Siargao: Jellyfish Sohoton Cove Tour with Lunch and Pickup

If you’re exploring the Philippines, the Siargao Jellyfish Sohoton Cove Tour is one of those excursions that promises a mix of natural wonders, adventure, and scenic beauty. It’s a full-day trip that takes you from Siargao’s laid-back beaches into the more rugged, untouched landscapes of Surigao del Norte. We’ve looked into what this tour offers—based on reviews, the itinerary, and the experience shared by past travelers—to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What we love about this tour are the stunning views of Sohoton Cove, the unique experience of swimming with stingless jellyfish, and the thrilling cave jumps. The lunch at Naquiawit Island adds a relaxing touch, and the knowledgeable guides help make the journey smooth. However, a key consideration is the long boat ride—about two hours each way—which could be tiring for some. This tour is best suited for those craving an outdoor adventure paired with scenic exploration and who don’t mind spending a good part of the day on water.

Good To Know

• Beautiful natural landscapes with limestone formations, lagoons, and caves
• Educational and fun experience swimming with stingless jellyfish
• Long boat transfers mean time on the water, not just on land
• Guides are knowledgeable and helpful, enhancing safety and understanding
• Price point offers good value considering entrance fees, lunch, and transfers
• Not ideal for those prone to seasickness or looking for quick, high-intensity activities

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The Itinerary and What to Expect

Getting There: Starting from Siargao

The tour begins with early hotel pickups in General Luna, generally around 6:00 to 7:00 AM. From there, you’ll head to the pier for a boat transfer across the sea, which typically takes about 1 to 2 hours. During this ride, you’ll get to enjoy the vast, open ocean views—perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the scenery. Keep in mind, the boat ride is quite loud, but most guides provide headsets to help you hear the commentary.

Entering Sohoton Cove

Once you arrive at the entrance of Sohoton Cove, you’ll find yourself in a protected area spanning roughly 841 hectares within the Samar Island Natural Park. This park is a natural treasure chest filled with caves, rivers, waterfalls, limestone formations, and lush forests. The boat can’t go all the way inside due to size restrictions, so you will switch to paddle boats for the next part of your adventure.

Exploring Sohoton Cove

As you paddle into the cove, you’ll pass through a tunnel cave beneath a towering mountain. This small tunnel is a photo-worthy moment; just be mindful of your head and follow your guide’s instructions. The scenery is truly magnificent—stunning rock formations, clear waters, and lush greenery surround you.

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The Highlight: Tiktikan Lagoon

The Tiktikan Lagoon is often considered the star of this tour, especially on bright, sunny days. The calm, vibrant blue waters are ideal for swimming, relaxing, or just floating and enjoying nature. The lagoon’s serenity offers a peaceful break from the more active parts of the tour.

The Adventure: Magkukuob Cave

Next up is the famous cliff-jumping site at Magkukuob Cave. Here, you’ll jump from the boat into the water and swim to the cave’s entrance. Inside, the low ceiling demands helmet protection, and guides carry torches to navigate the darkness. The challenge isn’t just the swim but also the short, steep jump onto a wooden platform afterward—about five meters above the water.

A review shared that “the ceiling is quite low while you search for the exit,” adding a layer of thrill to this part. Several travelers find this segment the most exciting, although some think the activity is over relatively quickly.

The Jellyfish Sanctuary

One of the most unusual parts of this trip is the stingless jellyfish sanctuary. You’ll board a small boat with a guide paddling you gently across a tranquil lake filled with tiny jellyfish. While swimming isn’t permitted, the sight of these gentle creatures gliding just below the surface is captivating. Keep in mind, the water can look blurry, and unless you’re comfortable diving or swimming deeper, seeing the jellyfish clearly might be a challenge. One reviewer noted, “You don’t see them unless you can dive 5 meters, and the water is blurry,” highlighting that the experience is more about the visual wonder rather than an up-close encounter.

Lunch and Relaxation

A satisfying lunch at Naquiawit Island is included in the tour fee, offering a break and a chance to enjoy a meal amid nature. The island’s pristine setting makes for a memorable dining experience, and most visitors find the food decent and filling.

End of the Day: Club Tara Resort Views

The final highlight is a boat ride past Club Tara Resort, located on Bucas Grande Island. This spot is famous for its breathtaking sunsets and clear lagoons—a perfect photo op and a calming end to a busy day.

Practical Details and Tips

Transport and Duration

The entire experience involves a long boat ride (about 2 hours each way), which is a significant part of the trip. While the scenery is stunning, it can be tiring, especially if you’re not accustomed to boat travel. The tour duration is roughly from early morning to late afternoon, with an estimated return around 5 PM.

What’s Included

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Boat transfers
• Guided tour with knowledgeable guides
• Entrance fees to Sohoton and related sites
• Lunch at Naquiawit Island

What’s Not Included

• Additional water sports or snorkeling gear (costs around P150-P200)
• Other meals not specified

What to Bring

Make sure to pack:

• Comfortable shoes and swimwear
• Extra change of clothes for after water activities
• A camera for photos
• Sunscreen, insect repellent, and water to stay hydrated

Important Restrictions

• Not suitable for those prone to seasickness due to the long boat rides
• Not recommended for travelers over 95 years old
• Smoking, littering, or touching plants is prohibited for environmental protection

Application of Past Reviews and Insights

One traveler expressed disappointment, saying, “The tour is misleading, and activities are very short,” highlighting that the overall experience varies depending on expectations. They also pointed out that “you don’t see the jellyfish unless you dive 5 meters,” which is worth considering if you’re hoping for close encounters with marine life.

In contrast, another visitor described it as “well worth the boat ride from General Luna,” appreciating the natural beauty and the knowledgeable guides who made the trip smooth and informative.

The long boat ride is both a highlight and a drawback—it offers stunning views but can feel lengthy. The guides tend to be knowledgeable and helpful, which enhances safety and understanding, especially during the cave explorations.

The Sum Up: Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventurers who love outdoor exploration. If you’re keen on caves, lagoons, and scenic boat rides, this experience will keep you engaged. The inclusion of an actual jellyfish sanctuary makes it unique, especially for travelers interested in marine life, even if it’s more about observation than contact.

However, those seeking quick, action-packed activities or with seasickness concerns might find the long boat rides and relatively brief activities less satisfying. The tour offers good value considering the entrance fees, lunch, and guided expertise, but it’s important to set expectations about the duration and activity length.

Overall, if you’re prepared for a full day on the water with breathtaking scenery and a touch of adventure, this tour can be a memorable part of your Siargao trip.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long is the boat ride to Sohoton Cove?
The boat transfer from Siargao to Sohoton Cove usually takes about 1 to 2 hours each way, so expect a total of around 2-4 hours on the water.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a change of clothes, a camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, and water. These will help you stay comfortable and prepared for the day.

Is snorkeling included in the tour?
Snorkel gear is not included in the standard package and costs around P150-P200 if you choose to rent it.

Can I swim with the jellyfish?
No, swimming isn’t permitted in the jellyfish sanctuary. You will stay in a boat while observing the small jellyfish just below the surface.

How is the lunch at Naquiawit Island?
The included lunch is typically simple but satisfying, offering a good break amid the natural setting. Most travelers find it adequate for the day’s activity.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, guides are generally well-informed and helpful, explaining the sites and ensuring safety during cave explorations and other activities.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
It depends on physical ability and comfort with boat rides; it’s not recommended for those over 95 years old or prone to seasickness.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Weather can influence the schedule, possibly leading to itinerary changes or delays. Always check with your tour provider for updates.

In summary, the Siargao Jellyfish Sohoton Cove Tour offers a blend of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxing moments, making it a worthwhile day trip for those seeking an immersive outdoor experience. Keep your expectations aligned with the long boat rides and brief activities, and you’ll likely find it a memorable part of your Philippines journey.

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