An expedition with a professional traveler to the wonders of Palawan Island, visiting the Ati and Batak tribes, and experiencing the syncretic Ati-Atihan festival
PHILIPPINES
January 12 - 20, 2025
Philippines
tour to Madagascar
Philippines
tour to Madagascar
philippines_2025, Palawan Island, the Aeta and Batak tribes syncretic Ati-Atihan festival
Discover the Philippines — a hidden gem in Southeast Asia, a nation of seven thousand islands nestled among seas and oceans.
On Palawan, the most exotic of the islands, an adventure awaits: a journey down the Puerto Princesa River through ancient caves, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Philippines is not only a land of natural wonders but also a treasure trove of cultural heritage, revealed in the traditions of ancient tribes. As part of our expedition, you'll immerse yourself in the daily life of the Batak and Ati peoples, who carefully preserve their ancient customs and rituals.
You'll also participate in the country's most vibrant celebration—the Ati-Atihan Festival, rightly called the "mother of all Philippine festivals."
Discover the true magic of the tropics. These are islands that will haunt your dreams.
On Palawan, the most exotic of the islands, an adventure awaits: a journey down the Puerto Princesa River through ancient caves, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Philippines is not only a land of natural wonders but also a treasure trove of cultural heritage, revealed in the traditions of ancient tribes. As part of our expedition, you'll immerse yourself in the daily life of the Batak and Ati peoples, who carefully preserve their ancient customs and rituals.
You'll also participate in the country's most vibrant celebration—the Ati-Atihan Festival, rightly called the "mother of all Philippine festivals."
Discover the true magic of the tropics. These are islands that will haunt your dreams.
SCHEDULE AND COST:
Travel Dates: January 12 – 20, 2025
Duration: 9 days / 8 nights
Group Size: 6 – 12 participants
Cost per Person (based on double occupancy):
Early booking discount: 10% (for bookings made before September 12, 2024)
All-Inclusive (including local flight from El Nido to Caticlan and three meals daily), except:
Estimated cost of round-trip flights Moscow – Puerto Princesa and Caticlan – Moscow via Manila: $1,000 – $1,200 USD.
Single Occupancy Supplement: $550 USD (applies to the entire itinerary)
TRAVEL PROGRAM:Tour of the Philippines
1. January 12, 2025 (Sunday): ARRIVAL IN PUERTO PRINCESA
Arrival in Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan Island, the westernmost island in the Philippine archipelago. Transfer and check-in at PRINCESA GARDEN ISLAND RESORT AND SPA 4*. Free time in Puerto Princesa.
Meals included: Dinner
Accommodation included: PRINCESA GARDEN ISLAND RESORT AND SPA 4*
Recommended international flights to Manila:
Recommended flights to Puerto Princesa:
Day 2. January 13, 2025 (Monday): BATAK TRIBE
After breakfast, we will visit the Batak tribe. Our trek to the traditional village will involve crossing several rivers. Although the 1.5-hour hike is not difficult, we should be prepared to get wet.
In the village, we will learn about the traditional lifestyle of the Batak people, their hunting methods, and traditional crafts. The community leaders, dressed in traditional attire and equipped with handmade hunting gear, will welcome us and introduce us to their culture. They will perform traditional dances and sounds used in ceremonies to express gratitude to nature spirits for a bountiful harvest and to worship pagan gods. We will also have the opportunity to interact with the tribe and learn about their hunting strategies and way of life.
The Batak were once a nomadic people but were forced by the government to settle in small villages. Despite this, they often venture into the forest for several days to harvest, which has both economic and spiritual significance. Their belief system is based on animism, with spirits residing in nature. They distinguish between "panyaen" (malicious spirits) and "divata" (generally benevolent but capricious spirits). The Batak regularly make offerings to these spirits, and shamans undergo spiritual possession to communicate with them and heal the sick.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: PRINCESA GARDEN ISLAND RESORT AND SPA 4*
Day 3. January 14, 2025 (Tuesday): PUERTO PRINCESA – SABANG – UNDERGROUND RIVER – DALUYON
Today, we will head to Sabang to explore the Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the natural wonders of the world. Upon arrival in Sabang, we will take a boat to the National Park, where we will switch to canoes for a journey through the Puerto Princesa Underground River.
After lunch, we will enjoy a boat ride through scenic mangrove forests with an experienced local guide who will introduce us to the mangrove ecosystem.
Later, we will check into the DALUYON BEACH AND MOUNTAIN RESORT 4*, located right on the shores of the South China Sea.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: DALUYON BEACH AND MOUNTAIN RESORT 4*
Day 4. January 15, 2025 (Wednesday): SABANG – TAYTAY – EL NIDO
After breakfast, we will embark on a long drive to El Nido (5 – 5.5 hours).
On the way, we will visit the town of Taytay, home to the most famous and important historical landmark in all of Palawan, the Santa Isabel Fort. During high tide, the fort is separated from the mainland by over 100 meters, but it reconnects during low tide.
The town has a charming provincial feel, where the locals go about their daily lives and treat tourists as honored guests without trying to sell unnecessary services at every step.
After lunch, we will arrive in El Nido, the gateway to the most beautiful islands.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: FUNNY LION EL NIDO
Day 5. January 16, 2025 (Thursday): EL NIDO ISLAND HOPPING
After breakfast, we will embark on an unforgettable island-hopping tour around El Nido. Our first stop will be the Big Lagoon, where we can explore by boat or kayak among stunning rock formations. Next, we will visit the Sacret Lagoon to explore its caves. We will then relax at Seven Commando Beach and go snorkeling at Shimizu Island. We will end the day by watching the sunset at the beautiful Payong-Payong Beach.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: FUNNY LION EL NIDO
Day 6. January 17, 2025 (Friday): EL NIDO – BORACAY
Today, we will leave El Nido and head to Lio Airport for our flight to Boracay, another paradise island with white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.
Our flight is expected to depart at 1:00 PM, arriving in Caticlan at 2:00 PM. From the airport, we will take a 15-20 minute ferry ride, and then a short drive to our hotel.
In the evening, we’ll have free time on Boracay at Savoy Hotel Boracay Newcoast 4*.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Savoy Hotel Boracay Newcoast 4*
Day 7. January 18, 2025 (Saturday): ATI TRIBE
After breakfast, we will visit the Ati tribe, who are Negritos by origin, having migrated to the Philippines on foot about forty-five thousand years ago during the Paleolithic period. They stand out from other groups with their dark skin and round eyes and are spread across Boracay, Panay, and other Visayan Islands.
We will visit the Ati village, which spans over 2 hectares and is surrounded by a wall, home to about 200 Ati people. The Ati were the first inhabitants of Boracay, practicing animism and believing in supernatural forces. According to their beliefs, water, sky, and mountains are guarded by nature spirits. The Ati are also known for their expertise in herbal medicine and their hunting skills.
During our visit, the village children will welcome us with a small performance. The village complex consists of 30 houses and includes educational facilities, a clinic, a school, a chapel, and even a ceremonial site and community house, allowing the Ati to maintain their traditional beliefs.
We will also visit the Ati Heritage Center, where we will learn about the tribe’s important historical milestones. The Heritage Center sometimes serves as a chapel or school, and nearby is a museum showcasing Ati historical artifacts.
During our visit, we will observe their fishing and farming techniques.
This visit will prepare us for participating in the Ati-Atihan Festival, where we will learn about the significance of this event directly from the tribe. The festival is one of the most anticipated and colorful events in the Philippines. This annual celebration, which began in 1212, commemorates two significant events: the treaty between the tribes and the veneration of Santo Niño (the Child Jesus).
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Savoy Hotel Boracay Newcoast 4*
Day 8: January 19, 2025 (Sunday) - ATI-ATIHAN FESTIVAL
After breakfast, we will head to Aklan to take part in the Ati-Atihan Festival, the mother of all Filipino festivals. Our journey will begin with a trip to the Cagban port, where we will board a shuttle to Kalibo/Aklan.
Here, we will be captivated by a vibrant parade, where people dressed in traditional attire dance and sing in honor of the Santo Niño (Holy Child). Festival participants will showcase their rich culture and traditions on elaborately decorated floats, accompanied by loud, rhythmic music. We will also have the opportunity to join in the street dance parade.
Ati-Atihan is the most colorful and the oldest festival in the Philippines, which is why it is called the mother of all festivals.
The history of this festival dates back to the 13th century when fair-skinned Malay settlers from the island of Borneo arrived on Panay Island. They bought a small piece of land from the local Negrito tribe, the Ati, and were allowed to settle in the valley. One year, the Ati experienced a poor harvest and asked the Malays for food. The Malays extended a helping hand to their neighbors. In return, the Ati held a celebration with songs and dances as a sign of friendship. The Malays painted their faces black in honor of the Ati and joined the festivities.
When the Spanish arrived on the island, the festival adopted some Catholic elements, including the veneration of the Santo Niño.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Savoy Hotel Boracay Newcoast 4*
Day 9: January 20, 2025 (Monday) - DEPARTURE FROM BORACAY
After breakfast, we will transfer to Caticlan Airport (Boracay) for our flight to Manila, followed by an international flight.
Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation included: None
Recommended flights from Caticlan Airport, Boracay:
Recommended international flights from Manila:
Duration: 9 days / 8 nights
Group Size: 6 – 12 participants
Cost per Person (based on double occupancy):
- $3,590 for 11 – 12 participants, or
- $3,750 for 9 – 10 participants, or
- $3,890 for 8 participants, or
- $3,990 for 6 – 7 participants
Early booking discount: 10% (for bookings made before September 12, 2024)
All-Inclusive (including local flight from El Nido to Caticlan and three meals daily), except:
- International flight to Puerto Princesa and return from Caticlan,
- International travel medical insurance,
- Philippines visa (not required for Russian citizens).
Estimated cost of round-trip flights Moscow – Puerto Princesa and Caticlan – Moscow via Manila: $1,000 – $1,200 USD.
Single Occupancy Supplement: $550 USD (applies to the entire itinerary)
TRAVEL PROGRAM:Tour of the Philippines
1. January 12, 2025 (Sunday): ARRIVAL IN PUERTO PRINCESA
Arrival in Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan Island, the westernmost island in the Philippine archipelago. Transfer and check-in at PRINCESA GARDEN ISLAND RESORT AND SPA 4*. Free time in Puerto Princesa.
Meals included: Dinner
Accommodation included: PRINCESA GARDEN ISLAND RESORT AND SPA 4*
Recommended international flights to Manila:
- Etihad Airways, flight EY-446, departure from Abu Dhabi on January 11 at 8:55 AM, arrival in Manila on January 11 at 9:10 PM,
- Turkish Airlines, flight TK-84, departure from Istanbul on January 11 at 2:10 AM, arrival in Manila on January 11 at 6:10 PM,
- Qatar Airways, flight QR-932, departure from Doha on January 11 at 2:55 AM, arrival in Manila on January 11 at 4:30 PM,
- Or any other flight arriving in Manila on January 12 with a connection to a flight to Puerto Princesa.
Recommended flights to Puerto Princesa:
- AirAsia Zest, flight Z2-430, departure from Manila on January 12 at 1:35 PM, arrival in Puerto Princesa on January 12 at 3:00 PM,
- Philippine Airlines, flight PR-2787, departure from Manila on January 12 at 6:05 PM, arrival in Puerto Princesa on January 12 at 7:20 PM,
- Cebu Pacific, flight 5J-645, departure from Manila on January 12 at 10:40 AM, arrival in Puerto Princesa on January 12 at 12:10 PM,
- Any other flight arriving in Puerto Princesa at any time on January 12.
Day 2. January 13, 2025 (Monday): BATAK TRIBE
After breakfast, we will visit the Batak tribe. Our trek to the traditional village will involve crossing several rivers. Although the 1.5-hour hike is not difficult, we should be prepared to get wet.
In the village, we will learn about the traditional lifestyle of the Batak people, their hunting methods, and traditional crafts. The community leaders, dressed in traditional attire and equipped with handmade hunting gear, will welcome us and introduce us to their culture. They will perform traditional dances and sounds used in ceremonies to express gratitude to nature spirits for a bountiful harvest and to worship pagan gods. We will also have the opportunity to interact with the tribe and learn about their hunting strategies and way of life.
The Batak were once a nomadic people but were forced by the government to settle in small villages. Despite this, they often venture into the forest for several days to harvest, which has both economic and spiritual significance. Their belief system is based on animism, with spirits residing in nature. They distinguish between "panyaen" (malicious spirits) and "divata" (generally benevolent but capricious spirits). The Batak regularly make offerings to these spirits, and shamans undergo spiritual possession to communicate with them and heal the sick.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: PRINCESA GARDEN ISLAND RESORT AND SPA 4*
Day 3. January 14, 2025 (Tuesday): PUERTO PRINCESA – SABANG – UNDERGROUND RIVER – DALUYON
Today, we will head to Sabang to explore the Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the natural wonders of the world. Upon arrival in Sabang, we will take a boat to the National Park, where we will switch to canoes for a journey through the Puerto Princesa Underground River.
After lunch, we will enjoy a boat ride through scenic mangrove forests with an experienced local guide who will introduce us to the mangrove ecosystem.
Later, we will check into the DALUYON BEACH AND MOUNTAIN RESORT 4*, located right on the shores of the South China Sea.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: DALUYON BEACH AND MOUNTAIN RESORT 4*
Day 4. January 15, 2025 (Wednesday): SABANG – TAYTAY – EL NIDO
After breakfast, we will embark on a long drive to El Nido (5 – 5.5 hours).
On the way, we will visit the town of Taytay, home to the most famous and important historical landmark in all of Palawan, the Santa Isabel Fort. During high tide, the fort is separated from the mainland by over 100 meters, but it reconnects during low tide.
The town has a charming provincial feel, where the locals go about their daily lives and treat tourists as honored guests without trying to sell unnecessary services at every step.
After lunch, we will arrive in El Nido, the gateway to the most beautiful islands.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: FUNNY LION EL NIDO
Day 5. January 16, 2025 (Thursday): EL NIDO ISLAND HOPPING
After breakfast, we will embark on an unforgettable island-hopping tour around El Nido. Our first stop will be the Big Lagoon, where we can explore by boat or kayak among stunning rock formations. Next, we will visit the Sacret Lagoon to explore its caves. We will then relax at Seven Commando Beach and go snorkeling at Shimizu Island. We will end the day by watching the sunset at the beautiful Payong-Payong Beach.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: FUNNY LION EL NIDO
Day 6. January 17, 2025 (Friday): EL NIDO – BORACAY
Today, we will leave El Nido and head to Lio Airport for our flight to Boracay, another paradise island with white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.
Our flight is expected to depart at 1:00 PM, arriving in Caticlan at 2:00 PM. From the airport, we will take a 15-20 minute ferry ride, and then a short drive to our hotel.
In the evening, we’ll have free time on Boracay at Savoy Hotel Boracay Newcoast 4*.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Savoy Hotel Boracay Newcoast 4*
Day 7. January 18, 2025 (Saturday): ATI TRIBE
After breakfast, we will visit the Ati tribe, who are Negritos by origin, having migrated to the Philippines on foot about forty-five thousand years ago during the Paleolithic period. They stand out from other groups with their dark skin and round eyes and are spread across Boracay, Panay, and other Visayan Islands.
We will visit the Ati village, which spans over 2 hectares and is surrounded by a wall, home to about 200 Ati people. The Ati were the first inhabitants of Boracay, practicing animism and believing in supernatural forces. According to their beliefs, water, sky, and mountains are guarded by nature spirits. The Ati are also known for their expertise in herbal medicine and their hunting skills.
During our visit, the village children will welcome us with a small performance. The village complex consists of 30 houses and includes educational facilities, a clinic, a school, a chapel, and even a ceremonial site and community house, allowing the Ati to maintain their traditional beliefs.
We will also visit the Ati Heritage Center, where we will learn about the tribe’s important historical milestones. The Heritage Center sometimes serves as a chapel or school, and nearby is a museum showcasing Ati historical artifacts.
During our visit, we will observe their fishing and farming techniques.
This visit will prepare us for participating in the Ati-Atihan Festival, where we will learn about the significance of this event directly from the tribe. The festival is one of the most anticipated and colorful events in the Philippines. This annual celebration, which began in 1212, commemorates two significant events: the treaty between the tribes and the veneration of Santo Niño (the Child Jesus).
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Savoy Hotel Boracay Newcoast 4*
Day 8: January 19, 2025 (Sunday) - ATI-ATIHAN FESTIVAL
After breakfast, we will head to Aklan to take part in the Ati-Atihan Festival, the mother of all Filipino festivals. Our journey will begin with a trip to the Cagban port, where we will board a shuttle to Kalibo/Aklan.
Here, we will be captivated by a vibrant parade, where people dressed in traditional attire dance and sing in honor of the Santo Niño (Holy Child). Festival participants will showcase their rich culture and traditions on elaborately decorated floats, accompanied by loud, rhythmic music. We will also have the opportunity to join in the street dance parade.
Ati-Atihan is the most colorful and the oldest festival in the Philippines, which is why it is called the mother of all festivals.
The history of this festival dates back to the 13th century when fair-skinned Malay settlers from the island of Borneo arrived on Panay Island. They bought a small piece of land from the local Negrito tribe, the Ati, and were allowed to settle in the valley. One year, the Ati experienced a poor harvest and asked the Malays for food. The Malays extended a helping hand to their neighbors. In return, the Ati held a celebration with songs and dances as a sign of friendship. The Malays painted their faces black in honor of the Ati and joined the festivities.
When the Spanish arrived on the island, the festival adopted some Catholic elements, including the veneration of the Santo Niño.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Savoy Hotel Boracay Newcoast 4*
Day 9: January 20, 2025 (Monday) - DEPARTURE FROM BORACAY
After breakfast, we will transfer to Caticlan Airport (Boracay) for our flight to Manila, followed by an international flight.
Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation included: None
Recommended flights from Caticlan Airport, Boracay:
- AirAsia Zest, flight Z2-222, departing from Caticlan on January 20 at 12:35 PM, arriving in Manila on January 20 at 1:45 PM.
- Philippine Airlines, flight PR-2038, departing from Caticlan on January 20 at 11:35 AM, arriving in Manila on January 20 at 12:50 PM.
- Cebu Pacific, flight 5J-898, departing from Caticlan on January 20 at 12:15 PM, arriving in Manila on January 20 at 1:25 PM.
- Any other flight departing from Caticlan Airport on January 20.
Recommended international flights from Manila:
- Etihad Airways, flight EY-441, departing from Manila on January 20 at 6:45 PM, arriving in Abu Dhabi on January 21 at 12:15 AM.
- Emirates, flight EK-333, departing from Manila on January 20 at 5:30 PM, arriving in Dubai on January 20 at 11:05 PM.
- Qatar Airways, flight QR-933, departing from Manila on January 20 at 6:30 PM, arriving in Doha on January 20 at 11:20 PM.
- Turkish Airlines, flight TK-85, departing from Manila on January 20 at 9:35 PM, arriving in Istanbul on January 21 at 5:55 AM.
- Any other flight departing from Manila that aligns with your Caticlan flight on January 20.
Cost includes:
Cost excludes (to be additionally paid):
To take with:
- Accommodation in hotels based on double occupancy (TWIN / DBL)
- Domestic flight from El Nido to Caticlan
- Three meals a day
- Drinking water throughout the itinerary
- All transfers to/from the airport
- All transportation according to the program: _____
- All entrance fees
- Attendance at all program events
- Fees for local communities
- English-speaking guide and a Russian- and English-speaking team leader throughout the trip
Cost excludes (to be additionally paid):
- International flight to Puerto Princesa and return from Caticlan
- International medical insurance
- Philippine visa (not required for Russian citizens)
- Single accommodation
- Soft and alcoholic drinks, and personal expenses
- Tips/gifts for the local people
To take with:
- Sets of clothing appropriate for the weather conditions: clothing for hot weather and one set of warm clothes
- A set of long-sleeved clothing
- Comfortable closed-toe and open-toe shoes
- A backpack for luggage, a small backpack for personal items and photography equipment
- Headlamp
- Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat)
- Personal hygiene products
- Personal first-aid kit (pain relievers, antiseptics, antibiotics, burn and food poisoning remedies, any personal medications)
- Photo and video equipment
- Batteries and a power bank
Why with MZUNGU EXPEDITIONS?
- 1UNIQUENESS
We find the most astonishing places on Earth and speed up to reach them. Our motto is to go ahead of road roller, touch the unique and unknown, before it disappears. - 2ADVENTURISM
Wherever we go, we look for challenging activities and adventures, filling the journey with absolutely different spirit and emotions. That is why people join us over and over again. - 3SAFETY
In our trips we pay special attention to safety. All our travels are based on personal experience, equipped with the best gear, involving proved providers and experienced local guides who perfectly know local features. - 4EXPERIENCE
We have a unique experience of the most offbeat expeditions and ascents, deep knowledge of countries and peoples, and are ready to share it with you. All the expeditions and climbings are guided by Mzungu himself, guaranteeing exciting traveling and your comfort. - 5LOW PRICE
All our trips are reach in adventures, with high quality accommodation, transportation and meals included. We do not save on it. Thanks to solid contacts with reliable providers we offer really good prices and high quality.
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