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16 Top Things To Do In Puerto Princesa + Where To Stay [Updated Travel Guide]

Here is an updated list of the top things to do in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, as well as the best hotels that you can choose from.

On our way to Puerto Princesa City

What to do in puerto princesa (familiarization tour), 1. palawan wildlife rescue and conservation center, 2. buy food products made of crocodile meat, 3. mitra's ranch, 4. baker's hill, 5. buy pasalubong , 6. plaza cuartel, 7. immaculate conception cathedral, 8. puerto princesa underground river tour, 9. honda bay island-hopping tour, 10. eat at kalui restaurant , 11. try the fresh seafood at baywalk, 12. have dinner at kinabuch's grill and bar, 13. eat tamilok, 14. tour dos palmas island resort & spa, 15. isla puting buhangin, 16. go on a mangrove tour, sample puerto princesa tour itinerary, day 1 - puerto princesa city tour.

• Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center (8:00 AM to 8:45 AM)
• Mitra's Ranch (9:00 AM to 9:15 AM)
• Baker's Hill (9:30 AM to 10:00 AM)
• Buy pasalubong (10:15 AM to 10:45 AM)
• Plaza Cuartel (11:00 AM to 11:15 AM)
• Immaculate Conception Cathedral (11:30 AM to 12:00 PM)

Day 2 - Puerto Princesa Underground River

• Depart for Sabang Beach (8:00 AM)
• Boat ride to Puerto Princesa Underground River (10:00 AM to 10:30 AM)
• Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour (11:00 AM to 12:00 NN) - note that this is an ideal scenario where there is no waiting time
• Lunch (12:00 NN to 1:00 PM)
• Depart for Puerto Princesa City (1:15 PM)

Day 3 - Honda Bay Island-Hopping Tour

• Depart for fisherman's wharf (8:00 AM)
• Boat ride to Starfish Island (9:00 AM to 11:00 AM)
• Boat ride to Luli Island (1:15 PM to 2:15 PM)
• Boat ride to Cowrie Island (3:00 PM to 3:30 PM)
• Boat ride to fisherman's wharf (4:00 PM to 5:00 PM)
• Van to the hotel (5:15 PM to 5:45 PM)

The 12 best hotels in Puerto Princesa, Palawan

1. aziza paradise hotel, 2. citystate asturias hotel, 3. ej pension house, 4. go hotels, 5. holiday suites, 6. house of big brother, 7. islands stay hotel, 8. one manalo place, 9. palawan village hotel, 10. ponce de leon garden resort, 11. sheridan beach resort & spa, 12. subli guest cabins.

Similar Stories

• Puerto Princesa Food Diary (Updated)
• Enjoying the quietude of Dos Palmas Island Resort and Spa

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10 comments

It was nice touring the city with you. After reading so many posts about the beaches and islands of the Philippines, this one offered a different perspective and I liked it a lot. I can see that you enjoyed every moment of it :)

We didnt spend any time sightseeing in Puerto princessa while we were there but having read this I wish we had now! The new airport is very swanky

I have not been to Puerto princessa. It looks beautiful. The church is huge and looks magnificent.

Oh wow there is SO much to see here isn't there?? I have never been but again, it's on my list of places to see at some point in the future. I feel as though I toured with you through your beautiful photos though!

I think you are brave to see the crocodiles as I am quite squeamish but how amazing that they can go days without food, I really had no idea! x

What a fun day you guys had! I'm a huge fan of churches and seek them out wherever my husband and I travel. Also, I'd love to stop for lunch at Al-fresco, anything outdoors is prefect for me! x

That looks so cool! To be honest I've only seen crocodiles and movies and I NEVER looked at pictures of it.. and seeing the pictures and everything was so fascinating and I was getting anxious at the same time haha! Also it's interesting how they can go days without food.

Oh wow. It seems that this place has everything! Museums, churches, great hiking spots, and crocodile farms! (Ewww. scary).I hope to be able to visit Puerto Princesa soon!

Congratulations on the amazing wedding anniversary trip. It looks like it was such an amazing and unique experience. Definitely a journey worth taking. Love the bakery place although I would be afraid of the crocodiles.

Looks like you guys had an amazing time, with so much to see and do. A very educational day out.

• Palawan / Philippines / Puerto Princesa / Travel Guides

Puerto Princesa City Tour DIY Travel Guide – Palawan

by LoveEatWander · January 18, 2019

Puerto Princesa City Tour can be the “schedule filler” during your Palawan trip. Compared to Underground River Tour and Honda Bay Tour that require one whole day, Puerto Princesa City Tour can be done in a half day. If you have an early morning or late afternoon flight, and has no activity in line when you arrive or before you leave Palawan, you can opt to do the city tour.

When we went to Puerto Princesa, we did the city tour before our flight back to Manila. We started at 9AM and ended at 2PM. After the tour, we went directly to the airport for our 3PM flight. It is important to secure accommodation within the city proper for convenience and easy access to transportation.  

Table of Contents

Several Ways to Do the City Tour

Diy or do-it-yourself puerto princesa city tour.

• If you know how to drive a motorcycle then you can rent one and roam the city by yourself. For just Php100 per hour or Php500 for the whole day, you can go to all the places you prefer. You can find these motorbikes for rent beside the exit gate of the airport.
• If you are with other travellers (2-4 pax) you can charter a tricycle to take you to the places you fancy. Rental costs around Php500 to Php 700. Tricycles swarm every corner of Puerto Princesa as they are the primary means of transportation. Just approach a tricycle driver and inform them of your intent of doing the city tour.
• If you are in a bigger group, you can opt to charter a multicab (Php800 to Php1, 000) or van (Php1,000 to Php1,500). Vans for rent are usually offered by travel agencies. You may ask around or search Google to find one.
• You may also use the public transport, a combination of tricycle, jeepney, and/or multicabs. Although this option can be cheaper than the other options provided above, commuting can be such a hassle. If you plan to do this, you may just ask directions from locals and drivers to get to the places you want.
• Take advantages of tour packages from travel agencies . They usually charge Php600 per person for a package that includes the following: air-conditioned transfer, licensed tour guide, and entrance fees. You may opt to contact our travel partner Sole Adventours for booking. They will take care of everything.  

Places to Visit During Puerto Princesa City Tour  

• Binuatan Creations Handloom Weaving – this is a well-known handicraft shop where you can observe and personally experience making handloom woven products using the indigenous plant fibers of Palawan. Their products are world-class exports and you can buy these native products when you visit the place. Location: Pajara, Sta. Monica, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan. Contact Number (048) 433-7630
• Palawan Butterfly Garden – From the name itself, this is a small place with lots of butterflies of various colors and sizes. If you want to experience walking in a butterfly sanctuary and be greeted by these sweet and colorful flying objects, or if you want to know how an ugly caterpillar becomes something of impressive beauty, then visit this place. Entrance fee: Php50. Location: Bunk House Rd., Santa Monica, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan.
• Bakers Hill – this probably is the most popular place to visit when doing the city tour. It is a bakery/restaurant with beautiful landscaping. It offers a mini-park where visitors can relax. It is open for public (except on Monday). Here, you can enjoy the deliciously baked bread while enjoying the homey atmosphere of the vicinity. Make sure to try the Hopia Ube and Hopia Baboy that they sell. Entrance Fee: Free. Location: Mitra Road, Barangay Sta. Monica, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan
• Mitra’s Ranch – A ranch situated in an elevated portion of Palawan, providing a beautiful view of the city. This place is privately owned by the governor of Palawan but was opened for the public entertainment. When you visit Mitra’s Ranch, try the Rancho Zipline which costs Php500 for 3 lines. Entrance Fee: Free. Location: Sta Monica Heights, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan
• Iwahig Prison – a famous penal place where, instead of bars, you will see greeneries, shelters, ponds, and people in color-coded shirts freely roaming around, doing chores and other activities. These people in color-coded shirts are actually the prisoners themselves! Go visit the place, talk to them and share stories with them. You can even dance with them!
• Crocodile Farm (Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center) – Aside from hundreds of hundreds of crocodiles, this place also holds other endemic species such as the Palawan bearcat, porcupines, bearded pig, different sizes and colors of birds, and other exotic animals. I do not personally like their little zoo because the animals inside do not look healthy at all. Cages are rusty, animals are dirty, and some of them look thirsty and hungry. I hope the park just focus on crocodiles, which they seem to be managing pretty well. Entrance Fee: Php100. Location: Barangay Irawan, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan.
• Plaza Cuartel – this place used to be a Japanese garrison during WWII. It has been converted into a memorial park for war victims. The place is okay but nothing extraordinary.
• Cathedral – historical church with a grand and impressive structure.
• Baywalk – this place is the most popular strolling ground in Puerto Princesa nowadays. You can rent a bike or walk by the concrete road along the shoreline and enjoy the street food while appreciating the vast view of the bay. The local government of Puerto Princesa is doing a great job in keeping Baywalk clean and orderly despite the crowds that flock in the area. Kudos!  

Book your Puerto Princesa City Heritage Tour below:

Additional Places To Visit & Other Activities

The things provided above are the usual places where the tricycle driver will bring you during the city tour for the quoted budget. If you have extra money and time, you may also try other activities and visit other places like the ones provided below. You may still charter a tricycle, multicab, van, or motorcycle, and include the following in your itinerary but the rates can be a bit higher.

• Firefly Watching in Iwahig – Looking at the cluster of glowing insects that can transform a simple tree into a magical diagram can be one of the most surreal experiences. Much more if these lights are produced by little bodies of fireflies! Just ask your driver to take you to Iwahig River where you can rent a small boat (Php600 – Php800 for 2-4 persons). If you want a hassle-free firefly watching tour, a lot of travel agencies are offering this said activity for Php1, 300. The rate already includes van service, cottage rental, boat rental, tour guide, and dinner at the site.
• Ugong Rock – a limestone rock formation standing 75-feet high which can be climbed through caves and crevices. You may go here directly or drop by this place in the morning before your Underground River tour (if you plan to do so). Activities: Rock Climbing: Php200 person. Zip Line: Php250 per person. Location: Baranggay Tagabinet, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan.
• Sta. Lourdes Hot Spring – Enjoy a very relaxing dip at the hot spring pools of Sta. Lourdes. Although far from other city destinations, this hot spring is worth visiting. There is no entrance fee but you are required to rent a pool (Php400 – Php1,000 depending on the size) when you visit the place.

Travel Tips for Puerto Princesa City Tour

• Make sure to book your accommodation within the city proper if you will take advantage of Puerto Princesa City Tour from a travel agency as they charge additional (from Php250 to Php2,500) for those whose hotels are outside the city. Yeah, the surcharge can be more expensive than the package.
• Puerto Princesa City Tour DIY is good for a group with at least 6 members. It is indeed a more affordable option and you will have more control over your time.
• We personally suggest that you take advantage of organized tour services to stay away from hassles and misfortunes especially if you are travelling in a small group.
• If you want to take advantage of Puerto Princesa Tour package, you may get in touch with our partner travel agency,  Sole Adventours .
• For more virtual and interactive live updates, you can check our INSTAGRAM PAGE or follow us on TWITTER .
• Be part of Love. Eat. Wander. Facebook Community Page for more updates and travel tips or visit our YouTube Channel for videos.

Thank you for dropping by!

Should you want to add/dispute something in this article, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you!

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Top 10 Tours & Activities in Puerto Princesa Palawan

10. Palawan Butterfly Ecological Garden and Tribal Village Tour

9. plaza cuartel tour.

• 8. Mitra's Ranch Tour

7. Crocodile Farm Tour

6. ugong rock adventures tour.

• 5. Firefly Watching Tour
• 4. Beach Tour
• 3. Baker's Hill Tour
• 2. Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour

1. Underground River Tour

Located in the island province of Palawan , Puerto Princesa boasts several nature attractions that earned it the moniker "The City in the Forest." Popularly known as the site of the world-renowned Underground River , which visitors can explore via a Puerto Princesa Underground River tour  and Puerto Princesa tours , the city rewards travelers with an array of other natural, cultural, culinary, and historical places to explore.

See our popular Puerto Princesa Tours and Activities

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Puerto Princesa is also known as the gateway to another top Palawan destination, El Nido , but it's worth spending a few days here to enjoy the attractions it offers. Explore the local food scene, heritage towns, and great outdoors surrounding the city as part of your Puerto Princesa itinerary. 

• Read our article on the best hotels and resorts in Puerto Princesa

To help you plan your trip, here are some highly recommended Puerto Princesa tours you shouldn't miss when visiting this Palawan destination:

Experience a cultural immersion and nature learning by visiting the Butterfly Ecological Garden and Tribal Village. Aside from seeing an assorted set of colorful flapping butterflies, you will also learn about their life-cycle and mating behaviors. Other attractions of the garden include several endemic wildlife creatures such as the Palawan peacock and the Palawan bearcat.

On the far end of the Butterfly Garden, you will find the tribal village built to mimic the traditional villages of the original settlers of Palawan. At the village, you can interact with some members of the Palaw'an tribe (or Palau-an tribe) as they show you their crafts like their ancient language called the "Palawan paleography" and make you listen to them playing their musical instruments. 

Take advantage of this tour by also buying some handicrafts and woven products from the Palau-an tribe members as these objects are considered as some of the finest souvenir items you can buy in Palawan.

One of the main highlights of a Puerto Princesa City Tour is the historic Plaza Cuartel, a ruins of an old garrison housing a network of tunnels underground. This is a landmark that commemorates the grim events of the infamous Palawan Massacre that happened during World War II. On December 14, 1944, Japanese soldiers executed more than 150 Filipino and American prisoners of war by burning them alive. They were doused by gasoline, according to the accounts of 11 survivors. 

The heroism of the soldiers now serves as a reminder of the grim realities of war through an outdoor war museum and shrine built in Plaza Cuartel. After your visit to Plaza Cuartel, you can walk towards the nearby Immaculate Concepcion Cathedral which started out as a small chapel until it was converted to a Cathedral in the 1960s. 

8. Mitra's Ranch Tour

The name of the late former Philippine Senator and Speaker of the House Ramon Mitra Jr. is a familiar name in Philippine politics. In Puerto Princesa, the name is even more respected thanks to his family's property, the Rancho Sta. Monica or popularly known as Mitra Ranch. It is one of the city's most popular tourist spots. 

A tour of Mitra Ranch will reward you with a chance to relax with nature. You can also try outdoor activities like horseback riding, zip-line flying, jumping on a trampoline.

Mitra Mansion also doubles as a mini-museum housing various memorabilia of the family. There is also a view deck where you can see the surrounding countryside.

You don't have to waddle in the waters of a swampy river to see crocodiles up close. In Puerto Princesa, you can join a crocodile farm tour to the Palawan Rescue and Wildlife Conservation Centre or simply known as the Crocodile Farm.

Doubling as a research center for crocodiles and other local endangered species, it is a great place to learn a thing or two about nature conservation. 

The more than 8-acre conservation center houses hundreds of saltwater and freshwater crocodiles. A mini-zoo is also located inside the property as well as a hatching area where you can see and even pet adorable newly-hatched crocodiles with supervision.

A project of a community-based sustainable tourism project gave birth to this outdoor attraction catering to adventure seekers. Centered on a 75-feet tall moss-grown limestone rock called the Ugong Rock, visitors here can enjoy an array of thrilling activities like rock climbing, spelunking, and base jumping.

There is also a zip line where you can experience flying like Superman while enjoying the 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains and lush fields. 

Ugong Rock is a popular stop for tourists coming to and from the World UNESCO Heritage Site Puerto Princesa Subterranean River or Underground River, not only because of its proximity but also due to its adventure appeal. 

Ugong Rock was also selected as a pit stop for one of the challenges shot in Palawan for an episode from one of the earlier seasons of The Amazing Race.

5. Firefly Watching Tour 

The rivers of Iwahig and Irawan, both hidden inside a canopy of mangrove forests, hosts thousands of fireflies that light up the darkened sky during the night. A tour to either of the two rivers, will take you on a paddleboat cruise over its still-waters and slicing through a jungle dotted with mangrove trees.

See our popular Firefly Watching Tours

Bohol firefly watching private evening cruise at abatan river with transfers, palawan coron firefly watching walking tour with dinner & transfers, palawan puerto princesa bay cruise & iwahig river firefly watching tour with dinner & transfers.

On a clear night, you will see the gleaming illuminations of the fireflies and the clear constellations of the sky, all conspires to create a fascinating picture of what the real beauty of nature is all about.

4. Beach Tour 

Travelers riding a motorcycle sporting a good tan is a common sight here because beach-hopping by land is always a top thing to do in Puerto Princesa. 

Other than the island-hopping tour on a boat, you can easily explore beaches in Puerto Princesa by land as it is surrounded by a lengthy stretch of magnificent shoreline gleaming with white sands and azure-colored waters. 

Beach destinations like Sabang Beach, Nagtabon Beach (also a surfing spot), and Talaudyong Beach are just a few of the popular ones. Lined with towering coconut trees and covered with powdery sands, these beaches are the perfect places to enjoy a morning or an afternoon of beach relaxation. 

See our popular Beach Tours

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When you're in Nagtabon Beach, do check out the vegan food truck called "Surf Surf Cafe" where you can even ask the owner James Betia for some surf lessons as well.

3. Baker's Hill Tour

If you fancy a good meal with a great ambience, head out to Baker's Hill. It is located on top of a hill near the city center of Puerto Princesa.

They sell a variety of baked goods and is particularly known for their version of the hopia (bean-filled pastry) which comes in different flavors. Aside from these savory snacks, they also serve a wide selection of dishes of pasta, pizza, sandwiches, chicken varieties, and some local specialties such as the Palawan delicacy Tamilok (woodworm drenched in vinegar).

Before or after your meal, spend some time walking around the property's spacious garden where you can have a picture taken with the many fun statues and colorful flowers seen all over the well-manicured garden. Baker's Hill also has a view deck where you can gaze at the picturesque panoramic view of Puerto Princesa.

2. Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour 

Puerto Princesa is often overlooked in favor of more popular Palawan destinations like  Coron and El Nido. But the islands dotting the coast of Puerto Princesa possess their own charms that would appeal to the lovers of the great outdoors. White sandy shores edged by waters teeming with marine life characterize the islands around Honda Bay. 

See our popular Honda Bay Island Hopping Tours

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Honda Bay is easily accessible from the city center of Puerto Princesa via a short ride to the wharf where you can board motorized boats for your island-hopping tour. 

Island hopping in Puerto Princesa will let you exploring the soft sandy beaches of of Starfish Island, Luli Island, and Cowrie Island. 

Most Honda Bay island hopping packages include a sumptuous lunch at Cowrie Island with the beautiful backdrop of the ocean. Take your time frolicking on the sandbar of Luli Island and snorkel to see the marine life-rich waters of Starfish Island.

Doing the Underground River tour to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is a must-add to any Palawan itinerary. It is also one of the best caves in the Philippines that you can explore without a challenging trek or spelunking activity.

As Puerto Princesa's main tourism draw, this natural marvel more than lives up to its billing. The Underground River 's 8.2-kilometer explorable length is laden with spectacular limestone karts featuring impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations that were shaped by nature for hundreds of thousands of years. 

See our popular Puerto Princesa Underground River Tours

Palawan puerto princesa underground river shared tour with lunch & transfers, puerto princesa palawan underground river tour with lunch, hotel transfers & travel insurance.

A tour here is also made more memorable by the anecdotes from the tour guides who describe each cave attraction in a comedic manner to make the experience more memorable. The Underground River is surrounded by a lush forest inhabited by playful monkeys and a host of creatures such as a variety of bird species, reptiles, and other mammals. 

If you're feeling a little more adventurous, you can opt for a hiking tour from Sabang and into the forest going to the Underground River. Most tourists though, prefer the usual Underground River tours via a motorized boat. Whichever tour you prefer, expect a marvelous time at the Underground River of Puerto Princesa. 

Explore the Wonders of Puerto Princesa

Puerto Princesa is a natural marvel of a destination itself. No wonder it remains one of the main tourist destinations of the Philippines because of the countless gems it has to offer to travelers.

Puerto Princesa offers vacations with a laid-back vibe, endless stretch of beautiful countryside, powdery white sandy beaches, thriving gastronomic scene, and a fascinating set of historical and cultural sites. Filliping up your Puerto Princesa itinerary will be easy with the many wonderful places to visit and activities to do.

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Top 25 PUERTO PRINCESA Tourist Spots to Visit & Things to Do

Any conversation about Palawan is awfully incomplete without a mention of Puerto Princesa, its capital and only city. Adventurers and beach bums flock to the towering karst cliffs of El Nido. Divers and nature lovers are drawn to the lakes of Coron. But long before they made a mark on Palawan’s tourism map, Puerto Princesa was already giving tourists of all types a little taste of what the province has to offer.

Located in the middle of mainland Palawan, Puerto Princesa serves as the largest and the most convenient gateway to the province. Although a highly urbanized city, it retains its natural beauty and has been consistently among the cleanest and greenest cities in the country, something that any traveler would immediately notice within minutes of their arrival. It’s no wonder it’s also touted as the Eco-Tourism Center of the Philippines.

But it’s not always butterflies and unicorns for the city’s tourism over the past years. Like in many destinations around the world, the pandemic presented a number of challenges. Then, in 2021, the province was ravaged by Typhoon Odette (international name: Rai), leaving almost P8 billion in damages. But recently, not even a year after, we were invited to join a recent tour organized by the Department of Tourism (DOT)-MIMAROPA. We got to see for ourselves what it’s like to travel around Puerto Princesa now. In this article, we’re sharing with you a list of tourist attractions in the city (not in any particular order) and what it’s like today.

Note: Puerto Princesa is huge! In fact, it is the second largest city in the Philippines by land area, next to Davao. You’ll find places on this list that may be one or two hours away from the city center, but they are still part of Puerto Princesa.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

Puerto Princesa Underground River

Officially named Puerto Princesa Subterranean River but sometimes simply called PPUR, this 8.2-km-long underground river is the city’s main tourism draw. This natural wonder which was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 and as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature in 2012.

Tucked in the northern nooks 76 km away from the city proper, it can be reached after around one and a half to two hours of land travel. The tour’s jump-off point is Sabang Wharf, and only a limited number of visitors are allowed per day. Tourists are required to register in advance if they want to visit. To avoid dealing with this process, it is best to book a packaged tour with a tour operator so they can register on your behalf. Packaged tours usually include roundtrip land and boat transfers, audio guide for the underground river tour, and buffet lunch.

Another great thing about booking with a tour operator is in case of inclement weather, you won’t have to spend time traveling to Sabang only to find out that the tours have been canceled for the day. In case this happens, they can also make arrangements to move your scheduled tour to the following day.

You may also book your Puerto Princesa Underground River tour package via Klook.

✅ RESERVE A SLOT HERE!

Cacaoyan Forest Park

Only a few minutes away from Sabang Wharf, Cacaoayan Forest Park is an awesome lunch stop after your Puerto Princesa Underground River tour. True to its name, being here will make you feel like you’re in the middle of a forest. You will also find a nice view deck here along with Instagram-worthy spots reminiscent of those in Bali.

Their lunch buffet offers a variety of Filipino dishes from fish to pork to chicken to vegetables and fresh fruits. If you’re interested in trying tamilok , the popular exotic mollusk, you can also order it here. Reservations are required for the lunch buffet, but some tour operators include a stop here in their underground river tour packages.

Buffet rate is P350 per person. But discounts are available if you book with Klook!

✅ GET DISCOUNTS HERE!

Location: Brgy. Sabang, Puerto Princesa Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM Buffet Rate: P350/person

Sabang X Zipline

Sabang Beach may be known primarily as the jump-off point to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, but it is also an attraction on its own. This stunning beach with the backdrop of the mountains is a nice place to swim and relax. From here, you can also see the stunning St. Paul Limestone formation where the underground river is flowing underneath.

If you’re in for more adventure, another activity you can do here is the Sabang X Zipline. This thrilling ride will treat you to the stunning view of Sabang Beach and its surrounding area from above. Measuring 800 meters, it is among the country’s longest ziplines that cross a body of water. To reach the starting point of the ride, you need to go on a short 15-minute hike.

Tickets cost P550. But you’ll find discounted tickets on Klook!

✅ GET DISCOUNTED TICKET HERE!

Honda Bay Tour

Island hopping is one of the most common activities in many destinations in the Philippines, and Puerto Princesa isn’t to be left out. Here, beach chasers go to Honda Bay , which isn’t too far from the city center.

Honda Bay is peppered with several isles, but island hopping tours usually include just three stops. If you’re a DIY-er and you’re joining a group tour, those three islands will be fixed. But if you want more flexibility or if you’re a big group, you may book a boat and arrange a private tour.

The jump-off point is Sta. Lourdes Wharf, roughly 30 minutes away from the city proper by tricycle. One-way fare is around P400-500 per tricycle.

At present, only 3 islands are open for public island hopping tours:

Cowrie Island

Luli island, starfish island.

Boat rates vary depending on the type used. Here are the latest rates, good for 6 passengers.

• with 4-cylinder engine: P2100 per boat or P350 per person
• with 3-cylinder engine: P1800 per boat or P300 per person

Aside from boat rental fee, you also need to pay the ENTRANCE FEES:

• Cowrie Island: P100
• Luli Island: P70
• Starfish Island: P50

Other islands may be accessible, but most of them are private and collect much higher entrance fees. We’ll discuss them in detail below.

Here are other expenses to expect if you’re doing a Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour:

• Environmental Fee: P150
• Terminal fee: P5
• Goggles & snorkel rental: P150
• Full face mask rental: P200
• Aqua shoes rental : P150
• Fins rental: P150

If you don’t want to deal with all these payments on your own, you may book a tour package offered by travel agencies. Honday Bay tours usually cost P1750/person , inclusive of lunch, entrance fees, boat rental, tour guide, and roundtrip transfers.

It’s also available on Klook with a slight discount!

Below are more detailed description of each island.

Of all the islands dotting Honda Bay, Cowrie Island is the closest to Sta. Lourdes Wharf, making it an ideal first or last stop. If you book a packaged tour, Cowrie Island is also the usual lunch stop. You can also order drinks from their bar and restaurant. For individual meals, the food is served in bilao (winnowing basket tray). For groups, it’s served boodle-fight-style.

While waiting for lunch to be served, you can enjoy swimming in the clear waters, walk along the beach or just lay on the sand. Kayaks and stand-up paddle board are available for rent. And if you’re with a group and you like playing sports, they have an area for beach volleyball too!

Entrance Fee: P100 Cottage Rental: Round Table (good for 4 pax) – P100; Round Table (good for 8 pax)- P200; Kubo (good for 15-20 pax)- P500 Kayak: Single, P100/hour; Double, P200/hour; Triple, P250/hour

Honda Bay is adorned with a number of sandbars. One of them is Luli Island, short for lulubog lilitaw , a playful shoutout to its disappearing act at high tide.

In the past, it was the usual lunch stop. But the buffet restaurant here was destroyed by Typhoon Odette and has not been rebuilt since. There’s still plenty to enjoy here, though. The beauty of the sandbar itself remains. You can still enjoy walking on the sand, take photos, or chill on one of their many overwater hammocks. The water is crystal clear too so you can see little fish swimming around as you go into the water.

Entrance Fee: P70

Around 25 minutes away from the wharf, Starfish Island is the snorkeling stop on Honda Bay tours. It got its name from numerous starfish that call its clear, shallow waters home. Even if you don’t know how to swim, you can still see the small fish and other marine animals frolicking around.

Keep in mind that there is a designated swimming and snorkeling area marked by a line so make sure to stay within that area for your safety.

You will find many tables and chairs and even cottages for rent here. If you’re hungry, there’s a small store on the island where you can buy snacks. Seafood “paluto” is also available. You can buy seafood — crabs, lobsters, fish, sea urchin or uni, and rang-ranga (spider shell) — and have them cooked.

Entrance Fee: P50 Cottage Rental: Kubo, P150; 2 tables (for big groups), P300

Pambato Reef

Unlike the other Honda Bay tour stops, Pambato Reef is not an island. It is a popular snorkeling spot, marked by a platform floating in the middle of the ocean. Before jumping into the water, tourists are given a short lecture about marine and reef ecology and conservation.

However, this too was heavily damaged by Typhoon Odette and remains closed to this day. But once Pambato Reef reopens, don’t miss out an opportunity to explore one of Puerto Princesa’s most visited underwater site!

Isla Pandan

As of this writing, Pandan Island remains closed and has yet to announce when they would reopen.

One of the more developed islands in Honda Bay, Pandan Island is now occupied by a private resort, Isla Pandan . It is not among the usual stops of the common three-island or two-island tours.

It has an incredible, cream-colored beach and clear emerald waters where you can swim, snorkel, or just bask in the sun. A buffet lunch is also available on the island as well as cottages and different water sports and beach activities. You can go kayaking, stand-up paddling, jetskiing, and banana boating if you’re into water activities or play volleyball and frisbee on the beach. You can also go snorkeling, diving, or helmet diving.

Their day tour rate is inclusive of the entrance fee, cottage, buffet lunch, and use of kayak, stand-up paddle, volleyball, frisbee, and board games.

Day Tour Rate: P1000/person

Dos Palmas Island Resort

Situated in Arreceffi Island, Dos Palmas is an island resort and spa perfect for those who want to have a luxurious island vacation. Their accommodations are right by the beach, facing the tuquoise waters.

If you’re on a limited budget, you can have a taste of the luxury island experience by going on a day tour. You can explore the 20-hectare island and the amenities of the resort. Aside from spending time on the beach, day trippers can take a dip on the swimming pool, play volleyball, or go snorkeling.

Day Tour Rates: Adult, P1800; Child (2-11 years old), P900 *Day tour rates are inclusive of land and boat transfers and lunch. For reservations & inquiries, you may contact the management. Email: [email protected], [email protected] Mobile Number: 09175904442 / 09175000154 / 09298132360

Puerto Princesa City Tour

Aside from its natural beauty, you can appreciate more of Puerto Princesa by exploring the city and learning about its history by going on a city tour. Don’t leave without buying souvenirs and pasalubong from Binuatan Creations, Baker’s Hill, and pasalubong center.

You can charter a tricycle to take you to the different cultural and historical spots for P800-1000 per tricycle, good for up to 3 passengers.

But if you want a more comfortable and more insightful tour led by a knowledgeable guide, book an organized tour! Klook also has affordable Puerto Princesa city tours!

Although there are some variations, here are the usual stops included in city tours.

Palawan Wildlife Rescue & Conservation Center

Previously known as the Crocodile Farming Institute or Crocodile Farm , the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center is a 10-hectare property where they breed two species of crocodiles, the Philippine crocodile ( Crocodylus mindorensis ) and the saltwater crocodile ( Crocodylus porosus ).

Every 15 minutes, an educational tour is done, which starts by the entrance where the skeleton and skin of a giant crocodile are on display. After that, you will be led to the nursery of the baby crocodiles and then to the area where the adult crocodiles are kept. Don’t worry, you’ll be walking on an elevated walkway, out of reach.

A portion of the property is a nature park where the rescued wildlife are housed. You’ll also see various species of rare birds here and a variety of wild fauna.

Opening hours: Daily, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM Entrance Fee: P70

Mitra’s Ranch

Mitra’s Ranch is owned by the family of the late Senator and House Speaker Ramon Mitra Jr. Located in Barangay Sta. Monica, the house sits atop a hill and has a view deck, allowing a good, relaxing view of the city, Honda Bay, and the verdant scenery in between.

Mitra’s Ranch is open to the public. You only need to pay the entrance fee if you want to go inside the house.

Operating Hours: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM Entrance Fee (to enter the house): P20

Bakers’ Hill

Not too far away from Mitra’s Ranch, also in Barangay Sta. Monica, stands Baker’s Hill .

Baker’s Hill is a simple bakery that evolved into a family destination. When you pass through the gate, you’ll be greeted by large, colorful statues of popular characters, adding life to the gardens and playground surrounding the bakeshop. The site is also dressed in various decorations, the theme of which change depending on the time of the year.

Most tourists who come here go pasalubong shopping. You can buy different baked goods like cookies, brownies, and of course, their popular hopia in different flavors. They also sell other snacks like cashew nuts, polvoron, and pastillas. If you’re looking for more than just snacks, you can dine at their restaurant called Baker’s Kitchen .

Operating Hours: 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Binuatan Creations

Weaving is a huge part of the culture and arts in many parts of the Philippines. Here in Puerto Princesa, handloom weaving is showcased at Binuatan Creations . It also serves as a livelihood program to the community especially mothers and students.

Watch how the skilled weavers make colorful fabrics out of local fibers like buri , ticug grass, and amumuting . These fabrics are then made into different hand-loomed products like bags, accessories, placemats, and table runners. To get more appreciation on how intricate it is, visitors are welcome to try their hand on the process. The weavers would happily guide you as they explain how to use the loom.

After this experience, drop by the souvenir shop to buy some of their products for yourself and for pasalubong to your friends and family!

Operating Hours: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Plaza Cuartel

Plaza Cuartel looks like your ordinary park lined with benches and trees today, but it has a gruesome past. On 14 December 1944, at the height of World War II, 150 American prisoners of war were burned alive by the Japanese in a garrison that stood at the site of where Plaza Cuartel is located today.

Tunnels where the prisoners where kept and the ruins of the old garrison are kept as a reminder of this dark moment in the city’s history. A memorial marker is also installed to commemorate the soldiers who died during the massacre and recognize the 11 who survived.

Puerto Princesa Cathedral

Adjacent to Plaza Cuartel stands Puerto Princesa Cathedral, also known as the Immaculate Conception Cathedral Parish. At the site where it stands, the first mass in Puerto Princesa was held on March 10, 1872 by Saint Ezequiél Moreno who was then an Augustinian Recollect Fray.

The cathedral has been rebuilt a few times including after it was destroyed by Japanese bombing during World War II. The structure that you see today took almost a century to finish and was only completed in 1961. Its facade and interiors are clad in Neo-Gothic architectural style, similar to the churches in Medieval Europe.

Palawan Butterfly Garden and Tribal Village

As the name suggests, there are two parts to this attraction: the butterfly garden and the tribal village. The butterfly garden houses a number of species of butterflies that you can see flying around inside the net-covered garden.

Apart from these beautiful flying creatures, you can also see some endemic wildlife of Palawan here like the Palawan Bearcat, bearded pig, and Palawan peacock-pheasant which is the bird that appears on the official seal of the city of Puerto Princesa. These species are smaller in size, but similar to the peacocks, the male has colorful feathers and vibrant wings that shows when they spread it, usually to attract peahens or the female birds.

At the Tribal Village, you’ll get a peek into the life of the indigenous people of South Palawan called Palaw’an. Here, visitors are treated to a cultural show where they would see how the Palaw’an tribe traditionally lives in the mountains. The Palaw’ans demonstrate how they hunt, make fire, and perform a short musical number using a string instrument called kudyapi. There’s also a little cafe here where you can try civet coffe or kopi luwak.

Operating Hours: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM Entrance Fee: Adult, P60; Child (4 to 12 years old), P50; Senior Citizen & PWD, P50

Astoria Palawan Water Park

If you’re traveling to Puerto Princesa with kids and kids at heart, Palawan Water Park got you covered. You can enjoy sliding down the water slides with your friends and family or splash around in their pools.

The first and only water park in Palawan, it is owned and managed by Astoria, but it is open to everyone and NOT exclusive to Astoria’s hotel guests.

Each ticket to the water park is inclusive of a lunch buffet.

Entrance Fee: Adults, P1200; Kids (4ft and below), P950; Kids (2 years old and below), FREE Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Ugong Rock Adventures

Adventure awaits north of the city proper! In Barangay Tagabinet, you will find one of the most thrilling attractions in Puerto Princesa —- Ugong Rock Adventures, a community-based sustainable tourism destination.

Be ready to get physical because you will be climbing Ugong Rock and go rappelling and spelunking on its caves. Reaching the top would reward you with a panoramic view of the forest and the surrounding limestone formations. After taking in the views, you won’t be climbing back down because the descent is by riding a 71-meter zipline!

✅ RESERVE A TICKET HERE!

Nagtabon Beach

While Puerto Princesa beaches are synonymous with the islands of Honda Bay, you’ll also find several coves that can be accessed by land. One of them is Nagtabon Beach .

Nagtabon Beach is situated less than an hour away from the city center, so it’s somewhat detached and not usually included in usual Puerto Princesa itineraries. It used to be a sanctuary for those who want to escape the crowds, but it has been getting the attention of more tourists. Those who visit are welcomed by a picturesque view of the mountains and cerulean waters.

A few years ago, there are only a few cottages available for rent here, but there are now resorts and restaurants in the area.

Location: Barangay Bacungn, Puerto Princesa How to get there: From the city center, take a bus going north (Taytay/Roxas/El Nido) to Bacungan. Then, charter a tricycle to Nagtabon Beach. If you’re a group, renting a van for a roundtrip transportation is an option too.

Firefly Watching

If you want something a bit more offbeat, try firefly watching and get that magical feeling! Even if you already planned out your activities in Puerto Princesa, you can probably squeeze this into your itinerary since this tour happens at night. When you join a firefly watching tour, you would hop on a boat and go out into the water where you could feast your eyes with the blinking lights from the fireflies and the twinkling of the stars in the sky.

There are three different firefly watching locations in Puerto Princesa:

• Iwahig River. This is the original location of firefly watching in Puerto Princesa. Using a paddle boat, you would cruise along Iwahig River as your boat man and tour guide show you the fireflies. Unfortunately, Iwahig firefly watching is currenly closed , but worry not because there are other firefly watching spots in Puerto Princesa.
• Sicsican River. This is where we went firefly watching on our recent trip. The city’s baywalk area serves as the jump-off point for this tour. From here, you would hop on a boat and then transfer to a smaller boat, which would take you to Sicsican River where fireflies abound. Tour guides make the firefly watching activity entertaining by “talking” to the fireflies in different languages. The tour includes a delicious dinner on the boat, which we enjoyed after cruising on the river and seeing the fireflies that look like Christmas lights by the side of the river.
• Nagsaguipi River. This tour includes a buffet dinner at a restaurant just before you start your firefly watching adventure. After making your stomachs full, you’ll get on a paddle boat and sail on Nagsaguipi River where you’ll see the fireflies glow by the mangrove trees.

✅ JOIN THIS NAGSAGUIPI TOUR!

Mt. Magarwak Sunrise Trek

With a height of 350 meters, Mt. Magarwak is a nice place to visit if you want to see Puerto Princesa from above. The trek to the top of this mountain is suitable even for beginners and takes around an hour and a half, depending on the pace. It is best to start trekking early in the morning around 5:00 AM so you can reach the top before sunrise. Once you get to the top, you can relax, have some coffee and wait for the spectacular sunrise over Puerto Princesa. From the peak, you can also admire Honda Bay and Puerto Princesa Bay.

Mt. Magarwak is located in Brgy. Bacungan, about 15 kilometers from the city center.

✅ BOOK THIS TOUR!

Kamia Bay Resort

Kamia Bay Resort lies in Brgy. Luzviminda, less than an hour away south of the city center. The waterpark covers about 4 hectares of the property in Binusalian Bay and features one of the largest inflatable parks in the country. Guests of all ages can enjoy bouncing around and going down the slide of different heights or try wall climbing on the inflatables.

Other activities offered here are eco-tours and bike trails. The resort also has a buffet and lots of areas where you can chill whether you’re family, friends, or your special someone.

Note: We’re not sure if Kamia Bay Resort is closed or open. We didn’t get to visit on our recent trip, so we couldn’t confirm. But their social media accounts have been inactive since 2021.

Viet Village

In 1979, after the fall of South Vietnam, a number of Vietnamese refugees found themselves in Palawan and set up a camp. In 1993, the camp was moved to Barangay Sta. Lourdes. Over the years, some have left and returned to Vietnam but some chose to stay.

Today, this community in Puerto Princesa is called Viet Ville . History buffs will surely find a visit here quite interesting. You can also have a taste of the Vietnamese cuisine at the restaurant here that bears the same name. Viet Ville restaurant serves pho, banh mi, and Vietnamese coffee, among others.

Ask anyone in Puerto Princesa where they suggest a first-time tourist should go for a meal, and there’s a big chance they will point you to Ka Lui .

KaLui is perhaps the most well-known Pinoy restaurant in Puerto Princesa. Fostering a homey Pinoy atmosphere, it is with wooden furniture, ceramic pieces, and paintings. Ka Lui serves mostly Filipino seafood specialties. They also give a complimentary fruit salad served on a halved coconut.

This restaurant is extremely popular so it is highly recommended that you make prior reservation to secure a table.

Address: 369 Rizal Avenue, Puerto Princesa Opening hours: Mondays-Saturdays, 11AM-2PM (Lunch), 6PM-11PM (Dinner) Contact number: (048) 726-6217

This isn’t somewhere to go to but something to enjoy! Er, only if you’re an adventurous eater.

Indulging in local food is always a great part of any travel. If exotic food doesn’t faze you, don’t miss out on Palawan’s delicacy —- tamilok! It’s often referred to as a woodworm because it is found inside mangroves. But it is, in fact, a type of marine mollusk with long and soft bodies. Yep, a distant cousin of oysters and mussels! Its taste profile and slimy texture are comparable to the more common bivalves too, albeit with a strong woody aftertaste.

When in Puerto Princesa, you can try this unconventional treat at some restaurants in the city. I was able to try tamilok when we had lunch in Cacaoyan Forest Park in Sabang. They serve it with a side of vinegar where you can dip it before savoring it.

Another restaurant that offers it is Kinabuch’s Grill and Bar located within the city center, where our teammate Yosh had his first taste of it.

Top Puerto Princesa Resorts

• Astoria Palawan Resort . Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Aziza Paradise Hotel . Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Citystate Asturias Hotel . Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Daluyon Beach and Mountain Resort , Sabang Beach. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Hue Hotels and Resorts . Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Princesa Garden Island Resort and Spa . Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Search for more Puerto Princesa Hotels!

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

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Joan's Footprints

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2024 Complete Guide to Puerto Princesa DIY Itinerary & Budget: Everything You Need to Know

Before anything else, I’d like to say thank you to DOT MIMAROPA for giving me the chance to explore Puerto Princesa. This travel guide aims to create a promotional content for this lovely Province. Joana Paola Gutierrez | Joan’s Footprints

The largest island province in the Philippines never fails to amaze us. Coron and El Nido being in the North and Balabac in the South, and guess what ? I think we’ve got it all covered in the middle part too! Puerto Princesa doesn’t just open gateways to the North and South, it is also home to amazing destinations like Honda Bay , UNESCO World Heritage Underground River , stunning beaches and other thrilling activities!

Puerto Princesa presents more of the history and indigenous culture of the Palaw’ans . You’ll get the chance to understand Palawan, learn more about the ethnic tribes, and get to know about the culture through just by trying their local food.

Yes, Palawan is definitely not just about its amazing beaches. It gives us the chance to dive in to its colorful culture and traditions.

Table of Contents

HELPFUL LINKS

Related travel guides.

• WHERE TO EAT & MUST TRY FOOD IN PUERTO PRINCESA
• HONDA BAY DIY TRAVEL GUIDE (BUDGET & ITINERARY)

Search For Discounted Flights to PPS

• BOOK CHEAP FLIGHTS HERE

Hotel Accommodations on Agoda

• SEARCH FOR HOTEL DEALS AROUND PUERTO PRINCESA HERE

Discounted Tours & Airport Transfers Via Klook

• BOOK SHARED AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION HERE
• BOOK DISCOUNTED CITY TOUR VIA KLOOK HERE
• DISCOUNTED FIREFLY WATCHING VIA KLOOK HERE
• BOOK DISCOUNTED HONDA BAY ISLAND HOPPING TOUR VIA KLOOK
• BOOK DISCOUNTED UNDERGROUND RIVER TOUR HERE

About Puerto Princesa, Palawan

Puerto Princesa is the capital of the island province of Palawan . The city has been awarded several times as the cleanest and greenest city in the Philippines. Although the predominant language is Tagalog , Cuyonon is widely spoken and used throughout the whole city, as well as Hiligaynon and other Visayan languages. Moreover, English is also widely spoken in the City.

The main mode of transportation in the City includes public tricycles, multicabs , buses and vans. Although Palawan is an all year-round destination, the best time to go here is still during summer season. The months of March-May would be the best choice for that.

How to get to Puerto Princesa?

The airport to get here will be Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS). There are daily flights offered by low-cost airlines like AirAsia, Cebu Pacific, AirSwift and Philippines Airlines. Subsequently, outside the airport there are public transportations like tricycles and multicabs going to the town proper. You may opt to ride public transportation or book a Shared Airport Transfer via Klook.

• BOOK CHEAP FLIGHTS HERE PHP2,800.00 ROUNDTRIP FLIGHT
• BOOK AIRPORT TRANSFER HERE PHP400.00 ONE WAY

Where to Stay in Puerto Princesa?

Deciding where to stay won’t be a problem. There are lots of hotels around the city to choose from. Below are some of my recommended hotels depending on your budget:

For budget travelers , below are homestays/inns available in the City:

• CASAORO HOMESTAY – PHP470.00/NIGHT GOOD FOR 2

• GRANDMAS HOUSE HOMESTAY – PHP299.00/NIGHT GOOD FOR 2

If you have a budget on hotel rooms, I highly recommend Aziza Paradise Hotel. This is where I stayed for 4 nights, amenities includes a large lobby, swimming pool, wifi, bar and restaurant. It is also located about 2-3 minutes away from the Airport.

• AZIZA PARADISE HOTEL – PHP3,000.00/NIGHT GOOD FOR 2

• HUE HOTEL AND RESORT – PHP3,000.00/NIGHT GOOD FOR 2

Hue Hotel is also one of my recommended hotels around the City. Aside from it is located 2-3 minutes away from the airport, they have lots of room availabilities, amenities like swimming pool, bar, lounge, spa, restaurant and free airport transfers too. It is also walking distance from Robinsons Mall and other restaurants.

• PRINCESA GARDEN ISLAND RESORT AND SPA – PHP6,500.00/NIGHT GOOD FOR 2

Lastly, this is the resort I recommend if you want a luxurious place to stay. Rated with 5 stars, this high-quality property provides guests with access to restaurant and outdoor pool on-site.

Where to Eat in Puerto Princesa?

I created a separate article about what to try/eat and best restaurants around the town, click the link below! Furthermore, my first recommended restaurant would be at Kalui ‘s! This restaurant is one of the busiest and most popular in the City. An advance reservation is highly recommended to get a table here.

Another is the Kinabuch ‘s, this restaurant is also famous for serving a local exotic food tamilok . Get to know more about this exotic food by clicking the link below.

READ SEPARATE ARTICLE HERE: MUST TRY FOOD/RESTAURANTS IN PUERTO PRINCESA

3 Days Puerto Princesa DIY Itinerary & Budget + Places to Visit

This Puerto Princesa DIY Itinerary is assuming that you are taking the earliest flight to PPS and a late flight on the last day.

DAY 1: CITY TOUR + BAYWALK FIREFLY WATCHING

The best way to start your Puerto Princesa trip is to do a City Tour. It’s like your warm up exercise before going to the most exciting part. Puerto Princesa is more than just the famous underground river and its beautiful beaches, it’s also a place filled with amazing cultural spots that are vital to every tourist’s visit. Below are the places to visit for a whole day City Tour.

Binuatan Creation Weaving Loom Center

You’ll be able to see and even try making handloom woven products and items made from indigenous fibers. There is also a store where you can buy these handloom woven products which is also a good idea for souvenirs. Entrance Fee: Free entrance Operating Hours: 7am-6pm

Butterfly Garden & Tribal Village

Showcases a sheer variety of butterflies. Other animals can be see here too like the Palawan Peacock and Palawan Bearcat. To get there, by tricycle from the airport or from the city proper – Php 300.00 good for three (3) persons or take the jeepney or multicab bound to Sta. Monica along national highway Php16.00 / person. Entrance Fee: Php60.00; Children/PWD/Senior Citizen is Php50.00) Operating Hours: 8:30am-5pm How to get there: Take the jeepney or multicab bound to Sta. Monica along national highway Php16.00 / person.

Palawan Wildlife Rescue & Conservation Center

Or better known as Crocodile Farm. The center is a breeding place for Philippine crocodiles as well as home to a few endangered animals. You’ll not only be able to observe freshwater and saltwater crocodiles, you also get to pet some baby crocs too! Entrance Fee: Php40.00 Operating Hours: 8am-5pm How to get there: Take the jeepney or multicab bound to Sta Monica along national highway Php16.00 / person.

Mitra’s Ranch

Gives you a spectacular panoramic hilltop view of Puerto Princesa.  Entrance Fee: Free entrance Operating Hours: 6am-6pm How to get there: Take the jeepney or multicab bound to Sta Monica along national highway Php16.00 / person.

Baker’s Hill

A famous bakery for its sweet delicacies, with everything from cashew nuts, hopia , brownies, and more local delicacies that are perfect for snacking and bringing home as souvenirs.  Entrance Fee: Free entrance Operating Hours: 7am-8pm How to get there: Take the jeepney or multicab bound to Sta Monica along national highway Php16.00 / person. Near Mitra Ranch.

Amaza Pearls & Souvenir Shop

Here you can score cheap fresh water pearls/earings for as low as Php15.00/pair! This is the best place to buy all you souvenirs too.

Baywalk Firefly Watching

An amazing natural wonder in Puerto Princesa. This tour will give you a breathtaking experience of watching them closely as they glow together in clusters. Definitely a satisfying 20-30 minutes trip of watching them in pitch darkness with only the stars above you and the amazing fireflies by the trees.

Do this in the morning: BOOK DISCOUNTED CITY TOUR VIA KLOOK HERE : PHP600.00/PAX

Do this in the evening: BOOK DISCOUNTED FIREFLY WATCHING VIA KLOOK HERE

DAY 2: HONDA BAY ISLAND HOPPING

Honda Bay island hopping is the most popular island hopping trip when in Puerto Princesa. It has about 11 islands in total but a day tour would recommend visiting 3 islands. The top 3 most visited islands would be (1) Starfish Island, (2) Luli Island and (3) Cowrie Island.

How to get to Honda Bay? To get here the DIY way, proceed to  Mendoza Park  and ride  multicabs  with  Sta Lordes Honda Bay  signage. These multicabs will go directly to the wharf where you can rent a boat for Honda Bay island hopping. In addition, it also passes by Robinsons Mall and Hue Hotel which makes it more convenient if you will be staying anywhere near that area.

Environmental fee is Php150.00/pax and terminal fee is Php5.00/pax only. Refer to the photo below for updated boat rental rates . Important note: cut-off time of island hopping is at 2:30pm.

There are snorkeling gears available for rent at the registration area. I highly recommend renting your snorkeling gears here rather than renting gears on each island you will visit which will definitely cost you more. But if you have your own gears, might as well just bring it with you.

• Starfish Island – entrance fee Php50.00/pax
• Luli Island – entrance fee Php70.00/pax
• Cowrie Island – entrance fee Php100.00/pax

READ SEPARATE ARTICLE HERE: 2023 HONDAY BAY DIY TRAVEL GUIDE

For hassle-free tour with hotel pick up and drop off service: BOOK DISCOUNTED HONDA BAY ISLAND HOPPING TOUR VIA KLOOK

DAY 3: UNDERGROUND RIVER

You’ve never really been to Puerto Princesa if you didn’t go to the UNESCO World Heritage Underground River. A tour to the subterranean river will take up a whole day, considering the 2 hours travel from Puerto Princesa City to Sabang, a 20 minute boat ride and the actual Underground River tour itself.

Upon reaching the start of the Underground River tour, there will be an assigned boatman for each group. The boatman will serve as your tour guide as well. Take note that this is an audio tour so they will provide you a single ear piece where you can listen to an audio about the cave.

Don’t forget to bring along dry bag with extra clothes, towel, flip flops, water bottle, insect repellent, sunscreen and cash in local currency.

How to go to the Underground River DIY way?

Step 1: Charter a tricycle and head to the San Jose Terminal which is located in San Jose Public Market. Step 2: There are jeepneys, ordinary buses and van going to Sabang Port. Advise the driver that you are going to the Underground River. Fare ranges from Php200.00-300.00 depending on what mode of transportation you will choose from and the travel time is 2-3 hours. Step 3: From the Sabang Port, go to the information center and register.

Underground River Expenses (DIY Expenses)

• Php735.00/person registration fee (Entrance fee Php500.00; Environmental fee Php150.00; Audio device Php85.00)
• Boat rental fee is Php1,100.00 good for 6 person

For hassle-free tour with hotel pick up and drop off: BOOK DISCOUNTED UNDERGROUND RIVER TOUR HERE PHP1,900.00/pax

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Puerto Princesa City Tour

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Booking notes.

Puerto Princesa City is a popular tourist destination located on the eastern coast of Palawan Island in the Philippines. It is known for its stunning natural attractions, including the famous Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is also home to beautiful beaches, lush forests, and diverse wildlife, making it a haven for nature lovers. In addition to its natural wonders, Puerto Princesa City also offers a range of cultural and historical sites, such as the Immaculate Conception Cathedral and Plaza Cuartel. The city’s vibrant food scene and friendly locals add to its charm and appeal.

Puerto Princesa City tour is a great way to start your vacation in Palawan, as it provides a perfect introduction to the city’s highlights.

Meet at the hotel and depart for a 3-hour sightseeing tour of Puerto Princesa city. Drive along Rizal Avenue and pass by the City Hall and Baywalk. Visit the Immaculate Conception Cathedral and the Plaza Cuartel, a restored ruin of a Japanese military base built during World War II. Next, head to the St. Monica area, where you can visit either the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center (formerly known as Crocodile Farm) or the Palawan Butterfly Garden. After that, continue on to Mitra’s Ranch for a panoramic view of Puerto Princesa, and then visit Baker’s Hill to enjoy the beautiful garden landscape and taste some local delicacies. Finally, return to your hotel after the tour.

• Immaculate Conception Cathedral: Located in the heart of Puerto Princesa, this beautiful Catholic cathedral is known for its impressive architecture and peaceful ambiance. Plaza Cuartel: Once a World War II garrison, this historic site has been transformed into a public park and memorial to honor the soldiers who lost their lives during the war. Palawan Rescue and Conservation Centre: This center is dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of endangered species, particularly the Philippine crocodile and other native animals. Butterfly Farm: A lovely attraction that allows visitors to learn about different species of butterflies and their life cycles, all while walking through a beautiful garden filled with colorful flowers. Baker’s Hill: A popular tourist destination known for its delicious baked goods and picturesque surroundings. Visitors can enjoy a variety of sweet treats while strolling through the hill's beautifully landscaped gardens.
• Hotel pick up / drop off Sightseeing and Activities as per the itinerary Entry Fees English speaking guide

Last minute booking

All last-minute bookings (made on the same day or 3 days before the tour) must be made by phone or email only.

From: ₱  785.00

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13 Amazing Activities For A Puerto Princesa Itinerary: Visiting Palawan With Kids

What’s a memorable way to experience the Philippines? How about a trip to the island of Palawan with kids and visiting the city of Puerto Princesa! A Puerto Princesa itinerary is the perfect way to pack in cultural immersion and adventure into your trip to the Philippines.

We visited the Philippines in January and February 2020, after a quick trip exploring all the budget-friendly things to do in Singapore .

Now I want to share with you all the fun things we did in Puerto Princesa city, and help you get ideas for your own trip to Palawan with kids. Take a read through all of the activities we did, as you get ready for your own Puerto Princesa itinerary.

This post was updated on March 11, 2023.

This post may contain affiliate links. That means I may receive a small commission if you click on the link and purchase something. But don't worry, this will not result in any extra costs to you.

Table of Contents

Spending time in Palawan with kids and creating a fun Puerto Princesa itinerary

If you know us, you know that we prefer being a slow travel family , where we spend at least a month at a time in a destination. But during our time in the Philippines, we ended up traveling quite fast, as we were traveling with my in-laws.

Our time in the Philippines was packed with visits to new cities every few days. In the two months we were there, we spent time on the Island of Luzon visiting Manila, the city of Olongapo in Subic Bay, and the province of Cavite. We also visited the Romblon Islands. And of course we enjoyed an activity-packed Puerto Princesa itinerary while visiting the island of Palawan with kids. 

Fortunately, we were able to squeeze in a couple of weeks in the city of Puerto Princesa. We spent our two weeks in Palawan with kids discovering the many Puerto Princesa tourist spots in the city. And our family enjoyed slowing down our pace for a bit, if only for a couple of weeks.

Why Puerto Princesa is a tourist spot for families 

Palawan isn’t often a common spot for tourists to the Philippines. Most guidebooks, like the Lonely Planet Philippines guide book, often recommend that travelers visit the popular island of Boracay.

Or these guidebooks will recommend islands like Cebu or Davao. And even when tourists do visit Palawan, most will skip Puerto Princesa altogether and go directly to El Nido in the northern part of the island.

However, travelers miss out when they skip visiting Puerto Princesa. Located in the central part of Palawan, Puerto Princesa is an under-rated gem. The city has beautiful nature surrounding it and makes a great addition to any Philippines itinerary . There is also history and culture in Puerto Princesa, which is great for those wanting to understand the Philippines on a deeper level. And there are a few options for booking accommodations in Puerto Princesa, including hotels and Airbnb .

We stayed at an Airbnb while we were there. But if you’re looking for something comfortable and close to the city center, check out these highly rated hotels in Puerto Princesa for your family:

Canvas Boutique Hotel

Hotel Fleuris Palawan

Munting Paraiso

How to responsibly visit the tourist spots in Puerto Princesa Palawan

Over-tourism is a concern within the travel industry. That’s why it’s important to explore destinations besides the common tourist spots. While Puerto Princesa is far from being a remote destination, it’s certainly a less frequented destination compared to other island destinations in the Philippines. 

Travelers to Puerto Princesa can practice traveling responsibly in these simple ways:

Distribute your tourism dollars to local businesses

By visiting a place like Puerto Princesa you’re helping to distribute your tourism dollars more equitably throughout the Philippines! This is a great way to practice sustainable and responsible tourism . And you’re making your vacation more enjoyable by going somewhere that isn’t packed with tourists.

Other ways to travel responsibly while in Puerto Princesa is by supporting locally-owned (and if possible, women-owned) businesses, not buying products made from endangered animals, reuse items as much as possible, and trying to practice plastic-free travel.

Learn about the culture of the Philippines and Puerto Princesa

Take time to experience what everyday life is like in Puerto Princesa during your trip. This city has a population of around 255,000 people. Most people in the city work in the tourism industry, due to the city’s close proximity to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, also known as the Underground River. 

Before you come to the Philippines, get some books to help you prepare for experiencing Filipino culture. If you’re curious about Filipino food, we love the cookbook, 7000 Islands: A Food Portrait of the Philippines by Yasmin Newman. 

You can also read these books about Filipino culture with your kids, to get them prepared for your trip to the Philippines:

Salamat Po!: Learning About Showing Respect In The Filipino Culture

All About the Philippines: Stories, Songs, Crafts and Games for Kids

Filipino Children's Favorite Stories: Fables, Myths and Fairy Tales

Here’s a great book to learn some phrases in Tagalog, the Philippines’ national language:

Tagalog for Beginners: An Introduction to Filipino

Read these posts to learn more about how to travel responsibly with your kids.

How to get to Palawan with kids

The island of Palawan is located in the western part of the Philippines. It’s directly west of the islands of Panay and Negros. And it’s located southwest of the island of Luzon, where the city of Manila is located. Palawan is accessible by plane or by ferry boat.

Getting to Puerto Princesa by airplane

The only airport in the city is Puerto Princesa International Airport. This makes flying a convenient option if you’re planning a Puerto Princesa itinerary with your kids. 

Airlines like Air Asia and Cebu Pacific Air fly into Puerto Princesa from domestic destinations. Only one or two international destinations service the Puerto Princesa airport (from Hong Kong, Seoul, and Taipei).

How to get to Puerto Princesa by ferry

f you have a bit more time (and are feeling adventurous!), you can opt to take a ferry into Puerto Princesa from Manila. The Manila Puerto Princesa ferry travel time takes about 24 hours. The company I recommend is 2Go Travel . While we didn’t do the Manila Puerto Princesa ferry ride, we did take the 2Go Travel ferry from Manila to the Romblon Islands. The ferry is very clean and well maintained. 

Tourist class tickets for the Manila Puerto Princesa ferry vary in price, depending on the day and time. But they can cost around PHP 2,200 (roughly $40 USD) per person. The ticket includes a bunk in the main galley for sleeping. Alternatively, you can opt for a private cabin, which is around PHP 2,800 (roughly $56 USD).

Getting around to explore the Puerto Princesa tourist spots

Once in Puerto Princesa, you have a few options for getting around. Taxis in Puerto Princesa are only available at the airport. Otherwise, your transportation options are tricycles (motor scooters with a covered sidecar) or jeepneys (public buses in the Philippines).

Riding tricycles

The tricycles in Puerto Princesa can fit up to five passengers: four people in the sidecar, and one person on the scooter behind the driver. The cost ranges between PHP 60 to PHP 200 (roughly $1.20 to $4 USD), depending on the distance. 

One thing to note, there is a citywide tricycle ban on the National Highway, which means tricycles are not allowed to drive on the National Highway. They were not enforcing the ban when we were there, but it looks like the police will start cracking down on the ban and issuing tickets to tricycles. You can still catch tricycles around the city center.

Ready for a change? Take the first step to living a life of full time travel.

Taking a jeepney

Jeepneys are a more affordable option for getting to and from the spots on your Puerto Princesa itinerary. The main routes go along the National Highway, Rizal Avenue, and Malvar Street. Major stops are written on the outside of the jeepney, so get acquainted with the locations of major stops. That way, you’ll know which jeepney to get on. If in doubt, you can always ask the jeepney driver before getting onboard.

Costs of a jeepney ride range from PHP 15 to PHP 20 (roughly $0.30 to $0.40 USD) per person, depending on the distance. You pay the driver when you get on the jeepney. To get off the jeepney, just inform the driver when your stop approaches.

13 great ideas for a family-friendly Puerto Princesa itinerary

Our time in Puerto Princesa was packed with activities. We didn’t just visit the tourist spots in Puerto Princesa Palawan, either. Besides going snorkeling, we learned about history, experienced local culture, and even visited a UNESCO world heritage site!

Below is a Puerto Princesa itinerary that families can follow when visiting the city. It’s good for kids of all ages. Families with young kids can spend more time at the parks. And families with older kids can dive deeper into snorkeling and adventure activities, or spend more time at the museums.

1. Check out the Puerto Princesa tourist spots at Honda Bay

Honda Bay is located about thirty to forty-five minutes away from Puerto Princesa. The bay used to be popular for fishing. But now many of the fishermen have converted their boats into tour boats, taking tourists to the various islands scattered around the bay. If you’re into snorkeling, you can book Honda Bay island hopping tours for snorkeling. It’s one of the best places to visit in Puerto Princesa Palawan.

There are many companies in Puerto Princesa that offer these full day tours for your itinerary in Puerto Princesa. Our tour took us to Cowrie Island and Lilu Island, as well as a snorkeling spot just off the coast. Cost of the tours range between PHP 1,800 to PHP 2,200 per person, depending on the company you choose. Our tour included van transport, boat transport, and a buffet lunch. We rented snorkel gear separately.

If you want to pre-book a Palawan tourist spots Puerto Princesa tour in Honda Bay, you can do it here through Viator:

Puerto Princesa Island Hopping Tour in Honda Bay

2. Browse local produce and goods at the San Jose New Market

If you want to get a real glimpse into local life , spend a morning at a market. San Jose New Market, located in the San Jose neighborhood of northern Puerto Princesa, is a bustling hub of commerce.

San Jose New Market is clean and organized well. Market vendors sell fresh fish, as well as chicken and pork. There are also fruit and vegetable vendors selling local produce, as well as pantry staples such as eggs, rice, and oil.

Culturally immersive activities like this can be a great way to sneak in learning into your itinerary for Puerto Princesa. A visit to San Jose New Market can offer a great worldschooling lesson for your kids (anyone up for a social studies lesson?). 

3. Stroll through Chinatown and the Old Public Market

After visiting the New Market, head into town and visit the Old Public Market. Located in the heart of Puerto Princesa, next to the Chinatown neighborhood, the Old Public Market is also a hub of activity. 

Besides the usual produce and meat vendors, you’ll also find street carts selling grilled meat, steamed peanuts, and balut , a Filipino delicacy of steamed duck embryo. There are a few restaurants in nearby Chinatown, but most are a bit run down.

4. Support Puerto Princess’s deaf community with dinner at Ka Inato

If you’re looking for a dinner option, head over to Ka Inato. There are two locations of Ka Inato, one on Rizal Avenue, and one further north in San Jose, along the National Highway. This restaurant serves local seafood dishes, as well as grilled meats. The food is very tasty, and fairly inexpensive. It’s a great way to sample Puerto Princesa Filipino cuisine!

One of the things we loved about Ka Inato, though, is that many of the servers are deaf. We liked the restaurant because the deaf employees weren’t just relegated to busboy positions, they were actually interacting with diners. 

There are signs around the restaurant showing how to say phrases such as “thank you” and “all finished” in American Sign Language. We enjoyed being able to practice our ASL, and also supporting the deaf community in Puerto Princesa.

If you want to brush up on your ASL before visiting Ka Inato, you can check out the book, American Sign Language For Kids . Or you can watch this video of 20 ASL basic phrases .

5. Incorporate history into your Puerto Princesa itinerary

Part of traveling to a place is learning about its history. Palawan’s history spans from pre-colonial cultures, to World War II, and beyond. In your Puerto Princesa itinerary, build in some history-centered activities into your Puerto Princesa itinerary, and learn about significant moments of Palawan’s past.

Take a walk through the nearby Immaculate Conception Cathedral, built in the 1800’s. It’s open to the public, as long as there isn’t a service happening.

Also known as the Puerto Princesa Cathedral, this cathedral was built in 1872 and was near the site of the Palawan Massacre in 1944. This was an event that happened during World War II where around 150 American soldiers were burned by the Japanese forces.

6. Take a visit to the World War II Museum during your Puerto Princesa itinerary

The country of the Philippines played a pivotal role in World War II. In fact, it was the primary setting for the Pacific War, when Allied forces fought against the Japanese. Both the United States and Japan set up naval and air force bases throughout the Philippines. 

The World War II Museum gives a good overview of the role of the Philippines in World War II. While the Philippines did not yet have a formal army at the time of World War II, they did have guerilla forces who fought bravely against the Japanese. The museum honors these fighters. There are also rooms showcasing artifacts from the different countries who fought in World War II, including the United States, Japan, Germany, and Australia.

At the time of our visit, admission to the World War II Museum is PHP 30 (roughly $0.60 USD) for adults. Children aged 10 and under are free. The museum is open 8 am to 12 pm, and 1 pm to 5 pm everyday.

7. Learn about local culture and history at Palawan Museum

To get a lesson in local culture and history, head to the Palawan Museum. It’s located in central Puerto Princesa, just behind Mendoza Park. This small museum has displays about the indigenous groups found on the island of Palawan. You can see how their language is written, the tools they use, and which parts of the island they inhabit.

The Palawan Museum is open Mondays to Saturdays from 8:30 am to 12 pm, and 1:30 pm to 5 pm. Admission to the museum for non-Filipino nationals was PHP 60 (roughly $1.20 USD) for adults and PHP 10 (roughly $0.20 USD) for kids when we were there. Nationals pay PHP 50 (roughly $1) per person.

8. Pay homage to the victims of the Palawan Massacre at Plaza Cuartel

Near the Palawan Museum is Plaza Cuartel. This space was a former World War II garrison for the Japanese. It was also the site of the Palawan Massacre, where 150 American POW were burned alive by the Japanese, leaving only 11 survivors. There are displays describing the massacre, so that visitors can learn about this dark part of Palawan history.

Plaza Cuartel is set up like a public park, with greenery and benches for sitting. There are tricycles on display for picture taking (for a nominal fee), and a beautiful view of the bay. There is no set admission fee for entering the park, but there is a donation box at the entrance. Plaza Cuartel is open Mondays through Fridays from 8 am to 5 pm. It’s a good place to spend down time during your Puerto Princesa itinerary. 

9. Check out the Puerto Princesa things to do at Baywalk

After a visit to Plaza Cuartel, head to Baywalk, a stretch of boardwalk along the bay. This is a popular spot for locals to spend an evening. Make sure to go just before sunset, when it’s not so hot, and when the “magic hour” lighting makes it perfect for picture taking.

Seafood restaurants line Baywalk. You can take your pick of grilled squid, grilled fish, and even grilled crocodile, which is a Palawan specialty. 

There are also two places where you can rent bicycles (they’re rather old, but still usable for the most part). The cost ranges between PHP 20 to PHP 75 (roughly $0.40 USD to $1.50 USD) per hour, depending on the size and type of bicycle. We enjoyed renting bikes for our family, and spending an afternoon riding up and down Baywalk. It’s a great way to end a day!

10. Visit Baker’s Hill, one of the most unique Puerto Princesa tourist spots

Don’t forget to venture out to the outskirts of Puerto Princesa. The city is quite spread out, and there are a few attractions worth visiting outside of the city center. The next two spots I recommend are about twenty minutes north of the city center. Expect to pay between PHP 80 to PHP 150 ($1.60 USD to $3 USD) for a tricycle, depending on the distance and your negotiation skills.

If you’re into kitschy attractions, head to Baker’s Hill in northern Puerto Princesa. It’s a bakery, restaurant, playground, and art installation combined into one (although the art part is where the kitsch comes in). There are sculptures and artificial trees made with recycled materials. And a colorful playground for the kids to play.

Baker’s Hill is free to enter, but you’re not allowed to bring outside food or drinks. There’s a bakery onsite, where you can buy treats. There is also a restaurant for eating lunch, as well as kiosks and cafes serving small snacks and drinks.

11. Experience local culture at the Butterfly Garden and Tribal Village

After a morning and lunch at Baker’s Hill, continue your Puerto Princesa itinerary with a visit to the Palawan Butterfly Garden and Tribal Village. This privately owned attraction has many species of butterflies flying within an enclosed garden. There are also other bugs and small reptiles on display, including stick bugs, scorpions, and leopard geckos. 

The highlight of the attraction, though, is the tribal village. As part of entrance to the Palawan Butterfly Garden and Tribal Village is a demonstration from members of a local Palawan tribe. We saw traditional musical instruments, traditional weapons, and learned some aspects of their day to day life. 

Proceeds from the entrance fee go towards supporting the Palawan tribe. Members of the tribe, who normally live in the highlands of Palawan, take turns living at the Palawan Butterfly Garden and Tribal Village. They stay for about a month, and then are replaced by a new group of tribe members.

Entrance to the Palawan Butterfly Garden and Tribal Village is PHP 50 (roughly $1 USD) for adults and PHP 35 (roughly $.70 USD) for kids. The attraction is open every day from 8 am to 5 pm.

12. Play at Stellar Grounds

A great place to spend an afternoon, after exploring Puerto Princesa things to do, is Stellar Grounds, located on Rizal Avenue. Stellar Grounds is an open air food market with over five  restaurants, as well as a few souvenir shops. Cuisines range from traditional Filipino seafood to Mediterranean.

The area at Stellar Grounds is decorated with trees, shrubs, lights, comfortable seating areas, and photo spots. There is also a trampoline and play structure for kids to play. They also host open mic nights later in the evening.

13. Take a Puerto Princesa Underground River tour

No Puerto Princesa trip is complete without visiting one of the most famous Puerto Princesa tourist spots: the Underground River. An 8 km long subterranean river near the town of Sabang, the river is home to bats and sparrows, as well as stunning rock formations. It’s also a UNESCO world heritage site.

Families can visit the Underground River on their own, but it’s easier to go on a tour. Our tour picked us up at our Airbnb and took us to Sabang, where we took a ferry to the Underground River. There, we rode a rowboat through a small portion of the Underground River.

Underground River tour prices may vary depending on time of year and tour company. Tours include transport, a guide, and a buffet lunch. An environmental fee of around PHP 150 (roughly $3 USD) per person is also required.

To pre-book an Underground River tour, check out these options:

Underground River Day Tour a UNESCO heritage site

UNESCO Underground River Day Tour

Underground River Cruise and Ugong Cave w zipline

Check out these posts to explore more destinations to visit in the Philippines with kids .

Other ideas for Puerto Princesa things to do!

This city tour Puerto Princesa itinerary is just the beginning of your explorations into Puerto Princesa and the island of Palawan. There were a few Puerto Princesa things to do that we didn’t get a chance to experience while we were there.

The Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center is a government-managed wildlife rescue area located 10 km north of Puerto Princesa. The center has around 1450 crocodiles (which is why it’s also known as the Crocodile Farm) and 245 other kinds of wildlife. 

Other popular Puerto Princesa tourist spots include Mitra’s Ranch, as well as swimming at Nagtabon Beach, firefly watching in the mangroves, and snorkeling at Sabang. You can also supplement your Puerto Princesa itinerary with a trip to El Nido, some four or five hours away.

If your time in Puerto Princesa is limited, book one of these tours, which takes you to the highlights of this Puerto Princesa itinerary:

Half-day Puerto Princesa City Tour

City tour of Puerto Princesa Palawan Philippines

City Tour of Puerto Princesa

Or for a more off-the-beaten-path cultural experience, take this excursion to a nearby Batak village:

Puerto Princesa: Trek to Batak Tribe Village

A family-friendly Puerto Princesa itinerary

Whatever you choose to do in Puerto Princesa, there are plenty of fun and family-friendly options to choose from. We loved our time in Puerto Princesa, and hope to return some day. It’s a wonderful low key destination, perfect for a multi-day retreat from the hectic pace of life.

Have you done Puerto Princesa travel or visited Palawan with kids? What was on your Puerto Princesa itinerary? Share it with me in the comments!

Is The Philippines part of a bigger family travel adventure for you? Use my ebook,  Hey Kids, Let’s Go Travel!  as a resource for tools, advice, and action steps for planning your trip.

Need help thinking through how to budget for a family trip? My  Travel Budget Worksheet  is just the tool you need! Click  here  to receive your free copy by signing up for my newsletter.

Want to connect with me on social media? Find me on Facebook , Instagram , Pinterest , and Twitter. And for those of you who are dedicated to traveling more responsibly, sustainably, and ethically, join over 200 like-minded families on my Facebook group, Responsible Family Travel .

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Palawan itinerary: things to do in puerto princesa, tourist spots and places to visit (travel guide blog 2024 for first-timers).

Looking for top things to do in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, tourist spots and best places to visit? Read on this Puerto Princesa Travel Guide Blog with sample Palawan itinerary, where to stay (best hotels and resorts) and recommended tours to help you plan an Ultimate Palawan Adventure this 2024!

Palawan trip blog with sample itinerary, 2024 puerto princesa travel guide blog for first-timers (updated) - things to do in puerto princesa, tourist spots & places to visit, it’s all in package - the puerto princesa, palawan itinerary (4 days and 3 nights), must-read: sample puerto princesa itineraries for first-timers, day 1: arrival in puerto princesa and city tour.

DAY 2: Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour

DAY 3: Honda Bay Tour and Firefly Watching

DAY 4: Enjoying the Resort + Departure

Top Things to Do in Puerto Princesa City, Tourist Spots and Places to Visit 2024

Puerto Princesa Underground River Day Tour

Puerto Princesa City Bay Cruise

Puerto Princesa City Heritage Tour

Puerto Princesa Chasing Waterfalls Tour

Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour

Puerto Princesa Firefly Watching

Puerto Princesa Chasing Waterfalls and West Coast Beaches

Puerto Princesa Tabon Cave Excursion

Puerto Princesa Balsahan River and Trail

Planning a trip to puerto princesa city, palawan but you don't know where to start check out these sample puerto princesa itineraries for 3, 4, 5, 6 days tour or more that will serve as your guide in creating your own palawan itinerary., you might also like:.

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• SAMPLE CORON ITINERARIES for 3, 4, 5, 6 Days Tour or More
• More PALAWAN Travel Blogs, Guides and Tips Here!

I hope this list of top things to do in Puerto Princesa, tourist spots and best places to visit in Palawan help you in planning an amazing Puerto Princesa Palawan adventure! Enjoy and have fun in Palawan!

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4D3N El Nido + Puerto Princesa: A Must-Have DIY Guide 2024

Table of Contents

• Day 1: Arrival at Lio Airport, El Nido
• El Nido Tour A Highlights
• El Nido Tour A Additional Fees
• Transfer from El Nido to Puerto Princesa
• Explore Puerto Princesa City
• Puerto Princesa City Highlights
• Getting around Puerto Princesa City
• Puerto Princesa Underground River Highlights
• Attractions and Activities
• Frequently asked Questions
• Sample Itinerary with Budget

Planning a trip can be confusing, especially when you want to see beautiful places like Puerto Princesa City and El Nido on Palawan Island. You might wonder, "How can I enjoy both places in 4 days and 3 nights?" 

This guide is here to help you figure it out. Whether it's your first time in Palawan or you've been before, this guide will make your trip unforgettable.

El Nido and Puerto Princesa are two of Palawan's most popular tourist destinations. 

These destinations are a dream come true for people who like beautiful scenery, such as the Big Lagoon in El Nido and the Underground River in Puerto Princesa, and activities like snorkeling, island hopping, and kayaking.

In this post, you can find information on how we traveled to El Nido and Puerto Princesa, the places we visited, itineraries, a breakdown of expenses, my insights about the tour, and tips. I hope you find this information useful for your next El Nido and Puerto Princesa trip.

• A 4-day trip plan for El Nido and Puerto Princesa.
• A detailed tour for each day.
• Answers to common questions.

Sample 4D3N Itinerary with Budget

There is only one airline that can take you to El Nido, and that is AirSwift . Our flight was delayed for an hour so we had to wait.

We arrived in El Nido in the afternoon. Upon exit, motor tricycle drivers were waiting outside the airport. Since we were 16 people when we traveled to El Nido, we preferred to book a private van. If you want a private van transfer, you can book a van transfer from El Nido airport to your hotel here.

It takes around 20 minutes to drive from Lio Airport to downtown El Nido, just 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) away. After we checked in, we explored the El Nido Beach area and looked for dinner afterward.

Day 2: El Nido Island Hopping (Tour A)

El Nido offers four commercialized island-hopping tours: Tour A, B, C, and D. We chose Tour A because it's the most popular.

Our tour didn't have a hotel pickup, so we hired tricycles to drop us off at the meeting area. In our case, the meet-up area is the Forever Blessed Hotel on Serena Street, El Nido Beach Area (Near El Nido Docking Area). The meet-up area may vary depending on your tour package. Meet-up time is 8:00-8:30 a.m.

Upon arrival, we were asked to register and pay additional fees:

• Environmental Fee: PHP 200
• Big Lagoon Fee: PHP 200 (paid on the Big Lagoon stop)
• Kayak Rental: PHP 300 to PHP 400 (paid at the Big Lagoon stop)

Once the payment was settled, we hopped on our boat and proceeded with the tour. Here are the highlights of our tour. Note that the itinerary may slightly change due to crowd control.

• Our first stop was at 7 Commando Beach . According to our tour guide, it was named 7 Commando Beach because a massive fishing vessel was stranded here, and the name of the vessel was Seven Commando. The area has a beach volleyball court and a ball where you can also play.
• Our second stop was the popular Big Lagoon . It's one of the most beautiful lagoons in the area. Rippling clear waters and rock formations will surround you. The main activity here is swimming and kayaking. We went to the inner part of the lagoon. It was so peaceful and beautiful.
• Afterward, we had lunch at Shimizu Island . Our lunch was great, and fresh coconuts were also being sold in the area. We stayed in Shimzuo Island for a while before our next stop.
• We then continued to the Secret Lagoon . You will need to pass a small hole to enter the Secret Lagoon because the area is surrounded by rocks. 
• Our last activity was snorkeling. The snorkeling site is between Inatula Island and Shimizu Island.

DAY 3: Transfer from El Nido to Puerto Princesa

This section includes information on how to get to Puerto Princesa from El Nido and what to expect in the Puerto Princesa City tour.

The most popular and convenient way to travel between Puerto Princesa and El Nido is by van, which takes 5 to 6 hours. Alternatively, you can take the Cherry bus, but the travel time may be longer.

We decided to travel to Puerto Princesa in the morning and then book a city tour in the afternoon.

Shared El Nido to Puerto Princesa Van Schedules:

Van Schedule: Monday-Sunday (schedule may vary)      

Note that the pickup times and places for private and shared van transfers differ. We booked the private van transfer because we are a group of 16, which allowed us to decide the pick-up time and place.

The shared van transfer pick-up location varies. If you booked online, double-check whether the transfer includes hotel pickup. The shared van transfer cannot guarantee a 4-5-hour trip because it will stop, pick up, and wait for other passengers.

You can also go to the El Nido Bus terminal early and then directly book a ticket there with your preferred schedule. The most common and recommended van company is the Eulen Joy Express.

We asked our private van to be picked up by 7 AM because I had read the reviews about delays, and I was right. We booked two private vans. The first van was on time, while the other van was late. We stopped for breakfast and grabbed snacks because we might be unable to take our lunch due to a tight schedule. We arrived in Puerto Princesa at lunch, so we were still able to continue our Puerto Princesa city tour scheduled at 1 p.m.

Puerto Princesa City Tour

When we arrived in Puerto Princesa, our tour guide was already there. She was kind enough to wait, so we immediately checked in and skipped lunch.

Our tour guide was very energetic, witty, and funny. She made our tour lively. Here are our tour highlights:

• Immaculate Conception Cathedral
• Plaza Cuartel
• Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center (Crocodile Farm)
• Binuatan Creations
• The Baywalk
• Bakers Hill
• Mitra's Ranch
• Souvenir Shops

In the evening, we visited the night market area, where most souvenir shops, pubs, and clubs were open.

Day 4: Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour

This is the most popular attraction in Puerto Princesa. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to a "mountain to sea" ecosystem that includes some of the most significant and intact old-growth forests in Asia.

The Underground River is located in Sabang, which is 1 hour and 30 minutes away from the city, so we were scheduled to be picked up at 7 AM.

• We were asked to register and wait for our boat when we arrived at Sabang.
• The boat will transport you to the neighboring island, where you will trek for a few minutes before reaching the entrance of the underground river.
• We had to wait because there was a lineup. When it was our turn, we hopped on our paddle boat and were given a headset for the audio.
• The guided paddle boat will take you through the beautiful tunnel system of the underground river, where you can see the natural beauty of the rock formations, which is still the best part of the trip.
• We then take our buffet lunch at Cacaoyan Park before being driven back to your hotel.

More Puerto Princesa Attractions and Activities

• Cacaoyan Forest Park: It provides Bali-inspired amenities where you can take pictures after lunch
• Mangrove Park: This is a guided paddle boat tour cruising through hundreds of enormous mangrove trees.
• Sabang X Zipline: A zipline that takes you 150 feet above sea level and provides breathtaking views of Sabang Beach. 
• Ugong Rock Zip Line: A single-rider zipline with a 71-meter drop

If you haven't booked one of these attractions or activities, your underground river tour guide will ask you if you want to book these activities.

Note that they collect an environmental fee of PHP 150.

By the way, try out the tamilok , an exotic delicacy with a woodworm soaked in vinegar.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the land travel from el nido to puerto princesa take.

• The journey from Puerto Princesa to El Nido typically takes 5 to 6 hours by road. However, the exact duration can vary depending on the mode of transport, traffic conditions, and tour changes.

How much fare from El Nido to Puerto Princesa?

• Fares for the trip between Puerto Princesa and El Nido vary. A seat on a minivan service can cost around PHP 600 to PHP 1,000 (approximately USD 11 to USD 20), depending on the service provider and whether you book a private or shared ride. The most common van companies are the Eulen Joy Express and Fortwally Travel.

Is there a bus from El Nido to Puerto Princesa?

• Yes, there are buses that run between El Nido and Puerto Princesa. The most popular bus company is the Cherry Bus. The travel time is at least 6-8 hours.

Is Puerto Princesa better than El Nido?

• It's not about which one is better; it's about what experiences you're looking for. Puerto Princesa is known for its UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Underground River, and city tours, offering a mix of natural wonders and urban conveniences. El Nido , on the other hand, is a paradise for island hopping, with breathtaking lagoons and beaches. If you love nature and seascapes, El Nido might be more appealing.

How many days do you need in Puerto Princesa?

• Spend at least two days in Puerto Princesa. This allows you to visit the Underground River and explore other attractions, such as Honda Bay or the city itself.

Can you do a day trip to El Nido from Puerto Princesa?

• While technically possible, a day trip to El Nido from Puerto Princesa is not advisable due to the long travel time (5-6 hours one way). It's better to stay overnight in El Nido to truly enjoy what it has to offer without rushing.

Here's a sample itinerary with a budget. You can change it accordingly. You can skip or add things to do or places to see. Note that the budget does not include airfare, accommodation, food, souvenirs, or shopping expenses.

I hope you found this article informative and engaging. It would also be helpful if you shared this link so that other people could read it. I appreciate you reading.

I earn a commission if you make a purchase on affiliate links in this article at no additional cost to you.

Lorraine Jose

Lorraine is a web developer, freelancer and virtual assistant. Motivated by her diverse experiences, she has built this website to impart her insights and adventures in internet technologies, business tools, web development, her travels, and beyond.

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5-Day Puerto Princesa Itinerary for the Adventurous — Underground Rivers, Limestone Caves and More

Explore underground rivers in the Subterranean River National Park, zip-line over forests and visit beautiful beaches in this Puerto Princesa itinerary in the Philippines !

Nothing has proved me wrong quite like Puerto Princesa. As the capital of Palawan, it’s more popular as just a stopover point for backpackers heading to other spots around Palawan like El Nido and Coron. But it has so much more to offer!

Apart from being home to some of Asia’s most pristine beaches, there are tons of exciting outdoor activities to take part in, from hiking to water activities.

With this Puerto Princesa itinerary, you’ll get to explore all the great spots from the sky to the sea that’ll leave you amazed from start to finish!

Read also: 9 Most Adventurous Things to Do in Palawan

Pre-trip Essentials

Connectivity: Pre-book your 4GB SIM card (~S$9.51) with unlimited calls and texts and pick it up once you arrive at the airport.

Getting around Puerto Princesa: Tricycles (or trikes) are abundant in the city, and they’re easy to flag down wherever you are. For far off places, consider hiring a private charter, which can be arranged with your hostel’s front desk. Google Maps is also very reliable here!

Accommodation in Puerto Princesa: We stayed at Guni Guni Hostel , which is 10 minutes away from the airport. This beachy hostel is popular amongst backpackers. It’s clean, comfortable and easily accessible!

Day 1: Island hopping at Honda Bay

Explore some of asia’s most pristine beaches.

Honda Bay is studded with beautiful islands surrounded by crystal blue waters and fine, golden sand. We went on a guided island tour covering the stunning Luli Island, Cowrie Island, and Starfish Island.

Starfish Island is named for good reason — walk along the shores and you’ll find groups of sea stars relaxing in the shallow waters. You can wade around them but don’t take them out of the water! Our friends get dehydrated easily and need the seawater to get nutrients.

Diving board at Luli Island.

Luli Island is an expert at the disappearing act. The petite island is out of sight by evening as it gradually submerges due to high tide. However, if beach hoppers come later in the day, they can park themselves at the elevated bar to escape rising waters.

The most bustling island of them all would definitely be Cowrie Island . If you’re looking for a place to lounge about, Cowrie Island is perfect for that. Rent yourself a hut or tent for just ₱250 (~S$6.80), or enjoy an hour-long massage for ₱100 (~S$2.70).

The lunch provided from the tour was also located here, where we had a generous buffet spread. What a treat!

Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour Cost: ~S$44.85/pax Tour Timing: 7AM – 3:30PM Pick Up:  Available for accommodation in downtown Puerto Princesa

Indulge in the freshest catch at Badjao Seafood Restaurant

Sink your teeth into the freshest seafood in Puerto Princesa when you dine at Badjao . We ordered the seafood platter for ₱895 (~S$24.67) which came with buttered crabs, smoked squid, grilled prawns and fish. The Crocodile sisig (minced meat) and sinigang (sour soup) were just as delectable.

Cost: From ₱250 for mains Opening Hours: 10AM – 10PM How to get there: Take a 10-min trike ride from the hostel.

Day 2: Subterranean River National Park

Explore the famous underground river and atv through the sabang jungle.

Puerto Princesa is known for the famous Underground River , which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During our tour , we saw amazing limestone formations that resemble Catholic figures and events in the bible like Jesus, Mary and the Last Supper.

The cave is home to loads of bats and it’s a sight to behold. But don’t open your mouth when looking up, unless you want bat droppings for lunch!

After learning about the majestic caves, the tour brought us to another island where we rode an ATV through the jungle. It’s not every day you get to drive in thick forestry and it was quite an exciting experience for me!

The track we were on wasn’t too challenging but there were points where the terrain got extra rocky. Our guide also helped us take cool group shots along the way.

Puerto Princesa Underground River with ATV Jungle Track Tour Cost: ~S$93.97/pax Tour Timings: 6:30AM – 5:30PM Pick Up: Available for accommodation in Puerto Princesa City Centre and Sabang

Dine under the fairy lights at Stellar Grounds

If you enjoy the hipster night markets in Bangkok , you’ll appreciate Stellar Grounds , a unique gem in Puerto Princesa.

This space offers more than a dining experience with live music performances, an outdoor playground and stores that showcase local arts and crafts. It’s not the size of a Bangkok night market, but it’s definitely got the vibes!

Cost: From ₱200 for mains Opening Hours: 11AM – 11PM How to get there: Take a 10-min trike ride from the hostel.

Unwind with local beer at Palaweno Brewery

Palaweno Brewery is the humble everyday bar you would love to have back home. Priding themselves on their local creations, the rustic vibes of the outdoor bar immediately put you in the mood to crack open a cold one with the boyz. 

One of their interesting brews is coconut beer. The unique flavour is just as refreshing as it sounds; with the perfect balance of coconut and ale!

They also make their own Buko rum. Filled with fresh coconut bits, this homemade rum is a delicious must-try. Order a shot for ₱150 (~S$4.10) or get yourself a big bottle for ₱1500 (~S$41.30).

Cost: From ₱170/pint Opening Hours: 1PM – 9PM How to get there: Take a 10-min trike ride from the hostel.

Day 3: Get your adrenaline pumping at Ugong Rock

Weave through limestone caves and zip-line over lush greenery.

Ugong Rock is a rock that got its name from the sound it produces when it’s hit 😂. You’ll come across these rocks as you make your way to the top of the zip-line. The route to the top left me in some tight spots as we spelunked our way up!

Along the way, our guide also shared about the history of the rock formations, which made our journey even more entertaining.

Once you’ve reached the top, the only way down is by flying! The only options you have are to either drop 71m sitting down or to fall and fly like the Man of Steel. I obviously chose the more badass option: Superman. The first drop was the scariest but gliding over lush greenery was a sweet recovery.

Puerto Princesa Ugong Rock Spelunking and Zipline Cost: ~S$88.39/pax Tour Timings: 7:45AM – 1PM Pick Up: Available for accommodation in Puerto Princesa City Centre and Sabang

Race your friends at a GoKart circuit

You’ve challenged yourself with a zip-line, now it’s time to challenge your friends and rev it up like Formula One racers at Palawan International Circuit ! The track runs 1.3km long with twists and turns at every corner just like the arcade games.

Cost: ₱250 for 5 laps, ₱500 for 10 laps Opening Hours: 9AM – 6PM, closed on Mon How to get there: Take a 20-min trike ride from the hostel.

 Expand your food horizons with unusual local delicacies

An epic day like this doesn’t end without an equally epic meal. What better way to do so than to try bizarre foods? Crocodile meat might not be our first choice for a typical meal but it’s very common in the Philippines. You might not even realise it’s crocodile meat!

We tried the local delicacy and were impressed by the taste and texture; it was like a cross between chicken and pork. Kinabuch Bar & Grill serves up a decent Croc Adobado for ₱300 (~S$8.15), where it’s cooked in a mouthwatering coconut gravy. Hands down a new fave!

Cost: From ₱200 for mains Opening Hours: 5PM – 1AM How to get there: Take a 10-min trike ride from the hostel.

Day 4: Soak up the sun at Mount Magarwak and Baywalk

Catch the sunrise atop honda bay.

Breaking dawn at Mount Magarwak.

Mount Magarwak is a manageable hike, which makes it the perfect way to start the day and end the trip. The ascent will take approximately 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your fitness level and speed. In order to catch the sunrise at the peak, it’s best to start hiking at 4:30AM.

When we reached the top, it was still pitch dark, which was a big bonus as we had time to stargaze before welcoming a new day. We watched the sun rise over Honda Bay, and it was breathtaking to see the islands slowly come out of the dark.

For this hike, I recommend wearing running shoes and bringing along a headlamp as the terrain is rocky and there are no lights along the way! Going up is manageable, but be careful when coming down. Certain parts can be very steep, so my advice is to stay low to keep your balance.

South View of Mount Magarwak.

You can hike up Mount Magarwak on your own, but you’ll need to arrange for your own transport. Alternatively, engage a local guide to bring you up. For greater convenience, this trekking tour provides a car charter with a guide, along with snacks and coffee as you enjoy the sunrise.

Puerto Princesa Mt. Magarwak Sunrise Trekking Tour Cost: From ~S$67.50/pax Tour Timing: 5AM – 9PM Pick Up: Available for accommodation in Puerto Princesa City Centre and Sabang

Explore Baywalk

After spending the last few days filled with adrenaline, the perfect place to catch your breath again is at Baywalk , a beautiful promenade by the sea. The best time to visit would be around 5PM, an hour before sunset.

The spacious walkway is lined with palm trees too, giving it that Los Angeles vibe — a perfect photo-op for your Instagram!

How to get there: Take a 10-min trike ride from the hostel.

End your last night with a bang — Boodle Fight to the finish!

As the sun sets along Baywalk, it’s right about time to feast! We popped into  Kusina Sa Baybay , where they serve up one of the must-have meals in the Philippines: boodle fight . 

Said to be the meal of soldiers who had to fight to secure their share, the modern-day boodle fight is now served in various sizes to suit different group sizes. We ordered a set for three that comes with grilled squid, prawns, sea grapes, grilled pork, and unlimited rice.

Cost: From ₱370 Opening Hours: 10AM – 10PM Address: Puerto Princesa Baywalk Road, Marufinas, Puerto Princesa, Palawan Island 5300, Philippines

Day 5: Bounce around Kamia Bay Resort’s inflatable playground

If you’ve ever wanted to be a contestant on WipeOut, here’s your chance to finally take up the challenge at Kamia Bay Resort’s Aqua Play ! Palawan’s largest inflatable playground has courses ranging from giant beach balls to jump on to a human launcher and slides of various heights — the tallest at 12m high.

The day pass comes with unlimited access to the playground, an all-you-can-eat buffet lunch and an eco-tour. It would be ideal to go before 2PM to avoid being rushed as the park closes by 4PM. A good tip would be to reach out to them in advance and make a booking!

Cost: ~₱588/pax Opening Hours: 9AM – 4PM How to get there: Hire a private charter at your hostel’s front desk, or take an hour-long trike ride.

Enjoy a hearty meal at Guni Guni

Photo credit: @gunigunihostel via Instagram

Guni Guni Hostel , which was our accommodation for the trip, has its own restaurant serving up western cuisine that’s delicious and affordable. Whether you’re looking for a snack or full-sized meal, you’ll not be disappointed by anything on the menu!

I would recommend their fried chicken with a side of mac and cheese for snacks, and any of their pastas if you’re looking for a meal. Order yourself one of their delicious fruit smoothies too, as it’s made from the freshest seasonal fruits.

Cost: From ~₱180 Opening Hours: 8AM – 1AM Address: 263 Manalo Extension, 5300 Puerto Princesa City, Philippines 

A getaway like no other

At my hostel, the backpackers I met were only visiting Puerto Princesa for a night or two days maximum, which I found such a shame. We spent four days in Puerto Princesa and there wasn’t a moment where we had to think about what to do next!

Our day tours for Honda Bay Island Hopping and the Underground River were pre-booked via Klook which helped make the trip worry-free. We didn’t have to worry about the nitty gritty like haggling for the best deal on the ground, or figuring out transport either. All we had to do was show up and participate!

I can safely say this has been one of my better trips. I believe that if you give Puerto Princesa the time and chance, you’ll have an amazing experience just as I did.

If you’re looking to visit other parts of the Philippines, check out our 7-Day Cebu itinerary !

Are there other fun activities that our Puerto Princesa itinerary missed out on? Let us know in the comments!

This post was brought to you by Klook .

Like what you see? Follow us on  Facebook ,  Instagram ,  YouTube , and  Telegram  for more travel updates!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Travel Intern (@thetravelintern) on Mar 20, 2020 at 4:24am PDT

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One Day in Puerto Princesa Itinerary – How to Spend a Perfect Day in Puerto Princesa, Palawan

Considered the capital and the only city in Palawan, Philippines, Puerto Princesa has the power to take your breath away and make your heart race in seconds with its captivating and natural beauty. Aside from its scenic beauty, Puerto Princesa is considered a first-class city and is also admired as one of the cleanest and greenest cities in the country. Referred to by many as a city paradise, the place has become popular as one of the top vacation destinations for good reasons. Puerto Princesa is a perfect travel destination not only for travelers who want a tropical island experience but also for those who are looking for some nature-related adventures. All these reasons and more make the city a must-visit destination.

Are you planning a trip to Puerto Princesa soon? Whether you’re planning the trip on your own or need some help from your virtual personal assistant , traveling to the place is an experience you shouldn’t miss. Here is a helpful Puerto Princesa travel guide, including important tips and information that may come in very handy.

What’s the best time to visit Puerto Princesa?

Since heavy rains are expected from around August to October, a better option may be to visit the place during the summer season, which is from April to June. However, this period is also peak season because this is summertime in the Philippines.   

If you don’t want to get caught up in the middle of a huge crowd but still want to enjoy the place in dry months, then the ideal time to visit is in January and February. Aside from that, this period is the off-peak season, so you can get huge discounts on flights and hotel accommodations.

A Few Facts about Puerto Princesa

Puerto Princesa is one of the top vacation destinations in the Philippines. As a consequence, it has grown a steady, organized, and synchronized tourism due to the collaborative efforts of different groups working with each other.

Although it is considered to be a highly urbanized city, Puerto Princesa has managed to preserve its breathtaking beauty despite the upsurge of traveling crowds over the years. It has successfully kept its good reputation and has continued to become a magnet for travelers primarily because of its white sand and tropical beaches. Aside from that, the place is also home to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, which is hailed as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. As this is the second-largest city in the Philippines by land area, there are countless activities to do and enjoy in Puerto Princesa.

When traveling to the place, visitors often look forward to different events and festivals held there.  Pangalipay sa Baybay is a good example – visitors can enjoy walking along the tropical beaches while observing different performances from both locals and indigenous people. Another example is the Seafood Festival, where tourists and locals alike can taste for themselves various seafood dishes which are prepared specifically for the celebration.

One Day in Puerto Princesa Itinerary

When traveling to Puerto Princesa, most tourists opt for one of the tour packages, since they are more convenient and hassle-free. However, with the stable tourism of the city, planning your one-day trip will not be much of a trouble.

Whether you choose to take packaged tours or plan to pull off a do-it-yourself option, here are some of the most exciting things and activities you can include in your Puerto Princesa itinerary. 

Take the Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour

A trip to Puerto Princesa is not complete without seeing the Underground River, which is the most famous tourist destination in Palawan.

The tour includes a two-hour trip to Sabang where all tourists take a short 15-minute boat ride to the take-off point. The boat ride itself is nothing ordinary because visitors will get a glimpse of million-year-old rocks situated in UNESCO-protected areas.

The journey to the underground river also includes wandering through what seems like a walk-in zoo with some of the most famous local animals.

Guests and tourists may have to register in advance, as the number of visitors allowed per day is limited. You can book the tour here !

Note: Since it may be pesky to go through all the paperwork hassle for this tour, you may want to consider booking a package because it is a more convenient set-up.

Enjoy Some Honda Bay Island Hopping

Aside from the Underground River Tour, another popular activity you may want to consider during your one day in Puerto Princesa is going on an island hopping experience around Honda Bay.

By renting a boat at the port, you will be able to access 3 or 4 popular island destinations where you can relax and enjoy the tropical vibe. Aside from that, you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities.

You may spend half of your day or the whole day on this, which makes it one of the best things to do if you have limited time in Palawan. Be sure to book a tour in advance!

Note: Some of the more popular beaches around Honda Bay include beaches like Cowrie, Starfish and Pandan.

Book a Puerto Princesa City Tour

Compared to the Underground River Tour and Honda Bay Island Hopping, the Puerto Princesa City Tour is where you can get creative in planning your itinerary. Doing this as an activity is perfect if you have an early morning or a late evening flight to catch.

Some of the places to check out while on the city tour are the following:

Climb Bakers Hill

It is considered by many to be one of the most popular places to visit while on the city tour.  Here visitors can have a taste of delicious and freshly-baked bread while enjoying the relaxing ambiance of the restaurant.

Visit Mitra’s Ranch  

Situated on an elevated position, Mitra’s Ranch provides a scenic view of the city for visitors to enjoy. A governor used to own the place, but recently it opened to the public.

See Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center   

Previously known as the Crocodile Farm, the center does not only house several crocodiles but also other species including the Palawan bearcat, porcupines and the bearded pig.

Stroll Plaza Cuartel   

Once a Japanese garrison where most American prisoners of war were kept, the place has now been converted into a memorial park for war victims.

Enter Immaculate Conception Cathedral  

A glimpse of this beautiful architecture and work of art is a worthwhile activity to include in your tour.

Relax on Puerto Princesa Baywalk   

Just a few blocks away from Plaza Cuartel and the Cathedral is the baywalk where some of the most affordable street food dishes are sold. Strolling through the place for an hour while waiting for the sunset is a very romantic way to end the day.

Note: For this day tour, you have the option of renting motorcycles, tricycles, multicabs, or vans, depending on how many people are with you. If you choose to commute using public transport, you may want to ask the locals for directions.

Best Places to Eat in Puerto Princesa

Traveling around Puerto Princesa is better if you get to have a delicious fill of the various dishes that the place has to offer. If you are looking for top places to eat a great lunch or dinner, then these are some of the dining places that you should consider:

Ka Lui remains one of the more popular restaurant choices in Puerto Princesa for a good reason. The place is an excellent choice if you are craving for some of the most mouth-watering seafood dishes imaginable. Aside from that, the restaurant offers a complimentary fruit salad as a treat. But because of its popularity, you may have to book in advance to secure a seat in the restaurant.

Haim Chicken  

The restaurant’s specialty, its classic chicken, is a secret family recipe. The dish is so juicy and flavorful that locals and tourists alike keep coming back for more. If you are looking for authentic and tasty Filipino dishes, then this is the best place to go.

Kinabuch’s Grill and Bar 

Tamilok, a wood-dwelling mollusk, is a dish that you shouldn’t miss when visiting Palawan. Kinabuch’s Grill and Bar serves not only a tasty tamilok dish but also the crocodile sisig. So, if you are feeling adventurous when it comes to your dinner choices, then you should definitely check out this place. 

La Terrasse

La Terrasse is the best restaurant choice for travelers looking for French-Asian fusion dishes. The place takes pride in using quality ingredients and has mastered several creative ways of taking traditional dishes to a whole new level. On top of that, the place also provides a very calming and airy ambiance perfect for a relaxing dinner.

K’na Boyet Seafood Grill  

For a more laid back dining experience, K’na Boyet Seafood Grill will be a great choice.  The place offers a fresh seafood dinner, and customers can choose for themselves. Here, guests are given the option to choose from the wide array of seafood and meat choices that will be cooked immediately and served to them. And the best part of the experience is that is they will get to enjoy their dinner outdoors by the sea!

Where to Stay in Puerto Princesa, Palawan

There are several options that you can consider when choosing your accommodation in Puerto Princesa.  You may want to include:

Atremaru Jungle Retreat  

Aside from a garden, a bar, a shared lounge, and a private beach area, the place also features a restaurant which makes it a perfect accommodation when in Puerto Princesa.

Paboreal Boutique Hotel  

If you’re looking for an accommodation with an outdoor pool and a terrace, then this place is for you.

ZEN Rooms Sunlight Palawan   

For business and leisure travelers, booking a room here is a great choice.

Your Hostel  

Situated just 8 kilometers from Honda Bay, the place is an excellent and affordable choice for travelers.

Heideland   

One of the top-rated hostels in Palawan, the place also offers a shared lounge and barbecue facilities.

Additional Places to Visit for Day Trips from Puerto Princesa

Aside from the things already mentioned, here are some of the places that you can choose to visit as a part of your day trip:

Ugong Rock  

If you plan to go to the Underground River tour, then you might drop by this place in the morning before proceeding with the tour.

Sta. Lourdes Hot Spring  

Looking forward to a relaxing hot spring experience while in Puerto Princesa? You may want to visit this place and relax a bit.

Iwahig River Firefly Watching   

To finish your one day in Puerto Princesa, the Iwahig River Firefly Watching is an excellent choice. The activity is not for the faint of hearts, however, as it involves being on a boat for a good 30 minutes in total darkness. But seeing the fireflies appearing like shimmering Christmas lights will make the experience worth it. 

Note: If you want to have a hassle-free firefly watching experience, then booking a package tour will prove to be a great choice for this trip.

Extra Tips for Visiting Puerto Princesa

Here are some additional tips that you may have to remember while in Puerto Princesa:

Opt to walk when you can  

Walking around Puerto Princesa is a great choice not only because you can save some money but also because the place offers many scenic views.

Tricycle fares   

Usually, airport tricycles cost more than the usual tricycles that operate around and within the city.

Be friendly to the locals  

When you are friendly to the locals, they will warm up to you more. And who knows? Maybe they will lead you to better deals and help you get discounts.

Are you excited to make your Puerto Princesa trip? It certainly is a place that will never disappoint. And don’t forget: whatever happens, smile and have fun.

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Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

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Karstine Mae Sanchez

Karstine Mae Sanchez is a content marketer at OkayRelax. She loves writing content on business and work management, food and nutrition, and travel lifestyle. When she is not busy, you can find her at the beach, exploring different islands, watching beautiful waves and walking in the sand.

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Puerto Princesa City Half-day Tour

Our 5-day Palawan trip was supposed to start with Underground River tour . But weather in Sabang wasn’t cooperating on our first day so our guide toured us around Puerto Princesa City instead. Good thing the weather in the city was nice. This city tour is actually just a “free tour” offered by Hadefe Travel & Tours. The package only includes El Nido and Underground River, no city tour included. I don’t know maybe because it was my birthday!

See also: El Nido, Palawan Island Hopping Tour A El Nido, Palawan Island Hopping Tour C

First thing I noticed while touring around the city was cleanliness and order. As a person who once lived in Metro Manila, those are quite uncommon things to see. Not to mention it was holiday so I was expecting a little chaos. But what happened was the opposite. And the city doesn’t look like a typical city with towering skyscrapers. The rural atmosphere was still evident.

Here’s a map of the sites we covered. We visited 5 places, but we were not able to include Palawan Wildlife Conservation Center since we were quite in a hurry. We still need to catch sunset at Nacpan Beach in El Nido .

Plaza Cuartel

Our first stop was Plaza Cuartel which is a historical park with a grim past. It’s an open-air war museum for around 150 US soldiers burned underground by the Japanese during World War II. Plaza Cuartel once served as the garrison for American and Filipino soldiers until it was invaded by the Japanese. A fortress for soldiers turned into a prison and a place of massacre. Only 11 men out of 150 survived the massacre.

By appearance, it’s like a normal park covered with trees and many benches. There were even pedicab units adorned with synthetic flowers that could tour you around. But we didn’t have enough time for such activity so we just took some pictures. It’s too pretty and colorful to ignore!

It was like hitting two birds in one stone because our next destination stands just on the other side of the road. Immaculate Conception Cathedral is just few steps from Plaza Cuartel.

See also: El Nido & Puerto Princesa via Hadefe Travel & Tours

Immaculate Conception Cathedral

Located along Rizal Avenue in Brgy. Liwanag, Immaculate Conception Cathedral is another accessible historical and religious landmark in Palawan. This is one of the famous tourist destinations in Puerto Princesa City.

It has a touch of European architecture with high and pointed bell towers. With its neat blue-colored facade, you cannot expect to see an antique-looking church as it’s regularly retouched with paint. Nevertheless, the antique details and structures are still noticeable.

It’s clearly a Roman Catholic Church and as much as everyone’s welcome, but we simply don’t belong here. We just took photos of its impressive appearance then headed to our next stop.

Binuatan Creations

Binuatan Creations is a handloom weaving center where you could buy locally made products and souvenirs. You can watch how the products are made on the spot, and you can even try it yourself! It’s actually my second fave spot just next to Baker’s Hill which I’ll talk more about later.

By the looks and feel, it’s apparent that their products are of high quality. We were not prepared though, to think that we were still on our first day and spending our extra cash would be the last thing we want to do. This city tour was supposed to be on our last day, if not because of the weather in Sabang.

We enjoyed weaving while being amazed by how fast the locals do their thing. They were simply doing it effortlessly and efficiently. I also liked their choice of colors, how they mix and match. It’s like they were born to do all this.

Seems like it’s not a majority’s thing since we were the only visitors that time. I know this may look boring for some, but it’s actually a unique and interesting experience. You just have to give it a try.

Mitra’s Ranch

Another popular tourist destination, Mitra’s Ranch is a piece of paradise located at Sta. Monica Heights. The ranch is situated on a hilltop therefore offering picturesque hillside and sea views.

Mitra’s Ranch is owned by the family of the late senator, Ramon Mitra. It used to be a private property but now visitors are allowed to hang out or have a picnic for free. You can also try horseback-riding within the vicinity for 100 Php per person. The place is huge so it’s perfect for such activity.

We just spent time admiring the surrounding views and savored the fresh air. Some things that Manila can’t offer. The huge ranch is literally surrounded by greens. Such a relaxing view to look at.

Just meters from Mitra’s Ranch there stands our next destination which is the main highlight of our city tour: Baker’s Hill.

Baker’s Hill

Also located in Sta. Monica Heights, Baker’s Hill is a theme park that’s also famous for freshly baked goodies. They offer their products for reasonable price so you might want to hoard  pasalubong here. Again, it’s our first day so not a good time to buy  pasalubong . But Jeric bought my “surprise” birthday cake here! We also bought some cupcakes and banana cake so we could have something to munch on our journey to El Nido right after this tour.

The park is huge and full of cute and pretty decorations. And just like Mitra’s Ranch, Baker’s Hill is also situated on top of a hill, hence the name.

This is where we explored the longest in our city tour. It really takes time to explore a place as huge as this. We also have lots of photos here as it’s absolutely instagrammable. You won’t help but capture more and more photos!

It was time for lunch so we hopped on our van and headed north. We had our lunch at a huge eatery along the way as per our guide’s recommendation.

By the way, we had the van exclusively so we had a comfortable 5-hour journey to El Nido. We went staright to Nacpan Beach for sunset. Thankfully, we arrived around 5 pm, just in time for the golden hour!

Well, those were the days. Really beautiful memories and experiences. But I still don’t wish everything to go back the way it was. Instead, I want things to be better than it was. But better things doesn’t always mean a “better world”. So to you who’s reading this, I encourage you to start looking beyond the world — the everlasting. Because this world is temporary. I also don’t wish everything to come back to normal — I want it to be extraordinary. And extraordinary things require an extraordinary God. So I’m trusting no other but Him. When all else fails in life, I have to trust His plan.

“Trust in the  Lord  forever, For in  God  the  Lord , we have an everlasting Rock.” ~Isaiah 26:4

“Trust in the  Lord  with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the  Lord  and turn away from evil.” ~Proverbs 3:5-7

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Hi, I'm Dea! A traveler who loves good food and an electronics engineer based in PH. I like creating itineraries and daydreaming about the places. As weird as it might sound, I find the planning part as enjoyable as the trip itself. I love sunsets, beaches, and staycation trips. And I'm a worshipper of God—the source of my everything! I once wandered aimlessly in life, until Jesus found me! Now, I just wander around wonderful places as I marvel at His creation ❤️

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Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour

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So beautiful!

It truly is! 🙂

How are you on this lockdown?

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How to Spend 1 Day in Puerto Princesa - A Complete Itinerary for Puerto Princesa

by Trip.com

December 19, 2022

Day 1 | Morning

Puerto princesa city baywalk park.

Ticket Price: Free

Recommended Length of Stay: 2.0-3.0 Hours

Location: Puerto Princesa City Baywalk Park, Puerto Princesa, MIMAROPA, Philippines

The Baywalk in Puerto Princesa is not far from the city center, but it is actually a "seaside avenue" by the bay. The sea here is quiet, and after 5 pm, it will become a leisure place for local residents, full of atmosphere. Recommend everyone to come here to enjoy the tranquility before sunset.

Reviews from Real Guests:

Sweet Jojo: Although most of the best things to do in Puerto Princesa are outside the main city, one of the best things to do at night is visiting the City Baywalk. This is by far the best thing to do in Puerto Princesa at night after visiting the other attractions during the day. There is nothing better than an evening stroll down the Puerto Princesa Baywalk. It stretches 2km (1.25 miles) along the waterfront between the Puerto Princesa Cultural Center and the U.S. Embassy. There is plenty to see and do at the Baywalk, with vendors and restaurants lining the paths, which makes this a really fun night out. The area is well lit up and is safe for tourist, perfect for taking a stroll along the open seaside. It’s a great place just to hang out and enjoy the atmosphere, there are bikes to rent and you will see the local kids having the time of their lives riding up and down. There is plenty of sitting areas and benches that you can sit down and absorb it all in. The Puerto Princesa City Baywalk opens at 1 pm to 11:00 pm daily. I would recommend visiting around 5 pm so you can get there as it turns from day into night. At night is when the Baywalk comes alive, there are vendors selling snacks and plenty of restaurants to choose from.

@sweetaehr: It is a park where you can eat food, rent a bike, or simply walk in these place. There are different food and sea foods. Very affordable and pick on your choice. There were also souvenirs and henna tattoo around this corner. Crowded at night. But nice to come by, friendly people.

Day 1 | Afternoon

Having the chance to enjoy the charming Puerto Princesa City Baywalk Park, Immaculate Conception Church next to it is another great place that you will never want to miss!

Immaculate Conception Church

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-1 Hours

Location: 58 Rizal Avenue, Puerto Princesa, 5300 Palawan

The Holy Spirit's Conception Cathedral is a very famous "Blue Cathedral" in Puerto Princesa , which can be reached by walking westward along Rizal Street. The church was built in 1872. The main building is light blue. It is a very beautiful blue building. The sunlight through the blue glass makes the church a blue world. There are many statues of Filipino celebrities in front of the church, and many local residents will come to the square in front for recreation. The glass in the church is transparent and very bright. Although it is not so luxurious and complicated, it has another fresh taste.

Sweet Jojo: This cathedral in the heart of Puerto Princesa is located right next to the Plaza Cuartel. They hold mass in both English and Filipino multiple times a day and is decorated with impressive wooden arches and paintings of the 12 apostles on the roof.

JWTT: Immaculate Conception Church is my comforting zone especially when I am a student. I always went here to released my burdens and struggles to our assignments, activities and other school works. Soon I'll gonna go back here.

Day 1 | Evening

If you want to explore other popular attractions later, Lihim Resorts is a suitable place for you to stay and refresh.

Lihim Resorts

Unapologetically secluded and decidedly intimate, LIHIM is the discreet destination of choice for the discerning traveler. LIHIM in El Nido, Palawan reveals a unique tropical getaway that reconnects the senses to the LUXURY IN SIMPLICITY. LIHIM treats every encounter and experience as a ritual. Sacred, intimate and purposeful, this distinct brand of hospitality permeates every nook and cranny of this veiled paradise. Guests do not simply check-in at LIHIM, they meander deep in emerald tropical forests, and begin a soulful commune with nature. The luxury of experiences is something that unfolds itself at Lihim. In this well-kept secret, tucked in the depths of paradise’s last frontier, senses go on a journey where myth, magic, and mystery come to life. The curator, mastermind, director, and grand host behind all these: nature. Conversely, the luxury resort makes zero compromises in creating unforgettable luxury experiences. From the time guests cruise towards LIHIM’s hidden shores, up to when they foray back into the real world, moments at LIHIM are eternally etched as among one’s most beloved memories.

Check Availability

* All reviews in the blog are machine-translated.

Table of Content

• Day 1: Puerto Princesa City Baywalk Park, Immaculate Conception Church

Puerto Princesa Weather

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2-Day Puerto Princesa Itinerary

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• Puerto Princesa in 2 days
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Table of contents

Day 1: most popular attractions, day 2: southwest side of town, puerto princesa subterranean river national park.

Astoria Palawan

Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center (Crocodile Farm)

Palawan butterfly ecological garden and tribal village, baker's hill, robinsons palawan, sm city puerto princesa, where to eat, skylight restaurant, ka inato main branch, daluyon beach and mountain resort.

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Puerto Princesa City Baywalk Park

Immaculate conception cathedral, plaza cuartel, mitra's ranch, cowrie island, luli island, namaskar vegetarian house, viet ville restaurant.

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Top searches in Puerto Princesa

Popular road trips from puerto princesa, what's the weather like in puerto princesa.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Puerto Princesa for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Puerto Princesa in January
• Weather in Puerto Princesa in February
• Weather in Puerto Princesa in March
• Weather in Puerto Princesa in April
• Weather in Puerto Princesa in May
• Weather in Puerto Princesa in June
• Weather in Puerto Princesa in July
• Weather in Puerto Princesa in August
• Weather in Puerto Princesa in September
• Weather in Puerto Princesa in October
• Weather in Puerto Princesa in November
• Weather in Puerto Princesa in December

All road trips from Puerto Princesa

• Puerto Princesa to El Nido drive
• Puerto Princesa to Coron drive
• Puerto Princesa to San Vicente drive
• Puerto Princesa to Port Barton drive

Explore nearby places

• Puerto Princesa
• Port Barton
• San Vicente
• Barangay Buena Suerte
• Brooke's Point
• Sangat Island
• Busuanga Town
• San Jose de Buenavista
• San Joaquin
• San Remigio

All related maps of Puerto Princesa

• Map of Puerto Princesa
• Map of Sabang
• Map of Port Barton
• Map of Roxas
• Map of San Vicente
• Map of Narra
• Map of Dumaran
• Map of Quezon
• Map of Taytay
• Map of Barangay Buena Suerte
• Map of El Nido
• Map of Brooke's Point
• Map of Batarasa
• Map of Linapacan
• Map of Sangat Island
• Map of Concepcion
• Map of Magsaysay
• Map of Coron
• Map of Busuanga Town
• Map of Balabac
• Map of Anini-y
• Map of San Jose de Buenavista
• Map of Hamtic
• Map of Belison
• Map of San Jose
• Map of Sibalom
• Map of Patnongon
• Map of San Joaquin
• Map of San Remigio
• Map of Bugasong
• Map of Bulalacao

Puerto Princesa throughout the year

• Puerto Princesa in January
• Puerto Princesa in February
• Puerto Princesa in March
• Puerto Princesa in April
• Puerto Princesa in May
• Puerto Princesa in June
• Puerto Princesa in July
• Puerto Princesa in August
• Puerto Princesa in September
• Puerto Princesa in October
• Puerto Princesa in November
• Puerto Princesa in December

Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Puerto Princesa?

Check out our other curated itineraries that are also filled with jam-packed days:

Day itineraries for nearby cities

• 2-Day El Nido Itinerary
• 2-Day Coron Itinerary
• 2-Day San Vicente Itinerary
• 2-Day Port Barton Itinerary

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