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El Nido is the gateway to Bacuit Bay in northern Palawan. Its limestone cliffs and hidden lagoons draw island-hoppers all year. The direct flight is the quickest way to get from Manila to El Nido, taking 2h 20m - 2h 50m. By sea, the direct ferry is the cheapest at $33 (2,010 PHP), but it will take a long time, around 1d 12h.
Distance from Manila to El Nido
Manila and El Nido are about 417 km (259 miles) apart, and the overland-and-sea journey covers around 623 km. The quickest way to get from Manila to El Nido is by taking the direct flight, which takes around 2h 20m - 2h 50m.
5 ways to travel from Manila to El Nido
There are five ways to travel from Manila to El Nido. You can choose between the flight + minivan via Puerto Princesa, flight, indirect ferry via Coron, ferry, and flight + minivan via San Vicente*. The journey takes 2h 20m–1d 12h and the quickest way is by flight. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by ferry with tickets starting at $33 (2,010 PHP).
2 legs — see itinerary
- Manila→Puerto Princesa1h
- Puerto Princesa (airport)→El Nido1h 20m
incl. transfers — see itinerary
- Manila City Centre to Manila Airport1h
- Manila to El Nido by Flight1h 30m
- El Nido Airport to El Nido Town by Tuk-Tuk20m
2 legs — see itinerary
- Manila→San Vicente1h 45m
- San Vicente, Palawan Island→El Nido4h 30m
Reach out to our Community
Manila to El Nido by Flight + Minivan via Puerto Princesa
You can reach El Nido by flying from Manila to Puerto Princesa. This is the most common option because it's cheap. It's not as fast as a direct flight, but still faster than taking a ferry. From Puerto Princesa Airport, you can continue by van to El Nido.
Airfares on this route are cheaper than direct flights from Manila to El Nido, making it possible to travel this journey from Manila to El Nido via Puerto Princesa for around $37 (2,280 PHP).
TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.
Step 1: Manila City Centre to Manila Airport
The easiest way to get to Manila Airport from anywhere in Metro Manila is by Grab car. Rates start from $3.70 (230 PHP) to Terminal 3 and $6.00 (370 PHP) to Terminal 2, depending on where you're coming from. You can also hail a taxi from the street. Just make sure the driver turns on the meter!
If you want to pre-book your transfer, Klook offers private rides with prices from $19 (1,170 PHP) for a 4-seater.
Alternatively, UBE Express operates point-to-point buses to several locations across Metro Manila to Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Here are the ticket prices:
- $2.40 (150 PHP) - from Pasay, Parañaque and Robinsons Manila
- $3.30 (200 PHP) - from Araneta City and Alabang
Check out our guide for Manila Airport for more details.
Step 2: Manila to Puerto Princesa by Flight
AirAsia, Cebu Pacific, and Philippine Airlines (PAL) offer multiple flights a day from Manila to Puerto Princesa. AirAsia and PAL depart from Terminal 2, while Cebu Pacific departs from Terminal 3.
The flight time from Manila to Puerto Princesa is about 1h 20m - 1h 35m.
Flight ticket prices start from $22 (1,350 PHP), but they usually go up the closer you get to the departure date.
TIP: Cebu Pacific and AirAsia offer many promotions annually. Keep an eye out for these seat sales to book a cheaper flight for this route!
Step 3: Puerto Princesa to El Nido by Minivan
At Puerto Princesa Airport, you can travel with several minivan companies, including Palajuanders Travel and Tours, Island View Travel, Eulen Joy Express and Fortwally. Minivan tickets start from $12 (710 PHP) and travel time from the airport to El Nido is about 5h - 5h 30m.
We recommend booking a van ride online beforehand so that you won’t have to worry about your transport. You can even check the reviews of van companies to be assured that you’re travelling with a trusted one.
Minivans are also available at the airport. Just head outside and you'll find drivers who will happily guide you to their minivans. If you’re not sure where to go, you can always ask the transport counter at the airport for assistance.
Note that there are reviews about the lack of legroom and the van not leaving on time. Unfortunately, these are common occurrences when taking a van in the Philippines.
Minivan tickets are available on Bookaway.
Booking Tip
Minivans and buses are not allowed to enter El Nido town due to its small roads. The drop-off point for shared vans from Puerto Princesa to El Nido is El Nido Transport Terminal. From here, a tricycle to the town centre costs $1.60 (100 PHP).
You can check out our route from Puerto Princesa to El Nido for more information.
Manila to El Nido by Direct Flight
The easiest and direct way to travel from Manila to El Nido is by a direct flight with either AirSWIFT or Cebu Pacific.
El Nido is a popular spot, but its airport has a short runway, so only small planes can operate here. That makes flight tickets quite expensive. But this is your best option if you’d rather save time than money.
TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.
Step 1: Manila City Centre to Manila Airport
Flights from Manila to El Nido depart from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Pasay City. AirSWIFT flights depart from NAIA Terminal 2, while Cebu Pacific (5J) flights depart from Terminal 3.
The easiest way to get to Manila Airport from anywhere in Metro Manila is by Grab car. Fares usually start at $3.70 (230 PHP) to Terminal 3 and $6.00 (370 PHP) to Terminal 2, depending on your pickup point. You can also flag down a regular taxi, just make sure the driver turns on the meter.
If you want to book ahead, Klook offers private rides with prices from $19 (1,170 PHP) for a 4-seater.
Check out our guide for Manila Airport for more details.
Step 2: Manila to El Nido by Flight
AirSWIFT and Cebu Pacific operate multiple direct flights from Manila to El Nido daily. The earliest flight schedule is at 04:45 with the last flight of the day at 18:00. Travel time takes around 1h 30m.
The best time to fly from Manila to El Nido is during the dry season, which runs from December to May. You’ll get the best weather for exploring, and one-way ticket prices usually start from $110 (6,700 PHP).
Although flights tend to be cheaper during the wet season (June to November), there’s a higher chance of rain. Since only small aircraft fly to El Nido, bad weather can lead to delays, reroutes, or even cancellations.
Step 3: El Nido Airport to El Nido Town by Tuk-Tuk
Direct Flight tickets are available on Skyscanner.
Manila to El Nido by Indirect Ferry via Coron
You can travel from Manila to El Nido by sea. It’s a much longer journey compared to the flight options, but if you like to make an adventurous trip, this is the way to go.
Like the flight, there are direct and indirect ferries for the Manila to El Nido route. Indirect ferries are faster. They make a stop in the beautiful Coron Island, so you can consider spending a few days there before continuing to El Nido.
Step 1: Manila to Coron by Ferry
2Go Travel operates direct ferries from Manila to Coron, taking around 13h. There’s just one trip a week — leaving every Friday from Manila North Harbour Pier 4. It’s an overnight journey, but the ferry’s pretty comfy and makes for a unique travel experience.
Economy tickets start at $46 (2,780 PHP), but prices vary based on how early you book and your seat class. You’ve also got the option to book directly on their official website.
2Go ferries dock at Coron Port.
Ferry tickets are available on Bookaway.
Step 2: Coron to El Nido by Fast Ferry
There are fast and slow ferries from Coron to El Nido, but your best option is to book a fast ferry that takes around 3h 30m - 3h 40m. You can choose between Phimal, Montenegro Shipping Lines, Atienza Interisland Ferries and Jomalia Shipping. Ferry ticket prices start from $45 (2,740 PHP).
You can read more about this route in our guide for Coron to El Nido or book your tickets online via BookAway.
Ferry tickets are available on Bookaway.
Manila to El Nido by Direct Ferry
If you're looking for a direct sea route to El Nido, Atienza Interisland Ferries is your only option from Manila.
The company runs a passenger-cargo ship that leaves Manila on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday, then arrives at El Nido after 1d 12h. Note that the day and time of departure vary every week. We recommend checking their Facebook page for the latest updates.
An economy class ticket costs $33 (2,010 PHP), while an airconditioned tourist class ticket costs $37 (2,250 PHP).
Departure and arrival ports
The Atienza ferry leaves from Baseco Port Area, which is accessible via taxi or Grab from anywhere in Metro Manila.
If you're coming from the province, it's best to take a provincial bus to Pasay or Parañaque. Once you’re there, just grab a taxi or book a Grab to the pier for around $6.20 (380 PHP) to $7.30 (450 PHP).
The ferry arrives directly at El Nido Ferry Terminal.
Direct Ferry schedule from Manila to El Nido
Direct Ferry tickets are available on Bookaway.
Booking Tip
Manila to El Nido by Flight + Minivan via San Vicente
*The last time we checked (June 2025), there were no available flights from Manila to San Vicente. Please click the link provided to see if anything has changed.
Looking for a more scenic route to El Nido? You can fly into San Vicente, a town about 2 to 3 hours away from El Nido.
The longest white sand beach in the Philippines is located here, so it’s also an emerging tourist destination in Palawan. Some travellers head to San Vicente first and stay a few days here before heading to El Nido.
Only Sunlight Air operates flights between Manila and San Vicente, and they also offer minivan transfers to El Nido for their passengers.
TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.
Step 1: Manila to San Vicente by Flight
Sunlight Air is the sole airline offering flights between Manila and San Vicente, with only two flights in a week. These flights depart at 11:00 on Sundays and at 05:45 on Thursdays.
Airfares start from $65 (4,000 PHP), but you can score tickets as cheap as $16 (1,000 PHP) during seat sales.
From Manila to San Vicente Airport, flights take 1h 45m.
Step 2: San Vicente to El Nido by Minivan
Since flights are only two days a week, public transportation is not regularly available and quite complicated. Booking private transportation, on the other hand, will make it an expensive trip.
The best option when travelling from San Vicente Airport to El Nido is the Sunlight Air shuttle.
Sunlight Air shuttle
In 2023, Sunlight Air started offering minivan transfers between San Vicente and El Nido for their passengers. Tickets cost $13 (785 PHP) per person, which you can book via their Facebook Page.
You will be dropped off at El Nido Bus Terminal, where you can take a tricycle to your hotel in the town centre.
Public transportation
We also asked some local tour operators for possible options when travelling from San Vicente Airport to El Nido by public transport.
Outside the airport, you can take an e-tricycle (electric tuk-tuk) to Roxas town. The 1-hour ride to Roxas Bus Terminal costs around $4.90 (300 PHP) per person, depending on your negotiation with the driver. At the terminal, vans and buses going to El Nido Bus Terminal depart daily.
You can also ask the e-tricycle driver to take you to the junction where buses and vans from Puerto Princesa to El Nido pass by. Minivan fares start from $6.50 (400 PHP), while buses would be a bit cheaper.
Private transport
If you prefer a private transfer, you can rent a private minivan with rates from $105 (6,600 PHP).
Private transport tickets are available on Bookaway.
Our favourite places to stay in El Nido
El Nido is all about stunning limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters and natural beauty. And that’s what our favourite stays in El Nido reflect!
There are a lot of awesome accommodations for all budgets to pick between in El Nido. Our favourite stays are places with the best views, incredible nature, stunning decor and amazing staff.
Before you start reading about our favourite stays, it’s good to know a bit about the best areas to stay in El Nido, so that you’re picking the best accommodation in the area that’s right for you.
- El Nido Town is where you’ll find most of our favourite stays. It’s the main tourist area in El Nido, and where you’ll find the ferry point. Nice and convenient!
- Corong-Corong is a quieter area located just south of El Nido Town and is known for its beautiful sunsets and picturesque beach.
Treat YourselfCadlao Resort and Restaurant
Area: Next to El Nido town — 10-minute walk to town centre
Your only negative comment about this place is that you wish you’d stayed longer. This place really is the tropical island resort that you’ve been dreaming of.
The infinity pool overlooks the sea, there are palm trees everywhere and the service is incredible. Here you’ll get to enjoy your own spacious cottage, with some of them opening up right onto the beach.
- Three swimming pools
- Beach-side bungalows
- Incredible views
- Tasty breakfast included
Double rooms start from $150 per night
Treat YourselfDuli Beach Resort
Area: Duli Beach — around 1-hour to El Nido town
There’s no better way to start your day than drawing back the curtains and seeing the ocean right there. That’s exactly what you can get at Duli Beach Resort. Their spacious bungalows with private terraces are set right on the beach.
The remote location means that a lot of the time you’ll have the beach to yourself. You also don’t have to worry about finding food or a drink as the hotel’s on-site restaurant and bar will undoubtedly satisfy you. If you want to head to El Nido town, it’s just under an hour's drive away.
- Right on the beach
- Secluded location
- Amazing staff
- Delicious breakfast included
Double rooms start from $50 per night
Mid-RangeSpin Designer Hostel
Area: El Nido town — only a 5-minute walk around the town and beach
You might have guessed by the name, Spin Designer Hostel has been designed to perfection. It’s so nicely and creatively designed that you probably wouldn’t expect it to be a hostel.
The great thing about staying in a hostel, whether you’re in a private room or the dorms, is that there’s often great facilities. Spin Designer Hostel has a shared kitchen with BBQ facilities, a games room and a terrace surrounded by the forest. How about enjoying your complimentary breakfast here?
- Stylish and modern hostel
- Great amenities
- Delicious breakfast included
- Private and dorm rooms
Double rooms cost $30-$50 per night
Mid-RangeHutch Lodging House
Area: Next to El Nido town — approx. 20-minute walk to El Nido beach and town centre
Hutch Lodging House brings the outside inside. With most of the hotel being open-air and plants scattered throughout, there’s a very relaxing ambience here. You also have the option to relax on your own private balcony as every room has one.
It’s beautifully designed! The hotel is only a 10-minute walk from town — far enough that you get peace and quiet, but not too far.
- Great location
- Beautiful design
- Air conditioning
- Every room has a private balcony
Double rooms cost $30-$50 per night
BudgetBale Cabugao Cottages
Area: Near El Nido town - approx. 10-minute walk to El Nido beach and town centre
Only steps from the beach, all you have to do is stand on the balcony at Bale Cabugao Cottages to hear the sound of the waves. Imagine eating your breakfast with this view! Great news: it’s included in the price.
The hosts go out of their way to help you organise anything in El Nido. Their energy is also guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.
- Incredible views
- Great location
- Helpful and happy hosts
- Comfortable rooms
Double rooms $15-$30 per night
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Why Visit El Nido?
El Nido is Palawan Island's northernmost tip, popular around the world as the gateway to paradise — the Bacuit Archipelago. This group of picture-perfect limestone islands boasts white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, enchanting lagoons, and beautiful underwater.
El Nido's town centre leaves much to be desired with its mediocre beach, narrow streets, and mostly backpacker and mid-range hostels. But the island-hopping adventures from here are some of the best you will see in the world. Outside town, you should also include in your El Nido itinerary a visit to Nacpan-Calitang Beach and a hike to Taraw Peak.
Rounding it up
That's the full picture for getting from Manila to El Nido, roughly 417 kilometres (259 miles) apart. In all, there are 5 ways to make the trip. The cheapest fare is $33 (2,010 PHP). The quickest trip takes 2h 20m.
Prices and timetables change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel. Have a question, or travelled this route recently? Ask the community below and we'll do our best to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the distance from Manila to El Nido?
The distance from Manila to El Nido is 417 kilometres (259 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Manila to El Nido?
The fastest way to get from Manila to El Nido is by flight and takes 2h 20m - 2h 50m.
What is the cheapest way to get from Manila to El Nido?
The cheapest way to get from Manila to El Nido is by ferry with ticket costs starting from 2,010 PHP.
About the Authors
Travel Writer
Abby is a writer who finds joy in mountains, beaches, and road trips. She considers her solo backpacking trip to the rice terraces of Bontoc one of the most fulfilling moments in her life. She's loyal to the islands of her home country, the Philippines, but Thailand's beaches also have a special place in her heart.
Senior Travel Writer
Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she's not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines. Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she'll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
Travel Writer
A writer and full-time mom who loves planning beach trips. London is her favourite destination.
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Ferry Schedule Notice
Ferry schedules can change due to weather, sea conditions, or seasonal adjustments. We recommend confirming departure times directly with the operator, especially during monsoon season.
