Getting to El Nido
Getting to El Nido is a journey in itself, but with a little planning, it can be smooth and stress-free.
Here are the most popular ways to reach our slice of paradise.
Option 1: Fly to Puerto Princesa (PPS) + Travel by Land (Most Popular)
This is the most common and budget-friendly route for most travelers. It combines a flight with a scenic overland journey.
Best For: Budget-conscious travelers, backpackers, and those who have a bit more time.
Our #1 Insider Tip:
Book your van or bus ticket in advance! After a long flight, the last thing you want to do is haggle with drivers or wait for a van to fill up. Booking online secures your seat at a fixed price and makes your arrival completely hassle-free.
Step 1: Fly into Puerto Princesa (PPS)
Book a domestic flight from Manila (MNL) or Cebu (CEB) to Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS). Major airlines like Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and AirAsia have multiple flights daily.
Step 2: Take a Van or Bus to El Nido
Once you land at PPS, you have a 5 to 6-hour land trip to El Nido. You have two main choices:
- Cherry Bus: This option offers more legroom than shared vans. For best comfort and faster trips, take the Lazyboy bus which has an onboard toilet. You can book directly at the Cherry Bus website.
- Shared Van: This is usually the more popular option. The vans are a little bit faster than the bus but be ready to compromise legroom. Vans often make a few stops along the way, so the journey can take a bit longer than advertised. You can compare fares at 12go.asia or use the search tool below.
Option 2: Fly Directly to El Nido (Fastest Option)
If you want to maximize your vacation time, this is the best way to go.
Best For: Travelers who prioritize convenience over cost, those on a shorter trip, or families with children.
The Direct Flight:
AirSWIFT (Cebu Pacific/CebGo) is the only airline that flies directly to El Nido’s Lio Airport (ENI). They have daily flights from Manila, Cebu, Clark, Coron, Boracay, and other destinations. The flight is quick, and the airport is beautiful and efficient. From Lio Airport, it’s only a 20-minute ride to El Nido town proper.
Look for the best direct flight options using this tool:
Option 3: Travel by Sea from Coron
For those island hopping through Palawan, the ferry from Coron is a scenic and popular route.
Best For: Travelers doing the popular Coron-El Nido-Puerto Princesa circuit.
The Fast Ferry: Several companies run a fast ferry between Coron and El Nido. The journey takes approximately 4 to 5 hours, offering beautiful views of the islands along the way.
Important Tip: These ferries are very popular and can sell out, especially during peak season. We highly recommend booking your ticket at least a few days to a week in advance to secure your spot.
