Puerto Princesa Underground River
This protected national park features a navigable subterranean river that flows directly into the sea through a massive cave system filled with stalactites.
Palawan, MIMAROPA · Philippines
Palawan
Palawan is a sprawling archipelagic province known for its dramatic limestone karst landscapes, turquoise lagoons, and diverse marine ecosystems. It offers a distinct mix of terrestrial adventure and coastal exploration across its major hubs.
About Palawan
A province of limestone islands, lagoons, and living reefs
Palawan stands out globally as a premier destination for travelers seeking diverse natural beauty, characterized by towering limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, lush rainforests, and expansive coral reefs. The province is frequently recognized in international travel media for its striking landscapes and rich biodiversity both on land and beneath the water.
The province is divided into distinct travel regions, each offering a unique character. Puerto Princesa serves as the provincial capital and primary gateway on the central mainland. To the north lies El Nido, celebrated for its complex network of islands and hidden lagoons. Further north, the Coron and Busuanga island group stands as a distinct destination, known for its deep lakes and historical maritime shipwrecks.
Experiences across the province cater to a wide array of interests. Travelers can navigate the subterranean waters of a UNESCO World Heritage site, engage in snorkeling and scuba diving among vibrant reefs, or relax on secluded beaches. The inland areas offer opportunities for nature trekking, wildlife observation, and exploring quiet coastal villages that feel worlds away from the busier tourist hubs.
Trip planning in Palawan requires careful consideration of its significant size. The main island is long and thin, meaning travel between the capital and the northern towns involves substantial land journeys. Furthermore, the Coron island group is separated from the mainland by open sea, requiring a separate flight or a ferry leg. Visitors are encouraged to choose specific bases for their stay rather than attempting to cover the entire province in a single brief trip.
Places & Experiences
Highlights of Palawan
El Nido Bacuit Bay
Bacuit Bay is defined by its iconic limestone karst formations that create a labyrinth of lagoons, hidden beaches, and sheltered coves.
Coron and Busuanga Lakes
The Coron area is renowned for its freshwater lakes set among jagged limestone peaks, along with historical shipwreck sites accessible to divers.
Port Barton Coastline
The coastal areas around Port Barton offer a more relaxed atmosphere with long stretches of sandy beaches and a quieter pace of life compared to the more developed hubs.
Travel Planning
Plan your Palawan journey
Getting There
- Puerto Princesa serves as the primary gateway for international and domestic arrivals to the Palawan mainland.
- Flights also serve the El Nido area and the Busuanga airport serving the Coron area, helping to minimize travel time for visitors focusing on those specific regions.
- Travelers moving between major hubs often utilize land transfers for mainland destinations, while ferries connect the Coron island group to the mainland. Coron sits on a separate island group from the Puerto Princesa and El Nido mainland, so reaching it involves its own arrival decision.
Best Time to Visit
The drier months, typically extending from November to May, generally offer the most favorable conditions for boat-based activities and outdoor exploration. The wetter months, which usually occur from June to October, may bring more frequent rain and occasional travel disruptions.
Travel Tips
- Distances between the northern and southern parts of the island are significant, requiring dedicated travel days if moving between multiple hubs.
- It is advisable to book popular boat tours and transportation in advance during peak travel seasons.
- Many protected areas and national parks require environmental permits and entrance fees which are usually processed through local operators or tourism offices.
- While digital payments are becoming more common in urban areas, carrying sufficient cash is essential when visiting more remote islands and smaller coastal villages.
Where to Stay
Find Places to Stay in Palawan
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Getting There
Plan Your Trip to Palawan
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Things to Do
Explore the Puerto Princesa Underground River
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Group & Organized Travel
Planning a group trip to Palawan?
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