Are you planning a trip to the Philippines but feeling overwhelmed by the thousands of islands? From crystal-clear lagoons to world-class surf breaks, this archipelago is home to the best beaches in the world. This Philippines travel guide provides a perfect 10-day itinerary to help you navigate the highlights.
Master your 10-day Philippines adventure! From Siargao’s waves to El Nido’s lagoons, get the full route, 2026 entry requirements, and a detailed budget in USD. Plan your stress-free tropical escape today!
Table of Contents
- Essential Philippines Entry Requirements
- 10-Day Philippines Itinerary
- Where to Stay: Best Airbnb Locations
- Essential Packing Checklist
- Estimated 10-Day Budget (USD)
Essential Philippines Entry Requirements
Before you pack your bags, it is crucial to understand the philippines entry requirements to ensure a smooth arrival. To be a smart traveller philippines, keep the following in mind:
- Official Registration: All travelers must complete the entry form on the official government website prior to arrival.
- The Website: The only official site to use is etravel.gov.ph.
- Cost: This is a free service.
- Safety Tip: Beware of scams; do not pay any third-party websites asking for money for this registration.
10-Day Philippines Itinerary
Days 1-2: Cebu Itinerary – Waterfalls & Marine Life
Your cebu itinerary begins in a province known for adrenaline and natural beauty.
- Kawasan Falls: Famous for its stunning turquoise water and canyoneering adventures.
- Moalboal: A must-visit for the “sardine run” and snorkeling with sea turtles.
- Hidden Gems: Visit Inambakan Falls for fewer crowds and Osmena Peak for a panoramic mountain view.
Day 3: Bohol’s Wonders & Balicasag Island
Bohol is one of the top places to visit in Philippines. Explore the iconic Chocolate Hills and take a boat tour to Isla Balicasag for some of the best coral reef snorkeling in the region.
Day 4: Apo Island Sanctuary
A visit to Apo Island is a highlight for any nature lover. This volcanic island is a protected marine sanctuary where you can swim alongside giant sea turtles in their natural habitat.
Days 5-6: Siargao – The Surfing Capital
Fly to Siargao for a laid-back island vibe.
- Cloud 9: The most famous surf break in the country.
- Island Exploration: Don’t miss the Maasin River rope swing, the Coconut Deck viewpoint, and a boat trip to Guyam Island.
Days 7-8: El Nido, Palawan
El Nido is world-renowned for its dramatic limestone cliffs.
- Island Hopping: Essential stops include the Big Lagoon and Entalula Island.
- Beach Relaxation: Spend your afternoon at Nacpan Beach or Corong Corong Beach for an unforgettable sunset.
- Puerto Princesa: If you have time, consider the Underground River Tour, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Days 9-10: Coron Island Hopping
Conclude your philippines itinerary with the breathtaking beauty of Coron.
- Top Spots: Kayangan Lake and Twin Lagoon offer the most iconic views in the country.
- Diving & Snorkeling: Explore Barracuda Lake and the vibrant Coral Garden.
Note: If you prefer high-end resorts and a vibrant nightlife, you might consider swapping Siargao for boracay Philippines, known for its powder-white sand and world-class amenities.
Where to Stay: Best Airbnb Locations for Easy Transfers
To make your island transfers as seamless as possible, we recommend booking your Airbnbs Or Hotels in these strategic areas:
| Destination | Best Area for Airbnb | Why? |
| Cebu | Cebu City (near the port) | Easy access to fast ferries heading to Bohol. |
| Siargao | General Luna | Walking distance to restaurants and boat departure points. |
| El Nido | Corong Corong | Quieter than the town center but very close to the boat docks. |
| Coron | Coron Town Proper | Best access to the Coron Public Market and tour boat wharves. |
Essential Packing Checklist
Since you’ll be doing a lot of island hopping, the focus is on lightweight, quick-dry, and waterproof gear.
Water & Adventure Gear
- Dry Bag: Crucial for protecting electronics and dry clothes during boat tours. A 20L bag is a versatile size.
- Waterproof Phone Case: For taking photos in the water and protecting your phone from sudden rain.
- Aqua Shoes: Essential for protecting your feet from sharp coral, rocks, or sea urchins when entering the water.
- Action Camera (e.g., GoPro): The best way to capture underwater memories at Apo Island or Coron.
- Snorkel Gear: While tours provide them, having your own ensures a better fit and better hygiene.
Clothing & Accessories
- Lightweight, Breathable Clothes: Opt for linen or cotton to handle 90°F humidity.
- Rash Guards: Better than sunscreen for protecting your skin from UV rays and jellyfish.
- Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Standard sunscreens can kill coral; many parks require reef-safe formulas.
- Wide-Brimmed Hat & Sunglasses: For maximum protection during long days on a boat.
- Quick-Dry Travel Towel: Lightweight and dries much faster than standard cotton towels.
Miscellaneous
- Power Bank: GPS, maps, and photos drain batteries quickly during all-day tours.
- Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes can be aggressive; use a DEET-based repellent to prevent Dengue.
- First Aid Kit: Include band-aids, antiseptic, and rehydration salts.
Estimated 10-Day Budget (USD)
Prices vary by island, with Boracay Philippines and El Nido being more expensive than rural areas.
| Category | Budget Style (Daily) | Mid-Range Style (Daily) | 10-Day Total (Mid-Range) |
| Accommodation | $10 – $20 | $40 – $80 | $400 – $800 |
| Food & Drinks | $10 – $15 | $25 – $40 | $250 – $400 |
| Activities | $15 – $25 | $40 – $90 | $400 – $900 |
| Local Transport | $5 – $10 | $15 – $30 | $150 – $300 |
| Total Daily | $40 – $70 | $120 – $240 | $1,200 – $2,400 |
Additional One-Time Costs
- Domestic Flights: Expect to pay $50 – $150 per flight (e.g., Cebu to Siargao or Siargao to El Nido).
- Philippines Entry Requirements: The etravel.gov.ph registration is FREE; never pay a third-party site for this.
Pro Tip: Always carry plenty of cash (Philippine Pesos). While major cities have ATMs, remote areas like parts of El Nido or Siargao may have limited access or frequent outages.