From Boracay: Mainland Off-Road ATV and Zipline Experience

Travelers looking for a dose of adventure outside the usual beach scene might find this Mainland Off-Road ATV and Zipline Experience an intriguing option. Departing from the famed sands of Boracay, this tour offers a quick escape to the more rustic and lush surroundings of Catanduanes Province. We haven’t tried it ourselves, but based on the details and feedback, it promises a fun-packed two hours of adrenaline, scenic views, and a taste of local outdoor life.

What we like about this experience are the sense of thrill that comes with the off-road riding and the opportunity to swim or kayak in a riverside setting, which adds a relaxing break to the adrenaline rush. The zipline over 300 meters is also a highlight for those craving a high-altitude view. That said, some reviews mention that the ATV portion can be shorter or less intense than expected, which is worth considering if you’re after serious riding.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities, are comfortable with basic safety instructions, and want a mix of adventure and scenic relaxation—all at a reasonable price. It’s not for travelers seeking a full-day tour or luxury experiences but rather for those wanting a quick, active interlude with friends or family.

Key Points

• Accessible adventure: Perfect for a quick outdoor escape from Boracay.
• Includes multiple activities: ATV riding, ziplining, river swimming, and kawa hot bath.
• Guided safety: A brief safety crash course is included.
• Group size: Transfers are shared, with a small fee during low tide.
• Authentic experience: Guides are friendly and speak English.
• Mixed reviews: Some find the ATV and other activities less impressive than expected, so manage expectations accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Look at the Experience

How to Get There and What It Costs

The adventure begins with a speedboat transfer from Boracay to the mainland of Catanduanes. The departure point is the beachfront of Yellow Cab Boracay, Station 1—convenient if you’re staying nearby. The boat ride, which takes around 30 minutes, offers a quick change of scenery and an exciting start, especially if you enjoy boat trips. During low tides, there’s a Php200 fee for pickups and drop-offs at Cagban port, split among groups of up to 8. During high tides, this fee is waived, making the transfer smoother.

The overall cost is $45 per person, which covers the boat transfer, the activities, and the guide. Considering the inclusion of a 30-minute ATV ride or 550-meter zipline, river access for swimming or kayaking, and the kawa hot bath, this price offers decent value. Just remember, food and drinks aren’t included, so plan to bring snacks or have a meal afterward.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour runs for approximately two hours, with exact start times varying depending on availability and weather conditions. After meeting at the beachfront, you’ll hop on a speedboat for the 30-minute ride to the mainland, which is quite an adventure in itself.

Once on land, a friendly guide will brief you on safety—crucial for the ATV and zipline segments. The off-road ATV ride takes you along muddy trails and rough terrain, giving a genuine sense of adventure over uneven ground. Many travelers find this segment shorter or less intense than anticipated; some reviews highlight that the ATV experience involves just circling around rather than a long trek. Still, the thrill of driving through natural scenery makes up for it.

The zipline, stretching 300 meters, is a quick but exciting ride. It offers upward views of the river and surrounding landscape, perfect for those wanting a brief adrenaline fix and some Instagram-worthy photos. If you’re feeling energetic and in the mood, you can try both the ATV and zipline, as the tour sometimes offers flexibility.

After the activity portion, you’ll have free access to the Nabaoy River for swimming and kayaking. The river’s calm waters and scenic backdrop make it an ideal spot to relax and cool off after the adrenaline rush. Many travelers appreciate the opportunity to float and paddle in a natural setting, which adds a peaceful element to the day.

The Kawa Hot Bath and Photo Opportunity

The tour wraps up with a kawa hot bath, a traditional Filipino clay and bamboo tub heated by firewood. It’s a relaxing way to wind down and provides excellent photo opportunities—especially if you enjoy capturing unique travel moments. However, some reviews suggest that this part can feel a bit staged or quaint, possibly a bit less polished than modern spa experiences.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

If you’re an adventure seeker eager to explore beyond Boracay’s beaches, you’ll likely find this tour engaging. The guides are praised for their friendliness and professionalism, which enhances the experience. It’s suitable for active travelers comfortable with basic instructions and eager for a quick outdoor escapade.

However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with heart problems or high blood pressure, or travelers over 70, given the physical nature of activities. Also, keep in mind the mixed reviews regarding the ATV ride’s length and intensity—if you’re expecting a full hour of intense riding, you may feel a bit disappointed.

The Realities: Balancing Expectations and Experience

While some travelers have raved about the “great adventure” and “really great staff”, others have expressed frustration about the short riding time and waiting periods. One review mentions waiting two hours after the activity for transport back to Boracay, which can be a long, hot wait if not prepared.

In terms of value, the tour’s affordability and inclusion of multiple activities make it worthwhile for those wanting a sampling of mainland adventure, especially if you’re staying in Boracay and craving something different. Just stay aware that some portions may feel rushed or less impressive, so approach it with flexible expectations.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This Mainland Off-Road ATV and Zipline Experience offers a quick hit of adventure combined with scenic river fun, all at a reasonable price. It’s particularly appealing if you’re interested in a half-day escape from Boracay’s beaches to see a more rural side of the Philippines. The guides’ friendliness and safety focus are definite plus points that add confidence and enjoyment to the activities.

On the other hand, if you’re an experienced ATV rider or seeking a longer, more intense adventure, you might find the ride somewhat underwhelming. Also, keep in mind the potential for waiting around, especially during busy times or low tides, which could eat into your overall experience.

Overall, for adventurous travelers on a budget who want a taste of outdoor fun and river relaxation, this tour hits the right notes. For those after a more extensive or luxurious adventure, it might be best to look elsewhere or manage your expectations.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or teenagers?
Yes, but children must be comfortable with safety instructions and basic riding. The tour is designed for those able to handle simple off-road riding and ziplining, usually over age 12.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or have a meal afterward.

How long is the ATV ride?
The tour includes about 30 minutes of ATV riding, though some reviews suggest it may feel shorter or less intense than expected.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activity, closed-toe shoes, and possibly a rain jacket if rain is forecasted. Bring a towel and swimwear for river activities.

Is the tour physically demanding?
It’s moderate—mainly riding an ATV and walking to the zipline. Not suitable for those with serious health issues or mobility concerns.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The schedule might change due to weather, affecting availability. Always check with the provider before your trip.

Can I do both the ATV and zipline?
Yes, the tour offers both activities, and you can sometimes choose to do one or both depending on your energy and interest.

How long does the entire experience last?
About two hours, including transfers, activities, and river time.

Is there a minimum group size?
The tour is shared, and the transfer fee during low tide is for groups up to 8. The exact minimum isn’t specified but plan for small groups.

To sum it up, this tour balances adventure with relaxation at a fair price. It’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting a quick outdoor escape from Boracay, especially if they appreciate friendly guides and scenic river settings. Just keep in mind that some activities might be shorter or less vigorous than you’d hope, and be prepared for some waiting time during busy periods. If you go in with realistic expectations and a sense of adventure, you’re likely to enjoy this lively and varied day out.

You can check availability for your dates here: