Table of Contents
Introduction to Getting to El Nido
Reaching El Nido is an adventure in itself, and understanding your transportation options is crucial for planning your trip. This comprehensive guide covers all the ways to reach this tropical paradise, whether you are flying from Manila or coming from other destinations in the Philippines.
El Nido is located in the northern part of Palawan Island, which is itself a large island in the western Philippines. Getting to El Nido requires some planning, as there are no direct international flights to the area. However, the journey is part of the adventure, and the stunning destination makes it worthwhile.
Getting to El Nido from Manila
Most visitors to El Nido start their journey from Manila, the capital of the Philippines. There are several options for reaching El Nido from Manila, each with different advantages in terms of time, cost, and comfort.
Option 1: Direct Flight to El Nido
AirSwift (formerly SEAIR) offers direct flights from Manila to El Nido. This is the most convenient option, with a flight time of approximately one hour.
The El Nido Airport (ENI) is located about 4 kilometers from the town center. Upon arrival, you can take a tricycle to your accommodation. Direct flights are popular and often sell out quickly, especially during peak season.
Pros: Fastest option, most convenient
Cons: More expensive, limited availability
Flight Duration: 1 hour
Cost: 5,000-8,000 PHP per person (one way)
Option 2: Fly to Puerto Princesa then Van to El Nido
This option involves flying from Manila to Puerto Princesa (the capital of Palawan) and then taking a van or bus to El Nido. This is the most popular option for budget-conscious travelers.
The flight from Manila to Puerto Princesa takes approximately 1.5 hours. Upon arrival in Puerto Princesa, you can take a van or bus to El Nido. The journey takes 5-6 hours by road.
Van services depart regularly from Puerto Princesa and can be booked at the airport or in advance through tour operators. The vans are air-conditioned and make several stops along the way.
Pros: More affordable, more flight options
Cons: Longer total travel time
Total Duration: 6-7 hours
Cost: 3,000-5,000 PHP per person (total)
Option 3: Overnight Bus from Manila
For the most budget-friendly option, you can take an overnight bus from Manila to Puerto Princesa, followed by a van to El Nido. This is a long journey but can be an adventure for backpackers.
Several bus companies operate this route, including Ceres Bus and Davao. The journey takes 12-14 hours, departing in the evening and arriving in Puerto Princesa early the next morning.
Pros: Cheapest option
Cons: Very long journey, less comfortable
Total Duration: 14-16 hours
Cost: 1,500-2,500 PHP per person (total)
Getting to El Nido from Other Destinations
From Puerto Princesa
As mentioned above, the most common route is from Puerto Princesa. The van or bus journey takes 5-6 hours and costs around 500-700 PHP for a van seat. You can also hire a private van for groups.
From Coron
If you are visiting both El Nido and Coron, you can travel between them by ferry. The ferry ride takes approximately 4-5 hours, depending on weather conditions. Several ferry companies operate this route, with departures daily.
Ferries depart from Coron town proper and arrive at El Nido town beach. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season.
Transportation Options Comparison
| Option | Duration | Cost (PHP) | Comfort | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Flight | 1 hour | 5,000-8,000 | High | Time-constrained travelers |
| Flight + Van | 6-7 hours | 3,000-5,000 | Medium | Most travelers |
| Bus + Van | 14-16 hours | 1,500-2,500 | Low | Budget travelers |
Best Option for Different Travelers
Choose the best option based on your priorities:
Time-Constrained Travelers: If you have limited time, the direct flight is your best option. It is the fastest way to reach El Nido and maximizes your time at the destination.
Budget Travelers: If saving money is your priority, the bus option is the most affordable. While it takes longer, the overnight bus allows you to save on accommodation costs by traveling while you sleep.
Comfort Seekers: If you want a balance of comfort and cost, the flight + van option is ideal. You get the convenience of flying while keeping costs reasonable.
Adventure Travelers: For those who see the journey as part of the adventure, the overnight bus offers an authentic Filipino travel experience.
Getting Around El Nido
Once you have arrived in El Nido, you will need to get around. Here are the main transportation options:
Tricycles
Tricycles are the most common form of transportation in El Nido. These three-wheeled vehicles can take you anywhere in town for 50-100 PHP, depending on distance. They can also be hired for trips to beaches outside town, such as Nacpan Beach.
Motorbike Rental
For more independent exploration, you can rent a motorbike in El Nido. Daily rental costs around 300-500 PHP. You will need an international driving permit to legally ride a motorbike in the Philippines.
Boat
For island hopping and reaching remote beaches, you will need to hire a boat. Prices vary depending on the destination and duration. Many tour operators include boat transportation in their island hopping packages.
Booking Tips
To get the best experience when traveling to El Nido, consider these tips:
Book flights early: Direct flights to El Nido fill up quickly, especially during peak season (December to March). Book well in advance to secure your preferred schedule.
Consider package deals: Some tour operators offer package deals that include flights, transfers, and accommodation. These can sometimes offer better value than booking separately.
Build in buffer time: When planning your journey, allow for some buffer time in case of delays, especially if you are taking multiple forms of transportation.
Keep important contacts: Save contact numbers for transportation providers and your accommodation in case you need to make changes or require assistance.
What to Bring for Your Journey
Regardless of how you travel to El Nido, pack these essentials:
- Comfortable clothing for the journey
- Snacks and water for the trip
- Entertainment for long journeys
- Important documents (passport, booking confirmations)
- Medications if needed
- Camera to capture the journey
Conclusion
While getting to El Nido requires some planning and time, the journey is part of the adventure that leads to this stunning destination. Whether you choose the convenience of a direct flight or the budget-friendliness of overland travel, you will be rewarded with incredible experiences in El Nido.
Plan your journey based on your budget, time constraints, and preferences. Book in advance, especially during peak season, and get ready to discover one of the most beautiful destinations in the Philippines.
| Platform | Best For | El Nido Deals |
|---|---|---|
| Booking.com | Hotels, resorts, free cancellation | View deals → |
| Agoda | Best Asia prices, loyalty rewards | View deals → |
| Klook | Tours & activities | Browse tours → |
