Getting There

Three airports, a handful of ferry routes and a lot of van time. How to choose an entry point based on where you’re actually going.

Fig. — A small propeller aircraft taxiing on a runway surrounded by forest

01The three entry points

Most people fly into Puerto Princesa (PPS). It has the most flights from Manila and Cebu and is usually the cheapest option — but El Nido is five to six hours north by road.

El Nido’s Lio airport (ENI) is small and served by a limited number of turboprop flights from Manila. It costs more, but it saves you most of a day. Baggage allowances are tighter.

For Coron, fly into Busuanga (USU). It’s a separate island group — don’t plan to “pop over” from El Nido without allowing for a ferry day.

02By sea

Ferries and fast craft link El Nido and Coron for most of the year; crossings take roughly four to eight hours depending on the vessel. Schedules change with the season and the weather — confirm locally the day before.

In habagat season (roughly June to October), expect cancellations. Build a buffer day into any itinerary that depends on a boat.

03What we tell friends

Fly to PPS unless your time is worth more than the fare difference to ENI.
Never schedule an international flight on the same day as a boat crossing.
Carry cash for terminal fees and small vendors — card acceptance drops fast outside Puerto Princesa.

Field Notes

Guide updates arrive with the weekly dispatch.