Transportation in Palawan is a vital aspect of visiting the island as it will determine how easily and comfortably you can move around to explore all the natural and cultural wonders it has to offer. Palawan is an island province located in the western region of the Philippines and it is known for its beautiful beaches, limestone cliffs, and diverse marine life. The island is quite large and getting around can be quite a challenge, especially if you are not familiar with the local transportation options. In this article, we will discuss how to get to Palawan from the surrounding main cities in the country, how to move around the city, ease, cost, and safety of the transportation options available.
The most common way to get to Palawan is by taking a flight to the city of Puerto Princesa, which is the capital of the province. There are several domestic airlines that operate flights to Puerto Princesa from Manila, Cebu, and other major cities in the Philippines. The flight takes about an hour and a half and the cost ranges from $50 to $100 depending on the airline and time of booking.
Once you arrive in Puerto Princesa, you can take a tricycle or a jeepney to get to your hotel or resort. Tricycles are small motorcycles with a sidecar that can accommodate up to three passengers. They are cheap and convenient for short distances. Jeepneys are larger vehicles that can carry more passengers and are used for longer distances. The fare for both tricycles and jeepneys is quite affordable, usually around $0.50 to $1.00 per person.
If you plan to explore the island and visit the famous Underground River, El Nido, Coron or other places, you can rent a van or a car with a driver. This is a bit more expensive than public transportation but it offers more flexibility and comfort. The cost for renting a van or a car with a driver ranges from $40 to $100 per day depending on the distance and duration of the trip.
Another option for getting around Palawan is by taking a boat or a ferry. This is a great way to visit the island’s many beaches and islands. There are several boat and ferry companies that operate in Palawan, offering services to different destinations. The cost of a boat or ferry ride ranges from $10 to $50 depending on the destination and the duration of the trip.
When it comes to ease, all the transportation options in Palawan are relatively easy to use and understand. However, it’s worth noting that many of the drivers and guides are not fluent in English, so it can be beneficial to have a basic knowledge of the local language.
When it comes to safety, Palawan is generally considered a safe place to travel. However, as with any destination, it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Overall, transportation in Palawan is quite affordable and easily accessible. With a little bit of planning and preparation, you can make the most of your time on the island and enjoy all the natural and cultural wonders it has to offer. Whether you choose to rent a car, take a boat, or rely on public transportation, getting around Palawan is easy and fun.
