Nestled in the heart of Palawan, an archipelagic province of the Philippines renowned for its pristine natural beauty and rich biodiversity, El Nido stands out as a must-visit destination for travelers from around the globe. Known for its stunning limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, El Nido offers a variety of island hopping tours – primarily labeled as Tour A, B, C, and D – each promising a unique adventure. In this travel guide for 2024, we’ll explore what makes each tour special and provide tips on how to enjoy these experiences on a budget.
## Understanding El Nido’s Island Tours
### Tour A: Lagoons and Beaches
Tour A is perhaps the most popular among all the tours in El Nido due to its iconic locations. Highlights include:
– **Small Lagoon** and **Big Lagoon**: Kayak through tranquil turquoise waters surrounded by majestic limestone formations.
– **Secret Lagoon**: Hidden behind limestone rocks, it offers a unique swimming experience.
– **Shimizu Island**: Ideal for snorkeling with vibrant coral reefs.
– **Seven Commandos Beach**: Perfect for relaxing on white sandy beaches or enjoying a game of beach volleyball.
### Tour B: Caves and Coves
Tour B offers an exploration of quieter yet equally mesmerizing spots:
– **Entalula Island**: Known for its stunning beach and snorkeling spots.
– **Snake Island**: Famous for its natural sandbar curving between two islands.
– **Cudugnon Cave**: A site of historical interest where pottery dating back to the Song Dynasty was discovered.
– **Cathedral Cave**: Accessible only by boat; known for its high ceilings resembling a cathedral.
### Tour C: Shrines and Hidden Beaches
Tour C is celebrated for remote beaches and hidden shrines:
– **Helicopter Island**: Named after its shape resembling a helicopter when viewed from a distance.
– **Hidden Beach**: Tucked away behind imposing rocks requiring some maneuvering to access.
– **Matinloc Shrine**: An abandoned shrine with breathtaking views of the open ocean.
### Tour D: Reefs and Picnic Spots
Finally, Tour D is relaxed with less crowded locations:
– **Bukal Island**: Often less crowded with exquisite snorkeling opportunities.
– **Ipil Beach**: Notable for its scenic beauty and tranquil ambiance – perfect for picnics.
– **Natnat Beach** and **Cadlao Lagoon** offer serene settings ideal for winding down your adventure.
## Budget Vlogging Tips
For those looking to document their travels through vlogs while sticking to a budget:
1. **Plan Early:** Book your flights early as prices tend to skyrocket close to peak seasons. Similarly, accommodation rates are lower when booked in advance.
2. **Optimize Travel Gear:** Invest in multipurpose gear like waterproof smartphone cases or portable multi-lens kits instead of professional cameras which can be costly.
3. **Choose Group Tours:** Group tours offer the best value-for-money. They typically cover all necessary fees like environmental taxes and rental equipment which are more expensive when rented individually.
4. **Eat Like a Local:** Try local eateries instead of tourist-heavy restaurants. This not only saves money but also gives you an authentic taste of Filipino cuisine.
5. **Be Your Own Editor:** Utilize free editing software or apps rather than purchasing professional programs; many offer comprehensive features suitable enough for vlogs.
6. **Utilize Free WiFi:** Instead of buying local SIM cards with data plans; many cafes provide free WiFi which you can use to upload content online or communicate.
## Conclusion
Whether you’re chasing lagoons in Tour A or uncovering ancient caves in Tour B; El Nido’s diverse offerings cater to every type of traveler looking to experience untouched paradises without breaking the bank. With careful planning and clever budgeting strategies outlined here coupled with your spiritof adventure—you’re set to capture the breathtaking beauty that is El Nido on camera while keeping expenses low!