El Nido Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit El Nido?

El Nido's climate consists of two seasons: generally dry (tag-araw), from December to May, and wet (tag-ulan), from June to November.

What languages do the locals speak?

Local residents speak Tagalog and the local dialect of Cuyunon. Most locals understand English and can speak it, at the very least, in bits and pieces.

What are the roads like from Puerto Princesa to El Nido?

Most of the way has been paved, but the last hour is still gravel only and makes for a bumpy ride. The route no longer experiences flooding as in years past.

What kind of food should I expect to find in restaurants?

Restaurants typically serve seafood as their specialty, although a wide range of food is available in the different restaurants in town. Meat dishes are available, although more rare.

Is there 24-hour electricity in El Nido?

Currently, electricity runs for 16 hours a day (2pm to 6am), although the electric company has a reputation for being inconsistent in being able to provide the daily schedule.

Is Wifi available on most establishments?

Yes, most of the hotels provides free WiFi Internet access for guests, --for as long as the internet service provider is not down.

What banks or ATMs are available in El Nido?

There is a local bank in El Nido (Palawan Consolidated Bank) but this accepts ATM cards from its own account holders only. The nearest bank or ATM is 5-6 hours away, in Puerto Princesa City. Monetary transactions/transfers are available at local pawnshops.

Where can I get my laundry done?

Laundry services can be found easily while walking around town. Laundry rate starts at PHP70.00 per kilo. Laundry is washed by hand, sun-dried, without ironing/pressing.

How can I make a call to loved ones?

The primary mode of communication in El Nido is by mobile phone (no traditional landline telephones). Cellular networks available are Globe Telecom and Smart Telecom. Credits for local prepaid subscriptions can be purchased at most convenience stores. Long-distance calls can be made from The El Nido Boutique and Art Cafe. 

I'm a bit uncomfortable travelling with a large amount of cash.

We understand that this is a big concern for El Nido vacationers. Guests are welcome to pay for their accommodations in full prior to their arrival, via local bank deposit or PayPal.

How can I change my foreign currency to Philippine Pesos?

Several stores in the town proper, such as the El Nido Boutique and Art Cafe, exchange foreign currencies and cash travellers checks. Most places exchange US Dollars, Euros, British Pounds, HK Dollars, Australian Dollars, Japanese Yen, and Singapore Dollars.

Do stores, restaurants, and other services accept credit cards?

While most operate on a cash only basis, there are a handful of places that accept credit cards, such as The Alternative Center, Seaslug's Restaurant, and El Nido Boutique and Art Cafe.

Is El Nido prone to tsunamis?

Aside from heavy rains, the Philippines was unaffected by the 2004 tsunami.

Is malaria a danger in El Nido?

Malarai is more common in isolated, rural areas, but mosquitoes abound anywhere in the Philippines. Hence, it would be wise to apply mosquito repellent diligently. Mosquito nets are provided for Native Cottage guests who request them..

Is there a hospital in El Nido?

No, but there is a health center and a private doctor in town. Many individuals in town are also trained in basic first aid procedures. The nearest hospital is one hour away in the town of Taytay. The town dentist is also available for basic dental needs. El Nido has at least two pharmacies offering most non-prescription drugs.

Is there police presence for tourists?

There’s a Municipal Police Station across Marina Garden El Nido and some hotels has its own private security guards in the premises. A Philippine Navy base is also within an hour's reach.

Is there a nearby church?

Yes, there are several churches of different Christian denominations in the town proper. Some churches found in El Nido are: Roman Catholic, Baptist Church, 7th Day Adventist, Jehovah's Witnesses, and El Shaddai.