El Nido - Puerto Princesa: Private van transfer with stops

Summary

Rolling south from El Nido to Puerto Princesa, with a few surprises

You’ll travel from El Nido to Puerto Princesa in your own private van with an English-speaking driver—stopping for snacks or even visiting the Underground River if you want. Enjoy comfortable seats, space for your luggage, hotel or airport drop-off included. It’s an unhurried ride where small moments—like roadside snacks or sudden rain—stick with you long after you arrive.

What’s the experience like?

We pulled out of El Nido just after sunrise, the van still cool from the night air and our driver—Jun, I think he said—waving off my attempt to help with the bags. There’s something about those first few minutes on the road, when you’re not sure if you’ll nap or just watch the world go by. The van was quiet except for someone’s playlist humming low, and outside it was all palm trees and sleepy villages. I kept thinking how different this felt from the crowded buses—no strangers’ elbows, just us and our own space.

About two hours in, Jun asked if we wanted to stop for snacks or stretch our legs. We ended up at a roadside stand where I tried some sticky rice wrapped in banana leaf (I can’t remember what it’s called—Li laughed when I tried to say it in Tagalog). The air smelled like grilled corn and diesel; there were kids chasing chickens around a tricycle parked nearby. It’s funny how these little breaks make the long drive feel less like a chore and more like a slow-motion tour of Palawan itself.

We’d arranged to visit the Puerto Princesa Underground River on the way—a bit of a detour but worth it. The cave was cool and echoey, bats overhead, our guide pointing out rock shapes that looked like animals (or maybe that was just my imagination). Afterward, back in the van, everyone was quieter. Maybe tired, maybe just letting it all sink in. The last stretch into Puerto Princesa went by fast—I remember watching rain streak sideways across the window as we got closer to town.

I still think about that drive sometimes—the way Jun knew every pothole and shortcut, or how time slowed down somewhere between stops. If you’re heading from El Nido to Puerto Princesa (or the other way), this private transfer is honestly just easy. No rush, no crowds, just your own pace—and maybe a few unexpected moments along the way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — El Nido to Puerto Princesa Transfer

• Book with Puerto Princesa No.1 Transport Company
• Visit Puerto Princesa Underground River

Top questions

How long does the private transfer from El Nido to Puerto Princesa take?

The journey usually takes about 5–6 hours by private van.

Is pickup at my hotel in El Nido included?

Yes, pickup at your hotel in El Nido is included in this private transfer service.

Can I be dropped off directly at Puerto Princesa Airport?

Yes, you can request drop-off at either your hotel or Puerto Princesa International Airport.

Is there an option to visit the Underground River during the transfer?

You may arrange a stop at Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park on your way.

What type of vehicles are used for this transfer?

The service uses Toyota Grandia GL, Toyota Commuter, Nissan NV350 or Nissan NV350 Premium vans.

Are there stops along the way for food or restrooms?

Yes, there are 2–3 mandatory short stops during the trip for restrooms or snacks.

Is this transfer suitable for travelers with wheelchairs?

The service is wheelchair accessible and suitable for all fitness levels.

How many people can fit in one van?

The maximum seating capacity per van is 8 passengers.

What’s included

Your trip includes private transportation in a modern air-conditioned van with an English-speaking driver; pickup at your hotel in El Nido; free drop-off at either your hotel or Puerto Princesa Airport; fuel fees; space for luggage; plus 2–3 short stops along the route—and if you want, time to visit the Underground River before reaching town.