Palawan in the Philippines is truly special. With its clear turquoise waters, hidden lagoons, and amazing wildlife, it’s a place that will stay with you long after you leave. This article will show you why Palawan is a destination you absolutely must experience.
Why is Palawan so special?
Palawan isn’t just another pretty island; it’s an experience. Imagine swimming in crystal-clear water, surrounded by huge limestone cliffs covered in green plants. That’s Palawan. It’s a place where you can relax on beautiful beaches, explore hidden caves, and see animals you might never see anywhere else. The island consistently ranks high in lists of the world’s best islands. Travel + Leisure even named Palawan the “World’s Best Island” more than once, which tells you how special it is!
Getting to Palawan: Your Journey Begins
The most common way to get to Palawan is by plane. You can fly from Manila or other major cities in the Philippines directly to Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS). Several airlines, like Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia, offer regular flights. From the airport, you can take a van or bus to other parts of Palawan, like El Nido or Coron. The ride can be long, but the scenery is worth it! Depending on where you are coming from, airfare can vary considerably; you can check websites like Skyscanner for the best deals.
Exploring Puerto Princesa: More Than Just an Airport Stop
Puerto Princesa is the capital city of Palawan and a great place to start your adventure. It’s known for its clean streets and friendly people. Don’t just rush through; there’s plenty to see and do here.
The Underground River: A Must-See Wonder
The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, also known as the Underground River, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New7Wonders of Nature. Imagine taking a boat ride through a dark cave, surrounded by amazing rock formations and thousands of bats! It’s a truly unforgettable experience. You’ll need to book a tour in advance, and it’s well worth it. The park itself protects a significant biodiversity; more details can be found on the UNESCO World Heritage Centre website.
Honda Bay: Island Hopping Fun
Honda Bay is a beautiful bay near Puerto Princesa with many small islands to explore. You can take a boat trip and visit islands like Cowrie Island, Luli Island, and Starfish Island. Each island has its own charm, with white sand beaches, clear water, and great snorkeling spots. It’s a perfect way to spend a day relaxing and enjoying the sun.
Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm: A Different Kind of Experience
Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm is a unique attraction. It’s a minimum-security prison where the inmates are allowed to roam relatively freely. You can walk around the farm, interact with the inmates (who are often selling handicrafts), and learn about their lives. It’s a humbling and eye-opening experience.
El Nido: Paradise Found
El Nido is a small town in northern Palawan famous for its stunning lagoons, towering limestone cliffs, and hidden beaches. Getting there from Puerto Princesa involves a van ride of about 5-6 hours, but everyone tells you it is worth it. Once you arrive, you’ll understand why.
Island Hopping Tours: The Heart of El Nido
The main attraction in El Nido is island hopping. There are four main tours, creatively named Tour A, Tour B, Tour C, and Tour D, each offering a different set of islands and lagoons to explore.
- Tour A typically includes Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and 7 Commando Beach. These lagoons are spectacular, perfect for swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling.
- Tour B focuses on the caves and islands around El Nido, including Snake Island, Pinagbuyutan Island, Entalula Beach, Cudugnon Cave, and Reef where you may see a variety of sea creatures.
- Tour C is often considered the most beautiful, featuring Helicopter Island, Secret Beach, Hidden Beach, Matinloc Shrine, and Star Beach. It’s a longer tour with more remote and stunning locations.
- Tour D offers a more relaxed experience, visiting Cadlao Lagoon, Paradise Beach, Pasandigan Beach, Natnat Beach, and Bukal Island. It’s a good choice if you want to avoid the crowds.
Each tour offers a different experience, so choose the one that best suits your interests. You can book them at local tour operators, and they usually include lunch.
Nacpan Beach: Long Stretches of Sand
Nacpan Beach is a long, beautiful beach about an hour’s drive from El Nido town. It’s a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet. You can swim, sunbathe, or simply relax and watch the waves. There are also a few restaurants and bars where you can grab a bite to eat and enjoy a drink.
Las Cabanas Beach (Maremegmeg Beach): Sunset Views
Also known as Maremegmeg Beach, Las Cabanas is a short tricycle ride from El Nido town. It’s famous for its stunning sunset views. You can relax on the beach, swim in the clear water, or try ziplining across the bay. There are also plenty of bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a delicious meal or a refreshing cocktail while watching the sunset.
Coron: Shipwrecks and Stunning Lakes
Coron is another island in Palawan, about a four-hour ferry ride from El Nido. It’s famous for its World War II shipwrecks, stunning lakes, and beautiful beaches. It’s a diving and snorkeling heaven.
Kayangan Lake: Crystal Clear Water
Kayangan Lake is one of the most photographed spots in Coron. It’s a crystal-clear lake surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. You have to climb some steps to reach the lake, but the view from the top is worth it! Swimming in the cool, clear water is an unforgettable experience. The waters are so clear because of a unique combination of fresh and salt water.
Barracuda Lake: A Thermocline Adventure
Barracuda Lake is another beautiful lake in Coron, known for its unique thermoclines. These are layers of water with different temperatures, creating a strange and interesting sensation when you swim. The lake is also surrounded by stunning limestone cliffs.
Twin Lagoons: Connect by Swimming
Twin Lagoons are two lagoons connected by a small opening underwater. During low tide, you can swim through the opening to get to the other lagoon. During high tide, you have to swim over the rocks. Both lagoons are stunning, with clear water and beautiful scenery.
World War II Shipwrecks: A Scuba Diver’s Paradise
Coron is famous for its World War II shipwrecks. In 1944, a fleet of Japanese ships was sunk by American air raids in Coron Bay. Today, these shipwrecks are popular dive sites, home to a variety of marine life. Even if you’re not a diver, you can snorkel around some of the wrecks and get a glimpse of history.
Maquinit Hot Spring: Relax and Unwind
Maquinit Hot Spring is a natural hot spring located near Coron town. It’s a great place to relax and unwind after a day of exploring. The water is heated by geothermal activity and is said to have therapeutic properties. It’s best to visit in the evening when the air is cooler.
Palawan’s Amazing Wildlife
Palawan isn’t just about beautiful scenery; it’s also home to a diverse range of wildlife. From colorful birds to playful monkeys, there’s plenty to see.
The Palawan Bearcat (Binturong):
The Palawan Bearcat, also known as the Binturong, is a unique mammal found in Palawan. It looks like a cross between a bear and a cat. They are nocturnal and arboreal. It’s a shy creature, so you’re lucky if you spot one!
The Philippine Pangolin: An Endangered Species
The Philippine Pangolin is a critically endangered species found in Palawan. It’s a scaly anteater that plays an important role in the ecosystem. Unfortunately, they are heavily poached for their scales and meat. Organizations like the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) are working to protect them and their habitat.
Various Bird Species: A Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Palawan is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 200 species of birds found on the island. You can spot colorful birds like the Palawan Peacock-pheasant, the Blue Paradise-flycatcher, and the Palawan Hornbill. Some locations are specifically designated for bird watching.
Palawan’s Delicious Food
No trip to Palawan is complete without trying the local food. Palawan cuisine is a delicious mix of Filipino, Malay, and Chinese flavors.
Seafood Galore: Fresh from the Sea
Being an island, Palawan offers a wide variety of fresh seafood. You can enjoy grilled fish, prawns, crabs, and squid. Some popular dishes include kinilaw (Filipino ceviche), grilled tuna belly, and sinigang (a sour and savory soup).
Tamilok: A Local Delicacy (for the Brave)
Tamilok is a woodworm that lives in mangrove trees. It’s considered a delicacy in Palawan. It’s usually eaten raw with vinegar and spices. It might sound strange, but many locals and adventurous tourists enjoy it!
Croc Sisig: A Unique Experience
Crocodile sisig is a local variation of the popular Filipino dish – sisig. Crocodile meat is used rather than the traditional pork, served on a hot plate. It will be a unique culinary memory!
Where to Stay in Palawan
Palawan offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts. Where you stay will depend on your budget and what you’re looking for in a vacation.
Puerto Princesa: A Variety of Options
Puerto Princesa has a wide range of hotels, guesthouses, and hostels. You can find something to suit every budget. Many accommodations are located near the city center, making it easy to explore the local attractions.
El Nido: Beachfront Bliss or Town Convenience
El Nido offers everything from rustic beachfront bungalows to comfortable hotels in town. If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, you can find some high-end resorts on nearby islands. Be prepared to pay a little more for accommodation in El Nido, especially during peak season.
Coron: Island Resorts and Town Stays
In Coron, you can choose between staying in the main town or on one of the nearby islands. Island resorts offer a more secluded and luxurious experience, while staying in town gives you easy access to restaurants and shops. You’ll also find a range of accommodations from budget-friendly hostels to comfortable hotels.
Tips for Traveling in Palawan
Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your trip to Palawan:
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Palawan is during the dry season, which runs from November to May. The weather is sunny and dry, perfect for exploring the islands and beaches.
- Currency: The currency in the Philippines is the Philippine Peso (PHP). Credit cards are accepted in some establishments, but it’s always a good idea to have cash on hand, especially when visiting smaller islands and towns.
- Language: The official languages are Filipino and English. Most people in Palawan speak English, so you shouldn’t have any trouble communicating.
- Transportation: The main modes of transportation in Palawan are vans, buses, tricycles, and boats. You can rent a motorbike in some areas, but be careful if you’re not an experienced driver.
- Respect the Environment: Palawan is a beautiful and fragile ecosystem. Please be responsible and avoid littering, damaging coral reefs, or disturbing wildlife.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best time to visit Palawan?
The best time to visit Palawan is during the dry season, which is from November to May. During this time, the weather is generally sunny with clear skies, making it perfect for island hopping and enjoying the beaches.
How can I get around Palawan?
Transportation options in Palawan include vans, buses, tricycles, and boats. Vans and buses are commonly used for traveling between major towns like Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron. Tricycles are a convenient way to get around within towns, while boats are essential for island hopping.
Is Palawan safe for tourists?
Palawan is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it’s essential to take precautions to protect yourself from petty theft. Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Also, follow local advice and heed any warnings from authorities.
What should I pack for my trip to Palawan?
When packing for Palawan, consider light and breathable clothing suitable for warm weather. Essentials include swimwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and sunglasses. Comfortable walking shoes or sandals are also a must. If you plan to go snorkeling or diving, you might want to bring your own gear, although it’s often available for rent.
Do I need a visa to visit Palawan?
Visa requirements for the Philippines depend on your nationality. Many nationalities, including citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, and the European Union, can enter the Philippines without a visa for a certain period (usually up to 30 days) for tourism purposes. It’s always recommended to check the latest visa regulations from the Philippine embassy or consulate in your country before your trip.
References
- Travel + Leisure, “World’s Best Islands”
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre, “Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park”
- World Wildlife Fund (WWF)
Ready to experience the magic of Palawan? Imagine yourself swimming in those turquoise waters, exploring hidden lagoons, and relaxing on pristine beaches. Don’t just dream about it – plan your trip today! Book your flights, find your perfect accommodation, and get ready for an adventure that will stay with you forever. Palawan is waiting to capture your heart and soul.
