The Ultimate Guide to Motorbike Rentals in Palawan (2026)

Puerto Princesa Area Routes

1. Puerto Princesa to Sabang (Underground River)

Distance: 80 km north
Duration: 2-2.5 hours one way
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

This easy-to-moderate ride along the national highway takes you to one of Palawan’s most famous attractions: the UNESCO World Heritage Underground River. The road is generally well-maintained, though you’ll navigate some winding sections through forested mountains. The journey itself offers incredible jungle scenery and mountain views.

The Underground River requires advance booking as permits are limited and the attraction often sells out, especially during peak season. Book your tour at least 2-3 days in advance, or even earlier during March-May. For the best experience, start your ride very early, departing Puerto Princesa between 5-6 AM to arrive at the Underground River by 8-9 AM for your tour. This early start helps you avoid the worst of the heat and get on the water before crowds arrive.

After your river tour, head to Sabang Beach for excellent swimming and fresh seafood at restaurants where you can refuel before the return journey. Plan to ride back by 2 PM to avoid the hottest part of the afternoon. Budget ₱250-₱400 for a fuel round trip.

2. Honda Bay Island Hopping Base

Distance: 10 km from Puerto Princesa city center
Duration: 20-30 minutes
Difficulty: Very Easy

This very easy ride along completely paved city roads takes you to the departure point for Honda Bay’s famous island-hopping tours. The bay offers access to stunning islands, including Starfish Island, Cowrie Island, and Luli Island. This route perfectly combines motorbike riding with boat-based island exploration.

Park your motorcycle at one of the secure resorts near the pier for ₱20-₱50, enjoy a full day of island hopping by boat, then return to your bike for an enjoyable evening ride back to the city. The short, easy route makes this accessible for riders of all skill levels.

3. Puerto Princesa to Iwahig Firefly Watching

Distance: 22 km south of the city
Duration: 30-40 minutes
Difficulty: Easy (Night Riding Required)

This easy ride along a paved highway takes you to one of Palawan’s most magical evening experiences: firefly watching along the Iwahig River. The route is straightforward and safe, though you’ll need to ride back after dark, so ensure your headlights are in good working condition.

Depart Puerto Princesa around 5:00 PM to arrive well before sunset. The firefly tour typically departs around 7 PM, creating a natural light show along the mangrove trees. Book your tour in advance as slots fill quickly. Only attempt this route if you’re comfortable with night riding.

4. Puerto Princesa to Nagtabon Beach

Distance: 18 km northwest
Duration: 13-40 minutes
Difficulty: Easy

Nagtabon Beach offers a stunning alternative to more crowded beaches, featuring a long crescent of golden sand backed by coconut palms. The ride follows mostly paved roads, with a short, easily manageable unpaved final approach.

The beach is popular with surfers but equally perfect for swimming during calmer weather. Simple beachfront restaurants serve fresh seafood at reasonable prices. This makes an excellent half-day trip from Puerto Princesa.

5. Puerto Princesa City Tour Loop

Distance: 20-30 km
Duration: 2-3 hours
Difficulty: Easy

Explore Puerto Princesa’s highlights by motorcycle: visit the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, cruise the scenic Baywalk with ocean views, stop at Plaza Cuartel historical site, visit Mendoza Park, and explore the vibrant public market. This urban loop helps you get comfortable riding in Philippine traffic while seeing the city’s main attractions. All roads are paved and well-maintained.

For detailed information about all Puerto Princesa attractions and comprehensive travel planning, visit our complete Puerto Princesa travel guide.

Pro Riding Tips for These Routes

Starting your rides early changes everything about your experience. Palawan’s temperature soars above 35°C by 11 AM, making midday riding uncomfortable and exhausting. Departing between 6-7 AM means you’ll ride in cooler temperatures, encounter less traffic, and arrive at destinations before crowds appear. The early morning light also provides the best conditions for photography.

Fuel planning in Palawan requires constant attention. Always begin every ride with a completely full tank, regardless of distance. Gas stations vanish quickly once you leave major towns. If your gauge shows half-full and you see a gas station, fill up immediately – the next station might be 50 kilometers away or non-existent.

The Loncin’s center stand provides a huge advantage during photo stops. Unlike side stands that can sink into soft ground or tip on uneven surfaces, the center stand keeps your motorcycle stable and upright while you walk around taking photos. Use it at scenic viewpoints, beaches, and anywhere you want stable parking.

Wildlife awareness prevents accidents. Slow down when riding through villages because children, dogs, and chickens may dart into the road without warning. Water buffalo move unpredictably and won’t yield to motorcycles. Maintain defensive speed and stay alert, especially during early morning and late afternoon when animals are most active.

Safety Tips for Riding in Palawan

Essential Rules

• 🛡️ Always wear a helmet – It’s legally required in the Philippines, and police checkpoints are frequent. You’ll face a ₱1,500 fine if caught without one.
• 🛡️ Never ride intoxicated – Drunk driving laws are strictly enforced throughout the Philippines, and penalties are severe.
• 🛡️ Drive on the RIGHT side of the road – The Philippines follows right-hand traffic, which may be different from your home country.
• 🛡️ Use your headlight at all times – Both day and night, as this increases your visibility to other vehicles and is standard safety practice.
• 🛡️ Honk before blind corners – This is standard Philippine driving practice to warn oncoming traffic of your approach.
• 🛡️ Watch carefully for livestock – Animals, including water buffalo, dogs, and chickens, frequently wander onto roads without warning.
• 🛡️ Slow down significantly at night – Due to limited street lighting on most Palawan roads outside major towns.

Palawan-Specific Road Challenges

Coastal Roads

• Sudden sharp turns with limited visibility
• Sandy patches from beach erosion (tire slip risk)
• Wet spots from ocean spray (slippery even when dry)
• Strong crosswinds on exposed sections

Mountain Passes

• Steep grades require lower gears
• Sudden fog during early morning hours
• Fallen rocks and debris after rain
• Local jeepneys dominate narrow roads

Rural Village Roads

• Children and dogs running into roads without warning
• Tricycles are making unexpected stops and turns
• Markets are creating sudden road obstructions
• Unmarked speed bumps (“humps”) that can damage your bike

Defensive Riding in Philippine Traffic

The Philippine driving culture differs significantly from that in Western countries, and understanding these differences keeps you safer. Lane discipline is flexible, with motorcycles often riding between lanes in ways that would be illegal elsewhere. Right of way generally goes to the bigger vehicle, meaning buses and jeepneys typically won’t yield to motorcycles.

Using your horn liberally is not considered rude here; it’s standard communication between vehicles. Flashing your headlights is a common practice at intersections to assert your right of way. Most importantly, expect the unexpected because vehicles routinely reverse on highways, stop suddenly without warning, or make U-turns in seemingly impossible locations.

In Case of Accident

If you’re involved in an accident, follow these steps:

1. Never leave the scene – This may be considered hit-and-run and carry serious legal consequences
2. Check for injuries – Immediately check yourself and others and dial 911 or 143 for emergency services if needed
3. Document everything – Take photos of all damage, the exact location, other parties involved, and road conditions
4. Contact our rental team immediately – We’ll guide you through the next steps specific to your situation
5. File a police report – Required for any claims or insurance purposes
6. Exchange information – Get names, contact details, and vehicle information from all parties involved
7. Do NOT admit fault – Let the proper authorities determine what happened and who was responsible

Emergency Contacts You Should Know

Keep these numbers saved in your phone before you start riding:

• Emergency Services: 911 (for any serious incident)
• Tourist Police: 143 (specifically helps foreign visitors)
• Rental Hotline: Provided at pickup for any motorcycle-specific issues or questions during your rental period

For more comprehensive safety information, read our complete safety guide for solo adventure travelers.

Fuel Information

Current Prices (2026)

• Regular: ₱65-₱75/liter
• Premium: ₱75-₱85/liter (required for our bike)

Gas Stations

• El Nido: 3-4 stations
• Puerto Princesa: Multiple stations
• Rural areas: Very limited

Fuel Efficiency

Loncin RC Classic 250fi: 8-10 liter tank = 240-350 km range

Critical Tips

• Fill up before leaving major towns
• Never let the tank drop below 1/4
• Return with a full premium tank
• Ask locals for “gasolinahan” (roadside vendors)

What to Pack

Essential Items

• Passport & IDP
• ₱5,000-₱10,000 cash
• Long pants & closed-toe shoes
• Sunglasses or goggles
• Sunscreen SPF 50+
• Rain poncho
• Phone with offline maps
• Waterproof bag
• Water bottle (2-3 liters)

Familiarize yourself with essential Filipino phrases before your trip to enhance your experience.