On arrival into El Nido Airport, you’ll be met and transferred to Seda Lio, our base for the week. Once you’ve checked in and settled, we’ll hold a welcome meeting and safety briefing before heading into the water for an easy acclimatisation swim at Seda Beach (Lio)—a perfect first dip to get comfortable with the conditions. We’ll then head back to the hotel to relax before our first dinner together.

We start early and head by boat from Seda Lio to the iconic Big Lagoon. Arriving first thing means calm water and far fewer visitors—ideal for an unrushed early-morning lagoon swim.

Afterwards, we travel on to Shimizu Island and begin our main swim of the day: Shimizu to Inatula, following dramatic shoreline features and clear-water reefs.

Lunch is taken on board, then we finish with an afternoon swim along Miniloc’s north-west coast, a gorgeous stretch known for pristine reef just below the surface. Later, we return to Seda Lio.

This morning we boat across to Dilumacad (Helicopter Island) for a standout coastal loop-style swim, with lush vegetation above and steep cliff faces dropping into deep blue water.

After a picnic lunch on/near Entalula, we reposition and enjoy a second swim of the day: Entalula Island coastal, where we’ll explore bright coral, rocky edges, and calm bays. We then head back to Seda Lio for the evening.

Today we venture further out to Matinloc and swim through the spectacular Tapiutan Strait, finishing into Secret Bay. Expect towering limestone walls, clear water, and some of the most impressive scenery of the week.

We return to Seda Lio for lunch, and the afternoon is free to explore, enjoy the beach, or simply recharge before dinner.

We head to the hidden gem of the archipelago: Secret Lagoon, then swim from Secret Lagoon to Miniloc, a beautiful route that blends dramatic rock formations with vivid shallows.

Lunch is planned on board. In the afternoon we travel to Panuanen and swim to Snake Island, followed by time on land for a hike on Snake Island (famous for its sandbar views). We return to Seda Lio late afternoon.

This morning we travel to Cadlao Island for a longer, scenic swim along its quieter coastline. Cadlao’s peaks and tucked-away bays make it a wild-feeling contrast to the lagoons, with excellent chances to spot interesting marine life in the shallows.

We return to Seda Lio for lunch, then head back out for a final afternoon swim: Small Lagoon to Miniloc, a brilliant end-of-week style route through classic Bacuit scenery. Back to Seda Lio for the evening.

We finish with a relaxed farewell swim at Seda Beach in the early morning, then it’s time for your transfer back to El Nido Airport for your journey home or onward travels.

We have given this trip a ‘Moderate’ grading. Most swimmers comfortable in the open water will be able to take part and enjoy one of these trips.

Swimming Distances

*Please note that these swims are an example of what may take place during your trip and should be used as a guide only. Actual swim locations and distances will vary according to local weather and swim conditions.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming in the open water is a fantastic experience, however you should be aware that certain marine life such as jellyfish, plankton, sea lice, sea urchins and coral could be present during the swims and may cause some discomfort. In all cases we will work on reducing your contact with these creatures and that any interactions are managed safely. If you suffer from anaphylaxis, please consult the office prior to booking.

Walking Distances

Whilst there aren’t many walks on this trip, there is an optional Jungle Hike which takes between 20 and 35 minutes depending on the speed of your group.

Walking Conditions

The hike is a rocky route over a low ridge at the back of the resort then down the trail to a Cove where we meet the boat then snorkel over the reef. There is a rope guide rail most of the way. We suggest shoes or sandals rather than flip flops for the hike. The hike is optional, guests will be able to travel to the snorkel spot via boat.

Temperatures

*Please note that these temperatures are indicative and should be used as a guide only.

Weather Caveat

For safety reasons, we rely on decent weather conditions when carrying out our swims. As a consequence, open water swimming holidays require a certain degree of on-trip flexibility which can result in changes to the planned itinerary. These changes often add a touch of uniqueness to your trip and will be communicated to you by your SwimTrek guides as quickly as possible.

Group Size

This trip has a maximum group size of 15. The group will be split into a maximum of three groups, based on speed, with each group being accompanied by their own safety escort.

Boat Support

Boat support on this trip includes one outrigger vessel (Banca) a speedboat and two kayaks crewed by local pilots and your SwimTrek guides. Please note that this boat support is subject to change without notice and cannot be guaranteed.

Extra Activities

Throughout the course of your trip, you as a swimmer will also have the opportunity to take part in a number of extra activities before or after our organised daily swims - some at extra charge. These activities include a menu of treatments in the spa (including Asian, European, and international face and body treatments). Participation in these activities is optional and needs to be booked in advance. This trip is also ideal for non-swimming partners, who will be able to enjoy the proximity to El Nido, and also the 5* resort of Seda Lio whilst our swimmers are out exploring the beauty of the Bacuit archipelago.

Equipment Checklist

For your basic, essential packing list, please visit our Packing List page on the website. For additional, location specific items, please see the information below.

SwimTrek will provide water and electrolytes at every location and refill your bottles.

Towels are provided at the hotel so packing one isn’t essential.

As SwimTrekkers come from all over the world, and join our swimming holidays in numerous destinations, we don't currently offer flights as part of our SwimTrek packages. We do however want to do as much as we can to ensure that our guests get the best deals when travelling to one of our trips so check out SwimTrek's tips to help you get the best deals for your flights page on the website.

Flights into the Philippines are widely available from most international destinations. Due to its remote location, upon arrival in the Philippines, a domestic flight is required to reach Palawan.

As our recommended option, the fastest and most direct way to reach the start of your trip is to fly into Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL), commonly known as ‘NAIA’ or Manila airport, before catching an onward flight to El Nido Airport (ENI). You will be met at El Nido Airport on Day 1 by a hotel representative, for a road transfer to our accommodation: Seda Lio.

Alternative international routes include flights into Cebu (CEB). Domestically you can fly into Puerto Princesa airport (PPS) on Palawan Island. Then make your own way to Seda Lio.

Flights to El Nido Airport, Palawan

Airline ‘AirSWIFT’ offers daily flights from Manila (Domestic Terminal 4) to El Nido, Palawan. Travel time is approximately 1 hour 25 minutes. Light aircraft have strict luggage allowances so you should ensure you are familiar with these and stay within these limits. In order to arrive for the SwimTrek welcome meeting, please choose a flight that will arrive by 14:00. Please visit www.air-swift.com for further information on direct flights from a number of airports in The Philippines (including the main international airports - Manila and Cebu) into El Nido. To book, please contact AirSWIFT directly via info@air-swift.com.

Return SwimTrek Transfer to El Nido Airport

At the end of your trip, you will be transferred back to El Nido Airport, where your trip ends. Please note that this transfer is included in the cost of your trip.

Seda Lio in El Nido, northern Palawan, is an ideal base for adventurous swimmers looking to explore the Bacuit Archipelago while enjoying the ease of a mainland resort. Set on the wide, palm-lined sweep of Lio Beach, it offers a relaxed coastal atmosphere backed by green hills and forest, with calm nearshore water that’s perfect for an early dip or a gentle acclimatisation swim.

From here, our swim days head straight out into the iconic seascapes that define El Nido—towering limestone cliffs, hidden coves, and clear turquoise lagoons—before returning to the comfort of a beachside retreat. Between swims, there’s plenty of time to unwind on the sand, enjoy the shoreline, and make the most of the hotel facilities and the laid-back Lio area.

Room types not advertised

Please note that there are other room types available at this accommodation. If you are interested in upgrading to a room type we don't have listed, please contact the Customer Team: referencing the trip name, date and room type you're interested in.

If this trip or departure date is selling fast, we suggest you call us to try and hold your space whilst the request is on going to avoid disappointment.

Pre/Post Trip Accommodation and Trip Extension Options

If you would like to book additional nights’ accommodation at the start or end of your trip at Seda Lio, please contact them directly via email, address to Francis at lio@sedahotels.com

Food and Drink

All breakfasts and lunches are included for the duration of your stay at Seda Lio. Please note that on two days, lunch will be a packed lunch from the hotel, served on board as a buffet. Non Swimming guests can still enjoy the hotel restaurant whilst your Swimmers are exploring the peninsula.

For more information, please visit our Food and Drink page on the website.

For more information on any of the following sections please visit the Travel Advice page of our website.

Money, Extra Expenses and Tipping

The local currency in the Philippines is the Philippine Peso (PHP). While USD are widely accepted, the conversion rate when in the Philippines is not as favourable as using local currency, so you may prefer to exchange some PHP before you travel. Debit and credit cards are not widely accepted in the Philippines and it is suggested that you carry enough cash with you for your daily expenses.

All visitors to El Nido are required to pay an environmental fee of 200PHP per adult for the duration of stay. This fee is collected by the Municipality of El Nido for various conservation projects and is paid at the resorts upon check-out.

You should bring extra money with you to cover items such as meals not already included in your package, drinks, entertainment, souvenirs, etc.

In some countries, tipping (gratuities) is not part of the culture - in others it has become an expected norm. We believe that tipping is done entirely at your own discretion. If you have been provided with excellent service it may be something you wish to do. Your SwimTrek Guides can advise on local norms for service providers like boat crew, waiters or taxis. Nothing is expected for your SwimTrek Guides but many groups like to present something to the Guides at the end of the trip.

Seda Lio do not allow personal tipping as they have a centralised tip deposit box at the front desk. They would encourage any generous guests to make use of this centralised box instead.

Responsible Travel

SwimTrek is conscious of the importance of protecting the world’s natural wonders. We are acutely aware of our responsibility to not only take care of the natural environments which we are lucky enough to explore, but also to educate our guests about the importance of conservation efforts and responsible tourism. It’s for this reason that we have worked so closely with our partners to ensure that our trips are conducted in the most responsible and sustainable way possible, working tirelessly to minimise the impact of our presence on local marine life and the natural habitat.

For more information, please visit our Responsible Travel page on the website.

Passports and Visas

Non-residents of The Philippines require a full passport to enter the country, which should be valid for six months beyond the expected length of stay. Visitors can enter the Philippines without a visa for an initial period of 30 days. If you are intending to stay longer, it is possible to obtain a tourist visa from the Philippine Embassy before you travel, which will allow an initial 59 day stay.

Please note that visa regulations are subject to change and it is important that you check your own visa requirements prior to travel.

eTravel Pass

You must complete an eTravel process with the Philippines government prior to your arrival. This process must be done within 72 hours of your departure for Manila, i.e. it can’t be done yet; it must wait until the 72 hour period prior to departure. You will need to create an account on the Philippines government’s eTravel web portal, which you then use to submit your arrival details. You can set up the account now, then go back to the portal within the 72 hour period to submit your arrival details.

When you’ve done that, you’ll receive a QR code which you may need to show prior to boarding your aircraft departure from your home, and which you will need on arrival in Manila. This process costs nothing. Here is the link to undergo that process etravel.gov.ph

Travel Insurance

We consider comprehensive travel insurance to be essential, and we strongly recommend that you purchase insurance which includes, but is not limited to, cover for illness, accident, emergency repatriation, ambulance, air ambulance, helicopter rescue services, cancellation, lost luggage and delays. Your travel insurance should also cover you for open water swimming and any other activity listed in your trip itinerary (including races and competitions, where applicable). Please read your policy details carefully and remember to take them with you on your trip for your own reference.

For further information, please visit our Travel Insurance page on the website.

Health Information and Recommended Vaccinations

Here at SwimTrek, we pride ourselves on our focus on safety and the well-being of all our guests. As we operate in some beautiful and remote locations medical facilities are not always easily accessible. SwimTrek Guides, and many staff working for our local partners, are first aid trained. However, we ask that you read our Travel Health page to ensure that you are informed about general Travel and Swim Health precautions.

Travel Plugs & Electricity

For a useful source of information on the different electrical outlets, electrical plugs, and electric sockets, please visit www.worldstandards.eu.

Plans change but you can book with confidence. SwimTrek's flexible booking options include:

✅ Free Trip Changes ✅ Refund Guarantee ✅ Financial Protection

Flexible Booking Details

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