Panglao’s waters teem with a captivating marine life that beckons adventurous travelers. Just off its shores, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking underwater world, swimming alongside the graceful movements of green and hawksbill turtles. But the adventure doesn’t stop there – Panglao also conceals a hidden gem, the Hinagdanan Cave, where stunning rock formations and a crystal-clear underground lake promise to leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or seeking a unique cultural experience, this all-inclusive tour offers a chance to discover Bohol’s natural wonders in a truly unforgettable way.
Key Points
- Snorkeling with turtles at Balicasag Island, a vibrant reef home to green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles.
- Exploring the remarkable Hinagdanan Cave, featuring stunning rock formations and a cool, crystal-clear underground lake.
- Visiting the Virgin Island Sandbank, a peaceful environment perfect for leisurely lunch and relaxation.
- Experiencing the cultural highlights of the tour, including the Bohol Bee Farm and local arts and crafts.
- Comprehensive inclusion of English-speaking guide, transportation, equipment, and entrance fees for a hassle-free experience.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The tour, titled "Panglao: snorkeling with turtles and the secret cave," offers an all-inclusive package priced from $295.72 per group of up to 8 participants.
This 10-hour excursion includes hotel pickup, dolphin watching, and visits to Balicasag Island, Hinagdanan Cave, and Virgin Island.
Travelers can enjoy snorkeling with turtles, a scenic walk along the sandbank, and a coconut milk ice cream experience.
The tour provides an English-speaking guide, transportation, entrance fees, snorkeling equipment, and food and water.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and travelers can reserve their spot without upfront payment.
Itinerary Highlights
The itinerary highlights a diverse range of activities and experiences throughout the day.
Participants can look forward to a one-hour dolphin watching session at an additional cost.
Next, they’ll visit Balicasag Island for swimming, snorkeling, and marine life viewing, also for an extra fee.
The tour then takes them to the Hinagdanan Cave, where they can explore the rock formations and clear underground lake, again at an additional cost.
Afterward, they’ll head to the Virgin Island Sand Bar for lunch, free time, and a visit to the arts and crafts market, which is similarly priced separately.
The day concludes with a return to Alona Beach in Panglao.
Snorkeling With Turtles
During the visit to Balicasag Island, travelers can indulge in the highlight of the tour – snorkeling with turtles.
The vibrant reef surrounding the island is home to a thriving population of sea turtles, offering a unique opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Snorkelers can expect to see:
- Green sea turtles gracefully gliding through the turquoise waters.
- Hawksbill turtles foraging on the coral reef.
- Hatchlings making their way to the open sea.
- Turtles resting on the seafloor, occasionally surfacing for a breath of air.
This captivating experience provides a glimpse into the serene underwater world and creates lasting memories for all participants.
Virgin Island Sandbank
After marveling at the sea turtles, the tour takes visitors to Virgin Island’s stunning sandbank.
This natural wonder reveals itself at low tide, allowing visitors to walk along the exposed sand and spot starfish. The sandbank offers a peaceful respite from the waves, providing the perfect opportunity to enjoy a leisurely lunch and explore the nearby arts and crafts market.
Visitors can enjoy the island’s tranquil atmosphere, taking in the breathtaking views and soaking up the sun.
This stop on the tour offers a unique and unforgettable experience, perfectly complementing the other remarkable attractions showcased throughout the day.
Hinagdanan Cave Exploration
Visitors can next explore the remarkable Hinagdanan Cave, a natural wonder featuring stunning rock formations and a serene underground lake. This unique cave offers a captivating glimpse into Bohol’s geological history.
The tour includes:
- Admiring the cave’s impressive stalactites and stalagmites, formed over centuries by the slow drip of water.
- Swimming in the crystal-clear, cool underground lake, a refreshing respite from the tropical heat.
- Snapping photos of the cave’s natural beauty, capturing the essence of this hidden gem.
- Learning about the cave’s fascinating legends and cultural significance from the knowledgeable guide.
The Hinagdanan Cave exploration is a must-see highlight of the Panglao island adventure, offering a true sense of discovery and connection with the natural world.
Bohol Bee Farm Experience
Departing the tranquil Hinagdanan Cave, the tour continues to the Bohol Bee Farm, a renowned eco-tourism destination.
Guests will have the opportunity to learn about the farm’s sustainable practices and participate in an interactive experience. They’ll get to make and taste the farm’s signature coconut milk ice cream, a refreshing treat on a warm day.
The Bohol Bee Farm showcases the region’s agricultural heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into the local honey and handicraft production.
This stop on the tour provides a unique cultural exchange, allowing travelers to connect with the Bohol community and appreciate the area’s natural wonders.
Inclusions and Equipment
The tour includes an English-speaking guide throughout the itinerary, as well as individual transfers by comfortable air-conditioned minivan (or alternative transport based on group size).
Entrance tickets to Balicasag Island, Virgin Island, and Hinagdanan Cave are included.
Snorkeling equipment like fins, masks, and snorkels are available for rental.
Food and drinking water are provided during the excursion.
Guests can also opt to rent a GoPro camera to capture photos and videos during the activities.
- Snorkeling equipment rental
- Entrance tickets to key sites
- Comfortable transportation
- Food and drinking water
Important Recommendations
It isn’t suitable for children under 5 years to participate in this tour.
The tour involves activities like snorkeling, exploring caves, and navigating over sand bars, which may be too challenging for young children.
Guests should bring essential items such as sunglasses, a change of clothes, towels, cameras, sunscreen, beachwear, cash, charged smartphones, and waterproof bags.
Alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed during the tour.
Tour adjustments may occur due to weather or unforeseen circumstances, and cancellations may not be refunded.
Travelers are advised to have travel insurance in case of any unexpected events.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?
This tour is not suitable for children under 5 years of age. The minimum age requirement is 5 years old, as stated in the important information and recommendations section of the tour overview.
Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group?
Yes, this tour can be booked for a private group. The tour price is from $295.72 per group, which covers up to 8 participants. Guests have the option to reserve the tour without an upfront payment.
Are Food and Drinks Included in the Tour Price?
Yes, the tour price includes food and drinking water during the day. The tour description states that "Food and drinking water provided" is one of the inclusions of the tour.
Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?
Yes, you can bring your own snorkeling equipment. The tour provides snorkeling gear for rental, but if you prefer to use your own, you’re welcome to do so. This allows you to use equipment you’re already comfortable with.
Is There Any Flexibility in the Tour Itinerary?
According to the tour information, there is some flexibility in the itinerary. Tour adjustments may occur due to weather or unforeseen circumstances, though cancellations may not always be refunded.
Recap
Panglao’s "Snorkeling With Turtles and the Secret Cave" offers an unforgettable adventure. Participants can enjoy the vibrant underwater world, swim alongside majestic turtles, and explore the captivating Hinagdanan Cave. This all-inclusive tour combines the thrill of wildlife interaction and natural beauty, creating lasting memories in Bohol’s serene landscapes.