El Nido Complete Travel Guide with Estimated Costs
El Nido, located on the northern tip of Palawan Island in the Philippines, is renowned for its stunning limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life.
As a gateway to the Bacuit archipelago, it offers travelers a paradise of hidden lagoons, white-sand beaches, and diverse underwater ecosystems.
Where is El Nido?
El Nido is situated at the northernmost tip of Palawan Island, approximately 420 kilometers southwest of Manila. It serves as the primary base for exploring the Bacuit archipelago, known for its dramatic karst landscapes and rich biodiversity.
How to Get to El Nido
Travelers have multiple options to reach El Nido, depending on their starting point, budget, and time constraints.
From Manila to El Nido
1. Direct Flights
The most convenient way to reach El Nido from Manila is by taking a direct flight. Airlines such as AirSWIFT operate flights from Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to El Nido’s Lio Airport. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.
- Estimated Cost: ₱6,000 – ₱16,000 ($110 – $290) round-trip
2. Flights via Puerto Princesa
Alternatively, travelers can fly from Manila to Puerto Princesa International Airport, with several airlines offering daily flights. From Puerto Princesa, El Nido is accessible by land.
- Flight Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes
- Estimated Cost: ₱2,000 – ₱4,000 ($36 – $73) one-way
3. Ferry Services
For those seeking a sea voyage, ferry services are available, though less commonly chosen due to longer travel times. Ferries from Manila to El Nido, often via Coron, can take approximately 16 to 22 hours.
- Estimated Cost: ₱4,000 – ₱4,600 ($73 – $84)
From Puerto Princesa to El Nido
Upon arriving in Puerto Princesa, travelers can choose from several land transportation options to reach El Nido.
1. Van Transfers
Shared van services are a popular choice, offering multiple daily departures.
- Travel Time: Approximately 5 to 6 hours
- Estimated Cost: ₱500 – ₱700 ($9 – $13) per person
2. Bus Services
Buses, such as the Cherry Bus, provide regular trips between Puerto Princesa and El Nido.
- Travel Time: 6 to 8 hours
- Estimated Cost: ₱380 – ₱480 ($7 – $9) per person
3. Private Vans
For a more personalized experience, private van charters are available.
- Estimated Cost: ₱5,000 – ₱6,000 ($91 – $110) per vehicle
4. Travel Cost
| Expense | Cost (PHP) | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Van (Puerto Princesa-El Nido) | ₱500-₱700 | $10-$14 |
| Bus (Puerto Princesa-El Nido) | ₱380-₱480 | $8-$10 |
| Direct Flight (Manila-El Nido) | ₱2,000-₱4,000 | $40-$80 |
| Ferry (El Nido-Coron) | ₱4,000-₱4,600 | $73-$84 |
| Daily Budget (Mid-Range) | ₱2,704 | $47 |
El Nido Airport
El Nido’s Lio Airport is a small, privately-owned airport primarily serving flights from Manila. Located about 4 kilometers from El Nido town proper, it offers basic facilities. Tricycle services are readily available at the airport to transport passengers to their accommodations.
How to Get from El Nido to Coron
Travelers wishing to visit Coron from El Nido have the following options:
1. Ferry Services
Several ferry operators provide daily trips between El Nido and Coron.
- Travel Time: Approximately 3.5 to 4 hours
- Estimated Cost: ₱1,760 – ₱1,800 ($32 – $33) one-way
2. Flights
Charter flights are available between El Nido and Coron (Busuanga Airport), though they are less frequent and more expensive.
- Estimated Cost: ₱6,000 – ₱10,000 ($110 – $180) one-way
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How far is Puerto Princesa to El Nido?
A: The distance between Puerto Princesa and El Nido is approximately 230 kilometers by road.
Q2: What is the best time to visit El Nido?
A: The ideal time to visit El Nido is during the dry season, from November to May, when the weather is favorable for outdoor activities.
Q3: Are there ATMs in El Nido?
A: Yes, there are a few ATMs in El Nido town, but it’s advisable to carry sufficient cash, as machines can be unreliable.
Q4: Do I need a visa to visit the Philippines?
A: Citizens of many countries can enter the Philippines visa-free for stays of up to 30 days. It’s recommended to check
Planning a Trip to El Nido you may also like to read this article:
Comprehensive Hotel and Resort Guide for El Nido Palawan
