Planning a trip to the Philippines and wondering how to see the most stunning parts of Palawan without the hassle? The Palawan Expedition (El Nido to Coron) offers an all-inclusive, three-day escape into some of the most breathtaking islands, beaches, and reefs in this corner of paradise. While we haven’t personally experienced this tour, we’ve analyzed countless reviews and details to give you a clear picture of what you can expect.
What stands out is its comprehensive itinerary covering remote lagoons and secluded beaches, the value of including all meals and activities in the price, and the expert guides that many travelers rave about. That said, a few reviews hint at the importance of verifying your booking early and noting that weather can impact the experience. This trip is best suited for adventurers eager to explore untouched nature and willing to embrace the unpredictability of island life.
Key Points
- All-inclusive with meals and drinks simplifies planning and offers great value.
- Secluded beaches and islands provide peaceful, crowd-free experiences.
- Expert guides and attentive crew significantly enhance the trip’s quality.
- Remote stops like Balen Ben and Cagdanao Island are perfect for snorkeling and relaxing.
- Weather dependency can affect the schedule, so flexibility is key.
- Suitable for travelers seeking a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery.
A Genuine Look at the Palawan Expedition
The Palawan Expedition from El Nido to Coron is positioned as an ideal way to experience Palawan’s natural splendor in just three days. It’s crafted for travelers craving a hassle-free, immersive experience that combines stunning scenery, marine adventures, and a touch of local culture—all with the convenience of an all-inclusive package.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in El Nido
Why Choose This Tour?
One of the biggest highlights is the comprehensive itinerary that covers a wide range of islands and beaches, allowing you to see several highlights without the need to plan each stop independently. The price of $1,764 per person might seem steep at first glance, but considering it includes meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, beach huts, and all fees, many find it offers excellent value for a curated, stress-free adventure.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This tour appeals most to those who prefer guided experiences with all logistics handled for them, especially if they value comfortable facilities like beach huts with beds and the ability to snorkel at multiple locations. It’s also ideal for travelers who want to maximize their time discovering the islands, rather than worrying about transportation or meal arrangements.
The Detailed Itinerary Breakdown
Day 1: From El Nido to Linapacan and Novotak Island
The journey begins early, with a pickup around 8 a.m., setting the tone for a day packed with island hopping. The first stops are Sabang Beach in Linapacan, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and white sands, perfect for relaxing, swimming, or snorkeling. Reviewers appreciate the peaceful vibe and the surrounding lush greenery, which make it a quiet haven away from the crowds.
Next, you’ll visit Talking Beach, a place many describe as pristine and tranquil, ideal for sunbathing or exploring the underwater life. It’s a spot to soak up the scenery and enjoy some downtime. The third stop is Kalibangbangan Island—a tiny paradise with vibrant coral reefs and lush landscapes, offering excellent opportunities for underwater exploration.
Finally, the day wraps up at Novotak Island, which many reviewers highlight as a peaceful, untouched island with vibrant marine biodiversity. The day ends with you settling into your beach hut, equipped with a pillow and mattress, ensuring a comfortable night amid nature.
Day 2: Exploring Serene Islands and Reefs
The second day takes you to Cobra Island, known for its crystal-clear waters and colorful reefs—a snorkeler’s dream. Reviewers consistently mention the vibrant marine life and the serene atmosphere, making it one of the trip’s highlights.
Next, you’ll visit Kala Kala Island, praised for its beautiful white beaches and abundant marine life. Its calm waters are perfect for snorkeling or just relaxing under the sun.
The afternoon involves stops at Cagdanao Island and Balen Ben Island. Both are celebrated for their pristine beaches and vibrant reefs, offering more opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and unwinding. Travelers often comment on the peacefulness of these islands, making it a good escape from busy tourist spots.
Day 3: Culion and the Famous Sandbar
The final day begins with a stop at Arawa Beach in Culion, which reviewers describe as peaceful and perfect for swimming and sunbathing. It’s a quiet, scenic spot that allows for a relaxed morning before heading to the iconic Ditaytayan Sandbar.
This sandbar, only visible during low tide, is a crowd favorite. Many mention its long stretch of white sand surrounded by turquoise waters, a picture-perfect spot for swimming and soaking in the views. The inclusion of the sandbar is a thoughtful addition, allowing travelers to experience the unique natural phenomenon of a shifting landmass.
What Travelers Love About This Tour
Reviewers consistently praise the guides and crew, highlighting their knowledge, attentiveness, and genuine care. Many speak highly of Melvin, Jayson, and Aljun, describing them as super helpful, friendly, and fun—these personal touches really make a difference in creating a memorable experience.
The food and drinks are another stand-out feature. With full board meals, including vegetarian, vegan, and pescatarian options, the cuisine is often described as delicious and plentiful. Many mention the local dishes served, making the trip not just scenic but also flavorful.
Finally, the scenery itself continually impresses—white beaches, vibrant reefs, tranquil lagoons—and the chance to snorkel at multiple stops ensures you’re always close to underwater wildlife. Reviewers noted that many of these spots are less crowded, offering a more authentic, peaceful experience.
Practical Considerations
While the tour offers great value, it’s important to note the weather dependency. Some reviews mention that poor weather or unforeseen circumstances can impact the schedule—if the weather turns bad, the trip might be canceled or rerouted, with a full refund offered.
The group size appears to be limited to your booking, making it a more intimate experience compared to large-scale group tours. The full-day stops and beach huts with beds contribute to a comfortable, personalized feel.
Pricing at over $1,700 per person might seem high, but when you consider the inclusiveness—meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, and the remote, pristine locations—it’s a solid investment for a hassle-free adventure in Palawan.
Final Thoughts
This 3-day Palawan expedition offers a carefully curated taste of the archipelago’s best features. It’s perfect for travelers who want a guided, all-inclusive experience that combines beautiful scenery, marine activities, and cultural encounters.
The trip is well-suited for those who value comfort and convenience, especially if they prefer to avoid logistical headaches. The expert guides and attentive crew ensure that the trip runs smoothly, leaving travelers free to enjoy the spectacular surroundings.
However, the weather can influence the experience, so flexibility and patience are key. It is a good choice for adventurous spirits eager to explore multiple islands without planning each detail or for anyone looking for a relaxed, all-inclusive escape into Palawan’s natural wonders.
FAQ
Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and transport to all the stops listed in the itinerary, ensuring you don’t have to worry about logistics.
What is the duration of each stop?
Most stops are approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, giving enough time for swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing on the beaches.
Are meals vegetarian or vegan options available?
Yes, full board meals can be customized to vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, or no preference.
Does the tour include snorkeling equipment?
Yes, you will have access to snorkeling gear during the trip, allowing you to explore underwater life at each stop.
What’s the best way to deal with weather concerns?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.
Are beach huts comfortable?
Yes, each stop features beach huts equipped with sleeping accessories, pillows, and mattresses for a comfortable overnight stay.
Is this tour suitable for families?
Most travelers, including families, can participate, but it’s best to check with the tour provider if you have young children or specific needs.
What should I bring along?
Bring sun protection, waterproof gear, personal essentials, and any preferred snacks. The tour provides water and drinks.
How early should I book?
Most travelers book about 5 days in advance, but earlier booking is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
To sum it up, this Palawan expedition offers an incredible blend of natural beauty, culture, and hassle-free convenience. It’s an excellent choice for those eager to see Palawan’s finest, enjoy delicious local food, and relax amidst some of the most beautiful islands in the world. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, this trip promises a memorable adventure in the Philippines’ crown jewel.
More Tours in El Nido
More Tour Reviews in El Nido
- Private Seaplane Transfer from El Nido to Busuanga, coron Palawan
- Private Transportation from El Nido to Puerto Princesa Palawan
- Private Underground River Day Tour with Lunch from El Nido
- El Nido Tour D – Lagoons & Beaches Premium tour(Private / Shared)
- El Nido Tour A – Group w/ Buffet Lunch
- El Nido Full Day Tour C with Buffet Lunch
Still browsing? Here are more El Nido experiences we've covered recently
- Private Seaplane Transfer from El Nido to Busuanga, coron Palawan
- Private Transportation from El Nido to Puerto Princesa Palawan
- Private Underground River Day Tour with Lunch from El Nido
- El Nido Tour D – Lagoons & Beaches Premium tour(Private / Shared)
- El Nido Tour A – Group w/ Buffet Lunch
- El Nido Full Day Tour C with Buffet Lunch
- Palawan Expedition, El Nido to Coron 3 Days 2 Nights All Inclusiv
- Private Linapacan Island Day Trip with Buffet Lunch
- El Nido Tour A – Big Lagoon Premium Tour (Private / Shared)
- Linapacan Island Palawan 2 Days 1 Night Camping Expedition Trip
- El Nido Tour C Private
- Discover Scuba diving in El Nido