How to get from Puerto Princesa 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 260 kilometre (162 miles) distance from Puerto Princesa to El Nido. You can choose between the bus, minivan and private transfer. The journey takes 5 hours to 7 hours 30 minutes and the quickest way is by minivan. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at 575 PHP ($9.80).

If you want to travel like a local, taking the bus is a great choice for this route. The bus journey from Puerto Princesa to El Nido takes around 5 hours 30 minutes to 7 hours 30 minutes, depending on how many stops your bus makes.

The roads can be narrow and winding, but the upside is that you get a better view of the sea with the huge bus windows, especially if you’re travelling during the day. If you’re taking a VIP bus at night, you can enjoy spacious seats and might even get some sleep.

Cherry Bus is the main operator for this route. Another company that also runs here is the Roro Bus, but we don’t recommend it as it doesn’t get a lot of good reviews.

Ticket prices with Cherry Bus start from 575 PHP ($9.80) for the non-airconditioned buses, while air-conditioned buses cost around 815 PHP ($13.90).

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 295 PHP ($5) and 470 PHP ($8).

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 100 PHP ($1.70). We don’t recommend walking because there are no sidewalks and it’s not safe to walk along the road, particularly at night.

Minivans make fewer stops compared to the bus, so most likely you will complete the journey faster — around 5 hours to 5 hours 30 minutes. Prices start from 685 PHP ($11.70).

Note that some vans have limited space, which might be a tight fit for taller passengers.

Minivans generally stop at a local canteen halfway to El Nido, where you’ll get to use the washroom and buy classic Filipino food, beverages, and snacks.

Some of the van companies operating on this route are Lexxus Shuttle Palawan, Palajuanders Travel and Tours, Island View Travel, Fortwally and Eulen Joy Express. It’s worth noting that van drivers here are generally skilled and cautious, but there’s still a chance of riding with one that drives too fast.

Departure and arrival stations

Minivans depart from Puerto Princesa Airport. If you’re coming from the town centre, Eulen Joy Express and Fortwally also offer free hotel pickup.

Vans from Puerto Princesa to El Nido drop passengers off at El Nido Transport Terminal in Corong Corong. Keep in mind that both the bus and van are NOT allowed to enter El Nido town due to its small roads. From the terminal, you can take a tricycle to the town centre for 100 PHP ($1.70).

PRO TIP: Planning to go to El Nido straight from your flight? We recommend taking a direct van from the airport. With the bus, you’ll first have to take a taxi to the bus terminal. And upon arrival, you’ll have to wait for the next bus departure, which could be in a few minutes or in a few hours.

A private transfer from Puerto Princesa to El Nido is the easiest and most convenient option. The journey takes 5 to 6 hours, and you’ll be dropped off right at your accommodation — no need to worry about extra transfers.

Prices for private transfer start at 6,900 PHP ($120) for a 10-seater. Split it with your group, and it’s about 695 PHP ($11.80) each.

Private Transfer options from Puerto Princesa to El Nido