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Local Transportation

Local Transportation

Palawan, Philippines

Public Transportation: Tricycles

El Nido is small, so large public transit systems are not needed. Transportation focuses on individual and small-group methods. The most common vehicle, and likely one you will use, is the tricycle. These operate on a point-to-point basis; there are no fixed routes like a bus system.

Tricycles operate throughout the day and into the late evening. They are especially abundant in the town center, meaning you will rarely wait long. They are a frequent sight on the roads.

Tricycle Usage & Tips

  • Drivers know common spots: town center, Corong-Corong, Las Cabanas, Nacpan Beach, port.
  • No formal ticketing system; fares are negotiated before the ride to avoid misunderstandings.
  • Carry small PHP denominations, as drivers might not always have change.
  • Tricycles are not wheelchair accessible and can challenge travelers with mobility issues.

Typical Fares

Within El Nido town: ₱10-₱50 (shared) or ₱50-₱100 (private). To Las Cabanas/Corong-Corong: ₱100-₱150.

Nacpan Beach Trip

A round trip to Nacpan Beach costs ₱500-₱800, typically includes driver waiting time.

Tricycle Safety

Choose tricycles with proper registration. Avoid overloading (safest with 1-2 passengers). Ensure driver appears sober.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Local Taxi Service
  • Traditional metered taxis are not available in El Nido.
  • Tricycles serve as the main private hire vehicle for tourists and locals.
  • You can hail tricycles anywhere or find them at popular spots.
Ride-Sharing Apps
  • Ride-sharing apps like Grab or Uber are NOT available in El Nido.
  • Local transportation relies on tricycles and private arrangements only.
  • Payment is almost always cash, paid directly to the driver at the ride's end.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Not common for local movement in El Nido due to narrow roads. More feasible from Puerto Princesa for island-wide travel.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Widely available from rental shops in El Nido town. Costs approximately ₱500-₱700 per day.

Bicycle Rentals

No formal sharing programs. Some accommodations offer rentals for short distances or quiet areas.

IDP Need

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is needed for car or motorcycle rental, in addition to your home country's license.

Motorcycle Rental Safety & Driving

Motorcycles offer freedom but come with safety considerations. Roads outside El Nido town can be unpaved, dusty, or muddy. They can be challenging, especially after rain.

Rental Requirements

  • A valid driver's license, preferably with a motorcycle endorsement.
  • Some shops may rent without one, but this is illegal and risky in case of accidents.
  • Always have your license and IDP with you when driving.
  • Helmets are usually provided by shops and should always be worn.

Road Conditions & Hazards

  • Main roads in El Nido town are paved. Roads to remote beaches are often unpaved and rough.
  • Accidents are common due to road conditions and varying driving habits; exercise extreme caution.
  • Drive on the right side of the road. Traffic laws are sometimes loosely observed.
  • Parking is limited; motorbikes are typically parked on roadsides.

Walking & Cycling

  • El Nido town center is compact and very walkable.
  • The area around Corong-Corong Beach is also walkable.
  • Self-guided walks are easy in town; guides are available for treks like Taraw Cliff.
  • Limited dedicated bicycle infrastructure; cyclists share roads with tricycles.
  • Exercise extreme caution due to traffic and varying road conditions.
  • Avoid walking or cycling on unlit roads at night.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses/Hop-on-Hop-off

No specific tour buses or hop-on-hop-off services in El Nido. Vans or jeeps are part of package tours or private hire.

Boat Taxis/Water Transport

Island hopping tours use traditional Bangka boats. Private boat charters are available for flexibility or specific islands.

Accessibility

El Nido is not highly accessible for travelers with mobility needs. Uneven terrain and boat transfers can present challenges.

Travel from Manila/Cebu to El Nido/Coron

For most international travelers, your journey to El Nido or Coron will involve a domestic flight from Manila (MNL) or Cebu (CEB). These major Philippine hubs serve as connection points. After arriving at MNL or CEB, you will then transfer to a domestic flight or other transport.

Connecting via Manila MNL

  • Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) has multiple terminals.
  • AirSwift flights to El Nido (ENI) typically depart from NAIA Terminal 4.
  • Terminal transfers might be needed; allow ample time between connecting flights.
  • Manila can experience heavy traffic, consider this for transfers.

Connecting via Cebu CEB

  • Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) is a modern and efficient hub.
  • AirSwift also flies direct from Cebu to El Nido (ENI).
  • Cebu often presents a smoother transfer experience compared to Manila.
  • Flights to Puerto Princesa (PPS) are also frequent from Cebu.

Flight Search & Deals

Flight Search Engines

Use Skyscanner to compare prices from various airlines for both international and domestic legs.

Skyscanner.com

Flight Deal Alerts

Subscribe to services like Dollar Flight Club for notifications on discounted fares to the Philippines.

DollarFlightClub.com

Car Rental Aggregators

If renting a car in Puerto Princesa, use DiscoverCars.com to compare options and prices from different providers.

DiscoverCars.com

E-SIM for Connectivity

E-SIM Benefits
  • Stay connected without switching physical SIM cards.
  • Local data plans can be cheaper than international roaming.
  • Activates digitally; no need to search for local stores.
Where to Get E-SIMs
  • Airalo is a popular provider for international eSIMs, including for the Philippines.
  • Purchase and activate before you arrive for immediate connectivity.
  • Check your phone's compatibility with eSIM technology before purchasing.

Online Travel Services

  • For visa applications, consider services like IVisa (consumer service) or VisaHQ (direct service).
  • AirHelp assists with compensation for delayed or canceled flights.
  • For anti-theft bags and travel security, explore Pacsafe products.
  • Find first aid supplies at Adventure Medical Kits.
  • For online security while traveling, consider VPN services like NordVPN or ExpressVPN.
  • For camera and electronics retail, B&H Photo is a resource.
  • General retail needs, including clothing and gear, can be found on Amazon or Nordace for bags.
  • For car rentals, check DiscoverCars.com.

Booking Tip

During high season, flights, especially to El Nido Lio Airport (ENI), become significantly more expensive and book up quickly.

Consider booking well in advance to secure better prices and availability.