El Nido – Where Paradise Meets Adventure

El Nido, nestled in the northern part of Palawan Island, is a jewel of the Philippines. Renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, it’s an archipelago paradise featuring towering limestone cliffs, crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine white-sand beaches, and hidden lagoons.

Palawan is often hailed as one of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines, and even one of the most breathtaking places on Earth. One of the island’s greatest assets is that, despite its popularity, it remains free from the throngs of tourists that one might encounter in, say, Thailand. The Philippines as a whole is less touristy and less commercialized, which is a refreshing change. Another huge plus is that the majority of the population speaks English fluently (it is, after all, their official language), making communication a breeze. This, in turn, contributes to the Filipinos’ warm and open nature, making it easy for them to strike up conversations with visitors from all over the world.

El Nido, the crown jewel of Palawan, offers a paradise unlike any other. Island hopping reigns supreme here. Explore hidden lagoons, dramatic limestone formations, and vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Popular tours , typically cost around ₱1,200 to ₱1,300 (US$21.50 to US$23) per person depending on the chosen tour and inclusions.

Beyond the tours you can discover El Nido’s stunning beaches. Nacpan Beach, a long stretch of pristine white sand and clear waters, is a haven for swimming and sunbathing, with an entrance fee of about ₱100 (US$1.80) per person. Las Cabanas Beach offers a more secluded escape with dramatic rock formations framing the shoreline. For those seeking serenity, a short hike leads to the beauty of Marimegmeg Beach.

If you crave an active adventure, explore the crystal-clear waters by kayak or paddleboard. Kayaks can be rented for around ₱300 (US$5.40) per hour, while paddleboards may cost around ₱500 (US$9) per hour, with prices varying depending on the shop and your bargaining skills.

The underwater world around El Nido is a kaleidoscope of life. Scuba diving and snorkeling are fantastic options. Prices typically start at around ₱1500 (US$27) for a fun dive and ₱3000 (US$54) for a discovery scuba dive with instruction for beginners. Snorkeling tours can be found for around ₱700 (US$12.50) per person.

El Nido town itself is a charming destination to explore. Wander through a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops. Savor local delicacies, fresh seafood, or international cuisine. Be sure to factor in the varying costs depending on your chosen restaurant and the type of food.

For a deeper cultural experience, take a cooking class and learn how to prepare delicious Filipino dishes like adobo, sinigang, and kare-kare. Cooking classes typically cost around ₱1,000 (US$18) per person and may include a visit to a local market to purchase fresh ingredients.

You are also more than welcome to delve into Palawan’s history with a visit to the Tabon Caves, an archeological marvel with ancient artifacts and chambers. The entrance fee is around ₱200 (US$3.60) per person.

This is just a taste of what awaits you in El Nido, Palawan. With its breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and friendly locals, El Nido promises an unforgettable escapade.

Getting to El Nido, the crown jewel of Palawan, depends on where you’re coming from in the Philippines. Here are the options:

From Manila:

• By Plane: The fastest way to get to El Nido from Manila is by plane. Several airlines offer daily flights from Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) to El Nido Airport (ENI). Travel time is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Flights can be expensive, especially during peak season, so booking in advance is recommended.
• By Bus and Ferry: A more economical option is to take a bus from Manila to either Coron or Puerto Princesa, followed by a ferry to El Nido. Travel time varies depending on the route and ferry connections, but can take up to a day.

From Other Philippine Cities– several airlines offer connecting flights to El Nido from other Philippine cities such as Cebu, Davao, and Iloilo.

Once in El Nido – El Nido is a relatively small town, so getting around is easy. You can walk to most places, or take a tricycle (motorized taxi) or habal-habal (motorcycle taxi). Tricycles are the most common mode of transportation in El Nido and can be flagged down on the street. Fares are negotiable, so be sure to agree on a price before getting in. Habal-habals are a good option for longer distances or if you’re traveling with a group. Again, negotiate the fare beforehand.

Here are some additional tips for getting to El Nido:

• Consider the time of year you are traveling. Peak season (December to May) is the busiest and most expensive time to visit El Nido. If you are on a budget, it is best to travel during the off-season (June to November).
• Book your flights and accommodation in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season.
• Be flexible with your travel dates. If you are flexible with your travel dates, you may be able to find cheaper flights and accommodation.
• Allow plenty of extra time for travel, as there can sometimes be delays due to weather or ferry cancellations.

Whether you crave the thrill of island hopping adventures or the serenity of secluded beaches, El Nido promises an unforgettable experience. Immerse yourself in crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, explore hidden lagoons and towering limestone cliffs, or simply relax on pristine white sand. Beyond its natural beauty, El Nido offers a glimpse into Filipino culture, with delicious cuisine and friendly locals. So pack your sense of adventure, a swimsuit, and an open mind, and get ready to discover your own slice of paradise in El Nido, Palawan.