El Nido and Coron: 3-Day 2-Night Island-Hopping Tour

Imagine floating through crystal-clear waters, waking up on a secluded island, and exploring untouched beaches—all in the company of passionate guides and fellow adventure-seekers. That’s exactly what the El Nido and Coron island-hopping tour promises. This trip isn’t your typical holiday itinerary; it’s an open-ended, flexible voyage that prioritizes authentic experiences, spontaneous adventures, and genuine connection with nature.

What makes this tour special? For starters, the focus on local guides and crew who love sharing their knowledge of Palawan’s secret spots. You’ll also enjoy freshly prepared Filipino meals under the stars, and camp in traditional Nipa Huts that offer a true taste of island life. Lastly, the chance to explore marine life and coral reefs in a laid-back, unstructured way is a real highlight.

One thing to keep in mind: this is a rough-and-ready adventure. The accommodations are simple, the weather can be unpredictable, and there’s a certain charm in sleeping on beaches with the sound of waves as your lullaby. If you’re after luxury or fixed schedules, this might not be your ideal choice. But if you’re craving authenticity, spontaneity, and a crew that treats you like family, then this tour could be perfect.

This experience is best suited for adventure lovers, solo travelers, and those wanting to see Palawan’s raw beauty without the typical tourist crowds. It’s not recommended for children under 16, pregnant women, or wheelchair users, but if you’re ready for a laid-back, flexible escape, this is a fantastic pick.

Good To Know

• Authentic island experience: Sleep in traditional Nipa Huts and wake up on remote beaches.
• Flexible itinerary: Routes change based on weather, tides, and group preferences.
• Expert guides: Local guides like JJ and Madock make the experience safer and more enjoyable.
• Gourmet Filipino food: Meals are freshly cooked and include snacks, with unlimited rum and Coke.
• Wildlife & coral reefs: Snorkel with turtles and explore vibrant marine life.
• Community vibe: Meet people from all over the world and feel like part of a family.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary and What You Can Expect

This tour is all about freedom and discovery. You’ll start either in El Nido or Coron, depending on your booking, and set out on a journey that’s as spontaneous as it is scenic. Rather than a rigid schedule, the day-to-day plan is crafted by the weather, tides, and group energy—meaning each trip feels unique.

Day 1: The Journey Begins

Your adventure kicks off with a briefing where your guides, like JJ, Neil, or Madock, will outline safety tips and answer questions. The boat will be your home for the next couple of days—equipped with a licensed captain, crew, and an onboard chef. Expect to cruise through calm blue waters, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and relaxing on uninhabited islands.

Travelers rave about the knowledgeable guides who go beyond just pointing out sights—they’re eager to involve everyone and share stories about Palawan’s hidden gems. According to reviews, JJ is known for his enthusiasm and dedication, often climbing coconut trees for fresh coconuts or diving for underwater footage.

Day 2 & 3: Unpredictable, Stunning, and Personal

Each day is different, shaped by the weather and group’s desires. Some travelers wake up to pristine beaches, while others experience incredible snorkelling or kayak sessions. You might find yourself exploring secluded sandbars, jumping cliffs into the water, or just lounging on a quiet beach.

Food on board is consistently praised—fresh, tasty, often served under the stars. Reviewers specifically mention the delicious Filipino cuisine and the generous portions, along with unlimited rum and Coke, which keeps spirits high during beach bonfires and karaoke nights.

The camping experience in traditional Nipa Huts is surprisingly comfortable. They come equipped with mattresses, pillows, sheets, and mosquito nets. Although some reviews mention leaking huts during stormy weather, it’s clear that the crew prioritizes safety and keeps the atmosphere upbeat.

Marine Life & Activities

Snorkeling is a major highlight, with many guests describing encounters with sea turtles, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine biodiversity. Some reviewers even mentioned that guides like JJ went diving to capture footage for guests’ GoPros, adding an extra layer of adventure.

Along With snorkeling, activities include kayaking, paddleboarding, volleyball, and even karaoke. These are all tailored to group energy, so you can spend more time soaking up the scenery or playing beach games.

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Remote Campsites & Secluded Spots

Sleeping on uninhabited islands or remote beaches is a standout feature. It’s a chance to wake up overlooking the ocean, enjoy a quiet sunrise, and connect with nature without distractions. Expect simple, rustic accommodations—think open-air huts and outdoor showers—but with all essentials like bedding and mosquito nets.

The Authentic Experience: Why It’s Worth It

The rave reviews highlight the warmth of the crew and guides as a major factor that elevates this trip. Guests like Imogen, Jordan, and Aneta describe it as a “life highlight,” thanks largely to the crew’s dedication, especially guides JJ and Madock, who are lauded for their friendliness, safety-first approach, and ability to involve everyone.

The value for money is also notable. For $335 per person, you get three days of guided island-hopping, all meals, accommodation, activities, snorkeling gear, kayak and paddleboard use, and entrance fees. Considering the inclusions and the personalized, flexible approach, it’s a compelling option for adventurous travelers craving authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Why the Price Is Justified

Travelers frequently mention that the quality of guides, food, and the overall vibe make this tour worth every dollar. The food is described as “incredible,” with fresh ingredients and Filipino flavors that stand out. The guides aren’t just drivers—they’re storytellers and entertainers, making the trip both enjoyable and educational.

The accommodations, while basic, are well-reviewed for their comfort and scenic locations. It’s the kind of experience where you’re sleeping under the stars, which many find more memorable than luxury hotels.

Practical Details & Tips for Your Trip

• Transportation & Timing: The tour operates from either El Nido or Coron, with routes tailored to weather conditions. Be prepared for early mornings and variable weather.
• Group Size: Not specified, but reviews mention lively group activities and opportunities to meet people from around the globe.
• What to Bring: Sunglasses, hat, towel, camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, and cash for environmental fees or personal expenses.
• Packing Tips: Keep a small essentials bag ready; your big luggage is stored on the boat.
• Weather & Conditions: The tour is affected by weather, and sometimes an extra night on an island is necessary if storms delay travel.
• Suitability: Not suitable for children under 16, pregnant women, or wheelchair users due to the physical nature and accommodations.

The Crew & Guides That Make It Special

Multiple guests mention how much they appreciated the guides’ enthusiasm and attention to safety. JJ, for instance, is described as an “amazing guide” who involves everyone, dives for content, climbs trees, and makes the experience fun. The crew is also praised for their friendliness and professionalism, often making guests feel like part of a family.

Highlights from Reviews

• “The crew is amazing, getting the whole group together so you feel like a family.”
• “JJ went free diving for us and climbed coconut trees for fresh coconuts.”
• “The guides and crew made the trip unforgettable—they’re genuinely passionate about Palawan.”

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after an adventure that offers unfiltered access to Palawan’s most breathtaking and hidden spots, this tour delivers. The focus on spontaneity, authentic camping, and local culture makes it stand out from more structured options. It’s particularly suited for solo travelers, adventure lovers, or anyone craving a break from typical tourist trails.

The value for money is excellent given the inclusions, and many reviews emphasize the warm, fun, and dedicated crew that makes the trip memorable. The chance to wake up on remote islands, snorkel with turtles, and share stories around a bonfire is truly priceless.

However, if you prefer luxury accommodations, fixed schedules, or have mobility restrictions, this might not be the best fit. The experience is raw, genuine, and sometimes unpredictable, but that’s part of its charm.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 16 due to the physical nature of camping and activities.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and drinks (including rum and Coke) are all provided on board.

What kind of accommodations are provided?
Traditional Nipa Huts equipped with mattresses, pillows, sheets, and mosquito nets. Some reviews mentioned leaks during storms, so pack accordingly.

Can I snorkel and kayak during the trip?
Absolutely. Snorkel gear, kayaks, and paddleboards are included and praised for their quality and availability.

What is the weather like?
Weather can be unpredictable; routes are adjusted based on tides and conditions. Sometimes an extra night on an island may be necessary if storms come through.

How flexible is the schedule?
Very. Routes are tailored daily, and you can choose to spend more time on certain activities or relax at a secluded beach.

Is this tour eco-friendly?
Fees for environmental conservation are not included, but travelers are reminded to respect nature and avoid littering.

How many people typically go on this tour?
Group sizes aren’t specified, but reviews suggest a lively, social atmosphere with guests from around the world.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, insect repellent, hat, sunglasses, towel, camera, cash, and any personal essentials.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Yes, with the flexibility to reserve and pay later, you can book close to your travel date, but availability may vary.

To sum it up, this 3-day, 2-night island-hopping tour from We Are Juan offers a chance to truly connect with Palawan’s unspoiled beauty. It’s perfect for those ready to embrace adventure, meet new people, and explore stunning, lesser-known spots in a relaxed, authentic way. If you’re after a memorable, off-the-grid experience with passionate guides and delicious Filipino cuisine, this trip is likely to be a highlight of your Philippines journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby