El Nido Tour B – Private Tour with Lunch (Full Day)

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, limestone cliffs, and unspoiled beaches, El Nido Tour B promises a day packed with natural beauty and memorable moments. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and detailed itineraries suggest it offers a balanced mix of adventure, history, and relaxation—perfect for travelers eager to see some of Palawan’s best sights without the hassle of planning each detail.

What I love about this experience? First, the chance to witness Cathedral Cave’s impressive limestone formations illuminated by sunlight is truly breathtaking. Second, the tour’s focus on cultural insights at Cudugnon Cave, home to artifacts from early Chinese trade, adds a fascinating historical layer. Lastly, the idyllic stops on Snake Island, Pangalusian Island, and Pinagbuyutan Island promise postcard-worthy views and ample space for swimming and lounging.

However, one consideration worth mentioning is the group size. While advertised as a private tour, some reviews mention larger groups than expected, which could affect the feeling of exclusivity. It’s also a full day, so travelers should be prepared for a long, active itinerary.

This tour is best suited for those who want to balance sightseeing with downtime, appreciate natural beauty, and enjoy a bit of history. If you’re after a relaxed yet adventurous day with beautiful scenery and some snorkel spots, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Stunning limestone formations at Cathedral Caves make for awe-inspiring photo opportunities.
• Cultural insights at Cudugnon Cave reveal early trade connections and archaeology.
• Snaking sandbar of Snake Island offers a unique walking experience over crystal-clear waters.
• Idyllic beaches at Pangalusian and Pinagbuyutan Islands are perfect for lounging and swimming.
• All-day adventure includes diverse stops, combining nature, history, and relaxation.
• Good value for the price of $148, with lunch, environmental fees, and transfers included.
• Group size variability might affect the sense of privacy, despite the tour being marketed as private.
• Weather dependence is a factor—poor conditions could lead to cancellations or rescheduling.

The Experience in Detail

El Nido Tour B runs approximately 7 to 8 hours, making it a full-day adventure that hits the highlights of Palawan’s stunning coastline and islands. Starting with a pickup (within a 2km radius of town, with extra charges for resorts and outlying areas), the tour offers a comfortable way to begin your day without the hassle of logistics.

Snake Island: The Winding Sandbar

Your first stop is Snake Island, also called Vigan Island, famed for its long, winding sandbar that seems to snake out into the sea. The reviews suggest this is a highlight, with visitors spending about 1.5 hours exploring and walking along this natural spectacle. The thin strip of sand creates great photo opportunities and a fun walk through shallow waters, especially during low tide. One reviewer mentioned being disappointed if the group feels crowded—that’s something to consider if you prefer a quieter experience.

Pangalusian Island: White Sands and Reefs

Next up is Pangalusian Island, with its 750-meter stretch of powdery white sand. It’s well known for stunning sunrise and sunset views, making it a favorite for relaxing and soaking up the scenery. Snorkeling near the coral reefs is a big draw here, with many guests commenting on the vibrancy of marine life close to the shore. The free admission makes it a good value, and spending about 1.5 hours here allows plenty of time to snorkel, sunbathe, or just enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

Cudugnon Cave: A Window into the Past

The Cudugnon Cave is more than just a scenic stop—it’s a peek into the past, with artifacts from the Sung Dynasty (960-1279 AD) discovered inside. This suggests early trade links with China, giving the site an archaeological significance. Visitors typically spend around 1.5 hours exploring and absorbing the historical context. A reviewer described it as “an interesting archaeological site,” emphasizing its historical importance rather than just scenery. The cave’s interior offers a cool respite from the sun and is quite accessible.

Cathedral Caves: Limestone Majesty

The Cathedral Caves impress with their imposing limestone formations shaped over years by wind and water. The entrance opens to a large cavern, perfect for photos and exploration. This stop is especially appreciated for its natural grandeur and the sense of scale. About 1.5 hours is spent here, making it a key highlight of the tour. The reviews mention the “spectacular limestone shapes” which seem to glow under the sun, adding a dramatic touch to the experience.

Pinagbuyutan Island: Relaxation and Scenic Beauty

The last stop is Pinagbuyutan Island, renowned for its white sandy beaches and clear waters. This is a prime spot for unwinding after a busy morning of sightseeing. The limestone cliffs and pristine beaches offer a perfect backdrop for swimming, lounging, or taking photos. Spending around 1.5 hours here allows enough time for a relaxed break. Many reviews praise this island for its beautiful scenery and calm atmosphere.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes pickup within a 2km radius in El Nido town, an environmental fee valid for 14 days, and a lunch with soda and water. The lunch typically consists of local dishes, providing an authentic taste of Palawan.

Extras such as kayaks, snorkel masks, and snorkels are available at additional costs, with kayaks costing P400 and snorkeling sets P100. If you’re staying outside town or at island resorts like Cauayan or Matinloc, expect extra charges (around P2000 pesos for resort pickups). This flexibility allows you to customize your experience, though it’s worth planning for these costs in advance.

Considerations

While the tour market emphasizes a private experience, some reviewers have noticed larger groups—up to 25 people—challenging the sense of intimacy. If privacy is a priority, confirm with the provider beforehand. Also, the day is quite full, so be prepared for a lot of walking, boat rides, and outdoor activity.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying

• Book in advance, especially during peak season, as this tour is highly popular (average booking 58 days ahead).
• Arrive prepared with sun protection, water, and a sense of adventure.
• Bring your snorkeling gear if you want to see the reefs more closely—it’s affordable, but you can also rent on the day.
• Be mindful of the weather; cancellations do happen if conditions are poor, so keep flexible.
• Confirm pickup locations and times to avoid surprises or extra charges.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This full-day private experience suits travelers who appreciate a mix of nature, history, and leisure. It’s ideal for those who want a curated, comfortable day with personalized attention—though be aware of the potential for larger groups. Snorkelers and beach lovers will find plenty to enjoy, and history buffs will value the archaeological stop at Cudugnon Cave.

If you’re after an active, scenic, and culturally interesting day in El Nido, this tour offers great value and diverse sights. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking for a well-rounded adventure that showcases the best of Palawan’s natural and cultural treasures.

FAQ

• Is pickup included? Yes, within a 2km radius of El Nido town. Extra charges apply for resorts outside town or island resorts.
• How long is the tour? Approximately 7 to 8 hours.
• What is the price per person? $148, which includes lunch, environmental fees, and boat transfers.
• Can I bring my own snorkeling gear? Yes, and snorkeling sets are available for P100 if you prefer renting.
• Are there any additional costs? Yes, kayaks (P400), snorkel masks (P100), and extra pickup charges for remote resorts.
• How many people participate? It’s a private tour, but reviews mention groups of up to 25—check with the provider for privacy preferences.
• What are the main highlights? Cathedral Caves, Snake Island, Cudugnon Cave, Pangalusian Island, and Pinagbuyutan Island.
• Is the tour suitable for children? Most travelers can participate, but consider the full-day duration and outdoor activity level.

El Nido Tour B offers a well-balanced day of stunning scenery, cultural insights, and leisurely beach time. Its highlights—especially Cathedral and Cudugnon Caves, along with Snake Island’s unique sandbar—make it a memorable way to experience Palawan’s natural beauty.

While some reviewers note larger than expected groups, the overall value for a full-day private tour is excellent, especially considering the included lunch and environmental fees. It’s best suited for travelers who want an adventure packed with varied sights without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

If you’re looking to tick off some of Palawan’s most iconic spots with a knowledgeable guide and a flexible itinerary, this tour should definitely be on your list. Just remember, weather can influence the day’s flow, so keep a flexible attitude and prepare for a fantastic journey through the islands.

Overall, El Nido Tour B combines stunning landscapes, intriguing history, and relaxing beaches into one memorable day—perfect for those seeking a comprehensive taste of Palawan’s natural wonders.