Getting from the airport to El Nido town is straightforward once you know your options. Whether you’re flying into Lio Airport (15 minutes from town) or Puerto Princesa Airport (5–6 hours away), this guide covers all El Nido airport transfer options: costs, booking tips, and what to expect.
| Airport | Transfer Option | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lio Airport | Shuttle van | 15 min | ₱200–300 |
| Lio Airport | Private van | 15 min | ₱800–1,200 |
| Puerto Princesa | Shared van | 5–6 hrs | ₱500–700 |
| Puerto Princesa | Private van | 5–6 hrs | ₱6,000–8,000 |
Table of Contents
From Lio Airport to El Nido Town
Lio Airport (El Nido Airport) is just 7 km north of El Nido town — a 15-minute drive. AirSWIFT operates direct flights from Manila to Lio Airport, making this the fastest route to El Nido.
Shuttle Van (Shared)
The cheapest option. Shuttle vans wait outside the terminal and depart when full (8–12 passengers). Cost: ₱200–300 per person. No advance booking needed — just walk out and find the shuttle desk.
Private Van
For groups or travelers with lots of luggage, a private van costs ₱800–1,200 for the entire vehicle (up to 6 passengers). Book through your hotel or arrange at the airport.
Trike
Trikes (motorized tricycles) are available at the airport for ₱300–500 to El Nido town. Only suitable for 1–2 passengers with light luggage.
From Puerto Princesa Airport to El Nido
Most travelers fly into Puerto Princesa International Airport (the main Palawan airport) and take a 5–6 hour van ride to El Nido. The road is paved and scenic, passing through jungle, rice paddies, and coastal villages.
Shared Van
The standard option. Shared vans depart from Puerto Princesa Airport or the San Jose Terminal in the city. Cost: ₱500–700 per person. Vans depart when full (typically 10–12 passengers). Departure times: usually 6am, 9am, 12pm, and 3pm.
Booking: Book online via Klook, KKday, or directly with operators like Eulen Joy Transport or Cherry Bus. Walk-up bookings are possible but risky during peak season.
Private Van
For groups of 4+, a private van costs ₱6,000–8,000 for the entire vehicle. You set the departure time and make stops as needed. Book through your hotel or online platforms.
Tips for Airport Transfers
- Book Puerto Princesa → El Nido vans in advance during peak season (Dec–Mar) — they sell out
- Lio Airport shuttles don’t need advance booking — they’re always available
- Bring cash — some van operators don’t accept cards
- Allow buffer time — vans from Puerto Princesa can take 6+ hours with stops
- Morning departures are best — you’ll arrive in El Nido with daylight to settle in
Which Airport Should You Fly Into?
| Airport | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Lio Airport | Fast (15 min to town), convenient | Expensive flights, limited schedule |
| Puerto Princesa | Cheaper flights, more options | 5–6 hour van ride |
Recommendation: Fly into Lio Airport if budget allows — the time saved is worth it. Fly into Puerto Princesa if you’re on a tight budget or want to explore Puerto Princesa first.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get from the airport to El Nido?
From Lio Airport: take a shuttle van (₱200–300, 15 min). From Puerto Princesa Airport: take a shared van (₱500–700, 5–6 hours). Both can be booked online or at the airport.
How much is a van from Puerto Princesa to El Nido?
Shared vans cost ₱500–700 per person. Private vans cost ₱6,000–8,000 for the entire vehicle (up to 10 passengers).
Is it better to fly to Lio Airport or Puerto Princesa?
Lio Airport is faster and more convenient (15 min to town) but flights are expensive. Puerto Princesa is cheaper but requires a 5–6 hour van ride. Choose based on your budget and time constraints.
For more transport details, see our complete El Nido transport guide and Lio Airport guide.
| 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 → |
