Philippines

Explore the best of the Philippines independently over 13 days, island-hopping from Manila through Moalboal and Coron to the stunning limestone karsts of El Nido, Palawan. Swim with sardines, canyon through turquoise waterfalls, sail on a traditional banca boat, and sleep under the stars on deserted tropical islands — all at a fraction of the group tour price. This self-launched itinerary replaces guided transport with budget flights, ferries and local jeepneys, and swaps included group activities for self-bookable equivalents via GetYourGuide and local operators. All costs are approximate estimates per person.

Travel Crew

~£596

Experience the best of the central Philippines independently — from colonial Cebu to the bizarre Chocolate Hills of Bohol, SUP yoga on the Loboc River, pristine Panglao beaches and the mystical island of Siquijor. This self-launched version follows the same route as Intrepid's Essential Philippines tour but replaces group-tour pricing with local ferries, public transport, self-bookable activities and budget hotels or guesthouses. All costs are approximate estimates per person and based on current backpacker/budget traveller rates.

Travel Crew

~£450

Explore the best of the Philippines independently — from the buzzing streets of Manila to the jaw-dropping limestone karsts of El Nido via the UNESCO-listed Puerto Princesa Underground River and the secluded beaches of Port Barton. This self-launched itinerary replicates the Gap360 Philippines Adventure at a fraction of the cost by swapping group-tour pricing for direct bookings, local transport, and budget-friendly accommodation. Costs below are per person estimates for the 10-day route; budget an extra ~£150–200 if extending to 14 days to include Coron. All costs are approximate.

Travel Crew

~£550

Experience the best of the Philippines independently — island-hopping across Palawan, Coron, Cebu and Boracay at a fraction of the group tour price. This self-launched itinerary follows the same stunning route as Gap360's Philippines Paradise Islands trip, swapping guided group transport for public ferries, shared vans and budget flights, and replacing included group accommodation with comparable beach guesthouses, hostels and budget hotels. You'll hit every highlight: the sardine run at Moalboal, canyoneering at Kawasan Falls, overnight castaway on Daracotan Island, shipwreck snorkelling in Coron, and sunsets on Boracay's White Beach — all bookable yourself via GetYourGuide, Klook or direct with local operators. All costs are approximate estimates per person.

Travel Crew

~£720

This self-launched version of Gap360's 'Pure Philippines' tour takes you on the same spectacular island-hopping route — from Manila to Cebu, Coron, El Nido, Port Barton and Puerto Princesa — without the group tour price tag. You'll canyoneer Kawasan Falls, snorkel with sardines, sail to secret islands, and cruise the Underground River entirely on your own terms. By booking transport, accommodation and activities independently (via local operators, GetYourGuide, and Klook), you can recreate every highlight for a fraction of the cost. All cost estimates are approximate and based on current budget traveller rates as of mid-2025.

Travel Crew

~£825