Puerto Princesa, nestled on the captivating island of Palawan in the Philippines, is a tropical paradise known for its pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and the famous Puerto Princesa Underground River. This travel guide will lead you through the natural wonders, and cultural experiences, and provide essential information on prices for accommodation, dining, transportation, and activities in Puerto Princesa.

General Information

• Languages: Filipino and English are widely spoken.
• Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP)
• Underground River: Puerto Princesa is home to the UNESCO-listed Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, featuring the Underground River.
• Island Hopping: Explore nearby islands, including Honda Bay, for stunning beaches and snorkeling spots.
  

Main Attractions

1. Puerto Princesa Underground River: Begin your exploration at this natural wonder, taking a boat tour through a cave system adorned with limestone formations.
2. Honda Bay: Embark on an island-hopping adventure to discover pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs.
3. Sabang Beach: Relax on Sabang Beach, a picturesque stretch of white sand with a laid-back atmosphere.
   

Transportation Examples

• Tricycles: Tricycles are a common mode of transportation within the city, with fares starting from 20 PHP.
• Van Rentals: Renting a van for day tours or island-hopping adventures may range from 1,500 PHP to 3,000 PHP.
• Jeepneys: Jeepneys and multicabs are available for short-distance travel, with fares starting from 10 PHP.
  

Itinerary

Day 1-3: Underground River and City Exploration

• Take a guided tour to the Puerto Princesa Underground River, exploring its mesmerizing cave formations.
• Wander through the city center, visiting the Palawan Special Battalion World War II Museum and Plaza Cuartel.
• Indulge in local cuisine at the famous Baker’s Hill and explore its scenic gardens.
  

Day 4-6: Island Hopping and Water Adventures

• Embark on an island-hopping adventure to Honda Bay, visiting islands like Pandan, Starfish, and Luli for snorkeling and relaxation.
• Explore the pristine beaches of Sabang, including Sabang Beach and Nagtabon Beach.
• Take a dip in the refreshing waters of the Iwahig River, known for its firefly-watching tours.
  

Day 7-9: Nature Retreats and Cultural Immersion

• Visit the Butterfly Eco-Garden and Tribal Village for a closer look at Palawan’s diverse flora and indigenous culture.
• Explore the mangrove forests of Puerto Princesa with a Mangrove Paddle Boat Tour.
• Relax and unwind at the tranquil Maoyon River, surrounded by lush greenery.
  

Prices

Accommodation:

• Guesthouses and Budget Hotels: Budget accommodations start from approximately 1,000 PHP to 3,000 PHP per night.
• Mid-Range Resorts: Comfortable mid-range resorts may cost between 3,000 PHP and 6,000 PHP per night.
• Beachfront Villas:* Enjoy beachfront villas or luxury resorts, with prices ranging from 6,000 PHP to 15,000 PHP per night.
  

Dining:

• Local Eateries: Enjoy budget-friendly meals at local eateries, with prices ranging from 100 PHP to 300 PHP per person.
• Seafood Restaurants: Indulge in fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants, with prices starting from 300 PHP per person and going higher.
• International Cuisine:* Dining in international or upscale restaurants may cost between 500 PHP and 1,500 PHP per person.
  

Transportation:

• Tricycles: Tricycle fares start from 20 PHP for short distances.
• Van Rentals:* Van rentals for day tours or island hopping may range from 1,500 PHP to 3,000 PHP.
• Jeepneys and Multicabs:* Jeepney and multicab fares start from 10 PHP for short-distance travel.
  

Activities:

• Underground River Tour: Underground River tour fees are approximately 1,500 PHP, including boat transfers and permits.
• Island-Hopping Tour in Honda Bay: Island-hopping tour prices in Honda Bay may range from 1,000 PHP to 2,500 PHP, depending on the inclusions.
• Mangrove Paddle Boat Tour: Mangrove Paddle Boat Tour fees are around 800 PHP per person.
  

Miscellaneous:

• SIM Cards: Prepaid SIM cards with data can be purchased for around 50 PHP to 100 PHP.
• Bottled Water: A bottle of water is typically around 20 PHP.
• Souvenirs or Local Crafts:* Souvenirs or local crafts can range from 100 PHP to 500 PHP.
  

Puerto Princesa, with its natural wonders and cultural richness, invites you to explore its beaches, underground rivers, and vibrant city life. Use this guide to plan your itinerary and budget, ensuring you make the most of your time in this tropical paradise of Palawan. Puerto Princesa awaits, ready to offer you a journey through its landscapes, waters, and warm hospitality.

Basically:

• Explore Puerto Princesa Underground River:
  • Embark on a boat tour to the Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature.
    
• Visit Honda Bay Islands:
  • Take an island-hopping tour to Honda Bay, exploring beautiful islands like Pandan Island, Starfish Island, and Cowrie Island, known for snorkeling and relaxation.
    
• Discover Iwahig Firefly Watching:
  • Experience a magical evening with firefly watching along the Iwahig River, witnessing the mesmerizing display of these luminescent insects.
    
• Explore Sabang Mangrove Paddle Boat Tour:
  • Join a paddle boat tour through the mangrove forests of Sabang, offering a serene and eco-friendly way to explore the natural surroundings.
    
• Visit Baker’s Hill:
  • Explore Baker’s Hill, a picturesque park featuring themed gardens, sculptures, and a bakery offering a variety of pastries and snacks.
    
• Relax at Nagtabon Beach:
  • Unwind at Nagtabon Beach, a less crowded beach with golden sand and clear waters, perfect for swimming and enjoying the sunset.
    
• Take a City Tour:
  • Discover the highlights of Puerto Princesa by taking a city tour, including visits to the Cathedral, Plaza Cuartel, and Mitra’s Ranch.
    
• Visit Mitra’s Ranch:
  • Enjoy panoramic views of Puerto Princesa by visiting Mitra’s Ranch, a hilltop property with a viewing deck and recreational activities.
    
• Try the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center:
  • Visit the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center, formerly known as the Crocodile Farm, to see various species of crocodiles and other wildlife.
    
• Relax at Hartman Beach:
  • Enjoy a peaceful day at Hartman Beach, a hidden gem with calm waters and a tranquil atmosphere.
    
• Try Palawan Specialties:
  • Indulge in local Palawan specialties such as tamilok (woodworm), crocodile sisig, and other seafood dishes at local eateries.
    
• Visit the Palawan Museum:
  • Explore the Palawan Museum, showcasing artifacts, exhibits, and the cultural history of Palawan.
    
• Experience Ugong Rock Adventures:
  • Embark on an adventure at Ugong Rock, featuring caving, ziplining, and rock climbing activities with stunning limestone formations.
• Relax at Talaudyong Beach:
  • Discover the serene Talaudyong Beach, offering a peaceful escape and a chance to appreciate the natural beauty of Palawan.
    
• Visit the Butterfly Garden:
  • Explore the Butterfly Garden, a haven for various butterfly species, providing an educational and enchanting experience.
    
• Try Vietnamese Cuisine at Bona’s Chaolongan:
  • Experience the delicious Vietnamese cuisine at Bona’s Chaolongan, known for its authentic flavors and cozy ambiance.
    
• Take a Mangrove Paddle Boat Tour at Sabang:
  • Explore the mangrove forests of Sabang through a paddle boat tour, witnessing the diverse ecosystem and birdlife.
    
• Visit the Immaculate Conception Cathedral:
  • Discover the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, a historic church with a striking facade and religious significance.
    
• Relax at the Puerto Princesa City Baywalk:
  • Stroll along the Puerto Princesa City Baywalk, a scenic waterfront promenade perfect for a leisurely evening walk.
    
• Visit the Palawan Special Battalion World War II Memorial Museum:
  • Learn about the World War II history of Palawan by visiting the Palawan Special Battalion World War II Memorial Museum.
    
• Try the Palawan Coffee at Bona’s:
  • Enjoy a cup of Palawan coffee at Bona’s, a local coffee shop known for its freshly brewed beans and cozy atmosphere.
    
• Visit the Iwahig Penal Colony:
  • Explore the Iwahig Penal Colony, known for its open prison system and agricultural rehabilitation programs.
    
• Attend the Puerto Princesa Underground River Festival:
  • If visiting in March, participate in or witness the Puerto Princesa Underground River Festival, celebrating the natural wonders of the area.
    
• Discover the Palawan Heritage Center:
  • Visit the Palawan Heritage Center, a museum showcasing the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the Palawan people.
    
• Try Water Activities at White Beach:
  • Engage in water activities such as paddleboarding or kayaking at White Beach, known for its powdery sand and clear waters.
    

Puerto Princesa, with its natural wonders, cultural attractions, and serene beaches, offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers exploring Palawan.