Coron is the other great island-hopping base in northern Palawan, and Kayangan Lake is its best-known sight. The linked tour is the Coron Ultimate Tour, a full-day trip of seven destinations with lunch and transfer, rated 4.9 from 107 reviews from guest reviews. The Kayangan Lake stop is a hike and a swim in a clear lake framed by limestone, and the other stops usually include lagoons and reefs. The tour is 7 to 8 hours and starts from Coron town. Coron is not a day trip from El Nido, because the journey between the two is by ferry or by air. The national tourism site gives fast ferries between El Nido and Coron roughly 3.5 to 5 hours.
Plan Coron as its own stop. Fast ferries run between El Nido and Coron and take roughly 3.5 to 5 hours, and multi-day expedition boats also make the crossing, although those fall outside this guide. Flights serve Busuanga airport for those who prefer to fly, so check current schedules, and allow a night or two in Coron to make the trip worthwhile. Two Seasons Coron Bayside Hotel in this guide is a good base in Coron town.
The Ultimate Tour covers a lot of ground. Kayangan Lake involves a short climb and steps, then a swim in the lake, and other lagoons and reefs follow. Entrance fees and environmental fees vary and may not be included, so ask the operator what the ticket covers before you pay, and carry cash. Bring water shoes, a rash vest and a waterproof pouch.
Weather matters, and boat trips can be cancelled. The dry season from November to May is best, and November is a good month to start. Group tours are lively and busy, so for a quieter day consider a smaller or private boat, which many operators offer at a higher price. Remember that Coron is a separate side trip, so build it into your itinerary only if you have at least five to six days in Palawan.
What to expect
The experience
A full-day boat tour from Coron town with seven stops, including Kayangan Lake, plus lunch and transfers.
Best time
The dry season from November to May, starting with a morning departure.
How long
Seven to eight hours.
Tips
Carry cash for fees, wear water shoes and plan Coron as a two-night side trip from El Nido.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers adding a third base to their Palawan trip who want Kayangan Lake.
- Families
- Fine for older children, with a short climb at Kayangan and plenty of swimming.
- Couples
- A scenic day, with Kayangan Lake as the highlight.
- Pair with
- Pair it with a night in Coron town and a stay at Two Seasons Coron Bayside Hotel.
- Time needed
- One full day, plus travel to and from El Nido.
Good questions
Can I do Coron as a day trip from El Nido?+
No, the journey is by ferry or by air and the fast ferry takes roughly 3.5 to 5 hours each way. Plan at least one or two nights in Coron.
What does the Coron Ultimate Tour cover?+
It is a seven-destination boat tour with lunch and transfer, including Kayangan Lake. Check the inclusions for fees.
Is Kayangan Lake hard to reach?+
There is a short climb with steps to the viewpoint and then down to the water. Wear shoes with grip and bring water shoes for swimming.
When is the best time to go?+
The dry season from November to May has calmer seas. Boat trips can be cancelled in rough weather.
Are entrance fees included?+
Fees vary by operator and may be extra. Ask before booking and carry some cash.
