Leaving El Nido for Manila can be done by a small direct flight from El Nido’s airstrip, or the cheaper route via a van to Puerto Princesa followed by a larger flight.
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Option 1: Direct Flight (Fastest)
Small carriers like AirSWIFT fly direct between El Nido and Manila.
- Flight time: ~1 hour 20 minutes
- Price: from $90-160 one-way
- Frequency: daily, limited seats
🎟️ Search El Nido → Manila flights tickets on 12Go →
Option 2: Van + Flight via Puerto Princesa (Cheaper)
Take a van to Puerto Princesa, then a regular flight to Manila on Cebu Pacific or Philippine Airlines.
- El Nido → Puerto Princesa (van): ~5-6 hours
- Puerto Princesa → Manila (flight): ~1 hr 20 min
- Best for: budget travellers
🎟️ Search El Nido → Puerto Princesa vans tickets on 12Go →
Journey Summary
| Option | Time | Cost from | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direct flight | 1h 20m | $90 | Speed, limited time |
| Van + flight via PP | ~7-8 hrs total | $50 combined | Budget |
Where to Stay in Manila
See our Manila guide for accommodation, or if arriving late, an airport-area hotel makes for an easy overnight before onward travel.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Should I book the El Nido direct flight in advance?
Yes — seats are limited on the smaller direct flights, and prices rise as departure approaches.
Is the van to Puerto Princesa comfortable?
Reasonably so on the main operators, though the coastal road has plenty of curves — some travellers get carsick.
Can I combine this with a Coron stopover?
Yes — some travellers take the Coron-El Nido ferry beforehand, then fly out of either island depending on flight availability.
Related Guides
- Manila to Palawan (Puerto Princesa): Flight Guide
- Coron to El Nido: Ferry Guide
- Philippines Travel Guide
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