EL Nido Palawan: Transport Schedule and Road Experience To Paradise

“The way to paradise is ascending; we must be content to travel uphill, though it is hard and tiresome, and contrary to the natural bias of our flesh.”

This holds true to my road experience going to El Nido from Puerto Princesa by Van for 5 to 6 hours. My friend Kim and I seated at the backmost part of the Van which made us dizzy because of so many blind curves, slopes, and zigzag roads.

My two other friends who were seated at the 3^rd row from the driver didn’t escape the giddy feeling. More than half part of the road going to El Nido is cemented; the rest of the road nearing El Nido is bumpy.

But who am I to complain? The regular Van fare of 700 Php going to El Nido was haggled down to 500 PhP (Nakatipid!).

Van vs. Bus

I am not a “biyahilo” type of person, but the road to El Nido by Van really put my physical being to the test as it got me dizzy and nauseous, unless you position yourself at the passenger seat or right behind the driver’s seat, there might be a slight difference.

After enjoying El Nido, we opted to take the Bus back to Puerto Princesa and the ride was smooth and comfortable. You might also consider bringing a little pillow and jacket for comfort.

Transportation Schedule (Puerto Princesa - El Nido)

Buses
RoRo buses depart at San Jose Terminal in Puerto Princesa for El Nido every 2 hours during the day until 6pm and then start again at 4am. Evening trips from El Nido back to Puerto Princesa is in 6 pm and 10 pm.

Bus seat reservation may apply so talk to your inn/hotel personnel and ask them to reserve you a seat (no charges).
Fare: 483 (one way)
Travel time: 6 to 7 hours

Van
Vans from Puerto Princesa going to El Nido are rampant during the day but the last trip from El Nido back to Puerto Princesa is 7pm. You could easily make a deal with Van drivers outside the airport or contact these Van companies:

Fort Wally: 0917-2762875
Eulen Joy: 0926-6998700
Lexus: 0917-5859612
Fare: 700 PhP

Travel Time: 5 to 6 hours