Everything worth knowing before you land
Twelve guides written from the ground, updated for 2026.
Getting here
Every route in, and what each one really costs.
The ultimate El Nido arrival guide
Clark to Lio in 1h35m, Puerto Princesa overland in five to six hours, the Coron ferry.
Airport transfers and getting around
Tricycle day rates, shared vans, and when a private transfer is worth it.
Cherry Bus, vans and ferries compared
₱800–₱1,000 either way. Legroom versus an hour saved.
Planning and money
How long to stay, and what to bring in cash.
El Nido budget 2026: the real cost breakdown
₱3,000–₱4,500 a day solo; ₱9,700–₱19,000+ per head for a group of six.
How many days in El Nido do you need?
Four is the sweet spot: one island day, three on land.
Itineraries
Plans that survive contact with the weather.
Five days in El Nido for a barkada of six
Two tours, two beach days, one long night on Calle Hama.
Family-friendly El Nido with kids
Shorter boat days, calmer beaches, and where the hot water is reliable.
Green season: rain or shine
What still runs when the sea gets rough, and what to swap in.
On the ground
Eating, resting and the backup plan.
Island hopping cancelled? What to do
Waterfalls, town, and the inland day that saves a rough-sea morning.
