Port Barton to Puerto Princesa
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What to expect when visiting Puerto Princesa
Puerto Princesa is the capital of Palawan in the Philippines. A popular gateway to gorgeous destinations on the archipelago (like El Nido and Port Barton), travellers often skip a visit to Puerto Princesa.
If you’re just passing through, we recommend that you at least check out the interesting cuisine and cosy cafes in Puerto Princesa. But if you have extra time, why not also explore the iconic Underground River? It’s the longest subterranean river in the world! You can also visit Puerto Princesa’s white-sand beaches during the day and watch fireflies across the Nagsaguipi River at night.
2 ways to get from Port Barton to Puerto Princesa
There are two ways to travel the distance of 160 km (99 miles) from Port Barton to Puerto Princesa: by bus (4 hours) and minivan (3 hours). The journey takes between 3h - 4h and the quickest way is by minivan. The lowest priced tickets start from 380 PHP ($6.80) for the bus.Where to stay in Puerto Princesa?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Puerto Princesa at the bottom of this page.
Port Barton to Puerto Princesa by Bus
Going from Port Barton to Puerto Princesa by bus is pretty straightforward. There is only one bus operator with only 2 trips scheduled per day. The bus fare is 380 PHP ($6.80), and the trip takes about 4 hours.
Note that this non-airconditioned bus journey is much less comfortable than a van. Besides the lack of aircon, it has less comfortable seating and you will be swinging from right to left in every corner.
Departure and arrival station
Just like the vans, the buses also depart from Port Barton Bus Terminus.
Instead of the airport, they drop passengers off at San Jose Terminal, which is a bit outside Puerto Princesa town. From here, it’s a 20-minute ride to Puerto Princesa Airport and a 25-minute drive to the town centre.
Bus schedules from Port Barton to Puerto Princesa
You can buy your ticket at the terminal in Port Barton or book online in advance.
Port Barton to Puerto Princesa by Minivan
As there aren’t many bus trips from Port Barton to Puerto Princesa, the van is a more convenient option. Van tickets cost 650 PHP ($11.60) per person and the journey takes 3 hours.
There used to be several van operators before the pandemic, such as Klook, Lexxsus, and Recaro. The last time we checked, though, (April 2022), only Fortwally offers minivan trips between Port Barton and Puerto Princesa.
Departure and arrival station
Vans depart from Port Barton Bus Terminus, which is the same bus terminal as where you entered Port Barton.
Fortwally vans go straight to Puerto Princesa Airport. It’s a great option if you want to fly out of Palawan, but also if you are staying a night in Puerto Princesa. The airport is located in the city centre, which means it’s only a 10-15 minute walk or short taxi drive to most hotels in Puerto Princesa.
Minivan schedules from Port Barton to Puerto Princesa
Keep in mind that the trips can be irregular during the low season, and vans sometimes leave when they are full even if it’s not the scheduled departure. If you book your ticket online, make sure to be at the terminal at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure.
TIP: The van is the most preferred mode of transport in Palawan. Seats can fill up quickly, so always try to book at least 1 day in advance!
Our favourite places to stay in Puerto Princesa
Most people use Puerto Princesa as a jumping off point to other spots in the Philippines, meaning they’re only looking for a place for 1-2 nights. We’ve made sure our favourite stays tick that box, but are also great options if you want to stay a little longer.
All of our favourite stays are located in Puerto Princesa City. Here, you’ll be close to the airport, have easy access to the city’s attractions and have local markets to explore.
Panja Resort Palawan - Treating Yourself
Area: San Jose town — approx. 30-minute drive to Puerto Princesa city Baywalk Park and restaurants
An infinity pool overlooking the sea and jungle, a rooftop bar and an on-site spa. Can you ask for much more than that? Well, they’ll give you more! For every three nights that you book here, you get a free massage.
At Panja Resort, you’ll be able to escape the hustle and bustle of Puerto Princesa, but if you do need to get to the city, the hotel offers a free shuttle. This is the kind of place where you literally have to think about nothing!
- Infinity pool
- Incredible views
- Complimentary massage after a three nights’ stay
- Delicious breakfast included
Double rooms start from $50 per night
Summer Days - Mid Range
Area: Next to BM beach — approx. 10-minute drive to city centre
This place is an absolute steal! Summer Days feels like a high-end boutique hotel, just without the high price tag. Lucky for you! The hotel boasts an open and minimalist design, where every corner looks perfect.
The perfection continues with the owner and staff. They are fantastic and there to help with everything! Even better, you’re not far from the beach either.
- Beautiful design
- Friendly and helpful staff
- Great location
- Exceptional breakfast included
Double rooms cost $30-$50 per night
Cleon Villas Pension - Budget Friendly
Area: Puerto Princesa city centre — approx. 5-minute drive to Puerto Princesa International Airport
Staying here feels like you’ve got your own tiny home! The bungalows look like little houses from the outside, but feel spacious inside. You even have your own front porch to sit on and relax.
Whether you’re looking for help getting to El Nido, scooter rentals or a hidden beach recommendation, the owners will lend you a helping hand. They make this place truly special.
- Cute bungalow-style accommodation
- Clean and modern
- Amazing owners
- BBQ facilities
Double rooms cost $15-$30 per night
Frequently Asked Questions about Port Barton to Puerto Princesa
What is the distance from Port Barton to Puerto Princesa?
The distance from Port Barton to Puerto Princesa is 160 km (99 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Port Barton to Puerto Princesa?
The fastest way to get from Port Barton to Puerto Princesa is by minivan and takes 3 hours.
What is the cheapest way to get from Port Barton to Puerto Princesa?
The cheapest way to get from Port Barton to Puerto Princesa is by bus with ticket costs starting from 380 PHP ($6.80).
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Port Barton to Puerto Princesa. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
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Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she’s not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines… Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she’ll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
Abby is a writer who finds joy in mountains, beaches, and road trips. She considers her solo backpacking trip to the rice terraces of Bontoc one of the most fulfilling moments in her life. She’s loyal to the islands of her home country, the Philippines, but Thailand’s beaches also have a special place in her heart.
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