El Nido: Island Hopping Tour B Cudognong Cave & More

Travelers dreaming of turquoise waters, white sands, and secret hideaways might find themselves drawn to the popular Island Hopping Tour B from El Nido, Philippines. This six-hour excursion, offered at around $26 per person, promises not just postcard-perfect scenery but a genuine glimpse into the area’s natural and historical treasures.

While it’s a relatively affordable way to explore Bacuit Bay, it’s also a tour that balances well-organized stops with authentic experiences—making it a good fit for travelers eager for adventure, scenic beauty, and a bit of history.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it combines stunning vistas and snorkeling opportunities with stories from the past, like the hideouts of Japanese soldiers during WWII. Also, the fact that you’ll visit less crowded spots compared to other tours adds to its appeal. On the flip side, some travelers have noted that booking online may lead to additional costs for equipment rentals, so come prepared or plan to rent locally.

Overall, if you’re a traveler who appreciates small-group experiences, knowledgeable guides, and authentic scenery, this tour can be a memorable part of your El Nido adventure.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At about $26, the tour provides good value for a half-day of island-hopping and snorkeling.
• Diverse Stops: From caves to beaches, expect a mix of geological wonders and scenic islands.
• Historical Touch: Cudognong Cave offers a glimpse into WWII history—hidden Japanese soldiers’ hideout.
• Small Group Feel: Many reviews mention intimate experiences with friendly, knowledgeable guides.
• Extra Costs: Be aware of additional fees like the El Nido eco-tourism development fee and optional equipment rentals.
• Ideal for Adventure Seekers: The tour’s varied stops suit those who want a mix of activities in a short time.

If you’re considering a day of exploring Bacuit Bay, this Island Hopping Tour B from El Nido offers an excellent blend of scenic beauty, adventure, and a touch of history. We’ll walk through what you can expect from each part of the trip, how it compares to other tours, and what makes it special.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting the Day: Setting Out for Island Hopping

The tour begins with you boarding a boat at a designated meeting point. The actual start time varies based on your booking, so checking the schedule is crucial. The boat ride itself is a highlight, giving you your first taste of the breathtaking seascapes. Expect a relaxed atmosphere with a licensed guide leading the way, sharing insights about the islands and their histories along the way.

The tour duration — around 6 hours — is tight but packed, so be ready for a day of exploration. The group size tends to be small, which many reviewers appreciate, making the experience more intimate and less crowded.

Snake Island: The Sandbar Chameleon

One of the first stops is the famous Snake Island, renowned for its shifting sandbars that resemble a slithering serpent. This is a photographer’s paradise; the constantly changing shape of the sands makes every visit feel unique. Travelers have mentioned that Snake Island is “very pretty,” and it’s a favorite for a quick photo or simply relaxing on the sand.

Note: Its popularity makes it busy at peak times, but since this is Tour B, you might find it less crowded compared to other options.

Popolkan Island: Snorkeling & Marine Life

Next, we arrive at Popolkan Island, which is celebrated for its vibrant reefs and marine biodiversity. Expect clear waters perfect for snorkeling or swimming, with abundant fish and coral formations. The fact that the reefs are so accessible makes it ideal for those who want to see underwater life without diving gear. Reviewers have said they enjoyed “snorkeling in crystal blue waters,” and appreciated how this stop felt natural and un commercialized.

This stop often gets high marks for its authentic feel and rich marine life, making it a highlight for many.

Cudognong Cave: A WWII Hidden Gem

One of the more unique features of Tour B is a visit to Cudognong Cave, where Japanese soldiers hid during WWII. This spot adds a layer of historical depth to the day, giving you a sense of the area’s past struggles and resilience. The cave’s dark, cool interior contrasts sharply with the tropical surroundings, offering a brief but intriguing detour from the usual beach stops.

Some reviews mention that Rene, the guide, was especially supportive and knowledgeable, sharing stories that bring the cave’s history to life. It’s a chance to reflect on the island’s layered past amid stunning natural scenery.

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Cathedral Cave and Entalula Island: Scenic Highlights

Following the cave, the tour heads to Cathedral Cave, named for its impressive rock formations resembling a cathedral’s interior. While some mention that the interior is not accessible for exploration, the outside views and the surrounding area are worth the visit.

Later, you’ll stop at Entalula Island, famous for its powdery white beach and calm, shallow waters. Many have called it “beautiful,” and it’s an ideal spot for lazing in the sun, swimming, or just soaking up the scenery. Some reviews mention clown fish along the rocks, adding a splash of underwater color.

Returning and Practicalities

The tour wraps up after these stops, and you’ll be taken back to your starting point. Many travelers find the day well-organized, praising the friendly staff and delicious lunch — a hearty spread of meats and fish. Keep in mind, there are additional fees for the El Nido eco-tourism fee and Big Lagoon entry fee, so budget accordingly.

Important tip: You’ll need to purchase the Tourism Development Fee either at your hotel or at the transport terminal before the tour. The guide won’t let you board without it, and it’s non-refundable if you skip it.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are life vests, a knowledgeable guide, and lunch. However, extras like kayaks, fins, or aqua shoes aren’t included but can be rented locally. Many reviewers point out that online bookings sometimes don’t include equipment, and extra charges can add up, so it might be worth renting or bringing your own gear if possible.

The Experience: Authentic, Scenic, and Relaxing

From the reviews, it’s clear that most travelers find Tour B to be a delightful experience. People praise the small group size, which feels less chaotic and more personalized, and the knowledgeable guides who share interesting stories and insider tips.

One reviewer even said, “The crew was incredibly entertaining and supportive,” highlighting the importance of good staff. The uncrowded spots and beautiful scenery make this tour stand out, especially compared to more commercialized options.

Analyzing the Value

At about $26, this tour offers an attractive price point, especially considering the lunch, guide, and boat included. The additional fees — around 400 PHP for eco-tourism and 200 PHP for Big Lagoon — are typical in the region but should be factored into your total costs.

While some travelers have noted that online bookings might result in additional rental costs, you can often find better deals or rent equipment locally to avoid surprises. The price-to-value ratio is excellent for a half-day of relaxing, sightseeing, and snorkeling.

This experience suits adventurous travelers eager to see some of Bacuit Bay’s most iconic natural features without breaking the bank. It’s ideal for those who enjoy small-group settings and authentic scenery, and who are comfortable with a moderate pace.

It’s not perfect for travelers with mobility issues or those seeking luxury amenities, but for anyone wanting a genuine taste of El Nido’s natural beauty, this tour hits the mark.

This Island Hopping Tour B from El Nido balances scenic highlights with historical curiosity, all at a reasonable price. The stops are diverse enough to keep everyone engaged—whether snorkeling at vibrant reefs, walking along pristine beaches, or exploring caves with WWII stories.

The friendly guides and small group atmosphere elevate the experience, making it feel less like a commercial package and more like an authentic day on the water. If you’re after stunning vistas, memorable stories, and uncrowded spots, this tour might be just what you’re looking for.

For those willing to prepare for some extra costs (like equipment rentals or fees), the experience offers tremendous value and a chance to create some unforgettable memories in one of the Philippines’ most beautiful settings.

Do I need to book the tour in advance?
Booking ahead is recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons. You can reserve now and pay later, offering some flexibility.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, sunscreen, and cash for additional fees or rentals. A small bag for your belongings is handy.

Are there any physical limitations to join this tour?
The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments due to the nature of boat and cave activities.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 6 hours, with starting times varying depending on your booking.

What is included in the tour price?
Your fee covers the guide, boat, life vests, and lunch. Extra costs may include equipment rentals or entrance fees.

Can I snorkel at each stop?
Yes, especially at Popolkan Island, where snorkeling in the reefs is highlighted as a favorite activity.

Is the tour suitable for families or children?
While activities are generally accessible for most ages, check the specific needs of your children, especially regarding boat rides and cave visits.

Whether you’re in El Nido for a few days or just passing through, this tour offers a genuine taste of Bacuit Bay’s natural beauty and history—perfect for those seeking an authentic, well-organized adventure on a budget.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby