Palawan is a beautiful island province in the western Philippines, known for its stunning beaches and natural wonders. Manila, the capital city, is the main gateway for travelers heading to Palawan. Many tourists and locals travel this route to enjoy Palawan’s famous spots like El Nido and Puerto Princesa.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Manila to Palawan, including flights and ferries. You will also get practical tips on booking, local transport, and what to expect on arrival.

Getting from Manila to Palawan – Main Options

Flight

Flying is the most popular and fastest way to reach Palawan from Manila. Several airlines operate daily flights to Palawan’s main airports, making it convenient for most travelers.

• Flights depart from Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) and arrive at Puerto Princesa Airport (PPS) or El Nido Airport (ENI), with a flight time of about 1.5 hours covering approximately 600 km.

• Airfares typically range from PHP 2,000 to PHP 5,000 one-way, depending on the airline, season, and how early you book through platforms like Cebu Pacific or Philippine Airlines.

• Flights are frequent, with multiple daily options, but expect higher prices and fuller flights during holiday seasons such as Christmas, Holy Week, and summer vacations.

• Puerto Princesa Airport is well connected to city transport, including tricycles and taxis, while El Nido Airport offers shuttle services to resorts and town centers, though pre-booking is recommended.

• Weather conditions like typhoons during the rainy season (June to November) can cause delays or cancellations, so check flight status and have flexible plans.

Ferry

Traveling by ferry is a less common but scenic option for those who prefer sea travel or want to bring vehicles. It is slower but offers a unique experience.

• Ferries depart from Manila North Harbor or Batangas Port to Puerto Princesa or Coron, taking approximately 18 to 24 hours depending on the route and vessel.

• Ticket prices range from PHP 1,000 to PHP 2,500 for economy class, with higher fares for air-conditioned or cabin accommodations.

• Ferries are less frequent, often operating a few times per week, so booking in advance through operators like 2GO Travel is essential, especially during peak seasons.

• Facilities onboard vary; some ferries have dining areas and restrooms, but comfort levels can be basic, so carry snacks and water for the long journey.

• Sea conditions can be rough during the monsoon season, so travelers prone to seasickness should prepare accordingly or consider flying instead.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Manila to Palawan is not possible due to the island geography. However, you can drive to ferry ports like Batangas or Manila North Harbor if you plan to take a ferry with your vehicle.

• Driving from Manila to Batangas Port takes about 2 to 3 hours via South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), covering around 110 km, depending on traffic.

• Parking is available at major ferry terminals, but it is advisable to confirm security and rates in advance to avoid issues.

• Driving in Palawan itself is possible, with roads connecting Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and other towns, but road conditions vary and some areas have limited fuel stations.

• Car rentals are available in Manila and Palawan, but booking ahead is recommended, especially during peak travel periods.

• Using GPS apps like Waze or Google Maps helps navigate Luzon highways and Palawan’s main roads, but offline maps are useful in remote areas with poor signal.

Flight and Ferry Combination

Some travelers combine flights and ferries to reach specific parts of Palawan, such as flying to Puerto Princesa and then taking a ferry to Coron.

• Fly from Manila to Puerto Princesa (1.5 hours), then take a ferry from Puerto Princesa to Coron, which takes about 4 to 6 hours depending on the vessel.

• Ferry tickets between Puerto Princesa and Coron cost around PHP 1,000 to PHP 1,500, with daily or alternate day schedules depending on the season.

• This option offers flexibility and the chance to explore multiple destinations in Palawan but requires careful coordination of flight and ferry timings.

• Booking both flights and ferries in advance is crucial to avoid long waits or missed connections, especially during holidays.

• Local transport options like tricycles and vans are available at ferry ports for onward travel to resorts or towns.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Manila to Palawan, helping you prepare and navigate the journey smoothly.

• Book your flight tickets early through official airline websites or trusted travel portals to get the best fares and confirm your travel dates well in advance.

• Pack light and carry essentials like sunscreen, water, and a small first aid kit, as Palawan’s climate is tropical and some areas have limited medical facilities.

• Arrive at Manila airport at least 2 hours before your flight to complete check-in and security, as Manila airports can be busy and queues long.

• On arrival in Palawan, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Grab for safe and reliable transport to your accommodation.

• If taking a ferry, arrive at the port early to complete boarding procedures and secure good seating, and carry snacks and entertainment for the long journey.

• Keep your travel documents, booking confirmations, and identification handy throughout the trip for smooth check-ins and local verifications.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water in Palawan to prevent stomach issues, as water quality varies across the island.

• Use official taxi stands or book rides through apps like Grab to avoid overcharging and ensure safety, especially when arriving late at night.

• Book flights and ferries at least 2 to 3 weeks ahead during peak seasons like Christmas or summer to avoid sold-out situations and inflated prices.

• Travel light and use luggage with sturdy wheels, as some ferry terminals and local transport may require walking on uneven surfaces or stairs.

• Be cautious of weather updates during the rainy season; typhoons can disrupt flights and ferries, so have flexible plans and travel insurance.

• Try local food from trusted restaurants or resorts, but avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach, and carry basic medicines for digestion.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Manila to Palawan is during the dry season, which runs from November to May. This period offers clear skies, calm seas, and comfortable temperatures.

Travel during the rainy season (June to October) can be challenging due to frequent typhoons and heavy rains, which may cause flight delays and rough ferry rides.

• Avoid traveling during major Philippine holidays like Christmas, New Year, and Holy Week, as flights and ferries are crowded and prices rise sharply.

• Early morning flights are less likely to be delayed and offer smoother travel experiences, especially during the hot summer months.

• Monsoon rains can cause ferry cancellations or rough seas, so check weather forecasts and have backup plans if traveling by sea.

• Peak tourist season in Palawan is from December to April, so book accommodations and transport well in advance to secure availability.

Arrival at Palawan & What to Expect

When you arrive at Puerto Princesa or El Nido airports, you will find several local transport options including tricycles, taxis, and shuttle vans. Prepaid taxi counters are common and recommended for fixed fares.

Accommodation options are available near the airport and in town centers. Puerto Princesa has more urban facilities, while El Nido offers direct access to resorts and beaches but fewer city amenities. Using app-based cabs like Grab is possible in Puerto Princesa but limited in smaller towns.

Conclusion

Flying from Manila to Palawan is the most efficient and convenient way to travel, with multiple daily flights and quick travel times. Booking early and choosing your arrival airport based on your final destination in Palawan will save time and hassle.

Careful planning, especially around weather and peak seasons, will ensure a smooth journey. With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip from Manila to Palawan and enjoy the stunning beauty of this island paradise without stress.