About Place
- "The Last Frontier"
- "Unspoiled Paradise"
- "Diving Haven"
- "Crystal Clear Waters"
- "Exotic Wildlife"
Reasons to Visit
Breathtaking Natural Beauty : Palawan is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush green jungles. The island’s beauty is highlighted by destinations such as El Nido, with its dramatic limestone cliffs and hidden lagoons, and the Underground River in Puerto Princesa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its extensive cave system and underground river.
Unique Biodiversity : Palawan is home to an incredible array of wildlife, both on land and in the sea. The Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a diver’s paradise, offering encounters with vibrant coral reefs, whale sharks, manta rays, and an abundance of marine life. On land, the island’s forests are home to unique species like the Palawan peacock-pheasant and the endangered Philippine mouse-deer.
Adventure and Eco-Tourism : Palawan offers numerous adventure activities and eco-tourism opportunities. From island hopping and snorkeling in Coron’s pristine waters to exploring the lush forests and mangroves of the Calamianes Islands, visitors can immerse themselves in the island's natural beauty while engaging in sustainable tourism practices. The local communities are also involved in eco-tourism initiatives, providing authentic cultural experiences.
Visa
- Philippines Citizens : No visa required.
- United States, Canada, European Union, Australia, and most ASEAN countries : No visa required for stays up to 30 days. Extension available.
- Other countries : Check with local Philippine embassy or consulate for specific requirements. Some may require a visa prior to arrival or a visa on arrival.
Travel Expenses
1. Travel to & from Destination :
- Round-trip flights from Manila to Puerto Princesa for two : $150 - $250
2. Hotel Cost :
- Puerto Princesa (2 nights) : $50 per night = $100
- El Nido (3 nights) : $100 per night = $300
- Total : $400
3. Food Cost :
- Average meal cost : $10 per person per meal
- Lunch and dinner for 5 days (2 people) : 5 days x 2 meals x $10 x 2 people = $200
4. Activity Cost :
- City tour in Puerto Princesa : $20 per person
- Underground River Tour : $40 per person
- Island Hopping Tour A : $25 per person
- Sunset cruise in El Nido : $30 per person
- Total for activities : $230 for 2 people
5. Near Destination Travel Cost :
- Van transfer from Puerto Princesa to El Nido : $15 per person each way = $60
- Local transportation and tours : $50
- Total : $110
Estimated Total Travel Expenses :
- Travel to & from destination : $200
- Hotel cost : $400
- Food cost : $200
- Activity cost : $230
- Near destination travel cost : $110
- Total : $1140
Best Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival in Puerto Princesa Upon arrival in Puerto Princesa, check into your hotel and start your journey with a city tour. Visit the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center, known for its crocodile farm, and enjoy a delightful lunch at Ka Inato Restaurant, where you can try local specialties like grilled seafood. In the evening, take a stroll along the Puerto Princesa Baywalk to experience the local night market. End your day with a sumptuous dinner at Kinabuch’s Grill and Bar, savoring dishes such as sinigang (sour soup) and grilled chicken inasal.
Day 2 : Underground River Tour Start your day early with a trip to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. The guided boat tour through the underground river is an unforgettable experience, showcasing stunning limestone formations and diverse wildlife. After the tour, enjoy a lunch of fresh seafood at a nearby restaurant. In the afternoon, relax on Sabang Beach or take a mangrove paddle boat tour. Return to Puerto Princesa for dinner at Kalui Restaurant, known for its unique ambiance and fresh seafood dishes.
Day 3 : El Nido Travel to El Nido, a journey that takes around 5-6 hours by van or bus. Upon arrival, check into your beachfront accommodation. Spend the afternoon exploring the town and relaxing on the beautiful beaches. Have lunch at the Art Café, which offers a variety of local and international dishes. In the evening, take a sunset cruise to enjoy the breathtaking views of Bacuit Bay. Dine at La Plage, a beachfront restaurant known for its French-Asian fusion cuisine.
Day 4 : Island Hopping Tour A Embark on the popular Island Hopping Tour A, visiting iconic spots like the Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, and Shimizu Island. Enjoy a picnic lunch on one of the pristine islands. Spend your afternoon snorkeling and swimming in the crystal-clear waters. Return to El Nido for dinner at Trattoria Altrove, an Italian restaurant famous for its wood-fired pizzas and pastas.
Day 5 : Nacpan Beach and Las Cabanas Take a day trip to Nacpan Beach, known for its long stretch of white sand and clear waters. Relax on the beach, swim, and enjoy lunch at the Nacpan Beach Sunmai Sunset Restaurant. In the late afternoon, head to Las Cabanas Beach for a stunning sunset view. Enjoy a beachfront dinner at Las Cabanas Beach Resort, where you can try local delicacies and international cuisine.
Day 6 : Departure Spend your final morning in El Nido at your leisure, perhaps doing some last-minute shopping or visiting local cafes. After lunch, travel back to Puerto Princesa for your departure. Enjoy a farewell dinner at KaLui Restaurant, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences and natural beauty of Palawan.
Safety Tips
- Always carry a copy of your passport and important documents.
- Use reputable transportation services and avoid unlicensed taxis.
- Stay hydrated and apply sunscreen regularly.
- Be cautious of your belongings and avoid displaying valuables.
- Respect local customs and dress appropriately.
- Avoid isolated areas, especially at night.
- Follow local guidelines for water activities.
- Stay informed about weather conditions and potential natural hazards.
- Use insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites.
- Ensure your travel insurance covers all planned activities.
Flights
- From Manila to Puerto Princesa : Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, AirAsia. Average flight time: 1.5 hours. Cost: $50 - $125.
- Return Flight : Same airlines and cost.
Hotels
- Puerto Princesa : Princesa Garden Island Resort, Blue Palawan Beach Club, Hue Hotels and Resorts.
- El Nido : El Nido Resorts Miniloc Island, Lagùn Hotel, Spin Designer Hostel.
Contacts
- Indian Embassy : +63 2 8815 3661
- Police : 117
- Ambulance : 911
- Firefighters : 911
Country
Closet Airport
- Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS)
Nearest City
- Manila
Heritage Sites
Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park
Airlines
- Philippine Airlines
- Cebu Pacific
- AirAsia
Currency
- Philippine Peso (PHP)
Languages Spoken
- Filipino
- English
Real Story
During World War II, the Philippines was a crucial battleground in the Pacific Theater. One of the most significant naval battles in history, the Battle of Leyte Gulf, occurred in October 1944. This battle was pivotal in the liberation of the Philippines from Japanese occupation and marked a turning point in the Pacific War.
Palawan played a strategic role in this conflict. As an elongated island stretching southwest from Luzon towards Borneo, Palawan's location made it a critical point for both the Japanese and Allied forces. The island's airfields and natural harbors were used by the Japanese to launch air and sea operations across the region. Consequently, Palawan became a target for Allied forces seeking to disrupt Japanese supply lines and establish control over the Philippines.
On December 14, 1944, a tragic event unfolded on Palawan that would be remembered as a symbol of the war's brutality. Japanese forces, anticipating the imminent arrival of Allied troops, committed a horrific atrocity against American prisoners of war (POWs) held in a camp near Puerto Princesa. To prevent the POWs from being liberated and possibly aiding the Allies, the Japanese forced the prisoners into air-raid shelters, poured gasoline over them, and set them on fire. Those who tried to escape were shot. Out of the approximately 150 POWs, only 11 managed to survive by swimming across the bay and hiding until they were rescued by Filipino guerrillas.
This massacre shocked the world and highlighted the severe conditions and atrocities committed during the war. The surviving POWs' testimonies played a crucial role in post-war trials and brought attention to the need for justice for war crimes.
After the war, Palawan began to recover and rebuild. The island's natural beauty and resources helped it gradually transform from a war-torn region to a premier tourist destination. The memory of the Palawan Massacre is preserved in a memorial and museum in Puerto Princesa, serving as a reminder of the island's wartime history and the resilience of its people.
Cuisine
Palawan's cuisine is a delightful mix of indigenous flavors and influences from Spanish, Malay, and Chinese cooking. Fresh seafood is a staple, with dishes like kinilaw (raw fish marinated in vinegar and citrus juices) and chicken inasal (grilled chicken) being local favorites. Exotic options like crocodile sisig and tamilok (woodworm) provide adventurous culinary experiences. The use of tropical fruits, coconut milk, and local herbs adds a unique taste to Palawan’s dishes, making its cuisine both diverse and flavorful.
Culture and History
Palawan, often referred to as "The Last Frontier," is a province in the Philippines known for its stunning natural landscapes, rich biodiversity, and vibrant local culture. The island's culture is a blend of indigenous traditions, colonial influences, and modern Filipino elements.
The indigenous groups in Palawan, such as the Tagbanwa, Palaw'an, and Batak, have preserved their ancestral customs and practices. They live in harmony with nature, relying on fishing, hunting, and farming for their livelihood. Their traditional knowledge of herbal medicine, weaving, and music plays a significant role in their cultural identity. The Tagbanwa, for instance, are known for their intricate basket weaving and unique rituals like the Pagdiwata, a thanksgiving festival to honor their deities.
Spanish colonization left a lasting impact on Palawan, introducing Christianity and new agricultural practices. The island's colonial history is evident in its architecture, with Spanish-era churches and forts scattered across the region. However, despite these influences, the indigenous communities have maintained their distinct cultural heritage.
Modern Palawan is a melting pot of cultures, with migrants from other parts of the Philippines and abroad contributing to the diversity. Festivals like the Baragatan Festival celebrate this cultural blend, showcasing traditional dances, music, and local cuisine. The island's cuisine reflects its multicultural roots, offering a variety of dishes that highlight local ingredients like fresh seafood, coconut, and tropical fruits.
Palawan's commitment to environmental conservation is a significant aspect of its culture. The province is home to several protected areas, including the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park and the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. These conservation efforts are supported by both the government and local communities, who recognize the importance of preserving their natural heritage for future generations.