Hundred Islands Day tour from Manila (Private Tour)

If you’re looking to escape the hustle of Manila and experience some of the Philippines’ most picturesque islands, the Hundred Islands Day Tour offers an enticing option. This private trip promises a full day of island-hopping, outdoor adventures, and natural beauty, all packed into approximately 12 hours. It’s designed for travelers eager to explore without the hassle of planning every detail — and with a knowledgeable guide to lead the way.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the chance to enjoy multiple islands and activities in one day, all while having the convenience of roundtrip transportation from Manila. The tour’s inclusion of entrance, environmental fees, and permits means you can relax and focus on having fun. However, the early start and long travel time might be a challenge for some. Still, if you’re after a quick but comprehensive escape into nature, this trip could be a perfect fit.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy outdoor pursuits, are comfortable with a full day’s itinerary, and want to see a variety of landscapes and sites in one go. It’s particularly appealing for those who value guided experiences that ensure they hit the highlights without the stress of logistics.

Key Points

• All-inclusive package with entrance, environmental, and permit fees means no surprise costs.
• Variety of activities including swimming, kayaking, cliff-jumping, and snorkeling—suitable for different interests.
• Expert local guides help navigate the islands and suggest activities, enhancing the experience.
• Long travel time from Manila is a consideration, but the early start ensures a full day of exploring.
• Authentic outdoor experience in a protected national park away from city life.
• Group size limited to 15, fostering a more personalized adventure.

An Honest Look at the Hundred Islands Day Tour

The Hundred Islands National Park is naturally one of the Philippines’ most captivating spots, with over 100 islands scattered across Lingayen Gulf. The tour’s logistics are straightforward: a roundtrip van from Manila takes about 10 hours, so expect a long day. The early 4:00 am pickup from Manila means you’ll be on the road before dawn, but this approach maximizes your time on the islands. As one reviewer noted, “The tour at the Hundred Islands itself was great, just the ride going and coming from Manila to Pangasinan was brutal — total of 10 hrs ride in the van.” That’s a fair point; the journey can be taxing, but the proximity of the islands makes the trip worthwhile.

The First Stop: Hundred Islands National Park

Arriving at the park, you’ll be greeted by the stunning landscape of small limestone islands surrounded by clear blue waters. The park is a protected area, and the tour fee covers all entrance and environmental permits, making it seamless to enjoy the day. You’ll have plenty of time to take in the scenery and get your bearings before heading to the next stops.

Pilgrimage Island and Marcos Island

Your guide will take you to Pilgrimage Island, also known as Governor’s Island, where you can check out the station of the cross with a big statue of Jesus or climb the 360-degree view deck for panoramic photos of the islands. It’s a quiet spot for reflection or just snapping pictures.

Next is Marcos Island, famous for its cave diving and cliff-jumping opportunities. The cave diving is underwater, promising a bit of an adventure for thrill-seekers. One review specifically mentions the “cliff jumping/diving — under water cave,” emphasizing it as a highlight. The guide’s expertise becomes valuable here, helping you select suitable activities, especially if you’re not comfortable with heights or swimming in caves.

Coral Garden Snorkeling

The tour then moves on to the Coral Garden, a shallow reef area perfect for snorkeling and coral viewing. While snorkeling is considered an optional activity and not included in the price, many guests find it a worthwhile addition to see vibrant marine life up close. The calm waters and clarity of the area make it a relaxing break from more active pursuits.

Quezon Island: The Main Event

You’ll spend about two hours on Quezon Island, which is often the main highlight for many visitors. This is where you can enjoy lunch (on your own), relax on the sandy shores, or try optional activities like swimming or paddleboarding. The island’s natural beauty is complemented by its laid-back vibe, making it a perfect spot to unwind amid stunning scenery.

Children Island: A Quiet Swimming Spot

Concluding with Children Island, this smaller, calmer island offers a safe and shallow swimming area for those wanting to cool off or just relax in the water. It’s a nice, low-pressure end to a busy day — just a quick 30-minute stop but a fitting way to wind down.

The Value of the Tour

The $114 per person cost covers boat transportation, a knowledgeable licensed guide, life vests, and all environmental fees, which significantly reduces the hassle and cost of visiting independently. When you consider the inclusions, it offers good value, especially when compared to the cost and effort of organizing your own transport and activity permits.

However, the tour does not include food or drinks, so planning ahead for snacks or a packed lunch is advisable. Some travelers might also find the long ride tiring, as noted by a review describing it as a “brutal 10-hour ride,” so packing snacks, water, and perhaps some entertainment can improve the experience.

The Experience on the Water

The boat ride itself is an integral part of the adventure, offering a chance to enjoy the sea breeze and views of the islands. The boats are generally well-maintained, and a licensed guide is present to ensure everyone stays safe during activities like cliff-jumping or snorkeling.

Guide Expertise and Personalization

One of the tour’s standout features is the guides’ knowledge and assistance. They help you choose activities suited to your comfort level — whether you’re interested in swimming, snorkeling, or jumping from cliffs. Having a dedicated guide makes the day smoother and more enjoyable.

Considerations and Caveats

While the majority of feedback is positive, the long travel time is a hurdle for some. The early start and late return mean you should be prepared for a physically demanding day. Also, weather conditions can impact the experience; tours are weather-dependent, and poor weather could lead to cancellations or rescheduling.

Who Would Be Ideal for This Tour?

This trip is perfect for adventurous travelers who don’t mind a long day and are eager to explore multiple islands in one go. It’s suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities like swimming and cliff-jumping, and who appreciate a guided experience that simplifies logistics. If you’re okay with a long drive and want to maximize your time in the outdoors, this tour offers solid value and memorable scenery.

Final Thoughts

The Hundred Islands Day Tour from Manila provides a well-organized, active day immersed in nature. It’s a good choice for those wanting to see multiple islands with minimal fuss, thanks to inclusive fees and guided support. The trip’s highlight is undoubtedly the variety of outdoor activities available, coupled with the stunning backdrop of the islands’ limestone formations and turquoise waters.

While the journey can be lengthy, the experience on the islands often makes it worth the wait. You’ll get a taste of what the Philippines’ natural beauty has to offer, with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and fun adventures.

This tour is especially valuable for travelers who want a comprehensive day trip that balances adventure, nature, and guided ease. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but still want to enjoy the islands’ magic and have a guide to help navigate your choices.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 4:00 am from the designated meeting point at Starbucks Mall of Asia, so be prepared for an early start.

What is included in the cost?
The $114 fee covers boat transportation, a licensed guide, life vests, environmental fees, and permits. It does not include food or drinks.

How long is the journey from Manila?
The roundtrip van ride takes approximately 10 hours, so expect a long day on the road, but this maximizes your time on the islands.

Are activities like snorkeling and cliff-jumping included?
No, these are optional activities that you can choose to do. Snorkeling often involves an additional fee, and cliff-jumping is at your own risk.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the stops include calm swimming areas such as Children Island, which may be suitable for families with older children comfortable in the water.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, water, snacks, and a camera. Since food isn’t included, packing a picnic or snacks is recommended.

Can I expect good weather?
The tour relies on good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What’s the group size?
The tour caps at 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience and better interaction with guides.

To sum it up, this private day trip to the Hundred Islands offers a fantastic way to explore the Philippines’ natural beauty with the comfort of guided support and all-inclusive pricing. It’s perfect for active travelers who crave adventure and scenic views but are prepared for a long but rewarding day. If you seek a straightforward, fun-filled escape into nature, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.