How Much Is an El Nido Trip in 2026? (Complete Budget Guide + Package Comparison)

If you're planning a Palawan getaway, one of the most common questions is: how much is an El Nido trip in 2026?

Whether you're traveling DIY or looking for an El Nido tour package with airfare included, this complete guide breaks down the real travel costs — flights, hotels, tours, transfers, and more.

If you're a busy professional who wants a stress-free vacation, this guide will help you decide the smartest option.

Why El Nido Is One of the Best Travel Destinations in the Philippines

El Nido, Palawan is famous for crystal-clear lagoons, dramatic limestone cliffs, white sand beaches, and unforgettable island hopping tours. It remains one of the top local destinations for Filipino travelers in 2026.

From Big Lagoon to Secret Beach, El Nido offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country.

Airfare Cost to El Nido in 2026

There are two main ways to reach El Nido.

Option 1: Fly to Puerto Princesa

Round-trip airfare from Manila to Puerto Princesa typically ranges from ₱3,000 to ₱8,000 per person,n depending on seat sales and season.

From Puerto Princesa, you will need a van transfer to El Nido. The travel time is around 5 to 6 hours. Van transfers cost around ₱600 to ₱800 per person one way, or ₱1,200 to ₱1,600 round-trip.

Option 2: Direct Flight to El Nido

Direct flights are more convenient but more expensive. Round-trip airfare usually ranges from ₱6,000 to ₱12,000 per person.

Hotel Accommodation Cost (3 Nights)

Budget hotels range from ₱1,200 to ₱2,500 per night.

Mid-range hotels range from ₱3,000 to ₱6,000 per night.

For 3 nights, accommodation may cost between ₱3,600 to ₱18,000 for 2 people depending on your hotel choice.

El Nido Island Hopping Tour Prices

El Nido is known for four main island hopping tours: Tour A, Tour B, Tour C, and Tour D.

Joiner tour rates typically range from ₱1,200 to ₱1,400 per person.

Mandatory fees include:
Eco-Tourism Development Fee – ₱400 per person
Lagoon User Fee – ₱200 per person

The estimated total for tours is around ₱1,600 to ₱2,000 per person.

Food and Miscellaneous Budget

Daily food budget ranges from ₱500 to ₱1,000 per day.

For 4 days, expect to spend ₱2,000 to ₱4,000 per person on food.

Other possible expenses may include tricycle transfers, kayak rental, snorkeling gear, and souvenirs.

Total DIY El Nido Travel Budget (4D3N)

Here is the realistic estimate for 2026.

Per person: ₱10,000 to ₱18,000
For 2 pax: ₱20,000 to ₱36,000

This requires booking flights separately, reserving your own hotel, arranging transfers, and coordinating tours on your own.

Is an El Nido Tour Package with Airfare Worth It?

Instead of booking everything separately, many travelers choose an El Nido tour package with airfare included.

For example, Trixified Travel offers a 4D3N El Nido package that includes:

Roundtrip airfare
3 nights hotel accommodation
Airport transfers
Joiner Tour A
Daily breakfast

All for ₱20,000 for 2 pax.

When comparing DIY costs versus a package, the value becomes clear. A package saves time, reduces stress, and keeps your budget fixed.

Customization options are also available depending on your travel dates, preferred hotel upgrades, and add-on tours.

Sample 4D3N El Nido Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival
Airport pickup, travel to El Nido, and hotel check-in.

Day 2 – Island Hopping
Tour A including Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, and 7 Commandos Beach.

Day 3 – Free Day
Relax at the beach or add optional tours.

Day 4 – Departure
Breakfast, check-out, and transfer back to the airport.

Best Time to Visit El Nido

The best months to visit are November to May during the dry season.

June to October may have occasional rain but usually offers fewer crowds and lower airfare.

Final Thoughts: DIY or Travel Package?

DIY travel is ideal if you enjoy planning and monitoring seat sales.

A travel package is better if you are a busy professional who wants everything arranged in advance, with no stress and no surprise costs.

Book Your El Nido Tour Package Today

If you are looking for an affordable El Nido tour package with airfare included, Trixified Travel can arrange everything for you.

Hassle-free booking
Budget-friendly options
Customizable packages

Deserve mo ’to with Trixified Travel.

Message us today to check available travel dates for 2026.