How to Get from El Nido to Puerto Princesa

If you want to travel like a local, taking the bus from El Nido to Puerto Princesa is a great choice. The roads can be narrow and winding, but during the day, you'll get amazing sea views through the big bus windows. If you're taking a VIP bus at night, the bus comes with reclining seats and an onboard toilet. You can try to catch some sleep! Cherry Bus is currently the only bus company from El Nido to Puerto Princesa. You can choose to ride an economy, standard, or VIP bus with rates from $10. It's worth noting that the arrival station is now 10 km away from Puerto Princesa city centre, so expect additional costs.

Departure and arrival stations

All buses depart from El Nido Transport Terminal. We suggest that you book your bus ride online in advance. You can also buy your bus ticket directly at the bus station, but you'll want to arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure to get tickets for your desired bus. Buses arrive at Irawan Bus Terminal near the crocodile farm. It’s a 30-minute ride to the city centre, and tricycle drivers would charge between [price 5 USD] and [price 8 USD]. If you’re travelling from El Nido to Puerto Princesa to fly out of Palawan, a tricycle ride to the airport would cost a few more dollars.

Most travellers opt to take the van from El Nido to Puerto Princesa even though it's smaller than the bus. But that’s actually a good thing because the ride feels more stable on the winding roads, so you won’t be tossed around with every turn. Minivans also come with air-conditioning and are cheaper than an air-conditioned bus, making them ideal if you want to stay cool during the 5.5-hour journey. The minivan ride takes about 5h - 5h 30m with costs starting from $12.

Departure and arrival stations

Minivans depart from El Nido Transport Terminal. In the El Nido downtown area, you can take a tricycle from your hotel to the transport terminal for [price 100 PHP]. Most minivans drop you off at your hotel or head straight to Puerto Princesa Airport.

PRO TIP: The minivan is the most preferred mode of transport in Palawan. Seats can fill up quickly, so always try to book your van at least 1 day in advance!