Planning a trip to Palawan? Whether you’re heading to the famous Underground River in Puerto Princesa or making the long drive to El Nido, you’ll quickly face a big decision: Should you take a shared van or rent your own vehicle?
While shared vans might look affordable, they often turn into long, uncomfortable journeys that waste your time. The smarter choice is to rent a pick-up truck, SUV, or sedan in Puerto Princesa – and here’s why.
The Problem with Shared Vans in Palawan
- Locals may tell you the Underground River is only 2 hours away, but the truth is it often takes 3–4 hours.
- Before even leaving Puerto Princesa, drivers spend up to 1 hour picking up passengers from multiple hotels.
- Shared vans make frequent stops along the way, dropping off and picking up customers.
Heading to El Nido? Google Maps might say 5–6 hours, but in reality, it can be 8–10 hours or more. For families with small kids, sitting through this long ride can be exhausting and stressful.
Why Renting a Car in Puerto Princesa Makes Sense
To rent a Pick-up Truck in Puerto Princesa City, click here
instead of squeezing into a van; rent your own pick-up truck or SUV in Palawan. Starting at just ₱3,000/day (self-drive), you get:
- A strong vehicle for Palawan’s mountain roads with steep climbs and descents.
- Space to store your luggage safely in the back.
- Freedom to drive at your own pace and stop only when you want.
- Comfort and flexibility, especially if traveling with family or kids.
If you’re traveling light, you can also rent a sedan in Puerto Princesa from just ₱1,500/day through Book2Wheel – a perfect option for couples or solo travelers.
Driving Tips for Palawan Travelers
- Don’t fully trust Google travel times. If it says 8 hours, expect 12–16 hours instead.
- Always drive during the day if it’s your first time in Palawan – roads are mountainous and challenging at night.
- Drive slowly, relax, and enjoy the stunning views along the way.
Final Thoughts: Car Rental vs Shared Van in Palawan
Shared vans may look cheap, but they cost you time, comfort, and peace of mind. Renting a car in Palawan – whether a sedan, SUV, or pick-up truck – gives you the freedom to explore Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and beyond on your own schedule.
👉 Find the latest Palawan car rental deals on Book2Wheel.com. Browse listings, compare prices, and book directly online for a stress-free trip.