Your 7-Day Philippines & Palawan, Philippines Itinerary

📅 Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Manila and El Nido is during the dry season, from November to April. Temperatures average 25-32°C (77-90°F) with lower humidity and minimal rainfall, ideal for island hopping in El Nido. Peak season, including Christmas, New Year, and Holy Week (March/April), sees higher crowds and prices; book accommodations and flights months in advance. The wet season (May to October) brings heavy rains and the risk of typhoons, especially from July to September, with temperatures still warm but humidity high.

Shopping in the Philippines offers diverse experiences, from Manila's bustling markets and modern malls like Kultura Filipino, where you can find piña fabric and South Sea pearls, to the more laid-back, haggle-friendly stalls of Greenhills. In El Nido, the focus shifts to practical beach essentials and local crafts found in small boutiques and the Public Market, perfect for Palawan cashew nuts and artisanal VCO products. While prices are generally lower than in neighboring Asian countries, concentrating on artisan hubs and specific local brands yields genuine value.

• Prioritize using the Grab app for transport in Metro Manila, especially during peak hours, as it provides safer, metered fares compared to flagging down taxis which may refuse meters.
• Avoid traveling on provincial buses for long distances due to their high accident rate; opt for reputable inter-island flights or private van transfers for journeys to Palawan and other islands.
• Always withdraw sufficient Philippine Peso (PHP) cash in Manila before heading to El Nido, as ATMs there are fewer and frequently run out of money, and many island establishments are cash-only.
• Charge all electronic devices, including power banks, whenever electricity is reliably available in El Nido, as power cuts are common and unpredictable, often lasting several hours.
• Book island hopping tours in El Nido directly with local tour operators in town (e.g., El Nido Tour A, B, C, D) for competitive pricing, often PHP 1,200-1,800, rather than through hotels.
• When using tricycles or tuk-tuks in El Nido, always negotiate and agree on the fare (e.g., PHP 50-100 for short rides within town) before starting your journey to avoid inflated 'tourist prices'.
• Carry a small, resealable dry bag for island hopping in El Nido to protect electronics, cash, and documents from water spray during boat transfers and beach landings.
• Be extra vigilant with belongings in crowded areas of Metro Manila, such as Divisoria, Quiapo, and flea markets during the Christmas season, where pickpockets are known to operate actively.

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  Reef-safe sunscreen (El Nido marine parks require it)
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  DEET mosquito repellent (malaria/dengue areas)
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  Quick-dry swimwear (2 sets for rotation)
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  Lightweight long-sleeved shirt + pants (sun/mosquito protection)
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  Water shoes or sturdy sandals (for island hopping, rocky beaches)
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  Compact umbrella or light rain jacket (wet season showers)
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  Portable power bank (for El Nido power cuts)
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  Small dry bag (for island hopping, protecting electronics)
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  Snorkel mask + fin set (rental quality varies)
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  Small first-aid kit (cuts, scrapes, stomach meds)
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  Sarong or light shawl (for sun protection, impromptu cover)
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  PHP 5,000-10,000 in small bills (El Nido cash payments)