Puerto Princesa, Palawan
Explore the GuideWhy Visit
Puerto Princesa is the eco-tourism heart of Palawan. While many travelers use it as a quick transit point to El Nido, the city itself offers a unique blend of world-class natural wonders and a laid-back culinary scene that makes it a destination in its own right.
Here is why Puerto Princesa belongs on your travel list:
1. The Puerto Princesa Underground River
This is the city’s crown jewel—a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature.
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The Experience: You’ll navigate a paddleboat through a massive limestone cave system featuring an 8.2 km navigable underground river.
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What to See: Spectacular stalactites and stalagmites that take on familiar shapes (like the “Cathedral” or “The Cacao”), and a diverse ecosystem of bats and swiftlets.
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Pro Tip: Most tours now include an audio guide in multiple languages to keep the cave quiet and protect the wildlife.
2. Island Hopping in Honda Bay
Just 30 minutes from the city center, Honda Bay is perfect for a day of sun, sand, and snorkeling.
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Starfish Island: Named for its high population of large, orange sea stars.
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Luli Island: Famous for its sandbars that “sink” (Lulubog) and “rise” (Lilitaw) with the tide.
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Cowrie Island: The best spot for a buffet lunch and relaxing in beachfront cabanas.
3. Magical Firefly Watching
As the sun sets, the mangroves along the Iwahig or Nagsaguipi Rivers come alive.
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The Tour: You glide down the river in a small boat in near-total darkness.
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The Sight: Hundreds of fireflies illuminate the trees like flickering Christmas lights, while bioluminescent plankton often glows in the water beneath you. It is one of the most serene and romantic experiences in Palawan.
4. Unique Cultural & Ethical Tourism
Puerto Princesa offers experiences you won’t find in the more commercialized parts of the island:
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Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm: Often called the “Prison Without Walls,” this is a unique facility where inmates live in a village setting, farm the land, and create handicrafts. Visitors can talk to them and buy their carvings.
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Bata-Batak Tribal Village: Learn about the traditions of Palawan’s indigenous people, including blowgun demonstrations and traditional music.
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Palawan Wildlife Rescue (Crocodile Farm): A sanctuary for the endangered Philippine Crocodile and other endemic species like the Palawan Bearcat.
5. A Growing Foodie Scene
The city is famous for its “garden-style” dining and fresh seafood.
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Must-Try Spots: KaLui (an iconic barefoot restaurant serving fresh catch) and Kinabuchs (famous for crocodile sisig and tamilok—woodworm delicacies).
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Baker’s Hill: A whimsical park and bakery known for its “Hopia” (bean-filled pastry) and stunning views of the bay.
Signature stops
Planning your visit
Where to Stay
Princesa Garden Island Resort and Spa(₱8,000-25,000/night)
This is the premier choice for travelers seeking an upscale, sanctuary-like experience. It is located just a few minutes from the airport but feels worlds away.
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The Vibe: A massive, Balinese-inspired waterfront resort focused on eco-friendly luxury.
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Highlights: It features one of the largest swimming pools in the city, a private sandbar reachable by boat, and the famous Golden Elephant seafood restaurant.
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Best for: Families and honeymooners who want a self-contained resort experience with top-tier service.
Hue Hotels and Resorts Puerto Princesa (₱2,500-7,000/night)
Hue offers a modern, “city-chic” atmosphere and is located right next to Robinsons Place mall, making it incredibly convenient for shopping and dining.
Bambua Nature Cottages(₱500-2,000/night)
For those who want to get away from the city noise and experience the “City in the Forest” literally, this is a beloved budget gem located near the Sabang area (closer to the Underground River).
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The Vibe: Rustic, serene, and deeply connected to nature. You stay in traditional bamboo cottages surrounded by gardens and mountain views.
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Highlights: It offers a peaceful “off-the-grid” feel. While simple, it is highly rated for its authentic Palawan atmosphere and friendly, home-like service.
When to Visit
Best Time to Visit Puerto Princesa, Palawan
Because most attractions involve water and boats, the dry season is generally preferred.
1. The Best Weather: November to May
This is the Dry Season and the peak time for tourism.
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Conditions: The seas are calm, the skies are clear, and the sun is out. This is the ideal time for the Underground River and Honda Bay, as tours are rarely canceled due to waves.
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Peak Months: March, April, and May are the hottest months. This is “summer” in the Philippines, perfect for beach weather but also the time when popular spots are most crowded.
2. The Budget & Quiet Window: June to October
This is the Rainy Season, characterized by afternoon monsoon showers and the occasional typhoon.
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The Upside: Hotels are significantly cheaper, and you can enjoy the top attractions without the long lines. The “City in the Forest” looks its greenest and most vibrant during this time.
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The Risk: Boat tours (Underground River and Honda Bay) may be canceled at the last minute if the coast guard deems the waves too rough. If you visit now, keep your schedule flexible.
3. Special Events & Festivals
If you want to experience the local culture, try to align your trip with these dates:
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Baragatan Festival (June): This is the biggest celebration in Palawan. It’s a month-long festival featuring street dancing, colorful parades, and trade fairs showcasing local crafts and food.
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City Fiesta / Immaculate Conception (December 8): The city lights up with festivities, night markets, and religious processions.
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Love Prawan (February 14): Puerto Princesa celebrates a unique “Love Affair with Nature” every Valentine’s Day by planting thousands of mangrove saplings along the coast—a great way to participate in local eco-tourism.
Getting There
How to Get to Puerto Princesa
Getting to Puerto Princesa is straightforward, as it serves as the main gateway to Palawan. Because the city has its own international airport, it is the most accessible point in the province.
1. By Air (Fastest & Most Common)
The Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS) is located right in the heart of the city.
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From Manila: There are multiple daily flights via Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia. The flight takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
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From Cebu/Iloilo: Regular direct flights connect these major hubs to Puerto Princesa, usually taking about 1 hour.
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International Flights: While primarily domestic, there are occasional seasonal charters from Taipei or South Korea. Most international travelers fly into Manila (MNL) first and then take a domestic connection.
2. By Sea (The Scenic Route)
If you have extra time and are on a strict budget, you can take a ferry.
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Routes: 2GO Travel operates large passenger vessels from Manila to Puerto Princesa.
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Duration: The journey takes about 24 to 30 hours.
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Experience: It’s more like a mini-cruise with bunks, meals, and entertainment, but it is much slower than flying.
3. Overland from El Nido or San Vicente
If you are already in Palawan and moving south to the capital:
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Shared Van: This is the most popular method. Numerous van companies (like Lexxus or Eulen Joy) run between El Nido and Puerto Princesa. The trip takes 5 to 6 hours.
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Public Bus: The Cherry Bus (offering both economy and air-conditioned “Elite” classes) departs from the El Nido Transport Terminal. It’s slightly slower than a van but offers more legroom and a smoother ride.
Costs & Budget
Estimated Daily Budget for Puerto Princesa, Palawan
Puerto Princesa remains one of the more affordable destinations in the Philippines compared to El Nido or Boracay. Your daily budget in 2026 will largely depend on how many “big-ticket” tours you book, as these represent the bulk of a traveler’s expenses.
Here is a breakdown of what to expect per person, per day:
1. Budget Traveler: $25 – $40 (₱1,400 – ₱2,300)
This is for the backpacker staying in hostels and eating like a local.
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Accommodation: Dorm bed or basic fan-cooled guesthouse (₱600 – ₱900).
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Food: Eating at carinderias (local eateries) or street food stalls (₱500 – ₱700).
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Transport: Using public jeepneys or shared tricycles (₱150 – ₱200).
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Activities: Mostly free sights (Baywalk, Cathedral) or one DIY beach trip.
2. Mid-Range Traveler: $60 – $100 (₱3,500 – ₱5,800)
This is the most common budget, covering comfortable hotels and the famous tours.
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Accommodation: Air-conditioned room in a mid-range hotel or boutique inn (₱2,000 – ₱3,500).
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Food: Dining at popular restaurants like KaLui or Kinabuchs (₱1,000 – ₱1,500).
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Transport: Private tricycles or occasional Grab/taxi (₱400 – ₱600).
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Activities: This budget assumes you are doing one major tour (like the Underground River) every other day.
3. Luxury Traveler: $180+ (₱10,000+)
For those staying at top-tier resorts and preferring private experiences.
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Accommodation: Luxury resort like Princesa Garden Island or Four Points (₱7,000 – ₱12,000+).
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Food: High-end hotel dining and specialty seafood restaurants (₱2,500+).
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Transport: Private van rentals or hotel chauffeur services (₱2,500 per day).
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Activities: Private boat charters for Honda Bay and personalized, private Underground River tours.
Essential Travel Tips
Essential Travel Tips for Puerto Princesa, Palawan
1. Book the Underground River Early
Because it’s a protected UNESCO site, there is a strict daily visitor cap.
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The Tip: Don’t wait until you arrive in the city. Book your permits through a licensed tour operator at least 2 to 4 weeks in advance, especially if you are visiting during the dry season (December–May).
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ID Requirement: You must bring your physical passport (or a very clear photocopy/digital copy) on the day of the tour for verification at the wharf.
2. Cash is King (But Cards are Growing)
While major hotels, malls (Robinsons Place, SM Palawan), and high-end restaurants like KaLui accept credit cards, the rest of the city runs on cash.
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The Tip: Withdraw enough Philippine Pesos (PHP) at the airport or in the city center. ATMs can sometimes run out of cash or reject international cards during holiday weekends.
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Small Bills: Keep ₱20, ₱50, and ₱100 bills handy for tricycle fares and tips.
3. Respect the Environment
Puerto Princesa takes its “City in the Forest” title seriously. Local environmental laws are strictly enforced.
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No Littering: There are heavy fines for littering.
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Single-Use Plastics: Many tours, especially the Underground River and Honda Bay, discourage or ban single-use plastic water bottles. Bring a reusable insulated flask; most hotels provide free water refills.
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Don’t Touch: When snorkeling in Honda Bay or visiting the caves, never touch the coral or the rock formations.
4. Connectivity and Power
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SIM Cards: Pick up an eSim or a local SIM (Globe or Smart) at the airport. Signal is strong in the city center but will drop significantly when you head out to Sabang (Underground River) or rural beaches.
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Power: The Philippines uses Type A and B sockets (same as the US and Japan) at 220V. If your devices are 110V, you may need a converter.