Siargao Island Hopping & land Tour

A Practical Look at the Siargao Island Hopping & Land Tour

If you’re heading to Siargao, a full-day island hopping and inland exploration might just be the best way to soak up the island’s highlights in one go. For around $127 per person, this 8 to 10-hour adventure offers visits to famous spots like Naked Island, Guyam Island, Daku Island, plus cultural and scenic stops such as Cloud 9, the Coconut Tree View Decks, and Magpupungko’s natural pools. With pickup included in General Luna and all transportation sorted, this tour takes much of the guesswork out of planning—a real plus if you want to focus on enjoying rather than organizing.

What we appreciate most about this experience is the convenience of a guided trip, which allows you to relax and take in the scenery while a local guide—who’s often praised for being friendly and knowledgeable—shares insights into the sites and local culture. Plus, having all boat rental fees and entry tickets included simplifies the cost structure, preventing nasty surprises along the way.

However, a word of caution: at this price point, some travelers feel it’s a bit pricey compared to similar tours, especially if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more flexible, DIY approach. Also, since the tour involves visiting several spots in a long day, be prepared for an active itinerary that might not suit everyone’s pace.

This tour suits travelers who want a rundown of Siargao, especially those eager for Instagram-worthy vistas, cultural exposure, and some adventure. If you’re comfortable with a full day on the water and eager to cover major highlights with a guide handling logistics, this trip is worth considering.

Key Points

• All-inclusive convenience with pickup, boat rentals, and entrance fees
• Visiting iconic sites like Naked Island, Daku Island, and Cloud 9
• In-depth guide commentary enhances understanding and appreciation
• Great for photo lovers—many stops are perfect for capturing memories
• Long day with diverse activities, suitable for active travelers
• Mixed reviews on price, but overall positive experiences with guides and sights

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Guyam Island: The Photogenic Little Gem

Our journey begins at Guyam Island, the only privately owned island in General Luna. Shaped like a Giant Clam, it’s a compact spot packed with fun amenities—think basketball courts, balancing ropes, and plenty of Instagrammable corners. You’ll have about an hour here, which gives enough time to snap some pictures, kick back on the sandy shores, or explore the tiny stores selling snacks and drinks. Many reviews praise the friendliness of the guide and the ability to stop for photos, making this a highlight for many.

Daku Island: Culture, Cuisine, and White Sand

Next, we visit Daku Island, which offers a village atmosphere and a sprawling stretch of powdery white sand. Daku means “Big” in Visayan, and it truly lives up to its name. Here, you’ll often find the tour groups having lunch—some tours include cooking services, turning this into a mini cultural experience where you can sample local flavors while relaxing in a friendly community setting. You can also swim, snorkel, or stroll around to feel the island vibe. Reviewers like Dexacilyn mention how the guide took extra care to make the kids enjoy the space, highlighting the personal touch that guides can bring.

Naked Island: A Sandbar with No Trees, Just Sand

Naked Island earns its name because it’s completely devoid of vegetation—just white sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s a world-class scenic spot where you can swim, snorkel, or just stroll along the sandbar. Many find this to be a highlight, with the stark simplicity providing a perfect photo backdrop. One reviewer called it a “sand bar that you can truly appreciate,” emphasizing its status as a must-see on this tour.

Cloud 9: The Surfing Legend

No trip to Siargao is complete without stopping at the famous Cloud 9, known as the surfing capital of the Philippines. Whether you’re a surfer or just a spectator, you’ll enjoy the boardwalk and cottages where you can watch surfers in action. It’s a free stop, but if you’re interested in lessons, there are beginner-friendly spots nearby. Many travelers love how this spot captures the island’s energetic vibe, and it’s perfect for those wanting to see the surfing scene up close.

Coconut Trees Viewpoints: The Classic Siargao Panorama

Next, we visit Coconut Mountain View and Maasin Coconut Road—two spots perfect for photographers and Instagram fans. The endless line of coconut trees is iconic, and these viewpoints offer spectacular panoramic views. We loved the idea of buying a bamboo straw as a souvenir here—small touches that add to the experience. Expect about 30 minutes at each spot for photos and soaking in the views.

Maasin River: The Iconic Bent Palm Tree and Rope Swing

The Maasin River is famous for its bent palm tree, often called the “Instagram tree,” and offers opportunities for canoe rides and rope swings. It’s a lively spot for adventure lovers and photographers alike. Many reviews mention the ropeswings and canoe rides as fun extras, with one reviewer highlighting how it’s a great place for adventurous guests who love a bit of thrill and natural beauty.

Magpupungko Rock Pools: Nature’s Own Swimming Pools

The tour ends at Magpupungko, where nature-made swimming pools await during low tide. The pools are crystal clear, and the rock formations are stunning. You’ll want to arrive during low tide to fully enjoy walking around the rock beds and exploring the magnificent formations. This spot is a favorite among visitors, with one reviewer emphasizing “nature made swimming pools” as a highlight, and the natural beauty here is undeniable.

Practical Details and Tips

The transportation in this tour is a key benefit—a boat is included for island hopping, with all fees covered, so you don’t have to worry about extra costs or complicated logistics. The tour starts early at 7:00 am and lasts most of the day, so be prepared for a long but rewarding adventure.

The group size is private, meaning only your party participates, which adds a layer of comfort and flexibility. The guide is often praised for being friendly, engaging, and providing insightful commentary, which enhances the overall experience. Based on reviews, many people appreciated the photo opportunities and the safety gear like life vests.

The cost of $127 per person is somewhat higher than some other tours, especially considering that meals and drinks are not included. That said, the value comes from the hassle-free logistics, the guided commentary, and the variety of sites covered in a single day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves photography, scenic viewpoints, and culture, this tour hits many of those marks. It’s ideal for travelers who want to maximize their time on Siargao without the stress of planning each stop. Families, active couples, or groups looking for a comprehensive experience will find this trip especially worthwhile.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more flexible, DIY day, you might find the price a bit steep—though the convenience and guided insights are hard to beat for many. Also, if you’re not comfortable with long days or multiple activities, this could be somewhat tiring.

The Sum Up

This Siargao Island Hopping & Land Tour offers an accessible, organized way to see many of the island’s most beautiful and iconic spots. With all logistics handled—from boat rides to entrance fees—your focus can stay on enjoying the scenery and snapping memorable photos. The guides’ friendly attitude and informative commentary add meaningful context to each stop, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

While the price may give some pause, the convenience, variety, and quality of sites visited make it a worthwhile investment for those eager to explore with ease. It’s best suited for travelers who prioritize guidance, comfort, and a rundown of Siargao’s highlights, rather than those seeking a purely budget experience.

If your goal is to leave with fantastic photos, a good understanding of local culture, and a well-rounded taste of Siargao’s natural beauty, this tour could be just the ticket.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers pickup and drop-off in General Luna, all boat rental fees, entrance and environmental fees, and a guide who provides commentary and assistance throughout the day.

How long does the tour last?
It typically lasts 8 to 10 hours, starting at 7:00 am, allowing you to see many sights without feeling rushed.

Are food or drinks included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so you may want to bring snacks or plan to purchase refreshments at stops like Daku Island.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
It’s generally suitable for most travelers, but keep in mind the long hours and active activities like swimming, walking, and boat rides. Those with mobility issues may want to consider this.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, there might be some flexibility to adjust the stops based on your preferences, but it’s best to confirm with the operator beforehand.

How about the guide’s language skills?
Most reviews mention the guide providing in-depth commentary, though some note limited English proficiency. Clarifying language preferences before booking might be helpful.

What is the best time to take this tour?
Starting early allows you to visit sites like Magpupungko during their optimal low tide times and avoid the midday crowds. The tour is weather dependent, so clear, calm days are ideal.

This comprehensive tour is a solid choice for travelers ready to cover Siargao’s must-see sites in one memorable day, especially if they value guided insights, convenience, and beautiful scenery.