5D4N Puerto Princesa & El Nido Experience

Discover the 5D4N Puerto Princesa & El Nido Experience: An Honest Review

Planning a trip to Palawan? This 5-day guided tour promises a well-rounded glimpse of Puerto Princesa’s underground river and the stunning islands of El Nido. While it’s designed to be a convenient package that handles transfers, accommodations, and meals, there’s more to consider than just the itinerary. We’ve examined reviews, tour details, and what makes this package appealing — and what might give you pause.

What we love about this experience: the inclusion of the UNESCO-listed underground river, the focus on small-group touring, and the chance to see iconic lagoons and beaches without the hassle of booking everything separately. A potential drawback? The long transfers and some mixed reviews about guide quality and organization suggest it’s not perfect for everyone. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive, hassle-free Palawan adventure—especially if you value guided ease and good value.

Key Points

• All-in-one convenience: transfers, accommodations, and most meals included.
• Highlights: UNESCO underground river, island-hopping, lagoons, and beaches.
• Small group size: enhances personalized experience but limits flexibility.
• Travel time: long transfer from El Nido to Puerto Princesa on Day 5.
• Review insights: knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery appreciated, but some organizational hiccups noted.
• Best for: those wanting a structured, guided way to see Palawan’s top sights.

An In-Depth Look at the 5D4N Puerto Princesa & El Nido Tour

What the Tour Offers at a Glance

Priced at $299 per person, this tour aims to give a seamless experience of Palawan’s most famous sites over 5 days. From the UNESCO World Heritage-listed underground river to the shimmering lagoons and outsized beaches of El Nido, the trip combines natural wonders with the convenience of packaged logistics. It’s designed for small groups, capped at 20 travelers, which is a plus for those craving more attention from guides and a more intimate vibe.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The inclusion of hotel pickup, transfers, and most meals makes it a practical choice for travelers who prefer not to juggle bookings or worry about transportation logistics. The tour also offers group discounts and mobile tickets, streamlining the booking process—plus, reviews consistently mention how easy Corazon Travel and Tours makes the process.

Day 1: Arrival and Puerto Princesa

Your adventure begins at Puerto Princesa Airport, where a representative from Corazon Travel will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. The first night is in Puerto Princesa, offering a comfortable start and a chance to relax after your journey. The initial stop at Mabuhay Lounge is quick but reassuring, setting a tone of smooth organization.

Day 2: From Puerto Princesa to El Nido, with a UNESCO Highlight

The day kicks off with a visit to Buenavista View Deck, a quick stop for panoramic views of Ulugan Bay. This is a great photo op and a welcome taste of Palawan’s natural beauty. Then, the tour’s highlight: the Puerto Princesa Underground River. This UNESCO site is a must-see. The tour involves boarding a kayak with an audio guide explaining the cave’s features, giving a memorable glimpse into one of the region’s most impressive natural formations.

From there, the journey continues with a roughly six-hour transfer to El Nido. The drive itself is an experience, with the landscape transforming from bustling city to lush rural scenery, offering a taste of Palawan’s diverse environment.

Day 3: Island-Hopping: Lagoons and Beaches

The third day is dedicated to two popular island-hopping tours in Bacuit Bay. The day starts with the Big Lagoon, known for its towering limestone cliffs and emerald waters. Expect some time to marvel at the scenery and take photos. Next, you’ll visit the Secret Lagoon, accessible only through a small cave, adding a sense of adventure to the day.

Later, the group explores Simizu Island, a small but lively island package filled with snorkeling opportunities and scenic views. Midday usually involves a stop at Seven Commando Beach, which has a long stretch of soft sand, perfect for lounging or a quick walk. Reviewers mention that despite some crowds, this beach offers a peaceful break after a busy morning on the water.

Payong-Payong Beach on Miniloc Island is another highlight, offering both swimming and relaxing options. Tour guides generally do their best to cater to different preferences, although some reviews note that the midday crowds can be inconvenient.

Day 4: Secluded Beaches and Iconic Landmarks

Day four takes you further afield, with visits to Hidden Beach, worth the long boat ride for its secluded vibe and pristine sands. The raw, rugged appeal impresses those seeking solitude or a peek into unspoiled nature.

The Matinloc Shrine, an abandoned spiritual site surrounded by dramatic cliffs, offers both scenic and historical intrigue. Despite its neglect, it remains a favorite for its panoramic views and unique atmosphere.

Next, a stop at Secret Lagoon (again, a highlight for many) reveals how limestone cliffs conceal this hidden gem. The day wraps up at Helicopter Island (Dilumacad Island), renowned for its distinctive shape and relaxing beaches, with glowing reviews about its soft sand and tranquil waters.

Tapiutan Beach rounds out the day as a quiet spot for snorkeling or simply unwinding, with many appreciating its less crowded environment.

Day 5: Return to Puerto Princesa

The final leg involves a 6-hour transfer back to Puerto Princesa. The journey can be lengthy, so travelers should plan their flights accordingly. The tour concludes with a drop-off at the airport, leaving you with a full memory of Palawan’s diverse landscapes.

What the Included and Not Included Mean for You

Included in the package are hotel pickups and drop-offs, all relevant taxes and fees (including environmental and national park charges), and most meals (breakfasts and lunches). This setup makes budgeting easier; there are no surprise costs, and you can focus on soaking in the scenery.

Not included are some meals not specified (like dinners or additional snacks), souvenir photos, and optional extras. If you’re keen on snapping professional shots or purchasing souvenirs, plan accordingly.

Transportation and Group Size

The long transfers—especially on Day 2 and 5—are unavoidable but are optimized for comfort with air-conditioned vans. The small group size (maximum 20 travelers) enhances interaction and ensures guides can provide more personalized attention, a feature many reviewers appreciated.

Guide Quality and Organization

While the tour offers a solid lineup of sights, reviews reveal mixed experiences with guides. Some praise knowledgeable guides who are attentive and helpful, while others mention organizational hiccups, such as delayed pickups or insufficient explanations during transfers. For instance, one reviewer noted a guide who didn’t clarify transfer details, leading to some confusion.

Value for Money

At $299, the tour offers a good value considering all major sites, transfers, accommodations, and most meals are covered. For travelers who prefer not to piece together their own itinerary, this package simplifies logistics without sacrificing iconic sights.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This 5-day Puerto Princesa & El Nido experience genuinely suits travelers who want a structured, guided look at Palawan’s top highlights. If you enjoy small-group tours, appreciate having logistics taken care of, and are comfortable with long transfers, this trip offers a solid mix of adventure and relaxation.

However, if you’re seeking a more flexible or bespoke experience, or if guide organization is a key concern, you might want to explore options with more personalized service or private tours. The shared nature and the itinerary’s packed schedule mean pace is brisk, and some minor organizational issues could impact your enjoyment.

This tour delivers breathtaking scenery and memorable experiences at a reasonable price point. It balances convenience with adventure and is most suitable for first-time visitors eager to explore Palawan’s best in a comprehensive, guided format.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting point for this tour?
The tour begins with hotel pickup at Puerto Princesa Airport at 2:00 pm.

Are all transfers included?
Yes, round-trip transfers between Puerto Princesa Airport and your hotel, as well as transportation between Puerto Princesa and El Nido, are included.

How many meals are included?
Four breakfasts and three lunches are provided as part of the package.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a packaged tour, so adjustments are limited. However, the itinerary covers key highlights with a structured schedule.

What should I bring for island-hopping days?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, waterproof bag for valuables, and a camera. Basic snorkeling gear is often included, but check with the tour provider.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
Moderate physical fitness is recommended, especially for boat rides and transfers. Elderly travelers should consider their comfort with long travel days.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours may be canceled in poor weather conditions, and only the fees for canceled tours are refunded. Check weather forecasts beforehand.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Reviews vary; some travelers praise guides for their friendliness and knowledge, while others feel explanations could be improved.

What is the group size?
Maximum 20 travelers, creating a more intimate atmosphere and better guide interaction.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, but most bookings are made on average 42 days in advance. Confirm availability if planning on short notice.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a hassle-free way to experience Palawan’s most stunning sights, this 5-day guided tour offers a good balance of convenience, scenery, and value. While organizational hiccups and long transfers are worth noting, many travelers find the trip’s highlights—like the underground river and lagoons—absolutely worth it.

Ideal for first-timers or those who prefer a guided experience that covers all the major spots, this package ensures you spend less time planning and more time enjoying the breathtaking views Palawan has to offer. Just remember to keep expectations flexible and bring your sense of adventure!