From Puerto Princesa: Day Trip to El Nido and Island Hopping

From Puerto Princesa: Day Trip to El Nido and Island Hopping

Imagine setting out early from Puerto Princesa, riding roughly five hours through the Philippine countryside, and arriving in El Nido ready for a day of island adventures. This tour offers a full day of swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and exploring some of the most iconic spots in Bacuit Bay, such as the Secret Lagoon, Big Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and Seven Commandos Beach. It’s a big commitment — with a 20-hour day including travel time — but for those craving a taste of El Nido’s pristine waters, it can be a rewarding experience.

Two things we particularly appreciate are the fact that gear rentals (snorkels, aqua shoes, kayaks) are included, making it straightforward to enjoy the water without fussing about extra costs. The scenic drive through the countryside offers a glimpse into local life, and the lunch of barbecue and fresh fruits provides a satisfying mid-day break amid stunning scenery. On the downside, the long van ride — around five hours each way — can be tiring, especially if you’re sensitive to long hours in transit.

This tour suits travelers who are eager to tick off some of El Nido’s top sights but are okay with a long day of travel and a busy schedule. It’s ideal for those who want a guided experience with all logistics taken care of, and who don’t mind sharing the boat with others. If you’re after a more relaxed pace or a private adventure, you might want to explore other options, but for a comprehensive, budget-friendly bucket-list excursion, this trip can deliver.

Key Points

• Long travel time: Expect around 5 hours each way in a van, which can be tiring but offers scenic countryside views.
• Comprehensive island stops: Up to 5 different sites including lagoons, beaches, and islands, allowing for diverse experiences.
• All-in-one package: Includes gear rentals, park fees, lunch, and transportation, simplifying the planning process.
• Group experience: Shared options are available, but note that reviews mention some discomfort with group size.
• Weather-dependent: The trip relies heavily on favorable weather; poor conditions may cancel parts or all of the tour.
• Authentic experiences: The stops offer genuine natural beauty, with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on beaches.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Detailed Review of the Tour

Getting There and Timing

The journey from Puerto Princesa to El Nido is probably the biggest challenge of this day trip. With approximately five hours of driving each way, you’ll want to be prepared for a long haul in an air-conditioned van. The pickup usually starts around 4 AM, so early risers might find it a bit daunting, but it also means you arrive in El Nido in time for breakfast and a full day of activities.

The scenic drive provides a chance to see the rural side of Palawan — lush greenery, small villages, and glimpses of local life. Some reviews mention discomfort with the long travel time, especially if you’re not used to spending so much time in transit. If you’re sensitive to long van rides, consider whether this trip suits your style or if you might prefer a more localized, shorter tour.

Island Hopping Highlights

Once in El Nido, the tour begins around 9 AM, with the boat set to make up to five stops. The itinerary includes the Secret Lagoon, a mysterious spot hidden behind jagged rocks; Shimizu Island, famed for its clear waters and coral reefs; Seven Commandos Beach, with its inviting white sands and coconuts; and the Big Lagoon, a photographer’s dream with towering limestone formations and calm waters.

The boat rides are generally straightforward, and gear rentals are included, which is a nice perk. You can snorkel with masks provided or kayak around the lagoons. Many travelers appreciate the chance to see the lagoons from both above and below the water, though the reviews note that the boats can be crowded — one reviewer mentions “boats on a chain,” which indicates a shared, busy environment.

Lunch and Facilities

Lunch is served around midday, featuring barbecue pork, chicken, seafood, fresh fruits, and vegetable salads. While some reviews praise the quality of the meal, others describe it as “shabby,” especially the vegetarian options, which were limited to cucumbers and fruits. If you’re vegetarian, you might want to pack some snacks or plan to supplement the meal, especially considering that “vegetarianism is still a new concept in the Philippines.”

Facilities are basic but functional. After the tour, you’ll have the chance to relax on Seven Commandos Beach, enjoying the white sands and the shade of coconut trees. It’s a good spot to unwind and soak in the scenery before heading back.

Return Journey and Evening

The tour wraps up around 4 PM, and then it’s back on the road to Puerto Princesa. Expect to arrive back around midnight. Some travelers find this a long and tiring day, especially because of the early start and extended travel time, but others appreciate the opportunity to see everything with minimal hassle.

Cost and Value

At $374 per group (up to two people), this trip isn’t cheap, but it includes all entry fees, gear rentals, lunch, and transportation. You’re paying for convenience and the chance to see top sights without the hassle of planning logistics yourself. For many, it’s a good value, considering the amount of scenery and activities packed into one day.

However, some reviews express concern over crowded boats and discomfort with the long van ride, so if you’re seeking a more relaxed experience, investing in a private tour or splitting the trip into two days might offer better value.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This day trip will appeal to travelers who are eager to see El Nido’s highlights without the hassle of organizing multiple trips. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with long travel days and don’t mind sharing common spaces on the boat. It’s also a solid option for those who want all the logistics handled — transfers, park fees, lunch — in a single package.

However, if you prioritize comfort over convenience or are traveling with mobility impairments, this tour might not be the best fit, given the long van ride and the busy boat environment. If you’re looking for a more intimate experience or private arrangements, consider other options.

In-depth Look at the Itinerary

Early Departure and Drive to El Nido

Starting at 4 AM, you’ll leave Puerto Princesa in a comfortable air-conditioned van. The long drive is part of the experience, giving you a window into rural life in Palawan. The journey is about five hours, with a stop for stretching and snacks. The scenery is lush and green, and the drive itself becomes a part of the adventure.

Arrival and Breakfast

Once in El Nido, you’ll have a quick breakfast in town before boarding your boat. This is a good time to get a sense of the local vibe and prepare for the day ahead.

Island Hopping Begins

By 9 AM, the boat departs. The itinerary depends on the route assigned, but typically includes the Secret Lagoon, where you’ll enter a hidden world behind jagged rocks. Prepare for a bit of an adventure — some reviews mention the lagoon’s jagged entrance can be tricky for less mobile travelers.

Next is Shimizu Island, with its pristine beach and snorkel-friendly waters. The clear, calm waters make it ideal for spotting marine life. Many travelers comment on the beautiful coral reefs and the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters.

After snorkeling and relaxing here, the tour moves to Seven Commandos Beach, a well-loved spot for lounging, swimming, or just soaking up the sun among coconut trees. The beach offers white sands and a peaceful atmosphere, although some find it crowded during peak times.

Finally, the Big Lagoon offers striking limestone formations and calm waters perfect for kayaking or just admiring the scenery. The lagoon’s quiet, almost surreal beauty makes it a highlight for many.

Lunch Break

Midway through the day, you’ll stop for a barbecue lunch. While some travelers find the meal satisfying, others note that the vegetarian options are limited, and the presentation and quality can vary. Bringing some extra snacks might be wise if you have specific dietary needs.

Return and Reflection

By 4 PM, the boat returns to the wharf. After packing up, you’ll head back on the long drive to Puerto Princesa, arriving around midnight. It’s a demanding schedule, but packed with memorable sights.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Transport and Comfort

The long van ride is unavoidable in this trip, and some reviews note it can be uncomfortable, especially if the vehicle is crowded. It’s wise to bring a neck pillow, water, and perhaps some entertainment for the drive. You’ll also want to be prepared for limited legroom and the boredom that can accompany long hours in transit.

What to Pack

Bring essentials like passport or ID, swimwear, a change of clothes, a towel, sunscreen, and water shoes to protect your feet on rocky beaches or in the lagoon. Remember to carry some cash for tips, souvenirs, or extra snacks, as not everything may be available at the stops.

Weather and Safety

The tour is weather-dependent; rough seas or storms can lead to cancellations or route changes, so check the forecast and be flexible. Always wear your life vest when on the boat, and listen carefully to your guide’s safety instructions.

Group Size

Shared tours can be lively and social, but also crowded. Be prepared for other travelers sharing space on the boat and in the water. If privacy or comfort is a priority, inquire about private options, which are available but at a higher cost.

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The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Puerto Princesa to El Nido offers a solid introduction to some of Palawan’s most beloved sights. It combines convenient logistics with diverse opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on stunning beaches. It’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind long travel hours and are eager to see the highlights of Bacuit Bay in one go.

While the experience is generally positive, the long van ride and busy boat environment are worth considering — especially if you’re sensitive to comfort or looking for a more personalized adventure. The included gear, well-organized schedule, and the chance to see lagoons and beaches that often appear in travel magazines make this a worthwhile option for first-time visitors.

If you value guided convenience, all-inclusive pricing, and the excitement of a packed itinerary, this tour provides a practical and scenic way to explore El Nido’s most famous spots in a single day. Just pack your patience and an extra water bottle, and you’re set for a memorable adventure.

FAQs

How long is the travel time from Puerto Princesa to El Nido?
Expect about five hours each way in a comfortable van, with a short stop for snacks and stretching.

What’s included in the tour price?
The package covers transportation, all entry fees, gear rentals (snorkels, aqua shoes, kayaks), park and lagoon fees, and lunch.

Can I choose a private tour?
Yes, private or small group options are available, which can offer more flexibility and less crowded experiences.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your passport or ID, swimwear, change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, water shoes, cash, and perhaps some snacks.

Is water provided?
While water is not explicitly listed as included, some reviews mention a lack of water, so bringing your own is recommended.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour depends on favorable weather; if canceled due to storms, you’ll be offered an alternative activity if you’re already in El Nido.

Are vegetarian options available?
Lunch includes seafood and barbecue, but vegetarian options are limited. Consider packing some snacks if you have dietary restrictions.

How crowded are the boats?
Some reviews mention “boats on a chain,” indicating shared boats with many passengers, which can feel crowded.

At what time does the tour start and end?
Pickup is usually around 4 AM, with the tour returning around 4 PM, and the drive back concluding around midnight.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
Probably not, due to the long van ride and boat environment. Check with the provider if you have specific mobility concerns.

This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect, helping you decide if this El Nido day trip fits your travel style. It’s a busy, adventure-packed day that offers a taste of Palawan’s natural beauty — ideal if you’re after a memorable, guided experience with everything organized for you.

You can check availability for your dates here: