FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is it safe to visit the Philippines?

Yes. The Philippine Government takes safety very seriously and takes all of the necessary steps to ensure the safety of travelers. Specific to El Nido, the Philippine Government, Malampaya Gas as well as the local population and tour operators makes safety a very serious priority and we make every necessary arrangement to ensure the safety of our guests. El Nido Resorts has several security guards that patrol the area by boat and the Philippine National Army permanently stations two PT-class patrol boats to El Nido, where it patrols Bacuit Bay on a daily basis. In 2006, one of the local cellular phone providers erected a tower on Bolabod Mountains that services the entire area of Bacuit Bay. Thus, we have un-obstructed access to authorities in El Nido while paddling and camping in Bacuit Bay. Bacuit Bay is fairly protected and even during a storm, the ability to travel to and from El Nido is possible. Both resorts (Ten Knot Charters) on Lagen and Miniloc operate year round and will provide assistance if needed

Are there any health concerns on Palawan?

Malaria can be present on the island; however, it is usually confined to the far-flung and mountainous regions of the island. There has not been a recorded case of Malaria in El Nido. There are a variety of preventative medicines available by prescription and it is recommended if you feel even slightly concerned to ask your doctor. Hepatitis C shots are not necessary, but recommended (as this is true for anyone travelling from one country to another).

Hospital facilities are located in El Nido, Puerto Princessa and daily charter flights between Manila and El Nido are available if medical attention in Manila is required.

What type of safety equipment do Asia Kayak Tours bring on expedition?

We carry three complete first aid kits; one for the boat, one at the campsite, and one that remains with the guide. We all carry cellular phones which have complete coverage anywhere in Bacuit Bay and networked VHF radios. Each guest is provided with a Coast Guard approved paddling life vest and our boat has CG approved vests as well. Our boat remains with us during our paddling and camping for immediate access to transportation should the need arise. Lee and the boat captains are certified in First Aid and CPR, and Lee is also trained (as part of his SCUBA Instructor certification) for in-water emergency response and rescue.

What should I bring?

You should bring clothing appropriate for outdoor activities / kayaking in tropical environments. This includes cottons or synthetics and bathing wear. Sunglasses, hats, and a rain jacket are highly recommended. At night, although the temperature remains above 27º C, having a lightweight fleece and long pants are recommended. We provide sun-screen and inspect repellant, however, we encourage you to bring along a brand of sun screen or insect repellant that you are most comfortable with. We also provide soap and towels for showering and towels for use on the beach or when kayaking. Personal snorkeling equipment is not provided but can be arranged if requested.

What is the weather like?

Hot weather and limited amounts of rainfall prevails from March to May while the coolest months (with also relatively little rainfall) are from December to February. Heavy rainfall is experienced in July though October accompanied by the southwest monsoon. Palawan is generally typhoon-free and protected from wind most of the year.

When is the best time to visit?

The dry months between November and June are the best times weather-wise. Of course, visitors to the area are generally the highest during the dry season. Peak periods are in December and March - May. June can be a transitional month for the weather but is generally a good time to visit as there tend to be more sun than rain and the number of tourists is usually lower.

Can you help with all of our travel arrangement within the Philippines?

Yes. If you’d like we can not only make all of the necessary travel arrangements to and from El Nido, but we work closely with several hotels in Manila and Blue Horizon Travel so we can also arrange your hotel and transfers to and from the International airport as well.

We also can arrange for activities, transportation and accommodations to many destinations throughout the Philippine archipelago. Please visit our Other Tours & Services for more information.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Copyright © 2008 : S.E.Asia Kayak Tours | All rights reserved. © by: G. Deichmann