From Puerto Princesa: Day Trip to El Nido and Island Hopping

Setting out on a day trip from Puerto Princesa to El Nido promises an unforgettable adventure. Travelers can explore stunning island landscapes, savor delicious meals, and enjoy the region’s natural beauty. With an early morning departure and convenient hotel pickup, this tour provides a seamless way to experience the renowned beauty of El Nido. From secluded lagoons to pristine beaches, the day’s itinerary ensures a memorable escape. What else can this excursion offer those seeking an extraordinary Palawan getaway?

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Key Points

This day trip from Puerto Princesa to El Nido takes approximately 20 hours, including 5 hours of island hopping.
Highlights include visiting Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Seven Commandos Beach, and Big Lagoon.
The tour provides pickup, transportation, all entry fees, swimming/snorkeling/kayaking gear, and meals.
Long driving times and potential overcrowding on boats are common criticisms, and vegetarian options are limited.
Overall tour rating is 3.6 out of 5 stars, with positive feedback on the guide and breathtaking natural landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

A day trip from Puerto Princesa to El Nido, including island hopping, is priced from $360.93 per group (up to 2) and lasts approximately 20 hours.

Pickup is available in downtown Puerto Princesa or within 15 kilometers of Puerto Princesa City Airport.

Travelers can opt for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund or choose the reserve now & pay later option.

Travelers can opt for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance or choose the reserve now & pay later option.

This excursion showcases some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the Philippines, offering the opportunity to explore secluded lagoons, pristine beaches, and lush islands.

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Itinerary and Activities

The day trip begins with an early morning pickup around 4 AM, followed by an approximately 5-hour drive from Puerto Princesa to El Nido.

Along the way, the tour makes stops at the Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Seven Commandos Beach, and the Big Lagoon.

The island hopping portion starts at 9 AM with up to 5 stops.

Lunch features a barbecue of pork, chicken, and seafood, along with a vegetable salad and fresh fruits.

The return to Puerto Princesa includes an optional dinner in El Nido, with arrival back by midnight.

Inclusions and Equipment

This day trip includes several key inclusions and equipment for the participants.

Hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as air-conditioned van transportation, are provided. All entry fees for the island tour are included.

Guests will have access to gear for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. Meals such as breakfast, lunch, and dinner are also provided, featuring barbecue pork, chicken, seafood, vegetable salad, and fresh fruits.

Toiletries and tips are included as well.

Travelers should bring their passport/ID, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water shoes, and cash for any additional expenses.

Important Information

Total driving time exceeds 10 hours, with approximately 5 hours each way.

The tour is subject to favorable weather conditions, and alternate activities may be offered if it’s canceled due to poor weather.

The trip isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments.

Recommended items include passport/ID, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water shoes, and cash.

Customers should note that the boats may be overcrowded, and vegetarian meal options may be limited.

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Customer Feedback

What do customers say about this day trip to El Nido?

Based on 31 reviews, the overall rating is 3.6 out of 5 stars.

While the guide receives high praise with a 4.3 rating, the long transport times and overcrowded boats are common criticisms, leading to a lower 2.8 rating for transportation.

Customers also note the value for money is just average, with a 3.2 rating.

Some praise the breathtaking islands and lagoons, but others express dissatisfaction with the limited vegetarian meal options.

Overall rating: 3.6/5
Guide rating: 4.3/5
Transportation rating: 2.8/5

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Tour Logistics

The day trip from Puerto Princesa to El Nido begins with an early morning pickup around 4 AM, followed by an approximately 5-hour drive to the destination.

The tour includes stops at various scenic locations, such as the Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Seven Commandos Beach, and the Big Lagoon.

Island hopping starts at 9 AM and can include up to 5 stops.

Lunch features a barbecue-style meal with pork, chicken, seafood, salad, and fresh fruits.

The return trip to Puerto Princesa may include an optional dinner stop in El Nido, with arrival back by midnight.

Highlights of the Experience

Although the long transit times to and from El Nido may be a drawback, the stunning natural beauty and unique experiences offered throughout the day trip make it a worthwhile adventure.

The tour includes:

Visiting the Secret Lagoon, a hidden gem with turquoise waters and towering limestone cliffs
Exploring Shimizu Island, known for its white sand beaches and diverse marine life
Kayaking through the Big Lagoon, a serene and awe-inspiring natural wonder surrounded by dramatic karst formations

These highlights, combined with a delicious local lunch and the opportunity to swim, snorkel, and relax, create an unforgettable day in the breathtaking Palawan region.

Tips for Booking and Preparation

When booking this day trip, it’s important to consider the long transit times, as the journey to and from El Nido can take up a significant portion of the day.

Ensure you have the necessary items, including your passport, swimwear, towel, and cash for any additional expenses. While the tour includes meals, it’s a good idea to pack snacks and water to stay hydrated during the long drive.

Plus, be mindful of the boat capacity and potential overcrowding, which has been a common complaint.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

You can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour package includes meals, but you’re welcome to supplement with your own snacks and beverages if desired.

Is There an Option to Visit More Islands During the Tour?

According to the tour overview, the island hopping portion of the day trip includes up to 5 stops. While the itinerary can’t be customized, the tour covers several popular islands and lagoons in the El Nido area.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear?

The tour includes all the necessary gear for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking, so you don’t need to bring your own snorkeling equipment. The tour provider will supply the required snorkeling gear as part of the package.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

There aren’t any specific discounts mentioned for children or seniors. The tour price is quoted per group of up to 2 people, so the cost wouldn’t change based on the age or number of participants in the group.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Focus on Specific Activities?

Yes, customers can customize the itinerary to focus on specific activities. The tour operator offers flexibility to adjust the island hopping stops and activities based on the group’s interests and preferences.

The Sum Up

Embark on an unforgettable day trip from Puerto Princesa to the breathtaking El Nido. Enjoy a scenic 5-hour drive, explore secluded lagoons and pristine beaches, savor delicious meals, and learn about the natural beauty of the islands. With hotel pickup, entry fees covered, and all the necessary equipment provided, this adventure promises a memorable experience filled with relaxation and wonder.

You can check availability for your dates here: