Taraw Cliff | El Nido

Taraw Cliff is the highest point in El Nido town, an imposing limestone monolith that rises approximately 230 meters above sea level. It is the town's most prominent landmark, offering the definitive panoramic view of Bacuit Bay and the surrounding archipelago.

Visual Characteristics

The cliff is a massive, dark-gray limestone karst with sharp, jagged edges. From the town below, it appears as a vertical wall of rock. At the summit, the terrain consists of extremely sharp spires where hikers can sit to overlook the town’s grid, the port, and the emerald islands dotting the blue horizon.

Comparison: Peak Hike vs. Canopy Walk

There are two distinct ways to experience Taraw Cliff, each offering a vastly different level of intensity.

Location & Access Logistics

Address: Brgy. Buena Suerte, El Nido, Palawan.

Access: The trailheads are located within the town proper, often accessed through small alleys near the local neighborhood.

Transport: Walking distance from most hotels in El Nido town.

Entry: * Canopy Walk: ~400–700 PHP (depending on the package/Dreamcatcher access).

Peak Hike: Requires a private local guide (~500–800 PHP); note that this route is often officially "closed" by local authorities due to safety concerns but remains accessible via local guides.

Historical & Cultural Origin

The name "Taraw" is derived from the Cuyonon word for the limestone rock unique to the region. Historically, the cliffs were used by indigenous people as sites for spiritual reverence. Today, the cliff is the source of the town's name; "El Nido" means "The Nest," referring to the edible nests of swiftlets harvested from the crevices of these very cliffs.

Key Highlights & Activities

Sunrise Viewing: The peak is the premier spot for sunrise, as the sun emerges from behind the mountains to illuminate the bay.

The Dreamcatcher: A large, spider-web-style rope platform on the Canopy Walk where visitors can lie down over the abyss.

Via Ferrata: The Canopy Walk uses a "protected climbing path" with steel cables and a suspension bridge.

Wildlife: Home to the Palawan swiftlet and various lizards that inhabit the limestone cracks.

Safety & Requirements

Footwear: Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are mandatory. The rocks are razor-sharp and will easily cut skin or thin soles.

Gloves: Highly recommended for the Peak Hike to protect hands during rock scrambling.

Weather: Neither activity should be attempted during or immediately after rain, as the limestone becomes dangerously slippery.

Best Time to Visit

Peak Hike: 05:00 AM to reach the summit before the tropical heat becomes unbearable and to witness the sunrise.

Canopy Walk: Opens at 08:00 AM; visit early to avoid the midday sun.