
Keira Backpackers (also known as Keira Tourist Inn) is a budget-friendly accommodation located in El Nido, Palawan. Known for its quiet garden setting and proximity to the famous Caalan and El Nido Main beaches, it serves as an ideal base for travelers looking for an authentic island experience without the steep resort prices.
Guest Reviews and Star Rating
- Star Rating: 2-Star Hotel / Guesthouse
- Average Rating: 7.6 / 10 (based on 300+ reviews)
- Guest Feedback:
- Pros: Travelers frequently praise the friendly and helpful staff, the tranquil garden atmosphere, and the convenient location (walking distance to town but away from the noise).
- Cons: Some guests noted that WiFi can be spotty and the facilities are basic, reflecting its status as a budget backpacker inn.
Recommended Places to Visit
El Nido is world-renowned for its limestone karst landscapes and turquoise lagoons. Most attractions are categorized by standard boat tours:
- Big Lagoon & Secret Lagoon (Tour A): The “must-do” icons of El Nido. Kayak through emerald waters surrounded by towering cliffs.
- Snake Island (Tour B): A unique, natural sandbar that snakes through the sea, connecting two islands during low tide.
- Hidden Beach & Matinloc Shrine (Tour C): Often cited as the best for snorkeling and dramatic scenery.
- Nacpan Beach: A 45-minute land trip from town, this 4-kilometer stretch of golden sand is perfect for a relaxing day trip.
- Caalan Beach: Located just steps from Keira Backpackers, this is the best spot for a quiet sunset walk away from the crowds.
What to Eat
Palawan’s culinary scene is a mix of fresh seafood and unique local delicacies:
- Fresh Seafood: Try grilled Lapu-Lapu (grouper), stuffed squid, or garlic butter prawns, usually caught the same morning.
- Kinilaw: A Filipino-style ceviche made with fresh raw fish cured in vinegar, calamansi, ginger, and chili.
- Tamilok: For the brave—a woodworm delicacy harvested from mangroves, typically served raw with vinegar.
- Crocodile Sisig: A lean, savory twist on the traditional Filipino pork dish, often served on a sizzling plate.
- Chicken Inasal: Grilled marinated chicken that is a staple comfort food in the region.
3-Day Sample Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Sunset Relaxation
- Morning: Check-in at Keira Backpackers and settle into your garden room.
- Afternoon: Walk to Caalan Beach for a dip or explore the local shops in El Nido town center.
- Evening: Enjoy a seafood dinner at a beachfront grill and watch the sunset.
Day 2: Island Hopping (Tour A)
- Morning: Head to the pier for Tour A. Explore the Big Lagoon and Secret Lagoon.
- Lunch: Picnic lunch provided on a white sand beach (usually Shimizu Island).
- Afternoon: Snorkel at Seven Commando Beach before heading back to town.
- Evening: Try Crocodile Sisig at a local eatery.
Day 3: Inland Adventure
- Morning: Rent a scooter or take a tricycle to Nacpan Beach.
- Lunch: Eat fresh coconuts and grilled fish at a beach shack.
- Afternoon: Visit the Las Cabanas Beach for zip-lining or a final swim.
- Evening: Farewell dinner in town before your departure.
