BANTAYAN ISLAND TOUR PACKAGE: LAND AND ISLAND HOPPING

Our review of the Bantayan Island Tour Package offers a detailed look at a well-rounded adventure designed for travelers eager to explore the natural beauty of this hidden gem in the Philippines. While we haven’t personally taken the tour, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it’s a great option for those craving authentic, scenic, and culturally interesting experiences without breaking the bank.

Two standout features of this tour are its emphasis on stunning natural landscapes—from white sandy beaches to dramatic rock formations—and the inclusion of authentic local sights like mangroves, caves, and ruins, all guided by knowledgeable local guides. A possible consideration is the duration—about 5 hours—which means it’s perfect for a half-day adventure but might feel rushed if you’re looking to relax at each stop longer.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of beach relaxation, scenic exploration, and cultural sights. It’s particularly appealing for those who prefer a private group feel, value good guides, and appreciate the convenience of a full package that includes transportation, entrance fees, and snorkeling gear.

Key Points

• Comprehensive package including land tour and island hopping with all major entrance fees covered
• Authentic experiences such as mangroves, caves, and ruins that tell local stories
• Beautiful natural scenery—white sands, rock formations, and crystal-blue waters
• Flexibility and convenience with pickup, guided support, and all gear included
• Ideal for travelers seeking a half-day, well-organized adventure with a focus on nature and cultural sights
• Not suitable for pregnant women or babies under 1 year, but great for active explorers

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of Bantayan Island Tour Package: Land and Island Hopping

This tour offers an attractive mix of land exploration and island hopping, ideal for those who want a broad taste of Bantayan Island’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning each detail. Starting with a pickup from your accommodation, the journey begins with a multicab—a small, open-sided vehicle perfect for getting close to nature and making the most of the tropical breeze.

The first stop is Mangroves Forest, also known as Camp Sawi, made famous by the movie filmed there. It’s a serene spot where you can wander among the mangroves and snap some Instagram-worthy photos. The lush greenery combined with the calm waters creates a peaceful start to your adventure.

Next, you’ll traverse the Coconut Road, inspired by Siargao, which is lined with towering coconut trees and provides a quintessential tropical backdrop. It’s a perfect photo op and a reminder of the island’s lush landscape.

The tour then moves to Paradise Beach, also called Sandira, known for its tiny white sands and intriguing rock formations. It’s an excellent spot for sunbathing or just relaxing with your toes in the sand. The shallow waters also make it safe for swimming.

German Ruins follow, offering a glimpse into an unfinished house built by a German, now a popular cliff-diving site with a scenic backdrop. Visitors have highlighted its “amazing ruined backdrop up in the sky” and the thrill of cliff diving here. It’s a mix of history and adventure, appealing for both culture lovers and adrenaline seekers.

The Ogtong Cave wraps up the land tour portion, providing a cool, refreshing experience with its seawater-connected cold waters. The cave’s mysterious atmosphere offers a change from the tropical sunshine, and the connection to the ocean adds an element of adventure.

Finally, the Kota Sandbar—a stunning spot for sunset views—caps off the land tour. Its shallow waters and pristine sands make it an ideal place to relax and reflect on your day.

The island hopping segment takes you to Virgin Island, Hilantagaan Island, and Baigad Lagoon, offering a taste of Bantayan’s surrounding islets. You’ll enjoy a 5-6 hour boat trip, with opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and soaking in untouched scenery.

What’s Included and What You Get for Your Money

The package’s value lies in its inclusiveness: all entrance fees, tour guide, driver, transportation, safety gear, snorkeling sets, and ecological fees are covered. This means no hidden costs or surprises as you explore. The guides are fluent in English and Japanese, which adds a layer of comfort for international travelers.

For the price of $191 per group (up to 2 people), you’re getting a well-organized, full-day experience that combines cultural sights, natural beauty, and fun water activities. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and life jackets makes it accessible for those new to water sports, although some reviews mention that the snorkeling conditions can vary depending on weather and tide.

The tour’s timing—about 5 hours—fits well into a morning or afternoon slot, giving you ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The private group setup ensures a more personalized experience, but it can also be a good value for couples or small groups wanting a customized adventure.

Transport and Comfort

Traveling in a multicab offers an open-air feel, perfect for tropical weather. The pick-up arrangement is seamless, with the driver or guide calling ahead to coordinate. The journey between stops is relatively short, allowing you to maximize your time at each location.

While the stops are mostly outdoors, and the terrain is straightforward, expect some walking and possibly uneven surfaces, especially at beaches and caves. There’s no mention of strenuous activity, but comfortable footwear and sun protection are advisable.

Authenticity and Unique Highlights

What sets this tour apart are the authentic local sights like the German Ruins and Mangroves Forest—less touristy than more commercialized destinations. The Coconut Road inspired by Siargao offers a unique photo opportunity that captures the essence of tropical Philippines.

The cliff diving at the German Ruins is often highlighted for its thrill factor, complemented by beautiful scenery. The Ogtong Cave with its seawater connection provides a cool, slightly mystical experience, a highlight for many travelers.

The Kota Sandbar’s sunset views are a perfect ending, offering panoramic vistas and a tranquil environment.

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What Past Travelers Say

While reviews vary, many mention the knowledgeable guides as a highlight, praising their friendliness and local insights. The stunning views, especially at the sandbar and cliffs, are also consistently appreciated. One reviewer noted that the guided support and gear made snorkeling accessible even for beginners.

However, some mention that the tour can be a bit rushed, especially if you want more time at each stop. Still, most agree the experience offers great value for the price, combining scenic beauty with cultural sights.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Bring your camera—there are plenty of picturesque spots. Wear beachwear and take sunscreen to stay comfortable throughout the day. Since the tour is private, you can tailor your focus—whether that’s more beach time, snorkeling, or sightseeing.

If you’re not comfortable cliff diving or are pregnant or traveling with very young children, check the details because the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women or babies under one year.

In The Sum Up

This Bantayan Island Tour Package balances adventure, relaxation, and cultural sights in a single half-day. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see a variety of natural wonders and learn some local stories without spending a full day. The inclusion of snorkeling, scenic stops, and knowledgeable guides makes it a strong choice for those who appreciate well-organized, authentic experiences.

The price reflects good value when considering all the fees and gear included, especially if you prefer a private group experience with flexible options. Whether you’re keen on snapping photos of rock formations, exploring caves, or chilling at quiet beaches, this tour offers a comprehensive taste of Bantayan’s charm.

It’s an excellent choice for curious explorers, nature lovers, and small groups seeking a memorable, well-organized adventure on this beautiful island.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, pickup from your accommodation and transport during the tour are included. The travel is in a multicab vehicle suitable for tropical climates.

What should I bring? Bring a camera, beachwear, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection. Comfortable footwear is also recommended for walking around sites.

Are there any age restrictions? The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or babies under 1 year.

How long does the tour last? The entire itinerary takes about 5 hours, making it ideal as a half-day activity.

Are meals included? No, meals are not included, but arrangements for lunch during the land and island hopping can be made.

What islands are visited on the island hopping? The boat trip visits Virgin Island, Hilantagaan Island, and Baigad Lagoon.

Is snorkeling gear provided? Yes, snorkeling sets and safety life jackets are included, suitable for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.

This tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and culturally enriching experience of Bantayan Island that will leave you with beautiful memories and plenty of photos to prove it.

You can check availability for your dates here: