How you can Get to El Nido: A Full Journey Information

How To Get To El Nido: A Clear Guide To Reaching This Paradise Destination

El Nido, located in Palawan, Philippines, is a tropical paradise known for its stunning beaches, limestone cliffs, and crystal-clear waters. While El Nido’s remote location might seem daunting, several transportation options are available to get there. In this article, we will explore the various ways to get to El Nido, giving you all the information you need to plan your trip.

Direct flight is the easiest and fastest way to get to El Nido. However, this option can be pretty expensive. Another way to reach El Nido is by taking a van from Puerto Princesa, a popular option among travelers. The van ride takes 5-6 hours and offers stunning countryside views. Additionally, bus services from Puerto Princesa take around 6-8 hours to reach El Nido. Another option is to take a ferry from Coron, which takes around 5-6 hours. In this article, we will discuss each option in detail, so you can choose the best one for your needs.

Getting to El Nido from Manila

El Nido is a popular tourist destination located in the Philippines’ northernmost tip of Palawan Island. It is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and limestone cliffs. While El Nido is remote, it is still accessible to tourists. The most common way to get to El Nido is by air, but land and sea travel are also options.

By Air

The easiest and most convenient way to reach El Nido from Manila is by air. Direct flights are available from Manila to El Nido via Air Swift, a boutique airline that offers daily flights. The flights take about 1 hour and 20 minutes and land at Lio Airport, a 20-minute tricycle ride from El Nido Town. Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia also offer flights from Manila to Puerto Princesa, the capital city of Palawan. You can take a van or bus transfer from Puerto Princesa to El Nido, which takes around 5-6 hours.

Sea Travel

Another option to reach El Nido from Manila is by sea. You can take a ferry from Manila to Coron, which takes around 16 hours. From Coron, you can take another ferry transfer to El Nido. However, this option is not recommended for those who get seasick quickly or prefer a faster mode of transportation.

Overall, the best way to get to El Nido from Manila depends on your budget, travel preferences, and time constraints. By air is the most convenient option, while land travel is cheaper but takes longer. Sea travel is a scenic option but takes the longest time.

Getting to El Nido from Puerto Princesa

El Nido is a popular destination in Palawan, and getting there from Puerto Princesa is relatively easy. Travelers can choose from several modes of transportation, including vans, buses, and private transfers.

The most common way to get to El Nido from Puerto Princesa is by van. Vans depart from Puerto Princesa International Airport or San Jose Terminal, and travel time is around 5-6 hours. The fare is approximately PHP 600-700 per person. Some van companies offering this service include Lexxus Shuttle, Eulen Joy, and Fort Wally Shuttle.

Another option is to take a bus, which is cheaper than a van but takes longer. Cherry Bus and RORO Bus are two bus companies that provide transportation from Puerto Princesa to El Nido. The bus fare is around PHP 380-480 per person, and travel time is about 6-8 hours. Buses depart from San Jose Terminal in Puerto Princesa.

Private transfers are available for those who prefer a more comfortable and convenient ride. Private transfers can be arranged through travel agencies or hotels in Puerto Princesa. The cost of private transfers varies depending on the type of vehicle and the number of passengers.

Travelers should note that road conditions in Palawan can be challenging, especially during the rainy season. It is advisable to book transportation in advance and to check the weather forecast before traveling.

In summary, there are several ways to get to El Nido from Puerto Princesa, including vans, buses, and private transfers. Vans are the most common and convenient option, while buses are cheaper but take longer. Private transfers offer a more comfortable and customizable ride.

Getting to El Nido from Cebu

El Nido is a popular tourist destination in Palawan, Philippines, known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and limestone cliffs. If you are in Cebu and want to travel to El Nido, several transportation options are available.

Flight

The fastest and most convenient way to get to El Nido from Cebu is by taking a flight. Airswift offers direct flights from Cebu to El Nido. The flight takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes and lands at Lio Airport, which is located 4.5 kilometers away from El Nido town proper.

Combination of Flight and Ferry

For those who prefer to travel by both air and sea, there is an option to take a combination of flight and ferry. One can take a flight from Cebu to Puerto Princesa, then take a van or bus transfer to El Nido, or take a ferry from Puerto Princesa to El Nido. The total travel time can take anywhere from 5 to 10 hours, depending on the mode of transportation chosen.

Getting to El Nido from Cebu is relatively easy, with several transportation options available. Whether you prefer to travel by air, sea, or a combination of both, there is a way to get to El Nido that will suit your needs and budget.

Getting to El Nido from Coron

El Nido is a popular tourist destination in Palawan, Philippines, and it is often visited by those traveling from Coron. There are several options to choose from when traveling from Coron to El Nido, including boats and ferries.

One of the most popular ways to get from Coron to El Nido is by taking a ferry. Montenegro Fastcraft and Atienza Shipping Lines are two of the most popular companies that offer ferry services between the two destinations. The ferry ride takes approximately 5 hours and can cost between PHP 2,800 to PHP 3,500 per person, depending on the company and the type of ferry.

It is important to note that the ferry schedules can vary depending on the season and weather conditions, so checking the schedules in advance and booking the tickets early to secure a seat is recommended.

Another option to consider is taking a private boat or chartering a boat. This option is more expensive than taking a ferry but allows for more flexibility and privacy. The cost of a private boat can vary depending on the size of the boat and the number of passengers.

Transportation within El Nido

El Nido is a small town, and most of its attractions are within walking distance. However, several transportation options are available for visitors who want to explore the surrounding areas.

Tricycles

Tricycles are a common mode of transportation in El Nido. They are small, three-wheeled vehicles that can seat up to three passengers. Tricycles are ideal for short trips around town or for getting to nearby attractions. The fare for a tricycle ride is negotiable but usually ranges from PHP 50 to PHP 150 per ride.

Motorcycles and Motorbikes

Motorcycles and motorbikes are also available for rent in El Nido. They are a great way to explore the surrounding areas quickly. Motorcycles and motorbikes can be rented for around PHP 500 to PHP 1000 per day, depending on the type of bike and the duration of the rental.

Shuttle Vans

Shuttle vans are convenient for travel between El Nido and nearby towns. They are air-conditioned and can seat up to 12 passengers. Shuttle van services are available from El Nido to Puerto Princesa, Sabang, and Port Barton. The fare for a shuttle van ride varies depending on the destination, but it usually ranges from PHP 600 to PHP 1200 per person.

Car Rental

Car rental services are available in El Nido for visitors who want to explore the surrounding areas independently. Cars can be rented for around PHP 2000 to PHP 3000 per day, depending on the type of car and the rental duration. Visitors should note that driving in El Nido can be challenging due to narrow and winding roads, so it is recommended to rent a car only if you are an experienced driver.

Lexus Shuttle

Lexus shuttle services are available in El Nido for visitors who want to travel in style. The Lexus shuttle is a luxurious van that can seat up to six passengers. It is air-conditioned and comes with a personal driver. The fare for a Lexus shuttle ride is higher than other transportation options, but it provides a comfortable and convenient way to travel around El Nido and nearby towns.

El Nido’s Lio Airport

El Nido’s Lio Airport (ENI) is a small, privately-owned airport located on the beachfront, about 5 km from El Nido Town, on the Taytay-El Nido National Highway. It is the main airport serving El Nido and is operated by AirSWIFT, a domestic airline that offers direct flights to and from Manila, Cebu, and Caticlan.

AirSWIFT is the easiest and fastest way to get to El Nido but is also the most expensive option. The airline offers daily flights to El Nido from Manila, Cebu, and Caticlan. The flight from Manila to El Nido takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, while the flight from Cebu to El Nido takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes.

Passengers flying with AirSWIFT can enjoy a comfortable and hassle-free travel experience. The airline provides complimentary snacks and drinks on board and a free baggage allowance of up to 10 kg for checked baggage and 5 kg for hand-carry luggage.

For travelers who are coming from other parts of the Philippines or from abroad, the most practical way to get to El Nido is to take a flight to either Manila or Cebu and then take a connecting flight with AirSWIFT to El Nido.

It is important to note that El Nido’s Lio Airport is not served internationally, so travelers from other countries must fly to Manila or Cebu first before connecting to El Nido.

Accommodations in El Nido

El Nido has a variety of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. From budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the top options to consider:

Resorts

El Nido is home to several high-end resorts that offer luxurious amenities and breathtaking views. Some of the most popular resorts include:

• Miniloc Island Resort – [check rates and availability] Located on a private island, this resort offers cozy cottages and villas surrounded by crystal-clear waters and limestone cliffs.
• Lagen Island Resort – [check rates and availability] This eco-sanctuary resort is nestled between a lush forest and a calm lagoon. It offers spacious rooms and suites with private balconies and stunning views.
• Pangulasian Island Resort – [check rates and availability] This resort is located on a private island with a pristine white-sand beach. It offers luxurious villas with private pools and stunning ocean views.

Hotels

El Nido also has a range of hotels that cater to different budgets and preferences. Some of the top options include:

• El Nido Beach Hotel – [check rates and availability] This beachfront hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities and stunning sea views.
• Cuna Hotel – [check rates and availability] Located in the heart of El Nido town, this hotel offers stylish rooms and suites with a rooftop pool and bar.
• Sea Cocoon Hotel – [check rates and availability] This boutique hotel offers cozy rooms and suites with a rooftop deck and pool overlooking the town and bay.

Hostels and Guesthouses in El Nido

El Nido has plenty of affordable accommodations for budget-conscious travelers, including hostels and guesthouses. Here are some of the top options:

• Outpost Beach Hostel – [check rates and availability] This beachfront hostel offers dorm and private rooms with basic amenities and a lively social atmosphere.
• Mad Monkey Hostel – [check rates and availability] Located in the heart of El Nido town, this hostel offers dorm and private rooms with a bar and restaurant on-site.
• El Gordo’s Adventures and Guesthouse – [check rates and availability] This budget-friendly guesthouse offers private rooms with shared bathrooms and a communal kitchen.

No matter what type of accommodation you choose, be sure to book in advance during peak season (December to May) as rooms fill up quickly.

Exploring El Nido

El Nido is a tropical paradise with many activities and tourist spots. From island hopping tours to relaxing on stunning beaches, there is something for everyone.

One of the most popular activities in El Nido is island hopping. Visitors can take tours exploring the Bacuit Archipelago, home to several beautiful islands and beaches. Some must-visit islands include Seven Commandos Beach, Secret Beach, and Small Lagoon. Visitors can also explore the Big Lagoon, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and clear blue waters.

Nacpan Beach is another popular destination in El Nido. This beautiful beach is known for its pristine white sand and crystal clear waters. Visitors can relax on the beach, swim in the ocean, or enjoy a variety of water sports, such as kayaking and paddleboarding.

Las Cabanas is another famous beach in El Nido. This beach offers stunning sunset views and is a great place to relax and unwind. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of activities, such as ziplining and cliff jumping.

For those who want to explore more of Palawan Island, several day trips are available from El Nido. Visitors can take a tour of the Puerto Princesa Underground River, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This river flows through a cave system that is home to a variety of unique flora and fauna.

Overall, El Nido offers many activities and tourist spots for visitors to explore. Whether you want to relax on the beach or explore the stunning Bacuit Bay, there is something for everyone in this tropical paradise.

Activities in El Nido

El Nido is not just about the beautiful beaches and islands. There are plenty of activities for those seeking adventure and exploration. Here are some of the top things to do in El Nido:

Island Hopping

Island hopping is the most popular activity in El Nido. You can choose from four island hopping tours, each with its own set of destinations. Tour A takes you to the Big and Small Lagoons, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and Seven Commandos Beach. Tour B includes Snake Island, Cudugnon Cave, Cathedral Cave, Pinagbuyutan Island, and Entalula Beach. Tour C takes you to Matinloc Island, Secret Beach, Helicopter Island, and Hidden Beach. Tour D includes Cadlao Lagoon, Pasandigan Beach, Natnat Beach, Bukal Island, and Paradise Beach.

Hiking

El Nido has several hiking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints. One of the most popular hikes is the Taraw Cliff hike, which offers a panoramic view of the town and the surrounding islands. The hike is challenging, but the view is worth it. Another popular hike is the Nacpan Beach hike, which takes you to a secluded beach with crystal-clear waters.

Kayaking

Kayaking is a great way to explore the lagoons and beaches of El Nido. You can rent a kayak and explore the Big and Small Lagoons, Secret Lagoon, and other destinations. Kayaking is also a great way to exercise and enjoy the scenery.

Diving

El Nido is known for its rich marine life; diving is a great way to explore it. Several dive shops in El Nido offer diving courses and tours. Some popular dive sites include Dilumacad Island, South Miniloc, and Entalula Island.

Full Moon Party

El Nido has a full moon party every month if you’re looking for a party. The party is held on the beach and features music, drinks, and dancing. It’s a great way to meet other travelers and have some fun.

Wildlife

El Nido is home to several wildlife species, including the Palawan hornbill and the Philippine mouse deer. You can go on a wildlife tour and see these animals in their natural habitat. The tour also includes a visit to the Nagkalit-Kalit Falls, a great place to cool off after the tour.

Budgeting for El Nido

El Nido is a popular tourist destination in the Philippines that offers a variety of activities and attractions for travelers of all budgets. To make the most of your trip to El Nido, planning and budgeting is important. Here are some tips to help you budget for your El Nido trip:

Accommodation

El Nido has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury resorts. The cost of accommodation varies depending on the accommodation type and location. Budget travelers can find hostels and homestays for as low as PHP 200 per night, while mid-range hotels and resorts can cost between PHP 1,500 to PHP 3,000 per night. Luxury resorts can cost upwards of PHP 10,000 per night.

Food

Food in El Nido is reasonably priced, and plenty of options exist. Budget travelers can find street food and local eateries for as low as PHP 50 per meal, while mid-range restaurants can cost between PHP 200 to PHP 500 per meal. Fine dining restaurants can cost upwards of PHP 1,000 per meal.

Transportation

The most popular way to get to El Nido is by taking a plane to Puerto Princesa International Airport and then taking a van to El Nido. The travel time is around 3-4 hours, and the one-way fare is around PHP 350. Alternatively, travelers can take a bus from Puerto Princesa to El Nido, which costs around PHP 500 per person.

Activities

El Nido is known for its stunning beaches and islands, and there are plenty of activities to do, such as island hopping, snorkeling, and scuba diving. The cost of activities varies depending on the type of activity and the tour operator. Budget travelers can find island hopping tours for as low as PHP 1,000 per person, while mid-range tours can cost between PHP 1,500 to PHP 2,500 per person. Private tours and luxury activities can cost upwards of PHP 5,000 per person.

Overall Budget

Based on the above estimates, a budget traveler can expect to spend around PHP 2,000 to PHP 3,000 per day in El Nido. Mid-range travelers can expect to spend between PHP 3,000 to PHP 5,000 per day, while luxury travelers can expect to spend upwards of PHP 10,000 per day. It’s important to note that these estimates do not include airfare, travel insurance, and other miscellaneous expenses.

El Nido Weather

The weather in El Nido is generally warm and humid throughout the year. The average temperature ranges from 25°C to 32°C, with the hottest months being April and May. The rainy season in El Nido usually starts in June and lasts until November, with occasional typhoons occurring in the area.

Travelers visiting El Nido during the dry season from December to May can expect sunny and warm weather, perfect for island hopping and beach activities. However, it is still important to bring sunscreen and stay hydrated as the sun can be intense.

During the rainy season, El Nido experiences occasional heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. It is advisable to check the weather forecast before planning any outdoor activities. Despite the rain, the lush greenery and waterfalls in the area are at their most vibrant during this season.

The table below provides an overview of the average monthly temperature and rainfall in El Nido:

El Nido has a tropical climate perfect for beach and island activities. Travelers should prepare for warm and humid weather throughout the year and check the weather forecast during the rainy season.

Other Nearby Destinations

El Nido is an excellent starting point to explore the surrounding attractions. Here are some of the nearby destinations that you can visit:

Taytay

Taytay is a small town located north of El Nido. It is known for its historic Fort Santa Isabel and the beautiful Taytay Bay. You can take a van or bus to get to Taytay from El Nido. The travel time is around 1-2 hours, and the fare is around PHP 150-200.

Port Barton

Port Barton is a laid-back fishing village located south of El Nido. It is known for its stunning beaches and coral reefs. You can take a van or bus to get to Port Barton from El Nido. The travel time is around 3-4 hours, and the fare is around PHP 250-350.

San Vicente

San Vicente is a municipality located north of El Nido. It is known for its long stretch of white sand beach called Long Beach or San Vicente Beach. You can take a van or bus to get to San Vicente from El Nido. The travel time is around 2-3 hours, and the fare is around PHP 150-200.

Roxas

Roxas is a small town located south of El Nido. It is known for its seafood and beautiful beaches. You can take a van or bus to get to Roxas from El Nido. The travel time is around 2-3 hours, and the fare is around PHP 150-200.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to travel to El Nido from Manila?

The easiest and fastest way to get to El Nido from Manila is by taking a direct flight with AirSWIFT. However, the El Nido airport (ENI) is not served internationally, so travelers will first need to fly to Manila or Cebu and then take a connecting flight to El Nido.

What airport should I fly into to get to El Nido?

The closest airport to El Nido is the El Nido Airport (ENI), which is located about 4 kilometers from the town center. However, this airport is not served internationally, so travelers will need to fly into either Manila or Cebu and then take a connecting flight to El Nido.

How do I get from Manila to El Nido?

Travelers can get from Manila to El Nido by taking a direct flight with AirSWIFT or a flight to Puerto Princesa and then take a van or bus transfer to El Nido. Alternatively, travelers can take a ferry from Coron to El Nido.

What are the transportation options from El Nido airport to the town center?

Travelers can take a tricycle or a taxi from the El Nido airport to the town center. A tricycle ride costs around PHP 50-100 while a taxi ride costs around PHP 300-500.

Are there direct flights from Manila to El Nido?

Yes, there are direct flights from Manila to El Nido with AirSWIFT. However, these flights can be expensive, so travelers may want to consider taking a flight to Puerto Princesa and then taking a van or bus transfer to El Nido.

How long does it take to travel from Coron to El Nido?

Traveling from Coron to El Nido takes around 4-5 hours by ferry. Travelers can take a ferry from the Coron Port to the El Nido Port, usually costing around PHP 1,760-1,960.

El Nido Travel and Tour Packages

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