5 Days Trip in El Nido, Palawan, Philippines
El Nido, located in the province of Palawan in the Philippines, is a tropical paradise that offers breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and a vibrant marine life. With its stunning beaches, limestone cliffs, and hidden lagoons, El Nido is a dream destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. In this article, we will provide you with a detailed itinerary, local cuisine recommendations, accommodation suggestions, transportation options, packing list, budget considerations, language and cultural etiquette tips, off-the-beaten-path experiences, and frequently asked questions to help you plan your 5-day trip to El Nido.
Destination Highlights
Suggested Itinerary
| Day | Morning | Afternoon | Evening |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Island Hopping Tour A: Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon | Lunch at a local beachfront restaurant | Sunset at Nacpan Beach |
| Day 2 | Island Hopping Tour C: Matinloc Shrine, Hidden Beach, Tapiutan Island | Lunch on the boat | Dinner at a seafood restaurant |
| Day 3 | Explore El Nido town: Visit the market, walk along the beach, try local street food | Lunch at a local eatery | Sunset cruise |
| Day 4 | Island Hopping Tour B: Snake Island, Cudugnon Cave, Pinagbuyutan Island | Lunch on the boat | Dinner at a beachfront restaurant |
| Day 5 | Free day: Relax at the beach, go snorkeling, or try water sports | Lunch at a beachside cafe | Farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant |
Realistic Time Management
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Day 1:
- Morning: Island Hopping Tour A (Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon) - 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- Afternoon: Lunch at a local beachfront restaurant - 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
- Evening: Sunset at Nacpan Beach - 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
-
Day 2:
- Morning: Island Hopping Tour C (Matinloc Shrine, Hidden Beach, Tapiutan Island) - 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM
- Afternoon: Lunch on the boat - 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
- Evening: Dinner at a seafood restaurant - 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
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Day 3:
- Morning: Explore El Nido town - 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
- Afternoon: Lunch at a local eatery - 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
- Evening: Sunset cruise - 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
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Day 4:
- Morning: Island Hopping Tour B (Snake Island, Cudugnon Cave, Pinagbuyutan Island) - 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM
- Afternoon: Lunch on the boat - 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
- Evening: Dinner at a beachfront restaurant - 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
-
Day 5:
- Morning: Free day - Relax at the beach, go snorkeling, or try water sports
- Afternoon: Lunch at a beachside cafe - 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
- Evening: Farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant - 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Local Cuisine
- Famous local food: Adobo (marinated meat), Sinigang (sour soup), Halo-halo (mixed dessert)
- Recommended restaurants:
- El Nido Grill and Bar
- Artcafe
- Trattoria Altrove
Accommodation Recommendations
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Budget:
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Mid-range:
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Luxury:
How To Get There And Away
- By air: Fly to El Nido Airport from Manila or Cebu. Flight duration is approximately 1 hour.
- By land and sea: Take a bus or van from Puerto Princesa to El Nido. Travel time is around 5-6 hours.
Comprehensive Packing List
- Clothing: Swimwear, light and breathable clothes, hat, sunglasses
- Footwear: Flip-flops, water shoes, comfortable walking shoes
- Toiletries: Sunscreen, insect repellent, toiletries, towel
- Electronics: Camera, power bank, waterproof phone case
- Others: Snorkeling gear, beach mat, reusable water bottle, dry bag
Budget Consideration
a. The standard cost of living per person per day in El Nido is approximately $50-$100, depending on your lifestyle and accommodation choice.
b. Relevant costs (excluding accommodation):
- Island hopping tours: $20-$30 per person per tour
- Meals: $5-$15 per meal
- Transportation: $5-$10 per day
- Entrance fees: $5-$10 per attraction
c. Tips for saving money:
- Eat at local eateries and street food stalls
- Join group tours instead of private tours
- Bargain at souvenir shops and markets
Language and Cultural Etiquette
- Language: English and Filipino are widely spoken in El Nido. Learn a few basic Filipino phrases to communicate with the locals.
- Cultural Etiquette: Respect the local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and remove your shoes before entering.
Some Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
- Explore the hidden beaches and lagoons of El Nido by renting a kayak and paddling through the turquoise waters.
- Hike to the top of Taraw Cliff for a panoramic view of El Nido and its surrounding islands.
- Visit the Nagkalit-Kalit Waterfalls and take a refreshing dip in the natural pools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is the best time to visit El Nido? A: The best time to visit El Nido is during the dry season from November to May, when the weather is sunny and the seas are calm.
Q: Are there any safety concerns in El Nido? A: El Nido is generally a safe destination, but it's always advisable to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Follow the instructions of your tour guides and avoid swimming in areas with strong currents.
Q: Can I drink tap water in El Nido? A: It is recommended to drink bottled water in El Nido to avoid any potential stomach issues.
Conclusion
El Nido, Palawan, is a tropical paradise that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and adventure. With its stunning beaches, hidden lagoons, and delicious local cuisine, El Nido is a dream destination for travelers seeking a memorable getaway. Plan your 5-day trip to El Nido and immerse yourself in the beauty of this tropical paradise.
Now, get inspired by watching these videos of El Nido:
