Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan, is the main gateway to one of the most beautiful island provinces in the Philippines. Known as the “City in a Forest,” it is home to the Puerto Princesa Underground River, Honda Bay’s island-hopping paradise, and a vibrant mix of cultural, culinary, and eco-tourism attractions. Before enjoying these wonders, visitors must first plan how to get here. Fortunately, Puerto Princesa is accessible by air, sea, and land, with multiple options catering to different travel styles and budgets. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about getting to Puerto Princesa—from flights and ferries to buses and private transfers.
Traveling to Puerto Princesa by Air
The fastest and most convenient way to reach Puerto Princesa is by plane. The city is served by the Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS), which is located just five to ten minutes from the city proper. The airport accommodates both domestic and limited international flights, making it a top choice for most travelers.
Domestic Flights
Daily flights connect Puerto Princesa with major cities in the Philippines, particularly:
- Manila (MNL – Ninoy Aquino International Airport): The busiest route, with multiple flights per day operated by Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia. Flight time is about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Cebu (CEB – Mactan-Cebu International Airport): Ideal for travelers coming from the Visayas or those on international layovers in Cebu. Flight time is about 1 hour and 10 minutes.
- Clark (CRK – Clark International Airport): Serves travelers based in Central and Northern Luzon. Flights take around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Davao (DVO – Francisco Bangoy International Airport): Occasional direct flights are available for those coming from Mindanao.
International Flights
Puerto Princesa International Airport occasionally serves direct international flights from nearby Asian hubs such as Seoul (South Korea) and Taipei (Taiwan). However, schedules may vary depending on demand and season. For most international travelers, the common route is to arrive in Manila or Cebu and then take a connecting domestic flight.
Airport Facilities
The airport is modern and relatively new, featuring a terminal with basic amenities such as baggage claim areas, waiting lounges, car rental counters, and food stalls. Being centrally located, it provides quick access to city hotels, restaurants, and tour pick-up points.
Traveling to Puerto Princesa by Sea
For those who prefer slower travel or wish to bring vehicles, ferries connect Puerto Princesa to other parts of the Philippines. Although less common than flights, sea travel offers a unique experience and scenic views of the archipelago.
Ferries from Manila
2Go Travel operates passenger ships from Manila to Puerto Princesa, with trips lasting around 24 hours. These ferries provide a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly bunk beds to private cabins. Onboard, travelers can enjoy food services, entertainment, and common areas.
Ferries from Other Ports
Occasional routes from Iloilo and Coron are also available, although schedules may vary depending on season and shipping companies. Ferries are recommended for travelers who are not in a rush and want to combine Puerto Princesa with other destinations in a more leisurely manner.
Getting to Puerto Princesa by Land
While Puerto Princesa itself is on the island of Palawan, some travelers arrive in other Palawan destinations such as El Nido or San Vicente and then travel by land to the city. This is done through buses, vans, or private transfers.
From El Nido to Puerto Princesa
- Public Buses: Companies like Cherry Bus operate air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned buses. Travel time is 5–6 hours.
- Shared Vans: More frequent and slightly faster than buses, vans take around 4–5 hours but can be cramped during peak season.
- Private Transfers: Ideal for groups or families wanting comfort and flexibility. Private vans or cars can be booked in advance, with travel time of around 4.5 hours.
From San Vicente (Port Barton) to Puerto Princesa
San Vicente is another popular destination in Palawan, known for its Long Beach and Port Barton area. From here:
- Vans to Puerto Princesa take around 3–4 hours.
- Private transfers are available and are more convenient for larger groups or those with luggage.
From Other Parts of Palawan
Travelers from Roxas, Taytay, or southern Palawan municipalities can also reach Puerto Princesa via buses, jeepneys, and vans. Travel times vary depending on distance and road conditions, but Puerto Princesa is well-connected as the island’s main hub.
Getting Around After Arrival
Once in Puerto Princesa, travelers have multiple transport options to move around the city and access hotels, restaurants, and tour jump-off points:
- Tricycles: The most common and affordable way to get around within the city proper.
- Taxis and Car Rentals: Less common than in larger cities, but available for those who prefer private travel.
- Shuttle Vans: Often arranged by hotels and tour operators for airport pick-ups and scheduled trips.
- Motorbike Rentals: Popular among adventurous travelers who want to explore at their own pace.
Travel Tips for Visitors
- Book Flights Early: Peak season (November–May) sees high demand, so securing tickets in advance is recommended.
- Be Flexible with Ferries: Sea travel schedules can be affected by weather conditions, so always have backup plans.
- Choose Your Transfer Wisely: Vans are faster but can be cramped; buses are roomier but slower. Private transfers offer the most comfort.
- Allow Extra Time: If connecting flights, give yourself ample layover time, especially if traveling through Manila’s busy airport terminals.
- Check Environmental Fees: Some tour destinations around Puerto Princesa require eco-taxes or environmental fees, which are often included in tour packages.
Puerto Princesa as a Gateway
Getting to Puerto Princesa is more than just reaching a destination—it’s the first step into discovering Palawan’s unmatched beauty. The city serves as the main transport hub for exploring the rest of the province, including El Nido, Coron, Port Barton, Roxas, Taytay, and Balabac. Many tour operators and transport companies offer packages that combine Puerto Princesa with these nearby destinations, making it a convenient base for longer adventures.
Getting There
Whether you arrive by air, sea, or land, Puerto Princesa is an accessible and welcoming gateway to Palawan. With its international airport, ferry connections, and land transport network, getting here has never been easier. Once you set foot in the “City in a Forest,” the journey quickly proves worthwhile—ushering you into a world of breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences. Plan your trip wisely, book ahead when needed, and get ready to explore everything Puerto Princesa and Palawan have to offer.
