Summary
El Nido is renowned for its breathtaking island scenery in the Philippines, with shared boat tours being the optimal way to explore this beautiful area.
The island hopping tours in El Nido are categorized into four distinct areas: Tour A, Tour B, Tour C, and Tour D. Each tour promises incredible experiences, making it difficult to pick the “best” tour since they all offer unique attractions!
This article delves into El Nido Tour C and outlines what travelers can expect: Matinloc Shrine, Tapiutan Island, Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, and Helicopter Island.
El Nido Tour C – What To Expect
El Nido Tour C encompasses 4-5 picturesque stops, with travelers typically spending about 45-60 minutes at each main location (excluding Matinloc Shrine).
Although your tour guide may indicate 30-45 minutes at each stop, expect the duration to extend closer to an hour at most locations due to the pace of the group.
The entire tour operates from 9 AM to 5 PM (or later) to accommodate boat travel between islands. Fortunately, even the transit segments are visually stunning and perfect for capturing memorable photos!
Lunch on the Tour
Each tour includes a complimentary lunch on the boat, typically featuring grilled fish, pork, chicken, vegetables, rice, and an assortment of fresh fruit such as pineapple and watermelon.
The quality of the food is excellent. While some may have concerns about hygiene during the food preparation on these boat tours, we experienced no issues during our many tours.
Important Rules to Follow
At the beginning of the tour, your guide will outline important rules regarding island hopping.
One significant rule prohibits collecting coral, sand, and marine life such as starfish. This regulation is crucial for protecting the islands from the overwhelming number of tourists that visit each year.
Although life jackets are mandated during boat travel, enforcement is usually relaxed, except when departing from the harbor, where coast guard oversight is more likely.
Plastic water bottles are technically forbidden on the boat tours; however, this rule is often overlooked. Just be sure to dispose of any waste responsibly once you return to El Nido town!
Conservation Fee Details
Tourists must pay a mandatory conservation fee/tourist tax of 200 pesos ($4 USD) for island hopping in El Nido. This cost is separate from the tour fees and is valid for ten days; hence, it’s likely you’ll only need to pay it once. Remember to keep your ticket safe, as losing it will require purchasing a new one!
Notable Attractions on Tour C
• Matinloc Shrine
This small beach features abandoned structures, including an old Catholic shrine resembling a Greek gazebo. Matinloc Shrine is typically the shortest stop on Tour C, and while some tours may skip it, it is a fascinating site with good snorkeling opportunities!
• Tapiutan Island
Tapiutan Island is characterized by its rugged terrain and multiple sandy beaches, perfect for leisurely lunch breaks. The most notable spots include Talisay Beach and Star Beach; however, the exact location depends on the crowd that day. Talisay Beach is the largest but can be crowded, while the others offer serene views. Additionally, the island offers fantastic drone photography opportunities!
• Secret Beach
Accessible via a hole in the rocks, visitors must swim through the opening to reach this small beach. The swim is straightforward and friendly for those using life jackets. Inside awaits a hidden realm of pointed limestone rocks.
• Hidden Beach
Located on the opposite side of Matinloc Island, this hidden cove features a larger beach surrounded by breathtaking cliffs. A short swim through shallow waters leads to the tranquil, sandy beach. Capturing drone views from this location reveals stunning scenery of Tapiutan Strait, with Matinloc Island’s tip resembling an elephant face!
• Helicopter Island
Known for its aerial resemblance to a helicopter, Dilumacad Island also evokes the form of a whale or dolphin. This idyllic spot boasts a large beach, ample photo opportunities, and affordable coconut sellers, allowing visitors to unwind on the pristine sands after a fulfilling day of exploring.
Best El Nido Tour Package
For those seeking exceptional value, Klook offers highly-rated El Nido boat tours at competitive prices.
Their package for Tour C, priced at 1,300 pesos ($25 USD), includes all the stops: Helicopter Island, Matinloc Shrine, Secret Beach, Tapiutan Island, and Hidden Beach, alongside complimentary lunch and hotel pickup. This pricing often undercuts many local tour companies.
Booking your tour online not only secures a good deal but also allows for payment via credit card or Paypal, eliminating the need for frequent ATM visits—an added convenience given the often unreliable ATMs in El Nido.
Packing List for the Tour
To make the most of your El Nido Tour C, consider bringing the following items:
- Swimwear and beach towel
- Comfortable footwear
- Sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses)
- Snorkeling gear (if not provided)
- Waterproof bag for electronics
- Cash for personal expenses
Where We Stayed
During our visit, we chose to stay at David’s Guesthouse in El Nido town for 1,600 pesos ($31 USD) per night. This cost provided us with a clean double room, cold A/C, and a private bathroom.
It is essential to note that El Nido is a relatively remote destination, with its accommodation options still developing to meet increasing demand. Therefore, expectations for luxury should be adjusted.
Nonetheless, this guesthouse emerged as one of the best budget-friendly options we found. Its central location—just a 3-minute walk to the beach and nearby restaurants—was convenient, and the owner was incredibly helpful in organizing our island hopping tours. Prices may vary, so it is advisable to stay alert for good deals.
El Nido Hotels
