El Nido’s four official island-hopping tours (A, B, C, D) are the main reason most visitors come to Palawan. Each covers different islands and stops in the Bacuit Archipelago. Here is exactly what each tour includes and how to choose.
Table of Contents
Tour Overview
| Tour | Highlights | Best For | Price (shared) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tour A | Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island | First-timers, lagoon lovers | 1,500–1,700 PHP |
| Tour B | Entalula Beach, Cathedral Cave, Pinagbuyutan Island | Caves, quieter beaches | 1,500–1,700 PHP |
| Tour C | Hidden Beach, Helicopter Island, Matinloc Shrine, Secret Beach | Snorkelling, photography | 1,500–1,700 PHP |
| Tour D | Cadlao Lagoon, Bukal Beach, Pasandigan Cove | Least crowded, relaxed pace | 1,500–1,700 PHP |
Tour A — The Classic
Tour A is El Nido’s most famous route and the one most visitors do first. The Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon are iconic — towering limestone walls enclosing impossibly turquoise water. Big Lagoon is explored by kayak (rental 200 PHP); Small Lagoon requires swimming through a narrow passage at high tide. Secret Lagoon is a hidden pool accessible through a small rock hole. Shimizu Island has the best snorkelling on Tour A.
Book Tour A first if this is your only tour — it is the quintessential El Nido experience. Expect 12–15 people on a shared boat.
Tour B — Caves and Quiet Beaches
Tour B is the least popular of the four, which makes it the least crowded. Cathedral Cave (also called Cudugnon Cave) is a large sea cave with impressive rock formations. Entalula Beach is a long white sand beach with good snorkelling. Pinagbuyutan Island has a beautiful beach and calm waters. Tour B suits travellers who want a quieter day after the busy Tour A.
Tour C — Best for Snorkelling
Tour C covers the southern archipelago and has the best snorkelling of the four tours. Helicopter Island’s reef is in excellent condition with diverse marine life. Hidden Beach is accessible only through a rock passage at low tide — a genuinely special spot. Matinloc Shrine offers the best viewpoint in the archipelago (15-minute climb). Secret Beach is a hidden cove inside a limestone cliff, reached by swimming through a narrow gap.
Tour D — The Hidden Gem
Tour D is the least-visited route and arguably the most rewarding for travellers who have already done Tour A. Cadlao Lagoon is a mirror-calm enclosed lagoon on Cadlao Island (the largest in the archipelago). Bukal Beach has excellent snorkelling with fewer visitors than Tour C sites. Pasandigan Cove is a secluded beach with crystal-clear water. Tour D boats often carry only 6–10 passengers.
How to Book
Book at the El Nido Tourism Office on Calle Real (town centre) or through your accommodation. Shared tours depart 9 AM and return 4–5 PM. Private boat hire costs 4,000–6,000 PHP for the full boat (up to 10 people) — worth it for groups of 4+.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which El Nido tour is best?
Tour A for first-timers (iconic lagoons). Tour C for snorkellers. Tour D for those wanting fewer crowds. Tour B for cave enthusiasts.
Can I do multiple tours?
Yes — most visitors do 2–3 tours over their stay. Tours A and C are the most popular combination. Allow one rest day between tours.
What is included in the tour price?
Boat, guide, snorkelling equipment, and a simple lunch (usually grilled fish, rice, and fruit). Environmental fee (200 PHP) is paid separately at the tourism office.
Related: Best Beaches in El Nido · Where to Stay · Budget Guide
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