El Nido to Manila

About the ride from El Nido to Manila

After your stay in the paradise of El Nido, you might think that all good things must eventually come to an end. However, that’s not true. You’re about to continue your journey and visit Manila, the fun capital of the Philippines.

When traveling the 407 kilometer (253 mile) distance between El Nido and Manila, you have one option – booking a direct flight. The flight lasts around 1 hour and 20 minutes, but keep in mind that early arrival at the airport is necessary. The check-in counter usually closes 45 minutes before the scheduled departure time. The operators don’t offer pick up and drop off services, and you’ll have to plan this out on time by yourself. The plane cabins are modern and well-equipped with AC and toilets on board.

When going from El Nido to Manila, you’ll be departing from the El Nido Airport and arriving at Ninoy Aquino Domestic Airport, terminal 4. If you’re heading from the airport to the tourist center of the city, known as Makati or Manila City, you’ll need additional transportation. You can choose between a taxi or a public bus. If you choose the public bus, you’ll have to go from terminal 4 to terminal 1, 2, or 3 via airport shuttle, and wait for the bus there.

Once you arrive in Manila, you’ll notice that the city resembles any other metropolitan place in the world. However, the capital of the Philippines is a unique place! If you pay closer attention, you’ll notice the Spanish influence on every corner, combined with Filipino culture. While staying here, don’t miss out on some of the tastiest local and street food in the world, numerous historical sites, and amazing museums.

 

What to see when traveling from El Nido to Manila?

What you’re able to see out your plane window (if you manage to grab that window seat!) depends on what time of the day your flight leaves, as well as the weather. If you’re lucky enough, and all of these criteria are met, you’re in for a real treat. You’ll be flying above the sea and a few islands. Prepare yourself for endless blue colors, and the sea and sky fighting over whose color is prettier.

In case you don’t have a chance to enjoy the beautiful views, you can relax with a book, or have a quick nap. After a bit more than an hour, you’ll arrive in Manila, the highly urbanized and most densely populated city in the world.

There are many things to see and do in Manila, and no matter how long you decide to stay, we’re sure you’ll find something new, fun, and exciting to do. If this is your first time visiting Manila, your first stop should be Intramuros, the historic “Walled City”. Intramuros used to be the colony’s center with walls built around it to protect it from invasions. Today, the center has an old-town charm, cobbled streets, and old houses built in the Spanish style, restored and made into museums, churches, and parks.

Manila is also home to the world’s oldest Chinatown, Binondo, where you should go if you want to try some of the tastiest street food! As the sun goes down, head to the Manila Baywalk for a beautiful sunset over the Manila Bay. You can take a light stroll along the Roxas Boulevard, or enjoy the stunning views from some of the cocktail bars. 

Another popular attraction in Manila is the Rizal Park, which is very close to Intramuros. The park is dedicated to Jose Rizal, the country’s national hero. This is one of the largest urban parks in Asia, and also a very popular spot where locals like to come and relax. The historical site also has two beautiful gardens, statues of other national heroes, and the Kilometer Zero, the city’s point of origin.

Manila has many more attractions, so these are just the tip of the iceberg.

 

How to get from El Nido to Manila

Taking a plane

Traveling from the beautiful El Nido to the capital of the Philippines, Manila, is fast and easy when booking a flight. The plane ride is short, and only takes 1 hour and 20 minutes. However, a short flight doesn’t mean you won’t get wonderful service and a comfortable ride. All planes have modern cabins and are equipped with toilets and air conditioning on board.

The tickets cost $232, with the checked baggage included in the ticket price. The checked baggage includes 20 kg per passenger, 1 cabin bag of up to 7 kg, and 1 laptop bag or 1 handbag on board. The flight operators don’t offer additional services such as pick ups and drop offs, and this is something you’ll have to plan before your flight.