El Nido Tour D Full Day w/ Beach Lunch

Experience El Nido’s Hidden Beaches and Lagoons with Tour D

If you’re heading to El Nido, Philippines, and want a full day of exploring some of the most iconic spots, Tour D might be just what you’re after. Priced at $44 per person, this full-day adventure typically lasts about 7 to 8 hours, offering a chance to see Small Lagoon, Nat Nat Beach, Cadlao Lagoon, Pasandigan Cove, and Paradise Beach. The tour includes a beach lunch and the convenience of pickup from El Nido town.

What we love about this experience is how it combines several scenic stops with the opportunity to snorkel or just relax, all in a single day. The crystal-clear waters at Nat Nat Beach and the towering limestone formations at Cadlao Lagoon are truly picture-perfect. Plus, the beach lunch provides a nice break to enjoy the surroundings without the hassle of packing our own food.

A potential consideration is that this is a shared tour, which means you could be with up to 50 other travelers. Some reviews point out that the group size can be quite large — up to 30 people — which might affect the intimacy or tranquility of the experience. Also, additional costs for optional activities like kayak rentals or snorkeling gear are not included in the base price.

This tour is well-suited for nature enthusiasts, budget travelers, and those who want a comprehensive taste of El Nido’s best spots without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for a guided, all-in-one day, with opportunities for swimming and sightseeing, Tour D offers good value.

Key Points

• Diverse spots: Includes lagoons, beaches, and coves, offering a well-rounded El Nido experience.
• Affordable price: At $44, it delivers several sights in one day, including lunch.
• Shared tour format: Expect group sizes up to 50, which may influence the quietness of your trip.
• Additional costs: Kayak and snorkeling gear are extras, if you want to get more active.
• Nature-focused: Ideal for travelers wanting to see natural beauty and enjoy swimming in clear waters.
• Good for most travelers: Especially those who enjoy guided tours and don’t mind larger groups.

A Detailed Look at El Nido Tour D

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $44, you get access to several beautiful spots and a beach lunch. The tour also covers the environmental fee (P400 per person) and entrance to Small Lagoon (P200 per person). The pickup service is offered only within El Nido town, so if you stay outside the town center, expect extra charges or arrangements.

You might want to bring your own snorkeling gear if you’re interested, as snorkeling equipment costs 100 pesos per person to rent, and kayaks are available for 400 pesos. These activities are not included but can add fun if you’re comfortable with additional costs.

The Itinerary: From Lagoons to Beaches

The tour’s highlights are spread across a variety of stunning locales:

Small Lagoon is the first stop. We loved the narrow waterway and the deep blue waters surrounded by dark limestone cliffs. It’s a classic El Nido scene, perfect for photos or a peaceful paddle if you rent a kayak.

Next is Nat Nat Beach, which is famous for its crystal-clear waters. Reviews mention that it’s “best known for its mesmerizing underwater beauty” — making it ideal for snorkeling or just relaxing on the soft sands.

Cadlao Lagoon is a highlight, with its towering limestone rocks and scenic Ubugon Cove. The admission is included in the tour, which is handy because the natural beauty here is worth the small extra fee.

Pasandigan Cove continues the limestone theme with scenic lagoons and emerald waters, while Paradise Beach offers a white-sand shoreline perfect for lounging or a quick swim. It embodies the tropical vibe that makes El Nido special.

Authenticity and Group Dynamics

One review points out that despite the advertised price, some travelers paid more or experienced larger group sizes than expected. For example, a traveler paid 80 euros for two people and found themselves in a boat with 30 others — which can lead to a less intimate experience. This highlights the importance of being aware that group sizes can be large, and experiences may vary depending on how many people are on your boat.

Another reviewer appreciated the well-organized nature of the trip, mentioning “it was well,” and shared that multiple activities require kayak use, which is obligatory at certain locations. Be prepared for some physical activity if you want to maximize your experience.

The Overall Experience

We loved the variety of scenery—from the calm lagoons to the vibrant beach scenes—that makes this tour a great introduction to El Nido’s natural riches. The crystal waters and towering limestone cliffs are truly jaw-dropping. The beach lunch is a simple but appreciated feature, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

However, large groups, and sometimes extra costs for activities, are things to consider. If you prefer a more intimate or luxury experience, this might not be your best bet. But for value-focused travelers who want to see a lot in one day, it’s quite suitable.

Practical Tips

• Bring sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen.
• Pack snorkel gear if you want to explore underwater.
• Be prepared for large groups — early mornings or private options could be better if you seek tranquility.
• Confirm if your pickup is included or if you’ll need to arrange transportation outside El Nido town.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour suits budget-conscious travelers who want to see a wide variety of El Nido’s beaches and lagoons in one day. It’s also ideal for group travelers comfortable with larger crowds and optional extra activities. If you’re looking for a guided experience that combines scenic beauty and swimming, Tour D offers great value. However, if your priority is intimate moments or exclusivity, you might prefer a private tour or smaller group options.

The Sum Up

Tour D in El Nido offers a solid day of sightseeing with plenty of opportunities to enjoy crystal waters, limestone formations, and white beaches. Its affordable price combined with several must-see locations makes it a popular choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive taste of the area’s natural wonders.

While large groups and extra activity costs are factors to consider, if you’re flexible and eager to explore multiple spots without fuss, this tour provides good bang for your buck. It’s especially suitable for adventurers and first-timers looking to tick off several iconic El Nido sights in a single day.

For those who prefer more personalized attention or less crowded environments, exploring private options or smaller tours might be better. But for value-seeking travelers ready to discover, Tour D is a dependable, scenic way to experience the wild beauty of El Nido.

FAQ

What’s included in the tour?
You’ll receive entrance to Small Lagoon, a beach lunch, and the environmental fee. Pickup from El Nido town is also included, but only within the town limits.

Are activities like kayaking and snorkeling included?
No, they are optional extras. Kayak rentals cost 400 pesos per person, and snorkeling gear is 100 pesos. These are not part of the base price but are available if you want to add more adventure.

How many people are on the tour?
The maximum is 50 travelers, and some reviews mention groups of up to 30 people, which can make the experience lively but less intimate.

Is there an age limit or physical requirement?
Most travelers can participate; however, the tour involves boat rides and some walking, so be prepared for a full day of activity.

What’s the best way to prepare?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, waterproof camera, and perhaps a snorkel if you have your own. Remember to confirm pickup details, especially if staying outside the town center.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long is the tour?
Expect around 7 to 8 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and lunch.

Where does the tour take place?
It covers several key sites around El Nido, including lagoons, coves, and beaches, all accessible by boat from El Nido town.

Is the tour worth the price?
If you value seeing multiple iconic spots in one day and enjoy a relaxed, group setting, it offers very good value for the cost. Just be aware of the group size and extra charges for activities.

Overall, El Nido Tour D is a reliable choice for travelers eager to experience a broad swath of El Nido’s stunning natural scenery with solid value. It’s a good option for first-timers and those on a budget, provided you’re comfortable with larger groups and optional additional costs.