EL NIDO: Private Island Hopping Tour C w/BUFFET LUNCH

El Nido Private Island Hopping Tour C with Buffet Lunch: A Detailed Review

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, towering limestone cliffs, and secret beaches, then El Nido’s Tour C might be just what you’re looking for. This full-day private tour promises a mix of adventure, relaxation, and awe-inspiring scenery that appeals to nature lovers and explorers alike. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who’ve experienced it firsthand to give you the most balanced, detailed picture.

What makes Tour C stand out? Travelers love the chance to snorkel at Helicopter Island, explore hidden beaches like Secret Beach, and visit the historic Matinloc Shrine—all in one trip. The buffet lunch adds a nice touch of Filipino flavors, and the private group setup ensures a more personalized experience. However, careful planning is needed if you’re sensitive to food safety or boat comfort.

This tour is best suited for those who want an active day out, enjoy discovering lesser-known spots, and value good guides and scenic beauty. It’s a solid choice if you’re after authentic experiences in a relatively flexible and private setting, but keep in mind that some reviews mention inconsistencies in boat condition and food safety concerns.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Good To Know

• Stunning locations: Explore iconic sites like Helicopter Island, Secret Beach, and Matinloc Shrine.
• Snorkeling and kayaking: Plenty of opportunities to see marine life and paddle through lagoons.
• Private group: More personalized and less crowded than big tour boats.
• All-inclusive value: Buffet lunch, snorkeling gear, towels, fruits, and drinks included.
• Time and flexibility: Around 8 hours, with a flexible itinerary subject to weather.
• Potential issues: Food safety concerns and boat maintenance noted by some travelers.

Introduction: What to Expect from Tour C

El Nido’s Tour C is a well-loved choice for travelers craving a day full of exploration and natural beauty. From the start, it offers a convenient pickup within El Nido, making it easy to hop onto a comfortable, licensed boat with a friendly crew. The tour packs several stops into an eight-hour window, including some of the most picturesque and hidden spots in the area.

You’ll love the variety of locations—from the dramatic limestone cliffs of Big Lagoon to the secret treasures of Hidden Beach. The guided nature of the tour means you’ll get insights and tips from knowledgeable locals, boosting the experience beyond just a boat ride. The included buffet lunch is a highlight, offering a hearty meal with Filipino flavors, perfect for refueling after snorkeling and swimming.

However, it’s worth noting that some guests have raised concerns about the boat’s condition and the safety of the food served—something to keep in mind if you’re especially cautious. This tour tends to suit those who prefer a private, flexible, and scenic day out, with a bit of adventure thrown in.

Why Tour C Is Popular: Highlights and Experiences

Discovering Helicopter Island

The journey kicks off at Helicopter Island, named for its helicopter-like shape visible from afar. It’s a snorkeling haven, renowned for its clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. The white sand beach provides a relaxing spot for sunbathing or just soaking in the views. Travelers often mention the abundance of marine life, including the chance to see colorful fishes and corals up close.

A reviewer pointed out, “We saw three turtles on our first snorkel,” which highlights the chance for memorable wildlife encounters. The island’s combination of stunning scenery and calm waters makes it a favorite first stop.

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Exploring Hidden Beach

Next, your boat will take you to Hidden Beach, a true secret of El Nido. Reached by swimming through a narrow opening in the cliffs, the experience is both fun and adventurous. Inside, a pristine white sand haven awaits, surrounded by limestone walls and lush greenery.

This spot is a favorite for those seeking tranquility and a sense of discovery. One traveler shared that “swimming through the opening added an element of mystery,” making it a highlight of the tour. It’s perfect for a quick dip or some snorkeling in clear waters.

The Iconic Secret Beach

Continuing the adventure, Secret Beach offers a more secluded vibe. Requiring a swim through a tiny pass in the cliffs, it’s a real hidden treasure. Once inside, travelers often describe it as peaceful and picturesque, with turquoise waters and towering limestone formations.

The photo opportunities here are plentiful, and the environment feels untouched. It’s a place to relax and enjoy the natural seclusion.

Visiting Matinloc Shrine

Midday, the tour takes you to Matinloc Shrine, a historical and spiritual site perched on a cliff. Built in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding islands and ocean. The site includes a small museum, giving an insightful look into its significance.

A review mentions, “The view from the shrine is breathtaking,” and many appreciate the blend of natural beauty with a touch of culture and history. It’s a great spot for photos and a break from the water activities.

Final Stop at Star Beach

To round out the day, the crew takes you to Star Beach—known for its vibrant coral reefs and calm waters. Snorkelers often spot an array of fish and colorful coral, making it a perfect way to end the tour.

The Buffet Lunch

The included buffet lunch, served on the boat or at a designated stop, features Filipino dishes like rice, noodles, vegetables, and fresh fruits. While most guests appreciate the effort and variety, some have expressed concerns about food safety, with reports of illnesses after the meal. It’s important to be cautious with food safety, especially if you have a sensitive stomach.

The Practical Details: How the Tour Runs

Itinerary Breakdown

• Start: From beachfront travel and tours pickup within El Nido or Corong-corong.
• Helicopter Island: About an hour of sightseeing, snorkeling, and photos.
• Talisay Beach: An hour of swimming, snorkeling, and scenic views.
• Hidden Beach: An hour including swimming through the narrow entrance and relaxing.
• Matinloc Shrine: Around an hour for exploring and panoramic photos.
• Secret Beach: An hour of secluded time, swimming, and photography.
• End: Return to the starting point after about eight hours.

The itinerary is flexible, so the guide may adjust stops based on weather conditions or group preferences.

What’s Included and Not

Included:

• Pickup within El Nido and Corong-corong
• Buffet lunch
• Mask & snorkel
• Towels and water
• Fruits and drinks
• 1 kayak for free
• Life jackets
• Licensed boat, guide, and crew
• Environmental fee (PHP 400)

Not Included:

• Drop-off at your hotel (must be arranged separately)
• Extra kayak rentals
• Any items not explicitly listed

What to Bring

Travelers should pack sunscreen (biodegradable preferred), a waterproof camera, beachwear, water shoes, cash, and a waterproof bag. It’s essential to follow eco-friendly practices by avoiding plastic bags, littering, smoking, or bringing alcohol.

Duration and Flexibility

The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with a start time depending on availability. It’s a private group, making it more intimate and customizable. Keep in mind, the weather can influence the day’s schedule, so flexibility is key.

Real Traveler Insights: Authentic Perspectives

One traveler shared, “All the sites we saw were beautiful, and I would highly recommend Tour C,” but also mentioned concerns about food safety, recounting an illness after the buffet meal. This highlights the importance of cautious eating and perhaps bringing your own snacks if you’re wary.

Another guest appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery, noting, “Raphael and the crew were epic, very personable, and took us to some incredible spots, including the chance to see turtles during snorkeling.”

Some mentioned the boat’s age and mechanical hiccups, noting that “it stopped about four times,” but overall, many still found the experience worthwhile thanks to the scenic stops and friendly staff.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

Adventure seekers and nature lovers will find this tour ideal, given the opportunity to snorkel, kayak, and visit secluded spots. The private setting makes it suitable for couples, families, or small groups wanting more personalized attention. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a full day of exploration with a mix of culture, stunning vistas, and marine encounters.

However, if you’re particularly concerned about food safety or boat comfort, you might want to ask about recent updates or consider bringing your own snacks. Also, those with mobility issues should note that some stops, like Hidden Beach and Secret Beach, require swimming through narrow openings.

Final Thoughts

El Nido’s Tour C offers a compelling blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural sites. With its focus on secluded beaches, vibrant reefs, and historical landmarks, it provides a well-rounded experience of what makes El Nido special. The inclusion of a buffet lunch, snorkeling gear, and flexible itinerary adds value to the $139 price point, especially given the private group setting.

While some concerns about boat condition and food safety have been raised, most travelers still find the experience memorable and worth the cost. The knowledgeable guides and scenic stops make it a standout choice for those wanting a full day of discovery without the crowds.

If you’re eager to explore the hidden gems of El Nido in comfort and style, Tour C is definitely worth considering—just go with an open mind and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, as a private tour, it can be tailored to suit families, but swimming through openings and snorkeling should be considered based on children’s comfort levels.

What is the price of the tour?
It costs $139 per person, which includes most essentials like lunch, snorkeling gear, and environmental fees, offering good value for a full-day private experience.

How long is the tour?
Approximately 8 hours, with starting times depending on availability, giving ample opportunity to explore multiple sites comfortably.

Are the stops weather-dependent?
Yes, some stops may be skipped or altered depending on weather conditions for safety reasons.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a buffet lunch featuring Filipino dishes and fruits is provided, although some guests have raised concerns about food safety.

Can I rent additional equipment?
Only one free kayak is included; additional rentals are available at extra cost.

Will I be picked up from my hotel?
Yes, free pickup within El Nido and Corong-corong is included in the package.

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private group, allowing for a more intimate, customizable journey.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring waterproof sunscreen, a waterproof camera, cash, beachwear, water shoes, and a waterproof bag.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of stops and boat access.

In summary, El Nido’s Tour C offers an authentic, scenic, and engaging way to experience some of the area’s best-kept secrets. Perfect for those who love adventure and natural beauty, it’s a memorable way to spend a day in this tropical paradise—just keep an eye on food safety and boat conditions.

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