Palawan Island : El Nido

After one night in Puerto Princesa I took a van for a 6 hours drive to reach El Nido. There is no sleeping buses or night vans so the best option is to leave Puerto Princesa on the morning. The bus station in El Nido is really close to the city center. A tricycle to join your guesthouse or the city center will cost you 50PHP (1€). If you want to reach it by yourself it’s up to you. You can do it in 20 minutes by walking but the hot weather dissuaded me.

El Nido is a small town and the most famous touristic place in Palawan Island. As soon as you’ve done a boat tour you understand why. Landscapes, sunsets, beaches, snorkeling and diving in untouched places, beach restaurants, seafood, bars, night life. El Nido has everything that makes tourists and travelers happy. Even if this is quite expensive for a backpacker style.

A boat tour is a mandatory to enjoy the beauty of Philippines Islands. You will enjoying snorkeling in lagoons and close to beaches. At noon, the boat staff are cooking for you fish, squids, chicken, rice and fruits. You will enjoy your meal on the beach with a fresh coconut. A real taste of paradise.

Because of his popularity it seems difficult to find a cheap place to stay. I was lucky to not visit El Nido during the busy season and I notice few goods guesthouses with cheapest prices in town :

Alexzus Backpackers hostel – 800PHP for a room

Francisco Inn – 600PHP for a room

Hakuna Matata – 500PHP for a room

Places to eat and hanging out:

Little Italy : really good Italian food – amazing pizza – the chef was living and working in Italy for few years. Go for it !

Reggae Puka Bar : place to eat and drink. Good burgers and Burritos. Live reggae music at night

Makulay Bar and Restaurant : A peace place to stay. Expensive if you have a small budget but they organize live concerts and free outside movies and the beer is 60PHP.