Dreaming of turquoise waters, hidden lagoons, and powdery white sand beaches? Then El Nido, Palawan in the Philippines should be at the top of your travel list! And the best way to experience its magic is through island hopping. I’m here to give you the lowdown on everything you need to know to plan your perfect El Nido island hopping adventure.
El Nido is famous for its stunning limestone cliffs, secret beaches, and vibrant marine life. Forget crowded tourist traps – El Nido offers a more laid-back and adventurous vibe. Island hopping tours are the key to unlocking all this natural beauty, as many of the best spots are only accessible by boat.
Understanding El Nido Island Hopping Tours
In El Nido, island hopping tours are categorized into four main routes: Tour A, Tour B, Tour C, and Tour D. Each tour offers a different set of destinations, showcasing the diverse beauty of the Bacuit Bay archipelago. Let’s break them down:
Tour A: Lagoons and Beaches
Tour A is the most popular choice, especially for first-timers. It focuses on iconic lagoons and beautiful beaches. Expect to see:
- Small Lagoon: Explore this enchanting lagoon by kayak. Paddle through narrow openings to discover hidden corners and admire the stunning rock formations.
- Big Lagoon: As the name suggests, this lagoon is larger and offers breathtaking views. Swimming is a must!
- Secret Lagoon: Climb through a small opening in a rock wall to reveal this hidden gem.
- Shimizu Island: A great spot for snorkeling, with vibrant coral reefs and plenty of fish.
- 7 Commando Beach: Relax on the white sand, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and enjoy the stunning scenery.
Tour A is great for swimming, kayaking, and taking those postcard-perfect photos.
Tour B: Caves and Coves
Tour B offers a more relaxed and secluded experience, focusing on caves, coves, and unique rock formations. You might visit:
- Snake Island: A sandbar shaped like a snake, connecting two islands. Perfect for a leisurely stroll and photo ops.
- Pinagbuyutan Island: A towering limestone island with a beautiful beach.
- Entalula Island: A pristine beach with powdery white sand and clear turquoise waters.
- Cudugnon Cave: An archaeological site with historical significance. Legend says it was used as a hiding place during World War II.
- Cathedral Cave: A cave with a cathedral-like appearance, created by natural rock formations.
Tour B is perfect if you want to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet.
Tour C: Hidden Beaches and Snorkeling Spots
Tour C is all about discovering hidden beaches and incredible snorkeling spots. It’s a bit more adventurous and involves longer boat rides. Expect to see:
- Secret Beach: Accessible only by swimming through a small opening in a rock formation.
- Hidden Beach: Another secluded beach hidden from view.
- Matinloc Shrine: An abandoned shrine with stunning views of the surrounding islands.
- Star Beach: A popular snorkeling spot with diverse marine life.
- Helicopter Island (Dilumacad Island): Shaped like a helicopter when viewed from afar. Offers excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.
Tour C is a great choice for snorkeling enthusiasts and those seeking more secluded beaches.
Tour D: Island Beaches and Lagoons
Tour D focuses on exploring more distant islands and lagoons. This tour is less popular, but still offers beautiful scenery.
- Cadlao Lagoon: The largest lagoon in El Nido, surrounded by lush greenery.
- Paradise Beach: A secluded beach with crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand.
- Pasandigan Beach: Another beautiful beach on Cadlao Island.
- Natnat Beach: A remote beach with stunning views and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Bukal Island: A small island with a beautiful beach and a great spot for swimming.
Tour D is good if you want a quieter experience and to explore some of the less-visited areas.
Choosing the Right Tour for You
With four different tours to choose from, how do you decide which one is right for you? Here are some things to consider:
- Your Interests: Are you more interested in swimming in lagoons, exploring caves, snorkeling, or relaxing on beaches?
- Your Fitness Level: Some tours involve more swimming and walking than others.
- Your Budget: The prices of the tours are generally similar, but some include extra fees for kayaking or entrance fees to certain attractions.
- The Crowds: Tour A is the most popular, so expect larger crowds. Tour B and D tend to be less crowded. Tour C can vary depending on the season.
- Time of Year: Some tours might be affected by weather conditions, especially during the rainy season (June-September).
I recommend doing some research and reading reviews to see what other travelers have to say about each tour. You can also ask your hotel or a local tour operator for recommendations.
Booking Your El Nido Island Hopping Tour
You can book your island hopping tour in El Nido in a few different ways:
- Online: There are many online travel agencies that offer island hopping tours in El Nido. This is a convenient option, especially if you want to book in advance.
- Through Your Hotel: Most hotels in El Nido can arrange island hopping tours for their guests.
- At a Tour Operator: There are many tour operators in El Nido town that offer island hopping tours. You can walk around and compare prices and itineraries.
It’s a good idea to book your tour at least a day in advance, especially during peak season (November-May). Standard tours often include lunch, drinking water, and snorkeling gear. Double-check what’s included and excluded when booking.
What to Bring on Your Island Hopping Tour
To make the most of your island hopping adventure, here’s a list of essentials to bring with you:
- Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the strong tropical sun.
- Hat: Keep the sun off your face and head.
- Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the glare.
- Swimsuit: You’ll be spending a lot of time in the water.
- Towel: For drying off after swimming.
- Water Shoes: Protect your feet from sharp rocks and coral.
- Dry Bag: To keep your valuables safe and dry.
- Camera: To capture the stunning scenery.
- Cash: For entrance fees, drinks, and souvenirs.
- Insect Repellent: To protect yourself from mosquitoes.
Safety Tips for Island Hopping
While island hopping in El Nido is generally safe, it’s important to take some precautions:
- Listen to Your Guide: They are experienced and know the area well.
- Wear a Life Jacket: Especially if you’re not a strong swimmer.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Be Aware of the Weather: The weather can change quickly, so be prepared for rain or strong winds.
- Don’t Touch the Coral: It can damage the coral and harm marine life.
- Be Respectful of the Environment: Don’t litter or disturb the natural surroundings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit El Nido for island hopping?
The best time to visit El Nido is during the dry season, which runs from November to May. The weather is generally sunny and dry, with calm seas.
How much does an island hopping tour in El Nido cost?
The price of an island hopping tour in El Nido typically ranges from PHP 1,200 to PHP 1,400 per person. This usually includes lunch, drinking water, and snorkeling gear.
Are there private island hopping tours available?
Yes, you can book a private island hopping tour if you want a more personalized experience. Private tours are more expensive, but they offer more flexibility and privacy.
Is it possible to combine two tours in one day?
It’s generally not possible to combine two full tours in one day, as the distances between the destinations are quite far. However, you might be able to customize a private tour to include some highlights from different tours.
What should I do if it rains during my island hopping tour?
Island hopping tours usually continue even if it rains, unless the weather is very severe. Your tour operator will likely provide rain gear or find sheltered spots to wait out the rain.
El Nido island hopping is an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of the natural beauty of the Philippines. By planning ahead and following these tips, you can have a safe, enjoyable, and memorable adventure. So, pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to explore the stunning islands of El Nido!
