El Nido:Private Tour D with Highlights Small & Cadlao Lagoon

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, towering limestone cliffs, and secluded beaches, then El Nido’s Tour D offers an appealing way to experience these wonders without breaking the bank. For just $25 per person, this six-hour adventure promises a carefully curated journey through some of the most photogenic and peaceful spots on Cadlao Island and beyond.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to kayak through Small Lagoon surrounded by sheer cliffs delivers a sense of serene isolation that’s hard to find elsewhere. Second, the visit to Cadlao Lagoon offers emerald waters and dramatic rock formations perfect for swimming or simply soaking in natural beauty.

That said, a few considerations are worth noting. The tour’s price is very attractive, but additional costs for kayak rentals and environmental fees can add up, so budget accordingly. Also, if you’re prone to seasickness or have mobility issues, some parts of the tour might be less comfortable.

This experience is best suited for travelers who love nature, photography, gentle adventure, and relaxed beach lounging. It’s ideal for those wanting a balanced mix of activity and downtime in a scenic setting.

Key Points

• Affordable and comprehensive: At $25, this tour offers good value for exposure to top sights.
• Balanced itinerary: Combines kayaking, beach relaxation, and sightseeing in one 6-hour span.
• Natural beauty: Expect stunning lagoons, emerald waters, limestone cliffs, and white sands.
• Flexibility and convenience: Includes a licensed guide, boat, and lunch—making it a smooth experience.
• Additional costs: Kayak rentals, environmental fees, and optional extras can increase overall expense.
• Best suited for: travelers who enjoy gentle adventures, photography, and tranquil beaches.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at Tour D’s Highlights

Starting Point and Flexibility

The tour begins at one of two locations, either Marbers Beach Club or Marber’s—which offers a bit of flexibility. This can be helpful if you’re staying nearby or prefer a more convenient meeting point. Both options are straightforward, and your guide will likely coordinate the exact timing, so you can plan your morning accordingly.

Secret Stop: Photo and Guided Tour (40 minutes)

Your journey kicks off with a mysterious stop—probably a viewpoint or an often overlooked spot that offers a great photo opportunity. The guided aspect ensures you’ll learn a bit about the area’s geology or marine environment. This quick detour feels like a lovely way to warm up, setting the tone for the scenic adventure ahead.

Cadlao Island: Kayaking (1 hour)

Kayaking here is among the tour’s highlights. The calm waters of Cadlao Island allow for enjoyable paddling, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush scenery. This is a moment to appreciate the serenity and take some memorable photos.
Travelers have noted the opportunity to glide through crystal-clear waters, which makes for a peaceful, almost meditative experience. If you love being on the water but prefer gentle activity, this will suit you well.

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Paradise Beach and Lunch (1 hour)

Next up is a stop at Paradise Beach—an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, or just relaxing with a snack or picnic. There’s also the convenience of a provided lunch, giving you a chance to refuel amid natural beauty. The beach is described as having turquoise waters and lush surroundings, perfect for unwinding and capturing more photos.

Small Lagoon: Sightseeing and Kayaking (1 hour)

Perhaps the tour’s most iconic site, Small Lagoon offers tranquil, clear waters with limestone cliffs on all sides. Kayaking here is a highlight, and many visitors find it a calming, scenic experience. The lagoon’s serenity was praised by a reviewer as “Relaxed. Not overcrowded,” which suggests you’ll enjoy this quiet corner of El Nido without the crowds.

Bukal Island: Photo and Swimming (1 hour)

The final stop at Bukal Island is a chance to take more photos and enjoy a swim in vibrant marine waters. Known for its clear waters and marine life, it’s a fitting ending to your day. Many appreciate this segment as a relaxing way to reflect on the tour’s beauty.

Wrapping Up at Dockyard

The tour concludes back at the dockyard, where you’re free to continue exploring or head back to your accommodation. The journey ends on a peaceful note, with plenty of opportunities to discuss the highlights with your guide or fellow travelers.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides many essentials: a licensed boat, experienced captain, local guide, masks, snorkels, and life jackets. Plus, a filling lunch and a bottle of water make the day comfortable.

However, per trip reviews and detail, additional expenses include kayak rentals (PHP 300 for 2-seaters, PHP 350 for 3-seaters), optional water shoes, towels, and the mandatory environmental fee of PHP 400 per person (valid for five days). The Small Lagoon access fee of PHP 200 is a one-time charge.

It’s worth planning ahead to have cash on hand for these extras. The tour does not include hotel pickup or other meals, so you’ll want to organize transportation to the meeting points.

The Practicalities: What to Expect

This is a 6-hour tour with flexible starting times depending on your booking. It’s roughly a half-day of gentle adventure—ideal for those who want to see key sights without feeling rushed. The boat is licensed, and the guide speaks English, which helps with understanding local points of interest.

Group sizes can be private, giving you a personalized experience, or potentially shared with other travelers, depending on your booking. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, making it a low-risk option if your plans change.

Participants should wear swimwear, bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a towel, and a camera. The tour emphasizes environmental responsibility, asking travelers to avoid touching marine life or plants and to bring biodegradable sunscreen.

Authentic Traveller Perspectives

One reviewer summed up the experience as “Relaxed. Not overcrowded, good lunch, nice crew,” highlighting the calm, friendly atmosphere. Others appreciated the scenic views and peaceful stops, especially the quiet lagoons and beaches.

Travelers who love photography will find plenty of opportunities, from limestone formations to emerald waters. But it’s also suitable for families or those simply wanting a peaceful day on the water.

The Final Word: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who desire a scenic, relaxed experience that combines gentle paddling, beach lounging, and sightseeing. It’s especially suited for those who value authentic natural beauty over adrenaline rushes or strenuous activity.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, affordable way to see some of El Nido’s best spots while enjoying the company of a friendly guide, this tour offers strong value. Just be prepared for some additional costs if you want to kayak or access certain sites, and plan your day around the provided itinerary.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
The tour is best for those who are comfortable with water activities and moderate physical activity. It’s not recommended for travelers with mobility issues or those prone to seasickness.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, a lunch is provided, along with bottled water. Additional snacks or drinks are not included, so consider bringing some for extra energy.

Can I rent a kayak?
Yes, kayak rentals are available for PHP 300 for a 2-seater and PHP 350 for a 3-seater. They are optional but enhance the experience.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen (biodegradable preferred), swimwear, a towel, sunglasses, a camera, and snacks. It’s also wise to have some cash for extra expenses like kayak rental or environmental fees.

How long is the tour?
The activity lasts approximately 6 hours, with flexible start times depending on your booking.

Is transportation included?
No, hotel pickup/drop-off is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

What makes Small Lagoon special?
Its calm, clear waters surrounded by limestone cliffs make it a perfect spot for kayaking, swimming, and photography, often noted as the most tranquil part of the tour.

What about environmental considerations?
The tour encourages eco-friendly practices, asking travelers not to touch marine life or plants, and to use biodegradable sunscreen to help protect this pristine environment.

El Nido’s Tour D with Highlights Small & Cadlao Lagoon offers a thoughtfully balanced taste of the natural splendor that makes this part of the Philippines so beloved. For an affordable price, you get to explore emerald lagoons, paddle through crystal waters, unwind on white sands, and take in some of the most stunning views on the island.

This tour is especially well-suited for travelers who prioritize relaxation, scenic beauty, and gentle adventure. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family, you’ll likely leave with a camera full of memorable photos and a sense of peaceful connection to nature.

If your goal is to experience El Nido’s iconic lagoons and beaches in a relaxed, manageable way, this tour provides excellent value and a memorable day out in paradise.

You can check availability for your dates here: