Traveling to Coron has changed recently, especially for travellers coming from Manila.
Starting March 29, 2026, several airlines operating turboprop flights to Coron transferred their operations from Manila (NAIA) to Clark International Airport (CRK). This affects many travelers planning trips to Coron, El Nido, and Northern Palawan.
But don’t worry — Coron is still very accessible, and there are now multiple ways to plan your Palawan adventure smoothly.
This guide covers:
- Updated flight changes to Coron
- How to fly from Clark to Coron
- Cebu to Coron travel options
- Suggested travel routes
- Sample 2-week Palawan itinerary
- Best way to combine Coron, El Nido & island expeditions
Why Manila Flights to Coron Were Moved to Clark
Several airlines, including Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific/Cebgo, transferred turboprop routes from Manila to Clark beginning March 2026. (InsiderPH)
Affected routes include:
- Manila ↔ Coron (Busuanga)
- Manila ↔ Siargao
The change was made as part of airport slot adjustments and operational changes at NAIA.
For travelers, this simply means:
👉 Flights to Coron now commonly depart from Clark International Airport (CRK) instead of Manila.
Option 1: Flying Clark → Coron ✈️
This is now one of the easiest ways to reach Coron.
Airlines Flying Clark to Coron
Current operators may include:
- Philippine Airlines
- Cebu Pacific / Cebgo
- Sunlight Air
- AirSwift
Flight Time:
Approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 20 minutes
How to Reach Clark Airport from Manila
Options include:
- P2P buses from NAIA or Trinoma
- Private transfers
- Grab or taxi
- Shuttle services
- Direct international flights to Clark
Recommended:
- Arrive in Clark the night before during peak season
- Allow extra travel time during holidays
Option 2: Flying Cebu → Coron ✈️
Flying from Cebu City is another excellent option.
This route is ideal for:
- International travelers connecting through Cebu
- Travelers combining Cebu + Palawan
- Guests avoiding Manila traffic
Why Cebu Is a Great Alternative
- Easier airport transfers
- More international connections
- Less congestion compared to Manila
- Convenient domestic hub
Many travelers now choose:
International Flight → Cebu → Coron
instead of transiting through Manila.
Should You Start in Coron or El Nido? Both routes work well.
Start in Coron If You Want:
- Relaxed beginning
- Wreck diving & lagoons first
- Gradual transition into island life
Start in El Nido If You Want:
- More nightlife and restaurants first
- Easier access to tours and cafes
- Expedition as a relaxing ending
The Best Way to Travel Between Coron & El Nido 🌊
Instead of taking the fast ferry, many travelers now choose a multi-day island expedition.
Our recommended option:
🌴 4 Days & 3 Nights Island Holiday Expedition
This allows you to:
- Visit remote islands
- Sleep on untouched beaches
- Snorkel vibrant reefs
- Kayak through hidden lagoons
- Enjoy bonfires under the stars
It’s one of the most unforgettable ways to experience Palawan.
Suggested 2-Week Palawan Itinerary
Days 1–4: Coron
- Recommended activities:
- Kayangan Lake
- Twin Lagoon
- Barracuda Lake
- Wreck snorkeling/diving
- Maquinit Hot Springs
- Mt. Tapyas sunset
Days 5–8: 4D3N Island Expedition
Experience:
- Remote island camping
- Snorkeling
- Kayaking
- Paddle boarding
- Beach volleyball
- Stargazing
- Island communities
Possible wildlife sightings:
- Dolphins 🐬
- Sea turtles 🐢
Days 9–12: El Nido
Best things to do:
- Tour A & Tour C
- Big Lagoon
- Secret Beach
- Nacpan Beach
- Sunset at Las Cabañas
- Beach cafes & nightlife
Days 13–14: Port Barton or Puerto Princesa
Option 1: Port Barton
- Perfect for relaxing before flying home.
Option 2: Puerto Princesa
Perfect for:
- Underground River
- Easier airport access
- Restaurants & hotels
Important Travel Tips for Coron in 2026
✔ Book Flights Early
Clark flights fill up quickly during peak season.
✔ Avoid Tight Connections
If arriving internationally, avoid same-day transfers to Clark when possible.
✔ Best Travel Season
November to May is usually ideal for calmer seas and sunny weather.
Final Thoughts 🌅
Even with the recent shift from Manila to Clark, traveling to Coron is still easy — and in many ways, even more convenient.
Whether you fly through Clark or Cebu, combining:
- Coron
- El Nido
- and a 4D3N island expedition
creates one of the best island adventures in the Philippines.
If you’re looking for more than a typical island hopping tour, the 4D3N Holiday Expedition is the ultimate way to experience Palawan. 🌴