El Nido: Private Tour B with Snake Island and Caves

Imagine spending a full day exploring some of the most captivating sights of El Nido, without the hassle of planning or crowds. That’s precisely what this Private Tour B offers—an expertly curated experience that combines adventure, relaxation, and a touch of history. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for a second taste of the Philippines’ famed island scenery, this tour promises memorable moments at every stop.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the guided exploration of Snake Island with its winding sandbar is truly breathtaking—an iconic photo opportunity. Second, the visit to Cudugnon Cave offers a glimpse into the island’s mysterious past, pairing natural beauty with intrigue. That said, the tour’s duration—around 7 hours—means it’s a good fit for those prepared for a day on the water and some light hiking. If you’re seeking a laid-back, yet adventure-rich outing with knowledgeable guides, this tour could be ideal. Do keep in mind that it involves a fair bit of time on boats and walking, so it’s best suited for travelers with moderate fitness and no seasickness.

Contents hide

1 An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and What You Can Expect

2 What’s Included and What to Bring

3 Who Will Love This Tour?

4 The Value and Overall Impression

5 Frequently Asked Questions

Key Points

Stunning Photo Opportunities: Snake Island’s winding sandbar and Cathedral Cave’s rock formations are picture-perfect.
Rich Exploration: Guided tours of caves and island stops give a deeper appreciation of the natural landscape.
Flexible Itinerary: The tour includes a strategic change in plans if some spots are busy.
Good Value: At $28 per person, it offers a comprehensive experience with guided insight.
Active Day: Expect a mix of swimming, hiking, and sightseeing that suits a moderate fitness level.
Authentic Experience: Small, private groups foster a more intimate and engaging adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and What You Can Expect

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in El Nido.

Starting Point and Flexibility

The tour kicks off at one of two locations—Marber’s or Marbers Beach Club—making it convenient whether you’re staying closer to town or near the beach. This flexibility is often appreciated by travelers, allowing easy access without long transfers. The start times vary, so checking availability in advance ensures you can plan accordingly.

Snake Island and the Winding Sandbar

The first highlight is Snake Island, famous for its serpentine-shaped sandbar. This natural wonder is not only a fantastic photo op but also offers a peaceful setting for a leisurely walk or swim. The tour includes a guided visit, giving insights into the formation and significance of this feature. You’ll have about an hour here, which feels just right to soak in the views without feeling rushed.

Cudugnon Cave: A Touch of Mystery

Next, the boat takes you to Cudugnon Cave, an ancient cavern that hints at the island’s mysterious past. The guided tour here lasts about 30 minutes. Inside, you’ll find interesting rock formations and a quiet spot to reflect on the natural history of the area. One reviewer noted, “the locations we went to were all excellent,” and the guides often adapt the schedule if the site is crowded—showing flexibility and attentiveness.

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Lunch at Pasandigan Island

Midday, the boat anchors at Pasandigan Island for a one-hour lunch break, typically on the boat or a designated island spot. While snacks aren’t included, bringing your own is recommended. The setting here is peaceful, with calm waters perfect for a quick swim or some relaxation on the beach.

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Snake Island Revisited & Hiking

After lunch, there’s a return visit to Snake Island, where you can hike part of the island, explore more of the sandbar, or just snap additional photos. The hike is about an hour, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes. One trip reviewer praised the guides’ responsiveness, noting, “Arnold switched up the itinerary when the busy spots were crowded,” which speaks to their attentiveness.

Entalula Beach: A Tropical Oasis

The tour’s highlight for many is Entalula Beach, regarded as a pristine, powdery white-sand haven. Here, you get about an hour for swimming, sunbathing, or just soaking in the natural beauty. The calm, clear waters make it ideal for snorkeling if you bring your gear. It’s a relaxing end to the active part of your day, with guides encouraging everyone to unwind and enjoy.

Cathedral Cave: A Grand Finale

Finally, the Cathedral Cave impresses visitors with its towering rock formations that resemble a cathedral’s interior. This photo stop and guided visit takes about 30 minutes. Its dramatic appearance makes it a favorite among travelers, with many commenting on how the guides enhanced the experience. “Really well put together, great team,” said one reviewer, emphasizing the high quality of guides and organization.

Ending at the Dockyard

The tour wraps up back at the Dockyard, bringing closure to a well-rounded day of exploration and relaxation. The return trip is smooth, giving you time to reflect on the day’s highlights.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour includes all guiding services, visits to Snake Island and Cudugnon Cave, leisure time at Entalula Beach, and exploration of Pasandigan Island. Given the price—just $28 per person—this offers excellent value for a full day immersed in natural beauty and guided insight.

What to pack? Think comfortable shoes for walking and hiking, hat and sunscreen to protect against the sun, swimwear for dips in the water, a camera to capture the scenery, snacks for energy, and plenty of water. Remember, the tour is about 6-7 hours long, and while it’s mostly relaxed, moderate fitness is recommended.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals most to travelers who want a full-day adventure that blends natural beauty, cultural intrigue, and active exploration. It’s great for those who appreciate guided insights and like to see a variety of sights in one trip. Families with children might find it suitable, given the manageable pace and engaging stops, but those with mobility issues or prone to seasickness should consider their comfort, as the tour involves boats and some walking.

The Value and Overall Impression

At just $28, this private tour offers remarkable value—covering half a dozen significant sights with a knowledgeable guide. The reviews speak to the quality of the guides and the stunning locations, making it clear that this tour delivers on its promise of memorable sights and a smooth, well-organized day. The flexibility to adapt the itinerary if spots are crowded demonstrates attentive planning, enhancing the experience.

For travelers seeking a comprehensive, authentic look at El Nido’s island treasures without the hassle of self-organizing logistics, this tour checks many boxes. It’s especially suited for those who don’t mind a busy day and want to maximize their exposure to the natural wonders of the area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 6 to 7 hours, with start times that vary depending on your booking.

Where does the tour start?
It starts at either Marber’s or Marbers Beach Club, based on your choice.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most likely, yes—if your children are comfortable with boat trips and moderate walking. The itinerary involves some physical activity but is not overly strenuous.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, hat, swimwear, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. Snacks aren’t included, so pack your own.

Are there options for private groups?
Yes, private group arrangements are available, making it more personalized.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included, but there’s time to bring your own or purchase food at the stops.

Who is this tour not suitable for?
People with mobility impairments or those prone to seasickness may find this tour challenging.

What makes Snake Island special?
Its winding sandbar creates a dramatic, scenic spot ideal for photos, walks, and swimming.

What do I get at Cathedral Cave?
A guided visit to see the impressive rock formations that resemble a cathedral, perfect for photos and appreciating natural architecture.

To sum it up, this Private Tour B around El Nido offers an excellent mix of natural beauty, guided insights, and active exploration—all at a very reasonable price. It’s perfect for curious travelers who love to see a variety of sights without sacrificing comfort or quality. With attentive guides and stunning scenery, it’s a day that will likely leave you with plenty of unforgettable memories—so long as you’re prepared for a full day on the water and walking.