Philippines Expedition 23 Day Tour
Philippines Expedition 23 Day Tour
Philippines Expedition 23 Day Tour
23 Days Starting in Manila and ending in Boracay, Malay, Philippines
Visiting: Manila, Puerto Princesa, Port Barton, Palawan, El Nido, Coron, Coronado Beach, Moalboal, Cebu City, Bohol, Chocolate Hills, Boracay
Tour operator:
Tour code:
PH23EX
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
6 - 22
Age range:
18-45
Special diets catered:
Vegans, Meat, Vegetarians, Others: On Request
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
One Life Adventures is a premium youth operator, specialising in trips for travellers aged 18-45 years inclusive (at the time of travel). Experience everything that The Philippines has to offer on this Expedition length group tour. Jump on our West and East Philippines tours back to back with an included flight in between. It will be 3 and a half weeks of island bliss. Our 23 day Philippines Expedition tour will show you the unique corners of this island paradise. From the UNESCO-listed Underground River in Palawan to the shipwrecks of Coron, this journey balances cultural immersion, community projects, island hopping, and snorkelling in some of the world’s most beautiful locations. Highlights include camping on a private beach, witnessing the famous Sardine Run in Cebu, and discovering the iconic Chocolate Hills of Bohol. This extended tour offers a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and meaningful experiences in the heart of the Philippines.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Welcome To Manila
Location: Manila
Accommodation: Hostel
Accommodation Name: 4 Bed Dorms - Z Hostel (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
Arrive at any time in Manila and we will meet you at the airport. We take you through the winding streets to our boutique hostel in central Manila. Settle into your accommodation and in the evening join the rest of the group for a delicious welcome meal up on the rooftop terrace and enjoy a few drinks overlooking the Manila skyline.
Day 2 : To Palawan
Location: Puerto Princesa
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Twin/Double Rooms - Canvas Boutique Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We are heading to Palawan! Start your day with a leisurely breakfast, then take a short flight to Puerto Princesa. You'll have some free time to enjoy a refreshing swim in the pool, a relaxing massage or simply unwind. In the evening, we will dine at a local restaurant in this charming coastal city.
Day 3 : Unesco Underground River, Port Barton
Location: Port Barton
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Twin/Double Rooms - Elsa's Cottages (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
We have an early start as we head out to the UNESCO Underground River. We explore a portion of the accessible underground river by boat before stopping for lunch. Afterwards, we'll continue on a scenic drive to the remote and stunning Port Barton. Spend the afternoon sipping fresh coconuts on golden sand while listening to some island reggae in the background. Tonight we will sleep in traditional Filipino-style beach bungalows listening to the sound of the ocean.
Day 4 : Private Beach Camp! Snorkelling, Waterfall & School Visit
Location: Palawan
Accommodation: Camp
Accommodation Name: Private Beach Camp (2 Person Tents)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
For the next 2 days we get to experience the local island way of life, with our Islander Experience. After breakfast, we join our local guides on their boat for 2 days of exploring islands and the surrounding areas of Port Barton.
Your first stop will be making a special visit to one of four local schools, where you'll have the chance to interact with the students and see firsthand the impact of your support. We encourage guests to bring school supplies, which can either be pre-brought or purchased the day before in Puerto Princesa. Guests can also make monetary donations that will go towards things like building kitchens, canteens, and sporting equipment. If the school is on holiday or it's a weekend, we'll visit the local day care center instead. Please note the school visit may take place on day 4 or day 5.
In the evening we get together around the fire at our very own private beach camp. Perfect! Don’t worry about food either as our local guides will have everything covered with feasts of grilled fish, pork, rice, vegetables and fruit. In the evening you will sleep in tents directly on the beach in paradise.
Day 5 : Beach Camp, More Snorkelling, Waterfalls & Fun
Location: Port Barton
Accommodation: Hotel, Camp, Homestay, HomestayHomestay
Accommodation Name: Twin/Double Rooms - Elsa's Cottages (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today's day two of your island hopping adventures. You'll continue to enjoy snorkelling around coral reefs & alongside turtles, shower in jungle waterfalls, exploring tiny islands and just taking it all in.
Please note - activities on day 4 and 5 may alternate depending on each departure.
Day 6 : To El Nido, Paradise
Location: Port Barton, El Nido
Accommodation: Hostel
Accommodation Name: 4 Bed Dorms - Spin Designer Hostel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, take some time to appreciate your spectacular surroundings before we then hop into a van and head up on our way to El Nido. When we arrive you will see why Palawan was named the most beautiful island in the world. Surrounded by islands and towering cliffs, El Nido is a secret paradise we are lucky enough to share. Once you pick your jaws up off the ground, we will check in to the funkiest hostel in Palawan. This slick hostel looks more like a boutique hotel than a backpackers! Settle in, then head to our favourite beach restaurant in the evening for food and fun with your One Life family.
Day 7 : El Nido, Filipino Cultural Day
Location: El Nido
Accommodation: Hostel
Accommodation Name: 4 Bed Dorms - Spin Designer Hostel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Get ready to immerse yourself in unique Filipino culture! We'll take a short jungle hike to learn about the flora and fauna that grow in the lush rainforest before arriving at our exclusive jungle hut for a fun-filled day. Today's activities range from cooking authentic Filipino food, climbing coconut trees, traditional Filipino stick fighting, coconut shaving, learning Filipino dances and children's games, coconut leaf weaving, and more. Afterwards, you can take the optional zipline and enjoy a relaxing time on the stunning Las Cabanas Beach. It's an exhilarating adventure of flying between two islands over the ocean, followed by a day of relaxation that you're not likely to forget!
Day 8 : El Nido, Island Hopping
Location: El Nido
Accommodation: Hostel
Accommodation Name: 4 Bed Dorms - Spin Designer Hostel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
This morning we board our boat to take us around all the spectacular, tiny islands in the bay. You will explore the most beautiful islands and the bluest waters you have ever seen. Snorkel with your new friends and feast on the freshly prepared food on board. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Day 9 : El Nido Town, Canopy Walk & Massage
Location: El Nido
Accommodation: Hostel
Accommodation Name: 4 Bed Dorms - Spin Designer Hostel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we do a short canopy walk up to the famous cliffs overlooking El Nido to get the best view of incredible bay and Cadlao Island. After all that exercise, you’ll need some chill-out time! That’s why we include a traditional Filipino massage near the beach to help ease those muscles. Take your time today to relax and enjoy your surroundings.
Day 10 : On To Coron!
Location: Coron
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Twin/Double Rooms – Acacia Garden Inn (or similiar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Say goodbye to those only doing 10 days, and join the rest of the lucky ones on our Coron extension! After breakfast pack your things and hop on the fast ferry to Coron. Check into our accomodation and take the evening to explore Coron town and the night life of live music and street food.
Day 11 : Coron Island, Free Day To Explore
Location: Coron
Accommodation: Hostel
Accommodation Name: Twin/Double Rooms – Acacia Garden Inn (or similiar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today is a day for you to spend at your leisure! Relax at the accommodation or book an optional extra. You can hike Mount Tapyas, get some Scuba Diving in or go on an extra island hopping tour- the choice is yours.
Day 12 : Coron Island, Snorkelling, Bonfire, Hot Springs & More
Location: Coronado Beach
Accommodation: Camp
Accommodation Name: Multishare Tents/Huts - Pass Island (or similiar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Spend the day snorkelling in Coron’s top destinations. Pass by beautiful landscapes and beaches while snorkelling through the waters.
Explore the Lusong Gunboat Ship Wreck, a World War II shipwreck now transformed into an underwater haven for snorkellers. As you explore the sunken vessel, you’ll witness a unique mix of history and nature, with corals and marine creatures making the shipwreck their home.
Tonight you will spend the night in Pass Island and enjoy a bonfire with sunset cocktails.
Please note the activities on day 12 and 13 may alternate depending on each departure.
Day 13 : Coron Island, Snorkelling, Hot Springs & More
Location: Coron
Accommodation: Hotel, Camp
Accommodation Name: Twin/Double Rooms – Acacia Garden Inn (or similiar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, you’ll continue your adventure on the stunning Coron Island, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and crystal-clear waters. Explore the vibrant Coral Garden, and admire the colorful marine life and coral formations.
After a morning of underwater exploration, unwind and rejuvenate at the Maquinit Hot Springs.
Please note the activities on day 12 and 13 may alternate depending on each departure.
Day 14 : On To Cebu!
Location: Coron
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Twin/Double Rooms – Hop Inn (or similar)
Today it's time to head to Philippines East where the second part of your tour will begin. Upon arrival in Cebu, you will be greeted at the airport. After settling into your accommodation, you can spend the day exploring Cebu City or take some time to rest and refresh. In the evening, you will join the rest of the group for a delicious welcome meal at one of our favorite spots.
Day 15 : Moalboal Bound: Snorkel Amongst Thousands Of Sardines
Location: Moalboal
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Twin/Double Rooms – Pescadores Suites (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Moalboal Bound! On the way, you will take a scenic drive through Cebu’s countryside. Your first stop will be at the beautiful Simala Shrine to experience Filipino culture and explore the stunning architecture and religious significance of the shrine.
Afterwards, upon arriving in Moalboal, you will check into your beachfront accommodation. You will have some free time to grab lunch and then you will head to the famous natural phenomenon – the Sardine Run for snorkelling. Get ready to snorkel amongst thousands of sardines, and if you are lucky, you may even spot a turtle or two!
Day 16 : Cebu: Osmena Peak Sunrise & Chasing Waterfalls
Location: Cebu City
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Twin/Double Rooms – Pescadores Suites (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you will have an early start as you will head to Osmena Peak to catch the sunrise. It’s a short hike to the top where you can settle in and wait for the sunrise while enjoying the unique jagged hills and surrounding landscape.
After sunrise, you will make your way to a tropical swimming hole where you will meet a local family that will prepare your breakfast. You will spend the next few hours swimming and enjoying the tropical swimming hole before heading back to Moalboal.
The rest of the day is free for you to relax, explore, or seek an adrenaline rush by opting to do canyoneering.
Day 17 : To Bohol
Location: Bohol
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Twin/Double Rooms – Abraham Bohol (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, you will start your journey to Bohol. You will take the scenic route back to Cebu City and then take a ferry to Bohol, where you can relax and enjoy the sea views. In the afternoon, you will arrive at our accommodation. You can unwind by the pool or have a cocktail at Alona Beach, known for its stunning sunsets.
Day 18 : Countryside Bohol: Chocolate Hills, Tarsiers & Kayaks
Location: Chocolate Hills
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Twin/Double Rooms – Abraham Bohol (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Get ready to start your journey across Bohol’s breathtaking countryside. Your first stop is at the iconic Chocolate Hills, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the area. Then, continue your journey through the Mahogany Man-made Forest, a serene and picturesque road lined with towering mahogany trees.
Soon after, you will reach the Tarsier Sanctuary, where you will be able to observe these tiny primates in their natural habitat. Enjoy lunch at an open-air restaurant overlooking the Loboc River. After lunch, get ready to make a splash and connect with nature by stand-up paddle boarding or kayaking down the Loboc River. Here, you will be surrounded by lush greenery, tropical vegetation, and riverbanks rich with coconut palms.
Finish the day with a dessert-making workshop where you will learn how to make delicious traditional Filipino desserts.
Day 19 : Bohol: School Visit And Virgin Island Sunset Tour
Location: Bohol
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Twin/Double Rooms – Abraham Bohol (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today, you will visit a nearby school to spend time interacting with the local students. You will have the unique opportunity to engage in conversations, learn about their daily activities and education, and take a tour of their classrooms.
In the afternoon, you will go on a sunset tour around some of the most spectacular tropical waters. You will stop off to snorkel amongst the coral reefs and marine life, as Bohol is known for its vibrant underwater world. In the late afternoon, you will arrive at Virgin Island, a magical white sandbar, in time for the sunset, where you can watch the sun dip below the horizon.
In the evening, you will enjoy a traditional Filipino ‘boodle fight’ for dinner, a communal meal with various Filipino dishes served on banana leaves. Have a few cocktails and enjoy one of those ‘life is good’ moments with your One Life family.
Day 20 : To Boracay: Explore The Island & Sunset Cruise
Location: Boracay
Accommodation: Hostel
Accommodation Name: Mixed room: 6 Share Dorm – Kommons Hostel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, you will embark on an adventure to Boracay, renowned for its pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Your journey begins with a flight to Caticlan Airport, followed by a short trike ride to the ferry terminal, and then a brief 10-minute public ferry ride to Boracay. A car will pick you up and take you to your accommodation where you will be staying for the next three nights.
While Boracay is famous for its main beach, it also boasts numerous hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Freshen up and later in the evening, you will regroup for a sunset sailing excursion, promising unforgettable views and cherished moments.
Day 21 : Boracay: Cultural Day
Location: Boracay
Accommodation: Hostel
Accommodation Name: Mixed room: 6 Share Dorm – Kommons Hostel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, you will take a short ferry over to the mainland island of Malay, where you will visit the Motag Living Museum. This is a One Life exclusive and a one-of-a-kind cultural experience that showcases the traditional lifestyles of the locals in Caticlan. Dive deep into what it means to be Filipino and interact with the locals who are proud to show you the real side of rural Filipino life.
You will return to Boracay in the afternoon. Spend the rest of the day on the amazing White Beach, grab an optional massage, or get a kayak and explore the clear waters.
Day 22 : Boracay: Hop On & Off Bus & Massage
Location: Boracay
Meals Included: Breakfast, Mixed room: 6 Share Dorm – Kommons Hostel (or similar)
Take your time and savour a leisurely morning at your own pace. In the afternoon, you will have the chance to share your adventures and discoveries. Embrace the opportunity to explore the lesser-known beaches in the area with your Hop on and Hop off bus pass. Whether you are drawn to secluded coves, hidden bays, or tranquil shores, there’s something magical waiting to be explored at every turn. Soak in the serenity of the coastline, listen to the gentle lapping of waves, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you.
Later in the day, you will set out to discover some of the island’s hidden treasures with your group. Picture yourself wandering along secluded beaches, discovering tiny islands, meandering through local villages, and soaking in the serene tropical landscapes. Finish the day by unwinding with a free massage.
Day 23 : Departure Day
Location: Boracay
Meals Included: Breakfast
Sadly, it’s time to bid farewell to this beautiful part of an amazing country. Hopefully, we will meet again, perhaps with new travel companions. After breakfast, the day is yours. You can choose to stay on in Boracay, or wrap up your three week dreamy Philippines holiday
What's Included
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Accommodation
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Airport Transfers at Destination
Only on day 1
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All Domestic Transportation (including internal flights)
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Entrance Fees
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Fully Guided
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Free Wi-Fi at Accommodation
What's Not Included
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Country Entry Visas
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Drinks with Meals
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International Travel
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Tipping and Gratuities
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Travel Insurance
Mode of Transport
All transport included - Jeepneys, Filipino trikes, buses, boats, ferry & domestic flights - airport pick up and transfers between tours are included.
Accommodation
22 nights of accomodation *Note for Single Upgrades: Night 11 & 12 will be a multishare beach hut due to single accommodation not being accessible at the Island Pass location
Check out our Q&As
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How long does it take to get to Coron on day 10?
We take a ferry from El Nido to Coron which will take approximately 5.5 hours.
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Where do we spend the first night of the tour?
We stay at the award winning Z Hostel in Makati.
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Is free Wi-Fi available in the accommodation used?
WiFi is available in all accommodation except the overnight beach camp and the cottages in Port Barton
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Can you get private rooms on this tour instead of dorms?
Absolutely, before you select your date on the “book now” page you can choose the Double/Twin Share or Single Upgrade option to have your own room. If you haven’t paid for this at the time of booking but want to request an upgrade, please let us know as soon as possible so we can check availability.
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Does it matter what time I leave on day 14?
As day 14 is departure day, you can depart at any time. We recommend getting a flight from Busuanga Airport and our tour guide will arrange your transport to the airport for you.
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I haven’t ever camped before. Can you tell me more about the beach camping?
Sleeping in a tent on the beach will be one of the most unique and incredible things you will get to experience. It is a private beach with a purpose-built shelter to protect you from the weather. Each tent comes with a mattress, pillow & sheet and can fit 2 people. There is nothing like waking up on a deserted island, watching the sunrise and going for a morning swim.
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What are the facilities like on our Island stay in Coron?
We will be staying in either huts or tents on the island, and have access to toilets and traditional Filipino bucket shower facilities. The huts are provided with fans and access to electricity.
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What is the age range of this tour?
We have an age range of 18 – 45 years of age. Most of our guests are aged between 21-35 years old are looking to experience our adventurous “flashpacking” style of travel. Our tours are perfect for people of different backgrounds to share travel experiences with like-minded fellow travellers.
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Can I bring a 25kg suitcase?
Please note that we have a 20kg limit on checked luggage on our domestic flight from Manila to Palawan, if you need to add extra at the airport you can do so but it can be very costly. We would recommend bringing a suitcase or backpack that weighs under 20kg.
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Can we swim with whale sharks on the tour?
The main opportunity to swim with whale sharks in the Philippines is located in Cebu which is a different island to Palawan and Coron where we visit on tour. While we don’t support or include whale shark swimming on tour, there are ethical opportunities within the Philippines and should you travel further around the country once the tour has finished your guide can help advise you on the best places to do so.
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I want to bring some camera equipment on tour, are there safe places like lockers in the accommodation?
There are lockers/safes in most locations but not all, we recommend bringing a padlock for your bag like you would when travelling in a normal situation anyway for that extra peace of mind.
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How much spending money do you recommend for this tour?
We recommend a minimum of $500 AUD for the full fourteen days, but it depends on what kind of spender you are. We include a spending guide in your welcome pack. You can withdraw from ATMs at various points throughout the tour, but we recommend withdrawing plenty of cash in Manila since you cannot rely on the ATMs in Palawan. This Cost of Living website gives accurate prices of all the basics in the Philippines, including food and alcohol.
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Do you include any meals on this tour?
Yes, we include 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 2 dinners.
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Does it matter what time I arrive on day 1 in order to be picked up from the airport?
You can arrive at any time on day 1, but if you arrive after 3pm your tour guide won’t be able to personally collect you. Instead they will arrange your car and meet you at the hostel for your first night.
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Can I get picked up from the airport if I arrive before day 1?
Unfortunately we only offer airport pick ups on day 1 of the tour, but we include very easy and straightforward instructions in your welcome pack to help you on getting from the airport to the first hostel.
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Can you cater for my dietary requirements on this trip?
Yes, we can cater for most dietary requirements. Please notify us prior to arriving on day 1 so we can arrange this for you.
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Should I bring hiking shoes?
There is a little walking involved in the Philippines but not much. Sandals and some trainers/running shoes would be fine.
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Where should I fly into?
Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL).
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Will I have the same tour guide throughout the tour?
We try our best to ensure you have the same tour guide for the full 14 days, however, sometimes there may be a change in guide at the end of the 10 day tour.
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I want to go diving in El Nido, is there the option to do it while on the tour?
Since dive boats usually head out early in the day and there’s only one free afternoon in El Nido, you would need to miss an included activity to participate in a diving trip. However there’s usually at least a few people from every tour who have a few days to spare at the end of the trip who stay in El Nido to go diving.
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Will I have time to go diving in Coron?
Yes! We have a free day in Coron and our tour guides can assist you in organizing any optional activities to do on this day such as diving.
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How big are your group sizes?
Our groups are capped at 22 people maximum.
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Do I have to have travel insurance to come on a tour?
Travel insurance on all One Life Adventures trips is compulsory and we will check for it on tour, if you do not have travel insurance when you arrive on your tour you will not be able to continue without purchasing it.
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What's the general age range on your tours?
We have an age range of 18 – 45 years of age. Most of our guests are aged between 21-35 years old are looking to experience our adventurous “flashpacking” style of travel. Our tours are perfect for people of different backgrounds to share travel experiences with like-minded fellow travellers.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes, we do. We cannot guarantee single sex rooming arrangements in multi-share accommodation (e.g. shared dormitory hostels), but twin share rooms will always be single sex.
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Free Date Changes
One Life Adventures allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 60 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
One Life Adventures allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform one life adventures, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
One Life Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 200 AUD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of one life adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.