El Nido, Palawan: A Dream Come True! 🇵🇭
Still dreaming of the turquoise waters, towering limestone cliffs, and breathtaking sunsets of El Nido, Palawan.
This video is a little glimpse into all the incredible memories made – from island hopping adventures to hidden lagoons.
If you're planning your own trip to this slice of paradise, here's a quick guide based on my experience!
Getting There from Manila (or anywhere in the Philippines):
* Fly to El Nido (ENI): The fastest way!While often more expensive PHP 5,500 - 7,500 one-way, but can be higher depending on demand), it saves a lot of travel time.
* Fly to Puerto Princesa (PPS) + Van: A more budget-friendly option. Fly from Iloilo (ILO) to Puerto Princesa (PPS). From PPS, take a comfortable 5-6 hour shared van ride to El Nido. Vans typically cost around PHP 500 - 600 per person. You can also find buses, which are slightly cheaper but take longer.
El Nido Boat Tours:
El Nido is famous for its island hopping tours (A, B, C, D), each visiting different stunning spots. Prices are per person for shared tours and generally include lunch, water, and an accredited guide.
* Tour A: (Lagoons & Beaches) Often the most popular, visiting iconic spots like Big Lagoon/Small Lagoon (there's an additional PHP 200 fee for Big/Small Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Secret Lagoon, and 7 Commando Beach.
Around PHP 1,200 - 1,300 per person.
* Tour B: (Caves & Secluded Islands) Explore Cudugnon Cave, Snake Island, Pinagbuyutan Island, and Cathedral Cave.
Around PHP 1,300 - 1,400 per person.
* Tour C: (Hidden Beaches & Shrines) Discover Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, Matinloc Island (Matinloc Shrine has an optional PHP 200 fee), and Helicopter Island.
Around PHP 1,400 - 1,500 per person.
* Tour D: (Less Crowded Spots) Often includes Cadlao Lagoon, Pasandigan Beach, Paradise Beach.
Around PHP 1,200 - 1,300 per person.
Important Notes for Tours:
* Environmental Fee (Eco-Tourism Development Fee - ETDF): A one-time fee of PHP 400 per person, valid for 5 days, typically paid upon arrival or before your first tour. Keep the receipt!
* Kayaks/Snorkeling Gear: Kayak rentals are usually an additional PHP 300 for two people at the lagoons. Snorkeling gear might be included in some tours or available for rent (around PHP 100-150).
* Private Tours: If you're with a group and prefer flexibility, private tours are available for around PHP 9000 to 12000+ per boat depending on the boat and tour inclusions.
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