El Nido Tour A – Big Lagoon Premium Tour (Private / Shared)

El Nido Tour A – Big Lagoon Premium Tour (Private / Shared): A Detailed Look

Travelers looking to experience the breathtaking beauty of El Nido’s limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and secluded lagoons will find this tour appealing. With a mix of iconic sights like the Big Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and Secret Lagoon, along with comfortable amenities, it promises a full day of natural wonder. The tour charges around $40 per person, and it’s often booked well in advance—about 25 days ahead on average—reflecting its popularity.

What makes this experience particularly attractive is how it combines both sightseeing and active enjoyment. Expect to snorkel among schools of fish, paddle a kayak through shimmering waters, and relax on pristine beaches—all under the guidance of friendly, knowledgeable crew members.

However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. The tour is described as both private and shared, but some reviews suggest that the shared experience can feel cramped, and the actual value might vary depending on the boat and group size. Weather-dependent spots like Payong-Payong Beach might be skipped if conditions aren’t ideal.

This tour suits travelers who are eager to see the highlights of El Nido in a single day, especially those who enjoy a mix of adventure, relaxation, and stunning scenery. If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to tick off multiple must-see spots, this tour offers a compelling option.

Key Points

• Stunning natural scenery with limestone cliffs and emerald waters
• Variety of stops, including lagoons, beaches, and snorkeling spots
• Good value for the price, with included lunch and equipment
• Weather dependence can affect some destinations
• Group sizes may influence comfort, especially on shared tours
• Knowledgeable crew and guides enhance the experience

The Experience in Detail

What to Expect from the Itinerary

The tour kicks off with the Big Lagoon, arguably the star attraction. You’ll glide through a narrow waterway flanked by towering limestone cliffs, with clear blue water inviting you to swim, snorkel, or paddle around in a kayak if you’ve opted for the private version. Reviewers commonly mention that the views here are “exquisite” and the water “crystal clear,” making it an ideal spot for photography and just taking in the scenery. One guest, Stephen, noted how helpful the guide Jerry was, ensuring everyone had a good time—highlighting how the crew’s attentiveness can elevate your experience.

Next is Shimizu Island, which offers a peaceful setting with powdery white sand and lush greenery. This stop provides a relaxed beach break and a chance to snorkel in shallow waters teeming with fish. Many report this as another favorite, with some mentioning the “breathtaking views” and “relaxing atmosphere.” The island’s scenery is described as lush and inviting, perfect for a quick swim or simply lounging on the sand.

Payong-Payong Beach depends heavily on the weather, as noted by reviews. If conditions are unfavorable, the tour may take you to an alternative snorkeling spot. When accessible, it’s praised for its pristine waters and quiet vibe—an ideal retreat for a few hours of sunbathing or swimming.

The Secret Lagoon is a highlight for many, accessible only through a small cave, which adds an element of adventure. Reviewers describe it as a “hideaway lagoon” that’s well worth the effort to visit. The slightly tricky access keeps it exclusive and makes it feel like discovering a hidden treasure.

Finally, the tour concludes at Seven Commandos Beach, famous for its long stretch of white sand, palm trees, and clear waters. Guests often spend time relaxing here, enjoying the view, and sipping drinks from the beach bar. It’s a peaceful way to end a day of exploration, soaking up the scenery and reflecting on the day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $40, you get more than just a boat ride. The essentials like hotel pickup, boat transfers, and the service of experienced crew and guides make this a practical choice. You also receive life jackets, purified water, snorkeling masks, and a picnic lunch with fruits, which adds to the value and convenience.

If you’re opting for the private tour, a kayak is included, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. The shared version might limit this, but it still offers snorkeling gear and a chance to enjoy the scenery.

On the flip side, you will need to pay additional entrance fees—PHP 200 per person for Big Lagoon and PHP 400 for the environmental fee, valid for five days. These are standard costs that add up but are typical for protected natural sites.

The Realities of the Tour

While the tour is praised for its stunning vistas and friendly guides, some reviews highlight potential downsides. Notably, the experience can feel misleadingly advertised as private or premium, yet some found the boat crowded and the experience more shared than exclusive. One reviewer, Chris, mentioned the boat was cramped and food was limited, while another, Kathleen, faced issues with hotel pickup, feeling misled about the tour’s premium status.

The timing is also worth noting. The itinerary can be modified based on weather conditions, as one reviewer pointed out the starting time was shifted from 8 AM to later, which affected their plans to beat the crowds. Weather can influence the accessibility of spots like Payong-Payong and the overall enjoyment.

Value for Money

At $40 per person, this tour offers good value, especially considering the included lunch, snorkeling gear, and kayak option. The scenic stops alone justify the expense, but whether this tour meets your expectations depends on your preferences for comfort and exclusivity. Some reviewers felt they paid a premium for a shared experience that felt crowded or limited, so it’s worth clarifying what’s included before booking.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you love spectacular views and want to tick off several of El Nido’s most famous spots in one day, this tour can be a great choice. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy snorkeling, relaxing on beautiful beaches, and exploring lagoons. The included amenities make it convenient, but be prepared for some variability depending on weather and group sizes.

Those seeking a private, luxurious experience might find this tour’s shared version a bit cramped or limited. Conversely, travelers on a budget or looking for a well-rounded, guided day will find it offers solid value and memorable sights.

Final Thoughts

This El Nido Tour A offers a rundown of the area’s natural beauty, combining iconic lagoons, beaches, and snorkeling spots with good logistical support. The stunning scenery and friendly guides are definite highlights, with many praising the professionalism of crew members like Jerry. The included picnic lunch and snorkeling gear add to the convenience and value, making it a practical choice for most travelers.

However, the experience can be affected by weather and group size, and some reviews suggest that the shared tour may feel a bit cramped or less exclusive than expected. If you’re after more privacy or a tailored experience, consider discussing options with the provider or opting for a private tour.

In general, this tour suits those eager to see the best of El Nido in one day without breaking the bank. It offers a solid balance of adventure, relaxation, and stunning views, making it a memorable part of any Philippines trip.

FAQs

Is this a private or shared tour?
It can be booked as either private or shared, but reviews suggest that the shared experience may feel cramped, depending on the boat and group size.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup, boat transfer, guides, life jackets, purified water, snorkeling masks, and a picnic lunch with fruits. A kayak is available only for private tours.

Are there additional costs?
Yes, you’ll need to pay PHP 200 for the Big Lagoon entrance fee and PHP 400 environmental fee, both payable on the day of the tour.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, with specific stops ranging from 1 to 1.5 hours each.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather, and if conditions are poor, some stops like Payong-Payong Beach may be skipped. In such cases, you might be offered an alternative or a full refund.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling masks are included, so you can enjoy the underwater scenery at various stops.

To sum it up, El Nido Tour A provides a well-rounded, value-packed day exploring some of the most iconic sights and hidden gems of the area. With stunning scenery, friendly guides, and practical amenities, it’s an excellent choice for travelers eager to experience El Nido’s natural beauty without overspending. Just keep in mind the possible limitations of shared tours and weather-dependent spots, and you’ll likely have a memorable adventure.