How to get from Port Barton to El Nido

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.

There are 3 ways to travel the 180 kilometre (112 miles) distance from Port Barton to El Nido. You can choose between the bus, van and private transport. The journey takes 3 hours 30 minutes to 5 hours and the quickest way is by van. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at 410 PHP ($7) - 550 PHP ($9.40).

When travelling from Port Barton to El Nido, the best option is to take a shared van. The journey takes around 3 hours 30 minutes to 4 hours. You can get a ticket for 675 PHP ($11.50) per person.

There are four minivan companies operating on this route, with each offering 1 to 2 trips per day.

Departure and arrival stations

Shared vans depart from Port Barton Bus Terminal, along San Jose Road in the town centre. Hotel pickup isn’t allowed due to local regulations, so you can only catch a van from the terminal. A tricycle ride to the terminal usually costs 50 PHP ($0.90) per person, though drivers often require at least two passengers.

In El Nido, the drop-off point is at El Nido Bus Terminal. Since vans aren’t allowed into the town proper, you’ll need to take a short tricycle ride to your accommodation for about 100 PHP ($1.70).

The bus is a cheap option to travel from Port Barton to El Nido, but it also takes longer than the minivan. You’ll first need to get to Roxas by tricycle, then catch a bus to El Nido.

Overall, the travel time will take at least 4 hours 30 minutes minutes, excluding transfer time.

Step 1: Port Barton to Roxas by Tricycle

To start the trip, you’ll need to get from Port Barton to Roxas.

There used to be a jeepney on this route, but the last time we checked (July 2025), this was no longer available. Now, the most common option is a tricycle. The journey from Port Barton to Roxas takes about 1 hour, and fares start from around 200 PHP ($3.40).

If you’re travelling light, you can also hop on a habal-habal (motorbike taxi), which is usually faster and a bit cheaper. Ask your hostel in Port Barton for the latest prices and options. They’ll point you in the right direction.

Step 2: Roxas to El Nido by Bus

From Roxas, you can take a bus to El Nido. However, because these buses actually come from Puerto Princesa, don’t be surprised if you have to wait a while.

A ticket for an air-conditioned bus costs 210 PHP ($3.60). You can expect cheaper prices with a non-air-conditioned bus. The bus ride from Roxas to El Nido takes around 3.5 hours.

If you prefer not to wait till the next bus arrives, you can also take a van at Roxas Bus Terminal. The price for the shared van from Roxas to El Nido starts at 350 PHP ($6). Note that drivers sometimes charge more.

Both the bus and van will drop you off at El Nido Bus Terminal, about 2 km south of the main tourist centre in El Nido.

A private transfer is a convenient option when travelling in a group from Port Barton to El Nido.

Rates start from 6,200 PHP ($105) for a 12-seater private transfer. Divide the cost, and that’s about 515 PHP ($8.80) per person. Travel time is around 4 to 5 hours.

Private Transport options from Port Barton to El Nido