Siargao: Island Hopping with Lunch and Magkukuob Cavern

Traveling in the Philippines often means encounters with some of the most breathtaking scenery on earth, and Siargao’s island-hopping tour offers a top-tier introduction. Whether you’re craving crystal-clear lagoons, hidden caves, or the thrill of swimming with harmless jellyfish, this 10-hour adventure delivers authentic natural beauty paired with thoughtful touches like lunch and guided tours.

What we really appreciate about this trip is how it balances relaxation with adventure—perfect for photographers, nature lovers, or anyone wanting to escape the crowds, even if your time in Siargao is limited. The inclusion of a professional guide, entrance fees, and lunch makes it a solid value for the price. However, it’s worth noting that the tour is quite full-day, which may be tiring for some. It’s best suited for active travelers eager to explore remote islands and natural wonders.

This tour is ideal if you want a well-rounded experience of Siargao’s scenic highlights, with the convenience of organized transportation and local insights. If you’re after a relaxing beach day only, this might be too busy, but for those wanting an immersive adventure, it covers plenty of ground with rich sights and memorable moments.

Key Points

• Authentic natural beauty: Visit pristine lagoons, caves, and sandbars away from busy tourist spots.
• Unique underwater experience: Swim with non-stinging jellyfish in a calm sanctuary.
• All-inclusive convenience: Transportation, entrance fees, a guide, and lunch are covered.
• Small group size: Limited to 10 participants, offering more personalized attention.
• Full-day adventure: Approximately 10 hours packed with diverse activities.
• Ideal for active travelers: Suitable for those comfortable with boat rides and outdoor exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Siargao Island Hopping: What to Expect

This tour is a comprehensive look at what makes Siargao a sought-after tropical paradise—without the need to figure out logistics yourself. From the moment your pickup is arranged in Surigao del Norte, you’re set for a day full of natural wonders.

Starting Point and Transportation

The journey begins with a pickup from your resort or designated location in Surigao del Norte. We appreciate how the tour’s small group size—limited to just 10 people—keeps things intimate and relaxed. The transfer from the pickup point to Dapa Port, then onward by boat, reflects the Philippines’ casual but effective transportation style—think sturdy boats with friendly crew, ready to ferry you to some of the best spots around Siargao.

The Main Stops: Sohoton Cove and Beyond

Sohoton Cove is the highlight of the day. Surrounded by limestone cliffs and lush forests, it’s a peaceful spot that feels worlds away from the busy mainland. Here, you can expect clear lagoons perfect for swimming or kayaking, as well as hidden caves that add a sense of adventure. The half-submerged cave entrance offers a dramatic photo op, and exploring inside feels like uncovering a secret world.

A major draw is the Jellyfish Sanctuary, where you’ll get to swim among harmless, non-stinging jellyfish. This experience is a rare treat, and many visitors describe it as “magical.” One reviewer said, “Swimming among the jellyfish was like floating in a dream—completely peaceful and surreal.” The calm waters here are ideal for those nervous about more robust water activities.

Hagukan Cave and Magkukuob Cavern are the other key stops. Hagukan Cave, dubbed the “Skin-illuminating Cave,” is fascinating for its natural light effects—bright, glowing water that makes it a photographer’s paradise. Magkukuob Cavern, a diving cave, offers a more adventurous feel, though it requires some comfort with water and exploring tight spaces.

Additional Island Stops and Beaches

After the main caves and lagoons, the tour typically includes visits to other islands and sandbars like Bubon Beach and Marka A Island. These are quiet, unspoiled spots where you can relax, swim, snorkel, or just soak up the sun. The waters are teeming with coral reefs and colorful marine life, making snorkeling a worthwhile activity—though the tour doesn’t include snorkeling gear, so bring your own if you want to explore underwater.

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Bonus Side Trip and Lunch

Depending on timing, the tour might include a quick visit to Club Tara—a popular local destination—adding a bit of variety to the day. The meal provided is a well-reviewed inclusion, offering a break from all the activity and a chance to refuel.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently mention the stunning views and the peaceful atmosphere of the remote islands. One noted that “the beauty of the lagoons and caves left us speechless,” while another appreciated that “the boat transfers felt safe and well-organized, even in choppy waters.” The inclusion of a DOT-accredited guide ensures you’re getting informed commentary, which enhances the experience without feeling over-structured.

Practical Details and How It Adds Up

For $90 per person, this tour offers a lot of value. It covers transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and a guide, which means you won’t have to worry about the logistics or additional costs—very handy in a remote destination. The price reflects the comprehensive nature of the trip and the small-group experience.

The long duration (around 10 hours) means you’ll be immersed in nature, but it also requires a reasonable level of physical activity—expect boat rides, some climbing, and floating. We recommend bringing comfortable shoes, sun protection, a towel, and a change of clothes.

Considerations

While the tour is generally well-reviewed, it’s not suitable for everyone. Pregnant women, those with recent surgeries, or anyone prone to seasickness might want to consider their comfort level with boat rides and outdoor activities. Also, the tour is quite full-day, so if you’re after a more relaxed, beach-only experience, this may feel a bit rushed.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This island-hopping adventure is perfect for travelers eager to see Siargao’s most captivating natural features in one jam-packed day. If you enjoy exploring caves, swimming in lagoons, and discovering secluded beaches, you’ll find this tour rewarding. The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and included amenities make it a hassle-free way to experience the region’s highlights.

On the other hand, if your idea of paradise is lounging all day on a hammock, this might be too active. Similarly, if you’re traveling with very young children, the boat rides and walking involved may be more challenging. But for active, curious explorers and photographers looking for authentic, untouched scenery, this tour hits many marks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included? Yes, pickup and drop-off from your resort in Surigao del Norte are included, along with boat transfers between locations.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience runs about 10 hours, typically starting in the morning and returning in the late afternoon.

Are entrance fees included? Yes, all entrance and permit fees are covered, including boat fees and safety guides.

What should I bring? Pack comfortable shoes, sun protection, a towel, change of clothes, camera, cash, and personal medication. Biodegradable sunscreen is recommended.

Is lunch provided? Yes, the tour includes a lunch, which many reviewers find satisfying and convenient.

Can I swim with the jellyfish? Absolutely. The Jellyfish Sanctuary offers a calm, safe environment to swim among harmless jellyfish—an experience many find unforgettable.

Is this suitable for families? The tour is best for active individuals comfortable with boat rides and outdoor exploration. It’s not recommended for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Are there any age restrictions? The activity is not suitable for pregnant women, minors under 1 year, or people over 95 years old.

What about seasickness? The tour involves boat rides on open water, so if seasickness is a concern, bring necessary medication or consider other options.

The Siargao Island Hopping tour with lunch and Magkukuob Cavern offers a compelling way to see the best of what this lush region has to offer. From stunning lagoons to mysterious caves and peaceful sandbars, it’s a journey into natural beauty that delivers plenty of photo opportunities and memorable moments. Perfect for those who love a mix of adventure and serenity, this tour makes it easy to appreciate Siargao’s untouched charm—without the stress of planning every detail yourself.

If you’re ready for a full-day exploration that combines scenic wonder with a touch of thrill, this tour will leave you with stories to tell and images to cherish long after you leave. It’s a solid pick for active travelers and nature enthusiasts eager to experience the authentic side of the Philippines’ tropical paradise.

You can check availability for your dates here: