Day 1: Arrival in Puerto Princesa
Morning (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- 8:00 AM – Land at Puerto Princesa International Airport. From there, take a quick transfer to your hotel. We recommend the Acacia Tree Garden Hotel, which costs around PHP 2,400 per night or about $48.
- 9:00 AM – Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel. Don’t miss trying the local delicacies such as longganisa, a type of sausage, and pandit, a yummy breakfast dish (PHP 200 or $4).
- 10:00 AM – Head over to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. The tour package here costs about PHP 1,500 or $30. This price includes your entrance fee and a tour guide.
- 11:00 AM – Get on a boat to the river! This is your chance to explore some truly breathtaking limestone caves.
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
- 12:30 PM – After all that exploring, grab lunch at Bona’s Chao Long. Their Pho here is a must-try (PHP 150 or $3).
- 1:30 PM – Next stop is the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center, where the entry fee costs around PHP 500 or $10. Get to see amazing wildlife up close!
- 3:00 PM – If you’re in the mood for some shopping, visit the local markets. You can find handmade crafts, unique souvenirs, and gorgeous Palawan pearls!
- 4:30 PM – Wind down at a local café. Check out Itoy’s Coffee Haus for a tasty, refreshing drink (PHP 150 or $3).
Evening (6:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
- 6:00 PM – Dinner time! Make your way to KaLui Restaurant, famous for its seafood and traditional Philippine atmosphere. A meal here will cost about PHP 800 or $16.
- 8:00 PM – Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the baywalk. The evening breeze feels delightful!
- 8:30 PM – Are you hungry for a late-night snack? Sample some local street food like fish balls (PHP 50 or $1) for a fun treat.
- 9:00 PM – Finally, it’s time to head back to your hotel for a good night’s sleep.
Day 2: Island Hopping in Honda Bay
Morning (7:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- 7:00 AM – Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before you head out.
- 8:00 AM – Join a fun island-hopping tour of Honda Bay. This will cost about PHP 2,500 or $50. The price covers the boat ride, guide fees, and a delicious lunch!
- 9:00 AM – Your first stop will be Cowrie Island. Take this time to swim, relax, and catch some sun.
- 11:00 AM – Off to Luli Island for even more relaxation and perhaps a little exploration.
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
- 12:30 PM – Lunch at Cowrie Island will be beachside and included in your tour package.
- 1:30 PM – Get ready for a snorkeling session at the amazing coral gardens located at Snorkel Island. Bring your gear!
- 3:30 PM – Visit Starfish Island, where you can take your time observing different types of starfish.
- 4:30 PM – After a fun-filled day, head back to the mainland and return to your hotel to rest.
Evening (5:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
- 5:30 PM – Head over to the Puerto Princesa City Coliseum; check out if there are any interesting evening activities happening.
- 6:30 PM – For dinner, find a local eatery where they serve the famous grilled chicken known as lechon manok (PHP 200 or $4).
- 8:00 PM – Explore some local bars to experience the nightlife in the city. It’s vibrant and fun!
- 9:00 PM – Time to return to your hotel for some rest.
Day 3: Travel to El Nido
Morning (7:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- 7:00 AM – Finish your breakfast and check out from the hotel.
- 8:00 AM – You’ll take a van to El Nido, which will cost around PHP 600 or $12. This journey will take approximately 4-5 hours.
- 9:00 AM – Enjoy the stunning countryside views during your van ride; it’s picturesque!
- 11:30 AM – Finally arrive at El Nido and check into your hotel. We recommend the El Nido Garden Resort, costing about PHP 3,000 per night or $60.
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
- 12:30 PM – Head to lunch at Artcafe, a well-loved spot known for its fresh meals and vegan options (PHP 400 or $8).
- 1:30 PM – After eating, spend time exploring El Nido town and browsing its local shops and vibrant atmosphere.
- 3:00 PM – Visit Las Cabañas Beach. It’s perfect for relaxing and swimming, so take your time!
- 4:30 PM – If you’re up for a little adventure, take the cable car to the overlook for breathtaking sunset views.
Evening (5:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
- 5:30 PM – Make sure to catch the sunset at Las Cabañas Beach; it’s stunning!
- 7:00 PM – For dinner, enjoy some great food right by the beachfront at The Beach Shack (PHP 500 or $10).
- 8:30 PM – Experience the local bar scene; check out The Nesting Tabby for a lively atmosphere.
- 9:00 PM – Time to return to your resort and relax.
Day 4: El Nido Island Hopping Tour A
Morning (7:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- 7:00 AM – Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your resort.
- 8:00 AM – Join the Island Hopping Tour A, which costs PHP 1,200 or $24 and includes lunch for the day.
- 9:00 AM – The first exciting stop is Small Lagoon. Here, you can kayak and experience a different kind of beauty!
- 11:00 AM – Get ready for some snorkeling at Big Lagoon, where you’ll find delightful corals and interesting marine life waiting for you!
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
- 12:30 PM – Enjoy lunch on the boat, which is included in the tour package.
- 1:30 PM – After lunch, take some time to relax at Secret Lagoon Beach!
- 3:00 PM – Head to Shimizu Island for more snorkeling experience. It’s a wonderful spot!
- 4:30 PM – Return to El Nido, where downtime is waiting for you after a busy day.
Evening (5:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
- 5:30 PM – For dinner, visit a local restaurant like Trattoria Altrove (PHP 600 or $12) for some Italian food.
- 7:00 PM – If you’re up for it, enjoy exploring local nightlife or just relax at your resort.
- 8:30 PM – Savor local desserts like halo-halo from a nearby stall; it only costs about PHP 50 or $1.
- 9:00 PM – Wind down at your room, getting some rest for tomorrow.
Day 5: Relaxation Day in El Nido
Morning (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- 8:00 AM – Grab your breakfast at a café; we suggest Gapur’s (PHP 200 or $4).
- 9:00 AM – Rent a scooter to explore nearby beaches, especially Nacpan Beach, for the day (PHP 600 for a full day).
- 10:30 AM – Dive into the water and enjoy the swimming and relaxing time at Nacpan Beach.
- 11:30 AM – Make sure to explore the twin beaches of Nacpan and Calitang; they’re both beautiful!
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
- 12:30 PM – Have lunch at a beachside shack that serves delightful fresh seafood (PHP 400 or $8).
- 2:00 PM – After your meal, take a chance to relax and sunbathe on the beach.
- 3:30 PM – Why not engage in some beach games like volleyball or frisbee? It’s a good way to bond with friends!
- 4:30 PM – Drive back to El Nido town to unwind.
Evening (5:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
- 5:30 PM – Take some time to relax at your hotel; maybe refresh after a long day.
- 7:00 PM – Dinner at SAVA Beach Bar is a must (PHP 700 or $14); enjoy the vibrant ambiance.
- 8:30 PM – Make stops at local shops for souvenirs or snacks before calling it a night.
- 9:00 PM – Go back to your room to recharge for tomorrow’s adventures.
Day 6: Snorkeling and Discovering Hidden Beaches
Morning (7:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- 7:00 AM – Kick start your day with breakfast.
- 8:00 AM – Join a snorkeling tour exploring Hidden Beaches (PHP 1,500 or $30).
- 9:00 AM – The first stop will be Hidden Beach, where you can enjoy guided snorkeling.
- 11:00 AM – Visit another fantastic snorkel location known as Secret Beach.
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
- 12:30 PM – Enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach, which is included in the tour.
- 2:00 PM – Keep exploring other snorkeling spots; there are many treasures underwater!
- 4:00 PM – Return to El Nido after a day full of excitement.
- 5:00 PM – Take some time to relax before dinner.
Evening (5:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
- 5:30 PM – For dinner, try a local barbecue place that has delightful offerings (PHP 300 or $6).
- 7:00 PM – For a bit of adventure, consider a night kayak rental to explore the nighttime waters (PHP 300 or $6).
- 8:30 PM – Enjoy some well-deserved drinks at a local bar; take in the atmosphere!
- 9:00 PM – Time to head back to the hotel for some rest.
Day 7: Return to Puerto Princesa and Departure
Morning (7:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- 7:00 AM – Start your final day with a hearty breakfast.
- 8:00 AM – Check out from the hotel and take a van back to Puerto Princesa (PHP 600 or $12).
- 10:30 AM – Stop by Plaza Cuartel for a quick historical visit.
- 11:30 AM – Use this time for last-minute souvenir shopping!
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
- 12:30 PM – Enjoy lunch at the hotel before you head to the airport (PHP 400 or $8).
- 2:00 PM – Arrive at the airport; make sure to check in for your flight in time.
- 4:00 PM – Get ready to board your flight home.
Evening (5:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
- 5:30 PM – As you travel home, think back on all the amazing adventures you had!
Summary of Costs
- Total Accommodation: PHP 20,400 / $408 (6 nights)
- Tour Packages: PHP 7,200 / $144 (this includes all island hopping, the underground river tour, etc.)
- Meals: PHP 8,000 / $160
- Transportation: PHP 5,400 / $108 (this accounts for airport transfers and the van to El Nido)
- Activities & Rentals: PHP 3,600 / $72 (kayak rentals, scooter rental, etc.)
- Total: PHP 54,600 / $1,092
Recommendations and Tips
- Always book your tours in advance. This ensures you can grab the best prices and availability.
- Remember to carry cash. Not all places accept card payments, particularly smaller establishments.
- Stay hydrated and don’t forget to use sunscreen, especially when you’re out island hopping!
- Be respectful towards wildlife and marine life during snorkeling. It’s vital to protect the environment.
FAQ
- What is the best time to visit Palawan?
The best time to visit Palawan is generally between November and May when the weather is dry and sunny. - Are there any health precautions I should take?
Ensure you are up-to-date on vaccinations, and don’t forget to pack mosquito repellent to protect yourself. - Is it safe to travel to Palawan?
Yes, Palawan is considered quite safe for tourists. Just exercise normal smart precautions as you would anywhere. - Do I need to book accommodations in advance?
Yes, it’s highly advisable, especially during peak travel seasons to ensure you secure the best spots.
