El Nido, Palawan is a tropical paradise. From the crystal clear waters, and white sand beaches to the majestic underwater scenery and rich marine life, you’ll never see anything quite like it. El Nido deserves a spot on your bucket list!
“But how do I travel from Manila to El Nido, Palawan?” you might ask. There are several travel options to choose from. Keep reading to know what they are.
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Option 1: Direct flight from Manila to El Nido Palawan
El Nido Palawan’s Airport, also known as Lio Airport, is privately owned and operated by AirSWIFT Airlines. They have regular flights from Manila (3-6 departures daily) from Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 4 (NAIA-4). Travel time is about 1 hour and 30 minutes. A one-way flight from Manila to El Nido ranges from 6,000 to 8,000 PHP. Direct flights to El Nido come at a hefty price, but it will save you a lot of time.
Upon arrival at El Nido’s airport, you can take a taxi, van, or a local tricycle straight to your hotel. The main downtown area is approximately 10 minutes away from El Nido Palawan Airport. Check for AirSWIFT flights here.
Option 2: Flight or ferry from Manila to Puerto Princesa, then take a bus to El Nido
Manila to Puerto Princesa Flights
On a tight budget? You can book a flight from Manila to Puerto Princesa, and then travel by land to El Nido.
Commercial flights by bigger airlines like Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and AirAsia have more affordable fares. Keep an eye out for seat sales to get the best deals! Check for Manila to Puerto Princesa flights through our booking portal.
Manila to Puerto Princesa Ferry
On a tighter budget? Traveling by sea is another option. Book a ferry to Puerto Princesa via 2GO Travel and SuperFerry then ride a bus or van to El Nido. Be forewarned, ferries are the slowest option with a travel time of 12 hours. Ferry companies have seat sales too to help you score even better deals. But even without the sale, ferry ticket prices can’t be beaten! Look for ferry tickets here.
Puerto Princesa to El Nido Bus
Once you’ve reached Puerto Princesa, you can now travel by land to El Nido. To travel via public transport, ride the Cherry Bus which has daily trips from Puerto Princesa to El Nido and vice versa. Bus fare costs around 385 PHP for ordinary and 480 PHP for airconditioned. Check the schedule here. Most travelers get to El Nido using this same route. Tickets may be in high demand so it’s best to book yours in advance.
For larger groups and families, we recommend arranging for a private car. Book with a trusted transportation provider like Lexxus Shuttle.
El Nido Island Hopping Tours
Island hopping is the number one activity in El Nido. If you’re still undecided on what tour to join, read our El Nido tour overview below.
El Nido Tour A
This tour focuses on the beautiful lagoons, picture-worthy limestone cliffs, and majestic white beaches. You can go snorkeling at the Seven Commandos Beach, explore the Big Lagoon and enjoy a picnic lunch at Shimizu Island. Book here for El Nido Tour A.
El Nido Tour B
Tour B will let you explore the forest side of the island. Visit the Entalula, Pinagbuyutan, and Snake Islands and commune with nature through their forests and wildlife. You’ll go around caves too via kayaking! Book here for El Nido Tour B.
El Nido Tour C
Perhaps the favorite among tourists, this tour is about white beaches and majestic landscapes. This will take you to the famous Helicopter Island and the islands of Dilumacad and Matinloc. Book here for El Nido Tour C.
El Nido Tour D
This tour offers an itinerary full of lesser-known beaches. While some people prefer the mainstream ones, this is the tour to take if you want a quiet and secluded place. Check out the Cadlao Island and Small Lagoon!
For more El Nido travel deals, you may click HERE.
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*Last updated: November 21, 2024