Catanduanes Province is a haven for travelers who crave authentic experiences beyond the usual tourist spots. With its lush landscapes, vibrant marine life, and warm local community, it offers a variety of tours that cater to different interests. We especially love the Fisheye Divers PADI courses for their immersion in vibrant marine environments, and the Catanduanes 360 Tour for a relaxed exploration of the island’s natural beauty. Whether you’re into food, scenery, or underwater adventures, Catanduanes has something for every traveler.
One thing that sets Catanduanes apart is its combination of untouched nature and accessible adventure options. For instance, the Boracay Buffet Paradise Garden with Live Band and Fire Dance offers a lively dining experience, bringing a festive atmosphere to your evening. Meanwhile, the Fisheye Divers diving courses provide a chance to explore underwater wonders, making the island a great choice for both relaxation and active pursuits.
Below, you’ll find a detailed look at the top tours in Catanduanes, each offering a unique way to experience the island’s charms.
1. Boracay Buffet Paradise Garden with Live Band and Fire Dance
At number 1 is the Boracay Buffet Paradise Garden with Live Band and Fire Dance, a lively dining experience that captures the island’s festive spirit. For just $17 per person, you’ll enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet featuring local specialties in a five-star beachfront setting. The highlight, however, is the live music and fire dance show, which adds an exciting, immersive atmosphere to your evening.
This tour is perfect if you want a relaxing dinner with a touch of entertainment. The restaurant’s seaside location offers stunning views, especially during sunset. The fire dance performance is energetic and colorful, making it a memorable way to end a day exploring Catanduanes. The affordable price and lively vibe make this experience a good value, especially for travelers seeking a taste of local culture with their meal.
Bottom line: If you enjoy good food with entertainment and a beachfront setting, this dinner tour offers a fun, affordable night out. Keep in mind, the rating is 3.5 out of 5 from two reviews, so expect a lively atmosphere rather than a gourmet experience.
$17 per person
2. Catanduanes 360 Tour
At number 2, the Catanduanes 360 Tour promises a comprehensive look at the island’s natural beauty. For around $134 per person, this guided tour hits several top sights, including Cagnipa Rolling Hills, Tuwad-Tuwadan Blue Lagoon, and the eco-inspired Paraiso ni Honesto. You’ll enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant in Pandan, and unwind at the Catanduanes Halfway Resort with its refreshing coastal breeze.
This tour is designed for those who want a relaxed, scenic exploration without the hassle of planning. The highlight is the visit to Cagnipa Rolling Hills, where panoramic views are breathtaking. The Blue Lagoon offers a peaceful, lesser-known stretch of coast, perfect for taking photos and soaking in the scenery. The inclusion of the eco-park emphasizes community-driven conservation efforts, adding an educational element.
Reviews are not available, but the itinerary suggests a well-rounded day for nature lovers. The tour’s value lies in its scope—covering diverse landscapes and local culture—making it suitable for travelers with a day to dedicate to sightseeing.
Bottom line: This guided overview is ideal if you want a balanced mix of nature, local culture, and relaxation. It’s less suited for thrill-seekers but perfect for those wanting a stress-free, scenic day.
$134 per person
3. Fisheye Divers: Advanced Open Water Course
At number 3, the Fisheye Divers: Advanced Open Water Course offers a deep dive into the underwater world. For $524 per person, you’ll spend two days exploring various dive sites, with the opportunity to reach depths of 30 meters (100 feet), guided by experienced instructors.
This course is a standout if you’re already certified and want to expand your skills. The advanced course encompasses specialized dives, including night diving, deep diving, and underwater navigation. The waters around Boracay, part of the same marine region, boast exceptional marine life, colorful reefs, and dramatic underwater landscapes. Many reviews highlight the expert guidance and the safety-first approach, making it a good choice for serious divers.
The course’s value is high, given the specialization and the chance to explore deeper waters. It suits travelers who want an educational experience with a tangible skill upgrade and those dreaming of diving beyond basic open water.
Potential drawback: The price might be steep for casual travelers, but if diving is your passion, this course opens up new underwater adventures. The bottom line: a top choice for certified divers seeking to improve their skills in an excellent location.
$524 per person
4. Fisheye Divers: PADI Open Water Course
Finally, at number 4 is the Fisheye Divers: PADI Open Water Course, a three-day adventure that introduces you to the underwater world. For $599, you learn essential diving skills, gain confidence, and explore vibrant marine life in Boracay’s crystal-clear waters.
This course is perfect if you’re new to diving, offering hands-on training and a chance to dive up to 18 meters. The pools and open water sessions are designed to be engaging and accessible, suitable for beginners of all ages. Reviewers praise the professional instructors and the comprehensive approach that makes students feel safe and prepared.
The course is a great value considering the duration and depth of instruction. It’s ideal for travelers looking to turn a vacation into a new skill—once certified, you can explore dive sites independently.
Potential drawbacks: The three-day commitment may not suit travelers on a tight schedule. However, if diving is on your bucket list, this course provides a thorough introduction.
Bottom line: A highly recommended course for novices eager to learn in a supportive environment, with the bonus of exploring some of the best marine environments in the region.
$599 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour
When selecting among these options, consider your budget, interests, and time availability. If you want a lively evening with local entertainment, the Boracay Buffet Paradise Garden is a fun choice. For scenic exploration and a laid-back day, the Catanduanes 360 Tour offers a good mix of nature and culture.
Diving enthusiasts should look into the PADI Open Water Course if they’re new to diving, or consider the Advanced Open Water Course to deepen their underwater skills. Book early, especially for the diving courses, as they fill up quickly.
Consider your fitness level and interests—if you love underwater exploration, the diving courses are unmatched. For those seeking a relaxed day with scenic views, the Catanduanes 360 Tour is ideal. And if you’re just looking for a fun night out, the buffet with fire dance is hard to beat.
Final Thoughts
Catanduanes offers a diverse set of tours—from lively dinners and scenic explorations to world-class diving courses. For a relaxed, scenic day, the Catanduanes 360 Tour is hard to beat, offering a comprehensive look at the island’s highlights. For those with a passion for the underwater world, the Fisheye Divers courses provide exceptional value and skill-building opportunities.
For travelers seeking a lively evening with local flair, the Boracay Buffet Paradise Garden offers good food and entertainment at an affordable price. No matter your interests, planning ahead and booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable experiences in Catanduanes.