El Nido Waterfalls Guide 2026: Best Waterfalls & How to Visit

Most visitors come to El Nido for the sea — but the mountains and jungle of northern Palawan hide some spectacular waterfalls that make for excellent day trips away from the beach. This guide covers all the major waterfalls near El Nido, how to reach them, and what to expect when you get there.

1. Nagkalit-kalit Falls — El Nido’s Most Accessible Waterfall

Distance from town: 12 km | How to get there: Motorbike (₱500/day) or tricycle (₱600–800 return)
Entrance fee: ₱50 | Hike: 20–30 min from road through rice fields

Nagkalit-kalit is El Nido’s most popular waterfall — a tiered cascade dropping about 15m into a cool, clear natural pool perfect for swimming. The approach is through local rice paddies and a short jungle trail, making the journey itself scenic and rewarding.

• Swimming: The pool at the base is about 2m deep — safe for swimming
• Best season: November–May when water flow is steady; rainy season (Jun–Sep) sees stronger flow but muddier trails
• Bring: Water shoes (slippery rocks), cash for entrance fee, snacks — no facilities on-site
• Combine with: Nacpan Beach is on the same road — visit both in one day

2. Taraw Falls

Distance from town: 8 km | How to get there: Motorbike or hire a habal-habal (motorcycle taxi)
Entrance fee: None | Hike: 15–20 min

A smaller but very photogenic waterfall hidden at the base of one of El Nido’s iconic limestone karst cliffs. The pool is smaller than Nagkalit-kalit but surrounded by lush jungle — an excellent photo spot. Less visited than Nagkalit-kalit, so you may have it to yourself.

• Swimming: Small pool, good for a refreshing dip but not full swimming
• Best season: Year-round, but most impressive after rain
• Combined visit: Pair with a hike up Taraw Peak (El Nido’s famous limestone climb) for a full day in the mountains

3. Bulalacao Falls (near San Vicente)

Distance from El Nido: ~80 km (1.5 hrs by motorbike) | How to get there: Best with a hired motorbike or guide
Entrance fee: ₱50

Further afield than the other falls, Bulalacao is worth the trip for adventurous travellers. A multi-tiered waterfall in a remote jungle setting, with several pools at different levels for swimming. The approach involves river crossings — guides available locally for ₱200–300.

• Swimming: Multiple pools; the upper tiers are clearest
• Best season: Dry season only (Nov–Apr) — river crossings can be dangerous when swollen
• Note: Some tour operators in El Nido town offer day trips to Bulalacao as part of inland tour packages

4. Sibaltan Waterfalls (East El Nido)

Distance from town: ~45 km | How to get there: Motorbike or organised tour

The Sibaltan area east of El Nido has several smaller waterfalls accessible via local guides. Less developed and more adventurous than Nagkalit-kalit, these falls are best visited with someone who knows the trails. Ask at your hostel about guided Sibaltan day trips (₱800–1,200/person including transport).

How to Visit El Nido Waterfalls

By Motorbike (Recommended)

Renting a scooter or motorbike (₱500–700/day) is the most flexible option for waterfall day trips. Most roads to the major falls are paved or well-maintained gravel. A Philippine license (or international permit) is technically required but rarely checked.

By Tricycle

Hire a tricycle with driver for the day (₱800–1,500 depending on distance and itinerary). Easier and safer than self-driving but more expensive and less flexible for off-road trails.

Organised Tours

Several operators in El Nido combine Nagkalit-kalit Falls with Nacpan Beach and other inland stops as a full-day inland tour (₱800–1,200/person). Ask at your hostel or at the tour booths on Real Street.

Waterfalls vs Beach Days: How to Plan

Most travellers dedicate 1–2 days to inland activities (waterfalls, Taraw cliff climb, local villages) and the rest to island hopping and beach days. A good 5-day itinerary:

• Day 1: Arrive, relax, sunset at Corong-Corong
• Day 2: Island hopping Tour A
• Day 3: Nacpan Beach + Nagkalit-kalit Falls (same direction, combine in one day)
• Day 4: Island hopping Tour C (Hidden Beach, Secret Beach)
• Day 5: Taraw cliff climb + farewell dinner at one of El Nido’s best restaurants

Waterfall Visit Tips

• Go early: Arrive at waterfalls by 9am to avoid crowds and midday heat
• Wear water shoes: Rocks near falls are slippery — regular flip-flops are not safe
• Bring cash: Small entrance fees are cash only; no ATMs near the falls
• Don’t swim alone: Check with locals about current conditions before entering pools
• Dry season is better: Trails are safer and cleaner November–May; wet season adds flow but can close access

Combining your waterfall day with a beach visit? Nacpan Beach and Nagkalit-kalit Falls are on the same northern road — see our El Nido beach guide for Nacpan details. For more adventure activities, check our water activities guide and local culture guide.