
easy
5–6 hours
Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly sitting with short stretch stops
Skip the crowded buses and ride south in private comfort. This 5–6 hour door-to-door van transfer from El Nido to Puerto Princesa moves you through Palawan’s coastal karst, village life, and optional stop at the famed Puerto Princesa Underground River.
The morning air in El Nido smells like diesel and sea salt as your driver slides the doors open and gestures toward a polished Toyota Grandia. Bags clatter into the undercarriage with practiced ease; the van settles on the shoulder, engine humming like a patient animal ready for a long walk. You pull away from the limestone spires that frame El Nido’s bay and the road unfurls southward — a measured ribbon of asphalt that threads through karst ridges, sleepy coastal villages, and broad rice flats.

Allow at least 3 hours between your van arrival in Puerto Princesa and any scheduled flights — drivers are not responsible for missed departures.
Small roadside stalls and restroom stops often accept cash only; keep ₱500–₱1,000 on hand for snacks and fees.
Although wheelchair accessible options exist, confirm vehicle type and pickup logistics at least 24 hours before departure.
The coastal road has curves and hills; take motion-sickness medication before boarding if you’re sensitive.
The route follows the spine of northern Palawan, where uplifted coral and limestone reveal a geological history of sea level change and tectonic activity.
Palawan habitats are fragile; stick to established rest areas, avoid single-use plastics at roadside stands, and support local vendors to help sustain communities.
Keeps essentials and documents within reach during the trip.
Staying hydrated is crucial on long drives in tropical heat.
summer specific
Useful for winding coastal roads and rough patches.
The van’s AC can be chilly compared with the outside humidity.