Day 1: Arrival in Puerto Princesa
Morning
- 08:00 – 09:00: Arrive at Puerto Princesa International Airport. This marks the beginning of your adventure in one of the Philippines’ most beautiful locations.
- 09:00 – 10:00: Take a cab to your hotel. You will be staying at Astoria Palawan, which has an average cost of PHP 5,500 or about $110. This hotel is known for its lovely beaches and friendly service.
- 10:00 – 12:00: For your first meal in Puerto Princesa, enjoy brunch at Pagdayon Restaurant where you can savor delicious local dishes for PHP 500, which is around $10. Don’t miss trying their fresh seafood!
Afternoon
- 12:30 – 15:00: Now it’s time to explore the stunning Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. The entrance fee is PHP 300, about $6. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its limestone karst landscapes and unique ecosystem.
- 15:00 – 17:00: Enjoy a guided boat tour of the underground river, which costs PHP 1,500 or $30. The tour gives you a chance to admire the impressive rock formations and observe various wildlife.
Evening
- 18:00 – 19:30: Head to Ramen Yushoken for dinner. It’s a great spot to indulge in some flavorful ramen, costing around PHP 600 or $12. The restaurant has a cozy vibe and is a favorite among locals.
- 20:00 onwards: Take a nice stroll through the city and visit Baywalk to experience the vibrant night market. Entry is free, and you’ll find many intriguing stalls selling local crafts, delicious street food, and unique souvenirs.
Day 2: Island Hopping in Honda Bay
Morning
- 07:00 – 08:00: Start your day with breakfast at your hotel. A well-balanced breakfast will energize you for the day ahead.
- 08:00 – 09:00: Get ready for a fun-filled day! Your pick-up for the Honda Bay island hopping tour will arrive. The tour will cost around PHP 1,200 or $24.
- 09:00 – 12:00: The first stop is Cowrie Island. Spend some time swimming and sunbathing here. The entry is free, making it an ideal spot to relax on the beach while soaking up the sun.
Afternoon
- 12:00 – 13:00: For lunch, delight your taste buds right on Cowrie Island; a meal will cost about PHP 500 or $10.
- 13:00 – 15:00: Next, visit Starfish Island where you can go snorkeling. The clear waters are teeming with colorful fish and vibrant corals.
- 15:00 – 17:00: Head to Pandan Island. It’s perfect to unwind on the beach and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Take a beach walk or just relax in a hammock.
Evening
- 18:00 – 19:00: After an exciting day, return to Puerto Princesa and refresh yourself.
- 19:30 – 21:00: For dinner, visit Kinabuch Grill and Bar. Here, enjoy a mix of local and international dishes for approximately PHP 800 or $16.
Day 3: Travel to El Nido
Morning
- 08:00 – 09:00: Breakfast at your hotel before checking out. Make sure to fuel up for your journey ahead.
- 09:00 – 12:00: Get ready for a scenic journey as you take a van to El Nido. The trip costs PHP 600 or about $12 and takes roughly 4 hours, but the views along the way are worth it!
Afternoon
- 12:30 – 13:30: Check into your new accommodation, El Nido Resorts, and enjoy lunch at their restaurant. Expect to spend around PHP 700 or $14 for a delicious meal overlooking the beach.
- 14:00 – 17:00: After lunch, relax at El Nido beach. You can wander the charming local shops, check out local crafts, and pick up a few souvenirs!
Evening
- 18:00 – 19:30: Dinner is at Trattoria Altrov’e, where Italian cuisine meets Filipino flavors for around PHP 600 or $12.
- 20:00 onwards: Experience the nightlife at Las Cabanas Beach. Grab a drink for about PHP 300 or $6 and watch the stars while enjoying the vibrant beach atmosphere.
Day 4: Island Hopping in El Nido
Morning
- 07:00 – 08:00: Have breakfast at your resort. Get ready for another adventure, you won’t want to miss any of the activities scheduled today!
- 08:30 – 09:00: Meet your tour guide for the island-hopping adventure. This will be an exciting day filled with exploration.
- 09:00 – 12:00: Visit the Big Lagoon and the Small Lagoon. The tour fee is about PHP 1,200 or $24, and you will be mesmerized by the stunning scenery.
Afternoon
- 12:00 – 13:00: Enjoy a beach lunch for roughly PHP 400 or $8. Relax and soak up the sunshine while you eat.
- 13:00 – 15:00: Explore Shimizu Island for more snorkeling opportunities. The vibrant marine life will amaze you!
- 15:00 – 17:00: Finally, venture into Secret Lagoon. This hidden gem offers only a small entrance and once inside, you can swim and enjoy the peaceful environment.
Evening
- 18:00 – 19:30: After a full day, return to El Nido and freshen up.
- 20:00 – 21:30: Have dinner at The Nesting Table, costing roughly PHP 700 or $14, and enjoy some delicious dishes made from local ingredients.
Day 5: Explore Nacpan Beach & Las Cabanas Beach
Morning
- 08:00 – 09:00: Start your day with breakfast. Fuel up for an exciting day ahead!
- 09:00 – 10:00: Hop on a tricycle to Nacpan Beach for about PHP 400 or $8. This picturesque beach is off the beaten path and offers a stunning view.
- 10:00 – 12:00: Enjoy Nacpan Beach where you can sunbathe, swim, or simply relax. The soft white sand and crystal-clear waters are perfect for having fun.
Afternoon
- 12:00 – 13:30: Have lunch at Nacpan Beach Restaurant for approximately PHP 500 or $10. The restaurant has a lovely view and serves tasty local food.
- 14:00 – 16:00: After lunch, take a short trip to explore Calitang Beach, which is nearby and offers breathtaking views.
- 16:00 – 18:00: Return to El Nido and head to Las Cabanas Beach for a picturesque sunset. The serene atmosphere is a perfect end to your day.
Evening
- 18:30 – 20:00: Enjoy dinner at Las Cabanas Restaurant, where you can indulge in delicious dishes for about PHP 600 or $12.
- 20:00 onwards: If the opportunity arises, enjoy a bonfire night! Otherwise, simply relax on the beach and listen to the soothing sound of the waves.
Day 6: Travel to Coron
Morning
- 07:00 – 08:00: Have breakfast and check out of your hotel. Make sure to pack all your belongings for the next adventure!
- 08:30 – 10:00: Catch a ferry to Coron. The ticket costs PHP 1,500 or $30 for a 4-hour ride. The views of the water along the way are a treat!
Afternoon
- 12:30 – 13:30: Once you arrive in Coron, enjoy lunch at Coron Bistro for around PHP 600 or $12, where you can taste various local dishes.
- 14:00 – 17:00: Spend the afternoon exploring Coron town. Visit the local market and see the vibrant community. There are many stalls selling fresh produce and handmade goods, which can be fascinating to explore.
Evening
- 18:00 – 19:30: Dinner at La Ruenza Restaurant is a must. Expect to pay around PHP 700 or $14 for a delightful meal.
- 20:00 onwards: Enjoy a quiet evening walk along the water. The surroundings at night are peaceful, giving you time to reflect on your exciting trip so far.
Day 7: Island Hopping Adventure in Coron
Morning
- 07:00 – 08:00: Have breakfast at your hotel. Prepare for a fantastic day filled with exploration and fun!
- 08:30 – 09:00: Join a guided tour for island hopping, which costs around PHP 1,200 or $24.
- 09:00 – 12:00: Your first stop is Kayangan Lake; the views you’re about to witness are breathtaking. It’s perfect for swimming and enjoying nature.
Afternoon
- 12:00 – 13:00: Lunch on one of the islands will cost around PHP 400 or $8. Eating within nature always adds to the experience, don’t you think?
- 13:00 – 15:00: After lunch, go snorkeling at Twin Lagoons. The rich marine life makes it heavenly for snorkelers of all skill levels.
- 15:00 – 17:00: Explore Siete Pecados for more snorkeling action. It’s a known spot for fish watching, and you’ll see various fish in crystal-clear waters.
Evening
- 18:00 – 19:30: Return to Coron and enjoy dinner at Sharon’s Place for about PHP 500 or $10. This place is famous for its delicious local fare.
- 20:00 onwards: Take a moment to reflect on your incredible trip. It’s your last night, so make the most of it by soaking in the surroundings.
Summary of Costs
- Total Accommodations (7 Nights): PHP 38,500 / $770
- Total Meals: PHP 10,400 / $208
- Transportation: PHP 4,800 / $96
- Activities & Tours: PHP 15,700 / $314
- Total Estimated Cost: PHP 69,400 / $1,388
Recommendations and Tips
- Book your tours and accommodations ahead of time. Places fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons, so it’s good to secure your spots early.
- Always carry cash with you. While some places may accept credit cards, many restaurants and markets only take cash.
- Pack sunblock, a swimsuit, and a dry bag for your belongings when going island hopping. You’ll want to stay protected from the sun while keeping your things dry.
- Whenever possible, try local food! Eating at local eateries is an exciting way to experience the culture and delight in new flavors.
- Respect the natural environment; make sure you take your trash with you from the islands. Keeping the beaches clean ensures that everyone, including future visitors, can experience their beauty.
FAQs
- Is it safe to travel to Palawan? Yes, Palawan is well-known for its tourism infrastructure, making it safe and welcoming for travelers.
- What is the best time to visit Palawan? The ideal time to explore Palawan is from November to May when you can enjoy dry weather with plenty of sunshine.
- How do I get around Palawan? You can use local transport options like tricycles and vans, or book guided tours that include transportation.
- Are there any activities suitable for kids? Absolutely! Many beaches, swimming spots, and easy hiking trails are perfect for families with children.
