PHILIPPINES
ENCHANTING REEFS & EXOTIC CRITTERS
13-21 APR 2028 • 09 DAYS • 14 GUESTS
Discover an idyllic paradise in the Philippines, where world-class diving and snorkelling, extraordinary marine biodiversity and warm Filipino hospitality combine to create an unforgettable tropical adventure. Based at the award-winning Atmosphere Resort on the island of Negros Oriental, this expedition explores the vibrant reefs and volcanic black-sand slopes of the Bohol Sea, renowned for its excellent muck diving and snorkeling.
Check into your beautifully appointed premium pool suite at the Atmosphere Resort, your sanctuary for the next 6 days. Revel in the luxury of your own private infinity pool. Just a few fin kicks from your suite, explore the resort’s magnificent house reef. Marvel at the incredible shallow coral gardens teeming with life, a testament to the ocean's hidden beauty and resilience. This underwater haven is a snorkeler's dream, offering easy access to a world brimming with colourful coral, turtles and schools of tropical fish.
Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Bohol Sea, teeming with some of the planet's most fascinating marine life. Encounter an impressive array of sea creatures, from the cryptic frogfish, a variety of sea horses and pipefish, to mesmerizing mimic and blue-ringed octopus, flamboyant cuttlefish, and an incredible diversity of invertebrates, including vibrant nudibranchs and colourful crustaceans. A short boat ride takes you to world-famous Apo Island, a marine sanctuary revered for its breathtaking wall dives, swirling with schools of barracuda, jacks, snapper, and the opportunity to glide alongside graceful sea turtles. Head to the island of Cebu for unforgettable in-water encounters with whale sharks, snorkelling alongside these gentle giants as they glide gracefully through the clear tropical waters while feeding.
After days filled with underwater exploration, unwind at the resort’s acclaimed spa and wellness centre nestled amidst lush tropical gardens. Indulge in treatments that blend ancient traditions with modern wellness techniques, all designed to rejuvenate your body and mind. Venture beyond the resort and explore the vibrant local Malatpay market and quaint villages of the island by tuk-tuk. Greeted by the warm smiles of the locals, catch a glimpse into the traditional Filipino island lifestyle.
Extend the adventure by joining the Malapascua Post-Extension, where 3 days of diving offer unforgettable encounters with the island's legendary thresher sharks, complemented by vibrant coral reefs, fascinating macro life and a rich diversity of pelagic species.
HIGHLIGHTS·
Search for extraordinary macro life including hairy frogfish, mimic octopus, blue-ringed octopus, flamboyant cuttlefish, ghost pipefish and colorful nudibranchs.
Indulge in unparalleled luxury at one of the Philippines' most exquisite beach resorts.
Explore the resort’s spectacular house reef and marvel at the stunning shallow coral gardens.
Dive and snorkel the spectacular Apo Island Marine Sanctuary, home to flourishing coral reefs, schooling barracuda, jacks, snapper and abundant sea turtles.
Snorkel alongside majestic whale sharks in the crystal clear waters of Cebu.
Unwind at the resort’s award-winning spa and wellness centre nestled amidst lush tropical gardens.
Stroll through vibrant markets and observe authentic Filipino village life.
Encounter the legendary pelagic thresher shark during unforgettable dives in Malapascua
RESERVE MY SPACE & ENQUIRIES
You've got that "I don't want to miss out" feeling for a good reason. Our expeditions are life changers and we have a solid following of Wild Earth Explorers who love returning to adventure with us. Don't hesitate in reserving your space today.
Post - Extension - Malapascua Thresher Sharks
21-25 APR 2028 ● 5 DAYS ● 14 GUESTS
Complete your Philippines adventure with an unforgettable extension to the idyllic island of Malapascua, one of the world's premier destinations to encounter the elusive Pelagic Thresher Shark. Following a relaxing overnight stay at the luxurious Shangri-La Mactan Resort, journey north through rural Cebu before crossing by ferry to this laid-back tropical island fringed by white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Over 3 days of diving, experience thrilling early morning encounters with graceful Thresher Sharks at Monad Shoal, explore vibrant coral reefs, and discover some of the Philippines' finest macro life. Depending on conditions, we'll also visit spectacular Gato Island, renowned for its dramatic underwater tunnel, resident White-tip Reef Sharks, sea snakes, colourful reef fish and excellent snorkeling.
Non-divers can soak up Malapascua's relaxed island atmosphere, swim from pristine beaches, indulge in spa treatments, or join the Gato Island excursion for an exceptional day of snorkeling. We'll conclude our adventure with a special farewell dinner before returning to Cebu for onward flights.
“Thomas & Sabine, many THANKS for a wonderful, delightful and adventurous trip in the Philippines. The diving was incredible and the whale sharks were really cool!!! Really appreciate your attention to detail and trip planning. ”
© GOOGLE EARTH
ITINERARY OVERVIEW
PHILIPPINES - ENCHANTING REEFS & EXOTIC CRITTERS
13-21 APR, 2028 ● 09 DAYS ● 14 GUESTS
Day 01 | Apr 13 Depart Home / En route to Manila, Philippines
Day 02 | Apr 14 Depart Koror from Palau Expedition / Arrive in Manila / Overnight Manila Hilton
Day 03 | Apr 15 Fly to Dumaguete / Aftrenoon Dive & Snorkel / Cocktail party & Welcome Dinner
Day 04-07 | Apr 16-19 Dive and Snorkel Dauin & Apo Island / Malatpay Market & Island Exploration
Day 08 | Apr 20 Whale shark snorkel / Transfer to Cebu / Fly home via Manila or overnight at the Shangri-La Cebu & join the Post-Extension to Malapascua
Day 09 | Apr 21 Arrive home
POST-EXT - MALAPASCUA THRESHER SHARKS
21-25 APR, 2028 ● 05 DAYS ● 14 GUESTS
Day 01 | Apr 21 Travel from Cebu to Malapascua / Afternoon dive
Day 02-03 | Apr 22-23 Enjoy 2 full days of 3-tank diving in search of Thresher Sharks and exploring the tropical reefs and muck sites of Malapascua
Day 04 | Apr 24 Morning 2-tank dive / Afternoon at leisure / Sunset cocktails and farewell dinner
Day 05 | Apr 25 Transfer to Cebu / Fly home via Manila
BROCHURE COMING SOON
We're putting the finishing touches on our 2028 Philippines expedition brochure, including final pricing and trip details.
We look forward to sharing this incredible adventure with you soon!
COMBINE for the ULTIMATE EXPERIENCE
PALAU
MAR 30-APR 15, 2028 • 17 DAYS • 14 GUESTS
Complete the ultimate Pacific diving and snorkeling adventure by seamlessly combining our Palau and Philippines Expeditions. Carefully timed to flow effortlessly from one to the next, these back-to-back journeys showcase two of the Indo-Pacific's most celebrated marine destinations. Begin in legendary Palau, where dramatic walls, blue holes, vibrant coral gardens and current-swept channels are home to sharks, manta rays, turtles and immense schools of fish. Explore iconic dive sites including Blue Corner and German Channel, kayak amongst the spectacular limestone Rock Islands and discover the remarkable marine biodiversity that has made Palau one of the world's premier diving destinations.
ATMOSPHERE RESORT
Nestled on the tranquil shores of Negros Oriental, Atmosphere Resort & Spa is one of the Philippines' finest luxury dive resorts, seamlessly blending contemporary tropical elegance with warm Filipino hospitality.
Surrounded by lush tropical gardens and overlooking the calm waters of the Bohol Sea, the resort provides the perfect base for exploring Dauin's world-renowned muck diving and the spectacular reefs of nearby Apo Island.
Designed with relaxation and wellness in mind, Atmosphere offers an exceptional range of facilities, including multiple swimming pools, an award-winning spa, yoga pavilion, outdoor fitness centre, gourmet dining and direct access to a vibrant house reef just meters from the beach.
Each spacious Premium Pool Suite features a stylish bedroom and living area, elegant indoor and outdoor bathrooms, a private courtyard with plunge pool, and a shaded terrace perfect for relaxing between dives. Combining contemporary comfort with natural surroundings, these beautifully appointed suites offer the ideal retreat after a day of exploring the incredible underwater world of the Philippines.
OCEAN VIDA BEACH RESORT - MALAPASCUA
Perfectly positioned on the powder-white sands of Bounty Beach, Ocean Vida Beach Resort offers the ideal blend of comfort, convenience and laid-back island charm. Just steps from the turquoise waters and home to one of Malapascua's premier dive centres, the resort is perfectly located for exploring the island's world-famous Thresher Shark dive sites, vibrant coral reefs and exceptional macro habitats.
The Deluxe Sea View Rooms are just steps from the sand, offering modern comforts in a relaxed tropical setting. Each room features contemporary furnishings, air-conditioning, an ensuite bathroom and a private balcony or terrace where you can unwind after a day of diving.
Spend your days diving some of the Philippines' most celebrated underwater landscapes before returning to relax beneath swaying coconut palms, enjoy a refreshing drink at the beachfront restaurant and bar, or take a leisurely stroll along the island's idyllic shoreline. With its welcoming atmosphere, attentive Filipino hospitality and unbeatable beachfront setting, Ocean Vida provides the perfect base for your Malapascua adventure.
WILD EARTH LEADERS
Sabine Templeton
Expedition Leader, Trip Designer, Fish Geek, Underwater Naturalist & Conservation Biologist
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PHOTO CREDIT © Thomas Baechtold, Sabine Templeton, Atmosphere Resort, Ocean Vida Beach Resort, Canva & Adobe Stock