Palawan, known as the last frontier of the Philippines, is a breathtaking tropical paradise. It has stunning beaches, beautiful landscapes, and lively marine life. This extended itinerary is crafted to let you enjoy the beauty of Palawan at a comfortable pace. Each day is segmented into morning, afternoon, and evening parts filled with activities that allow you to relax and explore the natural wonders of this stunning destination.
Day 1: Arrival in Puerto Princesa
Morning (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Itoy’s Coffee Haus. Savor local dishes along with freshly brewed coffee. Cost: PHP 200 ($4).
- 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM: Check in at Astoria Palawan. Room rates begin at PHP 6,000 ($120) per night.
- 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Go on an exploration at Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. Guided tours are offered. Entrance fee: PHP 300 ($6).
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
- 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM: For lunch, head to Kalui Restaurant and relish a seafood buffet. Cost: PHP 500 ($10).
- 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM: Spend some time visiting local shops to discover unique handicrafts and souvenirs.
- 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM: Relax and unwind at Puerto Princesa Baywalk. Take in the beautiful view and capture some photos.
Evening (5:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
- 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Visit Plaza Cuartel to delve into local history.
- 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM: Enjoy a dinner at Badjao Seafront Restaurant. Cost: PHP 600 ($12).
- 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM: Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and enjoy street performances if available.
Day 2: Island Hopping in El Nido
Morning (7:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- 7:00 AM – 8:00 AM: Grab an early breakfast at El Nido Corner Restaurant. Cost: PHP 250 ($5).
- 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Join an exciting island-hopping tour. Visit spots like Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, and Shimizu Island. The tour costs PHP 1,200 ($24) and includes lunch.
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
- 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: While in El Nido, enjoy a beach picnic at Shimizu Island.
- 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Snorkel around the lagoons. Usually, gear is included in the tour.
- 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Relish some relaxation on the beach or swim in the warm turquoise waters.
Evening (5:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
- 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM: Head back to your accommodation to freshen up.
- 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM: Dine at Ethnic Grill, known for its flavorful dishes. Cost: PHP 500 ($10).
- 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Enjoy a serene evening on the beach and watch the sunset.
Day 3: Cultural Experience in Coron
Morning (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Have breakfast at Seadive Resort. Cost: PHP 300 ($6).
- 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM: Visit the Maquinit Hot Springs to soak and relax. Entrance fee: PHP 200 ($4).
- 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Take some time to explore the Coron Municipal Market and meet local vendors.
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
- 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM: For a delightful lunch, try Trattoria Altrove. They serve delicious Italian food. Cost: PHP 700 ($14).
- 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM: Go to the Coron Shrine to enjoy stunning panoramic views of the island.
- 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Visit Lohungan Beach to swim and relax under the sun.
Evening (5:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
- 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM: Return to the hotel and take some time to rest.
- 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Our Restaurant. Cost: PHP 400 ($8).
- 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Unwind with a nightcap at Coron Town Plaza to soak in the local nightlife.
Day 4: Nature Exploration in Port Barton
Morning (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Begin your day with breakfast at The Oasis. Cost: PHP 250 ($5).
- 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM: Take a boat ride to San Vicente’s Long Beach to swim and enjoy the untouched shoreline. Boat rental: PHP 1,000 ($20).
- 11:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Make a quick stop at Elaran Island for some photo opportunities.
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
- 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Have lunch at Port Barton’s Fisherman’s Restaurant. Cost: PHP 350 ($7).
- 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Go on a hiking adventure at Mt. Capoas. Guide fee: PHP 500 ($10).
- 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Relish the beauty of nature and capture pictures at the summit.
Evening (5:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
- 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM: Head back to your accommodation and refresh yourself.
- 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM: Dine at Port Barton Beach Resort. Cost: PHP 600 ($12).
- 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Enjoy stargazing on the beach while listening to the gentle sound of the waves.
Day 5: Departure Day
Morning (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Have your last breakfast at Astoria Palawan. Cost: PHP 300 ($6).
- 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Take some time for last-minute souvenir shopping in Puerto Princesa.
- 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Check out and prepare to head to the airport.
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
- 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Before your flight, have lunch at Airport Restaurant. Cost: PHP 300 ($6).
- 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Relax at the airport and think back on the amazing adventures you had in Palawan.
- 4:00 PM: Depart from Puerto Princesa.
Evening (5:00 PM – onward)
- 5:00 PM – onward: Arrive at your home or destination and share all your unforgettable experiences with your loved ones.
Summary of Costs
Total Estimated Costs for the Itinerary:
- Accommodation (5 nights @ PHP 6,000): PHP 30,000 ($600)
- Meals (approx. PHP 1,000 per day): PHP 5,000 ($100)
- Island Hopping Tours: PHP 1,200 ($24)
- Local Attractions / Activities: PHP 1,400 ($28)
- Transportation (Airport transfers, boat rides): PHP 5,000 ($100)
Total Estimate: PHP 47,600 ($952)
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Palawan?
The ideal time to visit Palawan is during the dry season, usually from November to May when weather conditions are more favorable for exploration.
Is there a lot of traveling between destinations?
Yes, you will travel between places like Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron via boats or vans, but don’t worry—the views during the rides are simply stunning!
Are activities suitable for families?
Absolutely! The activities on this itinerary are family-friendly. Just remember to check age restrictions for certain tours.
Do you need to book activities in advance?
While you can book some activities on the same day, it’s smarter to reserve island hopping tours and accommodations ahead of time to ensure you have a spot.
Is it easy to get around in Palawan?
Yes! Local transportation options like tricycles, vans, and boats make it easy to get around the area.
