El Nido Tour C

When considering a trip to the Philippines, El Nido is often top of mind—famous for its stunning limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs. But if you’re based in Cavite and seeking a day-trip adventure that offers a taste of the famous El Nido experience, Tour C by BIZ IT Travel might just be your answer. For a modest $33 per person and lasting about 8 hours, this tour takes you to Helicopter Island, Hidden Beach, and some fantastic snorkeling spots.

What we love about this tour is the chance to see some of the most iconic sights without the long travel to Palawan. The Helicopter Island, with its limestone cliffs resembling a helicopter, is a visual treat, perfect for photos and just soaking in the unusual landscape. Plus, the Hidden Beach offers that secret feeling, a tucked-away spot that sparks curiosity and a sense of discovery.

One consideration is that the tour’s inclusion of snorkel gear is not guaranteed—you’ll need to bring your own or rent separately, which adds a small extra step. Also, some reviews mention that the tourist spots can get crowded, which might curb some of the feeling of seclusion you’re after.

This experience is best suited for travelers who love natural scenery, enjoy light adventure activities, and appreciate guided tours that handle the logistics. It’s a practical choice for those wanting a taste of the Philippines’ famed islands in a manageable day.

Key Points

• Affordable price with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
• Visiting iconic sights like Helicopter Island and Hidden Beach.
• Snorkeling opportunities at Talisay Beach and Star Beach.
• Tour duration of about 8 hours, with flexible start times.
• Guided experience with a live English-speaking guide.
• Limited inclusion of snorkeling gear, so bring your own or rent.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering a Unique Coastal Day in Cavite

We often think of the Philippines as a destination best explored over days or weeks, but El Nido Tour C proves that even a day in Cavite can offer a glimpse of island life and natural beauty. Starting with hotel pickup (included), the tour leads you to a series of stops that highlight the area’s most photogenic and intriguing features.

Helicopter Island is the star of the morning—its limestone cliffs dramatically rising from the sea, resembling the rotor blades of a helicopter. This spot is particularly memorable for first-timers, offering sweeping views that are perfect for snapping photos and marveling at nature’s sculpture. As one reviewer noted, “The guides were great, very nice and helpful people!!”—a point that underscores the importance of a knowledgeable guide to enrich your experience.

Hidden Beach is next, a small, secluded cove that feels like discovering a secret. The stories behind the Matinloc Shrine add an extra layer of local culture and history, giving you more than just pretty scenery but a sense of place and story. This can be especially appealing for travelers interested in local tales and heritage.

Snorkeling is also part of the package, with spots at Talisay Beach and Star Beach. These areas are known for their coral reefs and marine life, though some travelers—like Linda—have noted that the reefs might be somewhat degraded (“all dead”), which affects the visual spectacle. Still, snorkeling remains a fun way to spend part of your day and see the underwater world.

Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Morning Pickup and Introduction
The day begins with a hotel pickup—an advantage for visitors who want a hassle-free start. The guide, speaking English, will brief you on the day’s plan and safety precautions.

Helicopter Island
Once on the boat, you’ll cruise to Helicopter Island, about an hour away. The limestone cliffs here are the highlight—great for photos and just soaking in the views. The scenery is what makes this stop worth it, offering a stark contrast between the blue sea and white limestone.

Hidden Beach and Matinloc Shrine
Next, you’ll visit Hidden Beach, which lives up to its name as a small, quiet cove. The local stories and history behind the Matinloc Shrine add depth to this stop, making it more than just a pretty vista. The shrine itself, though not detailed in the data, is likely a cultural site worth exploring for those interested in local history.

Snorkeling at Talisay and Star Beaches
In the afternoon, snorkeling at Talisay and Star Beaches provides a chance to observe the marine environment. While some reefs may be less vibrant than expected, the experience of floating above coral formations and watching fish swim by remains enjoyable.

Return and Drop-off
The day wraps up with a boat ride back to your start point, with plenty of time to reflect on the day’s sights.

How the Experience Feels for Travelers

The reviews reveal that guides are a highlight, described as “very nice and helpful,” which makes a big difference when navigating busy spots and managing expectations. Holly’s comment, “Great tour guide and group!”, also hints at the importance of the company and group dynamics in making the day enjoyable.

Linda’s experience offers a more nuanced perspective—she appreciated the “kayaking” but was disappointed that the spots felt overly touristy and that the coral reefs were “all dead.” This points to one of the tour’s potential drawbacks: popularity can lead to crowded spots, and environmental degradation might be visible in some areas.

Despite that, the value of this tour is clear. For $33, including hotel transfers and a guided experience**, it offers a practical way to see some of the Philippines’ most iconic island features** without the need for a longer, more expensive trip.

Practical Tips for Your Day

• Bring sunscreen and wear a sun hat—the sun can be intense on the water.
• Pack a change of clothes if you plan to snorkel or swim.
• Although snorkel gear isn’t included, bringing your own or renting separately is recommended for the best experience.
• Remember your passport—all visitors pass through airport-style security.
• Be aware that alcohol and drugs are not allowed during the tour.
• The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, so plan accordingly if that applies.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a well-organized, affordable day out on the water, especially if they’re based in Cavite and not keen on traveling to Palawan or El Nido itself. It suits those who enjoy natural scenery, simple adventure activities, and appreciate guided tours that handle planning and logistics. If you’re looking for an authentic, photo-worthy experience with a good guide, this tour delivers.

However, if you’re a snorkeler looking for vibrant reefs or a seeker of quiet, secluded beaches, you might find the spots a little crowded or battered. For travelers with limited time but a desire to see iconic Philippine island scenery, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

El Nido Tour C offers an accessible, enjoyable way for visitors in Cavite to experience some of the Philippines’ most striking coastal sights. With its reasonable price, professional guides, and visits to famous landmarks like Helicopter Island and Hidden Beach, it provides great value for those wanting a taste of island life without the long travel to Palawan.

Though some spots may feel crowded and reefs are not as pristine as in distant resorts, the tour delivers on stunning scenery, local stories, and fun snorkeling opportunities. It’s perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, light adventure, and cultural interest.

Whether you’re a first-timer to the Philippines or just looking for an easy day out, this trip will likely leave you with plenty of memorable views—and perhaps the desire to explore more of the country’s natural beauty in the future.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $33 per person, which includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a convenient and affordable option.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 8 hours, with available starting times that you can check when booking.

What should I wear and bring?
Wear swimwear, bring a change of clothes, and a sun hat. Remember to apply sunscreen before and during the trip for protection from the sun.

Is snorkeling gear included?
No, snorkeling masks and snorkels are not included, so you should bring your own or rent separately.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for more travelers.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or travelers under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

What are the main attractions?
The key sights are Helicopter Island, Hidden Beach, and snorkeling at Talisay and Star Beaches.

Do I need to bring my passport?
Yes, you should bring your passport, as all visitors must pass through airport-style security.

In summary, if you’re after a cost-effective, guided day of island hopping and beach fun in Cavite, El Nido Tour C is a solid choice. It offers the chance to see iconic scenery, enjoy some snorkeling, and learn about local stories—all without breaking the bank or spending days traveling. Just be prepared for some crowds and the environmental state of the reefs, and you’ll have a memorable, authentic Philippine adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: