Updated info about Tours and Activities in El Nido
Discover the latest rules and regulations for traveling to El Nido, one of the most stunning destinations in the Philippines. Stay informed and make the most out of your trip to this tropical paradise.
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Effective November 20, 2018, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has implemented a ban on Combination tours and Party Boats in El Nido to minimize the negative impact of tourism on the environment. El Nido is home to unique bird species and large marine wildlife such as sea turtles, dugongs, dolphins, and sharks, and authorities aim to avoid the same problems faced by Boracay.
These regulations include:
A ban on combination tours and party boats
A limit on the number of tourists and activities at the three most-visited sites in El Nido: Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, and Secret Beach,
A ban on fishing, cliff jumping, grilling of food, and playing of loud music in Bacuit Bay
Pre-registration for premium stops like Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon
El Nido’s Environmental Fee is a mandatory fee collected from all tourists visiting Bacuit Bay. The environmental fee is PHP 200 per person, and it is valid for 10 days.
For the lagoons, there is a separate entrance fee:
Big Lagoon: PHP 200 per person
Small Lagoon: PHP 200 per person
No, you can only visit one “premium stop” per day. This means that you can either visit Small Lagoon OR Big Lagoon, but not both on the same day. This regulation has been implemented to manage the number of tourists visiting these attractions and to minimize the negative impact of tourism on the environment. It’s important to plan your tours accordingly and book in advance to secure your slot for the premium stop of your choice.
Previously, you could opt for a “combination tour” that allowed you to visit various stops from two tours. Many tourists would choose to do a “Combination Tour A/C” and visit Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, and Secret Beach all in one day.
However, due to the new premium stops policy, which only permits one premium stop per day, visiting all three locations in a single day will no longer be possible.
Overnight camping is currently not allowed in any of the islands in El Nido. The local government has prohibited camping to help preserve the natural beauty and prevent environmental degradation of the area. Visitors are only allowed to stay on the islands during the day and must leave before sunset.