Undiscovered Philippines & Indonesia

Your expedition begins in the Philippines’s vibrant capital of Manila where, having arrived independently, you will make your way to the group hotel for your included overnight stay. Spend some time exploring this unique city before joining your fellow travellers and some of your expedition guides for dinner in the evening.

After breakfast this morning, you will transfer to the airport for your short flight to Legazpi City, where there will be time for some exploration of the region including the Mayon Volcano National Park where you will learn about the area’s volcanic geology and enjoy wonderful views of the classically shaped volcanic cone of Mount Mayon which dominates the skyline. Later in the afternoon you will transfer to the port to board your expedition vessel. Settle into your comfortable cabin and meet the captain and the rest of the expedition team as we set sail for San Miguel Island and your adventure truly begins.

Our first adventure takes us to the tropical paradise of San Miguel Island where we will aim to discover the unspoiled beauty of Halea Nature Park, one of the Philippines’ best kept secrets. As we make our way to land accompanied by an incredible cultural display delivered by enthusiastic locals, we will decide whether to spend the day beachcombing along this stunning stretch of white sand, or getting up close to diverse corals, Yellow-lipped Sea Krait, Anemone Fish, Pipefish and juvenile Blacktip Reef Sharks with an exploration of the area’s incredible underwater world. If time permits, you may also enjoy a visit to a local village to learn about the customs, heritage and way of life here in this remote area.

This morning you will be encouraged to rise early with cameras in hand as we arrive at Bohol Island and watch as the sun rises over the island’s famous Chocolate Hills. As we make our way to land, there will be an opportunity to walk up the 200 steps that lead to the viewing platform where incredible vistas of this marvellous are dubbed the “Eighth Wonder of the World” awaits. Other highlights today may include an exploration of the lush countryside and famed cacao farms, a visit to the coral stone Baclayon Church and National Cultural Treasure, and a trip to a Tarsier Sanctuary to see the world’s second smallest primate the tiny and unique Philippine Tarsier. There will also be chances to sample The Pastry Capital of Bohol’s world famous Broa or Lady Fingers before we make our way to the pristine white sand beaches of Balicasag Island for an afternoon of relaxation. An unforgettable snorkelling excursion will be offered here, giving you the chance to experience an incredible underwater world where impressive coral gardens and underwater cliffs are simply teeming with colourful marine life including, if we are lucky, sea turtles.

Today’s stop brings us to the beautiful Bucas Grande Island where stunning white sand beaches combine with limestone cave systems, iron wood forests, lakes, waterfalls and elaborate coral gardens combine to create a wonderful backdrop to exploration. The famous 60-kilometre Sohoton Cove and National Park is a haven for exotic wildlife and we will spend some time searching for the Rufous Hornbills that are often spotted here as we explore this pristine tropical island paradise on foot and by Zodiac boat. We will also hope to explore the Tojoman Lagoon/ Sohoton Jellyfish Sanctuary where thousands of stingless jellyfish thrive, and the labyrinthine waterways and islets of the iconic Blue Lagoon where fantastic snorkelling and swimming opportunities await. Later today we will hope to head towards nearby Cinnamon Island to sample the famous cinnamon tea with the locals.

Berthing at the bustling, cosmopolitan harbour of Bitung, Manado city, we head for the nearby wildlife-filled jungles of Tangkoko Nature Reserve one of Indonesia’s oldest reserves. Spanning some 8,800 hectares from beaches to the peak of Tangkoko Mountain the reserve is a haven for endemic flora and fauna. Exploring the lowland tropical rainforest with local guides, we’ll be looking for the critically endangered Crested Black Macaque, known for their distinctive pink rumps and jet-black mohawks, symbol of Bitung and smallest primate in the world the saucer-eyed Tarsier and Sulawesi Bear Cuscus. For birders there’s the Knobbed Hornbills, Kingfishers, Sulawesi Myna, Lorikeets and Maleo birds, other flying highlights include the brightly-coloured Forester Moth and the Draco Flying Lizard or Sulawesi Lined Gliding Lizard.

Today it’s time to tick off a bucket list experience as arrive in Gorontalo and make our way to the small seaside village of Botubarani to enjoy the unforgettable experience of swimming and snorkelling with whale sharks! As well as being one of Indonesia’s top 4 places to swim with whale sharks, Gorontalo, which sits on the equator, combines rich history with pristine beaches and a mountainous landscape dotted with 500-year old Portuguese forts. The area is a delight to explore and the afternoon will be free for you to do so at your leisure.

This morning we will uncover the hidden gem that is Seho Island—an unspoiled paradise seldom touched by wanderers. As we set foot on its shores, the allure of pristine sandy beaches merges seamlessly with the enchanting coral reefs, creating a haven where nature's wonders converge. Venture into the heart of the Island, where lush, wildlife-filled hills and jungles await your exploration. Choose your own path through jungle hikes, leading to encounters with exotic birds and elusive wildlife. Alternatively, become a beachcomber or dive into the vibrant underwater world, surrounded by a breathtaking tapestry of multi-coloured soft corals.

Later, we'll set sail to the quaint township of Bobong on Taliabu Island. Here, immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture as we navigate through bustling markets and aromatic spice plantations. Experience the rich tapestry of traditions that define this tropical outpost, leaving you with memories as vibrant and diverse as the landscapes we traverse.

Today’s adventures take us to the captivating and off-the-beaten-path Buru Island, situated at the crossroads of the biogeographic zones of Australia and Asia, where we will step ashore to discover the hidden gems of this picturesque island that boasts a remarkable diversity of fauna. A significant number of bird and mammal species can be seen here that are found nowhere else on earth, with 10 endemic bird species and 4 endemic mammals as well as a number of near-endemic species. Accompanied by your team of expert naturalists and guides, the morning will be spent traversing through the lush forests and along the remote shores in pursuit of elusive wildlife including the Blue-fronted Lorikeet and much more. There will also be chance to experience the hospitality of local communities as we enjoy some village visits.

Banda Neira, under consideration for World Heritage status, served as the epicentre of Spice Islands trade and boasts rich biodiversity. The main island in a cluster of ten, it was once the exclusive nutmeg source. The town features 17th-century European relics, including the five-sided Fort Belgica overlooking the harbour. Nearby, the active volcano Gunung Banda Api hosts diverse wildlife. Beneath the waters, the Coral Triangle's influence is evident, with vibrant coral fields teeming with marine life. Our visit includes village tours and observing the famous Kora Kora canoes of Banda in action.

The crowning jewel in the Kei Archipelago in the southeastern chain of the Maluku Islands, the secret paradise of Kei Kecil Island will provide the perfect backdrop to our final full day of land exploration. Today you will discover some of Indonesia’s finest beaches where crystal clear turquoise waters lap along powdery sands to create a picture-postcard setting, along with palm-fringed tropical jungles and spectacular coral reefs. We will make our way to Ngurbloat Beach, the most well-known and picturesque of all the beaches, to enjoy some thrilling snorkelling experiences searching some of the world’s most biologically rich waters for sightings of Nudibranches, cephalopods, Dogtooth Tuna, Manta Rays and much more.

Day 13 will be spent at sea sailing towards Australia. Take time to reflect on your adventures as you join your expedition team and fellow travellers for a recap and special farewell dinner celebration.

On day 14, arrival into Darwin, Australia’s ‘northern gateway’ famous for its glittering harbour, signals the end of your expedition and it will be time to disembark and bid a fond farewell to your expedition team and fellow travellers. A complimentary transfer to the airport or downtown will be provided.