El Nido, located on the island of Palawan in the Philippines, is a tropical paradise known for its white-sand beaches, clear waters, and beautiful limestone cliffs. It’s a favorite destination for travelers looking for adventure or relaxation. However, getting to El Nido can require a bit of planning due to its remote location. In this guide, we’ll explore the different ways to reach El Nido, whether you’re coming from within the Philippines or from abroad.
1. Flying to El Nido from Manila
The quickest and easiest way to reach El Nido is by flying from Manila, the capital of the Philippines. There are direct flights available to El Nido’s small airport, Lio Airport, which is located just a few minutes away from the town center. AirSWIFT is the airline that operates these direct flights, and the flight takes about 1.5 hours.
- Pros: The fastest way to get to El Nido with minimal travel time.
- Cons: Flights can be more expensive compared to other travel options.
2. Flying to Puerto Princesa and Taking a Van/Bus
Another option is to fly to Puerto Princesa, the capital city of Palawan, and then take a van or bus to El Nido. Flights to Puerto Princesa are often cheaper and more frequent, with many airlines offering daily flights from Manila, Cebu, and other cities.
Once you arrive in Puerto Princesa, you can take a shared van or a bus to El Nido. The van ride takes about 5-6 hours, while the bus takes around 6-8 hours. Vans are faster, but buses offer more legroom and a slower pace for those who prefer a more relaxed journey.
- Pros: More flight options and potentially lower costs.
- Cons: Longer travel time due to the road trip from Puerto Princesa to El Nido.
3. Ferry from Coron to El Nido
If you’re already in Palawan and visiting Coron, you can take a ferry from Coron to El Nido. Several ferry companies operate this route, and the travel time is about 3.5 to 4 hours. Ferries are a popular choice for those wanting to explore more of Palawan’s islands before heading to El Nido.
- Pros: A scenic way to travel between islands and experience the beauty of Palawan’s waters.
- Cons: The ferry schedule can be affected by weather conditions, and travel times can be longer if the seas are rough.
4. Flying to Cebu and Taking a Connecting Flight
If you’re coming from international destinations with limited direct flights to Manila, you can also fly to Cebu, another major city in the Philippines, and take a connecting flight to either El Nido or Puerto Princesa. Cebu is a popular gateway for international travelers, and flights to Palawan from Cebu are available on a regular basis.
- Pros: More flight options for international travelers.
- Cons: May require an extra connecting flight and layover time.
5. Private Flights or Charters
For travelers looking for convenience and luxury, private flights or charters to El Nido are available from various airports in the Philippines. This option is ideal for large groups or those who prefer a more personalized travel experience.
- Pros: Complete flexibility and comfort.
- Cons: The most expensive option by far.
Conclusion
There are several ways to get to El Nido, Palawan, depending on your budget and travel preferences. Whether you choose a direct flight, a scenic ferry ride, or a road trip across Palawan, reaching this beautiful destination is worth the journey. With its breathtaking scenery and crystal-clear waters, El Nido will be an unforgettable experience for any traveler.
