How to Get to El Nido from Cebu: Complete Travel Guide

If you’re planning a trip to El Nido, Palawan, and need to travel from Cebu, you’re in the right place. El Nido, renowned for its breathtaking limestone cliffs, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters, is a dream destination. In this guide, we’ll cover how to get to El Nido from Cebu, exploring all the travel options to help you choose the best route for your journey.

1. Direct Flights from Cebu to El Nido

The most convenient way to reach El Nido, Palawan from Cebu is by taking a direct flight. AirSWIFT, a boutique airline, offers direct flights from Mactan Cebu International Airport to El Nido Airport (Lio Airport). The flight duration is approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, making it the fastest way to reach your destination.

• Airlines: AirSWIFT
• Flight Duration: 1 hour and 40 minutes
• Ticket Price: Prices start around PHP 6,000 for a one-way trip., depending on the season and how early you book a flight.
• Booking Tips: To get the best deals, book your flight ticket well in advance. Prices can vary, so it’s a good idea to compare options and find the cheapest rates.
  
  

2. Flights from Cebu to Puerto Princesa with Land Transfer to El Nido

Another popular option is to fly from Cebu International Airport to Puerto Princesa and then take a land transfer to El Nido. Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines both offer multiple flights daily from Cebu to Puerto Princesa.

• Airlines: Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines
• Flight Duration: About 1 hour and 25 minutes
• Ticket Price: Prices start at around PHP 800 to PHP 1,000 for a one-way trip but can increase depending on the season, demand, and airlines you prefer.
  
  

Once you arrive in Puerto Princesa, getting to El Nido is straightforward with three transfer options available. The Puerto Princesa to El Nido Transfer includes:

• Vans: Known for their speed and convenience.
• Buses: Offer a more relaxed journey.
• Flights: The quickest but more expensive option, and less commonly used.
  
  

Each choice allows you to enjoy the scenic beauty of Palawan on your way to El Nido.

3. Flights from Cebu to Coron with Ferry Transfer to El Nido

For a more adventurous route, consider flying from Cebu to Coron, as there are no direct ferries between Cebu and Coron. After reaching Coron by flight, you can take a ferry to El Nido. Note that Cebgo Airlines and Philippine Airlines operate flights from Cebu to Busuanga Airport in Coron. If you’re coming from Manila, you have the option of either flying or taking a ferry to Coron.

• Airlines: Cebgo Airline
• Flight Duration: Around 1 hour and 30 minutes
• Ticket Price: Prices start at approximately PHP 1,600 for a one-way trip and may vary depending on the season, demand, and the airline you prefer.
  
  

From Coron, you’ll need to take a ferry ride which is the most popular choice for traveling between Coron and El Nido. This journey offers a picturesque route through Palawan’s stunning waters, making it both convenient and visually rewarding. The trip typically lasts several hours, allowing you to take in the breathtaking scenery. For those interested in planning their ferry journey from Coron to El Nido, our comprehensive guide provides up-to-date schedules, ticket prices, and useful tips.

4. Flights from Cebu to San Vicente with Land Transfer to El Nido

Flying to San Vicente is another option. Though less common, this route is increasingly popular among travelers looking for an alternative way to reach El Nido. San Vicente is closer to El Nido than Puerto Princesa, which means a shorter land transfer.

• Airlines: Cebgo Airline
• Flight Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 55 minutes
• Ticket Price: Prices start at around PHP 2,500 and may vary depending on the season and demand.
  
  

According to Rappler, starting October 24, Cebu Pacific will launch a new route from Cebu International Airport to San Vicente, Palawan, making it even more convenient to reach El Nido from Cebu. This new route provides travelers with more options, especially for those looking to explore the less crowded areas of Palawan before heading to El Nido.

Once you arrive in San Vicente from Cebu, there are three main land transfer options to get to El Nido:

• Shared Vans: A budget-friendly choice, perfect for those looking to share the ride with other travelers while keeping costs low.
• Private Vans: Ideal for groups or families seeking a more personalized and flexible journey with privacy and convenience.
• Shuttle Services: A balanced option that offers scheduled departures, combining comfort with affordability.
  
  

For a detailed look at these land transfer options, check out our guide, “From San Vicente Palawan to El Nido: A Detailed Travel Guide.”

• Booking Tips: This route is ideal if you’re looking to explore more of Palawan beyond just El Nido. With Cebu Pacific’s new route, it’s also a great option for those who prefer flying with a budget airline.
  
  

Alternative Travel Routes and Combinations

There are other less common routes that involve multiple modes of transportation, such as flying to Manila first and then taking a direct flight from Manila to El Nido or Puerto Princesa. However, these options tend to be more time-consuming and can be more expensive.

For budget travelers, finding the cheapest combination of flights and transfers might be key. Use flight comparison websites to check for deals and consider booking separate tickets if it saves you money.

Tips for Choosing the Best Travel Option

When deciding on the best way to get to El Nido from Cebu, consider the following:

• Budget: Direct flights are usually more expensive but save you time. If you’re on a budget, consider the Cebu to Puerto Princesa route.
• Time: If you’re short on time, the direct flight from Cebu to El Nido is the best choice.
• Convenience: Consider how comfortable you are with long land transfers or ferry rides. Some routes offer more convenience than others.
• Season: During peak season, flights and transfers can book up quickly, so plan and book your tickets early.
  
  

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the fastest way to get to El Nido from Cebu? 

A: The fastest way is to take a direct flight from Mactan Cebu International Airport to El Nido, with AirSWIFT. The journey lasts roughly 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Q: How much does it cost to fly from Cebu to El Nido? 

A: Flight ticket prices start around PHP 6,000 for a one-way trip, but this can vary depending on when you book.

Q: Are there budget options for getting to El Nido from Cebu? 

A: Yes, flying to Puerto Princesa and taking a van or bus to El Nido is usually the most budget-friendly option.

Q: Can I take a ferry directly from Cebu to El Nido? 

A: There is no direct ferry from Cebu to El Nido, but you can fly to Coron and take a ferry from there.

Conclusion

When considering how to get to El Nido from Cebu, you’ll find several routes, each offering distinct advantages. Whether you prioritize speed, cost, or a combination of both, there’s an option that fits your needs. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey to this breathtaking destination, plan ahead, especially during peak travel seasons. With the right preparation, your trip from Cebu to El Nido will be as memorable as the destination itself.