What it actually costs
When to go
Southwest monsoon — boat trips cancelled, waves too high for island-hopping.
El Nido Tour A is the most popular (Big Lagoon). Tour C is better — fewer boats, more snorkelling, Secret Beach is incredible.
What locals know
Island-hopping tours are ₱1,200-1,800 per person including lunch. Private boats are ₱5,000-8,000 for your group — worth it with 4+ people.
Port Barton is the secret — between El Nido and Puerto Princesa, barely touristy, same stunning islands.
Underground River (Puerto Princesa) needs advance permits booked online. Cannot show up.
El Nido sunset from Las Cabanas beach zipline platform (₱500 entry without zipline) is the best viewpoint.
Honest warnings
ATMs in El Nido run out of cash regularly. Bring enough peso from Manila/Puerto Princesa.
Electricity on remote islands is generator-only (6pm-6am or less).
Boat trips in rough weather are genuinely dangerous. If seas look bad, don't pressure your boatman.
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