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

Nestled in the vibrant heart of the Philippines, the island-hopping adventure from Puerto Princesa to El Nido promises an unforgettable day of natural wonders. This comprehensive day trip offers travelers the chance to enjoy the region’s stunning landscapes, from the serene Secret Lagoon to the picturesque Seven Commandos Beach. With a range of activities, from snorkeling to swimming, and meals provided, the excursion caters to those seeking an all-inclusive escape. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a day of relaxation, this day trip to El Nido may just be the perfect addition to your Philippine itinerary.

Key Points

Key points:

• A day trip from Puerto Princesa to El Nido, including island hopping at up to 5 stops, priced at €333.49 for up to 2 people.

• The 20-hour excursion provides transportation, meals, and necessary gear, but may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments.

• The itinerary includes a 5-hour scenic van ride, breakfast in El Nido, and a full day of activities such as snorkeling, swimming, and kayaking.

• Meals provided throughout the day feature local cuisine, including barbecue pork, chicken, seafood, and fresh produce, accommodating various dietary needs.

• While the tour has an overall rating of 3.7 out of 5 stars, the guides receive high marks for their knowledge and friendliness, but the transportation services are rated lower.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Day Trip

The day trip from Puerto Princesa to El Nido offers a comprehensive exploration of the stunning natural wonders that define this renowned destination.

Priced at €333.49 per group (up to 2 people), the 20-hour excursion provides free cancellation and the option to reserve without upfront payment.

Beginning with an early pickup from hotels, the journey includes a 5-hour scenic van ride and island hopping at up to 5 stops, such as the Secret Lagoon and Big Lagoon.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all included, along with transportation, entry fees, and necessary gear.

While the trip isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments, it offers an immersive experience of El Nido’s natural beauty.

Pricing and Inclusions

The day trip’s pricing starts at €333.49 per group (up to 2 people), offering a compelling value proposition for those seeking to explore El Nido’s stunning landscapes.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation via air-conditioned van, the island tour with all entry fees, and a comprehensive set of gear like life vests, snorkeling masks, aqua shoes, and kayak rentals.

Meals are also covered, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided.

Travellers can expect a full day of adventure, with up to 5 stops at popular destinations like Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and Big Lagoon.

The tour’s inclusions ensure a hassle-free and immersive experience for visitors to discover the natural beauty of El Nido.

Itinerary and Experiences

Starting early around 4 AM, the day trip whisks travelers from hotels within 15 km of Puerto Princesa City Airport on a scenic 5-hour van ride to the picturesque town of El Nido. Upon arrival, guests have the option to enjoy a hearty breakfast before the island hopping tour kicks off at 9 AM. The itinerary includes up to 5 stops, showcasing the region’s natural wonders like the Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and the iconic Big Lagoon. Lunch features a delectable spread of barbecue pork, chicken, seafood, vegetable salad, and fresh fruits. After a full day of exploration, the group returns to Puerto Princesa around midnight, capping off an unforgettable adventure.

Stop	Activity
1	Secret Lagoon
2	Shimizu Island
3	Seven Commandos Beach
4	Big Lagoon
5	Unspecified

Transportation and Pickup

The day trip commences with an early pickup from hotels within a 15-kilometer radius of the Puerto Princesa City Airport, typically around 4 AM.

Guests are then transported via an air-conditioned van for the 5-hour scenic drive to El Nido. Along the way, there’s a short stop for food, allowing participants to refuel before the island hopping adventure begins.

The total driving time for the round trip exceeds 10 hours, with approximately 5 hours spent on the road in each direction.

Passengers should note that the lengthy travel time may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Activities and Island Hopping

Upon arrival in El Nido, guests have the option to enjoy a complimentary breakfast before the island hopping tour begins at 9 AM.

The tour includes up to five stops, such as the Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Seven Commandos Beach, and the Big Lagoon. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and kayaking at these stunning natural attractions.

Lunch features a delightful spread of barbecue pork, chicken, seafood, vegetable salad, and fresh fruits.

The day concludes with a return to Puerto Princesa around midnight, after a dinner in El Nido, providing a comprehensive and memorable island-hopping experience.

Meals and Refreshments

During the day trip, meals and refreshments are thoughtfully provided to ensure a satisfying and well-nourished experience. Breakfast is available upon arrival in El Nido, followed by a delicious lunch featuring barbecued pork, chicken, seafood, vegetable salad, and fresh fruits. Dinner is also included in the evening before the return journey to Puerto Princesa.

Meal	Description	Included
Breakfast	Available upon arrival in El Nido	Yes
Lunch	Barbecue pork, chicken, seafood, vegetable salad, fresh fruits	Yes
Snacks	N/A	No
Dinner	Served in El Nido before returning to Puerto Princesa	Yes

The meals cater to various dietary needs and preferences, ensuring a fulfilling culinary journey alongside the stunning natural landscapes of El Nido.

Recommended Packing List

Travelers preparing for their day trip to El Nido should pack a few essential items to ensure a comfortable and seamless experience.

First and foremost, they’ll need to bring their passport or a valid ID for the island-hopping activities. Swimwear, a towel, and water shoes are a must, as visitors will be spending a significant portion of the day in and around the water.

Sunscreen and a hat or sunglasses can help protect against the tropical sun. Plus, a light, breathable change of clothes for the journey back is recommended.

While large bags and luggage aren’t allowed, travelers should bring some cash for any additional expenses or purchases during the tour.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Based on the customer reviews provided, the overall rating for the day trip from Puerto Princesa to El Nido stands at 3.7 out of 5 stars, aggregated from 25 reviews. Customers were particularly impressed by the knowledgeable and friendly guides, scoring 4.6 out of 5, while the transportation services received a lower rating of 2.8. The tour’s organization and service levels were well-received, both scoring 4 out of 5. However, some reviewers noted challenges with boat access to certain beaches, suggesting travelers consider weather conditions when planning their trip.

Metric	Rating
Overall	3.7/5
Guides	4.6/5
Transportation	2.8/5
Service	4.0/5
Organization	4.0/5

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?

Yes, you can bring your own snacks and drinks for the day trip. The tour package doesn’t include them, so you’re welcome to pack your own provisions to enjoy during the journey and island hopping activities.

Do I Need to Know How to Swim to Participate?

While swimming skills are not strictly required, participants should be comfortable in the water as the tour involves activities like snorkeling and kayaking. Non-swimmers may have limited opportunities to fully enjoy all the activities.

Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size Requirement?

The tour has a group size of up to 2 per booking. There is no minimum group size requirement, but the maximum group size is limited to 2 travelers per booking.

Can I Customize the Tour or Change the Itinerary?

The tour package doesn’t offer customizable itineraries or the ability to change the schedule. It’s a set day trip with a fixed itinerary and stops. Travelers must follow the provided schedule during the 20-hour experience.

What Should I Do if I Experience Motion Sickness?

If experiencing motion sickness, travelers should bring medication or natural remedies like ginger or peppermint. They can also request a seat near the front of the van and stay hydrated during the long drive to minimize discomfort.

Recap

This day trip from Puerto Princesa to El Nido is an excellent way to experience the stunning natural beauty of the Philippines. With a full itinerary, transportation, meals, and activities included, travelers can enjoy a hassle-free and memorable adventure. The island hopping experience and visits to breathtaking destinations like Secret Lagoon and Seven Commandos Beach make this trip a must-do for anyone seeking to explore the country’s picturesque landscapes.

You can check if your dates are available here: