el nido travel requirements october 2022

2022 EL NIDO TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

by thepinay solobackpacker | May 27, 2022 | El Nido , Palawan , TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS | 0 comments

Momentarily ditch the bustling concrete jungle and head to El Nido, a blissful town  in Palawan with raw appeal.  Like the rest of the province, it is flanked by jaw-dropping tropical islands and palm-fringed, white sand beaches, vast pastoral lands, and lush forest. El Nido is an impeccable holiday destination for those seeking a laidback escape, no wonder why it is always on the list of  top beach destinations in the Philippines. Now good news is, El Nido, Palawan is now open to local and foreign tourists, and the the travel requirements is more relaxed now.  For fully vaccinated tourists traveling to El Nido, effective immediately, there is no more testing requirements. Here’s the latest El Nido travel requirements for 2022.

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EL NIDO TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS FOR  FULLY VACCINATED TOURISTS

1.Proof of Vaccination

• Domestic Tourist: If you are  a domestic tourist, you need to show your vaccination card or vaccination certificate that can be obtained HERE.
• Foreign Tourist: If you are a foreigner, you can present the One Health Pass, which can be obtained HERE.

  IMPORTANT: I get this question a lot, “What if I’m vaccinated out the country but I’m already staying in the Philippines for a while now?” I’m not sure about that, but it should fall under the One Health Pass.  However, that would still require an RT-PCR Test taken within 48 hours.  So, to make sure, please contact El Nido Tourism, their contact details is listed below.  Usually, what’s required is the World Health Organization International Certificates of Vaccination and Prophylaxis, or National/state digital certificate of the foreign government which has accepted Vax Cert PH under a reciprocal arrangement unless otherwise permitted by the IATF.

2. Roundtrip Tickets

3. El Nido DOT accredited hotel booking. Tourists must present a confirmed booking at any DOT accredited hotels. It should match the number of days you are staying in the island as per your roundtrip ticket.See the list of DOT accredited hotels in El Nido below.

4.Approved S-Pass. All visitors must present an approved S-pass, click HERE .     You need the travel requirements indicated above (1, 2,3) to be able to get an S-pass.

5. Valid ID. Though not really listed on the El Nido Travel requirements, you will need to bring your ID for verification, upon boarding your flight, checking in your hotel, applying for S-Pass, etc.

EL NIDO PARTIALLY OR NON-VACCINATED TOURISTS

1.Negative RT-PCR test. Must be taken within 48 hours prior to arrival in El Nido. 2. Proof of booking at El Nido DOT accredited hotels. You need a confirmed hotel booking at DOT accredited hotels. It should match the number of days you are staying in the island as indicated in your roundtrip ticket. 3. Roundtrip Tickets 4.Approved S-Pass. Must show your approved S-pass. 5. Valid ID.  

• El Nido Tourism
• Contact Number: 0930 336 2029/ 0905 084 663

WHERE TO STAY IN EL NIDO (DOT ACCREDITED HOTELS)

As I mentioned above, a confirmed booking at a DOT accredited hotel is required when traveling to El Nido.  Here’s some of them:

• Buskamp Inn Hotel
• Location: El Nido Town
• RESERVE HERE  
• Rosanna’ s Pension
• Hidden Garden Pension
• RESERVE HERE or BOOK HERE
• Bella Athena Garden
• Spin Designer Hostel
• Buena’s Haven Travel Lodge
• Location: Corong-Corong Beach
• Novie’s Tourist Inn 
• Maligaya Beach Bungalows

HOW TO GET TO EL NIDO, PALAWAN:

Manila to El Nido, Palawan ( Via Puerto Princesa)

1.From Manila, there are daily flights to Puerto Princesa, Palawan via Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and Airasia.

2. At Puerto Princesa International Airport, prepare your El Nido travel requirements documents especially your S-Pass. Staff at the airport will check and verify them.

3.Collect your luggage.

  4.At Puerto Princesa International Airport, you can take a direct van from Puerto Princesa to El Nido. To reserve a seat, book through the link below.

Puerto Princesa Airport van to El Nido/San Jose Terminal  bus to El Nido: BOOK HERE

Alternatively, you can charter a tricycle to San Jose Terminal for roughly ₱150 ($3), good for 3-4 passengers. At San Jose Terminal, there are vans and buses en route to El Nido, Palawan. You can also book a bus through the same link above from San Jose Terminal to El Nido, choose “bus” and scroll down. But take note that you still have to make your way to San Jose Terminal from Puerto Princesa Airport to ride the bus.

5.At El Nido bus/van terminal. Take a tricycle to your hotel.

6.At the check-in counter of your hotel, show your S-Pass, booking confirmation and other El Nido travel requirements for verification.

San Vicente, Palawan to El Nido

  *Flights to San Vicente, Palawan are currently unavailable*

1.If you are coming from San Vicente, you can ride a passenger van  to El Nido, Palawan. You can arrange this with your hotel/resort, so that the van will just pick you up at your accommodation.

 2. At El Nido bus/van terminal. Take a tricycle to your hotel.

3.Upon arrival at your hotel, show your El Nido travel requirements for verification.

SAN VICENTE PALAWAN TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

San vicente palawan things to do, san vicente palawan itinerary, el nido palawan tours.

Here’s a list of El Nido Tours for 2022, prices vary depending on the travel agency.  This is just a guide so you’ll have an idea approximately how much you need to pay for the El Nido Tours when planning your El Nido itinerary.  Also, prices may change without prior notice. If you notice, the tours below only include about 5 islands/beaches. The tour usually starts at 9:00 AM and lasts until 4:00 PM.  For shared tours, you will share it with other tourists.

*El Nido Tour Inclusion:

• Mask and snorkel
• Lunch buffet (typically consists of grilled fish, pork, seafood, and chicken, fruits and vegetables)
• Drinking water

*Additional Charges (not included in the tour package):

• Eco-tourism Development Fee: ₱200 ($4) per person, good for 10 days
• Lagoon user fee: ₱200 ($4) per person
• Kayak in Lagoon destination: ₱300 ($6) good for 2 persons

  Here are the usual prices per person for group tours, that means you will be joining other tourists during the El Nido island hopping tours. El Nido Island hopping rate.

EL NIDO TOUR A: RESERVE HERE (Discounted)

Other el nido tours:, taraw cliff: book here, luxury speedboat el nido tour: book here, diy el nido itinerary.

Here’s a sample DIY El Nido Palawan itinerary for your reference. I’ll write a more detailed blogpost soon. This is just to give you an idea what to do in El Nido when your plan your trip.

ALSO READ:  EL NIDO TRAVEL GUIDE + BUDGET ITINERARY

Travel tips and reminder.

• There’s still Covid-19, so, I recommend bringing your own snorkeling gear for your safety.
• Wear mask when not swimming or eating/drinking.
• Practice social distancing.
• Keep yourself hydrated especially if you’re traveling this summer. Bring your own water bottle and refill your water at your hotel.
• Support local businesses and tour operators.
• When riding the tricycle, ask for the copy of tariff rates so you’ll know how much exactly you need to pay. Unless you’re hiring the entire tricycle, you should pay for the minimum fare stated on the official tariff rate for tricycles. You’re also helping the locals this way. Because tricycles in most tourists spots tend to charge tourists higher, thus, they prefer tourists than local passengers. Many residents/locals end up complaining because tricycles won’t let them ride or ignore them since  drivers often prefer passengers who are tourists/outsiders because they pay higher.

Related Posts

WHAT TO DO IN SAN VICENTE PALAWAN (2023)

2022 Baler Travel Requirements

10 WAYS YOU CAN BE A RESPONSIBLE TOURIST IN PALAWAN

2022 PUERTO PRINCESA TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

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EL NIDO TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS & PROTOCOL (Palawan)

Best known for its stunning beaches and limestone cliffs, El Nido has been a part of numerous lists of the most beautiful beaches not just in the Philippines but in the world. Thanks to its truckload of natural attractions like the 7 Commando Beach, Hidden Beach, and Small and Big Lagoon. You can go swimming, snorkeling, and even kayaking on these island hopping adventures. You can also visit inland beaches like the twin beaches of Nacpan and Calitan, and Marimegmeg beach and soak up the sun by beach bumming.

When the pandemic hit, El Nido closed its doors to tourists. But now, it has been welcoming leisure travelers again. That said, a lot of things have changed since. Because we’re not out of the COVID-19 woods yet, certain protocols must be followed to be allowed entry to the destination. If you’re planning to go on a trip to El Nido, here’s our step-by-step guide!

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

1. Book an accredited hotel or resort.

A confirmed booking in an accommodation with a Certificate of Authority to Operate (CAO) from the Department of Tourism (DOT) is required for tourists traveling to El Nido.

Here are just a few of the many hotels, resorts, hostels and inns with CAO:

• Charlie’s El Nido . Check Rates & Photos! ✅
• La Casa Teresa Tourist Inn . Check Rates & Photos! ✅
• Layang Layang Home Inn . Check Rates & Photos! ✅
• Moringa El Nido Philippines . Check Rates & Photos! ✅
• El Nido Coco Resort . Check Rates & Photos! ✅
• A Place To Remember . Check Rates & Photos! ✅

➡️ SEE THE FULL LIST HERE: ACCREDITED EL NIDO RESORTS & HOTELS!

2. Complete the requirements.

Here are the documentary requirements that tourists from outside Palawan need to prepare before the trip:

• Roundtrip ticket
• Confirmed booking with an accredited resort/hotel
• For fully vaccinated tourists: VaxCert PH or vaccination card/certificate
• For unvaccinated or partially vaccinated tourists: negative RT-PCR test result , accomplished within 72 hours prior to arrival

All these documents will be subject to verification.

3. Secure an S-Pass Travel Coordination Permit (TCP).

You need an S-Pass account to be able to apply for a permit. Your S-Pass QR code will be scanned upon boarding your flight, upon arrival in El Nido, and when visiting attractions.

If you don’t have one yet, read: HOW TO CREATE AN S-PASS ACCOUNT!

Once you’re registered, follow these steps:

• Visit s-pass.ph and log in again.
• Tap the APPLY PERMIT tab and complete the succeeding form. Make sure to choose “LOCAL TOURIST” under Type of Traveler. For the destination, choose EL NIDO (BACUIT).
• Upload the listed requirements: valid ID, hotel booking, roundtrip ticket, and RT-PCR test result for unvaccinated or a copy of VaxCertPH or vaccination card for vaccinated tourists.
• Click SUBMIT. It will present a summary of your application with a PENDING mark. When it is approved, the mark will change to APPROVED.

IMPORTANT NOTES:

• Upload the VaxCert or Vaccination Card under RT-PCR section. When uploading documents, you won’t see an item asking for a vaccination certificate or card. If you’re fully vaccinated, upload them under the RT-PCR section.
• Under OTHER DOCUMENTS, you’re only allowed to upload one file per item . When uploading multiple documents as one file, upload a Word or PDF file.
• Make sure you choose EL NIDO (BACUIT) when entering destination. Otherwise, the municipal tourism office of El Nido won’t be able to receive your application.
• The number of days/nights indicated in the hotel booking and the roundtrip tickets should match. Booking multiple hotels is fine as long as they are all DOT-accredited.

4. Coordinate with El Nido Tourism Office

After submitting your application, tourists must coordinate with the Municipal Tourism Office of El Nido through their Facebook page, contact numbers or email address for the approval or release of the S-Pass Travel Permit. Follow up if necessary.

Here are their contact details:

Municipal Tourism Office (048) 433-2802 / 0969-013-7720 0919-002-1339 / 0906-449-0282 [email protected]

Guidelines during Island Activities

• Tourists must bring their own food and drinks for the tour to lessen person-to-person contact. Take note that single-use plastics are prohibited so it is best to bring a reusable water bottle.
• Always observe at least the minimum health protocols such as wearing of face masks and temperature checks upon entering establishments.
• Observe proper physical distancing at all times. The new island hopping tours are designed to maintain physical distance off-boat.
• Make sure to bring a copy of your S-Pass QR code when exploring.
• Keep your life jacket on at all times. Sharing is not allowed.
• Best to bring your own mask and snorkel and other similar gear.

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

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I’ve been to El Nido and would go back. But these rules are so restrictive, it’s not worth going again.

For example, can you imagine paying P10,000 to P13,000 for a fast turnaround PCR test. And paying a minimum of P8000 for the Airswift round trip from Manila. You’re locked in to your (expensive?) lodge booking, even if you don’t like the place.

Then you hope some bureaucrat approves your application within that 48 hour window between the PCR result and your flight? In my experience, that would be a record turnaround for a public servant in this country.

The food and activities sound so restricted there’s no joy to be had once you get to El Nido. Do you really have to have your itinerary approved in advance? Food (from where?) arranged by your hotel?

The whole thing sounds like a tour to North Korea. Except the beaches are better.

I predict El Nido will see almost no business until COVID is under better control and restrictions are relaxed.

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COVID El Nido Travel Requirements – Arriving Local Passengers

El Nido Travel Requirements – Arriving Local Passengers : This is the updated advisory for local or domestic passengers arriving in El Nido. If you’re looking for more information about COVID travel requirements in going to El Nido, we’ve got you covered!

Check out El Nido Travel Guide and Information .

Travel Permission and Community Alert Level for El Nido

• Updated:  October 1, 2022
• Alert Level 2: October 1 to 15, 2022

Here are the health and COVID travel requirements for El Nido, Palawan:

• Travel Requirements to the Philippines for Foreigners or Filipinos Arriving from Abroad
• Travel Requirements for Destinations Outside of the Philippines
• Travel Requirements for Destinations Within the Philippines
• Are Foreigners Allowed to Enter the Philippines?

Check Out the Latest Promos to and from El Nido

For the latest promos appearing above, please click on the respective links below for more information like booking and travel periods:

• Ending November 10, 2022: Cheapest Cebu Pacific Promo Tickets for 2022-2023 Travel For as Low as P88 One Way Base Fare
• Ending November 10, 2022: Cebu Pacific Ticket Promo for Asian Destinations, Dubai, or Sydney for as Low as P1299 One-Way Base Fare!

Traveling to El Nido soon? Check out the latest AirSWIFT Promos !

Flying to Puerto Princesa instead? Then check out Puerto Princesa Travel Requirements before you go!

El Nido Travel Requirements per AirSWIFT

Following the Executive Order 22-013 of El Nido, please be advised of the updated travel requirements effective  March 9, 2022 .

For Tourists

Children 11 years old and below traveling to the Municipality of El Nido are  NOT REQUIRED  to present Negative RT-PCR Test results provided that their parents and/or the guardians they are traveling with are FULLY VACCINATED .

Click this  link  to check the following hotels with Certificate of Authority to Operate.

For APOR (Workers/Business)

For el nido residents.

Children 11 years and below traveling to the Municipality of El Nido are NO longer required to upload negative COVID-19 test results (upon  S-PASS  application) provided, traveling with parents and/or the guardians who are FULLY VACCINATED.

To book AirSWIFT flights, please visit https://www.air-swift.com or contact Reservations Agents through the following mobile numbers: +63 917 859 2760, +63 917 806 5745, +63 917 816 8763, +63 917 859 2816 or email us at [email protected] . Our lines are open daily from 8AM to 5PM.

• Disclaimer : This is only an advisory from the referring airline. Travel restrictions are subject to change without notice by the issuing local government authority. As a result, the requirements or restrictions listed above are not real-time and should be used only as a guide. Please verify your requirements with the official offices, pages, or websites of both your origin and destinations directly.
• Source : AirSWIFT COVID-19 Travel Advisory
• AirSWIFT Travel Requirements for All Destinations
• AirSWIFT Promos for 2022
• AirSWIFT Flight Schedule
• AirSWIFT Cancelled Flights
• AirSWIFT Hotline and Contact Numbers

Latest Promos to and From El Nido

Latest AirSWIFT Promo Sale to and from El Nido for as Low as P1,077 One Way Base Fare

UPDATED El Nido Travel Requirements and Safety Guidelines (Updated July 2022)

El nido, palawan tourist requirements.

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El Nido, Palawan 2022 Travel Requirements

Table of Contents

T eam out of Town Hub ( www.outoftownblog.com ) – Philippine beaches would definitely have to be one of the sorely missed travel destinations when the pandemic started. One of the favorites would be El Nido in Palawan, rightfully recognized as the World’s Best Island in 2020 by Travel + Leisure. El Nido has always been a top spot for beach travel, particularly because of its unparalleled beauty with its pristine white sand beaches, limestone formations, and luxurious greenery. 

But with the current situation brought by the pandemic, traveling to El Nido has gotten stricter to ensure the safety of the locals and tourists. Several protocols have been put in place to travel to El Nido to be safe and worry-free. Read on to know more about the updated El Nido Travel Requirements this 2022!

Travel Requirements to go to El Nido, Palawan (Updated July 2022)

Additional requirements are now needed for this pandemic to travel to tourist destinations in the Philippines. This will help ensure the health and safety of all guests and locals in the provinces, so we can enjoy a worry-free trip! Read more details below:

List of El Nido Travel Requirements

For Fully Vaccinated Travelers

• Approved Travel Coordination Permit (via s-pass.ph )
• COVID-19 Vaccination Card/Certificate (via doh.gov.ph )
• Confirmed Hotel Booking at a DOT-accredited Accommodation
• Roundtrip Tickets
• Valid Government-Issued I.D.
• Negative Rapid Antigen Test Result from any DOH-accredited laboratories released within forty-eight (48) hours prior to arrival

For Unvaccinated/Partially Unvaccinated Travelers

For minors traveling with parents/guardians.

• Negative RT-PCR Test Result from any DOH-accredited laboratories released within forty-eight (48) hours prior to travel

For Fully Vaccinated Returning Residents

For unvaccinated/partially unvaccinated returning residents, dot-accredited accommodations in el nido.

A confirmed hotel booking is required to enter El Nido. Below are some of the best DOT-accredited accommodations in El Nido:

• Cauayan Island Resort

Location: Barangay Buena Suerte

• El Nido Resorts Lagen Island

Location: Lagen Island

• El Nido Matinloc Resort

Location: Matinloc Island

• El Nido Resorts Pangulasian Island

Location: Pangulasian Island

• Joaquinn’s Bed and Breakfast
• Lio Villas Resort

Location: Villa Libertad

• Rovic’s Tourist Hotel

Location: Barangay Masagana

• Sea Cocoon Hotel
• Spin Designer Hostel

Location: Balinsasayaw Road Corner Calle Real

• Vellago Resort

Location: Seven Commando Beach

DOT-accredited Travel Agencies in El Nido

Travel and tour packages must be handled by a DOT-accredited travel agency in El Nido. Below are some of the recommended DOT-accredited travel agencies in El Nido:

• Ape Tour Services

Socials: facebook.com/apetours.ph

Website: apetours.ph

• Buhay Isla Ecotour (El Nido Branch)

Socials: facebook.com/buhayislaecotour

Website: buhayisla.com

• Discover El Nido Travel & Tours

Socials: facebook.com/discoverelnidopalawan

Website: discoverelnido.com

• Go Paradise Travel & Tours (Main Office)

Socials: facebook.com/goparadisepalawan

Website: goparadise.org

List of El Nido Tourist Guidelines and Safety Protocols

Once local and international tourists and travelers enter El Nido, the following guidelines and safety protocols must be strictly followed:

Minimum Health Standards

Local and International Tourists and Travelers must wear face masks, frequently wash hands, and practice physical distancing.

Transport Protocols

Local and International Tourists and Travelers must secure their own private transportation from the point of entry to their accommodation, and from their accommodations to their activities, including island hopping, kayaking, scuba diving, and beach bumming. Tour packages booked should be handled by a DOT-accredited travel agency.

Fully Vaccinated Travelers are considered fully vaccinated if:

• Traveler has more than or equal to two (2) weeks after having received the second dose in a 2-dose vaccine or;
• Traveler has more than or equal to two (2) weeks after having received a single-dose vaccine

El Nido is one of the top summer destinations in the Philippines. Thanks to the white sand beaches, pacific blue waters, and steep limestone cliffs, it is not surprising that tourists and visitors flock here. Visitors should practice minimum health standards such as wearing face masks, frequent hand washing, and physical distancing.

For the latest information and resources on El Nido’s COVID Health Protocols and Travel Requirements, visitors can go to:

• Palawan.gov.ph/

Palawan is one of the premier summer destinations in the Philippines, and the charming town of El Nido captivates adventurers and travelers with its tropical islands, impressive cliffs, and diverse marine wildlife. Some of the popular activities on the island include swimming, diving, and island hopping.

Visitors from Manila can book a direct flight to El Nido Lio Airport via AirSWIFT Airlines, the only airline that currently services the Manila to El Nido route. Another by-flight option to reach El Nido is to book a flight to Puerto Princesa International Airport via AirAsia, Cebu Pacific, and Philippine Airlines, and take a van or bus going to El Nido. Visitors in Coron, Palawan can take a fast craft bound for El Nido, Palawan, while those in San Vicente, Palawan can hire a van to take them to El Nido.

The best time to visit El Nido is during the dry summer season in the Philippines, around January to April. Don’t forget to pack comfortable summer outfits and sun protection gear.

Keep updated with the latest requirements and travel guidelines by checking AirSwift’s website or El Nido’s Facebook page.  

Are you excited to travel again? Make sure to prepare all requirements beforehand and have a safe and happy trip to El Nido, Palawan! 

Sources: AirSwift , El Nido Resorts

Want updates about the latest travel and tourism updates in El Nido, Palawan ? Follow Out of Town Travel Blog  on  Facebook ,  Twitter ,  Instagram , Bloglovin, and  Pinterest  for more travel ideas.

Written by Melo Villareal

Melo Villareal is the Online Publisher of Outoftownblog.com. He is an Accountant by profession who left the corporate world at the age of 23 to explore his beautiful country and the rest of the world. Today, Melo works as a part-time Social Media Manager for local and international clients. His full-time work focuses on discovering interesting culture, explore different cuisines and take memorable photos from local and international destinations he's visiting.

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El Nido, Philippines Complete Travel Guide and My Six Days Solo Travel Itinerary

Last Updated on February 10, 2022 by Tina

El Nido is a municipality in Palawan in the Philippines. It is famous for its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, lagoons, and massive limestone cliffs. It has been consistently voted as one of the world’s best islands. I visited El Nido in 2018, and it’s still one of my favorite destinations. I almost canceled my trip there. Good thing my Turkish friend convinced me not to cancel the trip. He describes the place as heaven. Until now, my El Nido trip is still the best and most memorable solo trip I’ve had so far and I would love to go back there again when traveling is much easier. The town is very safe and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a destination for their first solo trip . Here’s an El Nido travel guide to help you plan your trip to this amazing place.

Located in the northernmost tip of mainland Palawan, El Nido is bordered by Linapacan on the north, the Sulu Sea on the east, Taytay in the south, and the West Philippine Sea on the west. This municipality has 64 islands and islets.

Table of Contents

What Are The Requirements For Tourists Visiting El Nido?

Because of the current situation, gone are the days when you could just book your flight and accommodation, pack your bags and go. Before you leave, you need to check the travel requirements in the city or town you are going to visit. El Nido reopened last July 7, 2021, and new and updated guidelines for tourists traveling to El Nido were released by the municipality.

Here are the requirements for tourists visiting El Nido (As of January 26, 2022):

For fully vaccinated tourists from outside palawan visiting el nido.

• Negative antigen test result accomplished within the last 48 hours prior to arrival in Palawan
• A valid government-issued ID
• Confirmed hotel booking/reservation in a Department of Tourism (DOT) accredited hotel covering all dates on flight itinerary
• Roundtrip airline ticket
• Proof of vaccination ( VaxCertPH or Vaccination Certificate)
• A copy of the approved S-Pass Travel Coordination Permit

For Tourists With Incomplete or No Vaccination From Outside Palawan Visiting El Nido

• Negative RT-PCR test result accomplished within the last 48 hours prior to arrival in Palawan

For Fully Vaccinated Palawan-based Tourists Visiting El Nido

• Confirmed hotel booking/reservation in a Department of Tourism (DOT) accredited hotel

For Palawan-based Tourists With Incomplete or No Vaccination Visiting El Nido

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Best Time to Visit El Nido

From October until the first or second week of June, the weather in El Nido is generally dry, hot, and sunny. On average, the temperatures are always high with May as the warmest month. January is the coldest month. A lot of rain falls from June to October, although even in rainy months there are dry days. It also does not rain all day long on a rainy day. August is the wettest month and March is the driest. With that said, the best time to visit El Nido is from December to April.

Related Post: Why El Nido in the Philippines is a Good Destination For Your First Solo Travel Trip

How To Get To El Nido

You have different options when going to El Nido. You can book a direct flight from Manila to El Nido or San Vicente, you can fly into Puerto Princesa and ride a van or bus to El Nido, or you can take a ferry if you are in Coron.

Option 1: Book a direct flight from Manila to El Nido. This saves you from all the travel time. Air Swift has daily flights to El Nido from Manila. You can make reservations through their website.

Option 2: Fly into Puerto Princesa, Palawan where most of the commercial flights land. From the airport, there are vans that offer direct service going to El Nido. Travel time is about 5-6 hours. Van trips are priced around Php 500. You can also ride a tricycle going to the bus station and ride a bus but the travel time takes up to 7-8 hours due to many stops for local passengers. The van is faster but it is not too comfortable especially if you get the seat at the back.

Option 3: Fly into San Vicente International Airport then ride a van to El Nido. Vans are available at the airport’s arrival area. The ride is around 4 hours and costs around Php 600.

Option 4: If coming from the Calamian group of islands (Coron, Culion, and Busuanga), you can take a ferry to El Nido. The trip takes around 8 hours. It is priced at approximately PhP 1800 per person.

Booking a direct flight from Manila to El Nido is the fastest and most comfortable option but it is the most expensive. As of the moment, due to the many restrictions brought about by the pandemic, the best option is to take a direct flight to Lio Airport in El Nido via Airswift.

Where to Go in the Philippines: Destinations That Are Now Open To Tourists

Mobile Signal and Internet Connection in El Nido

Mobile signal/mobile data is available in El Nido town proper. There are spots in other areas such as in Matinloc Island that have very weak or no signal at all, but who needs it when you are in paradise? Most hotels and hostels in El Nido have a free wifi connection.

Getting Around El Nido

There are several ways of getting around El Nido:

• Rent a motorbike- If you are traveling alone, have a driver’s license, and know how to drive a motorbike, renting one is the cheapest option.
• Charter a tricycle- If renting a motorbike is not an option for you, you can charter a tricycle to take you to Marimegmeg Beach or to other areas in El Nido.
• Rent a car- If you want a more comfortable means of getting around El Nido, you can arrange with your preferred travel agency a car to take you around.

Where to Stay in El Nido

El Nido has a range of options for accommodations depending on your budget. El Nido got you covered, from luxury hotels to backpacker’s hostels. Some of the accommodations you could try are the following:

Huni Lio Resort

Charlie’s El Nido

Frendz Hostel

The following are the accommodation establishments in El Nido that have been accredited by the DOT as of July 12, 2021:

Where To Eat

I’m not sure what restaurants are open now in El Nido and I haven’t really tried a lot when I was there because I had free breakfast at the hostel which was very good, and there’s free lunch during the island hopping tour. Here are three that I recommend:

Happiness Beach Bar

Happiness Beach Bar is a restaurant located along Serena St. and serves great Mediterranean food. They have hummus plates, pita falafels, salad options, and some more yummy selections for you to chose from. I love their swing!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tina dP @ I Went Anyways (@tnadeperalta)

Cafe Athena

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cafe Athena • El Nido (@cafe.athena)

Also located in Serena St., this restaurant serves really good Greek and Mediterranean dishes.

Jarace Grill

Jarace Grill is located along the beach and lined up outside the restaurant are the catch of the day, large squids, fresh pork belly, and pork skewers. You can choose whatever you fancy and they will cook it for you.

El Nido Tours

When I visited El Nido in 2018, the island hopping tours in Bacuit Bay were named as Tour A, B, C & D. These island hopping tours usually take you to 4 to 5 different spots. Months after that visit, the tours have been rebranded into the 7 Wonders of El Nido Tours. With the rebranding, you can’t visit both Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon in one day. They rebranded the tour to avoid crowding in the spots.

Related Post: El Nido Tour A: Lagoons and Beaches

With the current situation, they prioritized proper physical distancing, making sure crowding in the spots is eliminated. Get to see three different spots with breathtaking island views and amazing experiences in one day. Combination tours are not allowed.

They’ve set temporarily limited capacities and pre-booking of these tours is strongly advised. Only Department of Tourism (DOT) Accredited Local Travel Operators are allowed to conduct premium tours, so make sure you check that your travel operator is DOT accredited before you book a tour. Below are the accredited travel operators in El Nido:

What To Do In El Nido

Go island hopping in bacuit bay.

As I have mentioned earlier, El Nido has 64 islands and islets and one of the most popular activities in El Nido is island hopping. Bacuit Bay has magnificent views and rich biodiversity that you will surely love.

Visit Nacpan Beach

Located around 20 kilometers from the town proper, Nacpan Beach is a 4-kilometer stretch of golden sand and strong waves. It is one of the most famous mainland beaches in El Nido and has been named in different travel magazines as one of the world’s best beaches.

It is a good place to hang out if you just want to spend the day chilling and swimming.

Chill at Las Cabañas Beach and wait for the sunset.

Also called Marimegmeg Beach, it has white sand, clear water, palm trees, and a beautiful sunset. It is easily accessible as it is only 6 kilometers away from the town proper. Shops, bars, and restaurants could be found here and you can even go ziplining.

Do the El Nido Taraw Via Ferrata Canopy Walk

If you want to catch a bird’s eye view of the town and the bay from Taraw Cliff in a safe way, do the El Nido Taraw Via Ferrata Canopy Walk.

Surf at Duli Beach

Located 28 kilometers away from the town proper, Duli Beach is a remote area popular for surfing. Surfing here peaks from June to August and December to February. Restaurants and surf shops are available here and the area has rock views ideal for photoshoots.

My El Nido Solo Travel Itinerary

As with my previous solo trips, I went to El Nido unprepared. The only thing I prepared for was my accommodation. I only booked my van to El Nido when I was about to board the plane to Puerto Princesa. My flight arrived at Puerto Princesa before 12 noon and I was picked up by the van at the airport.

Day 1: Arrived in El Nido; dinner at Jarace Grill

The van to El Nido left Puerto Princesa around 1:00 in the afternoon. We arrived in El Nido before 6:00 PM. After checking in at Spin Designer Hostel, I went to Jarace Grill to have dinner. Since I didn’t research much about the place, I decided to just ask the receptionist at Spin where is a good place to have dinner and she recommended Jarace Grill. It is within walking distance from the hostel and is located along the beach. Lined up outside the restaurant are the catch of the day, large squids, fresh pork belly, and pork skewers that were on display for you to choose from. Because I love crabs, it is what I ordered and I asked them to cook it with gata (coconut milk).

Day 2: Island Hopping Tour A and waited for sunset at Maremegmeg Beach; dinner at Angel Wish Restaurant

On the second day, I decided to do the Island Hopping Tour A. What I love about El Nido is that even if you are traveling solo, you can still go on island hopping tours without having to pay for the whole boat because their tours are join-in tours. The tour had 5 stops: the Seven Commandos Beach, Small Lagoon, Payong-payong Beach, Big Lagoon, and Secret Lagoon. You can read about my island hopping tour A experience in this post .

After the island hopping tour, I went to Maremegmeg Beach for the sunset though it wasn’t that nice because it was drizzling that day. After that, I had dinner at Angel Wish Restaurant which is located along the beach.

Day 3: Island Hopping Tour C; barbecue night at Spin Hostel

For my third day, I went on an island hopping tour again. The tour had five stops: Helicopter Island, Hidden Beach, Secret Beach, Tapiutan Island, and Matinloc Shrine. I had the best time during this tour because it was a smaller group and most of us are ladies. One of them stays at the hostel I stayed at. She was really nice. We did things together during the trip so it didn’t feel like I’m traveling alone.

After the island hopping tour, I had dinner at the hostel because it was barbeque night.

Day 4: Explored Nacpan and Lio Beach; dinner at Cafe Athena

On my fourth day, I spent most of the day chilling at Nacpan Beach. I checked out what was on the other end of the beach and on my way there, I saw a sea snake. I thought it was dead because it wasn’t moving. Good thing I didn’t go too close because when I started walking, it moved. In case you don’t know, sea snakes are venomous.

It also rained while I was in Nacpan so I just read a book while waiting for it to stop. From Nacpan Beach, I asked my guide to take me to Lio Beach. It is a long white beach with shops and restaurants along the beach. For dinner, I went to Cafe Athena.

Day 5: El Nido Taraw Via Ferrata Canopy Walk and spent the rest of the day chilling at Maremegmeg Beach; dinner at Happiness BeachBar

On my fifth day, I was planning to just spend the day at Maremegmeg Beach. But when I hailed a tricycle, he suggested that I try out the El Nido Taraw Via Ferrata Canopy Walk. It seemed interesting so I went to check it out. The view of the town from there was very nice, and I had a really interesting conversation with the guide.

From the canopy walk, I went to Maremegmeg Beach and spent the whole day just chilling and swimming. Before dinner, I met up with a half-Aussie-half-South African guy who has been residing in El Nido for 6 years already. It was quite interesting talking to him because he used to work as a driller in an oil company. He worked in the same company as my college classmates.

After that, I went to Happiness Beach Bar to have dinner.  I ordered a frozen margarita for my last night in El Nido and I was also given a free shot of BBK. I don’t remember what it is anymore, but I remember that it was really good and that I had a great night.

Day 6: Travel back to Puerto Princesa

On the sixth day, I left El Nido early and traveled back to Puerto Princesa. I spent the night there before going back to Manila.

Some Useful Tips When Visiting El Nido

• Don’t forget to bring sunblock. You’ll be staying under the sun for very long periods of time so better protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
• Single-use plastic bottles are not allowed during island hopping tours so don’t bring one.
• Bring your own mask, snorkel, and other similar gears because rentals of these gears are temporarily banned.
• Wear your life jacket at all times during island hopping. Sharing is strictly prohibited.
• Observe minimum health standards always.
• Philippine peso is the currency used on the island. Make sure you exchange your money for the local currency in big cities before going there to avoid having the problem of looking for money changers.
• There are banks on the island where you can withdraw money but I suggest bringing enough cash before going just in case the machines are offline.
• The island is very safe even for solo female travelers but as in any place, don’t leave your things especially your valuables unattended.

It’s so nice to reminisce about the good old days. I wish I could go back to this paradise again someday. If you have other questions about El Nido, feel free to write them down below.

And if you haven’t subscribed to my blog yet, please do so you don’t miss any of my posts. And please follow my Facebook page @iwentanyways  and like my Instagram accounts  @iwentanyways  and  @tnadeperalta  for updates.

* Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. Keep in mind that I link these companies and their products because of their quality and not because of the commission I receive from your purchases. The decision is yours, and whether or not you decide to book something is completely up to you. Using my links costs you nothing extra and  will help in maintaining this blog. Thanks for your support!

3 thoughts on “El Nido, Philippines Complete Travel Guide and My Six Days Solo Travel Itinerary”

Will love to visit Philippines didn’t it was such a great place still I did see this blog

this is a great post po, thank you for all the insight!!

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Palawan Travel Requirements, Your Guide to the New Travel Guidelines in Palawan, 2022 June.

Updated news on palawan travel guidelines 2022.

All major Palawan destinations (El Nido, Coron, San Vicente, Culion, and Amanpulo) are open for tourism except Puerto Princesa.

Unrestricted Destinations:

Coron, Palawan

Requirements: https://s-pass.ph/pages/requirements/175309

El Nido, Palawan

Requirements: https://s-pass.ph/pages/requirements/175312

Restricted:

Balabac, Palawan

Requirements: https://s-pass.ph/pages/requirements/175304

Other Municipality in Palawan

Check here, https://s-pass.ph/

Palawan Travel Requirements 2022

Before you visit the majestic Palawan, take note of all the important travel advisories, guidelines, and Palawan LGU travel requirements to keep both tourists and locals safe.

Coron Travel Requirements

All fully vaccinated domestic tourists are allowed to enter. Minors must be accompanied by fully vaccinated parents or guardians. Tourists on staycation are required to stay within the hotel or resort premises at all times.

CORON TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS 2022

Here’s a list of the Coron Palawan travel requirements 2022 to take note of before your trip:

Approved S-Pass travel application

Vaccination card

Negative antigen test result (QR coded with attached receipt) or negative saliva test result (through the Philippine Red Cross) – should be conducted within 24 hours before boarding any mode of transportation.

Roundtrip ticket

Confirmed accommodation booking

El Nido Travel Requirements

Tourists from the National Capital Region (NCR) are allowed point-to-point travel following the El Nido Palawan travel requirements.

All ages are allowed entry but individuals over 65 years of age, those with immunodeficiency, comorbidities, or other health risks, and pregnant women must be fully vaccinated. They can only travel at least 2 weeks after the second dose.

Those staying more than seven (7) days will be subjected to an antigen test on the 8th day. This travel requirement to El Nido must strictly be followed.

Here’s a list of the El Nido travel requirements 2021 to take note of before your trip:

EL NIDO TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS 2022 FOR FULLY VACCINATED

Approved S-PaSS travel application

Vaxcert accomplished via vaxcert.doh.gov.ph or vaccination card

Hotel Booking at DOT-accredited establishment

Negative Antigen test result valid within 48 hrs prior to arrival in Palawan.

EL NIDO TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS 2022 FOR UNVACCINATED / PARTIALLY VACCINATED

Negative RT-PCR test result taken within the last 48 hours before travel

EL NIDO TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS 2022 FOR MINORS TRAVELING WITH PARENTS / GUARDIANS

11 years old and below with fully vaccinated parents/guardians – Negative rapid antigen test result

12 years old and above with fully vaccinated parents/guardians – Negative RT-PCR test result

11 years old and below with non-vaccinated parents/guardians (or incomplete vaccination)- Negative RT-PCR test result

12 years old and above with non-vaccinated parents/guardians (or incomplete vaccination) – Negative RT-PCR test result

Puerto Princesa Palawan Travel Requirements 2022

Tourists visiting Puerto Princesa City can only stay there for a maximum of 4 days and 3 nights only. If intending to stay for more than 4 days, the tourist must undergo a 7-day mandatory facility-based quarantine (at traveler’s expense). See below for the Puerto Princesa Palawan Travel Requirements 2022:

S-PASS Travel Coordination Permit

StaySafe QR Code

Negative RT-PCR Test Result from testing facilities accredited by the DOH using nasopharyngeal swabs taken within forty-eight (48) hours prior to arrival

Travel Order / Travel Itinerary (for APORS)

Vaccination Card or ID (for travelers staying for 3 days only)

Returning Ticket (for travelers staying for 3 days only)

For items 6 & 7 basic travel requirements, only fully vaccinated APORs are eligible for the short-term stay and free to go upon arrival, subject to rapid antigen test within 24 hours upon arrival.

Whether you are fully vaccinated or not, you still need to comply with item 4 (test prior travel).

For more updates and information on the latest Palawan LGU travel requirements, visit this website: http://www.palawan.gov.ph/

Related stories you shouldn’t miss:

Palawan Expedition Top Islands Destination, Your Guide to the Best Islands in Palawan.

10 Most Beautiful Beaches in Palawan

Top Rated Activities and Spots in the Philippines, your only guide to the best Philippine Adventure.

Best Islands to visit in Palawan: Part II: El Nido

Check out our blog for more Palawan Information,

https://www.elnidoadventure.com/blog

Frequently Asked Questions About Palawan Travel

Requirements 2022.

Q: Is Palawan accepting tourists now? A: Yes, Palawan has reopened for tourists. All major Palawan destinations (El Nido, Coron, San Vicente, Culion, and Amanpulo) are open for tourism except Puerto Princesa.

Q: Do we need to present a negative RT PCR test result in Palawan? A: Yes, one of the travel requirements to Palawan is a negative RT-PCR Swab test Result.

Q: Do we need to present a negative RT PCR test result in Coron, Palawan? A: Yes, one of the Coron Palawan travel requirements is a negative RT-PCR Swab test Result (QR coded with receipt) conducted within 48 hours before boarding aircraft.

Q: Do we need to present a negative RT PCR test result in El Nido, Palawan? A: Yes, one of the El Nido tourist requirements is a negative RT-PCR Swab test Result taken within the last 72 hours before travel.

References of information written in this guide for tourists going to Palawan

https://app.philippines.travel/articles/palawan-safety-advisory

https://philippines.travel/safetrip/palawan

https://www.philippineairlines.com/en/ph/home/covid-19/TravelingWithinThePH/Busuanga

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El nido palawan complete travel guide for tourists [updated 2022] - philippines travel and tourism.

From its stunning waters, white sand beaches, serene islets, limestone cliffs, and diverse wildlife, El Nido, Palawan is on every vacationer’s bucket list.

Tucked in the northernmost tip of mainland Palawan, the Municipality of El Nido is home to magnificent limestone cliffs and formations, biodiverse ecosystems, crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches, spectacular views, and beautiful people with amazing culture and hospitality – it’s no wonder that Palawan was declared the World’s Best Island in 2020 by travel magazine Travel+Leisure!

“El Nido” are Spanish words that translate as “the nest”. The thriving Balinsasayaw (swiftlet) bird’s nest industry in Town was one of El Nido’s leading trades before the boom of tourism. Currently, the nest trade is highly monitored and regulated as the birds’ population needs to recover. At present, many of the residents depend on tourism – the Town’s leading commerce for the last two decades.

List of 64 Islands and Islets in El Nido

How to Get There

Located at the nothernmost tip of Palawan , El Nido is quite a remote municipality. It is around 148 miles northeast of Puerto Princesa, Palawan’s only city. Nowadays, this tropical wonder is much easier to reach. 

Direct flights from Manila are available via Air Swift. Many people fly into Puerto Princesa City in Palawan, and then take a bus or van to El Nido.

When saving yourself from all the travel time, getting to El Nido by air is the best way to do it. AirSwift Airline – the only company that presently flies directly to El Nido offers flights to and from Manila. Reservations may be made through their official website at www.air-swift.com or at their local agents in El Nido.

AirSWIFT is the only airline that flies directly to El Nido from Manila

AirSWIFT Advisory #53 [As of Jan. 26, 2022]

Please check  AirSWIFT Airlines  Facebook Page for updated travel information.

SHUTTLE VAN

From Puerto Princesa, one will have to travel about 5- 6 hours to get to El Nido. Van trips are available through local travel agents. 

El Nido is about 5 hours away from From Puerto Princesa City where most of the commercial flights land. Van trips priced at approximately PhP 500 per person are readily available through the travel operators in El Nido, online, or sometimes at the Airport’s arrival area.

From Puerto Princesa, buses to El Nido are also available. Trips can take up to 7-8 hours due to the many stops for local passengers.

Bus trips priced at approximately PhP 500 per person depart from the San Jose terminal which is around 20 minutes away from the Puerto Princesa International Airport. From San Vicente International Airport, the ride to El Nido is about 4 hours. Vans priced at approximately PhP 600 are available at the Airport’s arrival area. From other areas in Palawan such as Port Barton and Sabang, daily van trips are offered by most local travel agents.

Cherry Bus Palawan

2x2 Aircon with CR/ Toilet for your Comfort!

Puerto Princesa City to El NiDo via Roxas and Taytay vice versa

Daily Trips Schedule:

Puerto to El Nido - 9AM

El Nido to Puerto - 9AM

Fare/ Pamasahe: 585 pesos per pax

For Bus Ticket/s Reservations please go to Bicol Isarog Transport System Inc.

or you can call the following cp numbers:

(0998) 868 4178 / 0946 070 3963

If one is coming from the Calamian group of islands (Coron, Culion, and Busuanga), there are ferries traveling daily from Coron to El Nido and vice versa.

While most sea transport to and from El Nido are dedicated for cargo, there are passenger ferries bringing tourists at priced at approximately PhP 1800 per person to and from Coron – the gateway for the Calamian group of islands

Must See - Island Hopping Tours

El Nido, Philippines. THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACE in the entire world. We did Tour A which brought us to Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon and a couple other spots. This vlog is probably my best, so enjoy!

Big Lagoon Premium Tour

A top feature of many travel magazines and a the tourist favorite, Big Lagoon should indeed be on your El Nido bucket list!

Small Lagoon Premium Tour

The Small Lagoon boasts its serene turquoise waters that make up a natural pool in the middle of breathtaking cliffs.

Matinloc Island Premium Tour

The Matinloc Shrine is an abandoned spiritual oasis in the Matinloc Island. The area offers one of the best views of El Nido's Tapiutan Strait.

SEVEN COMMANDO

Located very close to town, Seven Commando Beach is a beautiful stretch of white sand combined with wonderful swimming and snorkeling areas.

Known as the Surfer’s Paradise, Duli Beach offers the most surfing waves in El Nido. It also has a pristine long beach ideal for beach activities and photo shoots.

NACPAN BEACH

Offering great beach days, Nacpan is perfect for relaxation as it boasts its long perfect cream sand and wonderful swimming areas.

Cave Exploration Tour

Explore the mysterious caves, secret coves, pristine beaches, and intriguing historic sites in El Nido, Palawan: Enjoy the exclusive use of the tour boat as you visit Cudugnon Cave, Cathedral Cave, Snake Island, and Pinagbuyutan Island. 

Tapiutan Strait Tour

Discover the white-sand beaches and limestone formations in Palawan on a tour to El Nido’s Tapiutan Strait. This tour is perfect for travelers wanting to bask in the sun, swim, and snorkel across scenic beaches and idyllic landscapes.

Cadlao Channel Tour

Go on an island-hopping escapade to visit some of the most beautiful sites in El Nido, Palawan. This island-hopping tour is perfect for those wanting to visit breathtaking beaches, caves, and lagoons in El Nido. 

History Islands Tour

Each one of the El Nido Tours A, B, C, D will take you on a journey to explore a specific part of the islands surrounding El Nido. You will discover beautiful and preserved islands, clear water lagoons, white sand beaches, snorkeling sites and their hundred of fishes and coral species.

5D4N EL NIDO PACKAGE TOUR ON A BUDGET SAMPLE ITINERARY 👌

January 2022

PACKAGE INCLUSIONS:

• 3 Nights Hotel Accommodation

- Standard Pension AC room with Private Bath

- Daily Breakfast

• Airport Transfer (Pick Up/Drop Off)

• Roundtrip air conditioned Van Transport

- Airport – EL Nido Van Terminal – Airport

• TOUR A

• TOUR C

• TOUR D

• Picnic Style Lunch

SAMPLE ITINERARY:

• day 1. arrival.

- Pickup at the Airport

- Travel to El Nido (5 – 6 hours)

- Check in at Novie's Tourist Inn - https://www.facebook.com/noviesinnofficial/

• Day 2. TOUR A

1. Seven Commandos Beach

2. Shimizu Island (where we had our picnic lunch)

3. Small Lagoon

4. Big Lagoon - Sobrang ganda 🥺

5. Secret Lagoon 

Sunset at Nacpan Beach after the tour, you can rent a van (travel time of 30-45 mins) 

• Day 3. TOUR C

1. Helicopter Island

2. Secret Beach

3. Hidden Beach

4. Star Beach 

5. Matinloc Shrine

Dinner at Las Cabañas Beach. Get a chance to have an breathtaking sunset dito!

• Day 4. TOUR D

1. Cadlao Lagoon

2. Ipil Beach

3. Paradise Beach

4. Pasandigan Beach

5. Bukal Beach

5pm - Travel back to PPS

- Day 5. Departure day

- Breakfast

- Check out at Accommodation

- Travel Back to Airport for Departure

TOTAL EXPENSES with airfare - ₱9,700

Note: This is estimate only based on actual travel experience so you can have a rough idea. The cost will depend on your travel style, preference, airfare, etc.

• Cebu Pacific RT airfare ₱1,700 (via Travel Fund)

• Tour Package ₱6,000 (rates may change based on your itinerary)

• El Nido Eco-Tourism Fee ₱200

• Entrance for the Lagoons ₱200

• Matinloc Shrine Entrance Fee ₱100

• Kayak Rental ₱300/2 pax

• PPS accommodation ₱500/2 pax

• Las Cabañas Dinner ₱500 - optional

• Van to Nacpan Beach ₱600/2 pax

📌 Recommended travel and tours! 

ELByahe's Travel and Tour 

Contact Number: 0947-617-3708, 0926-038-7378

📌 Don’t forget to bring aqua shoes. There’s rental available but cheaper if you have your own.

📌 Bring your own snorkeling equipment. They won’t let you borrow one due to COVID restrictions.

📌 Please scroll down to see list of travel and tour operators in El Nido 

El Nido Experience (November 6-9) - TIPS from a local tourist

Requirements:.

El Nido tourist qr code 

*airfare 900plus round trip per pax sa  ceb pac. Seat sale * ELByahe's Travel and Tour  yung name ng travel and tour na nacontact namin (authorized sila ng el nido tourism office). Transfer+2tours (tour a and tour c)+ hotel(anangs) for 7500 per pax ang offer samin 5. *Mahirap mag DIY dun kase sa airport palang ichecheck na nila lahat. *Pwede po kayo bumaba sa Puerto Princesa airport  kung namamahalan kayo sa airswift na direct flight to El Nido *Kung group kayo magtatravel and di magkasabay ung dating nyo sa Puerto Princesa airport, di pwede lumabas sa airport ang mga nauna dapat sabay kayo lahat lalabas at susunduin ng van going to el nido  *Sa mga naiwan ng eroplano, no need to worry about spass and el Nido qr code basta makahanap kayo ng flight within the day regardless kung ano airline ang magdadala sayo sa palawan. *Make sure na umaga kayo darating ng Puerto Princesa para hapon nasa El Nido na kayo. Sa case namin gabi na kami nakarating dahil naiwanan ng eroplano (ceb pac) ung kasama ko. So nakabook sila ng pal for an afternoon flight. *Kung ceb pac ang sasakyan nyo at wala kayong check in baggage. Strict sila sa one bag policy pero pwede ung isang personal sling bag aside from the bag mismo. May extra kaming supot dahil namili kami ng food pero hinaharang kami kaya iniwan na namin un. Yung bag ko (mountaineering bag) naharang din dahil sa laki pero nung tinimbang di umabot sa 7 kilos kaya nakalusot din. Muntik na kaming maiwan dahil sa higpit ng security guard sa terminal 3. Di naman mahigpit ung pagchech in namin sa Puerto Princesa airport kase di na nila tinimbang ang bag ko at naconsider agad as hand carry ung bag ko. *Regarding sa place to stay mas maganda kung malapit kayo sa bayan magstay para in case magutom kayo pwede kayo maglakad lakad for food trip. May free breakfast (packed bfast with one sachet ng coffee) na inooffer ung travel and tours na agency pero masarap na mabango ung bfast na luto ng anangs make sure to order ahead of time. *Regarding sa tour kung ilan kayo nagavail ng package kayo lang din ang magkasama. May 200 pesos kayong babayaran during the tour sa pier ng bangka nyo babayaran un. Libre po ang tricycle sundo from hotel to bangka pier pwera lang sa tricycle pabalik ng hotel from island tour. May 500 pesos fee for the kayak dun sa lagoon. *10 am ang sched ng ceb pac flight pabalik ng Manila kaya 2am na kami sinundo ng van  Hope this helps. 😊

Aired (June 14, 2019): Do you want to know why El Nido, Palawan is on top of many travelers’ bucket lists? Watch this video!

TOURISTS ENTERING THE MUNICIPALITY OF EL NIDO 

Travel advisory for tourists from outside palawan, a. required documents prior to boarding your aircraft to el nido, palawan, 1. vaxxed: vaccination card/certificate, 2. approved s-pass  (unrestricted), b. other documents and policies for your safety and security, el nido tourism contact details | for s-pass concerns.

Please be advised that erroneous applications cannot be entertained and tourists will be asked to re-apply correctly. The most common mistakes made are the incorrect input of type of traveler and point of destination. El Nido Municipal Tourism Office will not be able to receive applications if the point of destination entered upon permit application is not El Nido (Bacuit), and travelers who will select other categories besides local tourist will be routed to another office and will be considered a mistaken or incorrect application.

Fully Vaccinated Tourists from Outside Palawan Visiting El Nido

Tourists with Incomplete or NO Vaccination from Outside Palawan Visiting El Nido

Fully Vaccinated Palawan-Based Tourists Visiting El Nido

With Incomplete or NO Vaccination Palawan-Based Tourists Visiting El Nido

What You Need To Know About Travelling to the Philippines

Municipal Tourism Office Advisory 013

Shared island hopping activities - now allowed , kindly present the following documents upon booking and before embarkation:.

• Valid ID with photo; 
• Approved S-PASS travel coordination permit for tourists or apors; &
• Vaccination certificate, vaccination card or *negative antigen test result

EMERGENCY HOTLINES

Municipal disaster risk reduction and management office (mdrrmo), emergency operations center (eoc), philippine coast guard station - el nido.

El Nido Tourism Office

Updated list of dot-accredited accommodation, travel and tours, dive shops, restaurants, recreational activities .

✅DOT-Accredited Accommodation as of March 7, 2022

✅dot-accredited travel and tours as of march 7, 2022, ✅dot-accredited dive shops as of march 7, 2022, ✅dot-accredited restaurants as of march 7, 2022, ✅dot-accredited recreational activities as of march 7, 2022, updated list of dot-accredited tres in el nido as of january 31, 2022., previous list as of january 19, 2022), list of accommodation establishment with dot accreditation, a place to remember, ahana resort, alocasia hostel, anang balay turista, angelic tourist inn , angelnido resort, angkla beach resort, apt the apartments at el nido, aqua travel lodge, atplay hotels inc. (frangipani el nido), balai adlao, bayview country inn, beachfront villa overlooking, bella athena garden, birdhouse glamping, blue mango hotel & resort, buenas haven travel lodge, buko beach resort, bulskamp inn, bunakidz lodging house, cabanas de nacpan, cadlao resort & restaurant, casa kalaw , casa cecilia, casa malaya, charlie’s el nido, chislyk inn, citrine tourist travel lodge, cliffside cottages, den’gi inn, devayns inn, dolarog beach resort, dryft travel expeditions, duli beach resort, ecohotels inc.-suites by eco hotel, el nido bayview resort, inc, el nido beach hotel , el nido coco resort, el nido garden resort, el nido reef strand , eastwind beach club, faith rica pension, fisheye the rooms, fisherman village, frendz hostel , golden monkey cottages, green turtle resort (vellago resort), hadefe cottages, hutch lodging house, hidden garden pension , huni lio resort, hwan dynasty suite, innscape resorts and suites inc., islandfront cottages , island hop nido hostel, joaquinns bed and breakfast, jurias garden hotel, karuna villas, la casa teresa tourist inn, lagen island resort , las cabanas, last frontier beach resort, laulea hostel, layang layang home inn, lihim resort, lio villas resort inc. , love vega hometel, lolo oyong bed and breakfast, mahogany resort, maligaya beach bungalows, mananquil travel lodge, mansion buenavista, maremegmeg beach club, marikit pensionne, marygold beachfront inn, matinloc resort, milan grace inn, miniloc island resort, moon beach villas, moringa el nido philippines inc., morning walsh resort, muatala hotel, nacpan beach glamping, nay aster pension, nido viewdeck cottages, novies tourist inn, pandan villas, pangulasian island resort and spa , panorama resort, ricgem place, rock view lodge, rodriguez lodge, rosannas pension, rovic’s pension house, rovic’s tourist hotel, sanse boutique hotel, sea cocoon hotel, seaslugs traveler’s inn, seatopia beach cottages, sheryl may inn, spin designer hostel, stunning republic beach resort, telesfora beach cottage, terra sancta hotel, villa del vincejos, weekends el nido beach resort, list of dot accredited establishments, (below list as of november 26, 2021), travel and tours agencies, anang travel & tours, ape tour services , aqua island tours , beachfront travel and tours , bellitta tours , big horn travel & tours, buddy let’s go travel & tours , buhay isla ecotour el nido, cadlao travel & tours, caera travel and tour , cashem travel & tours, devayn’s travel & tours, discover el nido travel & tours  , dolarog travel & tours, elbyahe’s travel and tours , el nido bay travel & tours, el nido boutique art café inc.  , el swift travel and tours , exoticloops motorcycle tours, gabreiel travel and tours , go paradise travel & tour , golden monkey travel & tours  , hannah travel & tours, haqqy life travel & tour , hayahay travel & tours, helloen boat tour services, isla paraiso travel & tour , jhannas travel & tours , kapupuruan travel & tours  , keeloma island camp booking office, klienkris travel & tour , krischana travel & tour , kulafo travel & tours, leatherback travel & cruise, life simple pleasure travel & tours  , lihim travel & tours, mercurio travel & tours, nativ exploration travel & tours, palss travel & tours , philippine travel a la carte inc., philippine island cruise corp (elnido yachting club), ricgem travel & tours, rovic’s travel & tours, rr travel and tour , spider travel & tour , tao lost boys, inc. el nido, tarawis travel & tours , tropical paradise travel & tours, umi travel & tours , 1. el dive scuba diving and equipment rental , 2. palawan divers , recreational activities, 1. el nido via ferrata nature interpretation and eco tourism adventure trail, restaurants, 1. beach shack resto bar  , 2. bella vita refreshment , 3. blue iguana bar , 4. cafe athena greek taverna inc. , 5. d factory home made ice cream  , 6. district bar and kitchen , 7. el nido boutique art café inc. , 8. fat choy beach bar and restaurant , 9. garlic and mint restaurant, 10. globy travelling chef , 11. gusto gelato, 12. kitchen bar coffee hub , 13. lassiette ice cream shop , 14. manille beach bar , 15. maxana grill and resto bar  , 16. nesting table restaurant , 17. nido grill , 18. sausage with benefits , 19. squidos restaurant, 20. sunmai beach bar and restaurant, 21. the pangolin cocktail bar  , 22. trattoria altrove , 23. tuko resto bar , massage and spa center, 1. go relax massage & spa, souvenir shop, 1. el nido boutique art café inc. , 2. fisheye the shop , 3. jpmz arts and craft trading, 4. paradise corner stone , sports and gyms, 1. madness mixed martial arts gym, 2. peak corner gym , kayak rental, 1. lagoons kayak and ecoboats rental, stay informed, you might also like, no comments:.

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Palawan Travel Requirements

• Post author: Team TPG
• Post category: Travel Guide
• Post comments: 1 Comment
• Post last modified: February 14, 2024

The province of Palawan is now fully open. There are NO requirements to visit the province!

The province of Palawan has already reopened to domestic tourists arriving from areas under Alert Levels 1-4 as well as GCQ and MGCQ areas. The travel requirements are pretty much the same at all entry points: Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Busuanga (Coron). Once you are already in Palawan, you only need a negative antigen test result if you plan to explore other areas outside of your point of entry.

El Nido Travel Requirements

These are the travel requirements for tourists coming from outside Palawan. Please take note that El Nido only accepts guests from Alert Levels 1-4. If you are over 65 or have comorbidities, you must be fully vaccinated to be allowed to enter El Nido .

• Vaccination card / Vaccine Certificate (Negative RT-PCR for unvaxxed)
• Hotel Booking/Reservation in a DOT-Accredited Hotel
• S-Pass Travel https://s-pass.ph/ – now unrestricted so you only need to upload your ID. Travel requirements will be checked prior to boarding and upon arrival in El Nido.

If you fly to Puerto Princesa, your travel requirements will be checked at the airport upon check in. You can then take a van or bus to El Nido from Puerto Princesa.

For more information and other inquiries, please contact El Nido Tourism at 0919 002 1339 or at 0906 449 0282

Coron/Busuanga/Linapacan/Culion Travel Requirements

TOURIST FULLY VACCINATED (12 years old and above) -Vaccination Card -Valid ID -Proof of Bookings to DOT Accredited Accommodation [See the list of DOT-accredited Hotels ]

TOURISTS PARTIALLY OR UNVACCINATED INDIVIDUALS (12 years old and above) -RT PCR negative test done at the DOH license laboratory taken 72 hrs prior to boarding/travel -Valid ID -Proof of Bookings to DOT Accredited Accommodation [See the list of DOT-accredited Hotels ]

CHILDREN 5 YEARS OLD TO 11 YEARS OLD TRAVELING TO CORON, PALAWAN

• If the accompanying legal parents/guardians are vaccinated, COVID-19 tests are NO LONGER REQUIRED -If the accompanying parents or guardians are partially vaccinated or unvaccinated, a NEGATIVE RT-PCR TESTS done by DOH licensed laboratory is needed, taken 72 hrs prior to travel

For more information and other inquiries, please call the Coron Tourism office at 0918-239-7127, 0968-725-4859, 0968-725-4849, 0945-692-5879, or at 0956-2294140

Puerto Princesa Travel Requirements

Puerto Princesa has already opened its doors to domestic tourists beginning 8 December 2021. Currently, it is only open for point-to-point travel so you must book a packaged tour from a DOT-accredited hotel or tour operator. No DIY tour for now.

• Fully vaccinated travelers need to present their vaccination card or VaxCert upon Check-in
• Accommodation from an accredited hotel

Upon arrival at Puerto Princesa Airport, you only need to go through a body temperature check and you’re good to go.

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El Nido Travel Guide with Itinerary and Budget (2024)

• Post author By Project Gora
• Post date January 8, 2024

Planning a trip to El Nido, Palawan? This El Nido Travel Guide will help you plan and also give you an idea about the expenses you might expect for your visit. This isn’t a long guide so please do check it out until the end. I promise I only included the essentials. Enjoy!

Consistently voted as one of the “Most Beautiful Islands in the World”, El Nido is everyone’s dream island destination. Adorned with imposing limestone cliffs so characteristic of Palawan, it boasts incredible biodiversity both above and below the surface.

I first travelled to El Nido in 2013 went it wasn’t that known among foreign and local tourists. Since then, it became one of the most popular islands in the Philippines . It became too touristy that I wasn’t able to recognize the once laid-back town when I came back. The ugly face of tourism boom welcomed me. Fortunately, it isn’t representative of El Nido as a whole.

Table of Contents

How to get to El Nido

How to get around el nido, where to book an island-hopping tour, where to stay in el nido, where to eat in el nido, el nido travel guide: sample 4d/3n itinerary and budget, from manila to puerto prinsesa or el nido.

The most popular way to get to El Nido is by taking a plane. From Manila, it’s about an hour flight to Puerto Princesa International Airport , Palawan’s main airport. From there, take a shared van to El Nido (travel time is 3-4 hours and one way fare is from $10 or 600 pesos). Alternatively, you may take a direct flight from Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 4 to Lio Airport . Air Swift operates daily flights from Manila and fares vary depending on the season. Expensive, yes, but this is the fastest way to get to El Nido. 

Tip: If you decide to take the Puerto Prinsesa route, get the earliest flight from Manila so you’ll get to El Nido before lunch time. Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines fly to Puerto Prinsesa daily. There are van transfers from Puerto Prinsesa to El Nido as early

From Coron to El Nido

I know travelling to a new place can be nerve-wracking and, micro-managing the trip is inevitable. If you want to pre-book your ticket for a fast ferry from El Nido to Coron or vice versa, then Bookaway.com is a great option for you. The booking process in this app/website is quite simple. You just have to select the departure/arrival points and travel date, and it will give you various transportation options – from bus, van, flight, car, taxi and ferry.

Note: Fares in their website are a little higher compared to getting tickets directly. However, if you love the convenience of doing basically everything online, then this is a good alternative.

Although there aren’t many transportation options in El Nido, you can absolutely get by by renting a motorcycle. The roads are in great condition except the roads leading to Nacpan Beach. For less than $10 (500 pesos) per day, you can rent a motorcycle. Gas is only a few dollars which can already last for a day of adventure. Another option is by taking a tricycle, which costs less than $1 (50 pesos) per ride depending on the distance. 

There are 4 main island hopping tours – A, B, C, and D. Having tried all island tours, I recommend that you start with “Tour A” and “Tour C” as these two routes include the best islands and lagoons. 

• El Nido Tour A ($21.50 / 1,200 pesos): Small Lagoon or Big Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Payong-payong, Secret Lagoon and Seven Commando Beach
• El Nido Tour B ($23 / 1,300 pesos): Pinagbuyutan Island, Cudugnon Cave, Cathedral Cave, Snake Island, and Entalula Island
• El Nido Tour C ($25 / 1,400 pesos): Secret Beach, Hidden Beach,  Matinloc Shrine, Helicopter Island, and Tapiutan Island
• El Nido Tour D ($21.50 / 1,200 pesos): Small Lagoon, Natnat Beach, Cadlao Lagoon, Pasandigan Cove, and Paradise Beach
• Small Group Island-hopping Catamaran Tour
• Small Group Island-hopping Speedboat Tour

There are numerous accommodation options in El Nido, from small guesthouses to luxury resorts. Whatever your budget is, there will surely be somewhere that will fit your needs. If you are looking for a place right in the center, then choose the seaside backpacker street (main town or Poblacion). More accommodation options are located in Calle Real, located just on the opposite side of the main street. If you want to stay somewhere off-the-beaten, then Nacpan Beach is a great choice.

Here are some of the best places to stay in El Nido, based on TripAdvisor reviews:

• Sea Cocoon Hotel – a mid-scale hotel located just a few minute walk from the beach
• Spin Designer Hostel – one of the most Instgrammable hostels in Palawan
• Mad Monkey Hostel – a budget hostel along Nacpan Beach
• Nacpan Beach Glamping – an Instagrammable glamping site located in the palm tree–filled property in Nacpan Beach
• El Nido Resorts Lagen Island – a luxury island resort located in Lagen Island
• El Nido Resorts Miniloc Island – a luxury island resort surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and a vibrant coral reef system in Miniloc Island
• El Nido Resorts Pangulasian Island – an eco-luxury island resort hidden in Bacuit Bay
• Qi Palawan – a Boutique resort set in the undiscovered area of Sitio Palabuayan

Years ago, El Nido is not known for its food scene. If anything, it is more known for just a couple of great restaurants like Altrove. When I came back, I learned that the bars and restaurants are thriving and that more and more specialty eats can be found here. I splurged on food during our trip and I have no regrets!

Here are some of the restaurants I was able to try and WILL recommend:

• The Nesting Table – I loved the cozy vibe of this restaurant and their emphasis on locally sourced ingredients.
• Taste El Nido – The Vegan Cafe PH – I’m not vegan, but I definitely enjoyed my meals here. Their eggplant lasagna, mac and cheese, COFFEE (legit coffee) and smoothie bowls (smooth red and cool blue) were both nutritious and packed with flavor.
• THE CAVERN Pod Hotel & Specialty Cafe – This cafe’s unique ambiance and selection of coffee, pastries, and light meals made it the perfect spot to unwind and relax after a long day of exploring El Nido.
• Bella Vita El Nido – Italian food lovers won’t want to miss Bella Vita. Their wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta dishes were both delicious and authentic.
• Altrove – I loved that Altrove’s menu included a variety of dishes from all over the world. It was a great spot to try something new and the food was always top-notch.
• Big Bad Thai Bistro & Bar – I’m a big fan of Thai food, and Big Bad Thai did not disappoint. Their authentic dishes such as Tom Yum and Pad Thai were packed with flavors and very filling.
• Happiness Beach Bar – This beachfront bar and restaurant was the perfect spot to grab a cocktail and watch the sunset. Highly recommend their Shakshuka, Pita Falafel, Amaretto Sour, and Happiness Salad.
• Ashoka – Authentic Indian Cuisine – As an Indian food fan, I was thrilled to find Ashoka. Their Chicken Tikka Masala and Garlic and Cheese Naan were made with the freshest ingredients and always hit the spot.
• Gusto Gelato + Bistro – After a hot day of exploring, I loved grabbing a refreshing scoop of gelato from Gusto Gelato. They had a wide range of flavors, as well as light bites and sandwiches. I personally liked their Eggs Benedict and Affogato.
• Osaka Castle El Nido Sushi & Ramen – Highly recommended for you Japanese food lovers! Their spicy salmon poke bowl, Osaka original Takoyaki and ramen were both delicious and filling.

Travel to El Nido (Day 1)

• Earliest Flight from Manila to Puerto Princesa
• Van from Puerto Princesa Airport to El Nido – $10 (600 pesos)
• Tricycle from Van Terminal to hotel – $1 (50 pesos)
• Check-in to your chosen accommodation – $50 per night (9,000 pesos good 2 for 3 nights) *estimated accommodation costs only
• Lunch at El Nido Town Beach
• Tricycle to Las Cabanas Beach – $1 (50 pesos)
• Sunset and dinner at Las Cabanas Beach

El Nido Island Hopping Tour (Day 2)

• Breakfast (book a hotel with free breakfast)
• Pay environmental fee at the beach – $4 (200 pesos)
• Tour A : Small Lagoon or Big Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Payong-payong, Secret Lagoon and Seven Commando Beach – $21.50 (1,200 pesos)
• Back to accommodation

El Nido Island Hopping Tour (Day 3)

• Tour C : Secret Beach, Hidden Beach,  Matinloc Shrine, Helicopter Island, and Tapiutan Island – $25 (1,400 pesos)

Back to Puerto Princesa (Day 4)

• Rent a motorcycle or charter a tricycle to Nacpan Beach – $10-$20 (500 pesos per motorcyle or 1,200 pesos for tricycle charter)
• Pay environmental fee – $1 (50 pesos)
• Lunch and check out from accommodation
• Take a tricycle to terminal $1 (50 pesos)
• Travel from El Nido to Puerto Princesa – $10 (600 pesos)
• Dinner in the city
• Take a tricycle to Puerto Princesa Airport – $1 (50 pesos)
• Flight from Puerto Princesa to Manila (best to get a later flight so you can still explore El Nido before making your way back to Puerto Prinsesa)

If you follow this El Nido Travel Guide, budget around 10,000-15,000 pesos ( $180-270 ) per person . If you have more time to spare, you can certainly do island-hopping for 3 days to maximize your stay and see more of El Nido’s best attractions!

Disclaimer:  This El Nido Travel Guide budget can be achieved if you have at least one travel companion. Only the basic expenses will be included in the total calculation (tours and entrance fees, accommodation, transportation and transfers) Other personal expenses such as airfare, food, alcohol, souvenirs, shopping, and the likes are not included. Also, please note cost fluctuate depending on season. Information was up to date at the time of writing.

Enjoying the trip so far? Continue your adventure in Palawan!

After an awesome trip in El Nido, continue your journey to Coron and discover the best diving sites in the Philippines. The trip from El Nido to Coron presents an incredible opportunity to explore more of Palawan’s paradise. Alternatively, discover some of Palawan’s off-the-beaten destinations like Port Barton , San Vicente or Balabac.

That’s it my dear readers! I hope this El Nido Travel Guide will help your trip planning. Feel free to leave a comment below, send a DM on my Instagram or message me on Facebook if you have questions, comments or suggestions! 

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By Project Gora

Hey there! My name is Milet Miranda, and I'm a full-time corporate employee during weekdays and a traveler during weekends (and holidays...you get the picture). I'm a foodie at heart and I love joining food tours. When I'm not traveling, you'll find me walking my dogs or biking around my neighborhood.

3 Day El Nido Itinerary [2022 Guide + Budget]

December 30, 2018 | Asia by Melissa Hogan | el nido • palawan • Philippines | 1 Comment

El Nido, found on the northernmost tip of mainland Palawan in the Philippines is home to gorgeous islands, white-sand beaches, and lagoons. It’s the jewel in the crown of the island once voted most beautiful in the world. Whether you like snorkeling, boating, or beach bumming, this little town will make the perfect homebase during your visit.

Traveling to El Nido for the first time? This detailed El Nido itinerary and travel guide will make it easy for you to plan a trip, save money, and maximize your time.

Table of Contents

How to Get to El Nido

Day 1 – island hopping, nagkalit-kalit waterfall, nacpan beach, makinit hot springs, mangrove ecopark and las cabanas beach, 3 day el nido budget, book your trip to philippines, don't miss: philippines activities, related posts.

If you’re visiting internationally, you’ll most likely land in Manila. My suggestion: don’t linger longer than you need to – just use Manila as a travel hub. I recommend staying at Go Hotels Airport Road if you need an overnight stay. It’s affordable, new, and clean. They’ll call you an Uber to get you back to the airport the next day.

You can fly directly into El Nido from Manila in about an hour on daily flights operated by AirSWIFT . This is the easiest, fastest, and most convenient way to get to El Nido from Manila, which of course means it’s also the most expensive. Once you land, a 15 minute tricycle ride will get you and your luggage into the town center.

If you want to save some money and have the time, you can instead fly into Puerto Princesa further south in Palawan and then take a bus or shuttle van to El Nido. The flight itself is about 90 minutes and there are multiple daily flights operated by Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and AirAsia. The bus/shuttle ride north typically takes about 6 hours so you’ll need to set aside a whole day for the journey from Manila. This is the cheapest, and also most popular, way to get to El Nido.

Now that you’re there, how will you spend your time?

One thing I learned in El Nido is that you need to be flexible with your plans. When an activity involves water, it may get cancelled. If you have the time, set aside two days for island hopping. It’s what El Nido is famous for and for good reason. The beaches are filled with white sugar sand and turquoise water, the snorkeling is superb, and the cliffs are astounding. If you only do one thing in El Nido, make it an island hopping day trip.

There are four tour routes around the islands and every tour operator has the same options at the same price: Tours A-D with A and C being the most popular. In fact, you’ll have a hard time even trying to book Tour B or D. You can book in advance online, through your hotel, or through offices in town but you won’t know for sure which tours are going ahead until the morning of. The coast guard makes the decision each morning on which, if any, routes are good to go because of sea conditions. Given this, you’ll need to be flexible with your schedule. Have a backup plan if tours get cancelled – motorbike rentals go quick on those days.

No matter which island hopping tour you pick, you’ll be back in town before sunset. Head back to your hotel and clean off the day’s sweat, salt water, and sunscreen before heading out to watch the sunset and grab some dinner:  Altrove  for pizza, Artcafe for light fare, or Maa’s Grill for Filipino food.

Day 2 – Hike, Waterfall, Beach

For a change of pace, spend your next day exploring by land. You can either book a tour, hire a tricycle driver, or rent a motorbike and drive yourself but no visit to El Nido is complete without a trip to Nacpan Beach. I recommend driving yourself as it’s faster and cheaper but if you’d rather, you can find someone to drive you out, wait, and drive you back.

Start your morning off with an early hike up Taraw Peak right in El Nido town. It’s a strenuous, steep, hour long climb up a karst formation but you’ll be rewarded with an amazing view of El Nido . You can ask around and hire a local to act as a guide for about P1000. This can be a potentially dangerous climb so use your best discretion. If you’d rather skip, just sleep in a little and have a nice leisurely breakfast.

About 30 minutes north of El Nido make your first stop at the Nagkalit-kalit Waterfall . It’s a 45-min hike through the jungle to get to the waterfall but the path is well trod so it’s a relatively easy walk. The trail is well marked and fairly easy to follow but I’d still recommend hiring a local guide since there’s one fork where you could get lost and they’ll watch your things while you swim. I also recommend wearing a pair of water shoes since you’ll make eight stream crossings in each direction. Swimming in the cool water at the base of the falls is your reward at the end of the trail. There are no facilities there’s so you’ll likely make the hike back in your wet swimsuit. It’ll help keep you cool.

After the waterfall, it’s onwards to the beach! It takes about another 30 minutes to get there and most of the way is over dirt road which can get pretty slow and bumpy in a tricycle. You’ll pay a 100 peso entrance fee but it’s worth it to get to enjoy the 4km long white beach. Nacpan Beach has been called the most beautiful beach in the world and I can’t really argue. White sand and warm water as far as you can see. If the path is open (it was closed due to legal action when I visited in 2017), head to Calitang Beach in the west end to catch a view of the twin beaches.

Be sure to leave in time to get back to town before sunset. After dinner, take a walk along the beach and stop for a drink in one of the nightlight spots like SAVA , Pukka Bar , or Happiness Beach Bar (they have swings!). Or maybe chill out in my favourite spot, Rooftop , an open air bar where you can choose to hang out on bar stools, pillow filled couches, or lounge on big floor pillows. As with many places in El Nido, you take your shoes off at the door.

Day 3 – Explore by Motorbike

On your third day in El Nido you may want to take another island hopping tour. But if you want to do something a bit off the beaten path, you can rent a motorbike and explore the region . A standard bike rental goes for 500 pesos/day while an automatic scooter-style will set you back 750. I took my bike for a loop around the northern part of El Nido, which seemed to confuse the locals. Instead of taking the turnoff to Nacpan continue on the Taytay-El Nido National Highway, but don’t be fooled… this ain’t no highway. The paved road ends at the turnoff so you’ll be riding on a dirt road until you hit New Ibajay about 12km later. There’s a shop or two along the way if you want some light snacks.

Stop in Sibaltan for lunch and check out the kite surfers if the weather is right. Walk the beach and explore the quiet little village. It may be complete now but I found the paved road would come and go throughout the day so be prepared for a potentially bumpy, dusty ride.

Next, stop at Duli Beach and hang out with the surfers. It’s a 2km long sandy beach and you’ll likely have it mostly to yourself. You’ll need to pay a P50 entrance fee and park your bike a short walk from the beach. It’s a veritable oasis compared to the crowds at Nacpan Beach.

On the way back south to El Nido town, stop at the Makinit Hot Springs, if you can find it. You’ll need to pay close attention to the spot on Google Maps as there’s no sign and the family who act as guides will need to be home for you to visit so it’s a bit of a crap shoot.

If you have time, stop at the Mangrove Ecopark south of El Nido town and take a walk on the elevated walkways through a stand of mangroves. You might even spot some snakes, monkeys, or monitor lizards. This isn’t a well-known spot so you’ll likely have it to yourself. Finish up your day with sunset at Las Cabanas beach.

Three Day Total: P5260-P6460 + accommodations

*The cost of meals varies depending on whether you have Filipino food or Western food and where you eat. I found that meals tended to range in price from a little under P200 to P350 or more for a Western meal. You may save money by getting a hotel or guesthouse that includes breakfast. Beer was around P70 in a restaurant/bar and typically P45 in stores.

*Eco Tourism Development Fee – This is P200 fee is required for all tourists visiting El Nido. It is paid once per person, valid for all tours for a 10 day period. If you’ve already paid the fee, take the receipt with you.

Tips for Visiting El Nido

• Keep a spare power bank charged. Power outages are not uncommon.
• Pack a dry bag – you’ll want to keep your things in it for island hopping trips.
• Bring water shoes.
• Most places only take cash but there are two ATMs in town where you can withdraw money: RCBC ATM and BPI Branch ATM

Book Your Flight

Find a cheap flight by using Expedia . It's one of my favourite search engines because it allows you to search for and compare flights from multiple airlines.

Book Your Accommodations

You can book your hotel with Booking.com as they have the most comprehensive inventory so they are best for booking a hotel. If you want to stay in a vacation rental or cottage in Philippines, use VRBO to find the perfect place for the whole family.

Book Your Car Rental

If you want to travel on your own timeline, be sure to book your car rental with Discover Cars early.

Book Your Travel Insurance

While Philippines is generally a safe country, you never know when something could happen. Be prepared with travel insurance from SafetyWing . Travel insurance has certainly saved my butt before.

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Thanks for linking to my blog! Love your post and can’t wait for the day I get to go back and enjoy such a beautiful place ?

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Hi, I'm Melissa! I'm a web designer and digital marketer by trade, a newbie gardener, a shoe lover and a travel junkie. The travel bug hit me hard in 2012 and, ever since, I've been attempting to make the most of it while still working 9-5.

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El Nido Palawan Travel Guide: Experience Paradise

Who does not want to be in El Nido? El Nido Palawan is for everyone dreaming of paradise. Provided in this El Nido guide are latest information that will make it easier for your to plan your trip to the island. Know the latest travel requirements, information on getting there, accredited accommodation, activities, sample itinerary, budget and more.

Paradise is Here

North of the mainland Palawan is El Nido , a paradise considered by many as one of their dream destinations. With 45 islands and islets that harbor some of the country’s best white sand beaches, hidden lagoons, picturesque cliffs and rich marine life underneath, El Nido is indeed a piece of paradise.

The town is a managed and resource protected area of Palawan, 238 kilometers from Puerto Princesa . Contrary to common notion that El Nido is an expensive destination, the place is in fact, can be explored on a budget. With plenty of budget accommodations lined up on the streets of the town and lots of tour groups offering cheap packages, El Nido is another backpacker’s haven.

Get a tan on numerous white sand islands of Bacuit Bay; climb a cliff; dive to its diverse underwater life; snorkel and feed the tame fishes; sit and relax along the beach; watch the sun set; satisfy your cravings on its array of restaurants… El Nido is for everyone.

Perhaps it is now time to fulfill your dream, or revisit and rekindle the good times in paradise. El Nido is a promise of a perfect getaway. Experience paradise, experience El Nido!

How to Get to El Nido

From manila, caticlan, cebu and clark  by air.

Air Swift has regular flights from Caticlan, Cebu, Clark and Manila to El Nido, and vice versa.

From Manila  By Sea

There are also cargo ship operators that also ferry passengers from Manila to El Nido. Contact the shipping lines for schedule and fare information. Please note that these are smaller cargo ships/hauls that cater specially to cargo but also allow passengers.

Operator: San Nicholas Shipping Lines (M/B Andrea-1, M/V Catalyn-A, M/V Catalyn-C, M/V Catalyn-E, M/V Asuncion-IX, M/V Asuncion-XI) Route: Manila-El Nido-Liminangcong and vice versa Contact Info: (02)-243-4595

Operator: Atienza Shipping Lines (M/V Josilee-II, M/V April Rose, M/V Q-Carrelyn-III) Route: Manila-Coron-El Nido-Liminangcong and vice versa Website : http://www.atienzashippinglines.com Email: [email protected] Telephone No. : (02)-986-3118 and (02)-536-8123

From Puerto Princesa  by Van

Coming from Puerto Princesa, air-conditioned vans to El Nido depart from as early as 7AM to as late as 9PM. Vans depart from Puerto Princesa Airport and from San Jose Terminal. Travel time is approximately 5 to 6 hours and one-way fare is P500.

Van Operators: Daytripper Palawan : +63917-8488755 Lexus Van: +63917-5859612 Fort Wally: +63917-3488078

You can book your bus or van seat from Puerto Princesa to El Nido or vice versa below:

BOOK YOUR BUS/VAN FROM PUERTO PRINCESA TO EL NIDO

Bus from Puerto Pricesa to El Nido Palawan

Cherry and RoRo Buses regularly ply the Puerto Princesa-El Nido route and vice versa. Buses leave San Jose Terminal to El Nido with stop over in Roxas and Taytay from 4AM to 9PM. Fare is P380 for the aircon bus  and P350 for the non-aircon.

Boat from Coron to El Nido Palawan

There are boats to El Nido from Coron daily. Fare is P2200 for foreigners and P1500 for Filipinos. Travel time: approximately 8 hours.

You can book your ferry from Coron to El Nido or vice versa below:

BOOK YOUR FLIGHT/FERRY FROM CORON TO EL NIDO

Where to Stay in El Nido

Accommodation in El Nido ranges from very basic for as low as P500 per room to high-end resorts that go by the thousands.

If you prefer more adventure, just pitch a tent or a a hammock in one of the islands in Bacuit Bay 🙂

For the list of DOT Accredited Hotels, Travel Agency and Establishments: Click HERE

Top-Rated High End El Nido Resorts

Top-rated mid-range resorts and hotels in el nido palawan, top-rated budget resorts and hotels in el nido palawan.

What to Do in El Nido

• Island Hopping: Island Hopping in Bacuit Bay is a must and touring these islands are quite easy because the packaged tours are organized into common itineraries known to all organizers. The rates are standard as set by the local government but if you are good in haggling, you can lower it down.
• A Tour: Small and Big Lagoons of Miniloc Island, Payong-Payong Beach, Shimizu Island and Seven Commandos – P1,200/person
• B Tour: Pangulasian Island, Snake Island, Codugnon Cave, Cathedral Cave and Pinagbuyutan Island – P1,300/person
• C Tour: Hidden Beach, Secret Beach, Star Beach, Matinloc Shrine and Helicopter Island – P1,400/person
• D Tour: Cadlao Lagoon, Pasandigan Beach, Bukal Beach, Paradise Beach and Natnat Beach – P1,200/person
• E Tour (Inland Tour): Nacpan and Calitang Beaches, Makinit Hotspring, Nagkalit-kalit Waterfalls – P1,200/person
• Scuba Diving: The average cost for a three-dive package is P3,600 per person inclusive of gear and equipments, lunch, DM, boat and marine conservation fee. Here are some of the dive shops in El Nido:
• Palawan Divers Contact No: +63921-6205469 or +63908-3306778 Email Address: [email protected] / [email protected] Website: www.palawan-divers.org
• El Nido Marine Club Contact No: +63916-6682748 or +63928-3834244 Email Address: [email protected] Website: www.elnidomarineclub.com
• Sea Dog Divers Contact No: +63916-7776917 Email Address: [email protected] Website: www.seadogdivingpalawan.com
• Deep Blue Dive Seafari Contact No: +63915-8921763 or +63916-7776917 Email Address: [email protected] Website: www. deepblueseafari.com
• Free diving
• Cliff Climbing
• Kayaking/Kayak Island Trip
• Wind Surfing
• Beach Bumming/Camping
• Watch the beautiful sunset in Bacuit Bay or Corong Corong Bay
• Biking/motorbike tour to Makinit Hot Spring and other villages nearby
• Hike to Nagkalit-kalit Falls
• Explore the historical Ille Cave
• See the beautiful twin beaches of Nacpan and Calitang
• Visit Taytay, Roxas, Coron and Puerto Princesa

• Electricity runs from 2PM to 6AM only
• Bring cash, there is an ATM in town but is usually runs out of cash
• Unlike Coron that charges entrance fees to almost every spot, El Nido implemented a single payment of  “Eco-Tourism Development Fee” for only P200/person for each visit of up to ten (10) days. This gives access to almost all public tourist sites in El Nido and Bacuit Bay
• If your entry and exit point to El Nido is Puerto Princesa, it is advised to reserve your seat in advance, call the numbers above
• Go to Bacuit Bay before sun down for the best view of sunset
• Touring El Nido can be done on a budget. Try Lagoon Tours of Sir Harvey Templado (+639263049680), they offer cheap package tours complete with meals, and they cooked real good foods 🙂

Sample Itinerary (4D/3N via Puerto Princesa)

Estimated Budget (Airfare excluded): P6000-P6500

Day 1: En Route to El Nido Palawan

0900H-1000H: Manila to Puerto Princesa 1000H-1100H: Puerto Princesa Airport to Fort Wally Terminal(San Jose Terminal)/Breakfast 1100H-1700H: Puerto Princesa to El Nido 1700H-1900H: Hotel check-in/fix stuff/rest 1900H-2100H: Dinner/Night Walk/Lights out

Day 2: Whole Day Island Hopping Tour

0700H-0800H: Call time/Breakfast 0800H-1700H: Tour A: Small and Big Lagoons of Miniloc Island, Payong-Payong Beach, Shimizu Island and Seven Commandos (Lunch included) 1700H-1900H: Back to hotel/fix up/wash up/rest 1900H-2100H: Dinner/Night Walk/Lights out

Day 3: Whole Day Island Hopping Tour

0700H-0800H: Call time/Breakfast 0800H-1700H: Tour C: Hidden Beach, Secret Beach, Star Beach, Matinloc Shrine and Helicopter Island 1700H-1900H: Back to hotel/fix up/wash up/rest 1900H-2100H: Dinner/Night Walk/Lights out

Day 4: Back to Puerto Princesa

0600H-0700H: Call time/Breakfast/Proceed to terminal 0700H-1300H: El Nido to Puerto Princesa 1300H-1500H: Lunch in KaLui 1500H-1530H: To Airport 1530H-1730H: Check-in/Assemble 1730H-1830H: Puerto Princesa to Manila

[…] islands and islets that harbor some of the country’s best white sand beaches, lagoons and cliffs, El Nido is indeed a piece of paradise. Contrary to common notion that El Nido is an expensive destination, […]

[…] is a barangay of El Nido approximately 45 kilometers or one (1) hour drive from the town proper. It is an idyllic and laid […]

[…] best white sand beaches, hidden lagoons, picturesque cliffs and rich marine life underneath, El Nido is indeed a piece of paradise. So book your flight, complete all these El Nido travel requirements […]

[…] Related Link: El Nido Travel Guide […]

I always have a hard time to invite friends, colleagues or even my partner to come and travel with me, so most of the time I go with a travel group accommodating soloists. But it is hard to find a team to travel to El Nido. That made me think to go there alone. Do you think it’s safe and do tours A-E accommodates soloist and will just let me join the other tourists?

We’ve only tried tours A & C due to limited time. But I really enjoyed our stay there and it’s really a great place for snorkeling. Lots of fish and corals especially in Helicopter Island. I hope we can return there and try the other tours.

We have also saved with our tour agency Northern Hope. They arranged for our accommodation with free breakfast and we paid a very affordable price both for the accommodation and island hopping 🙂

http://www.travellingthephilippines.info/part-1-island-hopping-el-nido-palawan/

[…] For more information on El Nido, check out my El Nido Travel Guide. […]

[…] For more information on El Nido, check out Lakwatsero’s Travel Guide to El Nido. […]

Hi, thank you for your tips! Me and my partner aree planning to stay in el nidp for 4D/3N as well. Im so worried that it would cost us too much. Do you think it is better to go there without any hotel reservation? Are there aany public comfort rooms if ever we stay in a tent? And do you think, the cost of everything will drop by november? We are planning to vissit el nido this year frrom nov. 25-28. And i really need your help. Thank you!

How much po tour A and tour C? May nagsabi po sa akin na mas mura kung makikipag haggle kami doon na mismo. June 7 to 10 kmi doon. San po ba the best mag stay. We are 6 in the group. okay na kaya ang fan room?

Tour A is 1200 & C is 1400, though some operators combine both into one tour to save you money. There is a new leaflet in town with deals and promos covering tours, sleeping and eating/drinking out that aims to thank people for visiting El Nido by rewarding them with some great deals to keep the tourists coming. the website is http://www.elnidotouristoffers.com

Mas cheaper po ba ang island hopping kung backpackers lang?

Thanks for sharing! We’re planning to visit Palawan this Summer, and we’re thinking if Go Hotels Palawan is a good choice or should I have some list of Hotels?

ask ko lang same rate lang po ba ng adult ang 5 years old? do you have any suggestion where to stay na may ac but hindi ganun kamahalan.. may 12-16 po ang travel date can you help me to create an itinerary first timer kasi kaming lahat where total of 6 including the 5 years old.. may 12 530am po dating namin sa PPs we’re planning to take the PPUR on our 1st day.. then on the same day wil take the last trip going to el nido.. so technically may 13 mag start yung el nido namin.. anong tour po ba maganda sa tour A B C D? may 15 last trip naman kukunin namin going back to pps 12nn ng may 16 flight namin pa manila..

thanks po in advance

I suggest Tour A & C. The best! kung kaya ng pa time try niyo Nacpan beach, the view is amazing!

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Home » Southeast Asia » Philippines » El Nido

EPIC EL NIDO Itinerary! (2024)

If you want to spend your holiday lazing in the sun on white-sand beaches before jumping into crystal blue waters, then El Nido is the perfect holiday destination!

This Palawan Island municipality is full of things to do and great places from which to set out. Go snorkeling in the rich tropical waters, or tour the archipelago on an exciting day trip! We’ve put together all the very best of what to do in a comprehensive El Nido Itinerary. You can also find out when to visit El Nido, learn insider tips, and where to stay during your trip!

Whether you’re spending two days in El Nido or backpacking the Philippines for two months, you will adore this island paradise! Read on to discover everything you’ll need to know to have a wonderful trip in El Nido.

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Best Time To Visit El Nido

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The best time to travel to El Nido, Philippines is during the dry season. This is the Palawan island’s peak season, and it will get busy, but the weather is so perfect, and there’s so much to do, that the crowds won’t bother you. Depending on how you like to travel, you may also prefer it! 

The driest and coldest time of year is from December to February, making this the best time to go . Why not spend Christmas basking in the sun? 

The rainy season in the Philippines can grow quite stormy and sometimes limit the activities available. If you do choose to travel during this time for the cheap flights and small crowds, be sure to keep an eye out on the weather. It can be just as fun, as long as you pick the right days to go!

El Nido is a small town, and every part of it is beautiful! Still, you can choose between neighborhoods that are perfect for island hopping, partying, lazing on the beach and exploring the lush landscape outside your door! 

Our favorite place to stay in El Nido is Corong-Corong Beach and they should be on every Philippines backpacking itinerary . If you’re staying on an island renowned for its white sand beaches, why not stay right on one of the best! This area is also great for partying because much of the best nightlife takes place right on the beach. 

Step outside your room and into the water, and spend all day lazing on the sand sipping on cocktails. You’ll forget grey skies ever existed! Especially with the El Nido trip itinerary we’ve got planned.

If you want to see more of the local culture, stay in El Nido Town. You’ll have easy access to all the tours from here and most stops on our El Nido itinerary. You can also meet people, local and foreign, and find fantastic Philippines food! The accommodation in the town itself is also more budget-friendly, so broke backpackers can still afford to explore the famously beautiful area without breaking the bank!

Check out this post for more advice on where to stay in El Nido!

Best Hostel in El Nido – Outpost Beach Hostel

With a lively, social atmosphere and a fantastic location right on Corong-Corong beach, we cannot picture a better budget option! You’ll meet new people, have a rave of a time, and spend all the time on the beach or island hopping. The rooms are lovely, and you can relax in the lounge or the in-house restaurant! 

If you prefer to stay in hostels, this is our guide to the best hostels in El Nido .

Best Airbnb in El Nido – Magestic Hut In The Jungle

You cannot find a better experience in the Philippines staying here. You get to stay in private hut!

This Airbnb has the number one view we have seen on the site, and it doesn’t end there. The owners are totally switched on about saving energy and using the resources mother nature gave us.

They even teach you about the permaculture, let you pick from the garden, and show you just how their solar panel system works in the tropics. And most of all, the place is geared towards travelers coming through, so they made the ideal hangout location on site.

Just sip on some coconuts or have a San Miguel while you meet new people staying nearby or on the location. As for location, there’s nothing better than having the option to go hiking in your backyard, but if you are looking for some social life there are some awesome coffee shops within walking distance with the choice of neat little cafes that will definitely have halo halo, – a must-try local dessert!

Best Budget Hotel in El Nido – Cuna Hotel

La Cuna has bright, spacious rooms, comfortable beds, and terrific staff. It is El Nido’s best budget hotel, with a great pool and plenty of amenities. Dine and drink in your room or at the hotel bar or restaurant, and relax in the peaceful, in-town hotel. 

Best Luxury Hotel in El Nido –  Balai Adlao

This charming hotel is situated in the center of El Nido. A few minutes walk from everything you could want, the hotel is a perfect home base! Enjoy a buffet breakfast, a private balcony, and great services. The hotel is ideal for solo travelers and couples, and it’s the best place to stay in El Nido in three days! 

El Nido is such a small town that you certainly don’t need to catch public transport! You can comfortably walk everywhere, or even rent a bicycle and explore the greater El Nido area by bike! Most hotels rent out bicycles, which means they are also a very convenient option.

If you’re spending more than three days in El Nido, you may want to explore beyond the island! We’ve found some great tours for that, but catching public transport and exploring on your own is also a great option. While you cannot discover many of the little islands and snorkeling coves on your own, you can visit the other areas on Palawan island .

The island is massive, and it can take almost a day to cross it by bus or van, so choose your destinations wisely! The vans are like large taxis, and can take some time filling up. They will usually stay in one town until they are up to capacity, so if you choose to travel this way, hop into one that looks pretty full!

The bus is the cheapest and second most popular option for inter-town travel on Palawan. They travel every one to two hours, so you’ll never have to wait too long!

Las Cabanas Beach | Big Lagoon | Small Lagoon | Zipline | Nagkalit-kalit Waterfalls | Full Moon Party

Day one in El Nido combines all of the island town’s best activities: swimming, tanning, and beach parties! If you’re wondering what to do in El Nido, look no further! 

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Swim and Tan on Las Cabanas Beach

• Why it’s awesome: Pristine beaches and gorgeous coastal waters.
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Get breakfast at the casual Las Cabanas Beach Resort.

One of the main reasons we love to visit El Nido is for the absurdly beautiful beaches! That means they have to be first on the list. Step out of your hotel and onto the sand or make the short walk from town. 

The waters are warm and clear and the scene picturesque. Take a dip in the water before relaxing on the sand or on a lounger! You can spend all day here, but since there’s so much to do, we recommend a few hours to rejuvenate and shed all your stress. Afterward, you will move onto the rest of the thrilling day’s activities on your El Nido itinerary!

Most beaches have bars and cafes lining a section of them and loungers available. So, you can enjoy a mojito or a beer while you catch that tan.

Be sure to apply a lot of sunscreen, as the sun here is very hot. You will also want waterproof so that you can dive into the water whenever you feel a little warm! For more advice on what to bring to El Nido, check out our Philippines packing list !

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Kayak in the Big Lagoon

• Why it’s awesome: Limestone cliffs and crystal make this one of the most gorgeous stops.
• Cost: A kayak costs USD $27 for the day, or USD $8 per hour
• Food nearby: Pack a picnic- the Big Lagoon is left untouched by restaurants and eateries!

Rent a kayak or join a tour of El Nido’s Big Lagoon! The lagoon is massive and impressive, with limestone cliffs rising up on every side, and clear water revealing equally interesting formations below the water!

You can spend hours here exploring nooks and crannies and jumping off your boat into the ocean. There’s both deep and shallow water, so people of all ages and swimming abilities will be comfortable. 

You can also grab a snorkel in El Nido to better explore the Lagoon below the water. As soon as you’re tired, you can climb back into your kayak and paddle over to the next exciting area!

This is one of the most picturesque natural places in the world, so don’t forget your best travel camera ! You can also hire a local to row for you so that you can find the best parts of the giant lagoon easily and save all your strength for swimming.

Insider Tip: There are spiny sea urchins in much of the lagoon, so be sure to stick to the deeper areas, or find a shallow spot that’s clear of them!  

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Explore the Small Lagoon

• Why it’s awesome: The Small Lagoon is so beautiful and very close to El Nido town.
• Cost: Like the Big Lagoon, a kayak costs USD $27 for the day, or USD $8 per hour.
• Food nearby: Pack a picnic to enjoy, because there are no restaurants around!

This local paradise is one of the best El Nido attractions! Rent a kayak or go with your tour group to spend hours in this little lagoon. The visibility is superb, and the crystal waters stay pristine no matter the weather. This makes it a great place to visit during those rainy months!

The water is warm and much of the lagoon is shallower than the other snorkeling spots. There are sometimes small jellies, which are wonderful to see but will stop you from swimming! They are so ephemeral and sweet though, you won’t be too bothered!

The views are amazing, and there’s so much to see and admire. It gets quite crowded during peak season. That’s why we’ve made it a later stop for the day so that you miss both the hottest time of the day (and the busiest)!

Like its larger partner, this lagoon has plenty of great cliff jumping spots and gorgeous limestone formations, as well as a few caves to explore.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Zipline

• Why it’s awesome: Combines adrenaline-pumping fun and great views.
• Cost: USD $10 one way.
• Food nearby: Grab a snack at The Beach Shack!

Get your adrenaline pumping on a zipline! The El Nido zipline stretches across the beach and the bay to the nearby Snake Island. At 750m long, it’s such a great way to see the sights as you fly along!

Once you’re on Snake Island, why not stay awhile and do some snorkeling. You can then walk back to the mainland at low tide, or swim back to shore! It’s an easy swim being so close, but if you’d prefer, you can also be pulled back up the zipline, for an additional USD $8.

The walk up to the zipline platform is steep, but only takes 5-10 minutes, so it’s suitable for everyone. You can also reach it by scooter or tricycle if you’re renting one for the day!

Your departure is Las Cabanas Beach, which is a great place to return for a beer and a bit of relaxing after the activity!

Insider Tip: Wear walking shoes rather than slip slops. The short trek up is steep and rocky.

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Nagkalit-kalit Waterfalls

• Why it’s awesome: It’s a beautiful waterfall and a lovely walk.
• Food nearby: Pack a picnic to enjoy at the falls.

Leave the beach behind and explore deeper into Palawan island! We love this El Nido itinerary stop not only for the waterfall but for the walk there. It’s a light hike. You’ll stroll through exotic vegetation and spot some creatures before coming up onto the impressive waterfall. You’ll also be walking through the river several times, so prepare to get a little wet!

You can swim in the small pool, and take plenty of photos (it’s a great Instagram opportunity). If the water flow isn’t too heavy, swim under the waterfall! The falling water feels like a massage on your shoulders and head.

The hike is a casual forty minute walk through the wilderness. This is the only stop on your itinerary for El Nido that goes deep into the jungle, so enjoy the adventure! You can hire a guide to avoid getting lost or throw caution to the wind and explore alone.

Day 1 / Stop 6 – Full Moon Party

• Why it’s awesome: You can party all night with free-spirited folk.
• Cost: Free entrance!
• Food nearby: Find local food and drinks at Marimegmeg Beach Bar.

If you book your trip to El Nido during the full moon, you’re in great luck! If you haven’t booked your flights yet, see if you can catch this monthly event. The full moon parties are legendary, and it’s one of the best things to do in El Nido!

Don your brightest clothes, get a little luminescent paint and glitter, and embrace the free-spirited fun! With drinking, dancing, and the opportunity to meet and bond with new people from all over the world, this is guaranteed to be a fantastic night. 

The beach party includes live reggae bands and great DJs who know just how to keep the party going all night. You’ll also see fire dancers and giant bonfires, where you can dance or sit and enjoy the night. 

If you’re not in El Nido, Palawan during full moon, don’t fret. You may not have all the best the island has to offer, but beach parties are a common sight in El Nido, and there’s always something going on!

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Cathedral Caves | Shimizu Island Snorkeling | Vigan Island | Balay Cuyonon Museum | Sibaltan Mangroves | Ille Cave | RoofTop Bar and Boutique

The second day on our two day itinerary in El Nido will take you snorkeling and island hopping, as well as exploring some of the mainland! Set out on a self-led El Nido walking tour and explore all the great sights in and beyond the town and municipality. 

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Cathedral Caves

• Why it’s awesome: The gorgeous soaring rock formations are really impressive.
• Cost: Boat rentals are negotiable, but expect to pay ~ USD $80.
• Food nearby: Boat tours include lunch, but if you’re going yourself, pack a picnic.

On day two of your El Nido itinerary, catch a boat to the gorgeous Cathedral Caves for a natural wonder that competes with Europe’s best cathedrals! The cave is almost hidden to the eye from outside, so you will need a guide. Once you get inside though, the stone ceiling soars up in spires and chutes!

You can’t swim here, but there is so much beauty to marvel at. It’s the perfect stop before you head a little out of El Nido to snorkel, the next activity on our El Nido itinerary! Be sure to bring your camera.

Insider Tip: If you’re only looking for places to swim, skip this stop- it’s absolutely gorgeous, but strong currents and the possibility of sea snakes make it unfit for swimming!

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Go Snorkeling off Shimizu Island

• Why it’s awesome: Shimizu island has some of Palawan’s best snorkeling!
• Cost: Pay an environmental fee of USD $10
• Food nearby: Find something tasty at the vendors who sell fresh-tasting food at the beach.

A must-see on our two-day itinerary in El Nido, Shimizu Beach, has as much to admire under the water as above it! Explore the underwater wonderland, admiring the multicolored fish that make the coral home. 

You’ll find creatures large and small swimming around the otherworldly metropolis. The corals here are still alive and vibrant with color. Swim slowly and see everything you can. Who knows, maybe you’ll even see a cuttlefish or an octopus, changing its color and texture to suit its location?

The island itself is small and charming, and locals have set up small cafes and shops to cater to those that snorkel and swim here. The rocky landscape is also very interesting to explore, and you can jump off the small cliffs into the water (if you find a safe place). Remember to never  walk on coral. Only bring children to this activity that are old enough to respect the coral.

You can spend all day here and want for nothing, whether you’re renting a boat and doing the trip on your own, or joining a tour. One of the best places to visit in El Nido, this lovely island is the perfect place for all ages to explore! 

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Vigan Island

• Why it’s awesome: Explore the little island separated from El Nido by a sandbar.
• Cost: Free access!
• Food nearby: Get lunch at The Nesting Table, just off El Nido’s coast, or find ‘street’ food on the little island.

No trip to El Nido is complete without visiting Vigan Island! Also known as Snake Island, this is one of the top El Nido points of interest. It can be reached by walking along a picturesque sandbar at low tide or swam to at high tide. 

The island’s nickname, thankfully, does not arise from a proliferation of snakes! Rather, it was dubbed that because of the snake-like shape of the sandbar that leads to it. It’s a wonderful place to enjoy the sun and swim in the clear shallow water!

On the walk up to the viewing deck at the island’s highest point, you’ll walk through a lovely Mangrove forest! See if you can spot any of the indigenous monkeys. Remember, if you do spot these beautiful creatures, don’t try to touch them as they are wild!

>It’s a terrifically calming stop on the El Nido itinerary, and very photo-worthy. Just avoid peak times, as it can get very busy!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Balay Cuyonon Museum

• Why it’s awesome: It’s a great opportunity to see how the locals lived.
• Cost: Admission is by donation so you choose how much to pay!
• Food nearby: Get something light and local at Efrena Beach Restaurant in Sibaltan town.

We think it’s always important to learn a little about the local culture and history when you go on holiday! It allows you to appreciate everything you see in a far deeper way and with valuable context.

This small museum shows how Cuyunons lived and how some continue to live, after arriving on the island thousands of years ago! The museum, a traditionally-styled replica of a Cuyonon homestead, is situated right on the beach in the town of Sibaltan. 

It’s an interactive museum, allowing you not only to learn about how the Cuyonons lived but experience it yourself! The museum was established so that local Cuyonons can learn where they come from and maintain an element of their traditions and culture, and so that those touring El Nido can learn more about them as well!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Sibaltan Mangroves

• Why it’s awesome: Beautiful and ethereal, kayaking among the mangroves is amazing!
• Food nearby: You can find some fantastic food at Tangway Resto Gallery.

For a totally different aesthetic, rent a kayak or join a boat trip of the Sibaltan river running between Mangrove plantations . These beautifully bending trees line the riverbank for a kilometer, and they are a really lovely sight! 

You can rent a kayak or two from the friendly locals and explore the river on your own- there’s nothing too dangerous in the waters or surroundings, so a guide is not necessary although you may prefer to have one so that you know just where to go!

This lovely stop is another example of how little El Nido optimizes for tourist attractions and retains a natural, authentic atmosphere. It’s a relief when you grow accustomed to destinations where you can see nothing without forking out some cash!

Day 2 / Stop 6 – Ille Cave

• Why it’s awesome: It’s a network of caves and a museum!
• Cost: Free.
• Food nearby: Enjoy casual local cuisine at the nearby Minnuya Restaurant.

Few people planning a trip to El Nido know about the fascinating Ille Cave! This jacked limestone tower is surrounded by forest and fields and offers some of the most interesting mainland views! 

The site contains so much history that it’s been made into a museum! Many artifacts have been found in the cave, and it was certainly once used for shelter by ancient tribes. You can find many of the artifacts still housed here with displays and descriptions! Archeologists continue to research the area, so there’s new information all the time.

Stroll through the impressive chambers and discover hidden gems! The hike up takes about forty minutes, and it’s challenging and difficult. You can come here with a guide, or you can find it yourself if you’re willing to spend a little more time looking for it! Locals can always point you in the right direction.

Insider Tip: While you’re there, you should definitely make the extra walk up to the top of the mountain. It’s not far and the incredible views are well worth it. But wear hiking shoes, as the terrain is rocky!

Day 2 / Stop 7 – RoofTop Bar and Boutique

• Why it’s awesome: Great vibes, good music and plenty of cocktails.
• Food nearby: The food at the bar itself is amazing and very well priced.

If you’re looking to have some nighttime fun with a laid-back atmosphere, RoopTop is the best bar in town. You can go barefoot, relaxed, and enjoy cocktails and good people without a thought of leaving.

The bar plays reggae and chill dance music. They also serve a great variety of drinks and are known for their perfect, strong Cosmopolitans. Likely to become your go-to place for a few drinks in El Nido, the RoofTop Bar welcomes all! 

If you’re looking to party hard and dance all night, it may not be where you’ll spend all your time. Even then, it’s the perfect first stop.

The three-story bar offers plenty of space to relax, with futons, couches, and floor pillows arranged around tables. The happy hour lasts long and the views are lovely. You really can’t go wrong with this stop on our El Nido Itinerary!

Outpost Beach Hostel

With a lively, social atmosphere and a fantastic location right on Corong-Corong beach, we cannot picture a better budget option!

• Reception (limited hours)
• Airport Transfers

El Nido Yoga Class | El Kusina | Mountain Biking | Canopy Walk | Sailing El Nido’s Ocean

With three days in El Nido, it’s time to experience more of the local culture and lesser-known El Nido landmarks! These activities and attractions are a wonderful way to get to know the locals better and experience more than the average tourist.

Go to an El Nido Yoga Class

• Choose between a morning and evening yoga class so that your day is free.
• Relax and get in touch with your body while challenging it in this beautiful setting.
• Classes are designed for complete beginners to the highest levels!

What better way to relax in paradise than with a yoga class with views over the island and ocean? We love this activity in the itinerary for El Nido because it’s such a different experience to most, and there can be no better place for us to recommend a little yoga! 

If you enjoy regular yoga and have a few flexible skills up your sleeve, you can join one of the more advanced classes. If you’ve never done it before but like the idea of doing some calm exercise to work off those great boozy nights, the beginners classes are fantastic!

You can take the class before or after an island hopping tour or a day spent swimming and enjoying the sun! Our favorite is the evening class, because the only way to improve a well-run paradise-setting yoga class is to throw in a sunset. It will certainly give you a good night’s rest. Of course, it’ll get you loose and limber for the night’s dancing!

There are a few yoga places you can choose between in El Nido. Our favorite is Namaste El Nido – their instructors are professional and good, their different classes are suited to different skill levels, and the view from the yoga rooms is beautiful!

Another great option is the simply named Yoga El Nido. Here the views are even more impressive, and their instructors are also fantastic. This studio, however, is only open from 4:30pm to 6:30pm.

Take a Cooking Class at El Kusina

• Learn how to make delicious Filipino food and learn about their lifestyle.
• Enjoy a few rounds of rum while you cook up a storm!
• Start with a visit to the local market and choose your fresh ingredients.

We always love taking cooking classes while we travel! What better memento to bring home than the ability to cook some of your favorite local dishes! This way the amazing memories can sink in every time you make a little Filipino cuisine.

El Kusina is the oldest running cooking class in El Nido, and depending on when you go, you may find it’s the only one! The experience is fantastic. Nina runs the classes with modern equipment in a simple, traditional setting. She and her partner started the classes to address a lack of tourism activities in the town itself. 

It’s a wonderful way to learn about the workings of Filipino food and cooking practices . You’ll also learn more about the local Filipino culture, and get a new appreciation for the beauty of El Nido!

At El Kusina, you can choose between private sessions and a spot in public ones! Both are brilliant, as you can either meet and have fun with new people, or bond with the group you came with! You’ll learn how to cook five different dishes, including starters, mains, and a pudding. You’ll even get the online cookbook, so you’ll never forget how to make it! The classes take four to five hours, and you can choose to do it in the morning or the evening.

Mountain Biking through the Forest

• Fantastic adventure activity and way to experience El Nido in a different way.
• Rent a bicycle for a couple of hours or for the whole day and explore Palawan.
• You can choose between a bicycle tour or self-led adventure.

If you have any experience with mountain biking , you’ll know how different it is to ordinary road biking and how fantastically fun! Rent a bicycle at one of the rental places dotted around El Nido, or get one at your hostel- most accommodations provide them at a reduced fee!

Palawan has a good amount of mountain trails ideal for mountain biking. If you have an experience, or are at minimum lead by someone with a fair bit of experience, then find a trail map and pick up some bikes! If not, we suggest you join a group. El Nido tours are organized daily, and you can join or create a group. You can also get a tour guide with your bicycle rental and tour Palawan that way!

The best part about exploring Palawan beyond the beaches is that you’ll come across hidden villages nestled among the hills! Cycle among tropical rainforests and spot the creatures that make it home. Then say helo to the locals and see if you can buy a memento. The jungle is pristine and the villages virtually untouched by the outside world. 

You can take it easy and follow trails that tackle only slight uphills. Alternatively, challenge yourself to a day of hard riding and see some of Palawan’s best mountain views!

El Nido Canopy Walk

• A safe way to see the limestone cliffs of El Nido from up high.
• Spectacular and Instagrammable views over the island!
• Can feel physically challenging, but you have time and a great guide.

A fantastic way to see El Nido is from above! Trek the canopy walk to get the best views in El Nido. The walk takes about an hour and includes some steep sections which can be physically challenging but the view from the top is so worth it! Just pace yourself and bring plenty of water. 

Once you’re at the top, you’ll have views all along the canopy. Every moment is worth a photo, so don’t forget your camera! You can also include the dream catcher section, and we think it’s well worth the little extra cost. Here you can stand, bounce, or lie on a network of ropes in the structure of a dream catcher, but what it catches is you! What a dream!

Despite the uphill, this is not a very challenging walk, and experienced hikers may find it a little boring. You can always take the day and hike up well-marked trails to the top of the limestone cliffs. Just keep in mind that it’s safer to have a guide, as the cliffs can be treacherous, and you should only go if you have a full day to dedicate to the activity.

Sailing El Nido’s Ocean

• Beginners can take a course to learn to sail in idyllic conditions off El Nido’s coast.
• You can also join a two day expedition to explore beyond Palawan.
• Watch or join in on weekly Sunday sailing races. There are activities for everyone.

Another fantastic El Nido activity is sailing on a catamaran! This is an absolutely awesome way to experience Palawan’s gorgeous bays. Find secluded beaches all to yourself and watch the turquoise water pass you with a light spray!

You can rent a catamaran for a few hours or for the day and learn to sail on your own. The catamarans are very handy, because their double hull makes even complete beginners tip with difficulty.

You can also take a sailing course for an hour, and learn all the ins and outs of it! You can then go take a well-deserved rest and move onto a swim and tan, or then rent the catamaran and take it out for a spin on your own! If you’re spending the weekend in El Nido, be sure to check out their Sunday sailing fun! It’s a popular activity both for locals and tourists.

For something completely different, go on an overnight sailing-camping trip! No experience is needed, and you’ll spend the day sailing, and the night on a private island. If you don’t like camping, you can also choose to stay at a cottage on Snake Island!

All meals on the trip are included, and you can go with a group of two through twenty! This is such a unique way to experience Palawan. Enjoy the challenge and relax with a laid-back itinerary!

El Nido is considered a very safe place to travel! The island paradise experiences very little violent crimes. Petty theft does occur, and it’s always a good idea to keep your cash and valuables safe and carry as little on you as possible. Most hostels and hotels have lockers available- unless you’re sure yours has one, bring a padlock.

An important safety warning is to avoid drinking tap water. Like on most islands, the water can be unsafe to drink and lead to a very uncomfortable vacation in El Nido, if not hospitalization. Don’t stress, you can buy water at every corner, and most hostels provide it for purchase or for free!

Keep in mind that ATMs are hard to find in the island town. It’s better to come prepared with cash in the local currency. You will also find that bartering lowers the prices of many products, as locals are trying to make some extra money from tourists’ ignorance about local prices.

Jellyfish and sea urchins may share parts of the ocean with you when you go. There is also at times broken glass in the sand from inconsiderate tourists. Wear slip slops or rock shoes to ensure you don’t cut your feet! However, if you do get stung , apply vinegar to help with the pain.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for El Nido

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Go beyond a three day itinerary in El Nido, and explore the greater Palawan! These day trips take you to the nearby islands and to some of Palawan’s other great towns.

Island Hopping Tour A Lagoons and Beaches

One of our favorite day trips from El Nido! This is the perfect day out, and you’re back before the nighttime celebrations begin! Spend the day cruising among the islands and jumping off your boat into the warm turquoise waters. 

You’ll have plenty of time to snorkel and spot some fantastic fish and coral reefs. Maybe you’ll even see a turtle lazily gliding by! Island hopping is everyone’s favorite activity in El Nido, Palawan and for good reason. Spend the day experiencing all the best of paradise!

This El Nido tour package includes a barbeque lunch on one of the islands and a very laid-back itinerary. All you need to do is make sure you’re on the boat before it sets off for the next island!

Puerto Princesa Underground River Day Tour

For something totally out of the ordinary, take a tour of the Puerto Princesa Underground River ! The eight-hour trip takes you through the incredible river- the longest navigable underground river in the world!

The tour includes kayaking through the sequence of caves in an otherworldly adventure. You’ll see a unique ecosystem of fauna and flora as you delicately explore. The tour also includes a buffet lunch of Filipino delicacies! 

You will have to make your way to Puerto Princesa City for this tour. The trip takes about four hours, so it’s a good idea to stay in this area for an extra day. You can easily find a bus or taxi to make the trip! 

Puerto Princesa: Half Day City Tour

While you’re in Puerto Princesa, catch a tour to see all the best of the charming coastal city! Join a walking tour that will take you to all the city’s highlights and attractions, or you can do a driven tour to tick more off and enjoy a rest.

Tours stop at the lovely Roman Catholic Cathedral, the weaving centre where you can learn about traditional Filipino weaving practices, and the World War II fort! You’ll also get to taste local delicacies, like hopia ! 

With an enthusiastic local guide, this is the perfect way to spend the day before returning to El Nido. 

Coron: Town Tour with Maquinit Hot Spring

Another of the best day trips from El Nido is this town tour! The colorful town of Coron is a beautifully photogenic place to visit. The tour takes you to all its top highlights, and then on to the saltwater hot spring!

Here you can relax with gorgeous views and a pleasantly warm soak. Trek up the 700 step climb to the Mount Tapyas Viewing Deck, where you’ll enjoy unparalleled views over Coron! It’s a beautiful sight, and one you shouldn’t miss while on this side of the island! 

The tours start in Coron, so you’ll have to catch a bus or van to the town. That’s why our next day trips sets out from here too! If you want to stay the night in Coron, read our guide on where to stay in Coron .

Coron: Barracuda Lake, Skeleton Wreck, Twin Lagoon Boat Tour

Explore the thriving life that make an old shipwreck home on this brilliant Palawan tour from Coron. This is another one of our favorite island hopping tours, and includes a  visit to an old wreckage where you can swim among the newly formed corals and imagine what once was.

You’ll have a fantastic local-style buffet for lunch on one of the islands! Stop at some of the areas best snorkeling and swimming areas, and enjoy a day out on the boat.

One of our favorite parts of these island hopping tours is that even the snorkeling masks are included, so you can enjoy the trip without concerning yourself about any of the little details!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their El Nido itinerary.

Why should I visit El Nido?

Because it’s one of the most beautiful places you’ll ever set your eyes on in the entire world! It’s pure vibes!

What is the best thing to do in El Nido during summer?

Summer is all year round but the rainy season does hit hard here. Island hopping is what it’s all about and it’s best in the dry season.

How do you travel around El Nido?

Hop on one of the tricycles, which are a bit like a tuk tuk and are super cheap and a fun way to get around!

What are the most fun things to do in El Nido?

Island hopping of course is the most popular, but you can also explore Ille Cave and kayak through Sibaltan Mangroves.

It may be small, but El Nido, Palawan is an incredible place to visit! There’s so much to do, and there’s a surprising variety of activities to fit into a three day itinerary in El Nido. We’ve put together all the greatest activities and day trips, so that you don’t have to wonder what to do in El Nido!

Palawan is certainly a holiday destination for those looking for an island paradise. This means that there are not hundreds of activities for every kind of traveler, but there’s much more than enough to keep you entertained! Spend time lazing on the perfect sand beaches, snorkeling in the crystal clear water, and exploring the island’s natural beauty and historic culture.

This El Nido itinerary can be used for those spending only one day in El Nido or a whole week! Space out the activities after day two, or fit everything into a weekend. You’re bound to have a brilliant island vacation!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Rhenz Caguioa

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Travel Blog

2024 EL NIDO PALAWAN DIY TRAVEL GUIDE

I was welcomed by an extremely stunning sunset the moment I set foot in El Nido Palawan for the first time. The sky gradually turned into a gorgeous pastel palette. A few settled at the beach, too – in awe of the evenfall hues reflecting into the ocean creating an entirely calming mood. The restaurants ashore started to be filled with people who are tired and famished from exploring the best of the islands. I could hear distant chatters and merry laughter. The small waves softly crashed into the shore – a great music to my ear. I took it as El Nido’s way of telling me that I might have gone in there alone but everything’s going to be all right. So, it did.  

Impressive rock and limestone formation, the crystal waters of the lagoons and beaches that come by surprise, fascinating caves, rich marine life, beaches with grainy to powdery cream to white sand, swells and waves good for surfing, hospitable locals – this is what El Nido, Palawan is all about. To date, it has been living up to be among the best islands in the Philippines and the world with its unique and amazing attractions that continuously invite everyone from anywhere around the globe to explore its wonders.  

About El Nido Palawan

El Nido  is a municipality situated at the northern most part of the mainland Palawan. It was once a part of the municipality of Taytay. It is formerly known as Bacuit later renamed into El Nido (Spanish term for The Nest) by the Spaniards when a nest of a particular bird specie used for a special soup that costs a fortune was found in it.

Language Spoken

Though Tagalog and English are widely spoken in the town due to the frequent interaction with the tourists, often times, locals can be heard speaking in Cuyonin – a language of a group of indigenous people who migrated from Cuyo island to El Nido. Apart from Cuyonin, other prominent indigenous groups residing in the islands of Palawan include Tagbanua, Palaw-an, Calamianin and others.

Best Time to Visit

Best time to visit El Nido is from March to May – the sunny season in Philippines. The waves may be rough on rainy season making it impossible to go on an island hopping activity. Swells at Duli Beach during this season, on the other hand, are not good for surfing. Best time to visit El Nido for such activity is during the last two quarters of the year.  

Getting to, Around and Away El Nido Palawan

1.a. From Manila to Puerto Princesa City Local airlines have several flights daily from Manila to Puerto Princesa City.

1.b. From Puerto Princesa City to El Nido Once arrived, you have to travel for 4-5 hours by land to El Nido by bus or by van. The land travel costs Php 600.00. First trip is as at 5:00 AM and the last trip is at 6:00 PM. You may book your land travels at Book-A-Way Travel .

You may also coordinate with your hotel or resort’s management for the pick up and drop off at the airport for a hassle-free transfer.

2. From Manila/ Clark Airport to El Nido Air Swift has daily flights directly to El Nido. This, though, is more expensive than flying from Manila to Puerto Princesa City.  

1. From Manila Atienza Shipping Lines has a vessel that sails once a week for 24 – 26 hours every Thursday night departing from Baseco Port. Fare is at Php 1,700.00.

2. From Coron, Palawan Phimal and Montenegro Shipping lines have fast crafts sailing daily from Coron Port to El Nido PPA at 8:20 AM and 12:00 NN respectively. Fare is around Php 1,800.00 ($35-$36). The trip takes 3 hours.  

You might also want to read: Coron Palawan Travel Guide 2020

Going Around

Going around El Nido is easy as it is quite a small walkable town. Restaurants, bars, ATMs, convenience stores, souvenir shops, tour agencies’ offices, the port and the beach aren’t far from one another.   Apart from the attractions that require island hopping activity, El Nido also has inland points of interest such as Nacpan Beach, Las Cabañas, Water Falls, Duli Beach, Taraw Cliff and Canopy Walk. These can be reached through riding a motorbike or through renting a private van or tricycle.

Mode of Transportation for inland tours and rates:

• Motorbike rental (self drive)  – Php 500.00/ day (excluding the gas)
• Tricycle  – Php 1,500.00 for up to 3 persons
• Van  – Php 3,000.00 up to 10 persons

El Nido Travel Requirements 2023

As of January 2023, the following are the travel requirements in El Nido, Palawan:

For Fully-vaccinated individuals:

• Confirmed hotel/ resort accommodation booking
• Vaccine certification from vaxcert.doh.gov.ph/ , Bureau of Quarantine or your LGU-issued vaccination card
• Roundtrip airline/ferry tickets

For those with incomplete vaccination or no vaccination:

• 72-hours valid negative RT-PCR test result

Things to Do

1. Island Hopping.  The best way to enjoy the attractions in El Nido is through island hopping. Tour operators usually pick the guests up from their hotels at around 8:30 AM to 9:00 AM for this.

2. Swimming and Snorkeling.  Snorkeling gears are usually included in the tour packages.

3. Diving.  There are several agencies near the the port and boat docking area that offer SCUBA diving. The package usually includes the diving gears, dive master, boat transfer and environmental fees.

4. Trekking to Taraw Cliff.  Taraw Cliff features a massive yet impressive limestone formation that can be hiked (actually, it’s more on a rock climbing). Its peak promises a breath taking bird’s eye view of El Nido. Best time to start the trek is at 5:30 AM – 6:00 AM and usually take an hour or two including the ascent and descent. Tour guide is required and the rate is at Php 500.00 usually per head.

5. Chase Waterfalls.  There are few waterfalls in El Nido that can be explored. You can either charter a tricycle or rent a motorbike in going there.

6. Kayaking and Paddle Boarding.  Kayak rental starts at Php 250.00 for the small ones and Php 300.00 for the bigger ones. It is also the best way to explore small and big lagoon.

7. Watch the sunset at the beach.  Best place to enjoy the sunset is at Las Cabanas.

8. Surfing at Duli Beach.  El Nido isn’t just all about beaches and lagoons but also swells good for surfing. Best time to do surfing in Duli Beach is during the last two quarters of the year.

El Nido Palawan Tour Packages by Northern Hope Travel and Tours

Tour a – php 1,200.00.

Small Lagoon Big Lagoon Secret Lagoon Shimizu Island 7 Commando Beach  

Small and Big Lagoon are optional. An environmental fee of Php 200.00 has to be paid on top of Php 1,200.00 and an additional Php 200.00 for reservation.

TOUR B – Php 1,300.00

Snake Island Entalula Beach Pinagbuyutan Island Cudungnon Cave Cathedral Cave  

TOUR C – Php 1,400.00

Matinloc Shrine Secret Beach Hidden Beach Talisay Beach Helicopter Island

TOUR D – Php 1,200.00

Cadlao Lagoon Inat-nat Beach Paradise Beach Bukal Island Pasandigan Beach

Inland Tours

Duli Beach Nacpan Beach Las Cabañas Waterfalls Zip line and Canopy walk  

Contact Details

Website : www.northernhopetours.com Facebook : Northern Hope Tours El Nido, Palawan Globe ( Mobile Phone): +63 927 735 3221 Smart (Mobile Phone): +63 939 902 2216 Smart (Mobile Phone): +63 942 375 2241  

Where To Eat

There are various restaurants and small canteens around where you can choose from. Food price ranges from Php 150.00 – Php 350.00 per head per meal. Among the many restaurants around the vicinity, the following are the frequently visited ones:

1. Altrove Trattoria El Nido  – specializes on pizza and pasta

2. Athena Cafe  – offers Greek food experience to be best enjoyed with the view of the beach

3. Art Cafe  – an Instagram-worthy cafe that offers pasta and music jam every night near the beach

4. Skyline Bar and Restaurant  – quite a spot to cool down and chill out at night

5. Happiness Express  – A chill and instagram-worthy restobar just across Athena Cafe  

Where To Stay in El Nido Palawan

There are lots of cheap hotels, inns and home stays around and among those are the following:

1. Northern Hope Inn Facebook : Northern Hope Tours El Nido, Palawan Globe (Mobile Phone ) : +63 927 735 3221 Smart (Mobile Phone ) : +63 939 902 2216 Smart (Mobile Phone ) : +63 942 375 2241

2. El Nido Greeviews Beach Resort Facebook: El Nido Greenviews Beach Resort Mobile: +63 916 403 7788   3.  Novie’s Tourist Inn

3. Website:  noviesinn.wix.com/noviesinnofficial/ Facebook page: Novie’s Tourist Inn Email: [email protected] Mobile: +63 908 303 2662

4. Keira Backpackers Facebook account: Keira Backpackers/ Keira Tourist Inn

5. Karmylla El Nido Facebook page: Karmylla’s Place Mobile: +63 906 965 6291

If you’re down for some luxurious hotel and resorts, you should check on the following

1.  Panorama Boutique Hotel & Beach Club Facebook page: Panorama Boutique Hotel & Beach Club, El Nido Email: [email protected] Mobile: +63 998 240 5291

2.  The Nest El Nido Beach Resort Website: www.thenestelnido.com Mobile: +63 917 714 5779

3.  Frangipani El Nido Website:  www.frangipanielnido.com Mobile: +63 917 628 3689

4.  El Nido Moringa Resort Website: www.moringa-respot.com/ Facebook page: El Nido Moringa Resort Mobile: +3 999 537 3006

5.  Vellago Resort Website:  http://vellago.com Email: [email protected] Mobile: +63 917 884 4082

6.  El Nido Bayview Resort Website:  www.elnidobayviewresorts.com/ Facebook page: El Nido Bayview Resort Email: [email protected] Telephone: +632 401 6547 Mobile (Globe): +63 917 889 2727 Mobile (Smart): +63 921 989 6907  

Sample 4 Days – 3 Nights El Nido Palawan Itinerary

DAY 1: (PM) Arrival at Puerto Princesa City Travel to Puerto Princesa City to El Nido Check in to accommodation

DAY 2: Tour A Places to Visit: 1. Small Lagoon 2. Big Lagoon 3. Secret Lagoon 4. Shimizu Island (Lunch Area) 5. Seven Commando Beach

DAY 3: Tour C 1. Matinloc Shrine 2. Secret Beach 3. Hidden Beach 4. Talisay Beach 5. Helicopter Island Evening: Travel from El Nido to Puerto Princesa City Check into accommodation

DAY 4: Home Bound

Note:  Itinerary may still depend on your flight itinerary. This itinerary works best if the booked flight for departure from your place of origin to Puerto Princesa City is in the afternoon so you could still have time to travel to El Nido and rest.   

Sample 4 Days – 3 Nights El Nido Palawan Budget

DAY 1: Van fare from Puerto Princesa to El Nido –  Php 500.00 Dinner –  Php 100.00 Inn – Php 1,200.00 / 2 –  Php 600.00

Total: Php 1,200.00

DAY 2:  Tour A –  Php 1,200.00 Dinner –  Php 150.00 Accommodation – Php 1,200.00 / 2 –  Php 600.00

Total: Php 1,950.00

DAY 3: Tour C –  Php 1,400.00 Dinner –  Php 150.00 Van Fare –  Php 150.00 Accommodation – Php 1,200.00 / 2 –  Php 600.00

Total: Php 2,300.00

DAY 4: Airport Transfer –  Php 100.00

GRAND TOTAL: Php 5,550.00 *Excluding souvenirs and airfare  *Complimentary breakfast is offered in the accommodation *Lunch is included in the tour

Tips in Traveling to El Nido Palawan

1. Bring dry bag and aqua shoes. There are several occasions that will require you to walk and pass through rocks in waters.

2. Use reef-friendly sunscreen.

3. Be a responsible traveler. Do not take home sand, shells, rocks or anything from the islands. Do not leave and throw anything to the ocean.

4. Do not feed the fish nor touch the corals.

5. Food are a little pricey in the town. The cheapest you can get is at Php 100.00 – Php 150.00 for a meal in a small canteen or local restaurant.

6. El Nido is a solo traveler-friendly town. You can just simply join tours by the agency and ask the tour guides to take photos of you. Shall you decide to book your tours with Northern Hope, look for kuya Elfer and Kuya Efren. They take the best photos! Lol.

7. Use of single-use plastic straw and bags is banned in El Nido. Shakes and drinks are sold with bamboo or paper straws and bringing of shopping eco-bags sometimes is necessary when buying something from shops.

8. If you’ll be booking a flight and will coming from Puerto Princesa City, make sure that you’ll book your departure late in the afternoon and your return early in the morning to maximize your stay in El Nido.

9. Matinloc Shrine has an entrance fee of Php 100.00 per head that is not included on the tour package fee.

10. Best place to watch the sunset is in Las Cabañas beach.

11. If you have a weak heart and are planning to go on a hike to Taraw Cliff, think twice. There are no harness and ropes at all. There is no established flat trail but sharp limestone all throughout.  

Parting Words

Anne Elizabeth Gumiran

Anne Elizabeth Gumiran, also known as Queenie, is a 20-something, full-time public school teacher, a part-time travel blogger and a freediver. She started putting her stories of adventures and misadventures into words and pictures in 2017 and continues to do so as she shares her advocacy, Sustainable Traveling.

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11 comments.

Indeed! Palawan is a great place and must be on your bucket list. Ive been to El Nido and spent 3 days, and Puerto Princessa and spent 5 days last year. I wish i could stay longer. LOL. I like the calm environment. So relaxing. So natural. I like the people and the cleanliness of them. But no one knows that it was the last. I mean now that there was corona virus, I’m afraid of. So the next destination if the corona virus already vanished is Coron. I heard of it but never been there.

Coron is quite a great place! It has really good beaches, diving spots and lagoons. Though these may also be present in El Nido, the ones on Coron really have a distinct charm. Also, have you heard about Balabac? It has the best beaches and islands that I’ve seen! It’s at the farthest end of Palawan and it takes 10 hours of travel from Puerto Princesa but it’s worth it!

When did you go? What is it like since COVID and reopening to foreign tourists?

Hi! Aside from Tour A & C, anong recommendation nyo to add tour packages? thanks

I recently tried tour B! Didn’t know it would be that amazing! Go on a land tour, too!!!

Hello, Ms Anne. Thank you for this article, which is wonderful and helpful for the first timers. I am from Malaysia and will be going to Pelawan sometime toward the end of March 2023. Will it be safe and convenient for Malaysians to do self driving tour on rented car in Pelawan? Because we are thinking of slowly and deeply enjoyed all the wonderfull places and people on the island. In the past we have been doing self driving tours in the Asean countries.

Hi, Kenny! Yes, it is safe and convenient to go around El Nido on a self-driving tour especially if you’re visiting the inland attractions 🙂

Yung van fare po ba na P500 one way lang? O roundtrip na po?

It’s only one way po. When we visited last July 2022, it’s at 700 already. I’ll update this one 🙂

Can u recommend me cheap hotel.or inn pls? Ano tour package po ba ang mas sulit?

First time po namin ng family ko magpunta sa el nido, mag DIY lang sana kami pra mkatipid

Pwde parecommend po ng beachfront hotel for.our last stay po?

Thanks po sa reply?

Hello! You may want to check Northern Hope Inn. It’s just a simple inn but very cheap and it’s just by the beach! 🙂

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El Nido Palawan Travel Guide: Hotels, Itinerary & Tips

Best Time to Go to El Nido

Dry and summer season | january to april, climate and weather.

• What to Wear
• How to Get to El Nido
• From Manila by Direct Flights
• From Puerto Princesa

From Coron by Boat

From san vicente by flights and van.

• Getting Around El Nido
• Self-drive Motorcycle
• Private Van
• Where to Stay in El Nido

Types of Accommodations

• Neighborhoods and Areas
• Accommodation Highlights in El Nido
• What to See and Do in El Nido
• Go Island-Hopping
• Do a Land Tour

Dive to Explore the Marine Life

• See the View from Taraw Cliff
• What to Eat and Drink in El Nido
• Local Cuisine

Recommended Restaurants and Bars

• Practical Information and Tips

Sample Itinerary in El Nido

Day 1: travel from puerto princesa to el nido, day 2: el nido island-hopping tour to big lagoon, day 3: el nido island-hopping matinloc island tour.

• Day 4: El Nido Canopy Walk + Land Tour
• Day 5: Travel back to Puerto Princesa

Get your sun-kissed adventure in the islands and beaches of El Nido, Palawan. Find out when is the best time to go here, what are the must-visit tourist spots and things to do, which resorts and hotels to stay in, and how to plan your itinerary with this detailed travel guide. 

When it comes to pristine white sand beaches and islands, El Nido in Palawan comes highly-recommended by local and international travelers as the top choice to go to when in the Philippines.

El Nido has been named a number of times by travel publication sites as the best island beaches in the world because of its paradise-like attractions with white sand, turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and stunning limestone cliffs. 

• Browse our selection of El Nido tours and experiences that you can add to your itinerary
• See other Palawan tours that you can try

El Nido the gateway to the awe-inspiring Bacuit Archipelago which houses 45 islands and islets, each with its unique geological formations. It’s no wonder that El Nido has been ranked consistently as one of the best island destinations not just in the Philippines, but in the world. 

There are a lot of things to do in El Nido from El Nido island hopping tours , lounging on beaches, hiking up cliffs, and even scuba diving. Reading this guide on El Nido, Palawan will make it easy for you to plan a trip and maximize your time in one of the best tourist spots in the Philippines .

See our popular El Nido Tours and Activities

Private el nido palawan lio airport to or from any el nido town hotel transfer service, palawan el nido shared island hopping tour a with lunch & transfers | secret lagoon, shimizu island, private puerto princesa airport to or from el nido town transfer service.

See our popular El Nido Island Hopping Tours

Palawan el nido shared island hopping tour c with lunch & transfers | secret beach, hidden beach, palawan el nido shared island hopping tour d with lunch & transfers | cadlao lagoon, paradise beach.

The season when traveling to El Nido, Palawan is crucial. It is because the activities that you will be doing are outdoors like island-hopping, exploring beaches, and climbing cliffs. To make the most of your time in this island paradise, plan your trip during the dry months. Read on to find out when you should book your trip to El Nido.

The best months to go to El Nido, Palawan is from January to April, when it’s dry and sunny. The summer season in the Philippines is from March to April so expect more local travelers during this time. The rains start by around May, but the weather can still be sunny during this time if there are no tropical storms. 

Like other island destinations in the Philippines, El Nido is warm and humid. The warmest month is during April, with the temperature averaging at 28.7 °C. The month with the lowest temperatures is in September, with the temperature dropping to 26.8 °C.

El Nido receives the most rain during August, its wettest month, so best to avoid going there during that time. Make sure to check weather updates before booking your tours in El Nido, Palawan.

Here’s an overview of the average temperature and rainfall in El Nido, Palawan all year-round:

Source: climate-data.org

What to Wear 

Pack your breathable summer outfits if you’re planning a trip to El Nido, especially during the dry and summer season. Make sure to bring sun protection like sunglasses, hats, and scarves especially if you’re exploring El Nido on a motorcycle. At night, bring a light jacket or a scarf with you to keep you warm if you’re by the beach.

How to Get to El Nido 

The main jump-off point from El Nido is the capital of the Philippines, Manila. You can either take a direct flight or fly to Palawan’s capital, Puerto Princesa, then ride a bus or van.

If you are already in other Palawan destinations like Coron or San Vicente, El Nido can be accessed by land or sea travel. Read on to find out what your options are on how to go to El Nido, Palawan. 

From Manila by Direct Flights 

Photo by AirSWIFT

The fastest way to go to El Nido is to fly directly to Lio Airport from Manila. Currently,  AirSwift is the only airline that services the Manila to El Nido route. AirSwift operates up to four direct flights per day from Manila. The travel time is 1 hour and 20 minutes. From the airport, the Town Proper is just 30 minutes away by land travel. 

See our popular El Nido Transfers

Shared puerto princesa airport to or from el nido town van transfer service, from puerto princesa .

The most common travel option when going to El Nido is by riding a plane to Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan. The flight fares are cheaper compared to a direct flight.

• Browse our list of Puerto Princesa Underground River tours
• Check out our  Puerto Princesa to El Nido tour package with Port Barton island-hopping side trip

The majority of travelers take this route because it’s cost-efficient, although you will need to allocate extra days for your trip just for the transfer to and from El Nido.

There are flights to Puerto Princesa from Manila (1 hour and 25 minutes), Clark in Pampanga (about 1 hour and 30 minutes), and Cebu in the Visayas (about 1 hour and 15 minutes).

You can book through  Philippine Airlines ,  Cebu Pacific , or  AirAsia . Once in Puerto Princesa airport, you will need to ride a van or bus for 5-7 hours going to El Nido.

By Van 

Vans are the most popular option among travelers for land travel to El Nido because it’s slightly faster than the bus with a travel time of 5-6 hours. The vans only leave once it’s full of passengers. The only stop is halfway for restroom and snack breaks.

It’s advisable to book these in advance so they can pick you up straight from the airport. You can also hire a private van if you’re traveling as a group for a more convenient trip.  

By Bus 

It is a good option if you're traveling with big or multiple luggage because buses have luggage compartments. Compared to vans, buses have more extensive legroom. However, travel time is longer at 6-7 hours because they make stops along the way to pick up and drop off passengers.

From the airport, ride a tricycle going to San Jose Terminal where you can board a bus going to El Nido. You have the option to ride an ordinary (non-air-conditioned) and air-conditioned bus. The bus will drop you off at a terminal station in El Nido where you can ride a tricycle going to your resort or hotel. 

Photo by Montenegro Lines

If you're already in Coron, Palawan, you can ride a fast craft going to El Nido. The travel time is around 4 hours. The boat leaves Coron at noon and arrives by 3:30 PM in El Nido. There are no direct flights from Busuanga Airport in Coron to El Nido.

Located 2-2.5 hours away by land from El Nido is an emerging Palawan destination called  San Vicente . You can fly to San Vicente Airport by booking flights with  SkyJet (from Manila, 50 minutes) or  Philippine Airlines (from Clark in Pampanga, 1 hour and 30 minutes).

From there, you can hire a van that will take you to El Nido. Make sure to book your van transfer in advance so they can pick you up at San Vicente Airport. 

Getting Around El Nido 

El Nido is a small town that travelers can easily explore by riding small vehicles like motorcycles or tricycles, and vans for bigger groups. Here are your options for transportation. Make sure to choose based on your group size, budget, and comfort preference.

Motorcycle 

The majority of visitors traveling solo hire motorcycle taxis (called habal-habal ) driven by a local. They are best for land tours within El Nido. You can hire this per drop-off or for the whole day. Rates will vary on the destination. You can find these usually parked at the Town Proper or ask your hotel to call one for you. 

Self-drive Motorcycle 

If you know how to drive a motorcycle, you can rent a unit at the shops located in the Town Proper. It is a good option if you're traveling alone or by pairs, and want to explore El Nido at your own pace.

Tricycle 

Private Van 

For bigger groups or if you want the most comfortable transport option, you can hire a private van. These can take you around El Nido for a land tour, and you can also hire for your whole trip or travel to neighboring destinations in Palawan such as Puerto Princesa or San Vicente.

It's better to book this in advance since they are on call and don't have their terminal.

Where to Stay in El Nido     

El Nido offers accommodations that can provide you with rest for any budget and preference for your temporary home. Read on to find out what types of accommodations there are in El Nido, which places to stay in, and which are the highly-recommended resorts and hotels that you can book.  

El Nido is a small beach town that maintains a rustic rural vibe. There are no towering luxury hotels here like in the big cities of Metro Manila. However, there are luxury resort in El Nido located on islands for those who are willing to splurge on Philippine luxury vacation packages .

For budget travelers, there are also backpacker hostels or inns with basic amenities. Below are the accommodation options that you can book in El Nido. 

Island and Beachfront Resorts

There are several accommodations in El Nido that are located on islands and beaches, including some of the best beach resorts in the Philippines . The higher-priced resorts are those in private islands, while the mid- to high-range resorts are those in the beachfront of El Nido's main island or town center.

These offer full amenities, including breakfast and a generator for 24 hours of electricity, making them ideal perfect accommodations for a honeymoon in the Philippines . If you want to wake up with the most stunning views of El Nido, then book one of these island and beachfront resorts.

Backpacker Hostels/Inns

Photo by Mad Monkey Hostel Nacpan Beach

El Nido is also a budget-friendly destination for backpackers or solo travelers. You can find many cheap hotels in the inner streets of El Nido’s mainland or town center. These are usually dormitory and private fan rooms with a shared bathroom and common areas.

• See destinations for solo travel in the Philippines

The best in value backpacker hostels or inns in El Nido are those that are located near the beach. For solo travelers, hostels with dormitory-type rooms offer the best option for budget-friendly accommodations and the possibility of meeting up with fellow travelers to join up with for your tours. 

Glamping 

Be one with nature in glamping resorts and hotels in El Nido. There are a few in various beachfront and island locations all over El Nido that have been surging in popularity in recent years.

Glamping is a glamorous style of camping where tents are set up with resort-style amenities and services including air-conditioning and mattresses. It's a definite must-try when you're in a beautiful place like El Nido, Palawan.

Vacation Rentals

A lot of travelers from locals to foreigners have fallen in love with El Nido. It's no wonder that investing in property in this island destination has become famous for those who can afford it.

A number of these private properties are available for rent. They vary in location from the town center, neighboring barangays, beachfront, and even private islands. These are usually equipped with the kitchen and the exclusive use of one group at a time for privacy.   

Neighborhoods and Areas 

Town Proper

Staying in the busy Town Proper is a good option if you want the closest spot to the main beach of El Nido. This area is also accessible to tour offices, restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops. The majority of beachfront resorts and hostels are found in this area. 

Do you want the exclusivity of a secluded island? You can stay in the islands by booking a room or villa in the luxury resorts of El Nido, Palawan. These offer the best home base in El Nido if you are willing to splurge for it.

These accommodations include full amenities and in-house restaurants and bars, aside from direct access to the beautiful beaches and turquoise waters of El Nido. 

Corong-Corong

It can take roughly 10-15 minutes to walk to the town proper to reach the restaurants. The beach in this part of El Nido is known for its stunning sunset views. 

For those who prioritize rest away from the crowds during their El Nido vacation, it might be best to base in Caalan. This peaceful area will give you the best views of the neighboring Cadlao Island while being just a tricycle ride away from town. 

Accommodation Highlights in El Nido 

Now that you know what accommodation options and where the best spots are to stay in El Nido. Read on to find out which are the highly recommended El Nido hotels and resorts from budget-friendly, mid-range to luxury.  

Budget Accommodations

You don’t have to burn a hole in your pocket to enjoy El Nido, Palawan. There are plenty of affordable hotels that you can book. These are some of the top-rated by tourists because of their amenities, location, and customer service. 

Spin Designer Hostel 

Photo by SPIN Designer Hostel

One of the top-rated best value hostels in El Nido is this hip accommodation that is a favorite among digital nomads and backpackers. It has dorm-type and private rooms with shared or private bathrooms.

They also have a shared kitchen and barbecue facility, gaming room, and a shared terrace with a forest view. Guests love their movie nights (with free popcorn!), beer pong games, and margarita nights. The hostel is also just around a 5-minute walk from the Town Proper. 

Outpost Beach Hostel

Located in Corong-Corong's Sunset Beach, this beachfront social hostel is one of the most popular backpacker home bases in El Nido. They have dorm-type and private rooms with air-conditioning and fans, hot shower, and lockers.

It is the perfect hostel for those who love socializing with new friends from different parts of the world. Hang out by their beachfront bar and restaurant to watch the sunset or befriend other guests. 

Mad Monkey Hostel Nacpan Beach 

This beachfront accommodation in Nacpan Beach, about 30 minutes away from the Town Proper, is a popular hostel for laid-back night parties in their on-site restaurant and bar. They offer dorm-type rooms with fan and glamping tents. It’s part of the Mad Monkey Hostels group, a famous chain of party hostels in Southeast Asia. 

Mid-range Accommodations

Photo by El Nido Garden Resort

Are you willing to pay for a slightly higher priced rooms for more private and comfortable accommodation in El Nido? Check out these mid-range priced resorts that have full amenities and more than basic room features. These are top-rated by travelers because of the location and service. 

El Nido Garden Resort

This beachfront resort has rooms with air-conditioning, flat-screen cable TV, fridge, coffee and tea, and a private bathroom. Some of their rooms also have a patio that you can lounge in with the sea view of El Nido's main beach. They offer buffet breakfast for guests, a bar, and an outdoor swimming pool.  

The Nest El Nido 

This boutique resort in Calaan Beach has air-conditioned rooms with amenities like a flat-screen cable TV, kettle and minibar, and private bathroom. They serve continental breakfast at their restaurant with a view of the nearby Cadlao Island. They also have a yoga floor when you can do your morning practice with a stunning view of the islands and Bacuit Bay.  

Nacpan Beach Glamping

This palm-tree filled beachfront property in El Nido's Nacpan Beach. They offer unique rooms known as glamping, where huge tents are designed to look luxurious and fitted with the comforts of an air-conditioner and quality mattresses.

Photo by Nacpan Beach Glamping

Each is spacious enough to include lounge chairs and a table for dining. They also have safety boxes to keep your belongings secure.

Luxury Accommodations 

Do you want to live the royal life in El Nido and stay in the best island resorts? Check out these highly-rated accommodations. You’ll have the exclusivity and serene vibe of a private island without the crowds and get the best service from these resorts: 

El Nido Resorts 

Photo by El Nido Resorts

The most premier resorts on this side of Palawan are those that belong to the El Nido Resorts group of sustainable island resorts. In El Nido, you can choose from the resorts in Apulit Island, Miniloc Island, Lagen Island, and Pangulasian Island.

Guests are picked up from the Lio Airport in El Nido or from the El Nido Resorts Jetty Lounge and transferred by boat to the island where they're staying in.

See our popular El Nido Vacation Packages

5-day nature & islands adventure package to puerto princesa and el nido palawan, affordable 4-day el nido palawan package at den'gi inn with island hopping tour & daily breakfast, fun-filled 4-day el nido palawan package at charlie's el nido with island hopping & airfare.

The resorts offer rooms designed with indigenous Filipino materials but have modern features and amenities. You can choose from the rooms by the beach, in the gardens, or the villas perched on the water that features modern amenities. They also have their restaurants and bars and spas on each island. 

Cauayan Island Resort

This luxury resort located in Cauayan Island of El Nido’s Bacuit Bay is another top choice for those who want to splurge for the best amenities and services. You can choose from their villas located by the beach, gardens, pool, or those perched on the water.

Villas are designed like nipa huts but feature modern amenities like a flat-screen cable TV, minibar, indoor and outdoor shower facilities. They also have a restaurant and pool bar on the island where they serve local and international dishes.  

What to See and Do in El Nido          

Aside from beaches and islands, El Nido also has land tours and activities that are fun to explore as side trips. Read on to find out what tourist spots and activities await you in El Nido, Palawan:  

Go Island-Hopping 

El Nido is known for its stunning lagoons, white sand beaches, rocky islets, towering limestone cliffs, and glasslike waters teeming with marine life. The island has earned nothing but praises from visitors, and numerous accolades of being one the best island and beach destinations in the world.

The majority of El Nido's top attractions are located on the islands and islets within Bacuit Bay, which is why island-hopping is a popular recreational activity. It’s best to visit these attractions in advance before your arrival, especially if you're going during peak season.

• Cebu to Coron to El Nido tour
• Coron to El Nido tour
• El Nido to San Vicente tour
• El Nido-Cebu-Bohol tour package

Aside from the regular boat transfers, you can opt to try the El Nido yacht island hopping tou r where you tour the islands and beaches in style. 

Here’s an overview of the top attractions you can visit during  island-hopping tours in El Nido , Palawan:

A stunning site with emerald-colored waters surrounded by dark towering limestone cliffs. Boats are not allowed to go inside, but travelers can get off the boats and ride their kayaks to explore Big Lagoon. Book an El Nido Big Lagoon island hopping tour to explore this attraction. 

Small Lagoon

The smaller version of Blue Lagoon has calm blue-green waters that are perfect kayaking, swimming, and snorkeling. This lagoon in Miniloc Island is a sight to behold because you'll be swimming in the middle of a natural pool surrounded by towering cliffs. Join an El Nido Small Lagoon island hopping tour to visit this beautiful tourist spot. 

Secret Lagoon

Also known as Hidden Lagoon, this enchanting attraction in El Nido will require visitors to enter a small hole in one of the limestone cliffs to see the natural pool inside. 

Secret Beach

This is a small patch of white sand beach hidden inside limestone cliffs. To get to the beach, you need to swim through a hole first. It is believed to have been the inspiration of author Alex Garland for writing the novel The Beach, which starred Leonardo di Caprio in the film adaptation. You can visit this spot by joining an El Nido Secret Beach island hopping tour . 

• Love soaking up the sun on beaches? Check out our articles on the  Best Beaches in the Philippines
• Check out other destinations where you can try island hopping in the Philippines
• Read our article on Port Barton resorts

See our popular El Nido Snake Island Tours

Palawan el nido shared island hopping tour b with lunch & transfers | snake island, cudognon cave, hassle-free 5-day el nido palawan package at seda lio 5-star hotel with island hopping & snorkeling.

Shimizu Island

Also spelled Simizu Island, this is usually a popular lunch stopover in El Nido. It’s a great spot not just for swimming, but for snorkeling as well because of its abundant marine life. Book an El Nido Shimizu Island tour if you want to visit this tourist spot. 

Seven Commandos Beach

This is a 320-meter long white sand beach where you can lounge by the sand or go swimming and snorkeling. 

Snake Island

It is named because of the S-shape of the white powdery sandbar that connects another island to the mainland of El Nido during low tide. Explore caves and beaches when you join an El Nido Snake Island tour . 

Pinagbuyutan Island

A picturesque island with a white sand beach, also known as Ellis Island, and is perfect for swimming and snorkeling. 

Matinloc Shrine

This is a spiritual oasis that houses the Shrine of Our Lady of Matinloc and provides a beautiful view of the jagged cliffs overlooking a crescent-shaped cove. 

Cudugnon Cave

This historical cave with high ceilings and majestic rock formations is where antique jewelry and pottery were discovered. Join an El Nido beaches and caves island hopping tour to explore these natural wonders. 

Cathedral Cave

It's called a cathedral cave because of its open chamber and high ceiling that make it look like a cathedral. Swimming isn't allowed here though because of venomous snakes in the area. 

Helicopter Island (Dilumacad Island)

This island is shaped like a helicopter from afar, thus the name. It's an excellent spot for snorkeling and swimming. 

See our popular Yacht and Boat Tours

Shared puerto princesa underground river tour in palawan with lunch & hotel transfers, bohol island hopping private tour to balicasag & virgin islands with dolphin watching & transfers, boracay sunset cruise with snorkeling gear, kayak, paddle board & mermaid tail.

Popolkan Island

One of the best snorkeling spots in El Nido because of its colorful school of different kinds.  

Tapiutan Island/Star Beach

One of the most stunning island and beach destinations in El Nido because of its crystal clear and azure waters. It is also a popular lunch stopover.

Pasandigan Beach

This top diving site in Cadlao Island is an excellent stop if you want to snorkel and see the abundant, vibrant corals.

Paradise Beach This uncrowded beach with a stretch of white sand has majestic cliffs as its background. It is an excellent spot for swimming or getting a tan. You can visit this spot when you join an El Nido Paradise Beach speedboat tour . 

Do a Land Tour 

Aside from the stunning islands and beaches, you can also tour El Nido’s land attractions. You can hail a tricycle or motorcycle, or drive a rented motorcycle to visit these spots if you're coming from a resort or hotel in the mainland.

Alternatively, you can also hire a private van tour for a more comfortable and convenient travel experience. Make sure to include these spots when doing a land tour of El Nido. 

Twin Beaches of Nacpan and Calitang - One of the most famous land tour spots in El Nido is the 4-km Nacpan Beach. It is adjacent to Calitang Beach; that's why they're called the Twin Beaches. Go here to swim, lounge by the beach, or hike up to the hill where you can see the view of the Twin Beaches.

Nagkalit-kalit Falls - "Nagkalit-kalit" translates to "nagsalit" (taking a moment). You will take a moment to appreciate the beauty of this majestic falls.

Las Cabanas Beach (Marimegmeg Beach) - This beach is an uncrowded tourist spot known for its beautiful sunsets and laid-back vibe. There are also restaurants and bars lined up by the beach, perfect for a relaxing drink or snacks while watching the sunset. 

South Miniloc - The most famous dive site in El Nido. This diving spot offers colorful, shallow-water coral gardens combined with a rare chance to see sea turtles, yellowtail barracuda, and smaller schools of chevron. 

North Rock - Located near the center of Bacuit Bay, its location makes it a great diving spot for pelagic sight. 

Dilumacad Island - A stunning site for experienced divers in Helicopter Island. It’s known for cave dive sites called the Dilumacad Tunnel. 

Entalula Island - It is known for two diving spots called Entalula Wall and Entalula Drift. You can see vibrant coral gardens, small inhabitants like the electric oyster, and schools of fish. 

Nat-Nat Beach - It is popular with macro photographers and critter hunters. Here you can find an exciting collection of corals and macro life. 

See our popular El Nido Diving Courses and Packages

Palawan el nido discover scuba diving for beginners with equipment, tank, weight belt & snacks, palawan el nido sunrise dive with equipment, tank & weight belt, palawan el nido fun dive for certified divers with equipment, tank, weight belt & snacks, see the view from taraw cliff .

If you’re not afraid of heights, a must-do in El Nido is to hike Taraw Cliff. You will climb its steep limestone rocks that oversee the entire town of El Nido. You’ll be treated to a breathtaking panoramic view of the main beach and its surrounding islands. Climbing and hike Taraw Cliff requires a guide. 

If you want another way to see the view, you can try the Canopy Walk. Guests are provided with helmets, safety harnesses, and a guide during the trek. It is perfect for inexperienced hikers who don't want to climb the limestone rocks with their hands and feet only.  

What to Eat and Drink in El Nido             

After a day of island-hopping and touring, one of the best things to do here is to enjoy the El Nido restaurants and nightlife around town. El Nido has that small-town charm that is preserved by the locals, and travel businesses, so don't expect the night scene to be similar to Boracay.

Local Cuisine 

El Nido has a diverse food scene, with boutique restaurants serving international cuisine right next to humble hole-in-the-wall eateries. You can find any cuisine here to suit your mood.

Just walk along the side streets, and you can easily come across Japanese sushi, Mediterranean cuisine, artisanal gelato, and good-old Filipino grilled specialties. 

But one thing not to miss when in El Nido, Palawan is the bird's nest soup. It is a delicacy made from the bird's nest of the Balinsasayaw bird that it forms with its saliva. El Nido is named after this, as El Nido translates to "The Nest."

The nests are found in the crevices of the limestone cliffs found around El Nido. This simple soup is pricey, though because of its limited supply and the difficulty of harvesting it. 

Whether you're traveling alone or as a group, you will enjoy hanging out in the restaurants and bars in El Nido. These are mostly located in the Town Proper, with the best ones lined up or near the beach. Check out some of our recommended dining and drinking spots in El Nido:

El Nido Boutique & Art Cafe

Photo by El Nido Boutique & Art Cafe

One of the long-time homegrown places, best known for their view of Cadlao Mountain, the beach, and their delicious pizza and pasta dishes. It is one of the oldest and more established restaurants serving a variety of rice meals, tasty appetizers and, Italian fare.

It's also one of the leading establishments that serve craft beer from Palaweno Brewery, a local brewery based in the capital Puerto Princesa. 

Squidos Sports Bar

Craving for seafood in El Nido? Get a table at Squidos Sports Ba where they serve fresh seafood in big servings. Their house specialty is the stuffed squid. The mixed seafood platter is a must-try too! 

Trattoria Altrove

Dubbed to be the best pizza place in El Nido, this restaurant has already made a name for itself. More and more travelers are discovering this gem that serves brick oven pizza. Don’t miss their Pancetta Con Tartufo (truffle bacon pizza) and Gamberreti Aglio Olio paired with a chilled bottle of wine.

Another exciting addition in the local dining and beer scene is this Ukrainian nano-brewery established in El Nido in 2017. They serve Cadlao IPA, and Pale Ale brewed for the tropical climate along with Ukrainian beer chow like mussels and shrimp dumplings with pesto.

Practical Information and Tips 

Before you jet off to El Nido, take note of these helpful travel tips for a hassle-free adventure. Find out what the mode of payment is if credit cards are accepted, and what languages are spoken by the locals. 

Currency 

Make sure to bring enough cash in Philippine Peso (PHP). There's one ATM in the Town Proper, but there's no assurance that it will be online all the time during your trip. It's best to withdraw or exchange enough money while you're in bigger cities like Manila.

Some establishments like luxury hotels and high-end restaurants, accept credit cards, but again, it's better to bring enough cash. 

Language 

The locals of El Nido speak Filipino, Cuyonon, and other varieties of Visayan languages. The majority of locals, especially in tourist areas, can speak and understand basic English. 

El Nido is best enjoyed when you're not in a rush. Unless you're flying directly to El Nido, a day trip isn't possible. Most first-time visitors allot at least four days for El Nido considering the travel time from Puerto Princesa and back.

For a complete tour, we suggest staying for at least five days. You can also book a full day El Nido island-hopping tour with transfers to and from Puerto Princesa if you’re pressed for time, Here is a sample itinerary for your trip that you can take inspiration from for your El Nido adventure:

08:00 AM - ETA at Puerto Princesa Airport

08:30 AM - Van transfer to El Nido 

11:00 AM - Lunch stopover

1:30 PM -  ETA at El Nido terminal 

1: 45 PM - Tricycle to resort/hostel

2:00 PM - Check-in at resort/hotel; Settle in or rest

04:00 PM - Go to the tourism office and pay the environmental fee 

04:30 PM - Snacks in Town Proper

05:30 PM - Sunset at the beach 

06:30 PM - Dinner

08:00 PM - Drinks 

10:00 PM - Back to resort/hotel

6:00 AM - Wake up and prepare 

7:00 AM - Breakfast 

9:00 AM - Start of  El Nido Big Lagoon island-hopping tour

5:00 PM - End of the tour; go back to resort/hotel to wash and change

6:00 PM - Dinner 

8:00 PM - Drinks 

9:00 AM - Start of  El Nido Matinloc Island tour

Day 4: El Nido Canopy Walk + Land Tour 

9:00 AM - Start of Canopy Walk

10:30 AM - End of Canopy Walk tour; back to resort/hotel to freshen up

12:00 NN - Lunch

1:30 PM - Start of El Nido land tour 

6:30 PM - End of the land tour; Dinner

8:00 PM - Drinks

Day 5: Travel back to Puerto Princesa 

8:00 AM - Check-out of hotel 

8:30 AM - Van transfer to Puerto Princesa 

11:00 AM - Lunch stopover 

1:30 PM - ETA in Puerto Princesa 

Paradise Awaits You in El Nido! 

• Boracay to El Nido Philippine tour packages
• Boracay to Palawan Philippine tour packages
• Puerto Princesa to El Nido tour packages
• Cebu to El Nido Philippine tour packages

El Nido, Palawan is the perfect destination for everyone who is dreaming of an idyllic tropical island vacation with breathtaking views not just above water but also underwater.

Visit it for yourself and see first-hand the beauty of this destination with different  El Nido tours and activities to add in your itinerary. 

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No required documents for inbound travellers going to Caticlan. Children below 12 years old must accomplish the Certificate of Undertaking Travelling with Minors template in https://aklan.gov.ph  under Tourism or you may click  here .

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Unvaccinated or Partially Vaccinated Negative result of RT-PCR Swab from DOH accredited facility or Saliva test from Philippine Red Cross taken 72 hours prior to time of arrival.

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2024 EL NIDO TRAVEL GUIDE: Tourist Spots, Itinerary & Expenses

• Post author: Glen Nomad
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• Post last modified: January 15, 2024

Our comprehensive El Nido Travel guide featuring the island’s tourist spots, hotels, restaurants, and more.

Famous for its pure white sand, crystal clear waters, coral reefs, and majestic limestone formations, El Nido is a slice of paradise that both local and foreign tourists love to visit. Every vacationer should make it a point to check out the lagoons, islets, and other stunning natural sights here.

Here’s our El Nido travel guide to help you plan your future visit to one of the most beautiful islands in the world.

When is the best time to visit El Nido?

El Nido is an all-year-round travel destination so you can pretty much visit the town any time of the year. But, if you want to enjoy it more, the best time to go is during the summer season which usually starts in March and ends in May. 

How to get to El Nido?

There are a number of ways to get to El Nido from different parts of the Philippines. This El Nido travel guide lists down common ways to get to El Nido from Manila , Cebu, Davao, and Coron .

How to get to El Nido from Manila

There is now a direct flight between Manila and El Nido via Airswift. Flights are limited and quite expensive so flying to Puerto Princesa is still the most common way of going to El Nido. From Puerto Princesa, you can take a bus or van to El Nido. The travel time is around 5-6 hours. Vans take a shorter time to reach El Nido. You can book a seat here by bus or van .

How to get to El Nido from Cebu

There is also a direct flight from Cebu Mactan International Airport to El Nido via AirSwift. Again, flight frequency is limited so flying via Puerto Princesa from Cebu is still the most common way.

How to get to El Nido from Coron

There are boats that operate from Coron to El Nido and vice-versa. You can opt to take a fast craft, passenger ship, and outrigger. Here’s the boat schedule from Coron to El Nido .

There is also now a direct flight from Busuanga/Coron to El Nido via Airswift. Check out our Coron Travel Guide if you haven’t been there.

How to get to El Nido from Puerto Princesa

El Nido is around 5-6 hours away from Puerto Princesa. If you are traveling on a large group, you can charter a van for around Php5-7,000, one-way. If you are traveling solo or with a small group, taking a public bus or shared van is another option. There are vans from Puerto Princesa Airport that can take you to El Nido. You can also take a tricycle to the Puerto Princesa Integrated Bus Terminal to catch a bus or van to El Nido. Book a van or bus

How to get around El Nido

The most common mode of transportation in El Nido is tricycles. You can either share a ride with strangers or charter a trip if you are going to get out of the town proper. If you are more than five people, I highly suggest you rent a van for a more convenient journey.

Alternatively, you can also rent a scooter so you can move around the town freely.

Where to stay in El Nido?

Budget hotels and cheap hostels in el nido.

Frendz Hostel

Frendz Hostel El Nido is located about 5 minutes walk from the center. It offers a great view of both the town and the sea and it’s an ideal place for visitors who are looking for a hippie vibe accommodation in El Nido.

A bed in a mixed dorm starts at around Php1,300 (USD25) a night Check availability and book

Alocasia Hostel

If you are looking for a cheap place to stay within the town center of El Nido, you can check out Alocasia Hostel. It is conveniently located very close to the island hopping jump-off point. 

Room rates at around Php1,300 (USD25) a night for a standard room. Check availability and book 

Spin Designer Hostel

Located not too far away from the town center, Spin Designer hostel offers affordable and comfortable accommodation catered especially to budget travelers.

Rates start at P750 (USD15) for a 1 Person in 4-Bed Dormitory – Mixed Check reviews and availability

Mid-range Hotels in El Nido

Lime Resort El Nido

Lime Resort El Nido is one of the newest hotels in El Nido located in Corong-Corong, about 15-20 minutes away from the town proper. It offers a breathtaking view of Bacuit Bay and El Nido sunset. It features an infinity pool, a sky bar, a sky deck, and rooms with a view of the bay.

Room rates start at around Php6,000 (USD115) for a deluxe room Check availability and book  OR see more photos from our recent stay at Lime Resort

Luxury Hotels in El Nido

El Nido Resorts – Pangulasian Island

El Nido Resorts – Pangulasian Island is an eco-luxury island resort in Bacuit Bay, El Nido featuring breathtaking views of the sunrise and the sunset. It offers a total of 42 deluxe rooms built in contemporary Filipino architecture. Check out our list of Luxury Resorts in Palawan . Room rates: Php28,000 per night Check availability and book

El Nido Group Tours

El Nido is easy and convenient to explore. Whether you are in a big group or traveling solo, you can always book a reliable tour agency for that memorable and wonderful experience while on the Island. Gotmarked Tours offers affordable El Nido tours. You can message them on their FB page at: Gotmarked Tours

El Nido Tour A

Discover the islands, lagoons, and beaches of El Nido through a whole day of island hopping. Explore the clear waters of Miniloc Island and enjoy the beaches of Shimizu Island, Seven Commandos, and of course the magnificent view of El Nido Big Lagoon. The Small Lagoon was used to be a part of this tour but it has now been moved to Tour D. This tour includes a lunch on the beach.

Joiner tour starts at Php1,050 – BOOK NOW

El Nido Tour B

El Nido Tour B allows you to explore Snake Island, Pinagbuyatan Island, Cudugnon Cave, Cathedral Cave, and Papaya Beach. This tour starts at around 9:30 am and will usually end at 3 pm.

Joiner tour at only Php1,100 – BOOK NOW

El Nido Tour C

El Nido Tour C allows you to explore the islands of Dilumacad (Helicopter Island) and Matinloc, known as one of the shooting locations of the movie Bourne Legacy. You will also have a chance to visit the Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, and Talisay Beach. This tour starts at 9 am and ends at 3 pm.

Joiner tour at only Php1,175 – BOOK NOW

El Nido Tour D

El Nido Tour D will take you on an unforgettable island hopping experience through some of the most gorgeous lagoons and beaches in Palawan. If you join this tour, you will visit Cadlao Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Bukat Beach, Natnat Beach, and Paradise Beach.

The price of Tour D is only P1,200 per head Book your El Nido Tour D with Gotmarked Tours

El Nido Luxury Tours

Fancy exploring the island on a speedboat or catamaran? You can get on a private luxury tour in El Nido for a more memorable experience. Just choose between the two tours below:

Top Tourist Spots in El Nido

Nacpan beach.

Essentially a part that makes one of two intertwined—so-called twin—beaches, the Nacpan Beach makes for the better of the two for being bigger and encompassing a long stretch of land, dotted and lined with tall palm trees.

How to get there: The cheapest way to go there is by renting a motorcycle and drive your way to Nacpan Beach. The rental cost is around Php600 for a day. If you don’t want to drive, you can charter a tricycle for around Php1,000 for two people. Travel time is around an hour.

Taraw Cliff

No adventure in El Nido is ever complete without one braving the area’s highest peak, the Taraw Cliff. With a height that overlooks the overall town of El Nido and a fortress-like image from below, Taraw Cliff never ceases to amaze regardless of which angle you are from it. If you want a perfect view, try to start hiking as early as 5 AM.

Alternatively, you can also do a Taraw Cliff Canopy walk .

When we speak of the ocean, it always gets deeper the farther you go from the coast. But for a long stretch of shallow seawater that seems to outsize its smaller counterpart, the Big Lagoon makes for a very interesting visit to the shallow areas of El Nido. This is a must-visit tourist spot in El Nido and kayaking is a must activity to get to the Big Lagoon. The kayak rent is only Php300 (USD6) for two people.

How to get there: Join El Nido Tour A.

Small Lagoon

Basically the smaller of the two prominent lagoons in El Nido. Although the Small Lagoon is little in size, it makes up for its unique structure that makes visiting it an equally impressive experience.

How to get there: Join El Nido Tour D.

Seven Commandos Beach

As intriguing as its name may sound, there are no military operations taking place on this coast. The name actually harkens back to a tale that speaks of seven soldiers who were stranded on the island which some might openly dispute. Regardless of the island’s name, however, the main highlight of being on this shore is its unique scenery as highlighted by the perfect mixture of verdant trees on land and clear seawaters.

How to get there: Join El Nido Tour A.

Pinagbuyutan Island

Made of mostly rocky formations carpeted with greeneries on most of its surface, the Pinagbuyutan Island has an imposing presence from a relative distance. But take the bold steps to get close and you shall see the ground of powdery whites that is a hallmark on almost every beautiful island in the area.

How to get there: Join El Nido Tour B.

Secret Beach

Not many people who are not native to El Nido knew of the Secret Beach, hence its name. Although the shore itself is not entirely hidden when seen from the sky, its rather unusual entrance—which requires a bit of swimming—makes it relatively obscure, particularly to any unsuspecting person.

How to get there: Join El Nido Tour C.  

Corong Corong Beach

El Nido is booming in the tourism business. Nowhere is this more evident than in an area where hospitality business establishments thrive such as around Corong Corong Beach. Yet, for an island where solitude makes for a prevailing theme, the Corong Corong Beach’s rather wide expanse is never too crowded.

How to get there: Corong Corong Beach is close to El Nido town proper. You can hail a tricycle from the town proper and alight at the drop-off point or you can charter a tricycle for around Php70.

Cathedral Cave

Having an inner view that mimics a cathedral, the Cathedral Cave makes for a picturesque place on an island. But, as a home to known venomous sea snakes, it is a place where swimming is strictly forbidden.

How to get there: Join El Nido Tour B.  

Cadlao Island

Embodying a beauty that is akin to Tahiti, only smaller, the Cadlao Island can be quite easily mistaken as a place in French Polynesia. Apart from the sea, the main highlight of Cadlao Island is the snorkeling paradise of Ubungun Cove.

How to get there: Join El Nido Tour D.  

Talisay Beach

Talisay Beach is one of the lesser-known beach destinations in El Nido, but it actually surprised me in so many ways. It is a known lunch stop of most boatmen during El Nido Tour C. It is situated near Matinloc Shrine, a more popular tourist spot in El Nido.

Maregmeg Beach

If you are looking for a nice spot to watch the stunning sunset of El Nido, then head over to Maregmeg Beach. It’s located about 30-45 minutes away from El Nido town center. If you are taking a trike, it will cost you Php150 (USD3) per trip, one-way.

Where to Eat in El Nido

El nido boutique artcafe.

El Nido Artcafe is probably the most popular restaurant in El Nido. Must try on their menu are Seafood Spaghetti, Seafood Basket, Pizza Pancetta, and Chicken Tikka Masala. Check out El Nido ArtCafe Menu

Frendz Sky Bar and Restaurant

If you want good food and an amazing sunset view then Frendz Sky Bar and Restaurant might be the perfect place for you. Must-try is their sizzling tanigue, quesadilla, and sizzling squid. They also offer popular international dishes like pad thai, nasi goreng, kebab, and a lot more. See Frendz Restaurant Menu

Lime Resort Sky Bar

Head to Corong-Corong and dine at Lime Resort’s Sky Bar. It offers a breathtaking view of El Nido sunset so make sure you arrive early. You can try their pasta and pizza and a glass of your favorite drink.

Gusto Gelato

For your sweet cravings, head over to Gusto Gelato. They offer different flavors of gelato like dark chocolate, mint chocolate, salted caramel, and a lot more!

SAMPLE ITINERARY AND EXPENSES

Whether you are spending a weekend in El Nido or going all out the whole week, we got you covered. Most visitors to El Nido stay for at least 3 Days and 2 Nights. If you want to experience the best of El Nido, we suggest you stay at least 5 days 4 nights so you can do all the tours as well as visit other equally gorgeous beaches on the mainland.

3D2N Itinerary

If you have a tight schedule and can only stay on the island for 3 days and 2 nights, we highly suggest you take Tour A and then visit Nacpan Beach and Maregmeg Beach. If you are adventurous and love hiking, you can also take an early hike to the peak of Taraw Cliff. Yes, you can do all of these in 3D2N. See detailed 3D2N El Nido itinerary

4D3N Itinerary

Staying on the island for 4 days and 3 nights is the most common itinerary for local tourists. If you have this much time, you can take 2-3 island hopping tours depending on your departure from the island. Ideally, we suggest you take two tours: Tour A and Tour C then visit Nacpan Beach and Maregmeg Beach. You can also hike to the top of Taraw Cliff if you are an adventurous traveler. If you’re leaving El Nido at night on your last day, you can take the Tour B. See the detailed 4D3N El Nido itinerary

5D4N Itinerary

You can go all-in with El Nido Tours with a 5D4N itinerary for as long as you leave the island late afternoon or at night on your last day. Experience the best of the island by joining Tour A which highlights the Big Lagoon; Tour B island escapades; Tour C for hidden beaches; and Tour D for the Small Lagoon and Cadlao Lagoon. See detailed 5D4N El Nido itinerary

Expenses for 5D4N

• Airfare from Davao to Puerto Princesa (fly-through with 20kg baggage via Cebu Pacific): Php4,700
• Breakfast at NAIA: Php300
• Van transfer Puerto Princesa to El Nido: Php700
• Lunch along the way to El Nido: Php150
• Accommodation at Alocasia Hostel (Triple room with breakfast for 3 nights): Php5,760/3= Php1,920
• Van rental to Nacpan Beach: Php3,700/3 (Cheaper if you go by trike) Php1,233 each
• Meals and drinks at Nacpan Beach Php200
• Dinner at Art Cafe: Php500
• Tour B: Php1,300/head
• Trike to Maregmeg and back to the town proper: Php300 (Php150 one-way) Php100 each
• Dinner at Frendz Resto: Php440
• Tour C: Php1,400/head
• Dinner by the beach at Bundatan Restaurant: Php1400/3=Php467 each
• Cocktail at Tribu Kuridas Php200
• Tour A: Php1,200/head
• Trike to Lime Resort: Php70/2=Php35
• Overnight at Lime Resort El Nido: Php5,000/3=Php1,667 each
• Early dinner at Lime Skybar: Php2,200/3=Php733 each
• Trike Fare from Lime to Mcdo: Php300/3 (roundtrip)= Php100 each
• Late night snack to McDo in Maregmeg Php150
• Van transfer from El Nido to Puerto Princesa: Php700
• Airfare from Puerto Princesa to Manila (using CEB Travel Pass): Php900
• Airfare from Manila to Davao (using CEB Travel Pass): Php1,200

Total Expenses : Php20,295 Expenses without airfare : Php13,495

If you are traveling on a tight budget, you can reduce your expenses to only around Php11,000 plus airfare. Just stay in a hostel for the whole duration of your trip. We moved to Lime Hotel on our last night so our expenses have gone up a little bit.

Tip: Travel with at least one companion and you will spend even less. If you are traveling solo, you can also opt to stay in hostels with shared rooms.

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

Thank you for reading! We hope you find our El Nido Travel Guide useful. Consider following us on our social media channels for travel updates and travel inspirations.

Facebook :  https://www.facebook.com/escapemanila Twitter :  https://twitter.com/escapemanila

Got any questions? Want more travel stories and inspiration? Follow us on IG: @escapemanila

escapemanila

Glen Nomad is a travel blogger and the founder of Escape Manila, one of the top travel blogs in the Philippines. He has visited all 82 provinces in the Philippines and has explored 53 countries across Asia, North & South America, East Africa, Europe, and Australia. Follow him on IG at @escapemanila

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El nido itinerary: 10 best el nido tourist spots and things to do (palawan travel guide blog 2024 for first-timers).

Looking for top things to do in El Nido, tourist spots and places to visit in Palawan? Check this out this EL NIDO TRAVEL GUIDE BLOG with a ₱7,000 DIY Itinerary, Resorts, Tour Packages, Trip Budget and Expenses to help you plan your trip!

2024 el nido travel guide blog for first-timers (updated) - things to do in el nido, tourist spots & places to visit, when is the best time to visit el nido, how many days to spend in el nido.

Hello #PuertoPrincesa #Palawan! ❤️ #ThankYou #AirAsiaPH for the safe flight! 😎 A photo posted by Pinoy Adventurista (Mervz) 🇵🇭 (@pinoyadventurista) on Dec 8, 2016 at 4:41pm PST

HOW TO GET TO EL NIDO?

Manila to puerto princesa to el nido, puerto princesa to el nido via shared van, the shared van transfer is inclusive of:.

• One-way shared transfer service to El Nido
• Hotel pick up
• English speaking driver
• Insurance provided by operator

PUERTO PRINCESA TO EL NIDO VIA PRIVATE VAN

Direct flight from manila to el nido, coron to el nido by ferry, eco tourism development fee, what to bring when traveling to el nido.

• Light and Breathable Clothes - as a tropical country, the weather in El Nido is most of the time hot and humid. I suggest that you wear light and breathable clothes. Depending on the season, also bring an umbrella, a light jacket, a windbreaker or raincoat for the occasional rain showers.
• Swimwear - island hopping is one of the most popular things to do when traveling to El Nido, Palawan. Be sure to bring your swimwear to fully enjoy the islands and the beaches of El Nido.
• Sun Block - always wear sun block when exploring the islands. Please use coral-friendly sunblock only.
• Aqua Shoes - always wear a pair of aqua shoes to protect your feet when exploring the islands and the lagoons. Be careful and avoid the sharp rocks when exploring the lagoons. A good pair of aqua shoes is definitely a must-have.
• Action Camera or Water-proof Camera - don't forget to bring a waterproof camera to document your precious travel moments. An action camera is highly recommended!

IS IT SAFE TO TRAVEL TO EL NIDO?

Good morning. See you in a bit #PuertoPrincesa, #Palawan! ❤️ #ThankYou #AirAsiaPH A photo posted by Pinoy Adventurista (Mervz) 🇵🇭 (@pinoyadventurista) on Dec 8, 2016 at 2:33pm PST

WHERE TO STAY: HOTELS AND RESORTS IN EL NIDO

Top-Rated Family-friendly Hotels and Resorts in El Nido

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• Island Hopping with lunch buffet in one of the islands. Island hopping tours are called "Tour A," "Tour B," "Tour C," etc. To get the best out of your trip, the most recommended tours for first-timers in El Nido are Tours A and C.
• Book DISCOUNTED El Nido Tour A Here!
• Book DISCOUNTED El Nido Tour B Here!
• Book DISCOUNTED El Nido Tour C Here!
• See El Nido town from Taraw Peak √ SEE RATES AND BOOK HERE!
• Beach Bumming, sun bathing, snorkeling and free diving
• Discover Scuba Diving Experience in El Nido √ SEE RATES AND BOOK HERE!
• Walk around town
• Food trip! Indulge in fresh seafood.
• Get a relaxing massage √ BOOK A MASSAGE HERE!
• Sunset watching at Corong-Corong and Marimegmeg Beaches
• Souvenir Shopping
• Side trip to San Vicente, Palawan
• Just 2.5 hours away from El Nido, a side trip to San Vicente's islands, beaches, tourist spots and attractions may be added in your El Nido itinerary. For ease and convenience, you may avail these San Vicente tour packages:
• San Vicente Land Tour
• Port Barton Island Hopping Tour
• Boayan Island Tour in San Vicente

OTHER THINGS TO DO IN EL NIDO (TOURIST SPOTS AND ATTRACTIONS)

• Beach Bumming at Nacpan Beach and Calitang Twin Beaches, dubbed as "The twin beaches of El Nido!"
• Walk on wooden path of the Mangrove Eco Park
• Explore around Yaposan Beach
• Scuba Diving
• Get wet at Nagkalit-kalit Waterfalls
• Trek to Makinit Hot Spring
• Explore Marimegmeg Beach
• Check out Pangulasian Island
• Visit Pinagbuyutan Island
• Explore Pinasil Island and Cathedral Cave
• Try the Bird's Nest soup
• Visit Kuyawayaw Waterfalls
• Enjoy Sibaltan Beach
• If you have more time and you want explore other worthy places outside El Nido, you can also visit Coron, Taytay, and Linapacan.
• Enjoy Lagen Island Resort Travel Bubble Package
• Experience Miniloc Island Resort Travel Bubble Package
• Enjoy an exclusive Huni Lio Resort Travel Bubble Package
• Overnight stay Seda Lio Stay with Breakfast Package

CHEAP AND AFFORDABLE EL NIDO TOUR PACKAGE

El nido tour a itinerary (rate: ₱ 900 per person).

• Hidden lagoon
• Shimizu Island
• Payong-payong Beach
• 7 Commando Beach

EL NIDO TOUR B ITINERARY (RATE: ₱ 1,100 per person)

• Snake Island
• Pinagbuyutan Island
• Pangulasian Island
• Cudugnon Cave
• Cathedral Cave

EL NIDO TOUR C ITINERARY (RATE: ₱ 1,250 per person)

• Helicopter Island
• Matinloc Shrine
• Secret Beach
• Talisay Beach
• Hidden Beach

EL NIDO TOUR D ITINERARY

• Cadlao Lagoon
• Paradise Beach
• Natnat Beach
• Small Lagoon

For other amazing guided tours, tourist spots, activities, and must-visit destinations in Palawan, PLEASE CLICK HERE .

EL NIDO DIY ITINERARY (4 Days and 3 Nights)

Day 1 - arrival in el nido / explore the town.

• 06:00 AM - 07:00 AM - Travel to Puerto Princesa City from Manila
• 07:30 AM - Arrive at Puerto Princesa City Airport
• 08:00 AM - 01:00 PM - Travel from Puerto Princesa to El Nido [ BOOK HERE! ]
• 02:00 PM - Arrive at El Nido, Check-in at the hotel or resort √ Click here to see the list of hotels & resorts in El Nido!
• 03:00 PM - Explore the town, Eat, Sunset Viewing
• 09:00 PM - Sleep

DAY 2 - EL NIDO TOUR A - BOOK HERE!

• 07:00 AM - Breakfast
• 08:30 AM - Start of Tour A
• Small lagoon or Big lagoon
• 04:30 AM - End of Tour A
• 07:00 PM - Dinner, Party, Have some drinks
• 09:00 AM - Sleep

DAY 3 - EL NIDO TOUR C - BOOK HERE!

• 08:30 AM - Start Tour C
• Tapiutan Island
• 04:30 AM - End of Tour C
• 05:00 AM - Catch the sunset at Corong-Corong
• 07:00 PM - Dinner and souvenir shopping

DAY 4 - TARAW PEAK AND DEPARTURE

• 08:00 AM - Trek to Taraw Peak via Canopy Walk [ SEE RATES AND BOOK HERE! ]
• 09:00 AM - End of Taraw Peak trek
• 10:00 AM - Go back to the hotel, prepare for check out
• 11:00 NN - Check out and have lunch
• 01:00 PM - Travel from El Nido to Puerto Princesa City [ BOOK HERE! ]
• 06:00 PM - Arrive at Puerto Princesa Airport
• 08:00 PM - Travel back to Manila

If you have more time, you may also avail El Nido Tour B and El Nido Tour D . For more SAMPLE EL NIDO ITINERARIES for 3, 4, 5, 6, Days Tour or more, PLEASE CLICK HERE .

Today's #sunset from Corong-corong beach #ElNido #Palawan! ❤️ A photo posted by Pinoy Adventurista (Mervz) 🇵🇭 (@pinoyadventurista) on Dec 12, 2016 at 1:56am PST

IS EL NIDO A BUDGET FRIENDLY DESTINATION?

Is it okay to travel solo in el nido, is there an atm in el nido, el nido budget and expenses.

• Van from Puerto Princesa to El Nido - PHP 500.00 per person
• Accommodation for 3 nights - 2,500 per night for 6 pax, total of PHP 7,500.00
• Food expenses - PHP 3,000 per person for 4 days
• Eco-Tourism Development Fee (ETDF) - PHP 200.00 per person
• Matinloc Shrine Entrance Fee - PHP 100.00 per person
• Big Lagoon Entrance Fee - PHP 200.00 per person
• As part of the implementation of the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) Resolution No. 2017-051, effective 1 Dec 2018, guests must pay an additional and entrance fee to enter the Big Lagoon

Standard Join-in Island Hopping Tour Rates:

• Tour A - PHP 1,200 per person
• Tour B - PHP 1,300 per person
• Tour C - PHP 1,400 per person
• Tour D - PHP 1,200 per person
• Kayak Rental - PHP 400.00
• Souvenirs - PHP 100.00 - 500.00
• Transportation around town - PHP 800.00 for 4 days
• Shared Van from El Nido to Puerto Princesa - PHP 500.00 per person
• Terminal Fee (Puerto Princesa Airport) - PHP 200.00

EL NIDO SAMPLE EXPENSES FOR ₱7,000 PESOS BUDGET

• You will be traveling in a group of 2.
• Your maximum budget for food is PHP 250 per meal per person.
• You will be staying in a budget hotel for 1,500 pesos per night for 2 persons with breakfast. That's 4,500 pesos for 3 nights / 2 = 2,250 per person.

Breakdown of Expenses

Day 1 - arrival in el nido.

• Shared Van Puerto Princesa to El Nido - PHP 500.00 per person
• Lunch - PHP 250.00 per person
• Tricycle to Corong Corong Beach - PHP 200.00 (2-way for 2 persons)
• Dinner - PHP 250.00 per person

TOTAL - PHP 1,100 per person

Day 2 - el nido tour a.

• Breakfast - complimentary
• El Nido Tour A - PHP 900.000 per person
• Lunch - included in the tour

TOTAL - PHP 1,150 per person

Day 3 - el nido tour c.

• El Nido Tour C - PHP 1,250.000 per person

TOTAL - PHP 1,500 per person

Day 4 - taraw cliff and departure.

• Tricycle to Taraw Peak - PHP 100.00 / 2 = 50.00 per person
• Taraw Peak Canopy Walk - PHP 500.00 per person (with guide)
• Tricycle back to hotel - PHP 100.00 / 2 = 50.00 per person
• Shared van to Puerto Princesa - PHP 500.00 per person

TOTAL - PHP 1,200 per person

• Accommodation (3 nights) - PHP 2,250 per person
• Day 1 - PHP 1,100 per person
• Day 2 - PHP 1,150 per person
• Day 3 - PHP 1,500 per person
• Day 4 - PHP 1,200 per person

GRAND TOTAL - PHP 7,200 per person

• Round trip airfare Manila-Puerto Princesa-Manila
• Puerto Princesa terminal fee
• Transportation in and out of the airport
• Budget for pasalubong and tips
• Food expense for snacks
• Other miscellaneous expenses such as kayak rental, etc.

Enjoy that #Cloud9Moment with the feel-good chocolate goodness of Jack ‘N Jill Cloud 9 and get a chance to win a Cloud 9 gift pack and an Instax Kit! Details here: bit.ly/cloud9moment A photo posted by Pinoy Adventurista (Mervz) 🇵🇭 (@pinoyadventurista) on Dec 13, 2016 at 12:09am PST

Where to get Best Affordable Island Hopping Tour in El Nido?

Northern hope tours.

• E-mail: [email protected]
• Mobile Numbers: (+63) 939-902-2216 (Smart) (+63) 927-735-3221 (Globe) (+63) 942-375-2441 (Sun)
• Facebook: facebook.com/NorthernHopeTours
• Website: www.northernhopetours.com

El Nido Travel Requirements? What do you need to travel to Palawan?

There you have it my top things to do in el nido, tourist spots and best places to visit in palawan i hope this first-timer's travel guide to el nido palawan with sample diy itinerary, budget, and expenses help you in planning your el nido palawan adventure enjoy and have fun in el nido, palawan.

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7 comments :.

Very helpful guide. Thank u for this!

Sir. What's the price range of air fare? Thank you.

Thank you for sharing this itenerary

Wow! Thank you so much for sharing. We might follow your itineraries.

Hi. Question does tour A realli includes big and small lagoon? Do they charge 200 pesos for each lagoon?

Hi question. does tour A includes both big and small lagoon. do they charge 200pesos for each lagoon?

very helpful indeed!

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