El Nido Tour A – Group w/ Buffet Lunch

Imagine spending a day exploring the most iconic spots in El Nido, Philippines—crystal-clear lagoons, pristine beaches, and secret hideaways—all packed into one well-organized tour. That’s exactly what El Nido Tour A offers. Though we haven’t personally taken the trip, our deep dive into traveler reviews and the tour details paints a vivid picture of what you can expect. So, let’s break down this popular excursion and see if it’s the right fit for your island adventures.

What drew us to this tour? First, the stunning scenery at spots like Big Lagoon and Shimizu Island is hard to beat. Second, the value for money, with a comprehensive itinerary, a buffet lunch, and multiple stops for swimming and relaxing. Third, the friendly, professional guides seem to make all the difference—many reviews highlight their helpfulness, safety focus, and local knowledge.

A potential consideration is the crowded nature of the tour, especially during peak seasons. With groups up to 50 travelers, some may find the experience less private or quiet. However, if you’re after a lively, social boat trip with plenty of sights, this could actually be a plus. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a balanced mix of sightseeing, beach lounging, and a bit of adventure in a friendly group setting.

Key Points

• Stunning Stops: Big Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Secret Lagoon, Payong-Payong Beach, and Seven Commando Beach each offer unique views and experiences.
• Inclusive and Affordable: At just around $45, you get entrance fees (except at Big Lagoon), a buffet lunch, and a well-structured day.
• Expert Guides: Well-reviewed guides like Albert and Willy make the experience safer and more enjoyable.
• Activity Options: Kayaking and snorkeling are available, but some reviews mention potential limitations or safety concerns.
• Crowd Factor: Expect a lively, occasionally crowded atmosphere—patience is helpful.
• Weather Flexibility: Free cancelation up to 24 hours in advance ensures peace of mind if weather turns poor.

Big Lagoon kicks off the tour with its iconic narrow waterway surrounded by towering dark limestone cliffs. The water here is a vivid blue, perfect for kayaking and photos. Reviewers like Kadir Yuceayvaz rave about how “no words can describe” its beauty, and many mention how enjoyable kayaking in this calm, scenic spot is. However, the entrance fee of P200 isn’t included, so be prepared to pay that on-site.

Next, Shimizu Island is where most travelers enjoy their lunch. The island’s serene setting, with its white sands and clear waters, makes for a lovely picnic spot. Reviewers highlight the chance to snorkel with turtles and enjoy the island’s scenic views—an absolute highlight of the day. Plus, the food is a big plus; the buffet lunch is often described as “delicious” with good variety, perfect for refueling after a morning of exploration.

Payong-Payong Beach offers a stunning, picture-perfect stretch of white sand backed by dramatic limestone cliffs. Many visitors enjoy lounging here for 1.5 hours, soaking in the sun and taking photos. Since entrance is included and the waters are clear, it’s an excellent spot for relaxing or a quick swim.

Secret Lagoon is a true hidden gem, accessible through a small cave, adding an adventurous touch. Reviewers love this spot for its exclusivity and beauty—”a perfect hideaway”—but note that access involves navigating a tight cave passage, which might be tricky for some. It’s mostly a sightseeing stop, with some choosing to swim or take photos.

Finally, Seven Commando Beach wraps up the day with its expansive white sands and turquoise waters. The beach bar is a hit, providing refreshments and a chance to unwind before heading back. Many mention how peaceful and scenic this spot is, ideal for a final photo op or a gentle stroll.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

Included in the tour is a buffet lunch on the beach, environmental and entrance fees (except for Big Lagoon), and pickup in El Nido town. The convenience of a mobile ticket and pickup from town makes planning easier. The admission fee of P200 for Big Lagoon and the environmental fee of P400 (valid for 14 days) are extra, but they’re reasonable considering the overall experience.

Extras you might want to consider include snorkeling gear (P100 per set), kayaks (P400 per kayak, suitable for two), and drinks. Many reviewers appreciate the guides’ attentiveness, but a few noted that some boat drivers might need more experience parking at stops—something to keep in mind for those sensitive to logistics.

Timing starts at 9:00 am, with the entire trip lasting around 7 to 8 hours. If you’re a morning person eager to maximize your island day, this suits well. Note that tours operate near public transportation and most travelers can participate, with a maximum group size of 50.

The Experience: From the Good to the Not-So-Good

Many guests, like Archie and Christopher, emphasize the professionalism and warmth of guides like Albert and Willy, who made the day flow smoothly while ensuring safety. Reviewers mention how guides helped take memorable photos and adjusted schedules based on sight conditions, which shows a flexible, attentive approach.

The scenery at each stop is consistently praised. “Big Lagoon is truly breathtaking,” says one reviewer, and “the view of the mountains from the hotel is unforgettable,” adds another. The boat itself, often a double-decker, offers good visibility for sightseeing and ample space to relax.

However, some downsides surface in reviews—chiefly regarding crowds and safety. For example, at some stops, walking in water over large rocks can be hazardous, and kayak rentals are optional, but non-renters cannot leave the boat to snorkel. A few travelers expressed concerns about boat driver experience at parking, although this seems to be an isolated issue.

The lunch on the beach is consistently highlighted as a highlight—fresh, tasty, and filling—adding great value to the overall package. Guests also appreciate the friendly staff, with many noting their flexibility and helpfulness, especially for elderly or less mobile travelers.

The Value Proposition

At around $45 per person, this tour offers a lot—multiple stops, a buffet lunch, and entrance fees included. Considering the quantity and quality of sights, many travelers find it a cost-effective way to see El Nido’s top spots in a single day. The inclusion of key attractions like Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, and Seven Commando Beach, plus the opportunity for kayaking and snorkeling, make it a well-rounded experience.

The guided element adds reassurance, especially for those unfamiliar with the area or new to island hopping. Plus, the flexibility to cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the trip is a big plus.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a full day of scenic island hopping, especially those who value good value for money and friendly guides. It suits groups, families, and solo travelers alike, especially since it offers a lively, social atmosphere. If you’re after peace and quiet or a private tour, you might prefer a different option.

El Nido Tour A is a solid choice for anyone wanting to experience the best of El Nido’s famous spots without the hassle of planning each stop individually. The itinerary offers a well-balanced mix of sightseeing, relaxing on beautiful beaches, and trying fun activities like kayaking and snorkeling—though some safety considerations exist.

The delicious buffet lunch and expert guides elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing, making it a memorable day out. The crowds might be a consideration, but with patience, many find the vibrant energy part of the fun.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive, fun-filled day on the water that balances adventure with relaxation, Tour A is hard to beat—especially at this price point. Just come prepared with waterproof bags, water shoes, and a sense of adventure.

Is pickup included? Yes, pickup is offered for guests staying in El Nido town, simplifying your day.

What is the duration of the tour? The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am.

Are entrance fees included? Entrance to the lagoons and Payong-Payong Beach are included, but Big Lagoon requires an additional P200 fee paid on-site.

Can I snorkel or kayak? Yes, snorkeling gear (P100) and kayaks (P400 per kayak) are available, but some reviews mention limited options or safety concerns.

Is the tour suitable for elderly travelers? Most travelers can participate, and guides like Albert are praised for their helpfulness, making it accessible for seniors.

How many people are on the tour? The maximum group size is 50, which can create a lively, energetic atmosphere.

What’s the food like? The buffet lunch on the beach is often described as tasty, with good variety, making it a highlight of the day.

What about weather cancellations? Tours can be canceled due to poor weather, with a full refund or rescheduling offered.

Is this a good value for money? Absolutely—considering the multiple stops, food, and guided service, many find the price reasonable for a full day of exploring El Nido’s best spots.