Getting to El Nido requires planning — it sits at the northern tip of Palawan, 600 km south of Manila. There are two main routes: fly direct to El Nido Airport, or fly to Puerto Princesa and take a van. This guide covers every option with current prices and schedules.
Table of Contents
El Nido Airport (ENI) — Direct Flights from Manila
El Nido has a small domestic airport served exclusively by AirSwift. Flights operate from Manila’s Terminal 2 (MNL) and Clark International Airport (CRK). Flight time is approximately 65–75 minutes.
- Route: MNL → ENI, CRK → ENI
- Frequency: Multiple flights daily (MNL), 1–2 daily (CRK)
- Price: PHP 3,500–9,000 one way depending on booking lead time
- Book at: AirSwift website — book at least 4–6 weeks ahead for peak season
For the complete flight comparison including Clark Airport vs NAIA pros and cons, see our detailed guide to getting to El Nido from Manila.
Puerto Princesa Airport (PPS) + Van to El Nido
The budget route: fly Manila to Puerto Princesa (PPS) with Cebu Pacific, AirAsia, or Philippine Airlines (PHP 1,500–4,000 one way), then take a shared van north to El Nido. Journey time: 5–6 hours. Van cost: PHP 500–800. Total door-to-door: 8–9 hours from Manila.
This route is significantly cheaper but much longer. For travellers with 5+ days, the van ride through Palawan’s mountains and coast is actually a highlight. For short trips (3 days), pay the AirSwift premium.
From El Nido Airport to Town
The airport is 3 km from El Nido Town centre. Options:
- Tricycle: PHP 100–150 per person (shared), PHP 300–400 private
- Hotel transfer: Many hotels offer free or paid airport pickup — arrange in advance
- Van transfer: PHP 200–300, sometimes bundled with bookings
Booking Tips
AirSwift flights sell out fast in peak season (December–February). Book 2–3 months in advance. Low season (June–October) has more availability but weather uncertainty. The best time to visit El Nido guide covers seasonal considerations in detail.
Planning Your Trip Around Flights
Most direct flights arrive in El Nido by midday, giving you an afternoon free. In the 3-day El Nido itinerary, Day 1 afternoon is allocated to Tour A for morning arrivals. The 7-day itinerary accounts for different arrival times. Book accommodation near tour operators — see where to stay in El Nido for the best areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a direct flight to El Nido from Manila?
Yes — AirSwift operates multiple daily direct flights from Manila (NAIA Terminal 2) to El Nido Airport (ENI). Flight time is 65–75 minutes. Tickets cost PHP 3,500–9,000 one way. Clark Airport (CRK) also has AirSwift service with 1–2 flights daily.
How do I get from Puerto Princesa to El Nido?
Shared vans depart from the Puerto Princesa van terminal (near the airport) from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM approximately. Cost: PHP 500–800. Journey: 5–6 hours through Palawan. Private transfers cost PHP 4,000–6,000 and take 4–5 hours. Book shared vans through your accommodation or at the terminal on arrival.
How far is El Nido Airport from the town?
El Nido Airport is approximately 3 km from El Nido Town centre. A tricycle costs PHP 100–150 per person shared, or PHP 300–400 private. Journey time is 10–15 minutes.
Which airport is better for El Nido: NAIA or Clark?
NAIA (Manila, Terminal 2) has more frequent AirSwift departures and is more convenient for most travellers. Clark Airport (CRK) is better if you are coming from Angeles City or want to avoid Manila traffic. Both have similar flight times and prices to El Nido.
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