Adventure FAQs

Why is it best to book this adventure in advance?

Due to the complex nature of this itinerary –  internal flights, limited off-grid experiences and truly unique island accommodation – it can be difficult (though not impossible) for us to secure spots for latecomers. If you’d prefer to avoid the stress of not knowing if you’re ‘in’, booking early will give you the guarantee you need.

Which airport do I need to fly in and out of? Plus airport code

Fly into Manila International Airport (MNL).

The trip ends on Day 12 on Bohol Island. From here, a ferry transfer is included to Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) on Cebu Island, which has many international connections.

Alternatively, you can choose to finish the trip on Bohol Island. If you wish to extend your stay, you’ll be able to find the hotel details on the Flash Pack app, and book directly. You’ll then need to make your own way to Bohol-Pangloa International Airport (TAG), which has regular flights to Manila. Please note there is no reduction in price if you decide not to take the ferry transfer.

What time should my flight arrive (in time for the welcome meeting)?

Before 3pm ideally. The welcome meeting and dinner will be from 5pm onwards starting at the hotel, which is located approximately 15 minutes away from the airport.

What time should my flight depart on the last day?

On your final day, you’ll travel from Bohol to Mactan-Cebu International Airport by ferry and then road – a journey of around three hours. Due to the transfer time, and the need to be at the airport at least three hours before your flight departs, you should book a flight after 3pm for a stress-free journey home (see next FAQ for more info).

Alternatively, if you choose to fly from Bohol–Panglao International Airport instead, the journey from your hotel takes around 10 minutes by taxi. Hotel check-out is at 12pm.

Are airport transfers included?

If you arrive on Day 1 of your adventure, or you’ve booked yourself a pre-night at the same hotel the adventure starts from, your airport arrival transfer will be included. Arrival transfers are private to Flash Pack and in groups depending on flight times, so you may have to wait in the airport for a short while.

However, if you’ve booked alternative pre-trip accommodation or are arriving by another mode of transport, you’ll have to arrange your own arrival transfer.

Please also note: in order to secure your place on the private transfer, you’ll need to provide your flight details to our Customer Experience team no later than 30 days prior to your adventure’s departure date. You’ll get automated email reminders about this, but the team won’t be chasing you. That’s why it’s key to get this information over in good time. If the details are provided later than 30 days pre-departure, you’ll have to arrange your own arrival transfer.

This adventure includes a departure transfer from Bohol to Mactan-Cebu International Airport. To use this service, please book a flight that departs after 3pm on your last day.

The transfer consists of an OceanJet ferry crossing from Bohol to Cebu, followed by a road transfer of around 45 minutes to 1 hour to the airport. The ferry schedule will be chosen to best match the group’s departure flights, though if you need to travel on a different service, this is possible. Due to the limited ferry times, you may arrive at the airport earlier than you would typically prefer.

If you extend your stay in Bohol, a departure transfer will not be included – you will need to book a ferry yourself, and your hotel will usually be able to assist with booking the land transfer from Cebu ferry terminal. If not, we recommend using the Grab app rather than a local taxi for a smoother transfer to the airport.

If you choose to fly from Bohol–Panglao International Airport instead, your Pack Leader can help you arrange a local taxi for the short 10-minute journey from your hotel.

Are tips included?

Please note that tips are not included in the cost of this adventure. Suggested amounts per person are:

• Pack Leader: 3-5 USD per day
• Drivers: 3 USD per day
• Local tips: your Pack Leader will be able to advise on how much to tip local guides, restaurants, etc. Some Pack Leaders will collect a tipping kitty (approximately 3 USD per day) at the welcome meeting to take care of local tips.

However, all tips are at your discretion depending on what you feel comfortable with.

How much should I budget per day for extras?

2,000 Philippine peso, the equivalent of 30 GBP.

What fitness levels do I need for this trip?

Overall, the trip is very relaxed so no real level of fitness is needed. However, there is a good amount of walking and biking (at your own pace).

We recommend having a read-through of the itinerary above, and getting in touch if you have specific questions on fitness.

Do I need a visa?

Up-to-date visa and entry information can be found using our official partner, Sherpa, who can help you arrange a visa if needed.

You can also find essential travel advice – including security and local laws, as well as passport and visa information – on the government website of your home country:

• UK residents: review the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice before your adventure.
• US residents: consult the US Department of State Travel Advice for important travel information.
• Australian residents: check the Smart Traveler website for up-to-date travel advice.
• Residents of other countries: refer to the travel advice provided by your own government or local consulate.

Please be aware that passport and visa requirements can change before departure, so it’s important to stay updated with the latest information.

What are the mandatory entry requirements for the Philippines?

You will need:

• Passport with at least six months validity from arrival date in the Philippines
• International outbound ticket
• All travellers must fill in the eArrival Card

Requirements can change frequently so please check online for updates ahead of your travels.

What vaccinations and medication will I need?

While we are not medical professionals and cannot offer personalised medical advice, we want to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable adventure. Here are some tips to help you prepare.

1. Consult with a healthcare professional

We recommend scheduling an appointment with your travel nurse or doctor at least eight weeks before your adventure. This will give you ample time to receive any necessary vaccines or medications.

2. Up-to-date medical advice

• UK residents: visit the NHS Fit For Travel website for the latest medical advice.
• US residents: check the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for specialised health information.
• Australian residents: refer to the Smart Traveler Health website for current medical advice.

3. Government travel advice

• UK residents: review the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice before your adventure.
• US residents: consult the US Department of State Travel Advice for important travel information.
• Australian residents: check the Smart Traveler website for up-to-date travel advice.

4. Medication tips

If you take prescription medication, ensure you bring enough to last the entire adventure, plus a few extra days in case of travel delays. Carry a copy of your prescription with you in case you need to visit a clinic while abroad.

We hope this information will help you prepare for a safe and healthy adventure.

Will I have my own tent on Ginto Island if I’ve booked a single room?

If you’ve paid for a single room on your Philippines adventure, this also includes your own mesh tent on Ginto Island (Nights 2 & 3) – you won’t be sharing with another Flashpacker. That said, due to the remote and experiential nature of this unique stay, there are no private bathrooms. Instead, the group shares access to two toilets and two shower rooms.

Will this itinerary change?

Please be aware that the itinerary, activities and hotels are subject to change. These changes can happen with little notice due to availability, poor weather, seasonal changes, or other circumstances beyond our control – but we’ll always do our best to ensure it has little impact on your experience. From time to time, we may also make changes to your itinerary to try out new ideas and keep things fresh and exciting.