Are you dreaming of a tropical getaway in the Philippines but can’t decide between the stunning landscapes of El Nido and the breathtaking beauty of Coron? One of the biggest factors in your decision might be the cost. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the expenses associated with both destinations to help you determine which one is easier on your wallet. So, let’s get started!
Understanding El Nido and Coron
Before we jump into the costs, let’s take a moment to understand what makes El Nido and Coron unique. Both are located in the province of Palawan, known for its crystal-clear waters, limestone cliffs, and vibrant marine life. However, they offer different experiences that can influence your budget.
What is El Nido Known For?
El Nido is famous for its stunning island-hopping tours, beautiful lagoons, and vibrant nightlife. It’s a hotspot for travelers looking to explore hidden beaches and snorkel in rich coral reefs. The town itself has a lively atmosphere, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops.
What is Coron Known For?
On the other hand, Coron is renowned for its incredible diving spots, including shipwrecks from World War II, and stunning freshwater lakes like Kayangan Lake. It’s a bit quieter than El Nido, making it perfect for those looking to relax and enjoy nature.
Accommodation Costs
Accommodation is usually one of the largest expenses when traveling. Let’s break down the costs you can expect in both El Nido and Coron.
El Nido Accommodation Prices
- Hostels: PHP 500-800 (USD 10-15) per night
- Budget Hotels: PHP 1,500-2,500 (USD 30-50) per night
- Mid-Range Hotels: PHP 3,000-5,000 (USD 60-100) per night
- Luxury Resorts: PHP 10,000-20,000 (USD 200-400) per night
Coron Accommodation Prices
- Hostels: PHP 300-600 (USD 6-12) per night
- Budget Hotels: PHP 1,000-2,000 (USD 20-40) per night
- Mid-Range Hotels: PHP 2,500-4,000 (USD 50-80) per night
- Luxury Resorts: PHP 8,000-15,000 (USD 160-300) per night
Food and Drink Costs
Next up, let’s talk about food and drinks. After all, you need to fuel up for all those adventures!
Food Costs in El Nido
- Street Food: PHP 100-200 (USD 2-4) per meal
- Mid-Range Restaurants: PHP 500-1,000 (USD 10-20) per meal
- Fine Dining: PHP 1,500-3,000 (USD 30-60) per meal
- Beer: PHP 100-200 (USD 2-4) per bottle
Food Costs in Coron
- Street Food: PHP 50-150 (USD 1-3) per meal
- Mid-Range Restaurants: PHP 300-600 (USD 6-12) per meal
- Fine Dining: PHP 1,000-2,000 (USD 20-40) per meal
- Beer: PHP 50-100 (USD 1-2) per bottle
Activities and Tours
Both destinations offer a plethora of activities, but the costs can vary significantly.
Activities in El Nido
- Island Hopping Tour: PHP 1,200-2,000 (USD 24-40) per person
- Snorkeling/Diving Tour: PHP 2,000-3,500 (USD 40-70) per person
- Kayaking/Paddleboarding: PHP 500-1,000 (USD 10-20) per person
Activities in Coron
- Island Hopping Tour: PHP 800-1,500 (USD 16-30) per person
- Snorkeling/Diving Tour: PHP 1,500-2,500 (USD 30-50) per person
- Kayaking/Paddleboarding: PHP 300-600 (USD 6-12) per person
Transportation Costs
Getting around can also impact your budget. Here’s what you can expect in terms of transportation costs.
Transportation in El Nido
- Tricycle Ride: PHP 50-100 (USD 1-2) per person
- Van Rental: PHP 2,000-3,000 (USD 40-60) per day
- Boat Rental: PHP 5,000-10,000 (USD 100-200) per day
Transportation in Coron
- Tricycle Ride: PHP 20-50 (USD 0.40-1) per person
- Van Rental: PHP 1,500-2,500 (USD 30-50) per day
- Boat Rental: PHP 3,000-6,000 (USD 60-120) per day
Overall Cost Comparison
Now that we’ve broken down the costs, let’s summarize the overall expenses for both destinations.
El Nido Summary
El Nido tends to be more expensive overall, especially when it comes to accommodation and dining. However, the vibrant nightlife and variety of activities may justify the higher costs for some travelers.
Coron Summary
Coron is generally cheaper, especially in terms of food and activities. If you’re looking for a more laid-back experience with stunning natural beauty, Coron might be the better choice for your budget.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, Coron is the way to go. It offers lower accommodation and food costs, along with a variety of activities that won’t break the bank. However, if you’re drawn to the lively atmosphere and unique experiences in El Nido, it might be worth the extra expense. Ultimately, both destinations have their charm, and you can’t go wrong with either choice!
For more information on El Nido and Coron, check out the Philippine Department of Tourism, Lonely Planet, and TripAdvisor for reviews and recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is El Nido or Coron more expensive?
Coron is generally cheaper than El Nido in terms of accommodation, food, and activities. - What is the best time to visit El Nido and Coron?
The best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from December to May. - How do I get to El Nido and Coron?
You can fly to either destination from Manila or take a ferry or bus from nearby towns. - What are the must-try activities in El Nido and Coron?
Must-try activities include island hopping, snorkeling, diving, and kayaking. - Can I visit El Nido and Coron on a budget?
Yes, both destinations can be visited on a budget by choosing affordable accommodations and local eateries.
