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.
What are the 3 ways to travel from Puerto Princesa to El Nido?
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 580 PHP ($9.80).
Where to stay in El Nido?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in El Nido at the bottom of this page.
Puerto Princesa to El Nido by Bus
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 580 PHP ($9.80) for the non-airconditioned buses, while air-conditioned buses cost around 820 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 475 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.
Bus schedule from Puerto Princesa to El Nido
Cherry Bus from Puerto Princesa to El Nido
Cherry Bus provides standard bus service and offers 3 types of buses for passengers.
Economy bus tickets from Puerto Princesa to El Nido are the cheapest option at 580 PHP ($9.80), mainly because these buses are non-airconditioned. For a bit more comfort, you can book a Standard bus for 820 PHP ($13.90), which comes with air-conditioning.
If you want to splurge a little or prefer to travel at night, you can try the Cherry VIP bus, which is the most expensive at 890 PHP ($15). This has recliner seats that are perfect for a night’s rest. It also offers a toilet on board and travels between Puerto Princesa and El Nido without any stops.
Puerto Princesa to El Nido by Minivan
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 690 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.
Minivan schedule from Puerto Princesa to El Nido
The van is the most preferred mode of transport in Palawan Island. Seats can fill up quickly, so try to book at least a day in advance through BookAway! Most operators offer free cancellation, which can be useful in case your travel plans change at the last minute.
Puerto Princesa to El Nido by Private Transfer
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 7,000 PHP ($120) for a 10-seater. Split it with your group, and it’s about 700 PHP ($11.80) each.
Private Transfer options from Puerto Princesa to El Nido
Best places to stay in El Nido
El Nido is all about stunning limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters and natural beauty. And that’s what our favourite stays in El Nido reflect!
There are a lot of awesome accommodations for all budgets to pick between in El Nido. Our favourite stays are places with the best views, incredible nature, stunning decor and amazing staff.
Before you start reading about our favourite stays, it’s good to know a bit about the best areas to stay in El Nido, so that you’re picking the best accommodation in the area that’s right for you.
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- El Nido Town is where you’ll find most of our favourite stays. It’s the main tourist area in El Nido, and where you’ll find the ferry point. Nice and convenient!
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- Corong-Corong is a quieter area located just south of El Nido Town and is known for its beautiful sunsets and picturesque beach.
Cadlao Resort and Restaurant - Treating Yourself
Area: Next to El Nido town — 10-minute walk to town centre
Your only negative comment about this place is that you wish you’d stayed longer. This place really is the tropical island resort that you’ve been dreaming of.
The infinity pool overlooks the sea, there are palm trees everywhere and the service is incredible. Here you’ll get to enjoy your own spacious cottage, with some of them opening up right onto the beach.
- Three swimming pools
- Beach-side bungalows
- Incredible views
- Tasty breakfast included
Double rooms start from $150 per night
Duli Beach Resort - Treating Yourself
Area: Duli Beach — around 1-hour to El Nido town
There’s no better way to start your day than drawing back the curtains and seeing the ocean right there. That’s exactly what you can get at Duli Beach Resort. Their spacious bungalows with private terraces are set right on the beach.
The remote location means that a lot of the time you’ll have the beach to yourself. You also don’t have to worry about finding food or a drink as the hotel’s on-site restaurant and bar will undoubtedly satisfy you. If you want to head to El Nido town, it’s just under an hour’s drive away.
- Right on the beach
- Secluded location
- Amazing staff
- Delicious breakfast included
Double rooms start from $50 per night
Spin Designer Hostel - Mid Range
Area: El Nido town — only a 5-minute walk around the town and beach
You might have guessed by the name, Spin Designer Hostel has been designed to perfection. It’s so nicely and creatively designed that you probably wouldn’t expect it to be a hostel.
The great thing about staying in a hostel, whether you’re in a private room or the dorms, is that there’s often great facilities. Spin Designer Hostel has a shared kitchen with BBQ facilities, a games room and a terrace surrounded by the forest. How about enjoying your complimentary breakfast here?
- Stylish and modern hostel
- Great amenities
- Delicious breakfast included
- Private and dorm rooms
Double rooms cost $30-$50 per night
Hutch Lodging House - Mid Range
Area: Next to El Nido town — approx. 20-minute walk to El Nido beach and town centre
Hutch Lodging House brings the outside inside. With most of the hotel being open-air and plants scattered throughout, there’s a very relaxing ambience here. You also have the option to relax on your own private balcony as every room has one.
It’s beautifully designed! The hotel is only a 10-minute walk from town — far enough that you get peace and quiet, but not too far.
- Great location
- Beautiful design
- Air conditioning
- Every room has a private balcony
Double rooms cost $30-$50 per night
Bale Cabugao Cottages - Budget Friendly
Area: Near El Nido town – approx. 10-minute walk to El Nido beach and town centre
Only steps from the beach, all you have to do is stand on the balcony at Bale Cabugao Cottages to hear the sound of the waves. Imagine eating your breakfast with this view! Great news: it’s included in the price.
The hosts go out of their way to help you organise anything in El Nido. Their energy is also guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.
- Incredible views
- Great location
- Helpful and happy hosts
- Comfortable rooms
Double rooms $15-$30 per night
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Puerto Princesa to El Nido. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
Frequently Asked Questions about Puerto Princesa to El Nido
Is it worth visiting El Nido?
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.
How to get from Puerto Princesa to El Nido by jeepney?
If you like travelling via local transport, there are also jeepneys that head from San Jose Bus Terminal in Puerto Princesa to El Nido. It costs 250 PHP ($4.20) and the journey takes approximately 6 hours. Jeepneys also drop passengers off at Corong-Corong Bus Terminal.
However, bear in mind that sitting in a van for 5 hours from Puerto Princesa to El Nido is already a struggle. Sitting in a jeepney wouldn’t be a good experience at all for such long journeys, especially during summer!
Does El Nido have an airport?
El Nido does have an airport that is located 20 km from its town, about 15 minutes by van or tricycle. El Nido Airport is owned by AirSWIfT which is the only airline operating at this airport and it does not offer connecting flights from Puerto Princesa.
Another option for travellers is to fly from Manila to El Nido, which takes just a little over one hour.
Abby is a writer who finds joy in mountains, beaches, and road trips. She considers her solo backpacking trip to the rice terraces of Bontoc one of the most fulfilling moments in her life. She’s loyal to the islands of her home country, the Philippines, but Thailand’s beaches also have a special place in her heart.
Faye is a writer and full-time mom. She loves planning trips to the beach, tasting new cuisines and discovering gems in the Philippines. But if she had to choose, London is her favourite place in the world and she can't wait to travel there again with her hubby and baby!
Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she’s not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines… Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she’ll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
