Siquijor: Jeepney Island Tour with Snorkeling

Travelers looking for an authentic adventure in the Philippines often find Siquijor to be an island full of surprises—stunning waterfalls, captivating caves, and vibrant marine life. This Jeepney Island Tour with Snorkeling promises to showcase the best of Siquijor in a single day, guided by friendly locals who know the island inside out. While the price tag of $85 per person might seem high at first glance, a well-structured itinerary coupled with inclusive activities makes it a solid value for those craving an all-encompassing day of exploration.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the customizable itinerary allows you to choose from several highlights, ensuring your day matches your interests. Second, the knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with stories and tips that breathe life into each stop. Third, the combination of land and water adventures—from waterfalls and underground rivers to snorkeling with turtles—is perfect for active travelers or those seeking diverse experiences. A possible downside? The tour’s flexibility sometimes results in route variations, which could mean missing some spots if not communicated clearly.

This tour is ideal for adventurers, nature lovers, and curious travelers who want a taste of Siquijor’s natural beauty without fuss. If you’re comfortable with open-air Jeep rides, enjoy engaging guides, and love a mix of water and land activities, this could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Flexible itinerary allows you to visit up to five different attractions.
• Includes snorkeling and freediving at marine sanctuaries, with opportunities to see turtles and barracudas.
• All entrance fees and lunch are covered, making the day worry-free.
• Guides like Ariel are praised for their friendliness and local knowledge.
• The tour ends at Paliton Beach with a sunset view, perfect for unwinding.
• Suitable for active travelers but not recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting the Day: Hotel Pickup and Setting Off

Your journey begins with a hotel pick-up around 8 or 9 AM, depending on your accommodation. Expect a lively ride in a traditional Filipino Jeep—a real highlight, as it offers a breezy, open-air feel that lets you enjoy the scenic views of Siquijor. Be prepared for a somewhat unpredictable route; as one reviewer pointed out, sometimes guides may take alternative paths, but the overall experience remains rewarding.

Pitogo Cliff and Scenic Views

The tour’s first stop might be the Pitogo cliff, offering panoramic vistas of the coastline. It’s an excellent spot for photos and to appreciate the rugged beauty of Siquijor’s cliffs. While not everyone may spend a long time here, it’s a great introduction to the island’s natural terrain.

Sambulawan Underground River and Caves

Next, the Sambulawan underground river provides a glimpse into the island’s hidden wonders. If you’re lucky, your guide will share stories about the caves and the formations within. This attraction is a favorite among visitors who appreciate a mix of adventure and natural marvels.

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Waterfalls and Natural Pools

Depending on your preferences, the itinerary can include visits to Cambugahay Falls or Lugnason Falls. Both are stunning, with lush surroundings and inviting water for swimming or simply relaxing. One traveler noted that guides made efforts to accommodate their wishes, which can be a plus if you want to focus on specific spots.

Balite Century-Old Tree and Fish Spa

A stop at the Balite Tree offers not just shade but also the chance to experience a fish spa, where tiny fish nibble away dead skin—an oddly soothing experience and a fun photo op. This spot combines nature with a touch of local culture.

Marine Sanctuaries and Snorkeling

The highlight for many is the snorkeling session at Tulapos Sanctuary, where you can see turtles and barracudas. Reviewers rave about the guides’ expertise and the vibrant marine life, making it a memorable part of the day. Prepare your camera for underwater shots or just enjoy the peaceful glide alongside these gentle creatures.

Lunch: Filipino Cuisine

A generous lunch break features classic Filipino dishes like Bulalo or Adobo. The food is straightforward but hearty, perfect for refueling after a morning of exploration. Many reviewers appreciated the included meal, which adds to the tour’s overall value.

Marine Sanctuaries and Beach Time

Post-lunch, you might visit Caticugan or Tubod Marine Sanctuaries for more swimming and turtle encounters. The calm waters and abundant marine life make it a favorite among snorkelers. The tour concludes at Paliton Beach, famous for its pristine sands and stunning sunset—ideal for unwinding and capturing memorable photos.

Souvenir Shopping and Departure

Before heading back, there’s often time to browse local souvenir shops, where you can pick up handcrafted keepsakes. The tour wraps up around 4 PM with hotel drop-off, leaving you with a full day of adventures under your belt.

What to Expect and Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Transportation: The open-air Jeep provides a fun, cultural way to explore, but be prepared for a breezy ride—bring sunglasses and a hat.
• Timing: The 8-9 AM start means you’ll need to wake early, but it’s worth it to maximize daylight.
• Group Size: Tours typically operate with small groups, fostering a friendly atmosphere and personalized attention.
• Water Activities: Bring your swimwear, sunscreen, and water shoes if you prefer, as water spots involve some walking over rocks or uneven ground.
• Weather: Sun protection is key; always have sunscreen and a hat to stay comfortable during sunny parts of the day.
• Flexibility: While the itinerary outlines key stops, guides like Ariel are praised for their friendliness and willingness to adjust based on your interests or weather conditions.

The Value: Are You Getting Your Money’s Worth?

At $85 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive look at Siquijor’s natural attractions, with all entrance fees and lunch included. When you consider the diversity of stops—waterfalls, underground rivers, marine sanctuaries—and the personalized guidance, it’s a fair price for a full day of exploration. The inclusion of snorkeling and the chance to see turtles up close make it especially appealing for marine life enthusiasts.

The reviews highlight the quality of guides like Ariel, who treat guests like friends and take pride in showing off the island’s best spots. However, some mention that the tour route can vary, which might mean missing out on certain stops if the guide switches plans unexpectedly. Still, most travelers find the experience well worth the cost, especially with the comfort of having all logistics sorted for them.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour suits active travelers eager to see a wide variety of sights in one day without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s perfect for those who enjoy nature, waterfalls, and snorkeling, and don’t mind a bit of adventure in an open-air vehicle.

If you prefer a tightly scheduled, rigid itinerary, or have mobility issues, this tour might not be ideal. Also, if you’re pregnant or a non-swimmer, some water activities could be off-limits, so consider your comfort level with water.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
All entrance fees, snorkeling or freediving activities, a Filipino lunch (Bulalo or Adobo), hotel pickup and drop-off, and a knowledgeable guide are included.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a camera, snacks, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes suitable for walking and water activities.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
While snorkeling is part of the experience, non-swimmers might want to skip water activities or bring floatation devices if available. Always ask the guide about alternatives.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs from about 8 or 9 AM until 4 PM, giving you a full day of exploration.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, guides like Ariel are known for their friendliness and willingness to accommodate guest preferences regarding the itinerary.

Is it family-friendly?
The tour is best suited for active travelers comfortable with outdoor activities and water sports. It might not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Are there any restrictions?
Pregnant women, people with mobility issues, and non-swimmers are not recommended to participate in water activities for safety reasons.

What’s the dress code?
Wear comfortable, lightweight clothes, and bring swimwear for water stops. Sun protection is highly advised.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

The Siquijor Jeepney Island Tour with Snorkeling offers a well-rounded, fun-packed day showcasing the island’s natural beauty. For travelers craving an honest, engaging experience with friendly guides and a mix of land and water adventures, it delivers good value. The chance to witness stunning waterfalls, underground rivers, and marine life in one tour is hard to beat—especially when everything is taken care of from start to finish.

While route changes and the open-air Jeep might not suit everyone, these quirks add to the authentic feel of the experience. If you’re looking to see Siquijor with a local’s touch, enjoy snorkeling, and appreciate a relaxed but adventurous day, this tour is a strong contender for your itinerary.

To sum it up, this experience is best for those eager to explore and actively participate, seeking memorable sights and friendly guidance without the stress of planning. It’s a worthwhile option for adventurers and nature lovers who want a genuine taste of Siquijor’s best.

You can check availability for your dates here: