How to Get to El Nido from Manila: 4 Practical Travel Options for Every Type of Traveler

Planning a trip to the stunning white sand beaches of El Nido in Palawan? Whether you prefer the speed of a direct flight, the scenic route through Puerto Princesa, or an adventurous ferry journey, we’ve got you covered. This guide provides all the details you need to get to El Nido from Manila smoothly and enjoyably. Let’s dive into your options and help you choose the best one for your dream getaway!

1. Direct Flights from Manila to El Nido

The quickest route to El Nido is by taking a direct flight. AirSWIFT offers direct flights from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila to Lio Airport in El Nido, Palawan. The price starts at around PHP 5,000 for a one-way flight from Manila to El Nido, though it can vary depending on the season. These flights are quick, taking about 1.5 hours. In addition to flights from Manila, AirSWIFT also offers direct flights to Lio Airport from Cebu, Bohol, Clark, Boracay, and Coron.

2. Travel from Manila to Puerto Princesa with Land Transfer to El Nido

Flights from Manila to Puerto Princesa

One popular route to El Nido is to fly to Puerto Princesa and then travel by land to El Nido. Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and Philippines AirAsia offer frequent flights from Manila to Puerto Princesa. The flight takes about 1.5 hours and costs around PHP 4,000 for a round-trip fare. Prices may vary depending on the airline, booking date, and peak seasons.

Ferry from Manila to Puerto Princesa

For those who enjoy sea travel, taking a ferry from Manila is an option. 2GO Travel operates ferry services from Manila to Puerto Princesa, with one-way ticket prices starting around PHP 2,000; prices may vary depending on the booking date and peak seasons. While the journey takes approximately 26 hours, it offers a scenic and unique experience.

Land Transfer from Puerto Princesa to El Nido

Upon reaching Puerto Princesa, you have a variety of travel options to get to El Nido. Shared and private vans offer quick and direct routes, while local buses provide a more leisurely journey. For those seeking the fastest option, flights are available, though they are less commonly used and more expensive. Each choice presents its own way to experience the scenic beauty of Palawan. For a detailed guide on these Puerto Princesa to El Nido travel options, check out our comprehensive resource.

3. Flights from Manila to San Vicente with Land Transfer to El Nido

Flights from Manila to San Vicente

Another option is to fly to San Vicente Airport and then travel by land to El Nido. Since there are no direct flights from Manila to San Vicente Airport, you can fly from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila to Mactan-Cebu International Airport (Cebu Airport) with Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, or Philippines AirAsia, and then take a connecting flight with Cebgo Airlines to San Vicente Airport.

The flight duration from Manila to Cebu is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, and the connecting flight from Cebu to San Vicente takes about 1 hour and 55 minutes. Prices for this journey start at PHP 3,500 for a one-way trip, covering both flights. Prices may subject to change based on booking date, airline, and peak seasons.

Please note that there will be a layover in Cebu, and the duration of this layover can vary. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on flight schedules and durations, it’s best to check directly with the airline operators.

Alternative Route: Flying from Clark to San Vicente

Alternatively, you can fly to San Vicente with Sunlight Air. Although Sunlight Air was formerly based at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila, it has recently relocated its operations to Clark International Airport. Despite this change, it remains a viable and convenient choice for your journey.

Sunlight Air offers direct flights from Clark to San Vicente twice a week, with departures on Sundays at 11:00 am and Thursdays at 5:45 am. The flight lasts approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes. Fares start at PHP 1,500 for a one-way trip and may vary depending on the date of booking and seat availability.

To get to Clark International Airport from Manila, you have a couple of efficient options:

• Point-to-Point (P2P) Buses: Operated by Genesis Bus Corp., these buses are highly recommended for their efficiency. They make fewer stops, which helps reduce travel time.
  
• Victory Liner Bus Service: Runs frequently from Cubao, Quezon City, to San Fernando, Pampanga. With around 133 departures each week, it’s wise to check their schedule in advance, especially on weekends and holidays.
  
  

The journey typically takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, but if you’re coming from the southern provinces of Metro Manila, plan for an additional 2 hours, making the total travel time approximately 5 hours.

While the airline is no longer based in Manila, its services from Clark provide a straightforward route to San Vicente and, ultimately, to El Nido.

Land Transfer from San Vicente to El Nido

Once you arrive in San Vicente, whether you choose to fly from Manila or take the alternative route via Clark, you have several land transfer options to choose from. Here’s a brief guide to help you decide which option best suits your needs:

• Shared Van Transfers: Shared van transfers are a popular and budget-friendly choice. These typically involve traveling in a van with other passengers, offering a direct and comfortable route between San Vicente and El Nido. Shared transfers are known for their cost-effectiveness and reliability.
  
• Shuttle Services: For added convenience, shuttle services provide a more personalized travel experience. These services often offer enhanced comfort and may include additional amenities. They can vary in cost and duration, catering to different preferences for travel efficiency and comfort.
  
• Private Van Transfers: Private van transfers offer a higher level of customization. Ideal for those seeking privacy and flexibility, this option allows you to set your own schedule and enjoy a more tailored journey. Although more expensive, private transfers provide a direct route and personalized service.
  
  

Find More Information

For a detailed comparison of costs, durations, and specific service providers, please refer to our comprehensive guide on traveling from San Vicente Palawan to El Nido.

4. Travel from Manila to Coron with a Connecting Ferry Transfer to El Nido

Flights from Manila to Coron

If you prefer a quicker option, you can fly from Manila to Coron. Several airlines offer this service, including Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, Cebgo, Philippines AirAsia, and SkyJet. The flight takes about 1 hour. The cost for a round-trip ticket typically ranges around PHP 5,000, depending on the airline, booking date, and season.

Ferry from Manila to Coron

If you’re not in a hurry and want to enjoy a seafaring journey, consider taking a ferry operated by 2GO Travel from Manila to Coron. The trip takes about 12 hours, offering a leisurely way to experience the sea.

Ferry Transfer from Coron to El Nido

The most common way to travel between Coron and El Nido is by ferry, which connects these two beautiful destinations through a scenic route across Palawan’s seascapes. The Coron to El Nido ferry generally takes several hours, giving you plenty opportunity to appreciate the region’s natural beauty. To get detailed information on planning your trip, including current schedules, and ticket prices, refer to our comprehensive guide on the Coron to El Nido ferry.

Choosing the Best Travel Option

When deciding how to get to El Nido from Manila, consider these key factors to make your journey smoother.

• Time:
  • Direct flights: 1.5 hours (fastest option)
  • Flight to Puerto Princesa + land transfer: 6.5 to 7.5 hours
  • Flight to San Vicente + land transfer: Approximately 5 hours
  • Ferry to Puerto Princesa: 24 hours
  • Flight to Coron + ferry to El Nido: 5 hours (1 hour flight + 4 hours ferry)
  • Ferry to Coron + ferry to El Nido: 17 hours
    
    
• Cost:
  • Flights to Puerto Princesa: Generally cheaper
  • Puerto Princesa to El Nido: Shared van (cost-effective) or private van (more comfort, higher price)
  • Flights to San Vicente: Slightly more expensive, faster overall travel time
  • Ferry services: Less expensive than flights but much longer travel times
    
    
• Convenience:
  • Direct flights: Most convenient, no transfers needed
  • San Vicente route: Convenient shuttle service directly to El Nido
  • Ferry options: Scenic and unique, but more time-consuming
    
    

Booking Your Trip

Booking your trip can be done easily online. For direct flights, check the AirSWIFT Manila to El Nido schedule and prices on their website. For flights to Puerto Princesa, compare prices on the Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines websites. It’s a good idea to book early, especially during busy travel times, to get the best prices.

For land transfers from Puerto Princesa to El Nido, many travel agencies offer online bookings for shared vans or private transfers. You can also arrange these upon arrival at the Puerto Princesa Airport.

Getting Around El Nido

Once you arrive in El Nido, getting around is easy. Tricycles are the most common mode of transport within El Nido town and to nearby areas like Corong Corong. For exploring further, you can rent motorbikes or scooters. If you’re planning island hopping tours, local boats are readily available.

No matter how you choose to get to El Nido from Manila, remember to plan your itinerary well to make the most out of your stay in this paradise. Enjoy the serene beauty and adventure that El Nido, Palawan, has to offer!