HOW TO GO TO EL NIDO PALAWAN FROM PUERTO PRINCESA

HOW TO GO TO EL NIDO PALAWAN FROM PUERTO PRINCESA

If this is your first time going to Palawan and you want to know how to get to El Nido from Puerto Princesa City, this is the perfect guide to help you on your travel journey.

If you prefer more legroom and extra space, you might want to travel by bus. Buses such as RoRo Bus and San Isidro operate from the terminal in Barangay Irawan.

1. BY SHARED VAN – MOST COMMON

Below are the three practical and most common ways to travel from PPS to El Nido.

Your travel time depends on the driver and the number of stopovers — the total distance is approximately 270 kilometers, so buckle up and get ready to enjoy the long ride!

• Travel time: around 5–6 hours

• Fare: ₱600–₱700 per person

Pros: Direct to El Nido town proper, faster travel

Cons: You might feel cramped if the van is full

2. BY BUS – BUDGET OPTION

In Palawan, the most popular way to travel to El Nido is by a shared van. Vans usually depart from Puerto Princesa Airport or the city terminal in Barangay Irawan almost every hour, from 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

3. BY PRIVATE CAR OR SELF-DRIVE – MOST FLEXIBLE

Your third option is all about flexibility and freedom. Traveling by private car means you’ll be renting a vehicle, and in Puerto Princesa City, there are many car rental services to choose from.

• Travel time: around 7–8 hours

• Fare: ₱500–₱600 per person

The travel time from Puerto Princesa to El Nido is longer compared to vans because buses drive slower, but the ride feels more relaxed and spacious.

Pros: Comfortable travel experience due to spacious seats.

Cons: Fewer daily trips, longer travel time, and most buses are not air-conditioned

You can rent a car self-drive, rent a car with a professional driver, or even book a pickup and drop-off service and choose a car depending on what you need.

• Travel time: Flexible

• Rate: ₱1300–₱3000 per day

Pros: You have full control over your schedule and stops, have a better driving experience, and most importantly - complete privacy.

Cons: Higher cost, but definitely worth it if comfort is your priority

• Book in advance, especially during peak season. Vans, buses, and car rentals can get fully booked quickly, especially on holidays and long weekends.

• Bring snacks and water. It’s a long ride and stopovers are limited, so having your own food and drinks will make the trip more comfortable.

• Use the restroom before leaving. Most stopovers are basic, so it’s best to prepare ahead of time.

• We suggest you travel early in the morning. You’ll arrive in El Nido with enough time to explore.

• If you’re renting a self-drive car, fill up your tank in Puerto Princesa City. You’ll save more by doing so, as fuel prices are usually higher outside the city.