Puerto Princesa is Palawan\\\’s provincial capital and the gateway to the Underground River, one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. From Manila, the direct flight takes around 1 hour 20 minutes, making it the standard way to reach this part of Palawan.
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Flights: Manila to Puerto Princesa
Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and AirAsia Philippines all operate direct flights from Manila (NAIA) to Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS). The flight takes around 1 hour 20 minutes, with multiple daily departures across all three carriers.
- Journey time: ~1 hour 20 minutes
- Price: from ~₱1,500–4,000 PHP ($27–71 USD)
- Airlines: Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, AirAsia Philippines
- Frequency: Multiple daily flights
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Visiting the Underground River
The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is about 1.5–2 hours from the city by road, via Sabang. Most visitors book a day tour that includes transport, the boat trip to the cave entrance, and the underground boat tour itself. Advance booking is required as daily visitor numbers are capped.
Where to Stay in Puerto Princesa
The city centre has the widest range of budget and mid-range hotels, convenient for the airport and city attractions. Sabang, closer to the Underground River, has a smaller selection of resorts if you prefer to stay nearer the park.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I book the Underground River tour?
Book through a Puerto Princesa-based tour operator or your hotel — daily visitor permits are limited, so arrange this in advance, especially during peak season (December–April).
Is Puerto Princesa the same as El Nido?
No — they\\\’re different towns on the same island of Palawan. Puerto Princesa is the provincial capital in the south with the Underground River; El Nido is in the north, famous for its lagoons and limestone islands. They\\\’re connected by a 5–6 hour road journey.
Related Guides
- El Nido to Puerto Princesa: Van Guide
- Manila to El Nido: Flight Guide
- Manila to Coron: Flight Guide
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