Shared El Nido Tour A

Thinking about exploring Palawan’s famous El Nido on a budget? This Shared El Nido Tour A offers a chance to see some of the area’s most breathtaking spots for just $25 per person. But, as with many budget tours, it’s a mixed bag—offering incredible views alongside some logistical quirks. We’ll unpack everything so you can decide if this island-hopping adventure is right for you.

What we love about this tour? First, the stunning scenery at spots like the Big Lagoon and Secret Lagoon promises unforgettable photo ops. Second, the variety of water activities—snorkeling, kayaking, and swimming—give you a chance to connect with nature in a hands-on way. Third, the lunch served amidst nature is both delicious and provides a true sense of being immersed in Palawan’s natural beauty. On the flip side, a possible drawback is the frequent delays and crowded boats, which could affect your overall experience.

This tour is perfect if you’re after a cost-effective way to see Palawan’s highlights and don’t mind a bit of unpredictability or crowds. It’s best suited for travelers who value scenic beauty, enjoy water activities, and are flexible with minor logistical hiccups. Let’s get into the details so you can see exactly what this tour offers—and what it might lack.

Key Points

• Affordable price point offers great value for the stunning scenery.
• Visit five top islands with opportunities for snorkeling and kayaking.
• Expect a full-day experience lasting around 6 to 7 hours.
• Crowded boats and delays have been noted by previous travelers.
• Includes lunch and guided assistance, but extra fees apply for entrance and gear rentals.
• Not suitable for people with mobility issues or those prone to seasickness.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Palawan’s El Nido with Tour A

The Shared El Nido Tour A is a popular choice for budget travelers wanting to tick off key sights in one go. It’s operated by Travelcart Tour Services, and the experience kicks off early in the morning at the Mabuhay Sports Bar, just a short walk from the wharf. This gathering point is where you’ll meet your guide, complete paperwork, and get briefed before heading out into the water.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $25 covers boat transfers, a licensed guide, boat crew, and a lunch served on one of the islands, along with life vests for safety. However, travelers should be aware of additional costs such as the environmental fee (400 PHP) and the Big Lagoon entrance fee (200 PHP), both payable on-site.

Extras like kayak rentals, snorkeling gear, and aqua gear are not included, so if you’re eager to explore underwater or paddle around, be prepared for extra charges. The meeting point fees and transportation to the starting location are also not covered, so plan accordingly.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

The tour visits five renowned spots:

• Big Lagoon: Famous for its towering limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters. It’s a highlight for many, offering stunning photo opportunities and a chance to kayak or swim.
• Secret Lagoon: True to its name, this spot is a more hidden gem accessible via a small opening in the rocks. It’s perfect for snorkeling and discovering marine life.
• Shimizu Island: Known for its coral reefs and abundant marine life, this island is a favorite for snorkelers. The reviews mention crowded boats here, with some travelers finding it challenging to find space to board or settle comfortably.
• Payong-Payong Island: Offers a quieter stretch of sand and more tranquility, ideal for relaxing after the busy mornings.
• Seven Commando Beach: A long, scenic stretch of sand perfect for a leisurely walk, swimming, or simply soaking in the views.

Water Activities and Scenic Highlights

Most travelers will enjoy snorkeling at Shimizu Island or paddling around Big Lagoon in kayaks. The views of limestone cliffs and secluded coves are truly breathtaking, especially during the mid-morning light. However, some reviews mention that the boats are often packed, leaving little room to move or talk to fellow travelers. One reviewer noted, “The boat was full to the top, and we had to practically swim from the beach to board,” emphasizing how crowded some parts of the tour can be.

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The Lunch Experience

The included lunch is served amidst the natural beauty of one of the islands, offering a welcome break. While the specific menu isn’t detailed, the scenery elevates the whole meal, making it a memorable part of the day. Travelers often appreciate this aspect, as it allows for a moment of relaxation and enjoyment after a morning of water activities.

Timing and Pacing

The tour typically lasts 6 to 7 hours, starting around 8:30-9:00 AM and wrapping up in the early afternoon. It’s a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and exploration, but the schedule can be affected by delays, as some reviewers have pointed out. The late departure (sometimes over an hour after scheduled) can cut into the time at each stop, which might be frustrating if you’re eager to maximize your experience.

The Realities Behind the Price

At just $25, this tour offers a surprisingly good value, especially considering the access to some of Palawan’s most gorgeous islands. But, the lower price does come with trade-offs: crowded boats, delays, and additional fees for entrance and gear. If you’re a budget traveler who’s flexible and doesn’t mind sharing space, this tour can give you an authentic taste of El Nido’s natural beauty without breaking the bank.

It’s worth noting that the extra costs can add up—the environmental fee and lagoon entrance are mandatory, and if you want to snorkel or kayak, those rentals are additional. Still, the overall expense remains quite reasonable compared to more private or luxury options.

Authentic Experiences and Common Complaints

From reviews, it’s clear that crowds are a common complaint—the boats tend to be full, and some travelers felt crowded or uncomfortable. One reviewer wrote, “We had to practically swim from the beach to board,” highlighting the tight space situation.

Delays also seem to be a recurring theme, with boats departing an hour or more late. This can cut into your precious island time, especially if you’re on a tight schedule. On the upside, the guides and crew are generally friendly, though some travelers felt the communication between booking platforms and the operator could be improved.

Despite these hiccups, many still find the scenery and water activities worth the effort. The highlight stops, especially Big Lagoon and Secret Lagoon, are genuinely stunning and live up to their reputation.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal if you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to see Palawan’s iconic islands. It’s perfect for travelers who:

• Don’t mind sharing boats and dealing with crowds
• Are flexible with timing and potential delays
• Want to enjoy multiple island stops in one day
• Are comfortable with additional costs for gear and entrance fees
• Seek an authentic, no-frills experience with plenty of photo opportunities

It’s less suitable for those with mobility issues, seasickness, or who prefer a more private, relaxed experience. The crowded boats and busy schedule might feel overwhelming for some, especially if you’re expecting a quiet retreat.

Final Thoughts

The Shared El Nido Tour A offers a budget-friendly gateway to experiencing Palawan’s most emblematic spots. While it isn’t without its flaws—crowds, delays, and extra charges—they do little to diminish the natural beauty of El Nido’s lagoons, beaches, and marine life.

If you’re after stunning scenery, a variety of water activities, and an authentic local vibe, this tour delivers. Be prepared for a lively, sometimes crowded day, and keep your expectations flexible. For travelers eager to explore the highlights without splurging, it’s a solid choice.

In contrast, if you prefer a more private, leisurely experience or have specific needs, you might want to consider other options or private tours. But for many, this adventure captures the essence of El Nido’s charm at an unbeatable price.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour doesn’t specify age restrictions, it’s generally suitable for children who can comfortably handle boat rides and water activities. Parents should consider the boat crowding and potential delays.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring your ID, some cash for additional fees, sunscreen, hat, and water. Since gear rentals aren’t included, consider bringing your own snorkeling mask or kayak if you prefer.

Are there any age or mobility restrictions?
Yes, this tour isn’t recommended for people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or those prone to seasickness. It’s also not suitable for unaccompanied minors.

What happens if the weather is bad?
During the rainy season, tours might be diverted or rescheduled for safety reasons. The tour provider prioritizes your safety and may offer alternative options if weather conditions aren’t ideal.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Rescheduling might be available depending on the provider’s policies.

Are the guides helpful?
Guides are generally friendly and licensed, but some reviews mention communication issues. They’ll assist with safety and provide info about the stops.

How crowded are the boats?
Quite crowded, with some travelers noting that the boat was full to capacity and that boarding can be challenging. This is a common aspect of budget tours in popular destinations.

Overall, Shared El Nido Tour A is a practical, budget-friendly way to see some of Palawan’s most beautiful sights—perfect for those who prioritize scenery and adventure over exclusivity. Just keep expectations realistic, and you’ll likely come away with plenty of memories—and photos—to last a lifetime.

You can check availability for your dates here: