Palawan, an exquisite island within the Philippines, is far more than the well-known spots like El Nido and Coron. There are various different great locations to discover like Balabac and Port Baron. These are quiet cities the place you may benefit from the easy pleasures of life, away from the crowds.
However Palawan isn’t just about peace and quiet. It’s a spot for journey too. Think about diving round previous shipwrecks or testing superb rock formations! At the same time as an increasing number of folks uncover Palawan, it retains its calm appeal.
Positive, huge cities like Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron have many issues to see. However Palawan’s magic lies past these locations. There are such a lot of hidden treasures ready to be discovered! From beautiful seashores and secret lagoons to vigorous underwater life, Palawan has one thing for everybody.
So, in the event you’re prepared for an journey like no different, come to Palawan. Right here, day by day brings a brand new shock, and there’s all the time one thing superb ready simply across the nook.
Discover Puerto Princesa Subterranean River Nationwide Park
What to do: Picture/Journey
How A lot: Php 2,500/pax
The place : Cabayugan, Puerto Princesa, Palawan
Embark on an unforgettable journey on the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River Nationwide Park, a UNESCO World Heritage web site. A marvel of nature, this park is dwelling to one of many world’s longest navigable underground rivers. It’s a journey right into a world of extraordinary magnificence as you’re taking a ship tour alongside this 8.2-kilometer river that winds its approach by means of a charming cave system. Marvel on the breathtaking stalactite and stalagmite formations that adorn the cave ceilings and partitions, formed by the river’s stream over hundreds of thousands of years. Every flip of the river reveals an awe-inspiring view, stuffed with distinct rock formations, fluttering bats, and the quiet whisper of working water. This subterranean river can be a big habitat for biodiversity conservation, teeming with distinctive and endangered species. Exploring this world-renowned pure marvel is certainly a once-in-a-lifetime expertise that ought to high any Palawan tour.
Go to the Tubbataha Reefs Pure Park
What to do: Picture/Journey
The place : Sulu Sea / 50km southeast of Puerto Princesa Metropolis
Immerse your self within the underwater wonderland of Tubbataha Reefs Pure Park, a UNESCO World Heritage web site within the Coral Triangle. Unfold over 97,030 hectares, this marine sanctuary hosts a staggering array of biodiversity. Expertise vibrant coral gardens, deep drop-offs, and a mess of marine species. The park is dwelling to over 600 fish species, 360 coral species, 11 shark species, and quite a few dolphins and whales, in addition to endangered inexperienced sea and hawksbill turtles. Chook watchers can even be captivated by the nesting and breeding seabirds, just like the red-footed booby and brown noddy. Accessible by liveaboard dive boats from Puerto Princesa from March to June, it’s a paradise for scuba diving, snorkeling, and chicken watching. The Tubbataha Reefs Pure Park just isn’t solely a vacation spot for nature lovers, but additionally a logo of efficient marine biodiversity conservation efforts.
Island hopping in El Nido
What to do: Picture/Journey/Snorkeling/Kayaking
How A lot: Php 1,200 – Php 1,400/pax
The place : Bacuit Bay in El Nido, Palawan
Expertise the attract of El Nido, a tropical paradise in Palawan, by means of its well-known island hopping excursions, labeled Tour A, B, C, and D, every providing distinctive points of interest.
Tour A takes you to the beautiful lagoons and pristine seashores, together with the Secret Lagoon, Massive Lagoon, and Small Lagoon. Float in turquoise waters surrounded by towering limestone cliffs.Tour B is a journey to vibrant, untouched seashores and caves, comparable to Snake Island, Pinagbuyutan Island, and the Cathedral Cave, offering various experiences from snorkeling to exploring intriguing rock formations.Tour C is a dive into El Nido’s wealthy marine life and historical past. Go to the Secret Seaside, generally known as the inspiration behind Alex Garland’s novel ‘The Seaside’, and Helicopter Island, named for its distinctive form, for an epic snorkeling journey.Lastly, Tour D takes you to the tranquil Cadlao Island, that includes lovely seashores like Paradise Seaside and Bukal Seaside, plus the picturesque Cadlao Lagoon.Every tour ensures a day of breathtaking surroundings and unforgettable aquatic experiences.
A Safari Expertise at Calauit Park
What to do: Picture/Journey/Feed Animals
How A lot: Php 2,200
The place : Calauit Nationwide Park, Busuanga, Palawan
Enterprise off the crushed path to Calauit Safari Park, an uncommon but fascinating function of Coron, Palawan. This 3,700-hectare recreation reserve and wildlife sanctuary is dwelling to a outstanding number of African and endemic Palawan species, offering a singular mix of safari journey and wildlife conservation within the Philippines.
Established within the Seventies as a part of an environmental venture, the park grew to become dwelling to a bunch of African animals, together with giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. You’ll get a chance to feed giraffes or observe zebras and antelopes grazing across the park, evoking a surreal African safari expertise.
Nonetheless, the park’s appeal extends past its African inhabitants. It additionally serves as a refuge for Palawan’s indigenous species, together with the Calamian deer, Palawan bearcat, and the Palawan peacock-pheasant. You too can discover the island’s pure magnificence, together with its mangrove forests, offering a well-rounded ecological journey. A visit to Calauit Safari Park is a journey into the extraordinary, weaving collectively international and native ecological tapestries.
Unravel the fantastic thing about Port Barton
What to do: Journey/Loosen up / Snorkel/Trek
The place : Port Barton, San Vicente
Port Barton, situated on Palawan’s western coast, is a tranquil gem the place you may escape the busier vacationer spots. Its seaside is a haven of golden sands and crystal-clear waters, making a picturesque scene framed by swaying palm bushes. Vibrant sunsets bathe the village in a heat glow every night, making it an idyllic spot for leisure.
The marine life round Port Barton is wealthy, with coral reefs which can be teeming with a colourful number of fish. Snorkeling right here supplies a captivating glimpse into an underwater world the place you may even spot a sea turtle.
For these looking for journey, the island-hopping excursions are a should. Every island visited boasts pristine magnificence and secluded spots for peaceable swimming. Inland, a trek by means of the jungle will lead you to the beautiful Pamuayan Waterfall, a sight that’s properly well worth the journey.
Above all, Port Barton’s appeal lies in its laid-back environment. The village’s gradual tempo permits guests to really unwind, join with nature, and immerse themselves within the serene simplicity of seaside life. It’s a slice of paradise that leaves each customer captivated.
Go to Palawan Museum and Palawan Heritage Heart
What to do: Picture/Study
How A lot: Free
The place : Puerto Princesa Metropolis
Visiting the Palawan Museum and Heritage Heart is a journey by means of time, one that gives a deep and complete understanding of Palawan’s wealthy cultural and historic heritage.
The Palawan Museum, situated in Puerto Princesa, is a treasure trove of historic artifacts and ethnographic displays. Right here, you may discover the historical past of the Palawan area from prehistoric instances to the current day. The museum homes artifacts from the Tabon Man, one of many oldest human stays discovered within the Philippines, in addition to varied ethnographic collections that showcase the varied traditions and cultures of Palawan’s indigenous teams. Moreover, the museum shows a group of Palawan’s endemic fauna, conventional arts and crafts, and wartime memorabilia from World Conflict II.
In the meantime, the Palawan Heritage Heart, additionally in Puerto Princesa, presents an immersive and interactive expertise. Utilizing state-of-the-art multimedia shows, the middle tells the story of Palawan’s ecological and cultural evolution. From an in depth timeline showcasing Palawan’s historical past, to life-size dioramas and interactive shows, the middle ensures guests acquire a complete understanding of Palawan’s heritage.
A go to to the Palawan Museum and the Palawan Heritage Heart is extremely advisable for anybody serious about delving deeper into the distinctive historical past, ecology, and tradition of Palawan. It supplies an amazing basis of information that can absolutely enrich your appreciation for the island and its folks.
Go to the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Heart
What to do: Picture/Study
How A lot: Php 40/pax
The place : Irawan Puerto Princesa Metropolis
Expertise the distinctive biodiversity of Palawan on the Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Heart in Puerto Princesa. This important refuge is a sanctuary for a myriad of indigenous animals, with its most notable inhabitants being the Philippine crocodiles. Guests have the uncommon alternative to witness these unimaginable creatures up shut, from tiny hatchlings to spectacular adults, whereas studying about their conservation and the vital function they play within the ecosystem. Along with crocodiles, the middle can be a secure haven for rescued and rehabilitated animals like bear cats, Palawan bearded pigs, and quite a lot of chicken species. A mini-zoo additional highlights the wealthy biodiversity of Palawan, giving guests a glimpse of the area’s charming wildlife. A visit to the Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Heart presents not simply an interactive encounter with wildlife, but additionally a deeper understanding of conservation efforts in Palawan.
Embrace Tranquility at Kayangan Lake
Kayangan Lake Entrance
Kayangan Lake
What to do: Picture/ Swim / Snorkel
How A lot: Php 300/pax
The place : Island Tour in Coron
Journey into the center of Coron with a go to to the enchanting Kayangan Lake, thought of certainly one of Asia’s cleanest and clearest lakes. This pure treasure is an integral a part of the Coron Island Tour, providing an expertise of tranquility and untouched magnificence.
The journey to Kayangan Lake begins with a rewarding trek. Halfway, you’re offered with an iconic viewpoint providing a panoramic view of the azure bay dotted with magnificent limestone cliffs. Descending to the lake, you’ll uncover a serene oasis. The crystal-clear waters, revealing a fascinating underwater panorama, supply an otherworldly swimming expertise.
Surrounded by towering rock formations, the lake presents a second of peace amidst the exploration of Coron’s vibrant landscapes. The expertise at Kayangan Lake isn’t just about swimming—it’s an immersion right into a hidden paradise, highlighting the astonishing pure fantastic thing about Coron.
Honda Bay Island Hopping
What to do: Picture/ Swim / Snorkel
How A lot: Php 1,400/pax with Lunch
The place : Honda Bay, Puerto Princesa
Set sail on a Honda Bay Island Hopping tour for an journey you’ll always remember. Hop on a conventional “bangka” boat that can take you to totally different islands, every with its personal appeal. Go to Starfish Island, recognized for its many starfish and nice spots for snorkeling. Subsequent, try Luli Island, a singular island that hides beneath the water at excessive tide and reveals up at low tide. Then, take a break at Cowrie Island, the place you may chill, loosen up, and benefit from the seaside vibes. As you go to every island, you may take pleasure in a scrumptious picnic lunch proper on the seaside, savoring native dishes whereas taking within the view. With its mixture of peaceable seashores, colourful sea life, and laid-back island environment, the Honda Bay Island Hopping tour is a must-do once you’re in Palawan.
Discover the Untouched Paradise of Lengthy Seaside
What to do: Picture/ Swim / Hike
How A lot: Free / Inns Accessible
The place : San Vicente
Lengthy Seaside in San Vicente, Palawan, is named the “longest white seaside within the Philippines.” It stretches over 14 kilometers of untouched shoreline, 3 times longer than Boracay’s White Seaside. Nonetheless, rocky cliffs divide this seaside into six shorter coves.
The easiest way to discover is by motorbike, with excursions accessible from the Tourism Workplace in Poblacion, providing stops from New Agutaya to Alimangoan. The seaside spans throughout Barangays New Agutaya, San Isidro, and Alimangoan.
In 2012, San Vicente noticed solely 8,500 guests, a fraction in comparison with El Nido or Boracay. The world stays undisturbed, with quiet fishing villages. Nonetheless, over 50 traders have purchased properties alongside the seaside, anticipating the completion of the city’s airport.
To succeed in Lengthy Seaside from Puerto Princesa Airport, take a tricycle to San Jose Terminal, adopted by a 3-4 hour bus trip to San Vicente. From the city, a motorbike tour of the seashores could be organized, providing a singular exploration of this serene location.
Enterprise into the Unexplored Islands of Balabac
What to do: Picture/ Swim / Snokel / Loosen up / Journey
How A lot: Php 14,000 for 4D/3N
The place : Balabac group of Islands
Balabac, a secluded group of 31 islands in southern Palawan presents a singular, off-the-beaten-path island-hopping expertise. These largely uninhabited islands boast pink-sand seashores, vibrant coral reefs, various marine life, and uncommon species just like the mouse deer. Regardless of the welcoming locals, international vacationers are few, making Balabac a personal paradise.
The best time to go to is between March and Might, when the climate is nice and the waters calm. The journey to Balabac begins from Puerto Princesa, with a shuttle van trip to Rio Tuba and a subsequent boat trip.
Lodging are primary, with excursions offering tents, hammocks, or mattresses. Meals, usually rice and contemporary fish, are included within the tour package deal. Regardless of rumors of pirate exercise, the islands are usually thought of secure, though precautions towards mosquito-borne illnesses are suggested.
The islands are underdeveloped and privately owned, requiring prior coordination for visits. This untouched pure magnificence makes Balabac an ideal getaway for these looking for solitude and an genuine island expertise.
Go on a Firefly watching tour in Iwahig River
What to do: Journey
How A lot: Php 1,100/pax
The place : Iwahig, Puerto Princesa
The Iwahig River in Puerto Princesa, presents a fascinating firefly watching tour that could be a spectacle of nature’s magic. As evening falls, the riverbanks burst into life with hundreds of fireflies, their twinkling lights illuminating the darkness in a mesmerizing dance. This ethereal show transforms the river right into a star-studded panorama, making a surreal and unforgettable expertise.
The tour commences with a tranquil boat trip alongside the serene Iwahig River. As you navigate beneath the starry sky, the peaceable sounds of the river and the rustling mangroves set a relaxing backdrop. As darkness deepens, the fireflies emerge, their synchronized glow resembling a sky stuffed with stars.
The fireflies, with their bioluminescent abdomens, create this mild present to draw mates. The dense mangrove forests alongside the Iwahig River present a perfect habitat for these creatures, making it a first-rate location for this pure spectacle.
The tour just isn’t solely a visible delight but additionally an academic journey. Guides share insights concerning the fireflies’ life cycle and the essential function of mangroves within the river’s ecosystem. This magical expertise presents a singular alternative to understand nature’s wonders and the significance of conservation.
Climb Taraw Cliff
What to do: Journey / Hike/ Picture
How A lot: Free / Cover Stroll – Php 400
The place : Taraw Cliff, El Nido
Taraw Cliff in El Nido, Palawan, presents an exhilarating climbing expertise for adventure-seekers. The time period “Taraw” refers to mountains within the native dialect, however these will not be unusual mountains. They’re limestone karsts, making the climb each thrilling and difficult.
Applicable footwear is crucial for the climb, and carrying solely crucial objects like water, a face towel, and a digicam is suggested. A information is required for security and navigation by means of the sharp limestone karsts. The very best time to climb is early morning to keep away from the solar’s intense warmth.
The journey to the highest could be powerful, with potential for minor accidents, however the reward is a surprising panoramic view of El Nido, the islands, white sand seashores, and the ocean. The descent is equally difficult, requiring cautious navigation. Total, the Taraw Cliff climb is a testomony to the adage, “No ache, no acquire.”
Witness the Breathtaking View from Matinloc Shrine
What to do: Journey / Sight Seeing / Picture / Island Hopping
How A lot: Php 1,400 included in El Nido Tour C
The place : Bacuit Bay, El Nido
Matinloc Shrine, situated in El Nido, Palawan, presents guests a singular mix of pure magnificence and religious tranquility. The shrine itself is a testomony to religion, but it surely’s the breathtaking view from the shrine that actually captivates guests. Perched on a hill, the shrine supplies a panoramic view of the encircling turquoise waters, lush greenery, and dramatic limestone cliffs. The vista is a feast for the eyes, with the pristine waters of the Bacuit Bay stretching out so far as the attention can see, dotted with quite a few islands. The view from Matinloc Shrine is a reminder of the awe-inspiring fantastic thing about nature, making it a must-visit spot for these looking for a serene and picturesque escape. Whether or not you’re a nature lover, a images fanatic, or a religious seeker, the view from Matinloc Shrine is certain to depart an enduring impression.
Hike Mt. Tapyas
What to do: Journey / Sight Seeing / Picture / Hike
How A lot: Free
The place : Mt. Tapyas, Coron
Elevate your Coron journey with a hike up Mt. Tapyas, one of the vital iconic spots on this island paradise. Though the trek entails navigating over 700 steps, the panoramic views that await on the high are nothing wanting spectacular and properly well worth the effort.
Because the second highest mountain in Coron, Mt. Tapyas presents an distinctive vantage level for appreciating the area’s picturesque landscapes. The summit options a big cross and supplies 360-degree views of Coron city, its bay, and the cluster of close by islands. The surroundings is especially mesmerizing at sundown when the setting solar paints the sky with vibrant hues, and the waters of the bay mirror the colours of the twilight.
This comparatively quick hike is a rewarding tour for any customer to Coron. It’s a testomony to the island’s appeal, serving as a tranquil escape amidst your island-hopping adventures. With each step, Mt. Tapyas invitations you to admire the charming fantastic thing about Coron.
Island Escapade in Coron
What to do: Journey /Swimming / Picture
How A lot: Php 1,800/pax with Lunch
The place : Coron Bay
Immerse your self within the elegant fantastic thing about Coron’s island gems with our Enchanting Escapade Tour. Traverse the colourful shores of Malcapuya Island, unwind amidst the untouched tranquility of Banana Island, and uncover the distinctive attract of Bulog Dos Island.
Give up your self to the charming attract of crystalline turquoise waters, sun-kissed white sandy seashores, and the breathtaking pure surroundings that Coron presents. Reserve your spot now for an island journey in Coron that guarantees to invigorate your senses and create unforgettable reminiscences. Your enchanting island journey awaits.
Dive the Wreck Websites in Coron
What to do: Journey /SCUBA diving / Picture
The place : Coron Bay
Plunge into the previous with an underwater exploration of the numerous wreck websites surrounding Coron. Often called one of many world’s high dive locations for wreck diving, Coron Bay is dwelling to a dozen sunken Japanese warships from World Conflict II.
These hauntingly lovely relics are encrusted with vibrant corals and function sanctuaries for a various array of marine life. Dive websites such because the Irako, Okikawa Maru, and Akitsushima supply a singular window into historical past, permitting divers to navigate the skeletal stays of those as soon as mighty vessels. Every dive web site presents its personal distinctive expertise, from penetrating engine rooms to exploring cargo holds.
For knowledgeable divers, these wrecks current an thrilling problem with their labyrinthine passageways, whereas novice divers can take pleasure in shallower websites with plentiful marine life. Visibility varies relying on the location and climate circumstances, however the sheer abundance of sea life and the fascinating historical past of those wrecks make diving in Coron an unforgettable
Journey into the Previous on the Tabon Cave
What to do: Journey / Picture / Study from previous
How A lot: Php 1,800/pax with Lunch
The place : Tabon Cave, Quezon
The Tabon Cave, situated in Quezon, Southern Palawan, is a outstanding web site famend for its pure magnificence and historic significance. Nestled on a peninsula and accessible solely by boat, the cave is separated from the mainland by a dense, lush mangrove forest.
This cave is well known for its putting limestone formations, offering ample alternatives for exploration. Nonetheless, its true significance lies in its historic worth. Archaeological findings right here embrace part of a human cranium estimated to be about 22,000 years previous, together with pottery, jewellery, and instruments relationship again as much as 47,000 years. This represents the oldest proof of human life discovered within the Philippines, indicating that this space was inhabited hundreds of years in the past.
Guests have the chance to discover the cave, which presents a singular expertise. The expansive cave is stuffed with the echoing sounds of bats and adorned with stalactites and stalagmites, presenting a singular mix of nature, historical past, and journey. Regardless of the steep steps and humid air exterior, the cool inside of the cave presents a refreshing break, making the go to an enriching expertise.
Glide Throughout Islands on a Zipline
What to do: Journey / Picture / Zipline
How A lot: Php 600-800/pax
The place : Close to Las Cabanas Seaside in El Nido
The zipline close to Las Cabanas seaside in El Nido, Palawan, is an exhilarating expertise that mixes journey with breathtaking views. This thrilling exercise permits members to glide over the turquoise waters of the ocean, offering a chicken’s eye view of the beautiful panorama.
The zipline begins from a cliff close to Las Cabanas seaside and ends on Depeldet Island. The trip is roughly 750 meters lengthy, and members can attain speeds of as much as 50 kilometers per hour. As you soar by means of the air, you’ll be handled to panoramic views of the seaside, the ocean, and the encircling islands.
Security is paramount, with all members given a complete security briefing and outfitted with a harness and helmet. The employees are well-trained and be certain that everybody has a secure and pleasant expertise.
Eat Tamilok
What to do: Picture / Unique Meals
How A lot: Php 200-500
The place : Close to Las Cabanas Seaside in El Nido
Tamilok, often known as woodworm or shipworm, is a singular delicacy discovered within the Palawan area of the Philippines. Regardless of its worm-like look, tamilok is definitely a sort of mollusk that lives within the trunks of mangrove bushes. It’s sometimes called the “termites of the ocean.”
Consuming tamilok is a singular culinary expertise. The worms are harvested from mangrove bushes, cleaned, after which served uncooked, usually marinated in vinegar, chili, and onions, much like a ceviche. The style is described as much like oysters, with a barely candy, woody taste and a slimy texture.
Consuming tamilok isn’t just concerning the style, but additionally concerning the expertise. It’s an area custom that gives a glimpse into the distinctive culinary tradition of Palawan. For adventurous eaters, attempting tamilok is a should when visiting the area. It’s a testomony to the biodiversity of the world and the resourcefulness of the native folks in using the assets accessible to them.