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 stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and a plethora of activities for travelers to enjoy. Whether you're a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or simply looking to relax on pristine beaches, El Nido has something for everyone. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Island Hopping Tour A: Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Secret Lagoon | Lunch at a beachfront restaurant | Sunset cruise |
| 2 | Island Hopping Tour C: Hidden Beach, Matinloc Shrine | Lunch at a beachfront restaurant | Dinner at a local seafood restaurant |
| 3 | Explore Nacpan Beach | Lunch at a beachfront restaurant | Sunset at Nagkalit-Kalit Waterfalls |
| 4 | Island Hopping Tour B: Snake Island, Cudugnon Cave | Lunch at a beachfront restaurant | Dinner at a beachfront restaurant |
| 5 | Explore El Nido town | Lunch at a local eatery | Departure |
Realistic Time Management
Day 1:
- Island Hopping Tour A: Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Secret Lagoon (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
- Lunch at a beachfront restaurant (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM)
- Sunset cruise (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM)
Day 2:
- Island Hopping Tour C: Hidden Beach, Matinloc Shrine (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
- Lunch at a beachfront restaurant (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM)
- Dinner at a local seafood restaurant (7:00 PM - 9:00 PM)
Day 3:
- Explore Nacpan Beach (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
- Lunch at a beachfront restaurant (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM)
- Sunset at Nagkalit-Kalit Waterfalls (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM)
Day 4:
- Island Hopping Tour B: Snake Island, Cudugnon Cave (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
- Lunch at a beachfront restaurant (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM)
- Dinner at a beachfront restaurant (7:00 PM - 9:00 PM)
Day 5:
- Explore El Nido town (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
- Lunch at a local eatery (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM)
- Departure
Local Cuisine
- Adobo: A popular Filipino dish made with meat (usually pork or chicken) marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and spices, then braised until tender.
- Kinilaw: A traditional Filipino ceviche made with fresh raw fish or seafood marinated in vinegar, calamansi juice, onions, ginger, and chili peppers.
Recommended Restaurants:
- Beachfront Grill and Restaurant
- Seafood Paradise
- El Nido Corner
Accommodation Recommendations
Budget:
Mid-Range:
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
- Swimwear
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Insect repellent
- Beach towel
- Waterproof bag
- Snorkeling gear
- Hiking shoes
- Light and breathable clothing
Budget Consideration
a. The standard cost of living per person per day in El Nido is around $50-$100, depending on your lifestyle and activities.
b. Relevant costs (excluding accommodation):
- Island hopping tours: $20-$30 per person per tour
- Meals at beachfront restaurants: $10-$20 per person per meal
- Local eatery meals: $5-$10 per person per meal
- Sunset cruise: $20-$30 per person
- Nagkalit-Kalit Waterfalls entrance fee: $5 per person
c. Tips for saving money:
- Opt for local eateries instead of beachfront restaurants for some meals.
- Share expenses with fellow travelers by joining group tours.
- Book accommodations and tours in advance to take advantage of early bird discounts.
Language and Cultural Etiquette
- English is widely spoken in El Nido, but learning a few basic Filipino phrases such as "hello" (kamusta) and "thank you" (salamat) can go a long way in showing respect to the locals.
- When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering.
- Respect the environment by not littering and following responsible tourism practices.
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.
- Take a hike to Taraw Cliff for a breathtaking panoramic view of El Nido town and its surrounding islands.
- Visit the nearby Nacpan-Calitang Twin Beaches for a more secluded and serene beach experience.
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 visa requirements for visiting El Nido? A: Most nationalities can enter the Philippines visa-free for up to 30 days. However, it is always best to check with your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information.
Q: Is it safe to drink tap water in El Nido? A: It is recommended to drink bottled or filtered water in El Nido to avoid any potential stomach issues.
Conclusion
Fun Fact: El Nido is home to over 50 white sand beaches and crystal-clear lagoons, making it a true tropical paradise.
In conclusion, a 5-day trip to El Nido, Palawan, Philippines, offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Follow our suggested itinerary, indulge in local cuisine, choose accommodation based on your budget, and immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes and warm hospitality of El Nido. Start planning your dream trip to El Nido today!
Watch this video to get a glimpse of the breathtaking beauty of El Nido.
