El Nido: Snake Island and Cave Tour with Island Lunch

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2 An Honest Look at the El Nido Snake Island and Cave Tour

Introduction

If you’re considering a day of exploring El Nido’s famous islands, the Snake Island and Cave Tour offers a chance to see some of Palawan’s most striking sights without breaking the bank. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on reviews and tour descriptions, this trip promises a good dose of natural beauty, adventure, and a taste of local life.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its focus on highlighting the unique features of El Nido—from the iconic S-shaped sandbar at Snake Island to the eerie grandeur of the caves. The inclusion of a local guide, boat transfers, and a picnic lunch makes it a practical choice, especially for travelers seeking an all-in-one experience.

One potential snag is the price of the environmental fee—P400 per person—plus some reviews highlight issues with organization and timing. Still, if you’re flexible and open to minor hiccups, this tour offers an authentic peek into Palawan’s lush landscape. It’s best suited for travelers who want a well-rounded, scenic adventure and don’t mind sharing the boat with others or dealing with some unpredictability.

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Key Points

Stunning scenery at multiple stops, including Snake Island’s iconic sandbar and the impressive limestone caves
All-in-one package with boat transfers, guide service, and a picnic lunch for convenience
Flexible options for starting points and group sizes, including private groups
Potential organization issues noted in reviews, so patience may be necessary
Affordable price point relative to the variety of sights and experiences offered
Ideal for those wanting a complete, scenic day with a mix of adventure and relaxation

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

An Honest Look at the El Nido Snake Island and Cave Tour

This tour offers a comprehensive experience of some of El Nido’s most photogenic and interesting sites, all packed into about 6 hours. It’s operated by TravelExplr Travel and Tours, and costs around $43 per person, which includes boat transfers, a local guide, and a picnic lunch—a good value for an adventurous day exploring Palawan’s waters and caves.

Starting Points and Group Flexibility

You have two options for starting locations: Marber’s or Jarace Grill. This flexibility can make pickup more convenient depending on where you’re staying or meeting up. The tour typically concludes back at your starting point, making logistical planning easier.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Snake Island
This is the tour’s star attraction. The highlight is the S-shaped sandbar, which stretches across the turquoise waters. Walking along this unique feature offers unforgettable views, perfect for photos. From the hilltop, you get a panoramic perspective that really captures the island’s beauty. Several reviews mention how gorgeous these locations are, with one traveler simply stating, “The islands are beautiful. Gorgeous locations.”

Stop 2: Cudugnon Cave
This cave is noted for its mysterious, ancient atmosphere and historical significance. You’ll enter through a narrow opening, revealing limestone walls that seem to tell stories of the past. The cave’s archaeological treasures and impressive formations make this a favorite for those interested in geology and history. One reviewer describes it as “awe-inspiring,” although some noted that access involves a boat ride and narrow entry points, so be prepared for some light adventure.

Stop 3: Cathedral Cave
With its cathedral-like arches, this limestone structure provides a dramatic backdrop for photos. Accessible only by boat, the cave’s grand entrance and striking formations are often described as “unforgettable.” The experience here emphasizes the natural artistry of Palawan’s landscape.

Stop 4: Popolkan Beach and Island Lunch
After exploring caves, you’ll relax at Popolkan Beach, a quiet spot with fine white sand and clear waters. It’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply unwinding. The highlight of the tour is the 2-hour island lunch on Entalula Island, a private gem with thriving reefs just offshore. Snorkeling here is a common activity, and some reviews highlight the vibrant coral reefs as a major draw.

Stop 5: Free Time and Photo Stop
A final hour provides flexibility—whether for taking last photos, swimming, or just soaking up the scenery. You might find that delays happen, as one traveler noted being about 2 hours late but still enjoying the trip.

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What’s Included and What You Need to Know

The inclusive features—boat transfers, a licensed guide, and a picnic lunch—add convenience that makes the tour approachable for first-timers. However, some essentials are not included: the P400 environmental fee per person, equipment like snorkel masks and fins, or water shoes. Be sure to bring cash for the fee and any extras.

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Real Traveler Insights

While most reviews are positive about the scenery, some travelers have experienced disorganization. One person wrote, “I had no choice but to put 1 star because it was the worst activity I could do,” citing poor organization, delays, and communication issues. Conversely, another commented, “Despite being about 2 hours late, the tour was very good.” These mixed reviews suggest that patience and flexibility are key when booking.

Practical Considerations

The tour lasts about 6 hours, so packing essentials like swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, and a change of clothes is wise. You’ll want to bring cash for the environmental fee and any souvenirs or snacks. The tour doesn’t include kayak rentals or snorkeling gear, so if you’re keen on those activities, you might want to bring your own or rent separately.

The Value for Money

At $43, this tour offers a lot of different experiences—stunning sandbars, caves, beaches, and snorkeling spots—at a reasonable price. The combination of guided commentary and scenic stops makes it a practical choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive introduction to El Nido’s highlights without the hassle of organizing separate excursions. The inclusion of lunch and transfers simplifies planning, especially for those unfamiliar with the area.

The Sum Up

This Snake Island and Cave Tour in El Nido provides an excellent way to see some of Palawan’s most eye-catching sights, from the iconic S-shaped sandbar to dramatic limestone caves. It’s a well-rounded experience that balances adventure with relaxation, all at an affordable price. The scenic views, especially at Snake Island and the caves, are bound to be memorable.

While the experience isn’t without its organizational quirks—delays and some communication issues—most travelers find the overall value outweighs these minor inconveniences. The tour is particularly suited for those who want a full day of scenic highlights, enjoy boat rides, and are flexible with timing.

If you’re after a cost-effective, scenic introduction to El Nido’s natural wonders, this tour fits the bill nicely. Just remember to bring water, waterproof bags, and patience, and you’ll likely walk away with some spectacular photos and memories.

FAQs

Is there a specific start time for the tour?
Start times vary, so check availability when booking. You’ll be notified of the exact departure time based on your selected starting point.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your passport or ID, swimwear, a change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, and cash. Also, consider waterproof bags for your valuables, especially if it rains or you plan to swim.

Are the boat transfers included?
Yes, boat transfers are part of the tour package, along with the guide service and lunch.

Do I need to pay the environmental fee separately?
Yes, the P400 environmental fee must be paid on-site at the transport terminal, hotel, or municipal hall before the tour. Keep your QR code for verification.

Can I rent snorkeling gear?
Snorkel masks and fins are not included in the package. You might find rental options available locally, but they’re not part of the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
While most stops involve boat rides and walking, some parts like caves and sandbars could be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. Use your discretion.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour might be canceled or rescheduled due to weather conditions, especially for activities involving boat rides. Check the weather forecast and communicate with your provider.

Can I customize this tour or have a private group?
Yes, private groups are available, which can offer more flexibility and personalized timing.

What if I am late or need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you’re late or cancel later, policies may vary, so check with the provider.

Will I get enough time at each stop?
The itinerary allocates about an hour at each cave and snake island, with longer at the lunch stop. Delays are possible but most find the timing sufficient for photos and brief exploration.

This detailed review should help you decide if the El Nido Snake Island and Cave Tour matches your travel style. It’s a solid choice for scenic lovers eager to see the best of Palawan’s waters and caves, provided you’re prepared for a full day and some minor surprises.