - Siargao
UNTIL NEXT TIME
As your incredible trip in the Philippines comes to a close, it’s time for a few goodbyes to your travel mates and trip leader—though we’re sure this won’t be the last adventure you’ll share together.
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If you're heading back home, safe travels! But if you’re looking to extend your time, you're already in Southeast Asia, so why not make the most of it?
Thailand is just a short flight away, offering direct connections to Bangkok, one of Southeast Asia’s busiest air hubs, where you can dive into vibrant culture, bustling markets, and world-renowned cuisine. Alternatively, hop on a quick flight to Vietnam, where you can explore the lively streets of Hoi An or the historic charm of Hanoi —both perfect gateways to more of Southeast Asia. (And if you want to keep the adventure going with us, we offer back-to-back trip discounts!)​
FAST FACTS
good to know
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​Dietary Restrictions: While the Philippines offers a rich variety of delicious food, gluten-free, vegan, and kosher options can be a bit challenging in some areas. We’ll do our absolute best to accommodate any restrictions, but please keep in mind that options may be limited at times.
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Language: The Philippines is home to over 180 languages! However, Filipinos are typically fluent in both Filipino (based on Tagalog) and English.
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Currency: The official currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP). While credit cards are accepted at most tourist spots, we recommend withdrawing cash at the airport.
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Weather: The Philippines has a tropical climate, meaning warm temperatures year-round, but conditions can vary depending on the region.
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Infrastructure: While the Philippines is an incredible place to explore, some areas may have limited infrastructure. In remote destinations, facilities might be more basic.
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Mobility: Some of our activities require a certain level of physical fitness, such as trekking, water sports, and outdoor adventures. If you have concerns, please reach out to us before booking.
Trip notes
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While we can’t guarantee private rooms, we recommend booking your trip early if you prefer one, as they tend to fill up quickly.
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All activities are weather dependent; in the unlikely event that we are unable to run an activity, we will have a suitable alternative in place.
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More information regarding visa requirements and travel restrictions can be found here.
flight information
Fly into Manila (MNL)
You’ll need to arrive at Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) by 11am on day 1.
Fly out of Sayak Airport (IAO)
If you are flying home, you should depart any time from Sayak Airport (IAO) on your final day.
LEARN MORE
Interested in learning more about our Philippines trip?
Have a question? We're here to help! Whether you're curious about accommodations, accessibility, group vibe, or dietary needs, fill out the form below, and we'll get back to you ASAP.