El Nido Island Hopping Tour from Puerto Princesa: A Full-Day Adventure in Palawan’s Most Famous Waters

Starting with a very early morning pickup around 4 AM, this El Nido island-hopping experience offers a day packed with incredible scenery, crystal-clear waters, and unforgettable moments on some of Palawan’s most iconic islands. For $200 per person, you’ll spend around 18 to 20 hours immersed in natural beauty, guided by friendly and professional staff.

What we love about this tour is how it combines the thrill of exploring Bacuit Bay’s towering limestone cliffs and powdery beaches with practical comforts like included lunch, snorkel gear, and kayaks. Plus, the fact that all equipment and fees are covered means fewer surprises and more focus on soaking up the views.

However, a word of caution: the early start and long day might not be ideal for everyone, especially those who prefer a relaxed pace or are traveling with little children. This tour really suits those eager for a full immersion into Palawan’s stunning marine and land scenery, with enough energy to enjoy every stop.

Key Points

Early start: The van departs Puerto Princesa at 4 AM, so be prepared for a long day.
All-inclusive: Lunch, snorkeling gear, kayaks, and fees are included, so you only need to bring water and sunscreen.
Iconic stop: The Big Lagoon in El Nido is a must-see, with its striking limestone formations.
Group size: Limited to 12 travelers, offering a more intimate experience.
Duration: Expect 18-20 hours from pickup to return, making it a full-day adventure.
Weather dependency: Tour is weather-sensitive; poor weather may lead to cancellations with full refunds or rescheduling.

The Experience in Detail: What to Expect

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Early Morning Departure and Transportation

We appreciated the well-organized start—your guide (likely named in reviews, though not specified here) will meet you at Robinsons Palawan. The air-conditioned van makes for a comfortable, if sleepy, ride north. The early departure means you’ll be arriving in El Nido by around 9 AM, affording a full day of exploring.

Keep in mind, the first part of the day involves a long ride, but the comfort of the vehicle and anticipation of what’s ahead makes it worthwhile. We found the early start actually gave us more time on the islands and less crowding at popular spots.

El Nido Town Visit

The tour begins with a quick visit to El Nido itself. While the town is charming and offers some initial scenic views, most of the magic happens once you reach the islands. The stop here is brief but gives you a taste of the local atmosphere, with some time to stretch your legs and prepare for the day ahead.

Big Lagoon: The Star of the Show

After a short boat ride, you’ll arrive at the Big Lagoon, one of the most photographed spots in Palawan. Its towering limestone cliffs and emerald waters create a surreal backdrop. Visitors report that the lagoon’s calm, clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and kayaking, both of which are included in the tour.

One reviewer mentions, “The views are absolutely stunning, and the water is so clear you can see the vibrant marine life below.” The lagoon’s narrow entrance and high cliffs make for a dramatic scene that’s worth a few photos—and a swim if you’re brave enough.

Snorkeling and Kayaking

The inclusion of snorkeling gear and kayaks is a big plus. We enjoyed floating over coral reefs teeming with colorful fish, and paddling around in the kayaks offers a different perspective on the scenery. The equipment is provided, so you don’t need to bring your own, and it’s easy for all skill levels to enjoy.

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The Packed Lunch

A highlight of the day is the packed lunch provided using insulated lunch boxes. While simple, the meal is sufficient to energize you for the rest of the day. It’s a practical touch that saves you from needing to find food on the islands, which can sometimes be limited or overpriced.

Other Stops and Flexibility

While the main focus is on the Big Lagoon, depending on conditions and time, your guide may also take you to other nearby attractions like Secret Beach or Small Lagoon. These stops are usually brief but give more chances for snorkeling, swimming, or just soaking up the scenery.

Practical Tips for the Tour

Bring water: The tour provides equipment and lunch, but water is not included. Hydration is key given the early start and physical activity.
Dress comfortably: Wear quick-drying clothes, swimwear, and bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Moderate fitness needed: The tour is suitable for those with a moderate level of physical activity, as you’ll be climbing on boats and wading in shallow waters.
Timing: The long day means you’ll return around midnight, so plan your rest accordingly.

The Value and Who It’s Best For

Considering the price, this tour offers a full day of guided exploration with all major fees and equipment covered. It’s a good value if you want to maximize your time in Palawan without worrying about logistics. The small group size (max 12) enhances the experience, making it more personal and flexible.

This trip is ideal for travelers who love active days filled with scenic beauty, snorkeling, and island adventures. It suits those who don’t mind the early start and long hours, as it offers a deep dive into Palawan’s signature landscapes.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a well-organized, full-day experience that covers the highlights of Bacuit Bay, this tour is a solid choice. It’s perfect for those eager to see the limestone cliffs, swim in clear waters, and enjoy a hassle-free day with all gear and meals included. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or traveling with very young children, you might find the early start and long day a bit tiring.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins with pickup at 3:30 AM from Puerto Princesa, giving you plenty of time for the drive and preparations before arriving in El Nido.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a packed lunch is provided, served in insulated lunch boxes. It’s simple but practical to fuel your day of exploring.

Do I need to bring my own snorkel gear?
No, snorkel equipment is included in the tour. You can enjoy snorkeling without any extra hassle.

How long is the overall tour?
Expect around 18 to 20 hours from pickup to return, making it a full-day adventure.

What about group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, fostering a more intimate experience than larger tours.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While suitable for many, a moderate physical fitness level is recommended. The early start and boat rides may be challenging for very young children or older travelers with mobility issues.

Final Thoughts

This El Nido Island Hopping Tour from Puerto Princesa offers a comprehensive, well-organized way to experience some of Palawan’s most breathtaking scenery. The combination of limestone cliffs, crystal waters, snorkeling, and kayaking makes for a day packed with memorable moments. The all-inclusive nature and small group size make it particularly appealing for those wanting to avoid surprises and enjoy a more personalized experience.

If you’re looking to see a stunning side of Palawan without the hassle of planning each detail, this tour delivers solid value. It’s best suited for active travelers who want to maximize their time and love being out on the water. Just remember, the early start means you need to be prepared for a long, but undoubtedly rewarding, day.