El Nido: 3 Days and 2 Nights

El Nido: 3 Days and 2 Nights—A Deep Dive into the Philippines’ Natural Beauty

If you’re looking for a quick escape to one of the most photogenic corners of the Philippines, the El Nido 3-day, 2-night island hopping tour promises a blend of incredible scenery, delicious food, and memorable adventures. While it offers a well-rounded experience, including visits to iconic lagoons and beaches, it also carries the typical perks and pitfalls of group tours.

One of the highlights is definitely the chance to see the Big and Small Lagoons, which are among El Nido’s most celebrated sights. Plus, with options to explore hidden beaches, caves, and shrines, this tour lets you tick off many of the area’s top natural attractions—all in just a few days. We appreciate that this tour provides round-trip transfers, lunches, and snorkel equipment, making it a fairly seamless experience for travelers.

That said, it’s worth noting that the tour’s success depends heavily on the weather—some reviews mention cancellations or fewer stops during bad conditions. The group size, which can be up to 999 travelers, might also influence the intimate feel some visitors crave. This tour is best suited for those seeking an efficient, guided introduction to El Nido’s highlights, especially if you value good guides, tasty meals, and stunning vistas but don’t mind the group setting or variable weather.

Key Points

• Incredible natural scenery: Lagoons, beaches, coral reefs, and caves.
• All-inclusive experience: Lunch, snorkel gear, and transfers included.
• Variety of stops: From lagoons and beaches to caves and shrines.
• Experienced guides: Well-reviewed guides enhance the experience.
• Weather-dependent: Cancellations or fewer stops possible during bad weather.
• Group size: Can accommodate up to 999 travelers, which might affect intimacy.

An In-Depth Look at the 3-Day El Nido Tour

What the Tour Covers and Why It Matters

This tour is designed to give you a taste of El Nido’s most celebrated natural attractions within a manageable three days. For many, the main draw is Tour A, which involves visiting the Big and Small Lagoons, as well as the Secret Lagoon. These spots stand out for their crystal-clear waters, towering limestone cliffs, and the chance to swim among schools of colorful fish—some reviewers mention encounters with sea turtles, which is always a bonus.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Arrival and Introduction

Your adventure begins with a pickup from either Puerto Princesa or El Nido Airport, depending on your flight. The transfer is straightforward, with a 30-minute journey to the Mabuhay Lounge or your hotel. Reviewers emphasize the importance of providing your hotel details in advance to ensure smooth pickup, especially since the tricycle cost to the hotel can vary from 50 to 150 Philippine Pesos.

A tip from travelers: early flights give you a great aerial view of the lush landscape and coastline, adding a scenic prelude to your trip.

Day 2: The Magic of Tour A

This is the core of the experience—eight hours packed with island hopping, snorkeling, and beach lounging. The tour visits two lagoons (either Big Lagoon or Small Lagoon, plus Secret Lagoon), plus Shimizu Island—an ideal spot for snorkeling and relaxing on white sand beaches. Shimizu Island is also where most groups enjoy their lunch, often served with local dishes and tropical flavors.

One reviewer raved, “The snorkel experience was amazing—clear water, abundant fish, and coral reefs.” The limestone cliffs are as breathtaking from the water as they are from land, providing perfect photo opportunities.

Your day ends at 7 Commando Beach, known for its long stretch of white sand and a cozy bar where you can refresh with a cold drink. Keep your eyes peeled—you might spot a sea turtle or two while snorkeling here, making it a favorite among wildlife enthusiasts.

Day 3: Departure and Transfer

Your trip concludes with a transfer back to the airport, either Lio or Puerto Princesa. The process is simple, and the transfer is usually included, ensuring a stress-free end to your adventure.

What Travelers Love

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, who often go above and beyond to ensure everyone is comfortable and informed. One reviewer mentions “Ronald and the rest of the staff were attentive, friendly, and very fun,” emphasizing the importance of good leadership on these trips.

Snorkeling seems to be a highlight, with visitors appreciating the clear waters and vibrant marine life. The food also gets praise: local dishes served during lunch are considered tasty and satisfying, making the long day more enjoyable.

The scenery, of course, is what really captures hearts. Reviewers describe the lagoons and limestone formations as “stunning,” and the beaches as “white-sand paradises.” The limestone cliffs covered with vegetation are photos you’ll want to keep forever.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the tour offers excellent value, there are some things to keep in mind. Since the group can be quite large—up to 999 people—some travelers mention that it can sometimes feel crowded, especially at popular spots like the lagoons. If you prefer intimate, solo experiences, this might be less ideal.

Weather is another factor: bad weather can lead to cancellations or fewer stops. One reviewer noted that despite stormy conditions, the crew managed well, and the experience was still worthwhile, but flexibility is key.

Finally, the cost of around $315 per person includes most essentials, but it’s good to remember that this is a guided, group experience. If you’re after a private, customized tour, this might not suit your style.

Why This Tour Could Be Your Best Choice

This 3-day tour is well-suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free introduction to El Nido’s highlights. It offers a solid balance of scenic beauty, good food, and knowledgeable guides, all at a reasonable price when considering inclusions like lunch, snorkel gear, and transfers.

It’s ideal for first-time visitors or those on a tight schedule who want to see the key sights without the fuss of planning every detail. If you’re traveling with a group or family, the shared atmosphere can foster fun memories—just be prepared for the possibility of larger crowds.

For budget-conscious travelers, this tour provides excellent value, given that many attractions are included, and the experience is curated to maximize sightseeing and enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

The El Nido 3-day, 2-night island hopping tour encapsulates the essence of what makes this part of the Philippines so special: stunning lagoons, pristine beaches, and lively marine life. For those who enjoy guided outings that combine comfort with adventure, this tour offers a solid, enjoyable package.

While it might not satisfy those seeking complete privacy or ultra-exclusive experiences, it excels at giving a comprehensive snapshot of El Nido’s natural beauty. The knowledgeable guides, delicious local lunch options, and the unforgettable scenery make it a worthwhile investment for most travelers.

If you’re eager to tick off El Nido’s top sights in just a few days, enjoy snorkeling, and don’t mind a group setting, this tour is a highly practical and enjoyable choice. Just remember to pack your camera, some reef-safe sunscreen, and an open mind—and you’ll be set for a memorable adventure in this tropical paradise.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip shared transfers are included from your hotel to the tour starting point and back. The journey from El Nido or Puerto Princesa Airport is straightforward, and guides coordinate pickups.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring swimwear, a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a waterproof camera or phone case. Light snacks and water are recommended, though lunch is provided.

Are snorkel equipment rentals included?
Yes, free snorkel gear is available during the trip, allowing you to explore the vibrant marine life at each stop.

What is the group size?
While the tour can accommodate up to 999 travelers, actual group sizes tend to be manageable, and guides aim to ensure everyone gets a good experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children should be accompanied by an adult. Check with your provider if you have specific concerns about age restrictions.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Flexibility is key.

How long does each stop last?
Stops typically last a few hours, including time for swimming, snorkeling, relaxing on beaches, and lunch. The entire tour lasts about 8 hours.

Is there free time during the tour?
Yes, at spots like 7 Commando Beach, you can relax, snorkel, or enjoy a drink at the beach bar.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book around 5 days ahead, especially during peak seasons, to secure their preferred dates.

To sum it up, if you’re after a well-organized, scenic, and budget-friendly way to see El Nido’s highlights, this 3-day, 2-night tour hits the mark. It’s a fantastic way to create lasting memories while enjoying the Philippines’ natural beauty—just come prepared for the weather and crowds, and you’re all set for an adventure.