tour a and c el nido

Which is the best El Nido Tour? – A, B or C (a Photo Guide)

By: Author MC Miller

Posted on Last updated: September 23, 2020

Categories Philippines , Travel Blog Post

El Nido is a tropical paradise popular for romantic beach getaways in the Philippines and home to 45 stunning islands which can be reached on a boat tour.

Tour companies all over town advertise A, B & C island hopping tours. We had so many questions.

But which El Nido tour is the best? What are the best islands to visit in El Nido?

So we decided to stay in El Nido a little longer to do all the tours available.

Which El Nido Tour? – A, B or C (a Photo Guide)

We categorised the tours into the Iconic Lagoon Tour, the White Sand Beaches & Caves tour and the Snorkelling tour.

Read on to see what each tour has to offer (with lots of photos) so you can decide which tour to do first!

Or, jump straight to a tour here:

• Tour A – Iconic Lagoon Tour
• Tour B – White Sand Beaches & Caves
• Tour C – Snorkelling Tour
• Which El Nido Tour Operator?
• Bonus: Save $20 off any El Nido Hotel

Tour A – The Iconic Lagoons

When you think of El Nido you probably think of the iconic Lagoons – the big lagoon and the small lagoon. If this is what you are interested in, pick Tour A.

If we had time for only one tour in El Nido, this would be it. The landscapes & the lagoons are something unique to El Nido and something that you simply do not see elsewhere.

The tour costs 1200 PHP per person ($22 USD).

Tips for Tour A:

• If you want to hire a go pro, save it for Tour C, there is not a lot of snorkeling on Tour A;
• Hiring/buying reef shoes is a necessity. You can hire a pair for 100 PHP per person on the beach before you depart;
• El Nido is an ocean friendly town so no plastic water bottles are allowed on the boat. Bring a reuseable water bottle for water.

Small Lagoon

The first destination on the El Nido Tour A is the Small Lagoon. An absolutely stunning turquoise lagoon.

Here, you have the choice of swimming into the Lagoon or kayaking (costs 300 PHP per kayak).

We highly recommend hiring a kayak as it would be extremely tiring swimming and you likely would not get to experience the full extent of the small lagoon.

Next stop was Big Lagoon – our favourite spot in El Nido and the most instagrammable place in El Nido in our opinion.

Like Small Lagoon, you have the choice of swimming into the Lagoon or kayaking (costs 300 PHP per kayak).

If you choose to swim you probably won’t have access to some of the best parts of the lagoon.

Secret Lagoon

After exploring the Big Lagoon, we got to visit the Secret Lagoon.

We loved that Tour A is action packed and includes lots of adventure activities such as crawling through a little hole to get to the beach on the other side.

The water at this lagoon was not as spectacular or impressive as the previous spots we had visited but we loved the adventure of accessing the lagoon.

Shimizu Island

After all this activity it is time for lunch on the beautiful Shimizu Island.

If you have a drone, Shimizu Island is the perfect place for a drone shot.

For lunch, we ate a delicious array of food prepared by the Umi Travel crew consisting of grilled fish, pork, prawns, vegetables and fruit. Yummo!

Seven Commando Beach

The final stop on Tour A is Seven Commando Beach.

This beach is a stunning strip of sand dotted with little beach huts to relax in as well as vendors selling various cool beverages for you to enjoy.

It is possible to use your snorkel at seven commando beach.

Tour B – Outstanding Beaches & Caves

If you are staying a little longer in El Nido, we highly recommend taking Tour B with Umi Travel & Tours – the beaches & caves on Tour B are just outstanding!

If you want to witness beautiful beaches, pick Tour B.

The tour costs 1300 PHP per person ($24 USD).

*** Note: Same Tips for Tour A (above) apply to Tour B.

Entalula Island

The first stop of the day was Entalula Island.

They don’t call Tour B ‘The Beach Tour’ for no reason. Entalula Island is the most beautiful beach with crystal clear water and white sand.

There is also super cool large rock formations on this island.

Snorkeling at Popolkan Island

Tour B is not considered ‘The Snorkeling Tour’ however, we did experience some great snorkeling at our next stop – Popolkan Island.

Snorkeling is absolutely fabulous all over the Philippines – the coral is vibrantly coloured and the fish are plentiful.

Snake Island

After a refreshing snorkel, the next stop of the day is Snake Island.

Luckily, snake island is not called snake island due to the snakes that live on the island but due to the snake shaped sandbar that joins one end of the island to the other.

We were very excited to visit snake island to get a drone shot of the sand bar however, it was high tide when we visited. Regardless, snake island was absolutely stunning and we got to see many orange starfish lining the beach.

A delicious lunch (same as Tour A) is served at snake island.

Cudugnon Cave

We love adventuring so we were happy to hear Tour B included a secret cave – Cudugnon Cave.

The cave involved entering through a tight hole and climbing. The guides at Umi Travel & Tours were quite helpful in this regard and helped us every step of the way through the cave.

An interesting fact about the cave is it was used by the Japanese during WWII to store treasure and was only discovered just recently.

The beach directly next to the cave is beautiful too. The good thing about Tour B is that it is less popular than Tours A & C so fewer people are at each destination.

Pinabuyutan Island

This was our favourite island of the day. It was so picture perfect.

At one end of the island is a palm tree lined beach and the other end of the island is the cutest Instagram-worthy house where a local family live.

If you feel like a drink, vendors kayak to the island to sell beer, soft drinks and ice cream.

Tour C – The Snorkeling Tour

If you love to snorkel then Tour C is the Tour for you. Many debate whether Tour A or C is better in El Nido as these are the two most popular Tours.

We preferred Tour A at a pinch (for the iconic factor) but Tour C proved pretty awesome too! If you have the time we strongly encourage you to do both!

The fish & marine life we saw on Tour C was world class.

The tour costs 1400 PHP per person ($22 USD). The boat travels the furthest away from El Nido on Tour C and hence it is the most expensive tour.

Tips for Tour C:

• If you want to hire/bring a go pro, this is your tour!
• Hiring/buying reef shoes is a necessity. You can hire them for 100 PHP per person.

Matinloc Shrine

Matinloc Shrine is usually a stop on Tour C but the team at Umi Travel & Tours were fabulous – they gave the day trippers the choice whether to visit the shrine or go snorkeling.

The people on the boat choose to skip the shrine and go snorkeling instead. A decision well made as the snorkeling was absolutely unbelievable in this area.

It is also a great place for epic photos on the front of the boat. The crew was very happy to oblige with some ‘couple goal’ shots for us.

Hidden Beach

Hidden Beach was one of the coolest places we saw on Tour C. If you have a drone, get it ready for hidden beach, the shot is most certainly a winner.

From where the boat docks, you must swim in to find the hidden beach located within.

As it was low tide when we arrived it was quite easy and we were able to walk most of the way in to hidden beach.

Helicopter Island

Another fabulous view from the sky is Helicopter Island.

Helicopter Island is also a nice place to go snorkeling off the beach. The best spots for snorkeling were at both ends of the island.

Talisay Beach

During Tour C, lunch was served at Talisay Beach. It wasn’t our favourite beach of the day.

However, it was a very relaxing place to enjoy the delicious lunch prepared.

Secret Beach

Another awesome place to visit during Tour C is secret beach. This would also be an epic drone shot as from the sky it vaguely resembles a love heart. Unfortunately our drone had lost power by this time of the day – bring extra batteries!

Much like Secret Lagoon, you are required to jump out of the boat and access Secret Beach through a little hole.

At high tide, it can be a little more difficult to access and you must dive underwater to enter.

Fortunately we arrived during low tide and accessing the secret beach was relatively easy.

So which is the best El Nido Tour?

That’s a hard question because we loved them all. We definitely recommend doing all three if you have the time but if you have ONLY enough time for one tour we would personally recommend Tour A.

Our Tour Company – Umi Travel & Tours

For all three of our El Nido Tours we went with Umi Travel & Tours. The staff were fun, professional and made sure we were safe the entire time during the 3 day adventure.

We met Sheen from Umi Travel & Tours who informed us that we would really be missing out to choose just one tour. And she was right! All three of the Tours in El Nido are equally fabulous and have different benefits to offer.

We also appreciate that they serve an absolutely delicious lunch consisting of grilled fish, chicken, pork, prawns, grilled vegetables, rich & fruit.

We would highly recommend this company for a tour in El Nido.

Umi Travel and Tours Hama Street, Barangay Masagana Zone 3 El Nido, Palawan, Philippines

You can find more information at  Umi Travel and Tours   website . You can also them on  Facebook &   Twitter , and Instagram .

Where to Stay in El Nido?

We stayed at  Sea Cocoon  during our time in El Nido and loved it. You can read more about our stay and see pictures  here !

There are so many fabulous places to stay in El Nido. Search & book with this Booking.com discount link and save $20 off your stay!

We hope this helped you plan your El Nido island tour! If you have anything to add or need some advice, leave a comment below!

Save this ‘El Nido Tour Guide’ to Pinterest so you can find it again later!

We were guests of Umi Travel & Tours. However, that does not impact our opinion. As always, all opinions are own own.

MC Miller is a travel blogger and writer who has travelled America extensively and abroad to over 80 countries. He founded Couple Travel The World in 2017. Since then, he has spent over 6 years on the road as a full time travel couple. When he not traveling he likes to spend quality time with his partner Bett, planning our their next date or romantic getaway!

El Nido Island Hopping – Guide To The Best Tours

Posted on Last updated: June 4, 2023

El Nido is a small, beachside town on the northern tip of Palawan island, which has become increasingly popular over the last few years.

It’s mostly used as a base for exploring the incredible natural splendour of the surrounding archipelago.

Known as the Bacuit Archipelago, the area is home to some of the most beautiful islands, lagoons, and beaches in the world. There’s stunning scenery everywhere you look.

The waters are incredibly clear and the sand is always brilliant white. Striking limestone rock formations pepper the sea, with tropical trees and coconuts in abundance.

Enjoying the untouched beaches of El Nido

I was lucky enough to explore the area with some island hopping tours during my trip through the Philippines , and I’m here to tell you how to do the same. A bit of island hopping is a must on any El Nido itinerary .

In this guide, I break down everything you need to know about going island hopping in El Nido, and share some tips on how to make the most of your visit.

If you’re looking to spend some incredible days in paradise island hopping amongst pristine beaches and clear water, El Nido is the place for you!

You might just be unsure about what tour to do, which is where this El Nido tours overview comes in!

• 2 My El Nido, Palawan island hopping experience
• 3.1.1 Pinagbuyutan Island
• 3.1.2 Snake Island, El Nido
• 3.1.3 Entalula Beach
• 3.1.4 Seven Commandos Beach
• 3.2.1 Paradise Beach
• 3.2.2 Pasandigan Beach
• 3.2.3 Helicopter Island, El Nido
• 3.2.4 Cadlao Lagoon
• 4.1 The El Nido lagoons on Tour A
• 4.2 The caves on Tour B
• 5 Where to stay in El Nido

Snorkelling in El Nido

A brief run down of the El Nido standard tours

Taking a Palawan island hopping tour is without a doubt the best and most popular way to experience the area. There are four main El Nido island hopping tours. Named simply A, B, C, and D.

Tour A is the most popular of the bunch, meaning it’s also generally the most crowded. But it’s a favourite for good reason, boasting some of the most epic islands and stunning lagoons.

It makes stops at Small Lagoon, 7 Commando Beach, Secret Lagoon, Big Lagoon, and Shimizu Island.

Check out prices & availability for your El Nido Tour A on GetYourGuide , Klook , or in the calendar below!

Exploring Seven Commandos Beach in El Nido

Tour B is less popular and more laid back than Tour A. This makes for an amazing day of adventure and sightseeing without as many tourists.

Tour B’s stops include Pinagbuyutan Island, Vigan Island, Cathedral Cave, Cudugnon Cave, and Entalula Beach.

Check out prices & availability for your El Nido island hopping Tour B on Klook , GetYourGuide , or the calendar below!

Me and my friends @solarpoweredblonde and @offgoesannie chilling on the beach at Pinagbuyutan Island. Drone shot by @solarpoweredblonde

Tour C is a strong contender for the most popular tour and is often considered the best one. This, of course, means that it can also get quite busy.

But it stops at some incredible destinations, including Helicopter Island, Secret Beach, Mantiloc Shrine, Hidden Beach, and Star Beach.

Check out prices & availability for your Tour C in El Nido on Klook , GetYourGuide , or the calendar below!

The turquoise water of El Nido, Philippines

Tour D explores the path less-travelled. It’s the quietest of the four and avoids most of the ‘must-see’ attractions.

But it stops at some hidden gems: Ipil Beach, Paradise Beach, Cadlao Lagoon, Pasandigan Beach, Bukal Beach, and Natnat Beach.

Click here to book your spot on El Nido Tour D , or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

Some of the beautiful corals you will see when snorkelling on your El Nido island hopping tours

My El Nido, Palawan island hopping experience

Most travellers here just pick one or two of the four classic El Nido boat tours and follow the crowd. But island hopping in the area has become incredibly popular. So the standard tours can get quite crowded and feel overly ‘touristy’.

Fortunately, there are other ways to do it. We organised all of our El Nido island tours through Outpost Beach Hostel , and I’m really glad that we did.

The tours we took allowed us to see the best bits of all the classic tours with a great group of people. All while avoiding the crowds.

| READ MORE: 15 BREATHTAKINGLY BEAUTIFUL PLACES IN THE PHILIPPINES |

The sunset view from Outpost Beach Hostel in El Nido, Palawan

The Hostel is set right on a stunning beach, just outside of El Nido town. The crowd is young, vibrant, and interesting. And this atmosphere certainly carries over to the tours.

Unlike most El Nido island hopping boats, the hostel’s boats are occupied only by people who have booked directly with Outpost Beach Hostel, which means the typical hostel crowd. All the passengers are laid-back backpackers.

There aren’t any families or older couples on board. This creates a really cool atmosphere for enthusiastic, adventurous travellers and makes for plenty of great conversation. We couldn’t have asked for more!

Click here to book your stay at Outpost Beach Hostel (you can book the boat tours once there!)

Making friends on one of the Outpost Beach Hostel island hopping tours of El Nido

The Outpost Hostel’s El Nido Tours

Outpost Beach Hostel only offers two tours which they alternate between on a daily basis. One day is a combination of tours A and B and the next day is a combination of tours C and D.

These tours can be organised with the hostel directly when you arrive. The combo tours are great because they each blend a popular tour with a less popular tour, allowing you to get the best of both worlds.

They stop by at most of the main highlights of the standard tours. But they do so in the opposite direction – for the sake of avoiding the crowds. It’s a simple trick that makes a world of difference.

Docking in the beautiful clear water of the islands around El Nido

We genuinely felt like we were visiting private beaches most of the time. Both of the hostel’s island hopping tours are the usual all-inclusive fare, each stopping for lunch along the way.

And so far as lunches go, the one they offer is pretty amazing. They cooked up some delicious barbecued fish which we ate on the beach. And there’s free-flowing rum on the cruise back at sunset!

A lovely grilled fish lunch served on the beach during our island hopping days

The tours are a fixed price of 1,500 pesos per person. Just a little more expensive than each of the classic tours (which go for around 1,300 pesos on average).

But each of the combo tours offers highlights from two classic tours, so they could be seen as more affordable.

Each of the combo tours offers a unique experience, and I’m really happy we ended up doing both. Here’s a breakdown of each tour, with some more detailed information on my favourite stops.

Click here to book your stay at Outpost Beach Hostel!

Grilled fish and pork buffet lunches on the beach… I could get used to this!

El Nido Tour A and B Combo

The stops include:

– Pinagbuyutan Island

– Snake island

– Pupolcan island

– Entalula island

– Seven commandos beach

Pinagbuyutan Island

A narrow strip of white sand and coconut trees line the shores of Panagbuyutan, with rugged rocky cliffs towering up above. It’s an impressively dramatic island that juts boldly out of the sea.

The main destination here is Ipil beach, where visitors can relax, swim, and explore. There’s a distinctly desert island type atmosphere, with very little evidence of human presence.

And being a Tour B stop, it’s not particularly popular, meaning it’s usually really quiet. It’s worth venturing beyond the beach if time allows. There are a bunch of little secret coves and pockets tucked away.

Snorkelling with millions of fish during our boat trip in El Nido

Snake Island, El Nido

Vigan Island, or as it’s more commonly known, Snake Island, is a tiny island just off of mainland Palawan.

It earned the name Snake Island thanks to the long, winding sandbar that connects it to the mainland (not for actual snakes – you can relax).

The sandbar is usually covered in roughly half a meter of water. Most visitors spend their time walking through the water and soaking up the breathtaking scenery.

There is also a little viewpoint from which you can see the sand bar from above.

The view of the sandbar of Snake Island from the viewpoint

Entalula Beach

Entalula Beach is a textbook paradise. The water is impossibly clear, the sand is dazzlingly white, and the rock formations are truly stunning.

It’s almost entirely undisturbed wilderness, with a series of tiny bays and coves to explore. Each one peppered with tropical vegetation.

A stop here will likely entail a lot of swimming and splashing in the warm waters, relaxing on the pristine beach, and admiring the unreal natural beauty.

As a tour B stop, it’s usually pretty quiet, so there won’t be hoards of tourists to detract from the magic.

Enjoying those island hopping days in El Nido, Palawan, shot with a GoPro dome to get the 50/50 over/under effect

Seven Commandos Beach

Seven Commandos Beach is a little bigger and more popular than many of the others. So while there are usually quite a few other people, the beach is big enough to share.

It remains almost entirely undeveloped, with the exception of a few huts and shelters. The palm-lined beachfront is a prime spot to relax and have a few dips in the water.

It’s also a popular spot to do a bit of snorkelling. You may even spot a sea turtle or two while exploring the beach’s underwater world.

Drone shot of Seven Commandos Beach by my friend @solarpoweredblonde

El Nido Tour C and D Combo  

– Paradise beach

– Bukal Island

– Pasandigan beach

– Cadlao Lagoon

– Helicopter Island

Here are some of the best bits in detail.

Paradise Beach

Paradise Beach is certainly one of the lesser-known gems of El Nido. It’s a stop on Tour D, so it’s often less busy than the better-known islands.

The beach certainly lives up to its name, with a small white-sand shorefront, palm trees, and crystal waters. While there isn’t much to do other than admire it, hang out, and swim, it’s a great little beach with a charming remote-island vibe.

Island hopping in El Nido, Philippines

Pasandigan Beach

It might not be called Paradise Beach but Pasandigan Beach comes second to none when it comes to natural beauty. Fine white sand, clear turquoise water, palm trees lining the edge of it and sheer cliffs in the backdrop.

Even if you may soon get used to these beautiful scenarios while island hopping in the Philippines, trust me when I say it never gets less impressive. This is a fun beach for chilling, tanning and swimming.

Drone shot by my friend @solarpoweredblonde of one of the beaches during our island hopping tour in El Nido

Helicopter Island, El Nido

As a Tour C stop, Helicopter Island is one of the most popular in El Nido and can be busier than other stops. But there’s a good amount of space, so it doesn’t feel overly crowded.

Believe it or not, the island actually resembles a helicopter from certain aerial angles. Hence the rather obscure name. It’s a great place to relax and swim, but it also offers some fantastic snorkelling.

The waters by the shore are home to a stunning variety of underwater life. So be sure to put on a mask and dive under the surface for an otherworldly experience.

Cruising towards Helicopter Island… can you see the helicopter?

Playing on the beach of Helicopter Island

Cadlao Lagoon

Cadlao Lagoon is the only lagoon that the Outpost Beach Hostel tours visit. The standard island hopping tours go to more famous lagoons, which ultimately are always incredibly busy.

During the tour C and D combo we visited Cadlao Lagoon which was a perfect in between experience.

We still got to see the stunning scenery of the clear turquoise water surrounded by the steep limestone cliffs, with only a few other boats around.

Trees and dramatic rock formations hang over turquoise waters at Cadlao Lagoon. It’s a little pocket of heaven on Tour D that immerses you fully in an incredible landscape.

The rocky walls that surround it are sheer, with plants growing from the cracks. And the water is perfect for a swim.

Here the hostel boat put some kayaks in the water for us to explore the lagoon with. You should also grab a mask and snorkel and swim close to the cliffs, the underwater views are so different from those of a beach!

Kayaking in El Nido

The Classic El Nido, Palawan tours attractions

While the hostel’s tours hit most of the top attractions, there are a few that they miss out. The following are some of the best attractions that are offered on the classic tours.

The El Nido lagoons on Tour A

The main element that’s lacking in Outpost Hostel’s tours is a focus on lagoons . They revolve more around the beaches, which are great. But there are some amazing lagoon stops on Tour A which the hotel leaves out.

El Nido is famous for its stunning lagoons, with Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon being two of the most popular. They’re basically isolated little pockets of seawater, surrounded by stunning cliff faces, vegetation, and rock formations.

The lagoons are almost the opposite of an island; water surrounded by land rather than the other way around. So they can be a refreshing change.

The tour boats tend to be too big to access the lagoons, due to shallow sections and small entrances. So you can usually rent a kayak to explore them or brave the waters and opt to swim.

Island hopping in El Nido

The caves on Tour B

The caves of El Nido may not have the same tropical charm as its beaches and lagoons. But they certainly make for an interesting and memorable experience.

Cathedral Cave and Cudugnon Cave are two of the most popular, both of which can be explored on tour B. Cudugnon Cave is accessed by climbing through a small hole in a cliff face.

Once inside, it opens up to reveal steep, jagged ceiling and rocky walls. There are holes overhead, pouring in golden sunlight and creating an ethereal vibe.

Cathedral Cave is larger and less closed off. And it’s a pretty amazing space. The boat anchors nearby and you can swim or kayak inside.

Some of the fish you can see when island hopping tours in El Nido

Where to stay in El Nido

As you may have guessed from this post I stayed at Outpost Beach Hostel , and I loved it. Besides the epic island hopping tours, Outpost is possibly one of the best hostels I’ve ever stayed at.

The hostel itself is very cool, located right on the beach with spacious communal areas. They have a great restaurant and bar, with fun social events on every night.

They also have a 10:30PM curfew time so you can get drunk and socialise, but if you want to go to bed early you don’t have to cope with loud party travellers.

Click here to see the latest prices and availability at Outpost Beach Hostel!

Sunset views from Outpost Beach Hostel in El Nido

The dorms all have aircon, with big and spacious beds and big drawers under the bunkbeds to lock up your belongings.

If you don’t want to stay in a hostel there are a few guest houses and boutique hotels next to it along the beach, where you can get a private room.

That way you can have your own room but still go to Outpost in evenings, bond with the hostel crowd and join their island hopping tours.

However Outpost is around a 5-minute tuk-tuk journey out of El Nido town centre. If you prefer to be central a couple good options are either El Nido Garden Resort or El Nido Beach Hotel .

Click here to see other accommodation options in El Nido!

Chilling on the beach at Pinagbuyutan Island during our tour A&B combo in El Nido

Final Thoughts about island hopping in El Nido

The island hopping tours that are available in El Nido offer a range of fantastic experiences to suit a variety of tastes and preferences. Outpost Hostel’s tours are a great option, but everyone’s different, and some may choose to stick with the standard tours.

If the classic tours sound more appealing to you, you can book them ahead of time online. I’ve listed them below with a recap.

Tour A – The most popular one that hits all the main highlights, but also the busiest one

Tour B – Goes off the beaten track to spots without as many crowds

Tour C – Great snorkelling and caves, second most popular and contender with tour A for the title of best tour in El Nido

Tour D – Visits the hidden gems the other tours don’t go to.

This is also a good option for those who want to have everything booked and sorted before travelling.

The incredibly turquoise water of El Nido

Whichever tours you choose, you’re bound to have an unforgettable adventure! Just be sure to pack wisely for your trip .

Island hopping in El Nido was one of the most magical things I’ve experienced. We went island hopping also in Siargao and in Coron , but the boat trips in El Nido were simply way more fun.

With so many incredible sights, perfect-temperature water, amazing island vibes, and wonderful weather, the area is nothing short of paradise.

I hope you find this El Nido island hopping guide useful in deciding what tour to do, and in planning your own time in El Nido!

Looking for more Philippines travel tips? Check out these guides!

• Swim with the sardine run & turtles in Moalbol
• A perfect Cebu Island 5-day itinerary
• Canyoneering in Kawasan Falls, Cebu – the ultimate guide
• Guide to hiking the highest peak in Cebu Island

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El Nido Island Hopping: A Full Guide to Private and Group Tours

05/07/2022 by Kristin Addis 8 Comments

If exploring secret lagoons, relaxing on pristine beaches, and swimming with diverse populations of neon colored tropical fish sounds like your perfect day, then island hopping in El Nido, Palawan, Philippines fits the bill! The natural beauty of this place is nothing short of a fairy tale, and it’s honestly mind-boggling to imagine that places like El Nido exist in the “real world.”

Island hopping in El Nido is also massively popular, so plan on sharing it with lots of other people. That said, there are ways that you can get more of it to yourself, and ways to make the tour more enjoyable.

This part of the world is ever-changing, and most of what’s on the internet is already outdated. This 2019 guide has everything you need to know about island hopping in El Nido today:

Table of Contents

If You Are Coming From Coron:

Consider going on an epic adventure from Coron to El Nido with Big Dream Boatman’s famous 4D3N trip . The tour promises to take you to places many do not get to visit, and provide the opportunity to embrace a true island life as well as to meet other travelers that you can plan to go on other trips together later.

The Island Hopping Tours

The island hopping tours in El Nido are organized into 4 different itineraries (creatively named, A, B, C, & D). Generally, Tour A is known for lagoons and beaches, B for caves and islands, C for great snorkeling and a shrine, and D somewhere in between, featuring island beaches. Each individual tour is unique and will take you on a journey to explore a different area of El Nido’s surrounding islands. This is your go-to guide for picking the one (or two…maybe three?) that best fits your adventure interests! At the end of the day, don’t stress about which letter tour is going to be the best- They’re all awesome, though some are more popular than others!

Prices for tours are fixed nowadays (though sometimes they’re discounted through the Klook links below), and just about every hotel and tour operator in El Nido offers one. Usually they call an agency who will book you onto a boat with 20 or so others, unless you book a private boat.

All tours have a compulsory 200 peso environmental fee which is good for 10 days and applicable to all tours, so hold onto your voucher! All tours also will charge 150 pesos for a mask and snorkel rental, so it’s best to bring your own if you can. Group tours also include a lunch of grilled fish, rice, and fruit. Here’s what’s on offer:

Tour A is one of the most popular of the four itineraries, essentially because it is the tour that visits the Big Lagoon. It also has a great combination of lagoons, beaches, and snorkeling which many tourists appreciate. In previous years, Tour A actually explored both the Big and Small Lagoons, but due to new municipal rules, this is no longer allowed. Because of this, there are two versions of Tour A available- one that goes to the Big Lagoon and another which goes to the Small Lagoon.

• The Big Lagoon is one of the main attractions of El Nido- characterized by stunningly deep blue water and massive, lush limestone cliff walls. These days it’s only possible to do either Big OR Small Lagoon, and each has a 200 peso entry fee with the possibility to rent a kayak for 250. I personally swam in because I LOVE swimming and even though nobody else did I was very happy with my choice. It was my highlight of El Nido.
• Secret Lagoon might not be much of a secret anymore, but it’s a pretty interesting, almost entirely sealed off lagoon save for a small opening near a gorgeous, white sand beach.

• Another great opportunity for snorkeling and seeing exquisite corals and marine life. Or just kicking back and relaxing on the white sand beach. Also, this island is a pure representative of El Nido’s geological beauty that boasts limestone cliffs covered with vegetation.
• This long white sand beach features a small beach bar that offers refreshing drinks and sunset cocktails. Keep your snorkeling gear handy, sea turtles love to hang out here!

Cost:  1200 PHP for the group tour

You can read more about my experience doing a private Tour A here , and my team member’s experience doing a group tour A here , with more detail on how to do it, whether it’s worth it or not, and more about each stop.

Tour B doesn’t get as much love as Tour A or C but for me, it ticked all of the boxes with sandbars, caves, and uniquely-shaped islands. Best of all, there weren’t as many people on Tour B, which was a nice contrast to the more popular Tour A.

• This is more commonly known as “Snake Island” because of a long and unique sandbar that slithers through this section of the Bacuit archipelago. This strip of sand gives you the feeling of walking in the middle of the sea. How many people can say they’ve experienced that?

• Also known as Ellis Island, this place might look familiar if you’ve ever searched El Nido on Google Images. It’s one of the many famous limestone structures that makes El Nido, El Nido. It also happens to have a gorgeous beach (surprised?) where you can relax in the sun, or splash around in the refreshing crystal clear water.

• Quick history lesson: this stop of Tour B is an important archeological site where potteries and other artifacts from the Sung Dynasty (960-1279) have been uncovered. This is also a location where locals hid from Japanese invaders during World War II. But now, it’s a place for you to put on your mask and snorkel and admire fish and corals, and if you’re lucky, swim alongside sea turtles.

Cost:  1300 PHP for the group tour

You can read more about my experience doing a private Tour B here , and my team member’s experience doing a group tour B here , with more detail on how to do it, whether it’s worth it or not, and more about each stop.

• The first stop of the tour is one of the most famous islands of the Bacuit archipelago. The traditional name is Dilumacad Island, but it took on the name Helicopter Island due to its shape – although some think it more closely resembles a camel or a dolphin… You’ll just have to decide for yourself!
• Once a place used to host a convent and a school, the Matinloc Shrine is now a place to walk around and explore the eerie yet charming land that legends say is haunted with a ghost.
• Beach lovers will be delighted by this tour, which provides landings at 3 gorgeous beaches that all have snorkeling opportunities. Be prepared to be amazed by the remote and serene beauty that encompasses each one- their names certainly weren’t chosen randomly.

Click here for a full review on the group tour C here!

Cost:  1400 PHP

Tour D is perfect for beach lovers who wish to avoid the majority of the crowds that flock to Miniloc Island, or perhaps have already visited and seen the “must-sees”.

• Close to El Nido town, Ipil Beach is the first stop where you can relax, swim, and charge up beneath the shade of some beautiful palm trees for the adventures that the rest of the day holds!
• Cadlao is the largest island of the Bacuit archipelago and home to one of the best lagoons as well as the relaxing Nat Nat Beach. The dramatic entrance is filled with corals and an abundance of fish. This is also known to be the least crowded compared to lagoons visited by other tours.
• Tour D utilizes the second half of the day to visit three different beaches – all of which are idyllic and pristine for those who wish to relax in the sun or snorkel around.

Cost:  1200 PHP

Are Private or Group Tours Best?

Is it worth booking a private tour? I did for both Tour A and Tour B and my feelings are mixed. In some ways, you can avoid the crowds by doing this, but it’s a much more expensive option unless you manage to find 6-10 others to join you.

Pros of doing a private tour:

• You can do the itineraries in reverse. Most tours go to the same places at the same time, so this allows you the possibility of getting some places to yourself, particularly on Tour B and D. This will probably not happen on Tour A.
• You can combine locations, and essentially create your own perfectly personalized tour.
• You choose how long to spend at each place, and you won’t have a permanent group of 19 others with you.

Cons of doing a private tour:

• Obviously, all of the island hopping tours in El Nido are vastly popular, so taking a private tour does not guarantee getting anything to yourself.
• They are very expensive. Most of the prices I saw online were out of date once I contacted the actual company, and at each place I asked in El Nido, the price ranged from 7k-9k pesos (and I asked about 15 places). You can cut down on the price by bringing your own food, though.

El Nido island hopping is not going to be without crowds, so if you can make peace with this regardless of which option you choose, you’re going to have a great time!

Where to Book:

First Name:

Now that I’ve gotten you excited about your island hopping adventure, you’re probably wondering where and how to book a tour. There are many companies prepared to take you on the adventure, and they more or less offer the same things.

There is the option to book at travel agencies in the town of El Nido, or at your accommodation. However I’ve found the cheapest pricing for group tours is actually on Klook, which you can book below:

Tour A , Tour B , Tour C .

Klook doesn’t appear to offer Tour D at this time, but as the prices are all fixed in town, you can book in person when you arrive.

Keep in mind, given the limited boats allowed for Tour A, you may want to book this one a few days ahead of time, particularly around Christmas and Holy Week!

While El Nido isn’t the secluded paradise it might have once been, it’s still a gorgeous adventure and one that I’m glad I experienced.

Happy island hopping!!

*Some links in this post are affiliate links to companies I use and trust that support this site at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting!

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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05/10/2019 at 6:37 am

Thanks for the great advice on tour options and what each one provides including group vs private tours. I think it so important when traveling, while still being spontaneous, to at least know going in what you can afford, how much approximate time you have available, how to keep from getting scammed, and if you are okay with crowds. This and the other recent posts you have provided have been most helpful in this regard! Cudugnon Cave looks really interesting to me as I like places that have a neat history or have archaeological significance, plus the beautiful water where you can maybe swim with sea turtles! Too bad the area is getting crowded. It is great to see people exploring our world and helping the Philippines out tourism-wise, but it is so hard to balance that out with protecting the beauty and finding solitude. Is there a trick to avoiding the sea urchins and stonefish and other potential hazards in the lagoons? That is the only thing that worries me. I have snorkeled before but it was always the other way around, don’t touch anything because we may hurt it, although in Eilat, Israel I went in and explored the Gulf of Aqaba and then came out and then saw all the “Danger!” signs :)!

Kristin says

05/10/2019 at 9:07 am

Yes basically, just don’t touch anything!

Diny Slamet says

07/18/2019 at 7:07 am

We did a private tour and avoided all the crowds by avoiding the islands covered by the fixed tours. We jus let the boatman take us to the quietest islands he knew. So saw no one else on the the three islands we visited and enjoyed tranquil snorkelling.

07/18/2019 at 12:01 pm

Awesome which ones were they and how did you go about organizing it?

Dierin says

07/28/2019 at 11:07 am

There are 2 of us females in our 60’s we would like to do a tour We will be staying for 12 days we need separate beds please make a suggestion Thx we love beaches

08/01/2019 at 2:49 am

Try booking.com for the hotel and book the island hopping through them.

John Eric Sagun says

11/09/2019 at 6:24 am

Hi, where can we get contacts of private tours? And are Tours being sold in klook provides free lunch in their package? Thank you for the response

11/10/2019 at 11:37 am

I just had to book through my guesthouse for private tours. Yes the group tours include lunch.

El Nido Tour A Island Hopping – Complete 2024 Guide

El Nido Tour A is one of the best things to do in Palawan and this particular tour is the most popular among the other El Nido boat tours such as B, C, and D.

Island-hopping in El Nido has been on my bucket list for years and I’m stoked to have finally ticked it off. That being said, I guarantee you will enjoy El Nido Tour A just as much as I did.

I have put together this complete guide of Tour A El Nido including where to book, how much it costs, and what to expect on the tour.

Table of Contents

WHERE TO BOOK EL NIDO TOUR A

There are countless tour agencies in the town offering El Nido Island Hopping Tours and it can be very overwhelming trying to find the right company at the right price.

I personally booked Tour A El Nido online in advance with Viator and it couldn’t have been easier!

This is the most top-rated El Nido Island Hopping Tour A with great reviews.

The tour includes a full day of island hopping on an outrigger boat to Seven Commandos Beach, Big Lagoon/Small Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and a BBQ lunch on the boat.

BEST EL NIDO TOUR PACKAGE

The BEST Island Hopping trip you can get is the El Nido Tour A !

It includes hotel pickup, lunch, entrance to the lagoon, the environmental fee, and a fun guide to spend the day with!

EL NIDO TOUR A PRICE

Prices range from 1200 pesos ($21) to 2200 (about $40). While you can book with agencies in El Nido Town, I recommend pre-booking online for different reasons:

First, tours on Viator include hotel pickup, the environmental fee, and the entrance to the lagoon, which are excluded with other tour operators.

Secondly, El Nido Tour A is the most popular of them all and, therefore, it sells out very fast. I tried to book in town twice before giving up and booking 2 days in advance on Viator.

Lastly, the best time of the day to visit is in the morning, and some tour operators will only depart in the afternoon, which isn’t convenient.

Check out the tour here below.

WHAT TO EXPECT ON TOUR A EL NIDO

El Nido Tour A begins at the meeting point on the beach in El Nido Bay to sign in to the registrar and meet the other travelers joining in on the adventure.

These tours El Nido start at around 9 am and returns between 4 pm – 5 pm.

Do note that an additional environmental fee of 200 pesos is valid for 10 days, so hang on to the ticket if you plan on doing other El Nido boat tours.

You will also have to pay a 200 pesos fee to enter the big and small lagoons.

Before jumping on the boat, there are many beach vendors selling waterproof phone cases, dry bags, reef booties, and other products that you may be interested in purchasing. Prices vary so put your bartering skills to the test.

Once you’re all geared up, head to the boat to begin the El Nido island-hopping adventure!

SEVEN COMMANDOS BEACH

The first stop on the tour is Seven Commandos Beach and what a place to begin. As our boat was pulling into the cove, I couldn’t believe the epic landscape in front of my eyes.

Azure waters, glistening white sands, coconut palm trees, and a few beachside shacks line the shores.

This is what the Philippines is all about and Seven Commandos Beach is hands-down one of the best beaches in El Nido!

We spent around 45 minutes on 7 Commando Beach, soaking up the sun and taking several dips in the ocean to cool off.

You can also purchase a fresh coconut from one of the beach hut vendors for as little as 50 pesos. Hold off on plastic straws and help to reduce the use of single-use plastic.

There are some fun-fuelled activities to be had on Seven Commandos Beach such as playing a game of beach volleyball with your mates or flying out over the water’s edge on the tree swing.

If you want to get an Instagram-worthy photo, head to the cluster of palm trees at the eastern end of 7 Commando Beach and work some angles before continuing on to the next location.

BIG LAGOON – EL NIDO TOUR A

The next stop of Tour A El Nido is the famous Big Lagoon at Miniloc Island.

When we arrived on the boat I could finally see why Big Lagoon was at the top of everyone’s list of things to do in El Nido!

The towering limestone cliffs of Miniloc Island are other-worldly and the deep blue-colored waters inside Big Lagoon are too inviting not to go for a swim!

One of the best activities to do at Big Lagoon El Nido is to rent a kayak and paddle your way through the opening of the lagoon and explore the deep blue waters inside.

The cost to rent a kayak is an additional 250 pesos which is worth every cent.

If you opt not to go kayaking in Big Lagoon, it’s possible to swim from the boat into the opening of the lagoon where the water is quite shallow.

From here you can walk around beneath the curving limestone cliffs and take a moment to let the phenomenality of this place soak in.

I decided to fly my drone camera to capture the beauty of it all from a birds-eye perspective. Safe to say these were my favorite photos I took on the El Nido island hopping tour!

The BEST Hotel in El Nido

Need a place to stay? Lagùn Hotel is conveniently located in the heart of El Nido Town.

Whether you’re here to explore the sights or relax in comfort, Lagùn Hotel offers the best of both worlds.

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This travel-sized drone captures 4K/60fps video, 48MP photo, and has 34 minutes flight time.

SECRET LAGOON EL NIDO

Secret Lagoon El Nido is around the corner from Big Lagoon which is the next stop on the tour.

The name isn’t quite fitting for this location as it’s one of the more popular spots for most El Nido boat tours.

Despite its popularity, Secret Lagoon is something you just have to see with your own eyes!

Our boat anchored just off the shore from Secret Lagoon and the boat crew started to prepare lunch while we were off exploring.

We had around 45 minutes to check out the small caves and sandy coves that surround the lagoon.

The limestone cliffs that envelop Secret Lagoon are some of the most impressive ones that you’ll come across when Island Hopping in El Nido.

You could marvel at these classic El Nido cliffs for hours and ponder how they came to be.

Buffet Lunch is served on the boat and what a spread it is! A mix of BBQ prawns, fish, chicken, pork and fresh salads, noodles, rice, and fruits.

SHIMIZU ISLAND

Last but not least on Tour A El Nido is Shimizu Island. Yet another natural beauty that lies in the archipelago of islands in the north of Palawan!

We were one of just three other boats at Shimizu Island so it was far less crowded than some of the other spots on the El Nido Island hopping tour package.

There’s quite a bit of exploring to be had on the island to its number of secluded beaches, small caves, and snorkeling around the colorful coral reefs.

The turquoise waters surrounding the island are more vibrant than the other islands we visited that day and it seriously looked good enough to drink!

The sun was already starting to set which cast some pretty cool shadows of the cliffs on the top of the ocean.

After an epic day on the water, it was time to make the return journey back to El Nido which takes approximately 1 hour.

Salty, sun-kissed, and exhausted, I think a beer is in order at one of the beachside bars to conclude your El Nido Tour A!

Capture All Your Adventures!

I’m sure y’all know by now that GoPro’s are arguably the best action cameras on the planet!

The new GoPro HERO 11 boasts 5.3K video, 27MP photo, HyperSmooth stabilization, and waterproof up to 10m!

OTHER EL NIDO ISLAND HOPPING TOURS

Looking for the best El Nido Island Hopping Tours?! The options are El Nido tour A, B, C, D.

Visit the Viator website to see all of the top-rated tours in El Nido. Make sure to book online in advance to be guaranteed the best rates!

WHERE TO STAY IN EL NIDO

El Nido has hundreds of accommodation options to choose from, so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to fit the needs of budget backpackers, luxury travelers, and everyone in between.

See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend:

Luxury: Lagùn Hotel

Lagùn Hotel is one of the best and most modern hotels in El Nido featuring an outdoor swimming pool, terrace, restaurant, bar, and free wifi throughout the property.

The rooms are fitted with a flat-screen tv, wardrobe, work desk, fridge, kettle, private bathroom, and some with a balcony.

Recommended place to stay for couples, families, or friends after enjoying an island hopping El Nido.

Mid Range: Sea Cocoon Hotel

I personally stayed at Sea Cocoon Hotel which is located right in the heart of El Nido town and just a minute’s walk to the beach.

Sea Cocoon Hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, terrace, restaurant, bar, and a shared lounge.

The rooms are spacious and modern with air-conditioning, large comfy beds, a wardrobe, a balcony, and a private bathroom. A buffet breakfast is also included for all guests.

Affordable place to stay for couples, families, or friends.

Budget: One Hostel El Nido

One Hostel is one of the best budget accommodations in El Nido which is centrally located and within walking distance of the bus terminal, shops, cafes, bars, restaurants, and beaches.

There are dorm rooms, double rooms, and quadruple rooms available with air-conditioning. The hostel also has free wifi and a shared lounge area for guests to hang out.

It’s the perfect place to stay in El Nido for solo travelers, couples, or friends on a budget.

FOR ALL OTHER PLACES TO STAY IN EL NIDO, SEARCH ON BOOKING.COM

What to pack for the philippines.

When visiting the Philippines, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you:

Must-Have Travel Essentials

Hidden money wallet.

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Reusable Water Bottle

The GRAYL GeoPress is the best reusable bottle that allows you to purify water from anywhere!

Travel Backpack

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Quick-Dry Travel Towel

The most compact, lightweight, and quick-dry towel for traveling!

Portable PowerBank

Keep your phone, laptop, and accessories charged while you’re on the go with the Anker PowerBank!

More Philippines Travel Guides

Click the button below to view all articles related to the Philippines!

FINAL THOUGHTS – EL NIDO TOUR A

I hope you enjoyed reading this El Nido blog about island hopping El Nido and if you have any questions at all about El Nido Tour A ,   please leave me a comment below this post and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

Search and book accommodation worldwide.

Compare and book cheap flights to anywhere.

Find tickets, tours, and experiences around the world.

Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.

Search all rental cars in your next destination.

Need travel insurance for your next trip?

THANKS FOR READING

Hey friend, thanks for reading this guide!

Please know this post may contain affiliate links. When making a purchase through one of my links, I earn a small kickback at no extra cost to you and it’s a big help to keep the site up and running. Rest assured, I only promote products and services that I personally use and recommend.

Click here to find out how you can support the site organically .

Many thanks!

2 thoughts on “El Nido Tour A Island Hopping – Complete 2024 Guide”

Thank you for your web site. This has the most helpful information of any site I’ve found so far, and puts me more at ease in making plans for February. Please send information as far as the boat used for the El-Nido A tour. Such as: the size, how many people on the boat., and restroom facilities. I wish you much sucess with your site. Gordon

Hi Gordon, thanks for the positive feedback! The boat is a traditional bangka boat and usually the tours have around 6-10 people. There are no toilets on board the boat but there are some toilet facilities on the islands that you will visit. Have a fantastic trip!

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El Nido Tour C in Palawan: Hidden Beach & Matinloc Shrine

El Nido’s famous for having some of the finest island scenery in the Philippines, and the best way to see it is on a shared boat tour.

The island hopping tours in El Nido are split into 4 different areas of coverage: A , B , C, and D . In my opinion, there is no ‘best’ tour, because they’re all amazing!

This page covers El Nido Tour C and what you can expect to see there: Matinloc Shrine, Tapiutan Island, Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, and Helicopter Island.

El Nido Tour C – What To Expect

El Nido Tour C includes 4-5 scenic island stops, and you can expect to spend about 45-60 minutes at each major stop (with the exception of the Matinloc Shrine).

It’s worth noting that your tour guide will probably tell you 30-45 minutes at each stop, but it usually ends up being closer to an hour at each stop because of stragglers (and that’s okay!).

The full tour runs from 9 AM to 5 PM (or later) since you also have to spend a couple hours on the boat riding between islands. No worries though, because even the transit bits are scenic and filled with good photo ops!  

Free lunch on the boat is included in every tour, with a typical lineup of grilled fish, pork, chicken, veggies, rice, and plenty of fresh fruit like pineapple and watermelon.

All of the food was great. Some people worry about the hygiene / food prep safety on these boat tours, but in more than two dozen tours our stomachs never had any issues at all (and we ate like pigs)!

At the start of the tour, your guide will give a brief talk about some of the island hopping rules.

One of these is no picking up coral, sand, animals like starfish, etc. This is a good rule, of course, and it helps protect the islands from the hoards of tourists that come here every year.

Life jackets are required during boat travel, but they don't really enforce this except when the boat is leaving the harbor, because that's the only time the coast guard is likely to notice.

Plastic water bottles are technically not allowed on the boat tours, but again they don't enforce this and we saw lots of people bringing plastic. Just make sure you dispose of it properly when you get back to El Nido town!

Conservation Fee

There’s an obligatory conservation fee / tourist tax of 200 pesos ($4 USD) per person for island hopping in El Nido.

This is separate from the cost of your tours, but the ticket is good for 10 days so you’ll probably only need to pay it once. Just don't lose your ticket, or you'll have to buy another one!

Things To See – Tour C

• matinloc shrine.

This is a small beach with some abandoned buildings, including an old Catholic shrine that looks a bit like a Greek gazebo.

Matinloc Shrine is generally the shortest stop on any Tour C, and some tours skip it completely, but it’s a neat artifact and the snorkeling here is pretty good!

• Tapiutan Island

This is a huge, rugged island with multiple sandy beaches that are great for taking a lunch break.

The most popular ones are Talisay Beach and Star Beach, but there are several others too, so ultimately the one that your tour brings you to will depend on the crowd levels that day.

Talisay is the biggest beach on the island, but it’s gotten a bit crowded now, and the others are nice to see as well. Did I mention Tapiutan island is perfect for droning?

• Secret Beach

This is a small beach that you can access through a hole in the rocks, but this time the opening is on the water and you have to swim through it!

It’s an easy swim, and completely life jacket friendly (you don’t have to dive down or have your face underwater).

Inside, there’s a tiny secret beach area with pointy limestone rocks sticking up in all directions.

• Hidden Beach

This is another hidden cove on the opposite side of Matinloc island, but with a bigger beach and even more scenic towering cliffs surrounding it on all sides.

This one is a short swim in shallow water to reach the peaceful, sandy beach inside the rocks.

If you fly a drone up from Hidden Beach, you can get some amazing views of the Tapiutan strait, with the end of Matinloc island looking like a gigantic elephant face and trunk!

• Helicopter Island

Dilumacad Island is also known as Helicopter Island because of how it looks from above. I think the shape could also pass for a whale or dolphin.

This is one of my favorite islands in El Nido, with a big beach, lots of photo ops, and some cheap coconut sellers so you can sit back and chill on the white sand at the end of your day tour.

Best El Nido Tour Package

Klook has high rated El Nido boat tours for very competitive prices.

Their package for Tour C costs 1,300 pesos ($25 USD) and includes all of the usual stops: Helicopter Island, Matinloc Shrine, Secret Beach, Tapiutan Island, and Hidden Beach. You also get free lunch and hotel pickup. This is a better price than many of the tour companies you’ll find on the street in El Nido town!

The other advantage of booking an online tour like this is that you can pay by credit card or Paypal, so you won’t have to run to the ATM constantly (and the ATMs in El Nido are not known for being very reliable in the first place).

Book Now: El Nido Tour C

More Palawan Travel Tips

Looking for more information on Palawan island in the Philippines?

Check out my full El Nido Travel Guide with free tips, photos, and more.  

Palawan Island Hopping — Tour A | B | C | D | Coron

You can click the links above for more info on the other Palawan island hopping tours!  

El Nido Hotels

Maligaya Beach Bungalows

El Nido Moringa Resort

Frendz Hostel El Nido

Karuna El Nido Villas

Where We Stayed

We stayed at David’s Guesthouse in El Nido town for 1,600 pesos ($31 USD) per night. This price got us a clean double bed with cold A/C and a private bathroom.

Keep in mind this is a relatively remote town in the Philippines, and the hotel scene in El Nido is still struggling to develop and catch up with rapid demand, so don’t expect luxury in this price range.

Even so, this is one of the best budget friendly hotel options we could find in town. The location was perfect -— just a 3 minute walk to the beach and all the best restaurants -- and the owner was very helpful in booking all of our island hopping tours!

Prices may fluctuate from time to time, so just keep an eye out for a good deal.

We stayed at this hotel in the center of El Nido town

• El Nido Palawan Island Hopping Guide
• Coron Palawan Island Hopping Guide
• Coron vs El Nido - Which Is Better?
• My Philippines Travel Guide – Tips, Info & Photos

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EL NIDO Tour A vs Tour C: What to Expect, Which is Better?

El Nido’s biggest crowd-drawers are its island tours, and there are four of them, conveniently named A-D. Some tour operators are offering combination tours at a higher cost, and you’ll even find some that can customize a tour for you. I’m not sure if these combination tours are allowed. I heard before that the local tourism authorities put a stop to it, but the last time I visited, they are still offered by tour companies.

If you’re  visiting El Nido for a few days, you’re probably wondering which tour is the best to take. If you ask most of my friends, it’s a toss between Tours A and C. Let’s say that for whatever reason, you have to pick only one. Here’s a break down of these two options so you could make a wiser decision.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

Standard Tours: Rates and Inclusions

The local government of El Nido standardizes the tour operations in the town. Boatmen and travel agencies must abide by the rules and guidelines that they set in order to provide a smoother and more consistent service to tourists.

Rates . They have ceiling rates that they cannot exceed, although they have seen a steep increase this year.

Here are the cost of each tour as of October 2018:

• Tour A  – Big Lagoon on Miniloc Island, Simizu Island, Entulala Island, Payong Payong Beach, and 7 Commando Beach, P1200/person
• Tour B  – Snake Island, Cudugnon Cave, Pinagbuyutan Island, Cathedral Cave, P1300/person
• Tour C  – Matinloc Shrine, Matinloc Island, Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, Tapuitan Island, Helicopter Island, P1400/person
• Tour D  – Nat Nat Beach, Pasandigan Cove, Paradise Beach, Ubugon Cave, Bukal Island, Cadlao Lagoon, P1200/person

During my first visit, the standard rate for Tour A was P700.

The two most visited spots in El Nido are the Small Lagoon and Big Lagoon of Miniloc Island, both used to be part of Tour A. For the longest time, Tour A was the most popular island tour, attracting more tourists than all the other three by a mile. In effect, these sites are prone to overcrowding. To address the problem, in November 2018, the local government split the two apart and reassigned Small Lagoon to Tour D.

Time . All tours start at 9am and end between 4pm-5pm. I’m not sure how flexible this is if you reserve an entire boat, but this applies to group tours.

Lunch . The boatmen will prepare lunch on one of the stops during the tour. Lunch is composed of the following: grilled fish, grilled pork or chicken, rice, vegetables, and fruits (usually bananas, watermelons, or pineapples).

Tour A takes you around the limestone paradise of Miniloc Island and its iconic lagoons. The sights at Miniloc are usually the ones perfectly captured in postcards. There are a couple of beach stops: one in Simizu Island and another at the 7 Commandos Beach in mainland El Nido.

Simizu Island is the usual lunch stop. But if it gets too crowded, the boatman picks an alternative, usually Payong-Payong Beach. But if you really want to see Simizu (or Payong Payong), just let the boatman know so he wouldn’t skip it.

Below are the places that await you should you take Tour A. Click on the pics for a more detailed description of the place.

If you’re powder-chasing, sun-worshipping beach bum, Tour C might be a better bet. Its main attractions are its fine, white beaches that hug the jagged coastline of Matinloc Island and Helicopter Island.

The highlight of the trip is the Secret Beach, a hidden pocket of fine sand enclosed by towering karst cliffs. It is accessible only via a small opening that requires visitors to swim through it.

Note, however, that Matinloc Island is a bit farther, which is why it costs more. Also, it faces the violent West Philippine Sea, exposing the passengers to bigger waves. If your time allows you to take both Tours A and C, make sure to do Tour C first if the weather is pleasant. Boatmen are more likely to cancel Tour C during inclement weather, while Tour A remains calm most of the time.

My favorite place in El Nido is not part of either tour. It is Nacpan-Calitang Beach, which until recently was considered an off-the-beaten-path destination. But if I only have one day in El Nido and have to choose between Tours A and C, I would probably pick Tour A .

Where to Book Tours

You can book when you’re already there in El Nido. You can also book in advance with Klook. Check out the links below.

For more information and tips about El Nido, read: EL NIDO TRAVEL GUIDE!

Top Hotels and Resorts in El Nido

As scored by Agoda customers.

• Duli Beach Resort. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Spin Designer Hostel – El Nido. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• The Cavern Pod Hotel & Specialty Cafe. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• AngelNido Resort. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Cuna Hotel. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Search for more Palawan Resorts!

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

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• TALISAY BEACH: El Nido, Palawan, Philippines
• The Secret Beach of Matinloc Island: El Nido, Palawan, Philippines
• Helicopter Island: On a Different High in El Nido, Palawan
• EL NIDO CORNER in El Nido, Palawan (Splurge Option)
• Big and Small Lagoons: Kayaking Around Miniloc Island, El Nido, Palawan
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• List of DOT-Accredited EL NIDO RESORTS, Hotels & Tour Operators (Palawan)

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I was there last week to celebrate my birthday alone and I had a blast. Your itinerary was the same like mine. SInce it was my birthday, I did not play poor hehehe but I had a blast. I can’t wait to blog this soon.

Can I ask when you guys went? I’m thinking about going there with my friend (only the two of us) in March, 2012 after our classes end. I ask because you said airfare went down in March for their anniversary. Do you think it’s possible to buy AND fly in March? Or was it a “buy in March, fly a few months later” thing? It’s ~P2,500 round trip right now. Thanks.

PS, any input on the coron vs el nido debate? I’m a foreigner (haven’t been to any white beaches…ever and I really want to), but I don’t dive. Snorkeling and kayaking seems fun though.

Great blog you have here! Been to El Nido twice and I often find myself daydreaming about being there again.

Thanks for this post! We’ve been to Puerto Princesa but would love to see El Nido too. I’m bookmarking this for future trip. :)

Thanks for the post & a lot of useable info. I though El Nido is expensive… it has been more than a decade since our last trip to Palawan. Hoping to get to El Nido up north on our future trip!

were you here in month of december? how are the waves. i’m planning to have my honeymoon here this december.

thanks! cheers! :)

nice blog. Im planning to celebrate my bday next month alone.

hi! im planning a trip to palawan on march. i was wondering, is it still mandatory to have prophylaxis shots for malaria before i go there? i havent been there. hope ul help me, thanks..

[…] el nido 4d 3n itinerary, el nido itinerary0 CommentThis travel itinerary was created and used by The Poor Traveler, a travel blogger who went on a 4D/3N trip to El Nido via Puerto Princesa. Because of the Puerto […]

[…] nido palawan itinerary, el nido sample itinerary0 CommentThis itinerary is an extended version of The Poor Traveler‘s 4D/3N travel plan. Like the original version, this one uses Puerto Princesa International […]

We have just recently booked tickets to Puerto Princesa for January 2013. Your blog is very helpful. I have a problem, though, so i hope u can help. The tickets we bought to Puerto Princesa is scheduled for arrival at 5:15pm! :( I know, i should’ve researched before booking a flight. Knowing this, where do you think can we stay in Puerto Princesa since there are no trips to El Nido in the afternoon?

Hi Aika! Thanks for dropping by my blog!

Hmm There are many cheap hotels in Puerto Princesa — Marian Home Inn, Casa Linda, Pads. You can also maximize your stay in Puerto Princesa by taking the FIREFLY WATCHING Tour in Iwahig River in the evening! :)

Good day, We are going to Puerto Princesa via Cebu on June 24-28 with El Nido and the undergoroud river in mind as must. We get to PPS at noontime and leave also noontime on June 28. We get suggestion that we g directly to El Nido that day, One friend said we go on our way as travel packages seem expensive. Can u advise? thanks a lot.

Hi poor traveller. We will be going to El Nido via P. Princesa this August (4d/3n). Your blog is very helpful.

My question is among the tour packages, why did you come up of choosing Package Tours A & C? Because I don’t know which tours to choose :(

Please help. Thanks!

Hi Grace, we based it on online reviews. :) Most testimonials said that Tours C and A were the best so that’s what we went for! :)

how much tour for 4days and 3 night all packages?thanks

Hey. Unfortunately, I’m not a travel agent. Just a travel blogger. :)

My wife and I are from NYC and will spend a vacation in the Philippines starting Feb. 23 to April 2, 2013. One the places we want to tour is Coron and El Nido in Palawan. You mentioned in your write up about El Nido that you opted to fly to Puerto Princesa instead of Coron. Why? Also, I noted you said there is a flight direct to El Nido from Manila. How much is the plane fare if it is direct? What is your advice for us? Two sisters of my wife are joining us so we will be a group of 4. In addition to Palawan, we plan to go to Batanes, Banaue rice terraces and Bicol (Legazpi and CamSur). Can you also advise us on how to book tours in these places?

Hi Ed! There are several ways to reach El Nido and here are three of them.

Direct Flights. El Nido has its own airport but its short runway prevents most airlines using relatively big planes to land here. There are direct flights to El Nido but tickets are expensive (compared to other destinations in the country) most of the time. There are also other companies offering chartered flights but the rate might be a little too much for many travelers

Via Coron. You may also consider flying to Coron. From there, big outrigger boats that travel to El Nido. The catch is that travel time is around 8 hours. And it also proves more expensive as you will have to fly to Coron first and then shell out a couple of thousand pesos to boat to El Nido.

Via Puerto Princesa. For me, the wisest choice have to be the Puerto Princesa route. From Manila, there are several cheap flights to Puerto Princesa City, Palawan’s capital. From there, there are buses and vans that can take you on a road trip to El Nido. Travel time is five to six hours.

Hi! Do you happen to still have the contact details of your boatman/tour guide? We will be in Palawan for a five-day trip next month (group of six) and the offer is Php600 and Php800 for Tour A and C, respectively. That’s already a Php1200 savings already, but would be great to bring it down to Php650 for the Tour C =) Thanks!

Hi Ava! No, I lost it. But we booked via El Nido Corner, at the far corner of the beach. Haha. I’m sure you’ll find others that are as cheap!

I’d personally give everything up for Tour B because of Snake Island. That sandbarrrrrrrr

Hi,are tours advisable for couples on a trip?Since it’s the first holiday of my beau and I myself,he wants everything free-flowing?How much approximately do u think it will cost to rent our own boat and not be tag along on a tour group?

hi can i book and go to am island hopping at the same day,,,or do i have to book a tour before being there?, im arriving El Nido at early morning 7:00 am do i have a time for island hopping ?

Please advise the best tour package that suits from 10yrs old above. we are considering Tour C but your suggestion is much appreciated.

WAiting for your kind reply.

Many thanks

Hi! For me, mas okay ang Tour A kung may kid kasi di ganun katagal yung byahe sa bangka and mas maganda but less dangerous yung spots.

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The Ultimate TOUR A Experience in El Nido, Palawan (Story & Guide)

Our second day marked the beginning of our exploration of the islands, beaches, and limestone formations in El Nido.

Tour A is one of the most popular in El Nido. Unlike Tour C, which is known for its hidden and secret beaches, Tour A focuses on the breathtaking lagoons.

We were early for our rendezvous at the port. We smiled and chatted with fellow tourists, seizing the opportunity to connect with other travelers. There, we met Michael and Sarah, a Swiss couple, who shared their travel stories with us and expressed their enjoyment of the Philippines . This is one of the best things about travel – the people you meet along the way.

By 8 AM, we hopped on the boat and the tour began.

Although Tour A is renowned for its breathtaking lagoons, our first stop that morning was the beach. The clear waters and limestones of 7 Commandos Beach were a stunning introduction to El Nido .

1. 7 Commandos Beach

7 Commandos Beach is the closest to El Nido town, so it’s typically either the first or the last stop on the tour.

We had no complaints about starting here, as it gave us a fantastic glimpse into the wonder of  El Nido with its white sand, clear waters, and limestone cliffs, fulfilling every desire for relaxation in an island paradise.

Approaching the island 🙂

READ STORY: 7 Commandos Beach of El Nido, Palawan

2. Big Lagoon

After spending a few minutes walking along the long stretch of beach, we headed to the Big Lagoon. The entrance to the Big Lagoon, with its surreal and magical pathway, was a breathtaking experience.

It felt like two colossal cliffs were parting ways to welcome us, like entering a different realm. It was incredibly beautiful!

READ STORY:   Big Lagoon of El Nido: Just Like a Fantasy Movie

3. Shimizu island

Next, we headed to Shimizu Island.

One of the boatmen, who sat beside me, revealed that this was their favorite island – a sentiment shared by many tour guides and boatmen. When I inquired why, he mentioned that it’s where we would have our lunch.

Shimizu Island, named after a Japanese scuba diver who tragically died while exploring its underwater tunnels, offers the perfect setting for beach bumming while enjoying seafood, delectable ensalada, veggies, and fruits. We enjoyed it immensely!

READ STORY:   Shimizu Island, El Nido : Our Boatmen’s Favorite Island

4. Secret Lagoon

Our next stop was the Secret Lagoon. We halted near a cluster of huge rocks. As all the tourists headed in one direction, we followed, swimming and walking on sharp rocks until we reached a small opening.

Passing through a hole, we found ourselves inside an enclosed lagoon. It was an awe-inspiring sight!

READ STORY:    Exploring the Secret Lagoon of El Nido

5. Small Lagoon

The Small Lagoon was our final destination and one of the most unforgettable adventures in El Nido.

We kayaked to a narrow entrance, feeling an exhilarating rush as we ventured inside the Small Lagoon. It was simply amazing how nature has crafted such breathtaking beauty.

READ THE BLOG POST: 15 Best Resorts in El Nido

READ STORY: What I learned while Kayaking at Small Lagoon, El Nido

In conclusion, if you seek the ultimate summer destination in the Philippines, El Nido is, without a doubt, the place to be!

El Nido: Tour A Travel Guide 2024

Welcome to El Nido, a slice of paradise in Palawan, Philippines! Tour A is a must-do for any visitor, known for its stunning lagoons, picturesque beaches, and awe-inspiring limestone formations. BOOK EL NIDO TOUR A

Key Destinations on Tour A

• Big Lagoon: A majestic and serene lagoon surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. Ideal for kayaking and swimming in its crystal-clear waters.
• Small Lagoon: Accessible via a narrow opening, this lagoon is a hidden gem perfect for snorkeling and exploring by kayak.
• Secret Lagoon: Nestled behind limestone rocks, it’s a unique spot accessed through a small hole, leading to a secluded pool of water.
• 7 Commandos Beach: Known for its powdery white sand and vibrant marine life, it’s great for relaxation and snorkeling.
• Shimizu Island: Famous for its stunning coral reefs, it’s an excellent spot for snorkeling. Also, a popular lunch stop where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local dishes.

READ MORE: 15 Best Resorts in El Nido

Travel Tips for Tour A

Best Time to Visit : The dry season from December to May offers the best weather conditions for exploring.

Booking the Tour : Book your tour in advance, especially during peak season. Many local operators offer Tour A , but prices and inclusions can vary.

Packing Essentials : Bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, water-resistant bags for electronics, and snorkeling gear. Although some tours provide snorkeling equipment, it’s always best to have your own for comfort and hygiene.

Environmental Preservation : El Nido is a protected area. Always follow the ‘leave no trace’ principle, avoiding littering and disturbing marine life.

Staying Hydrated : It’s crucial to stay hydrated under the sun. Bring a refillable water bottle; many tours provide water refills.

Safety Precautions : Always listen to your guide, especially when swimming or snorkeling, as currents can be strong in some areas.

Photography: Don’t forget your camera! El Nido offers some of the most photogenic landscapes in the world.

Tour A in El Nido is a breathtaking experience that showcases the beauty of Palawan’s natural landscapes. By following these tips, you’re set for an unforgettable adventure in one of the Philippines’ most stunning destinations.

Updates log 01/10/2017 – First published Updated the guide for 2024

More El Nido Blog Posts

• Puerto Princesa to El Nido by bus and van 
• Manila to Puerto Princesa by Ferry 
• Coron to El Nido by Fast Ferry

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El Nido Island Hopping Tour A: Everything You Need To Know

Jackson Groves

Posted on Last updated: August 10, 2023

Categories PHILIPPINES

In this article, I will share with you my review on TOUR A in El Nido and why it is the most popular tour!

Table of Contents

ISLAND HOPPING IN EL NIDO, PALAWAN

I was lucky enough to experience Tour A , Tour B   and Tour   C , but have not yet made it on Tour D. However, don’t stress about which ‘letter tour’ will be the best. It’s El Nido, you are going to be visiting lagoons and beaches that will blow your mind no matter what tour you are on.

To book your EL NIDO ISLAND HOPPING A TOUR you can Click Here to check the availability and book online (It’s just $18 USD)

• It includes Three Lagoons at Miniloc Island, Shimizu Island, Snorkel with turtles at Seven Commando Beach, BBQ Lunch

To book your EL NIDO   ISLAND HOPPING B TOUR you can Click Here to check the availability and book online (It’s just $18 USD)

• It includes Snake Island, Pinagbuyutan Island, Cudugnon Cave, BBQ Lunch

To book your  EL NIDO   ISLAND HOPPING C TOUR you can Click Here to check the availability and book online (It’s just $18 USD)

• It includes Helicopter Island, Secret Beach, Matinloc Shrine, Talisay Beach, BBQ Lunch

To book your  EL NIDO   ISLAND HOPPING D TOUR you can Click Here to check the availability and book online (It’s just $18 USD)

• It includes Cadlao Island, Pasandingan Beach, Small Lagoon, Natnat Beach, BBQ Lunch

Tour A in El Nido is the most popular tour. Everyone wants to see the Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon. I don’t blame them they are both epic.

This tour is a good mix of snorkeling and sightseeing, hanging on beaches and swimming. It can get crowded but that is the nature of the beast in El Nido. The most beautiful places are the most popular more often than not.

The tour runs from 9 am and returns at 4 pm including drinking water and lunch. Below is the itinerary we enjoyed during tour A. I’ve done the tour twice now and have included the photos and experience from both trips in 2016 and 2019.

SEVEN COMMANDO BEACH

Coconut trees lined Seven Commando beach and we, of course, sipped on a few after a quick snorkel. Our boat docked here for a 45-minute chill/exploration session. Many people snorkeled but we just hung out on the beach and had a swim.

The rocks in El Nido are incredibly sharp, Seven Commando Beach was no exception. Wear shoes if you are planning on exploring in caves and on rocks like us.

On my second visit to Seven Commando Beach, I also did a beach clean-up. El Nido is making great changes but trash on the islands still remains prevalent.

BIG LAGOON EL NIDO

Cruising up the lagoon was our first real look at how dramatic the cliffs and landscape was in El Nido. The lagoon has a narrow and the boats manage to navigate alongside each other as everyone on board arches their necks checking out the intense cliffs. The boat glides across the glassy water, almost crystal as the narrow entrance finally opens up into a giant lagoon. The boat did a slow circle in the lagoon letting us take in the sights before heading back out the narrow stretch.

LUNCH AT SHIMIZU ISLAND EL NIDO

Our guides had been cooking on the grill all morning as we cruised around from island to island. It was time to see what they had produced. It was an absolute feast.

I’ll be honest I’ve been on some tours where you get a cruddy sandwich and a bag of chips. This blew it out of the water. Grilled pork and chicken, fresh grilled fish and fruits and of course an abundance of rice.

There was plenty for everyone as we sat around on the logs watching monitor lizards amongst the trees. A bit of exploration post-lunch never hurts and we found a very shallow spot for a couple of jumps.

SECRET LAGOON EL NIDO

This spot was amazing but probably my least favorite as there were more than fifty tourists crammed into a tiny lagoon at once. We had to swim to a small hole and clamber through.

One through sun shone down into a tennis court-sized lagoon, totally enclosed by sharp cliffs. It was a great spot but a little bit of an anti-climax. However, the beach around the corner once back out of the lagoon was really cool.

The landscape here was by far my favorite spot of the day and I camped on my favorite spot at the front of the tour boat as we left snapping a few shots to capture the entire scene. I have never seen anything like it before in my life.

The second time I visited Secret Lagoon in El Nido on Tour A , I was armed with a drone. It gave me a whole new perspective on the lagoon and the scale of the beach. I’ve added those photos below.

SMALL LAGOON EL NIDO

Our last stop of the day would be the small lagoon. By now I had become a bit desensitized to the majestic beauty all around me. But the small lagoon hit another chord.

We were offered kayaks as we arrived but also given the option to swim. Being the cheap guys Jorden and I were of course we swam. It wasn’t too far just a few hundred yards both ways.

Swimming through this lagoon was beautiful, calming and a great way to end the day. We went as far in as we could and just spend a while floating on our backs taking in everything around us.

The second time I visited Small Lagoon was actually with the Red Bull Cliff Diving team, which was a whole new experience. They had set up ladders to a platform and were jumping from 21m and 27m for their competition. I’ve put the video below about this epic experience.

WHERE TO STAY IN EL NIDO

(Value) Spin Designer Hostel :  Let’s go for Spin! This rad hostel is located at the bustling town of El Nido. This property is highly recommended by many travelers as the service is superb. Spin Designer Hostel also provides a shared kitchen with a barbecue facility. It is value for money and very close to shops and beach.

If you stay here you will make friends with like-minded strangers and be in the prime location for the nightlife, island hopping and hiking  Taraw Peak . The beach literally steps away.

(Most Insta-worthy) Panorama Resort :  Panorama Resort is an exotic boutique resort tucked between Corong-Corong Beach and Maremigmeg Beach, is a 3-star property that features a panoramic view of the mountains in El Nido. The resort is very insta-worthy and has a lot of amenities including a private beach, outdoor and indoor swimming pool, and free WiFi. It offers an amazing sunset view and chill vibe to guests.

(Luxury Resort)   Las Cabanas Beach Resort :  This incredible beach resort is situated perfectly on the shore of Las Cabanas beach in El Nido. It offers a peaceful sanctuary from the harsh realities of the outside world. The resort is picturesque and provides easy access to island hopping and other activities.  It has rooms with sea and garden views, and the beachfront cottages are single standalone units.

ARE YOU KEEPING UP WITH MY EL NIDO SERIES?

You want to go island-hopping in El Nido but aren’t sure whether TOUR A,B,C or D will be better? Take a look at my El Nido Island Hopping Guide that compares all of the four tours to help you pick the best one for you.

Wondering what there is to do in El Nido? I’ve been twice and spent almost 30 days in El Nido so I’ve got some great recommendations for you in my Travel Guide to El Nido: 20 Awesome Things To Do

Which region will you choose for your accommodation in El Nido? I’ve broken each region down and given you suggestions for budget, value and luxury in El Nido Town, Lio Beach and Las Cabanas Beach in this guide: Where to stay in El Nido

My Review and photos of: Tour A

My Review and photos of: Tour B

My Review and photos of: Tour C

The most epic activity you can do in El Nido on the land is to hike up Taraw Peak and I share the photos and tell you how you can use the same local guide as me in this blog post:  Hiking up Taraw Peak – What You Need to Know

Not Another Backpacker

Island Hopping El Nido Tour A: Itinerary + Tips

Have you always dreamed of visiting the magnificent lagoons in El Nido and swim in crystal clear, turquoise blue water? Then you should book the Island Hopping El Nido Tour A, which doesn’t just take you to two spectacular lagoons but also to dazzling beaches in Bacuit Bay, as well!

After having lived in El Nido on Palawan for almost two years myself, I’ve put together this detailed guide about Island Hopping Tour A for you.

Here, you’ll find out what the El Nido Tour A package includes as well as helpful tips on what to bring and where to book your tour!

Note: Your trust is important to me. Therefore, I’d like to point out that this article contains referral links (also known as affiliate links). This means I get a small commission if you buy a product after clicking on one of the corresponding links marked with a *. There are no extra costs for you, but it helps me keep this blog ad-free. Thank you!

What Does the El Nido Tour A Package Include?

Being the most popular island hopping tour in El Nido , Tour A features one of the best itineraries you could dream of. On this tour, you’ll kayak through wide lagoons and swim in some of the clearest water in the world. But let’s jump right into it. What does the El Nido Tour A package include?

Small Lagoon OR Big Lagoon:

Small Lagoon and Big Lagoon are the most popular places in the bay. However, to avoid over-tourism and to protect the corals, the amount of visitors is limited, and you’re only allowed to visit one of the two lagoons per tour. So, you’ll have to decide beforehand, which lagoon you want to visit. Don’t get too caught up in making a decision though; both lagoons are absolutely stunning, and no matter which one you choose, you can’t go wrong!

Small Lagoon:

If you decide to visit Small Lagoon on El Nido Tour A, this will be your first stop of the day. Your tour guides will take you to the entrance of the lagoon, where you’ll get off the boat and either jump on a kayak or swim to explore the pristine area yourself.

If you opt for the kayak, it’ll cost you an extra 250 PHP, but I highly recommend going for this option. You’ll see that Small Lagoon is not that small after all, and a kayak will give you the comfort of being able to take your time and slowly paddle through.

First, you’ll have to paddle (or swim) through a hole in a rock, which is the way to enter the lagoon. Then you’ll be welcomed by a pool of crystal clear water, totally enclosed by high limestones covered in lush plants – what a paradise! Paddle a bit further to enter a deeper area, which is not as clear but just as beautiful, and enjoy the peacefulness of the natural beauty around you!

Big Lagoon:

Although many people prefer Small Lagoon, I can’t decide which place I like more; both lagoons have their own charm. Again, the first part of the lagoon will consist of incredibly clear water that’s perfect for swimming, as you can see absolutely everything!

Then you’ll enter a wider and deeper area. Here, you’ll definitely need a kayak, since Big Lagoon is just that big. Words can’t even describe the beauty of this place; you’ll just have to see it for yourself!

Head to the left to paddle through a narrow cave tunnel or enjoy the openness of the central pool. And with a bit of luck, you may even spot some baby reef sharks – don’t worry, they’re not dangerous!

Secret Lagoon:

Although Secret Lagoon is less impressive than Small and Big Lagoon, it’s still worth a visit. Your boat captain will take you to the southern side of Miniloc Island.

Here, you can either relax at a small beach or climb through a narrow hole in a rock on the left-hand side to enter the lagoon. Secret Lagoon is the smallest lagoon in El Nido, and the water is unfortunately not as clean as in the other lagoons.

For this reason, I suggest you should ask your boat captain to make this the shortest stop on your trip. Although Secret Lagoon is worth seeing, you may want to spend more time at the other places of El Nido Tour A!

Shimizu Island:

The next stop on El Nido’s island hopping tour A is Shimizu Island; one of my personal highlights! The island features small but beautiful beaches that will make you not want to leave. The limestone rocks are covered in green, lush plants, and I’ve even seen monitor lizards climbing around here before (huge lizards that are about 1 meter long that can be found throughout Southeast Asia).

You can sit in the shallow water near the beach or swim out while admiring the beautiful view of the surrounding islands. Plus, there’s also a great snorkeling spot, where you can explore countless fish and corals just a few meters away from the island!

7 Commandos Beach:

7 Commandos Beach is technically situated on the mainland of Palawan , yet it’s only reachable by boat or kayak. In my opinion, the long white-sand beach is one of the nicest places to swim in El Nido. Even if you swim far out, you’ll still be able to see the ground beneath your feet.

Plus, there’s also a beach resort (Vellago), where you can stay the night if you want to be secluded from town. Or you can head for a drink at the beach bar during your stop on the island hopping tour. After all, what could be more relaxing than sipping a cocktail on one of the most beautiful beaches in the world?!

Where to Book the Island Hopping El Nido Tour A?

You can book the El Nido Island Hopping Tour A almost anywhere in town. Just ask at any local tour agency, for example, the one from Art Café . Alternatively, you can check out GetYourGuide* if you prefer to book your ticket online.

There are two options for booking the El Nido Tour A package:

• You can book a group tour
• You can book a private tour

If you opt for the group tour, you’ll get a spot on a boat that you’ll have to share with other visitors. Hence, it’s great if you’re traveling solo or with a partner, and you’re eager to meet new people! However, if you’re traveling with a group of friends or family, it may be worth looking into a private island hopping tour. This way, you won’t have to share the boat with other visitors, and you may even save a few bucks (depending on how large your group is)!

Note: The island hopping tours depart every morning at 9 am from the pier in El Nido. Therefore, you should book your ticket at least one day in advance!

How Much Does the El Nido Tour A Cost?

Unfortunately, El Nido Tour A is not only the most popular island hopping tour in El Nido but also the most expensive. The official price for a single ticket on a group tour is 1200 PHP (appr. 24 USD). However, this does not include an extra 200 PHP (appr. 4 USD) for the lagoon entrance fee, a 200 PHP EDTF fee (environmental fee), and an optional 250 PHP (appr. 5 USD) fee for a kayak.

So, the total cost of the El Nido tour A package amounts to 1600 – 1850 PHP (appr. 32 – 36 USD).

Keep in mind: If you do several island tours within a 10-day period, you only have to pay EDTF once! To find out what the other tours have to offer, check out my overview of all island hopping tours in El Nido !

Conclusion: Is the El Nido Island Hopping Tour A Worth it?

Absolutely! If I had to pick only one of the island hopping tours in El Nido, I’d probably go for Tour A, as it doesn’t only take you to gorgeous beaches but also to splendid lagoons!

That being said, Tour A is also one of the more crowded tours in El Nido. If you’re looking for a less crowded tour, I’d recommend checking out El Nido Tour B or Tour D in El Nido instead!

If you booked a ticket for the Island Hopping Tour A in El Nido, you should bring swimwear, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Lunch and snorkels are typically included in the El Nido tour A package, but you should double-check with your tour agency about this when booking the tour. Some boat tours stopped serving lunch due to the pandemic!

In my opinion, it’s not too important which lagoon you decide to visit on El Nido Tour A. Both lagoons have a beautiful swimming area with incredibly clear water and are surrounded by stunning rock formations. However, if I had to pick one of the two, I’d probably go for Small Lagoon, as it feels a bit more intimate!

El Nido Tour A and C are the most popular tours in El Nido. But which one wins the battle? In my opinion, El Nido Tour A is even more spectacular than Tour C, as it includes the beautiful lagoons Palawan is known for. However, if you’re a beach lover, you may prefer El Nido Tour C , as it takes you to both Secret Beach and Hidden Beach (some of my favorite beaches in Bacuit Bay)!

Helpful Travel Resources for Your Trip

Do you still need to book your trip? Here, I’ll show you what resources I use:

TRANSPORTATION

• Skyscanner *: I book (almost) all my flights through Skyscanner. This site scans the web for the best deals within the blink of an eye. Plus, it shows you prices for the whole month, which makes it easy to find the cheapest day to fly!
• 12GoAsia*: This site specializes in providing cheap tickets for planes, buses, and trains all over Asia!

ACCOMMODATION

• Agoda *: Agoda usually has the best prices for accommodation and offers unbeatable 24-hour flash deals!
• Booking*: Alternatively, you can also find good deals and a wide selection of hotels and guest houses on Booking.com.
• Hostelworld*: If you’re looking specifically for a hostel, you’ll be amazed by the variety of options Hostelworld has to offer!

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El Nido Tour A: Detailed Review + Discount

Are you planning to go on the El Nido Tour A? It’s the most popular island hopping tour here, and for good reason.

Tour A takes you to some of the most stunning beaches and lagoons in the Philippines and is definitely a must-do during any El Nido itinerary .

To help you plan your trip, I’ve put together this comprehensive guide covering everything you need to know about El Nido island hopping tour A, including what to expect, places visited and the best time to visit.

I’ll also provide information on the cost of the tour and how to book it at a discount rate , so you can make the most of your trip without breaking the bank.

BEST EL NIDO ISLAND HOPPING TOUR A

Want to save money? Book this awesome El Nido Tour A for only 950 pesos instead of 1,200 pesos! Includes buffet lunch, life jacket and a licensed tour guide.

*** This article may contain affiliate links, meaning each time you click through and make a purchase, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you which helps a lot in keeping this website running. Thank you for your support :)

Read more about Palawan Philippines:

• El Nido itinerary for 3 or 4 days
• Detailed review of El nido Tour C
• How to spend 10 days in Palawan?
• Top things to do in Port Barton

Table of Contents

Price of El Nido Tour A

The El Nido Island Hopping Tour A costs 1,200 pesos for a group tour, which is about USD 22. If you check at any travel agency in EL Nido, you’ll find that they all offer the same price for the tour.

However, if you want to save money, I recommend booking your El Nido Tour A on Klook as it costs only 950 pesos!

CLICK HERE TO BOOK EL NIDO TOUR A ON KLOOK

Keep in mind that the tour price doesn’t include the entrance fee for the Big Lagoon and eco-tourism development fee.

Both cost an additional 200 pesos each, bringing the total price of the tour to 1,350 pesos if you book on Klook or 1,600 pesos if you book from a travel agency in El Nido.

Alternatively, you can book a private tour, but it will be considerably more expensive, costing around 10,000 pesos.

What to expect during Tour A El Nido?

Expect some of the most gorgeous beaches, crystal-clear water, pristine coral reefs, colorful fish, and towering rock formations as far as the eyes can see!

Seriously, I was in awe at the color of the water. Just thinking of it makes me want to go back to El Nido!

The sand is super soft at most beaches but I highly recommend wearing water shoes to protect your feet from the sharp corals, especially at the Secret Lagoon.

Water shoes can be rented anywhere in El Nido for 100 pesos per day or you can buy a pair for about 300 pesos.

I also recommend bringing a waterproof bag and phone case as you have to wade in the water to get on the boat. Note that you also have to swim to get to the Secret Lagoon.

Another thing you should know is that the El Nido Palawan Tour A normally lasts around 7-8 hours, starting at 9-9.30 a.m and ending at 4-5 p.m.

The tour I booked had about 18 people but depending on the operator, there may be around 15 to 25 people.

All tours come with a licensed tour guide, a life jacket, and a buffet lunch, but water isn’t included, so remember to bring your own.

However, drinks can also be purchased on some of the islands, and you may sometimes find locals selling ice cream and coconuts from their kayaks.

Note : Due to a recent regulation change, the boat crew is no longer permitted to prepare food on the islands, so the food served may be cold. Nevertheless, the food is still delicious and consists of fish, chicken, vegetables, rice, noodles, and fresh fruits.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK EL NIDO TOUR A

Highlights on El Nido Tour A

Seven commandos beach.

Seven Commandos Beach is situated on the mainland but can only be accessed by boat or kayak.

It’s typically the first stop on the El Nido island hopping tour A. We had approximately 45 minutes there, and despite the crowd, I enjoyed my time swimming and snorkeling in the ocean.

The beach boasts soft white sand, crystal-clear water, and rows of palm trees that offer plenty of shade to relax.

Additionally, there’s a volleyball court and a small restaurant that sells snacks, coconuts, and drinks.

Tip : This is the only stop on the tour where you’ll have access to a toilet.

We then proceeded to our next stop between Shimizu Island and the Secret Lagoon where we spent about 30 minutes swimming and snorkeling among the colorful fish.

Secret Lagoon

The Secret Lagoon is another popular stop on EL Nido Tour A, so do expect crowds.

The lagoon can only be accessed through a small opening in the limestone cliff, which often results in a line of people waiting to get in

This is where water shoes would come in very handy as the corals here are quite sharp.

Inside the lagoon, you’ll find a small pool surrounded by jagged rock formations. However, the water was a bit cold, and since it was too crowded, I didn’t spend much time there.

Instead, I spent most of my time on the beach next to the Secret Lagoon, which has fine white sand, rows of palm trees, and towering cliffs.

Shimizu Island

Just across the Secret Lagoon is Shimizu Island, which usually serves as the lunch spot. When we visited, the island was so crowded that it was impossible to dock the boat so we ended up having lunch on Payong-Payong Beach instead.

Despite the change in plans, we still got the opportunity to snorkel in the lagoon, which was filled with so many fish.

Payong-Payong Beach

We then made our way to Payong-Payong Beach, another idyllic spot with turquoise water and fine white sand.

The crew set up a table on the beach with a delicious buffet spread of chicken, fish, vegetables, rice, noodles, and fruits.

After lunch, we had some free time to swim and explore the beach before moving on to our next destination.

About a 10-minute boat ride away is the Big Lagoon, which is no doubt the most picturesque attraction on El Nido Tour A.

Here, you can explore a turquoise lagoon bordered by towering limestone cliffs on kayaks. Be sure to turn left before reaching the end of the lagoon to see the cave tunnel.

Note that there is an extra fee of 300 pesos for a double kayak or 350-400 pesos for a triple kayak. Clear kayaks are also available for rent and cost around 500 pesos.

There are no single kayaks available, so if you are traveling solo, you’ll still have to pay 300 pesos. Luckily, I met two other travelers on the tour so we shared a triple kayak and explored the lagoon together.

Should you book a group or private tour?

I don’t normally do group tours but since the private ones were too expensive, I didn’t have much choice. However, I had a great time on the tour as there were only about 18 people.

Traveling with a group allowed me to make friends with other travelers, and we even shared a kayak so I ended up saving money.

Keep in mind that even if you book a private tour, you’ll still be following the itinerary set by the tour operator and sharing the experience with other tourists once you arrive at each destination.

Ultimately, whether you choose a private or group tour depends on your preferences.

Best time to do El Nido Island Hopping Tour A

The best time to take the island hopping tour is during the dry season which falls between December and April.

The rainy season, on the other hand, runs from May to November, with July and August experiencing the highest amount of rainfall.

I personally did the tour in November and although a local told me that it usually rains a lot during this time of the year, the weather was perfectly sunny with a clear blue sky.

Where to Stay in El Nido?

Most tour operators don’t provide hotel transfers so if you want to be within walking distance of the meeting point, it’s best to stay in El Nido Town.

I personally stayed at Frendz Hostel and Spin Designer Hostel . Both are located in the middle of town and offer various room types, including dorms (mixed and women-only) and private rooms as well as free high-speed Wi-Fi.

Frendz Hostel has a great social vibe with friendly staff. The rooms are clean and there’s even a rooftop bar and pool offering a stunning view of the ocean. They also organize daily activities like island hopping, karaoke, game nights, and more. Check rates and availability here.

Spin Designer Hostel is more laidback and better suited for those who don’t want to party every night. Although it’s slightly more expensive, the room rate includes a delicious buffet breakfast. Check rates and availability here.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN EL NIDO

Hopefully, you found this review of El Nido island hopping tour A helpful. Don’t forget to book your tour on Klook here to get a discount ! And, if you have any questions, let me know in the comments below.

Steph is an outdoor enthusiast who’s always down for adventure. When she's not traveling abroad, you’ll either find her exploring her own backyard or researching her next trip. She writes adventure travel guides featuring waterfalls, mountains, and beaches and shares her tips on how to travel on a budget without compromising on comfort and experience.

Detailed El Nido Itinerary for 3 or 4 Days + Tips

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El Nido Tour C by Shared Boat

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Booking notes

Island hopping is undoubtedly the best way to explore the stunning islands scattered throughout Bacuit Bay in El Nido.  One of the most popular island hopping tours is El Nido Tour C, which strikes an excellent balance between adventure and snorkeling opportunities. This tour takes you to several must-see spots, including Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, Matinloc Shrine, Tapiutan Island, and Helicopter Island.

From swimming through a small slit in the rock face of Secret Beach to enjoying the powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters of Hidden Beach, El Nido Tour C offers a diverse range of experiences. The Matinloc Shrine on Matinloc Island provides a stunning panoramic view of the Tapiutan Strait, while Tapiutan Island and Helicopter Island offer tranquil sandy beaches and superb snorkeling opportunities.

Meet your tour guide at the meeting point in El Nido town and head to the boat departure point to start your full-day boat tour. Discover the stunning islands and secluded beaches scattered throughout Bacuit Bay, including Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, Matinloc Shrine, Tapiutan Island, and Helicopter Island. Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters of Bacuit Bay and snorkel among the vibrant tropical fish that call the area home. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the boat or on one of the stunning beaches. After the tour, return to El Nido town.

• Matinloc Island is an absolute gem located just 20 minutes away from El Nido town, making it a must-see attraction in Bacuit Bay. Paired with Tapiutan Island, these two neighboring islands form the narrow Tapiutan Strait, home to some of the best snorkeling spots in the area. Matinloc Island boasts several highlights, including the Matinloc Shrine, Hidden Beach, and Secret Beach. To reach Matinloc Shrine, you'll need to climb the steps of an abandoned building, where you'll be rewarded with a panoramic view of the stunning Tapiutan Strait. Additionally, there's a chapel dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary that you can visit. The tiny Secret Beach, located on Matinloc Island, can only be accessed by swimming through a small slit in the rock face. It's said that Alex Garland, the author of the novel turned movie, "The Beach," lived in El Nido and was inspired by Secret Beach. Meanwhile, Hidden Beach is a small, paradisiacal cove nestled within limestone cliffs, making it invisible from the open sea. Its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters make it a must-visit spot in El Nido. Tapiutan Island is situated further out in Bacuit Bay and offers a serene atmosphere with pristine sandy beaches and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Talisay Beach is one of the highlights of Tapiutan Island, boasting calm and shallow waters that are great for snorkeling or relaxing on the warm sand. Meanwhile, Star Beach is named after the harmless starfish that populate its seabed, making it one of the best snorkeling spots in Bacuit Bay. Lastly, Dilumacad Island, also known as "Helicopter Island," is another must-visit spot with its towering cliffs, lush tropical vegetation, white sand beach, and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
• Transfer by shared boat Local guide Picnic lunch Drinking water
• Hotel pick up/drop off Environmental fee (PHP 400 per person) Snorkeling set (available for rent)

Meeting Point

The meeting point is in El Nido town, and the exact location will be indicated in the voucher you'll receive after the booking is paid and confirmed. All hotels in El Nido town are conveniently situated within walking distance of the meeting point.

Transportation services for hotels outside El Nido Town

If your hotel is situated in Corong Corong, Las Cabanas, or Lio Beach, and you need transportation to the meeting point, we can arrange it for an additional fee: PHP 1,300 per van (10 seaters) or PHP 500 per tricycle (3 seaters) each way. Some hotels outside El Nido town provide complimentary shuttles to and from El Nido town.

From a minimum of 8 up to 20 people per boat.

Snorkeling set

Mask and Snorkel PHP 150 per set - Aqua Shoes/Fins PHP PHP 150 per set

Cancellation due to weather conditions

If the tour is cancelled due to bad weather, we will issue a full refund if it cannot be rescheduled for a later date.

Last minute Booking

All last-minute bookings (made on the same day or 3 days before the tour) must be made by phone or email only.

From: ₱  1,470.00

Plan your trip with us

Cost-effective option, full refund for weather-related cancellation, photo opportunities, snorkeling opportunities, you might also like....

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EL NIDO ISLAND HOPPING TOUR C

Escape to the pristine beauty of El Nido with Tour C, where a world of enchanting islands and hidden paradises awaits you. Experience the magic of Helicopter Island, Hidden Beach, Secret Beach, Talisay Beach, and Matinloc Shrine. Whether you seek adventure with a group or the intimacy of a private tour, El Nido delivers.

- Helicopter Island : Begin your journey at the stunning Helicopter Island, known for its unique limestone formations that resemble a helicopter from a distance. Dive into the turquoise waters and be mesmerized by the vibrant marine life.

- Hidden Beach : Discover the elusive beauty of Hidden Beach, nestled within a dramatic limestone cove. Reach this secret haven through a small crevice during low tide, where you'll find crystal-clear waters and a tranquil, hidden paradise.

- Secret Beach : Step into another world at the Secret Beach, accessible only through a small gap in the rocks. Here, you'll find a secluded stretch of shoreline and serene waters that invite you to relax and unwind.

- Talisay Beach : Enjoy the soft sands and inviting waters of Talisay Beach, a perfect spot for a beachside picnic or water activities. The view of towering limestone cliffs is simply breathtaking.

- Matinloc Shrine : Explore the historic Matinloc Shrine, perched on a hill with panoramic views of the sea. This spot not only offers historical insights but also breathtaking vistas that will leave you in awe.

PRICES FOR ISLAND HOPPING TOURS IN EL NIDO

GROUP BOAT tour 1,500php .  Included: transfer to port, lunch, water. lagoon fee, environment fee. Exclusions : transfer from the harbor to the town, Snorkeling mask hire 100php, Fins 100php, Aqua shoes 100php, Kayak 150php.  Number of people on the boat: 18-22

PRIVATE BOAT tour 10,000php  for 2 people, additional 1000php each. Included: boat with crew and fuel, licensed guide, hotel (town) pick up and transfer to port, lunch, ice box, water, towels, lagoon and environmental fees, snorkelling masks, kayaks. Exclusions: transfer from harbour to town, fins 100php, aqua shoes 100php.

PREMIUM 2 DECKS OUTRIGGER YACHT     18,000php   for 2 people, 1500p extra for each person .  Included: boat with crew and fuel, licensed guide, hotel (town) pick up and transfer to port, lunch, ice box, water, towels, lagoon and environmental fees, snorkelling masks , kayaks. Exclusions: transfer from harbour to town, fins 100php, aqua shoes 100php.

SPEED BOAT 22,000php  for 2 people, 1500php additional for each one.  Included: boat with crew and fuel, licensed guide, hotel (town) pick up and transfer to port, lunch, ice box, water, towels, lagoon and environmental fees, snorkelling masks , kayaks. Exclusions: transfer from harbour to town, fins 100php, aqua shoes 100php.

CATAMARAN   40,000php  for 4 people, 10k php additional for each one.  Included: boat with crew and fuel, hotel (town) pick up and transfer to port, lunch, ice box, water and drinks,  lagoon and environmental fees, snorkelling masks , kayaks. Exclusions: transfer from harbour to town.

GROUP OR PRIVATE ISLAND HOPPING TOUR IN EL NIDO

Select a group tour to share this adventure with fellow travelers and make new friends along the way, or choose a private tour for a more personalized experience. Our expert guides will ensure your safety and satisfaction throughout the journey.

El Nido's islands and beaches tell a story of natural wonders and hidden treasures. Join us on Tour C to experience these remarkable destinations, create unforgettable memories, and capture the essence of El Nido's breathtaking beauty. Don't miss the chance to explore these paradises, making El Nido an unforgettable part of your travel story.

CHOOSE YOUR BOAT

8.30-9.00am pick up group tours 9.00-9.40am start of group tours 3.30-4.30pm return to the port of Corong-Corong 7.45am pick up private tours * 8am start of private tours * 3pm return to the port of Corong-Corong *Private tours can be flexible in terms of time

ISLAND HOPPING EL NIDO TOUR A

ISLAND HOPPING EL NIDO TOUR B

ISLAND HOPPING EL NIDO TOUR D

COMBINATION TOURS AB AC AD CD

EXPEPDITIONS PALAWAN

BOOK 1 DAY ISLAND HOPPING TOUR IN EL NIDO

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Groenewegen gana la sexta etapa del Tour de France con final de fotografía

El holandés Dylan Groenewegen celebra en el podio tras ganar la sexta etapa del Tour de Francia en la ruta de 163,5 kilómetros entre Macon y Dijon, Francia el jueves 5 de julio del 2024. (AP Foto/Jerome Delay)

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DIJON, Francia (AP) — El campeón holandés Dylan Groenewegen ganó la sexta etapa del Tour de Francia el jueves con un sprint que se decidió con un final de fotografía.

Tadej Pogacar mantuvo el maillot amarillo.

Groenewegen consiguió su sexta victoria en una etapa en la competencia más importante del ciclismo superando a Jasper Philipsen y Biniam Girmay.

No hubo realmente cambios en la clasificación general. Pogacar mantiene su ventaja de 45 segundos sobre Remco Evenepoel y el dos veces campeón Jonas Vingegaard fue tercero, 50 segundos detrás.

Después de que Matthieu Van der Poel inició el sprint en la ciudad de Dijon para darle la ventaja a su compañero Philipsen, Groenewegen cronometró perfectamente su esfuerzo y gracias a su gran poder ganó por unos centímetros.

La pelea entre los contendientes por el maillot amarillo continuará el viernes en la primera contrarreloj. La carrera de 25 kilómetros incluye un ascenso de 6,1 grados y que pondrá a prueba a los ciclistas en la última sección.

La relativamente corta etapa del jueves de 163,5 kilómetros inició en Macon y llevó al pelotón sobre los viñedos de Borgoña. Al inicio de la etapa pasaron junto a un gigantesco dibujo del delantero francés Antoine Griezmann, quien nació en Macon.

Jonas Abrahamsen lideró el primer movimiento del día para sumar puntos en la clasificación y quedarse con el maillot de puntos como el mejor trepador, y se escapó junto a Axel Zingle antes de que los alcanzaran poco después.

Los equipos de sprinters tomaron el control a 4 kilómetros de la meta y los hombres más veloces del pelotón se prepararon para el brutal final esfuerzo. Groenewegen tuvo que esperar para conocer que ganó.