El Nido is famous for its lagoons and beaches — but its inland waterfalls are a genuinely underrated alternative. Nagkalit-Kalit Falls, the area’s most accessible waterfall, offers a refreshing jungle hike and natural swimming pool completely different from the island-hopping experience. This guide tells you exactly how to get there and what to expect.
Table of Contents
Nagkalit-Kalit Falls: What Is It?
Nagkalit-Kalit Falls is a multi-tiered waterfall located approximately 7 km inland from El Nido Town. It cascades through dense tropical forest into a deep natural pool — clear enough to see the bottom, cool even during the dry season. The hike through the jungle to reach it is part of the experience: wildlife sightings (monitor lizards, hornbills, colorful birds) are common along the trail.
How to Get to Nagkalit-Kalit Falls
By Motorbike (Recommended)
The most popular option. Rent a motorbike in El Nido Town (PHP 400–600/day) and ride the main road north, then follow signs toward the trailhead. Park near the trail entrance. Total ride: 20–25 minutes from town. Basic navigational confidence required — the last section is unpaved.
By Tricycle
Hire a tricycle from El Nido Town to the trailhead (PHP 300–500 one way, negotiate round-trip). The driver typically waits while you hike. Total return trip: PHP 600–1,000.
As Part of an Inland Tour
The most convenient option for first-timers. Several operators offer half or full-day inland tours combining Nagkalit-Kalit Falls with other inland attractions — Nacpan Beach, inland viewpoints, or local farms. See our guide to the El Nido inland tour covering Nagkalit-Kalit and Nacpan for a combined option.
The Hike to the Falls
The trail from the road to the falls base takes approximately 20–35 minutes each way. Difficulty: easy to moderate. The path crosses a small stream twice (wear water shoes) and has some muddy sections after rain. Local guides are available at the trailhead (PHP 200–300) and are recommended for first visits — they also help spot wildlife.
Swimming at the Falls
The natural pool at the base is 2–3 metres deep in the centre — comfortable for swimming and cooling off. There is a small waterfall cascade you can stand under. Best visited in the morning before other day-trippers arrive (10:00 AM–noon tends to be busiest). Bring a change of clothes if you plan to swim.
What to Bring
- Water shoes (stream crossings on the trail)
- Insect repellent (DEET) — the jungle has mosquitoes
- Swimwear and a change of clothes
- Snacks and water (none available at the falls)
- Cash only (PHP 100–200 entrance/guide fee)
- Waterproof phone case or dry bag for your electronics
For a full packing list covering all El Nido activities, see the El Nido packing list guide.
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (November–May) guarantees the trail is accessible. The falls are most dramatic during and just after rainy season (June–October) when water volume peaks, though the trail can be very muddy. Morning visits beat the midday heat and midday crowds. For weather context, see the best time to visit El Nido guide.
Fitting the Falls into Your Itinerary
Nagkalit-Kalit makes an excellent half-day alternative to island hopping — ideal for a day when seas are rough, or as a rest day from boats. In the 7-day El Nido itinerary, Day 5 or 6 includes an inland day pairing the falls with Nacpan Beach. The 5-day itinerary also allocates one inland day.
Other Waterfalls Near El Nido
Nagkalit-Kalit is the most accessible, but the El Nido area has several other waterfalls further inland accessible only with a local guide or as part of a customised tour. Ask tour operators in town about seasonal waterfall options — some are only accessible after significant rainfall.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Nagkalit-Kalit Falls from El Nido?
Rent a motorbike (PHP 400–600/day) for the most flexible option — the trailhead is 20–25 minutes from town. Alternatively, hire a tricycle (PHP 600–1,000 round trip with waiting time), or join an inland tour that includes the falls as a stop.
Is Nagkalit-Kalit Falls hard to hike?
No — the hike is easy to moderate. The trail takes 20–35 minutes each way and crosses small streams. Water shoes are recommended. A local guide (PHP 200–300) is helpful for first visits and wildlife spotting.
Can you swim at Nagkalit-Kalit Falls?
Yes — there is a natural pool 2–3 metres deep at the base of the falls, perfect for swimming. The water is cool and clear even in dry season. Bring swimwear and a change of clothes.
What is the entrance fee for Nagkalit-Kalit Falls?
A small entrance or guide fee of PHP 100–200 per person is typically collected at the trailhead. Prices may vary. This is separate from the El Nido ecotourism fee (PHP 200) required for island-hopping tours.
Are there other waterfalls near El Nido?
Yes — the area has several seasonal waterfalls accessible with local guides. Nagkalit-Kalit is the most reliably accessible. Ask tour operators in El Nido Town about current conditions and other inland waterfall options.
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