Planning a quick getaway to the beautiful islands of Palawan? Awesome! To help you make the most of your short trip, here are three awesome itineraries tailored for different interests and budgets. Each option provides a taste of what Palawan has to offer, ensuring you create some amazing memories even on a tight schedule.
Puerto Princesa City Adventure (Budget-Friendly)
This option is perfect for those keeping an eye on their budget while still wanting to explore the heart of Palawan. It focuses on the highlights of Puerto Princesa, offering a mix of wildlife encounters, historical insights, and local flavors.
| Day | Time | Activity | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Morning | Arrive at Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS). Check in to a budget-friendly guesthouse or a low-cost hotel in the city proper. This allows you to quickly settle in and start exploring. Look for accommodations around Rizal Avenue or near the City Baywalk for convenient access to attractions. | ₱ 500 – ₱ 1500 (accommodation) |
| Afternoon | Visit the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center (Crocodile Farm). This is a great opportunity to see various crocodile species and learn about the conservation efforts in place to protect Palawan’s unique wildlife. The center also houses other rescued animals, making it an educational and enjoyable experience for all ages. | ₱ 300 (entrance fee) | |
| Late Afternoon | Explore Plaza Cuartel, a historically significant site where you can learn about Palawan’s role in World War II. Stroll along Rizal Avenue, the city’s main thoroughfare, to soak in the local atmosphere. Have dinner at a local eatery like Kinabuch’s Grill & Bar, famous for its delicious grilled dishes and lively ambiance. They have outdoor seating, so you can enjoy the Palawan evening breeze. | ₱ 500 (dinner) | |
| Day 2 | Morning | Join an Underground River Tour. Booking this tour in advance with a local tour operator is essential, as it includes the necessary transportation, permits, and guides. The Underground River is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature! It’s a must-see when in Palawan. The tour often includes a boat ride through the cave, where you can marvel at the stunning rock formations. | ₱ 1500 – ₱ 2000 (tour package) |
| Afternoon | Enjoy a seafood lunch at Sabang Beach, which is typically part of the Underground River tour package. Freshly grilled seafood is a definite highlight! After lunch, you might have some free time to relax on the beach or take a short walk around Sabang. | Included in tour package | |
| Late Afternoon | Return to Puerto Princesa. Shop for souvenirs at the City Baywalk, where you can also grab a light snack or an early dinner. The Baywalk is a great place to watch the sunset and enjoy the cool sea breeze. Look for local crafts, pearls, and other Palawan-themed trinkets. | ₱ 300 (souvenirs/snack) | |
| Evening | Head back to Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS) for your departure. Allow ample time for check-in and security procedures. | ₱ 100 – ₱ 200 (airport transfer) |
Diving Deeper into Puerto Princesa
Let’s break down some of the highlights and add a few more tips for your Puerto Princesa adventure:
Choosing Your Accommodation: To really save money, look at guesthouses further from Rizal Avenue, but make sure they’re still accessible by tricycle.
The Crocodile Farm: Arrive early in the afternoon, before it gets too hot. Don’t miss the feeding time – it’s quite a spectacle! Aside from crocodiles, there are also other endemic Palawan species on display.
Kinabuch’s Grill & Bar: This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. Be prepared for a lively atmosphere, especially on weekends. Try their crocodile sisig for a local twist (if you’re feeling adventurous!).
Underground River Tour Tips: Book at least a week in advance, especially during peak season. Bring a small flashlight for a better view inside the cave. While photography is allowed, avoid using flash as it can disturb the ecosystem.
Souvenir Shopping: Haggling is generally accepted at the City Baywalk. Don’t be afraid to gently negotiate for a better price. Look for handicrafts made by local artisans to support the community.
El Nido Island Hopping Getaway (More Active)
El Nido is famous for its breathtaking lagoons, stunning beaches, and towering limestone cliffs. This itinerary is for those who want to experience El Nido’s signature island-hopping adventures.
| Day | Time | Activity | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Morning | Arrive at El Nido Airport (ENI). Take a tricycle or a van to reach El Nido town proper. Check into your affordable hotel or hostel. El Nido Airport is quite small, so transportation options are readily available outside the terminal. Hostels and budget hotels are more common, so you’ll have plenty of choices. | ₱ 700 – ₱ 2000 (accommodation), ₱ 300 (transport) |
| Afternoon | Have lunch at a local eatery in El Nido town. Then, book an island hopping tour for the next day. Take some time to explore El Nido town. There are many restaurants in El Nido town that offer affordable and delicious meals. After lunch, wander around town, browse the souvenir shops, and get a feel for the local vibe. Book your island hopping tour at one of the many tour operators in town. | ₱ 500 (lunch) | |
| Evening | Relax at Las Cabanas Beach, where you can enjoy a stunning sunset. Have dinner at a beachfront restaurant and soak in the fresh sea breeze. Las Cabanas Beach is known for its long stretch of sand and clear waters. It’s a perfect spot to unwind and watch the sunset. There are several restaurants along the beach that offer a variety of cuisines, from Filipino to international. | ₱ 600 (dinner) | |
| Day 2 | Morning | Join Island Hopping Tour A (or any other available tour). This popular tour usually includes Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and 7 Commando Beach. These tours fill up quickly, so book in advance! Island Hopping Tour A is the most popular because it covers the most iconic spots in El Nido. Each lagoon offers unique features: hidden entrances, clear waters, and stunning limestone formations. | ₱ 1400 – ₱ 1800 (tour package) |
| Afternoon | Lunch is served on one of the islands as part of the tour package. Enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the beautiful lagoons. Lunch is typically a Filipino-style buffet with grilled seafood, meats, and vegetables, so you’re sure to have an energy boost. The lagoons are teeming with marine life, so don’t miss the chance to snorkel and see colorful fish and coral. | Included in tour package | |
| Late Afternoon | Return to El Nido town. Freshen up after the day’s adventure. Buy souvenirs, then have dinner in town. You’ll probably be tired after the whole day. Take a refreshing shower and relax a bit before heading out for souvenir shopping and dinner. | ₱ 400 (souvenirs/dinner) | |
| Evening | Make your way back to El Nido Airport for your onward journey. Allow ample time for check-in and security procedures. | ₱ 300 (airport transfer) |
El Nido Insider Tips
Here’s how to make your El Nido experience truly unforgettable:
Getting Around: Tricycles are the primary mode of transportation in El Nido town. Agree on the fare before you hop on.
Las Cabanas Beach Activities: Aside from sunset viewing, you can also try zip-lining from Las Cabanas to Depeldet Island. It’s an exhilarating experience!
Choosing the Right Island Hopping Tour: While Tour A is the most popular, consider other tours (B, C, or D) if you want to explore less crowded spots. Each tour offers a unique itinerary and attractions.
Snorkeling Gear: While most tours provide snorkeling gear, consider bringing your own for a better fit and hygiene.
Water Shoes: Some beaches and lagoons have rocky bottoms, so water shoes will protect your feet.
Hidden Beaches: Rent a kayak and explore hidden beaches and coves accessible only by water.
Coron’s Underwater Paradise (Diving Focused)
For those who love diving or snorkeling, Coron is a dream destination. This itinerary focuses on exploring the stunning underwater world of Coron, famous for its World War II shipwrecks and beautiful lakes.
| Day | Time | Activity | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Morning | Arrive at Francisco B. Reyes Airport in Coron (USU). Check into accommodation located close to Coron town centre. It gives you easy access to restaurants, shops, and tour operators. | ₱ 800 – ₱ 2500 (accommodation) |
| Afternoon | Hike up to Mt. Tapyas for breathtaking panoramic views of Coron and its surrounding islands. Then spend some time wandering around Coron town. Treat yourself to dinner at Altrov Trattoria for an Italian feast. Mt. Tapyas has hundreds of steps, but the view from the top is well worth the effort. It’s best to go there in the late afternoon to catch the sunset. Altrov Trattoria is known for its delicious pizza and pasta dishes. | ₱ 800 (dinner) | |
| Evening | Take some time to relax and prepare for an exciting next day ahead. | ||
| Day 2 | Morning | Join a diving tour or snorkeling trip to explore Kayangan Lake, Barracuda Lake, and Twin Lagoon. These are Coron’s most famous diving and snorkeling spots, offering crystal-clear waters and unique underwater landscapes. | ₱ 2500 – ₱ 3500 (diving tour including gear rental) or ₱ 1500 – ₱ 2000 (snorkeling tour package) |
| Afternoon | Enjoy lunch provided by the tour operator. After that, continue swimming and exploring the beautiful diving spots. | Included in tour package | |
| Late Afternoon | Return to Coron town. Have dinner at a local restaurant to wrap up your adventure. | ₱ 500 (dinner) | |
| Evening | Travel back to Francisco B. Reyes Airport for your onward journey. | ₱ 300 (airport transfer) |
Coron Pro Tips
Make the most of your Coron diving experience with these insights:
Mt. Tapyas at Sunset: Bring water and wear comfortable shoes for the hike up Mt. Tapyas. The view is incredible, so take your time to enjoy it.
Diving Certifications: If you’re not a certified diver, consider getting a certification before your trip to Coron. This will allow you to explore more of the shipwrecks.
Wreck Diving: Some of the most popular wreck diving sites include the Irako Maru, Akitsushima, and Olympia Maru.
Kayangan Lake vs. Barracuda Lake: Kayangan Lake is known for its stunning surface views, while Barracuda Lake offers unique thermoclines (layers of water with different temperatures) for divers.
Twin Lagoon Secret Passage: During high tide, it’s possible to swim through a small opening to access the inner lagoon of Twin Lagoon.
Underwater Photography: Bring an underwater camera to capture the amazing marine life and shipwrecks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions to help you plan your trip:
Q: What is the best time to visit Palawan?
A: The best time to visit Palawan is during the dry season, which runs from November to May. Expect less rainfall and calmer seas, making it ideal for island hopping and diving. However, keep in mind that the peak season (December-February) can be more crowded and expensive.
Q: How do I get around Palawan?
A: Within each town (Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron), tricycles are the most common mode of transport. They’re affordable and readily available. For traveling between towns, vans and buses are available, but booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
Q: Are tours better booked in advance?
A: Yes, booking your tours in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season. Booking ahead ensures you get a spot on the tours you want and can sometimes snag better prices. You can book through your hotel, local tour operators, or online platforms.
Q: What should I bring on Palawan island hopping tours?
A: Pack light but smart! Essentials include sunscreen (reef-safe is best!), swimwear, a hat, sunglasses, a beach towel, a dry bag to protect your valuables from water, and enough cash, as some islands may not have ATMs or accept credit cards. A reusable water bottle is also a good idea to stay hydrated.
Q: Is it safe to travel alone in Palawan?
A: Generally, Palawan is considered a safe place to travel, even for solo travelers. The locals are friendly and helpful. However, it’s always wise to take normal travel safety precautions: be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone in dark or isolated areas at night, and keep your valuables secure.
Q: Are there ATMs available?
A: Yes, you can find ATMs in major towns like Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron. However, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash, especially if you plan to visit smaller islands or dine at local eateries, as they might not accept card payments. Keep small denominations handy for tricycle fares and tips.
These are just a few examples of the many amazing experiences Palawan has to offer!
Ready to pack your bags and escape to Palawan? Don’t wait any longer! Book your flights, accommodations, and tours today for an unforgettable adventure in this island paradise. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, Palawan has something for everyone. Start planning your dream getaway now and create memories that will last a lifetime!
