Published on Mar 27, 2025 6 min read

Plan an Affordable El Nido Trip with This Budget Travel Guide

Often referred to as the ‘jewel of Palawan,’ El Nido is one of the most beautiful places in the Philippines due to its clear waters, cliffs of limestone, and beautiful islands. However, many travelers believe that coming to this paradise is expensive, and it is not true. Luckily, a budget travel to El Nido is very much achievable if you are wise enough to plan it well. There are other ways and means that will make your El Nido experience enjoyable without paying through your nose, such as cheap transportation and island-hopping trips. This guide will inform you on how to travel to El Nido cheaply based on places to eat, places to stay, and things to do that do not cost much.

How to Get to El Nido on a Budget

Cheap Transportation Options

The quickest and the most expensive means of getting to El Nido is by flying to El Nido Airport from Manila. But to cut costs, one has to fly to Puerto Princesa so as to take advantage of the promo fares offered by Cebu Pacific and AirAsia. Getting to El Nido is easy; by van or bus, it will cost around 500-700 PHP from Puerto Princesa. The other way is to take a ferry from Coron, which will cost less than PHP 2,000 as well. Another way of reducing the cost of transport in order to have an affordable El Nido trip is by booking the tickets early in advance and traveling during off-peak seasons.

Best Time to Visit for Budget Travelers

This has to do a lot with the choice of the period of the year when you decide to travel to El Nido because it does make a cheap El Nido trip even cheaper. Shoulder season for traveling to El Nido is May to June and September to November, which is cheaper in terms of accommodation rates. This implies that travelers who avoid such months as December to April can have an opportunity to book cheaper airline tickets, cheaper hotel bookings, and even cheaper tour prices. Similarly, smaller crowds enhance the possibility of bargaining the cost of accommodation and tours around the islands. However, there are lots of rain showers all throughout the season, but you can make the most of the cheap prices on offer by taking on an El Nido budget travel experience.

Affordable Places to Stay in El Nido

Budget Hotels and Hostels

There are many cheap hotels in El Nido that offer accommodation to backpackers and cheap tourists. Hostels and guesthouses in town offer dormitory beds for as low as PHP 300 per night. Accommodations that can be described as cheap hostels with shared facilities include Spin Designer Hostel and Frendz Hostel. Pre-booking and searching for online offers can be beneficial for the travelers, as it may offer them better and cheaper options. Also, the majority of the hostels provide free breakfast, which will also reduce the cost of meals even further. For instance, if you are traveling in a group, it is also advisable to share a room in a cheap hotel in order to get an El Nido vacation at a relatively cheap price.

Camping and Alternative Stays

For nature lovers, beach camping is an exciting and cost-effective alternative to hotels. Some resorts and local communities offer camping spots for a small fee, providing a unique experience with stunning seaside views. Additionally, homestays and budget Airbnbs allow travelers to experience local hospitality while cutting down costs. These alternatives are often more affordable than hotels and come with kitchen access, allowing guests to prepare their meals. For long-term travelers, renting a simple nipa hut or an apartment can be a great way to enjoy an El Nido budget travel lifestyle without the high price tag of resorts.

Cheap and Delicious Food in El Nido

Local Carinderias and Street Food

Dining in El Nido doesn’t have to be expensive. Budget travelers can enjoy authentic Filipino food at local carinderias, where meals cost around PHP 50–150. Dishes like adobo, sinigang, and grilled fish are popular, offering a taste of Filipino cuisine at an affordable price. In addition, street food stalls serve snacks like banana cue, lumpia, and fish balls for less than PHP 20 per piece. Eating at these small eateries instead of touristy restaurants can save you money while allowing you to enjoy the flavors of Palawan. Exploring local food spots is a must for a cheap El Nido trip.

Saving Money on Food Expenses

Travelers can reduce food expenses by buying groceries and cooking their own meals. Some hostels and guesthouses provide communal kitchens where guests can prepare simple dishes. Additionally, dining in groups and sharing meals at local restaurants can help save money. Another trick is looking for restaurants that offer combo meals or "boodle fights," where multiple people can share a large meal at a lower price. Avoiding overpriced beachfront restaurants and instead eating at local eateries away from the main tourist area ensures a more affordable El Nido vacation while still enjoying delicious Filipino food.

Budget-Friendly Activities and Island Hopping

Affordable Island Hopping Tours

Island hopping is the highlight of any El Nido trip, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. Travelers can save money by choosing group tours rather than private boats. Booking through local operators instead of hotels also ensures lower prices. Tour packages, such as Tour A (lagoons and beaches) and Tour C (hidden islands), are among the most affordable, costing around PHP 1,200–1,400, including lunch. Some budget travelers even join Facebook groups to find people to split private boat costs. With the right approach, you can enjoy El Nido’s breathtaking islands without overspending on your cheap El Nido trip.

Conclusion

Exploring El Nido on a budget is not only possible but also rewarding. By choosing budget-friendly transportation, staying in affordable accommodations, dining at local eateries, and prioritizing free activities, travelers can enjoy a cheap El Nido trip without sacrificing adventure. Planning ahead and avoiding tourist traps are key to making the most of an affordable El Nido vacation. Whether you’re island hopping, beach camping, or simply enjoying the town’s vibrant atmosphere, El Nido offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler. Start your El Nido budget travel adventure today and explore the beauty of Palawan without breaking the bank..