How to Book an Island-Hopping Tour in El Nido, Palawan

El Nido, Palawan, is a paradise known for its spectacular islands, lagoons, and beaches. To fully experience its natural beauty, island-hopping tours are a must! But how do you apply for or book one of these tours? Here’s a simple guide to help you plan your unforgettable island-hopping adventure.

1. Choose Your Island-Hopping Tour

Before you book, decide which tour you want to take. As mentioned in the previous blog, El Nido offers four main island-hopping tours:

• Tour A: Lagoon Tour (Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Shimizu Island, etc.)
• Tour B: Cave and Island Tour (Snake Island, Cathedral Cave, etc.)
• Tour C: Beach and Snorkeling Tour (Hidden Beach, Matinloc Shrine, Helicopter Island, etc.)
• Tour D: Relaxing and Remote Islands (Cadlao Lagoon, Paradise Beach, etc.)

Each tour offers different attractions, so choose one based on what you want to experience, whether it’s lagoons, beaches, caves, or relaxing remote islands.

2. Where to Book Your Tour

You can book your island-hopping tour in several ways:

Tour Agencies in El Nido

Once you arrive in El Nido town, you’ll find plenty of tour agencies offering island-hopping packages. Most agencies are located near the beach area or along the main street. These agencies usually offer standard rates, and many allow you to negotiate for group discounts.

Online Booking

If you prefer to book in advance, you can find many online travel agencies and websites offering island-hopping tours in El Nido. This option allows you to compare prices, read reviews, and secure your slot ahead of time. Some popular platforms to check out include:

• Klook
• GetYourGuide
• TripAdvisor

Booking online is convenient, especially during peak tourist seasons when tours tend to fill up quickly.

Hotel or Hostel

Many hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in El Nido also offer island-hopping tours. This is a convenient option if you’re staying in El Nido and want everything arranged for you. They can help you organize the tour, provide recommendations, and often give you the chance to join small groups.

What’s Included in the Tour

Most island-hopping tours in El Nido follow a standard package that includes:

• Boat transport: You’ll be taken from the mainland to the different islands and stops on the tour.
• Lunch: A typical tour includes a buffet-style lunch, usually served on one of the islands. Expect grilled seafood, chicken, vegetables, rice, and fresh fruits.
• Snorkeling gear: Some tours provide snorkeling gear, but it’s always good to check in advance or bring your own.
• Life vests: For safety, life vests are provided, especially during the boat rides between islands.

Tour Prices

The price of an island-hopping tour in El Nido is quite affordable, considering the beauty you’ll experience. Here’s a general price range for each tour:

• Tour A: ₱1,200–₱1,400 per person
• Tour B: ₱1,300–₱1,500 per person
• Tour C: ₱1,400–₱1,600 per person
• Tour D: ₱1,200–₱1,400 per person

Prices may vary slightly depending on the tour operator, the season, and any additional services provided. If you’re traveling with a group, you can often negotiate a discounted rate.

The El Nido Environmental Fee

Before going on an island-hopping tour, you’ll need to pay the El Nido Eco-Tourism Development Fee (ETDF). This is a ₱200 fee required for all tourists, and it’s valid for 10 days. You can pay this at the El Nido Tourism Office or your tour operator will arrange it for you. Be sure to keep your receipt as you’ll need to present it before each tour.

What to Bring for Your Island-Hopping Tour

To fully enjoy your tour and make it hassle-free, here’s a checklist of essentials to bring:

• Waterproof bag: Protect your phone, camera, and other valuables from getting wet.
• Reef-safe sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun while also helping to preserve the coral reefs.
• Snorkeling gear: While most tours provide this, bringing your own ensures comfort and fit.
• Swimwear and extra clothes: You’ll be in and out of the water all day, so it’s good to have dry clothes for the boat ride back.
• Towel: For drying off between island stops.
• Water and snacks: Lunch is provided, but it’s a good idea to bring extra snacks and water.
• Cash: You may want to tip the boat crew or buy souvenirs, so it’s good to have some extra money on hand.

When to Book Your Tour

El Nido is beautiful year-round, but the best time for island-hopping tours is during the dry season, which runs from November to May. The weather is calm, and the seas are perfect for boating and swimming. Avoid booking tours during the rainy season (June to October), as trips may get canceled due to rough seas.

Tour Schedule

Most island-hopping tours start in the morning, around 9 AM, and end in the afternoon, around 4 PM. It’s best to arrive at your meeting point 15–30 minutes before the scheduled departure to avoid delays.

What to Expect During the Tour

Island-hopping in El Nido is a fun and memorable experience, but it’s important to be prepared:

• Boat ride: Depending on the tour, you’ll spend 30–45 minutes between island stops. The boats are typically large enough to accommodate 15–20 people.
• Swimming and snorkeling: Most stops will require you to swim from the boat to the beach or lagoon. If you’re not a strong swimmer, don’t worry—life vests are provided.
• Crowds: Some popular destinations, like Big Lagoon or Snake Island, can get crowded, especially during peak season. It’s best to join tours early in the day to beat the rush.

Responsible Tourism

As beautiful as El Nido is, it’s important to practice responsible tourism. Always follow these guidelines to help preserve the natural beauty of the islands:

• Do not litter: Bring back everything you brought with you. Dispose of waste properly to keep the beaches clean.
• Do not touch or step on corals: Corals are fragile ecosystems. Even touching them can cause damage, so be mindful when snorkeling.
• Use eco-friendly products: Reef-safe sunscreen and biodegradable products help protect the marine environment.

Conclusion

Booking an island-hopping tour in El Nido is easy, whether you choose to book online, through a local agency, or your hotel. Each tour offers something different, from lagoons and beaches to caves and snorkeling spots. Make sure to choose the right tour for your interests, pack the essentials, and follow eco-friendly practices to ensure you have a memorable and sustainable experience in El Nido’s paradise.