| 6 mins read
By Jordan Higgins
El Nido in the Philippines is a traveller’s delight - unblemished white beaches, towering limestone cliffs, the Bacuit Archipelago, and an emerging food scene makes it a go-to destination for island hoppers and beach-goers. Located around 420 km southwest of Manilla, in the province of Palawan, there is much more to do in this picturesque region than simply laze around in the sun.
Here are the five best things to do in El Nido, and a few tips on how to make the most out of your trip to this tropical paradise.
1. Island-Hopping
If you have limited time in El Nido, you should definitely try to shoehorn an island-hopping tour into your itinerary. The area is renowned as one of the most amazing destinations for island hopping in all of Asia. Most island-hopping tours cost roughly the same amount, regardless of travel agency or company. There are four popular tours in El Nido – Tour A, B, C, & D - which can be booked online or through hostels and hotels, and usually include local tour guides, food, transport, and snorkelling equipment. All tours last around seven hours.
Tour A is the most basic package but ideal for those who will only be able to do one. It includes visits to hidden lagoons and famous, beautiful beaches, such as 7 Commando Beach, and those on Shimizu Island, famed for its snorkelling. This tour typically costs $24.
Tour B costs around $26. Highlights include visits to Snake Island, Cudugnon Cave, and Cathedral Cave. As with all of the tours, there are excellent opportunities for snorkelling and swimming.
Tour C costs $28. However, this tour takes you to several remote beaches and pristine snorkelling locations. Another highlight of this tour is Matinloc Shrine, tucked away in the Archipelago.
Tour D is less popular with tourists but equally enjoyable. It costs around $23 and brings tourists to Paradise Beach, Cadlao Lagoon, and NatNat Beach. This tour is ideal for relaxing on the white sand and snorkelling in the crystal waters.
Most travellers recommend trying all tours if possible but decide where you want to visit and choose your own itinerary based on your interests and time availability.
2. Water Activities
The clear, warm waters of El Nido are ideal for spotting the stunning marine life while snorkelling or scuba-diving. Tours can be organised in El Nido town, where local tour guides can give details of the wildlife as well as snorkelling advice. Kayak tours can also be arranged in El Nido. What better way to explore the limestone sea caves, remote beaches, and crystal clear waters than on a little kayak at your own pace?
3. Hiking
El Nido tourists often overlook the tremendous hiking opportunities available in favour of aquatic activities. The most idyllic of all hikes take you to the top of Taraw Cliff. The walk is quite strenuous but only lasts less than one hour. It is a relatively dangerous hike, so it is advised that you hire a local guide to show the safest route and to help you carry any bags. Bring some food and water, and you will be treated to a stunning view over the archipelago.
4. Pampering in Luxury Resorts
Although exciting and enjoyable, constant snorkelling, swimming, and hiking is exhausting. What better way to combat the fatigue than by treating yourself in one of the many luxury resorts in El Nido? With great food, Wi-Fi, and spa facilities, these resorts are an ideal way to beat the tiredness following a busy day outdoors. Travellers often recommend El Nido Bay View Resort and Cadlao Resort.
5. Nightlife
As tourists continue to pour into El Nido, the nightlife scene has grown exponentially. Beer is cheap, and the atmosphere is electric; a perfect way to close out your days of indulging in the natural splendour of the region. Tourist bars are great, but you should also try to get off the beaten path and find some local spots for a nice cold Red Horse Beer.
El Nido is truly a traveller’s delight. The stunning limestone scenery coupled with crystal clear waters make the region ideal for all sorts of aquatic and outdoor activities. Combined with knowledgeable tour guides, fabulous resorts and nightlife, and some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, there is something for everyone in El Nido.
Getting to El Nido
El Nido has become a tourist hub in recent years and is quite well linked to most major cities in the Philippines. There are daily direct flights from Manila to El Nido that take just over one hour. However, they tend to fill up quickly, so it is advised that you book well in advance. Another potential route to El Nido involves flying to Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan, and riding in a tourist van or bus for another five or six hours. Prices typically range from $10 to $15 per person, depending on the size of your vehicle.
Other cities such as Cebu and Coron have links to El Nido, although they are less developed than those from Manila and Puerto Princesa. Flights between Coron and El Nido are infrequent and quite expensive. To avoid this, tourists can travel by ferry from Coron, which costs around $26 and takes approximately 6 hours. Flights from Cebu run once or twice daily and cost about $190. Although expensive, this route is probably more favourable than a forty-hour, $90 ferry ride.
The dry season in El Nido runs between November and May. March, April, and May are the hottest months of the year where temperatures can reach 41°C. Be sure to consider the climate before organising your El Nido trip. You should budget at least three days for your trip, which can be extended based on your schedule. As transport is quite difficult to organise in this part of the Philippines, you should try to plan a rough itinerary in advance.
Jordan is a student journalist and avid traveller. He has a strong interest in Asian countries but will never say no to a European excursion. He is particularly fond of (although not very good at) trying new outdoor activities and adventure sports.