If you’re headed to Siargao and eager to explore some of its most beautiful spots, a day tour like the Land Tour Joiners offers a practical way to see the highlights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. For $54 per person, this 8-hour guided trip takes you from the lively shores of General Luna to the tranquil waters of Sugba Lagoon, with stops at Secret Beach, Maasin View Deck, Maasin River, and Magpupungko Rock Pool. Led by a friendly local guide, the tour promises a mix of scenic views, natural swimming spots, and a taste of local cuisine, all packed into one adventure.
What really draws us to this tour is its focus on accessible, authentic experiences—the boat ride to Sugba Lagoon offers spectacular scenery, and the visit to Secret Beach provides a peaceful, sun-drenched break. We also appreciate how the tour includes a hearty lunch at a local eatery, giving travelers a chance to enjoy regional flavors in a non-touristy setting. Another highlight is the variety of stops—each unique in its landscape and vibe—making the day both visually engaging and refreshingly diverse.
One thing to consider is that the schedule might feel a bit tight, with short durations at each location, especially Secret Beach and the lagoon. If you prefer more relaxed, unhurried visits or longer beach lounging, this might not be the perfect fit. Also, the group size and the quick transitions could limit time for spontaneous exploring or lingering at each spot.
This tour suits travelers seeking an active, scenic day with friendly company, good value, and efficient logistics. It’s especially ideal if you want a taste of the island’s top natural attractions without the stress of independent planning.
Key Points
- Stunning scenery: The boat ride to Sugba Lagoon provides picturesque views of the island’s lush coastline.
- Authentic local flavors: The included lunch offers a taste of regional cuisine in a non-touristy setting.
- Varied stops: From beaches and viewpoints to natural pools, each stop adds a different vibe.
- All-in-one convenience: Hotel pickup, entrance fees, transportation, and a guide make it easy.
- Time constraints: Short visits may not satisfy those wanting more time at each location.
- Suitable for active travelers: The tour involves walking, swimming, and boat rides, so be prepared.
Exploring the Tour in Detail
The Pickup and Transportation
Starting your day in General Luna, the tour kicks off with a pickup from your hotel—convenient if you’re staying close to the hub. The transport is a shared van, which takes about 15 minutes to reach the first stop. While the reviews mention the van’s limited space, the overall ease of hotel pickup and drop-off is a big plus, especially after a long night or early morning.
Sugba Lagoon: The Main Attraction
Most travelers, including those reviewed, highlight Sugba Lagoon as the tour’s standout feature. This expansive, calm body of water is perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, or just relaxing on the wooden dock. The boat ride to Sugba Lagoon is often described as scenic, with lush green surroundings and a peaceful vibe. The lagoon’s turquoise waters and surrounding mangroves make it a favorite for photos and nature lovers alike.
The tour includes a stop for lunch here, giving you time to enjoy a hearty meal before swimming. The lagoon’s natural beauty and the boat ride itself are often praised as worth the cost, with one reviewer calling it a “particular highlight.”
Secret Beach: Short but Sweet
Next, you’ll visit Secret Beach, which receives mixed reviews. With about 30 to 60 minutes allocated, it’s a quick stop, but the white sand and clear waters still offer a peaceful retreat from the busier spots. Travelers note that the time here is brief—about an hour or less—and some wish they had more time to relax and soak up the scenery. Still, it’s a lovely spot to dip your toes in the water and enjoy the sun.
More Great Tours NearbyMaasin View Deck and Maasin River
The Maasin View Deck offers panoramic vistas of the island’s lush landscapes and coastline—a perfect spot for photos. The surrounding Maasin River and Coconut Road provide a glimpse into local life and the island’s verdant environment. Many visitors appreciate these stops for their tranquil appeal and the opportunity to snap some memorable photos.
Magpupungko Rock Pool
The Magpupungko Rock Pool is another highlight for those who enjoy natural swimming pools. The clear, natural pool is formed by tide and rock, offering a refreshing dip. The natural setting and unique rock formations make this spot memorable, especially for water lovers.
The Lunch Experience
The included lunch at a local restaurant is generally described as satisfying—home-cooked, regional dishes, in a non-touristy setting. While some reviewers mention the short time spent at each stop, they also agree that the food was tasty and a worthwhile addition to the day.
Practical Details and What to Pack
The tour’s logistics are straightforward: hotel pickup, transportation, entrance fees, boat to Sugba Lagoon, and a local guide who speaks English and Tagalog. The price includes all these, offering good value for the one-day adventure.
What you’ll want to pack includes swimwear (for the lagoons and pools), camera for capturing the stunning scenery, sunscreen, water, snacks (since some stops are quick), and comfortable clothes suitable for walking and swimming. The tour emphasizes respecting the environment—no littering—and encourages following the guide’s instructions for safety.
Because the tour involves boat rides and natural swimming spots, it’s not suitable for people with back problems, wheelchair users, or those prone to seasickness.
Timing and Flexibility
The full day lasts around 8 hours, with the bus departing from General Luna and returning there at the end. Check the availability for specific start times, as they may vary. The tour is flexible in terms of cancellation—full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance—and you can reserve now and pay later, perfect for last-minute planners.
Authentic Experiences and What You Might Miss
While the tour packs in several highlights, it’s worth noting that the short stops mean you may not have ample time to relax or explore at each location. For example, the review by Nikolay notes that “you don’t have to stay on the beaches for very long,” which might leave travelers wishing for more leisure time.
The focus here is on scenic views, natural pools, and quick dips—ideal for active visitors but perhaps less suited for those wanting a slow beach day. The inclusion of local cuisine and friendly guides helps add an authentic flavor to your day, giving you a taste of Siargao’s natural charm and community.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re seeking a well-organized, scenic day that hits all the main natural attractions without the stress of planning, this tour is a good choice. It’s perfect for active travelers who enjoy swimming, quick hikes, and sightseeing. It also suits those on a budget looking for value for money, as the price covers transportation, entrance fees, boat rides, and lunch.
However, if you prefer more time at each location or a slower pace, you might find this tour a bit rushed. It’s best for travelers who appreciate efficient itineraries and don’t mind short visits in exchange for seeing multiple spots in one day.
Final Thoughts
This tour offers a solid introduction to some of Siargao’s most beautiful spots—Sugba Lagoon, Secret Beach, Magpupungko Rock Pool—and combines scenic boat rides, natural swimming pools, and a local culinary experience. It’s a cost-effective option that packs a lot into a single day, especially for those eager to explore without the hassle of organizing transport and entry.
The friendly guide, good value, and stunning scenery make this a popular choice among travelers looking for authentic, memorable experiences. Just be prepared for the brief stops and quick transitions—perfect if you want a snapshot of Siargao’s natural beauty rather than a leisurely beach vacation.
If you’re ready for an active, scenic day with plenty of photo opportunities and a taste of local life, this tour delivers. It’s well-suited for adventurous travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, all in a manageable, well-organized package.
FAQ
What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with specific start times depending on availability. It includes multiple stops and transportation throughout the day.
Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at your hotel in General Luna are included, making logistics simple and hassle-free.
What should I bring?
Pack swimwear, a camera, sunscreen, water, snacks, and comfortable clothes suitable for walking and swimming. Don’t forget your towel and hat for sun protection.
Are meals included?
Yes, you will enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant during the day. It’s regional fare, in a non-touristy setting.
Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
It’s best for active travelers who are comfortable walking, swimming, and handling boat rides. It’s not recommended for wheelchair users or those with back problems.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking now allows you to reserve your spot with the flexibility to pay later.
Are there any additional costs I should expect?
All entrance fees, environmental fees, transportation, and the boat to Sugba Lagoon are included. Personal expenses, snacks, and tips are not.
Is seasickness a concern?
If you’re prone to seasickness, you might find the boat ride to Sugba Lagoon a bit challenging, as it involves some open water travel.
This guided tour offers a practical, joyful way to experience some of Siargao’s most iconic natural sights, perfect for travelers who want to combine adventure, scenic beauty, and local flavors in one well-organized day.
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