Day 1: Arrival in Puerto Princesa
Morning (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- 8:00 AM: Touch down at Puerto Princesa International Airport. Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Ugong Rock Café to fuel up for your adventures ahead (Approx. ₱150/$3.00).
- 9:00 AM: Head to your hotel for check-in and freshen up. Consider places like Princesa Garden Island Resort or Hue Hotel for a cozy stay.
- 10:30 AM: Visit the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center. It’s a great place to see animals and support wildlife protection (Entrance fee: ₱100/$2.00).
- 11:30 AM: Stop by the local market and treat yourself to some tasty street food. Don’t forget to try kwek-kwek, a delicious fried quail egg (Approx. ₱50/$1.00).
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
- 12:30 PM: For lunch, head over to Ramen Kame where you can enjoy flavorful Japanese dishes (Approx. ₱300/$6.00).
- 2:00 PM: Set off for the stunning Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site features an underground river and a breathtaking landscape. Join a guided tour (Approx. ₱1,500/$30.00 including transportation).
- 4:30 PM: Return to the hotel. Take some time to unwind and maybe splash around in the pool to refresh after your active day.
- 5:00 PM: Head to Pandang Gaod beach for a relaxing view of the sunset without any entrance fee. It’s the perfect way to wind down.
Evening (6:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
- 6:00 PM: Dinner time! Enjoy a meal at Nooky’s, where you can savor some local dishes (Approx. ₱400/$8.00).
- 8:00 PM: Take a leisurely stroll down Baywalk. Experience the lively atmosphere and sample delicious local treats from the street vendors.
- 9:30 PM: Make your way back to your hotel for a good night’s rest.
Day 1 Summary Costs
Total: ₱2,650/$53.00
Day 2: Island Hopping in El Nido
Morning (6:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- 6:00 AM: Grab an early breakfast at your hotel, then hop on a van to El Nido (Approx. ₱600/$12.00).
- 8:30 AM: Arrive in El Nido and check into your hotel. Consider staying at El Nido Resorts for a luxurious experience.
- 9:30 AM: It’s time for adventure! Join an island-hopping tour, Tour A is a popular choice (Approx. ₱1,200/$24.00).
- 10:00 AM: Go snorkeling at Shimizu Island, where colorful fish and vibrant corals await!
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
- 12:00 PM: Lunchtime! Enjoy a delicious meal on the beach, which is included in your tour package.
- 1:30 PM: Dive into the beautiful waters of Big Lagoon. Don’t forget to swim around and take lots of photos!
- 3:00 PM: Next, head to Secret Lagoon and experience the stunning views and hidden beauty it offers.
- 4:30 PM: Return to El Nido town to unwind after a exciting day.
Evening (6:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
- 6:00 PM: Dinner at Mezzanine El Nido, try their Filipino favorites for a satisfying meal (Approx. ₱600/$12.00).
- 8:00 PM: Explore the vibrant nightlife around or take a peaceful beach walk to enjoy the sound of the waves.
- 9:30 PM: Wind down back at your hotel for a relaxing evening.
Day 2 Summary Costs
Total: ₱2,700/$54.00
Day 3: Exploring El Nido
Morning (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- 8:00 AM: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel.
- 9:00 AM: Rent a kayak from El Nido Kayak Tours to explore the beauty of the lagoons (Approx. ₱1,000/$20.00).
- 10:30 AM: Paddle your way to Small Lagoon for an exciting kayaking and snorkeling adventure.
- 11:30 AM: Refuel with a quick snack from a beachfront cafe (Approx. ₱150/$3.00).
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
- 12:30 PM: Savor some Italian cuisine at Il Posto for lunch (Approx. ₱500/$10.00).
- 2:00 PM: Explore the picturesque Entalula Island. Don’t forget to bring a packed lunch or buy from friendly locals.
- 4:00 PM: Take a moment to unwind on the beach or go for a refreshing swim.
- 5:00 PM: Return to the hotel to refresh after your adventurous day.
Evening (6:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
- 6:00 PM: Dinner at Kaylaway’s Food Haven where you can enjoy local flavors (Approx. ₱400/$8.00).
- 8:00 PM: Relax at a local bar or catch a movie at a small cinema with local films.
- 10:00 PM: Head back to your accommodation for a good night’s sleep.
Day 3 Summary Costs
Total: ₱2,700/$54.00
Day 4: Adventure at Coron
Morning (7:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- 7:00 AM: Depart from El Nido for Coron via boat for a fantastic experience at sea (Approx. ₱3,000/$60.00).
- 10:00 AM: Arrive at Coron and check into your hotel. Consider staying at Coron Soleil Garden Resort for a lovely stay.
- 10:30 AM: Enjoy an early brunch at SeaDive Resort (Approx. ₱300/$6.00).
- 11:30 AM: Visit Kayangan Lake for swimming and stunning views (Entrance fee: ₱200/$4.00).
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
- 1:00 PM: Join a guided tour around Coron’s Wreck Diving Sites, known for fascinating underwater vistas (Approx. ₱1,500/$30.00).
- 3:30 PM: Go snorkeling at Malwawey Reef to see beautiful marine life.
- 4:30 PM: Take an hour to relax on Culion Island before heading back.
Evening (6:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
- 6:00 PM: Dinner at Histogram Restaurant (Approx. ₱500/$10.00), where you can taste local dishes.
- 8:00 PM: Explore a night market for local souvenirs and delicious snacks.
- 9:30 PM: Finally, return to your hotel for a comfortable rest.
Day 4 Summary Costs
Total: ₱6,200/$124.00
Day 5: Hiking and Relaxation
Morning (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- 8:00 AM: Start your morning with breakfast at your hotel.
- 9:00 AM: Hike to Buruyog Hill for some breathtaking views of the area (Free).
- 10:00 AM: Enjoy swimming at Banana Island—a fantastic spot to relax. Snack options are available at local shops!
- 11:30 AM: Unwind on the quiet beach, soaking in the sun.
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
- 12:30 PM: Find a local eatery for lunch (Approx. ₱250/$5.00). Delight in local Filipino cuisine!
- 1:30 PM: Treat yourself to the relaxing Maquinit Hot Springs (Entrance fee: ₱200/$4.00)—the perfect way to recharge!
- 3:00 PM: Spend time soaking in the warm waters of the springs; it’s a wonderful experience.
- 4:00 PM: Finish your day at the hot springs before heading back to the hotel.
Evening (6:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
- 6:00 PM: Dinner at Divel’s Bar and Grill for an amazing meal (Approx. ₱600/$12.00). Grab some fresh seafood specialties!
- 8:00 PM: Consider catching a local cultural show or music performance at the beach for some entertainment.
- 10:00 PM: Return to your accommodation to rest well for tomorrow’s adventures.
Day 5 Summary Costs
Total: ₱2,200/$44.00
Day 6: Cultural Immersion
Morning (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- 8:00 AM: Enjoy breakfast at Coron Bistro (Approx. ₱300/$6.00).
- 9:00 AM: Discover the Coron Museum, which offers insights into the local history (Entrance fee: ₱100/$2.00).
- 10:30 AM: Trek up Mount Tapyas for a fantastic view of Coron (Free)—it’s a must-see!
- 11:30 AM: Pick up a snack at a local stall (Approx. ₱150/$3.00) to keep your energy up!
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
- 12:30 PM: Refuel with lunch at Ramen & More, which serves delightful dishes (Approx. ₱400/$8.00).
- 2:00 PM: Participate in a local artisan workshop. This will probably cost around (Approx. ₱500/$10.00)—it’s a fun way to learn about local crafts!
- 4:00 PM: Take some free time to explore nearby shops and look for unique souvenirs.
- 5:00 PM: Head back to the hotel for some well-deserved relaxation.
Evening (6:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
- 6:00 PM: Dinner at Frito’s Grill will be a treat for seafood lovers (Approx. ₱500/$10.00).
- 8:00 PM: Enjoy a drink at a nearby bar and experience the local cocktails (Approx. ₱200/$4.00).
- 9:00 PM: Stroll around town and soak in the vibrant sights and sounds of the night market.
- 10:00 PM: Finally, return to your hotel for a restful night.
Day 6 Summary Costs
Total: ₱2,650/$53.00
Day 7: Return to Puerto Princesa
Morning (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- 8:00 AM: Start your last day with breakfast at your hotel.
- 9:00 AM: Checkout from your hotel and board a boat back to Puerto Princesa (Approx. ₱3,000/$60.00).
- 11:00 AM: Arrive in Puerto Princesa and make a stop at the Iwahig Penal Colony to learn about this unique community (Free).
- 11:30 AM: Enjoy a local lunch at Balay Ni Mayang (Approx. ₱400/$8.00).
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
- 12:30 PM: Make your way to Plaza Cuartel and soak in its historical significance (Free).
- 2:00 PM: Shop for souvenirs at Good Times—set aside around ₱1,000/$20.00 for some unique finds!
- 4:00 PM: Chill at a local sari-sari store and enjoy some snacks while reflecting on your trip.
- 5:00 PM: Return to your hotel one last time.
Evening (6:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
- 6:00 PM: Conclude your trip with a farewell dinner at Ka Inato (Approx. ₱500/$10.00)—a fantastic place to reminisce about your adventures!
- 8:00 PM: After dinner, head straight to the airport for your evening flight home.
Day 7 Summary Costs
Total: ₱6,050/$121.00
Overall Trip Summary
Total Estimated Trip Cost: ₱27,200/$544.00
Recommendations
Be sure to pack sunblock, swimwear, a reliable camera to capture memories, and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated during your outdoor adventures!
Tips
Try to book tours in advance, especially during busy tourist seasons. It’s also nice to respect local customs and be mindful of the environment. Don’t hesitate to negotiate prices when shopping in markets!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Palawan?
The best time to visit is from November to May when the weather is dry and sunny. The chances of rainfall are minimal, making it perfect for outdoor activities and island hopping.
Are there ATMs available in Palawan?
Yes, there are ATMs in some areas. However, it’s always a smart idea to have some cash on hand, as not every local shop or market will accept credit cards.
What local delicacies should I try?
You must taste Lechon (crispy roasted pig), Chicken Inasal (grilled chicken marinated in local spices), and a variety of fresh seafood dishes that this ocean-rich region offers.
Is it safe to swim in the waters?
Generally, yes! Palawan waters are safe for swimming, but it’s always good to listen to local advice regarding currents and any warning signs about jellyfish that might be present.
