In this in-depth route guide, you'll find the best ways to travel the 260 kilometre distance from Puerto Princesa to El Nido. Whether you prefer the scenic overnight train, a convenient bus+ferry combo, or the fastest flight option — we've got all the details you need.
There are 3 ways to get from Puerto Princesa to El Nido. You can choose between the bus, minivan, private transfer. The most affordable option is by bus, starting from $10. The fastest route is by minivan (5h ).
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| Transport | Duration | Price | Best For | Popularity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MinivanFastest | 5h | ($12) | -- | |
| BusBudget | 5h 30m | ($10) | -- | |
| Private Transfer | 6h | ($118) | -- |
Route Overview
Puerto PrincesaEl Nido260 km
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Bus
5h 30m - 7h 30mFrom ~$10
Departure and arrival stations
Buses depart from Irawan Bus Terminal near the Crocodile Farm. This new terminal is 10 km west of the city centre and is about 30 minutes away from Puerto Princesa Airport. A tricycle ride to Irawan costs between [price 5 USD] and [price 8 USD]. The buses usually make two stops along the way — in the towns of Roxas and Taytay — where you can buy local food, snacks, and some souvenirs. You will arrive at El Nido Transport Terminal near Corong Corong Beach. From here, you can take a 10-minute tricycle ride to the town centre for [price 100 PHP]. We don’t recommend walking because there are no sidewalks and it’s not safe to walk along the road, particularly at night.KEY LOCATIONS
Departure & Arrival Stations
Frequently Asked Questions
The scattered karst mountains offer one of the most stunning landscapes of the Philippines and are definitely worth adding to your island-hopping itinerary. The journey from Puerto Princesa to El Nido might seem a bit long, but once you arrive, you know it was worth it.
Keep in mind that thousands of tourists visit El Nido. If you are looking for less touristic places, we suggest visiting Port Barton in the town of San Vicente. The charming beach town also offers several island-hopping tours, although it doesn't offer the same landscapes filled with karst mountains.
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Why Visit El Nido?
El Nido is Palawan Island's northernmost tip, popular around the world as the gateway to paradise — the Bacuit Archipelago. This group of picture-perfect limestone islands boasts white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, enchanting lagoons, and beautiful underwater.
El Nido's town centre leaves much to be desired with its mediocre beach, narrow streets, and mostly backpacker and mid-range hostels. But the island-hopping adventures from here are some of the best you will see in the world. Outside town, you should also include in your El Nido itinerary a visit to Nacpan-Calitang Beach and a hike to Taraw Peak.
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Carbon Footprint
This 260 km journey produces approximately 23 g CO2 by bus. Taking public transport is one of the lowest-emission ways to travel this route.
Traveller Reviews
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Used the Songserm ferry from Koh Samui. Cheaper than Lomprayah but takes a bit longer. Still a perfectly fine crossing. The views approaching Koh Tao are stunning either way.
OOliver S.November 2025Ferry
Train via Surat Thani was our pick. More scenic than Chumphon route and the Lomprayah catamaran from Tapee Pier is very comfortable. Book the special express train for the quickest ride.
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Jenny L.Jan 2026
TrainThe overnight bus with Montanatip was okay but not great. The bus was older and the seats didn't recline much. Ferry portion was fine though. If you're on a tight budget it works.
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Carlos V.Oct 2025
BusTook the sleeper train to Chumphon — magical! Woke up to palm trees and transferred to the Lomprayah catamaran. Whole journey felt like an adventure.
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Maya R.Dec 2025
TrainLomprayah bus+ferry combo from Khao San Road was seamless. Departed at 6am, arrived Koh Tao by 3pm. Well organized.
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David H.Feb 2026
BusFlew to Koh Samui and took Lomprayah catamaran. More expensive but saved a full day. Worth it if your holiday is short.
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Sophie K.Jan 2026
Flight
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