Transport & Getting Around
Palawan is large — El Nido to Puerto Princesa is 240 km. Here's how to connect the major destinations by van, ferry, and small aircraft.
Verified 2026 · Island Seeker Editorial
quick answer
Palawan's main destinations — Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron — are far apart and connected by vans (Puerto Princesa–El Nido: 5–6 hours, PHP 700–900), ferries (El Nido–Coron: 4–5 hours fast ferry), and small flights (Puerto Princesa–El Nido: 45 min). Within El Nido and Coron, tricycles handle local transport. Island hopping is by bangka boat.
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How long is the drive from Puerto Princesa to El Nido?
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Is there a ferry from El Nido to Coron?
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Local Transport Costs
PP to El Nido
5–6 hrs van, ~PHP 800
El Nido to Coron
4–5 hrs fast ferry
PP to El Nido (flight)
~45 min, multiple airlines
In-town transport
Tricycle — PHP 15–50
The overland journey from Puerto Princesa (PPS airport) to El Nido takes 5–6 hours by shared van or bus — about 240 km on a mostly paved road through Palawan's mountainous interior. Shared vans (the standard option) cost PHP 700–900 per person and depart throughout the day from San Jose Terminal in Puerto Princesa. The road passes through spectacular scenery and includes a lunch stop.
Direct flights from Manila to El Nido Airport (ENI) are operated by Air Juan and similar carriers — 45 minutes and a major time saver if you're arriving from Manila. Flights can also connect Puerto Princesa to El Nido directly. This option costs significantly more (PHP 2,500–5,000+ one way) but is worth considering if your time is limited.
Private van hire from Puerto Princesa to El Nido costs around PHP 5,000–8,000 for the vehicle — practical for groups of 4+ and allows stops at the Underground River or Sabang along the way.
There are no commercial flights between El Nido and Coron. The primary connection is by fast ferry — a 4–5 hour journey through open water past remote islands. Multiple operators run this route including Montenegro Lines and various speed-boat services. Fares range from PHP 1,800 to PHP 2,500 depending on operator and speed of vessel.
The ferry passes through stunning scenery including the St. Paul Subterranean River park area. However, the crossing is open ocean and can be rough during Habagat season — some crossings are cancelled due to rough seas. Book with a reputable operator and check weather forecasts.
A longer alternative is the RORO (roll-on, roll-off) ferry, which takes 8–12 hours but runs overnight and is cheaper. This option is used more by locals and budget travellers.
Within El Nido town, tricycles are the main transport — PHP 15–30 per person for shared rides, PHP 50–100 for private hire to beach clubs or Corong-Corong. The town is small enough to walk most of it.
In Coron, tricycles cost PHP 15–30 per person. The town center is compact and walkable. E-bikes are increasingly available for rent at PHP 300–500/day and are handy for visiting Kayangan Lake and Twin Lagoon independently.
Motorcycles are available for rent in both towns for PHP 400–600/day, giving flexibility to explore inland areas. A driving licence is technically required — bring an international driving permit.
questions & answers
How long does it take to get from Puerto Princesa to El Nido?
By shared van: 5–6 hours, PHP 700–900 per person. By small plane: about 45 minutes direct from Manila or PPS (more expensive). Most travellers take the van and enjoy the scenic drive.
Is there a ferry between El Nido and Coron?
Yes — fast ferries take 4–5 hours (PHP 1,800–2,500). There are no commercial flights between them. Book in advance during peak season as the route is popular.
How do I get from Manila to El Nido?
Fly Manila (MNL) to Puerto Princesa (PPS), then take a van to El Nido (5–6 hrs). Or fly Manila direct to El Nido (ENI) on Air Juan — around 45 minutes but limited schedule and more expensive.
Are there taxis in El Nido or Coron?
No metered taxis. Tricycles handle all local transport. Private van hire is available for longer journeys. Grab is not available in El Nido or Coron.
Can the van from Puerto Princesa stop at the Underground River?
Yes — private van hires can include a stop at Sabang (Underground River) en route to El Nido. Allow a full day for this option. Shared vans do not make this detour.
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