Introduction
Palawan is one of the most beautiful destinations in the Philippines. With its pristine beaches, lush jungles, and warm waters, it is a popular destination for travelers looking for an adventure. But getting there can be a challenge. Manila, the capital city of the Philippines, lies more than 500 miles from Palawan, making it a long journey. In this article, we will explore the different ways you can travel from Manila to Palawan, including driving, taking the ferry, flying, and cruising.
Driving from Manila to Palawan: A Comprehensive Guide
Driving from Manila to Palawan is the longest route, but it also offers the most flexibility. The total distance is around 1,100 kilometers, which is about a 24-hour drive. If you’re planning on driving, here are some important things to keep in mind.
Route Overview
The most common route from Manila to Palawan is via the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) and the Subic–Clark–Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX). From SLEX, take the San Fernando Exit and head towards Porac, then take the SCTEX to Angeles City. From there, take the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and exit at Tarlac. Then take the Tarlac–Pangasinan–La Union Expressway (TPLEX) to San Fernando, La Union. From there, take the National Highway to Bauang, La Union and then proceed to Cagayan Valley Road until you reach Palawan.
Preparations and Tips
If you’re planning on driving from Manila to Palawan, it’s important to make sure you have all the necessary documents and supplies. Make sure you have your driver’s license and registration papers with you, as well as a valid ID. You should also check that your car is in good working condition before embarking on the trip. You should also bring enough food, water, and snacks to last the entire journey.
Pit Stops Along the Way
If you’re driving from Manila to Palawan, it’s also a good idea to plan out your pit stops along the way. You can stop in places like Banaue or Baguio to break up the long journey. You can also visit the Hundred Islands National Park or the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. These stops will give you the chance to stretch your legs and explore some of the amazing sights in the region.
Taking the Ferry from Manila to Palawan: Tips and Advice
Another option for traveling from Manila to Palawan is taking the ferry. There are several shipping companies that offer regular routes between the two cities. Here are some tips and advice if you’re thinking of taking the ferry.
Different Types of Ferries
There are two main types of ferries that you can take from Manila to Palawan. The first is the fastcraft, which is a high-speed ferry that takes around 6 hours to reach Palawan. The second is the slow boat, which takes around 12 hours. Both types of ferries have air-conditioned cabins and provide meals during the journey.
Cost and Duration
The cost of taking the ferry from Manila to Palawan depends on the type of ferry and the company you choose. Generally, the fastcraft is more expensive than the slow boat. The duration of the journey also varies depending on the type of ferry and the weather conditions. In general, it takes around 6 hours for the fastcraft and 12 hours for the slow boat.
Safety Tips
It’s important to keep safety in mind when taking the ferry from Manila to Palawan. Make sure you follow all safety instructions given by the crew, such as wearing life jackets and keeping doors and windows closed in rough seas. It’s also a good idea to bring motion sickness medication if you’re prone to seasickness.
Flying from Manila to Palawan: What You Need to Know
If you’re looking for a faster option, you can also fly from Manila to Palawan. Here are the things you need to know about flying.
Airlines Offering Flights
There are several airlines that offer flights from Manila to Palawan. Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific Air, and AirAsia are some of the most popular airlines. Prices vary depending on the airline and availability.
Cost of Flights
The cost of flights from Manila to Palawan depends on the airline and availability. Generally, flights start at around 1,500 PHP ($30 USD).
Airport Information
The main airport in Palawan is Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS). The airport is located just outside the city and has regular domestic flights to Manila and other major cities in the Philippines. There are also international flights to countries such as Japan, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
Exploring Palawan by Land: The Best Routes from Manila
If you’re looking to explore Palawan by land, there are several routes you can take from Manila. Popular routes include the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), the Subic–Clark–Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), the Tarlac–Pangasinan–La Union Expressway (TPLEX), and the National Highway. Depending on the route you take, travel time can range from 6 to 8 hours.
Popular Routes
The most popular route from Manila to Palawan is via the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) and the Subic–Clark–Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX). From SLEX, take the San Fernando Exit and head towards Porac, then take the SCTEX to Angeles City. From there, take the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and exit at Tarlac. Then take the Tarlac–Pangasinan–La Union Expressway (TPLEX) to San Fernando, La Union. From there, take the National Highway to Bauang, La Union and then proceed to Cagayan Valley Road until you reach Palawan.
Travel Time and Distance
The total distance from Manila to Palawan is around 1,100 kilometers, which is about a 24-hour drive. However, depending on the route you take and traffic conditions, it can take anywhere from 6 to 8 hours to reach Palawan.
Accommodation Options
If you’re planning on taking a long road trip from Manila to Palawan, it’s a good idea to book accommodation along the way. There are several budget hotels and resorts located near major highways, so you can rest and recharge before continuing your journey.
Cruising from Manila to Palawan: An Overview of Options
If you’re looking for a more luxurious way to travel from Manila to Palawan, you can also take a cruise. There are several cruise companies that offer regular routes between the two cities. Here’s what you need to know about cruising from Manila to Palawan.
Cruise Companies
The two main cruise companies that offer regular routes from Manila to Palawan are Star Cruises and 2GO Cruises. Both companies offer luxury cruises with on-board amenities such as restaurants, bars, and entertainment.
Duration and Cost
The duration of the cruise from Manila to Palawan depends on the cruise company and the route you choose. Generally, cruises last from 4 to 7 days. The cost of the cruise also varies depending on the company and route. Prices start at around 10,000 PHP ($200 USD).
On-Board Activities
Most cruises from Manila to Palawan offer a range of activities to keep passengers entertained. These include shows, fitness classes, lectures, and games. There are also various restaurants and bars where you can enjoy local and international cuisine.
Conclusion
Traveling from Manila to Palawan is an exciting journey filled with adventure and exploration. Whether you’re driving, taking the ferry, flying, or cruising, there are plenty of options to choose from. This article has provided a comprehensive guide on how to travel from Manila to Palawan, covering driving, taking the ferry, flying, exploring by land and cruising. No matter which method you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.
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