Siargao Island Group Inland Tour with Sugba Lagoon

A Closer Look at the Siargao Island Group Inland Tour with Sugba Lagoon

Travelers often flock to Siargao for its famous surf breaks and lively island vibe, but what about the inland treasures? This tour promises authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventures like paddling through palm-lined rivers and exploring jungle lagoons. We’ve reviewed the experience based on available details and traveler feedback to help you decide if it’s worth your time and money.

What We Love About This Tour
First, the authenticity: It offers genuine local experiences, like paddling a traditional wooden canoe with a guide who knows every hidden corner. Second, the unique stops, such as the secret jungle lagoon accessible only through a narrow mangrove tunnel. Third, the personalized touch with small groups, eco-friendly equipment, and local guides who grew up here. These elements suggest a more immersive, less commercialized experience.

A Possible Drawback
However, the tour’s price of $49 per person raises questions about the value, especially considering some travelers have reported issues with additional charges or deceptive practices. While the itinerary sounds appealing, some reviews hint at inconsistency in service quality, which could impact your overall experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?
This inland adventure suits travelers seeking authentic local experiences and willing to navigate potential pitfalls. It’s ideal if you love exploring less touristy spots, enjoy small group settings, and value eco-conscious practices. But be aware that the experience might vary, and it’s crucial to verify the tour’s reputation before booking.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Experience: Interact with guides who grew up in Siargao and explore hidden inland gems.
• Unique Stops: Includes a jungle lagoon, secret tunnels, and rope swings—perfect for adventure seekers.
• Small Group & Eco-Friendly: Max of 15 travelers, with environmentally conscious equipment.
• Inconsistent Reviews: Notably, some travelers have reported scams or extra charges, which might affect trust.
• Price vs. Value: At $49, it could be a worthwhile adventure if the experience matches your expectations, but beware of potential hidden costs.
• Booking & Cancellation: Free cancellation available with 24 hours’ notice, but the review history suggests caution.

The Reality of the Inland Tour Experience

Itinerary Breakdown and What You Can Expect

The tour begins early at 8:00 am, with hotel pickup in a premium van or SUV—an advantage for convenience, especially after a long travel day. The journey from your accommodation to the inland sites involves a few hours of travel, which might be less exciting but is necessary to reach the less accessible locations.

Once you arrive at the inland spots, the adventure starts. The highlight is the paddling experience along the Maasin River, where you’ll use a traditional wooden canoe, guided by a local who’s intimately familiar with every bend. This is more than a tourist photo op; it’s an actual immersion into local life and natural beauty.

Next, you’ll encounter the custom-built rope swing, which promises a fun way to leap into the water. Reviews don’t specify if the swing is professionally maintained, but it’s typical for these types of setups to be informal. Expect jade-green waters, perfect for cooling off after paddling. Some reviewers mention enjoying the candid photos taken by the on-site camera guy, which can delight travelers wanting memories without the hassle of photography themselves.

Exploring the Secret Jungle Lagoon

Perhaps the most enticing part of this tour is the hidden jungle lagoon. Accessible only through a narrow mangrove tunnel, it offers a sense of discovery and seclusion. The experience here hinges on the guide’s local knowledge—without it, this pristine spot could remain hidden.

The lagoon’s tranquility and lush surroundings make it a photographer’s dream, and you might find yourself wishing the tour spent more time here. Unfortunately, the overall duration (about 8 hours) suggests a packed schedule, leaving limited time at each stop.

Food and Facilities

A Filipino plated lunch is included, often enjoyed on the riverbank under swaying coconut palms. This adds a touch of local flavor and relaxed ambiance. The tour also provides tables and cottages, offering shade and comfort amidst the adventure. Some travelers appreciate the convenience of having food prepared and served on-site, which is vital after a morning of active exploration.

Additional Costs and Considerations

While the tour price covers most activities, extras like kayak rentals start at P300 (around $5.50 USD), payable on-site. Tips and gratuities are not included, so if you have a great guide or service, a tip is appreciated but not obligatory.

However, a significant concern is the trustworthiness of the operation. One traveler explicitly called it a scam, recounting a guide tried to charge again for services already paid for. This highlights the importance of verifying the tour provider beforehand and keeping receipts or proof of booking.

Transportation and Group Size

The small group limit of 15 travelers is ideal for those seeking a more intimate experience. The use of premium vans or SUVs ensures comfortable travel between sites, although the long hours spent traveling might test your patience.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re a traveler who loves adventure and authenticity, this inland tour has potential. You’ll enjoy paddling through scenic waterways, discovering hidden lagoons, and exploring jungle surroundings with guides who know the area intimately. It’s well-suited for those seeking a personalized experience and willing to accept variability in service quality.

However, if trust is a major concern or if you prefer fully transparent and reliable tours, this particular experience warrants caution. The reported scam warning suggests you should do extra research, confirm reviews, and perhaps consider alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics easier, especially after a busy morning or long travel.

What should I bring for this inland tour?
While not explicitly listed, it’s wise to carry essentials like sunscreen, water, appropriate footwear for muddy or uneven paths, and a waterproof camera or phone case for photos.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is suitable for a range of ages. However, the overall physical activity involved might not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What costs are not included in the $49 price?
Extras such as kayak rentals (starting at P300) and tips are not included. Be prepared for these additional expenses.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, which gives some flexibility if plans change. However, given mixed reviews, it’s wise to confirm the reputation of the provider before booking.

Why are the reviews so negative?
One review explicitly states it’s a scam, citing a guide who tried to charge extra. This cautionary note underscores the importance of verifying your tour provider and reading recent feedback.

Final Thoughts

This inland Siargao tour promises a genuine, off-the-beaten-path adventure that appeals to travelers craving local flavor and hidden natural spots. Its highlights—traditional paddling, secret lagoons, jungle exploration—are undeniably attractive.

However, the mixed reviews and scam warning emphasize the need for vigilance. If you choose to go, confirm the provider’s credibility, keep receipts, and stay alert to unexpected charges. The experience can be rewarding if managed well, but do your homework first.

For those who value authenticity and small-group intimacy, and are prepared for possible inconsistencies, this tour could be a memorable part of your Siargao trip. But if your top priority is trustworthiness and clear pricing, consider researching other options or reading up-to-date traveler reviews before booking.

To sum it up, the Siargao inland tour with Sugba Lagoon offers a compelling mix of adventure and discovery—albeit with some risks. It’s best suited for curious travelers eager for local encounters, but caution is advised to avoid disappointment or unexpected costs. With careful planning, you can enjoy the natural beauty and heartfelt local hospitality that make Siargao truly special.