The Best of Puerto Princesa: Itinerary, Tours + Travel Guide 2024

Planning a trip to Puerto Princesa? You're in for an adventure! Imagine exploring the stunning Subterranean River National Park or soaking up the sun while island hopping in Honda Bay. Sounds amazing, right? But how do you squeeze all these incredible experiences into just three or four days?

Our ultimate travel guide will take the stress out of planning. From the best times to visit and how to get there to top activities and perfect places to stay, we've got you covered. Get ready for an unforgettable Puerto Princesa adventure!

TL;DR:

• Best time to visit Puerto Princesa
• How to get to Puerto Princesa
• Airport transfer services
• Accommodation options
• Transportation tips
• Tours and activities
• Sample 4D3N itinerary with budget

I hope you find this information useful for your next Puerto Princesa trip.

Best Time to Go to Puerto Princesa

When planning your trip to Puerto Princesa, timing is everything. Many travelers agree that the best time to visit is from November to May.

During these months, you can fully enjoy the great outdoors, from exploring the Subterranean River National Park to island hopping in Honda Bay.

December to April marks the peak season, so expect more tourists and higher prices.

If you prefer a quieter experience and better deals, consider visiting in November or May. This way, you can still enjoy good weather without the crowds. But still, always check weather conditions.

How to Get to Puerto Princesa, Palawan?

You have several convenient options depending on where you're starting from.

From Manila

You can easily get a flight from Manila to Puerto Princesa. Local air flights, such as Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines, offer frequent daily flights, which provide flexibility in travel planning.

From El Nido

• Van and bus transfers are the most common transfer services between the two cities.
• Travel time for van transfers is at least 4-6 hours, while bus transfers are at least 5-8 hours.
• You can find more details on the transfer options, where to book vans and buses, and the most frequently asked questions about the transfer below:

From Coron

There are no direct flights or direct ferry boats from Puerto Princesa to Coron. Here are the two options you can consider:

• Via Connecting Flight: You can get to Puerto Princesa from Coron by taking a connecting flight, usually with a layover in Manila. You can check flights on Cebu Pacific Air and Philippine Airlines.
• Via Ferry + Van: Travelers usually go to El Nido by ferry, and then from there, they will take a van or bus to Puerto Princesa. Alternatively, you can check hassle-free travel between the two islands below.

From Port Barton

• The only option to get to Puerto Princesa from Port Barton is via van or bus.
• Port Barton to Puerto Princesa takes 4- 5 hours via van. For hassle-free travel, check the travel package below:

Puerto Princesa Airport: Transfer Services

There are plenty of airport transfer services available at Puerto Princesa Airport to meet your needs. Puerto Princesa offers 2 main airport transfer services: local motorcycle and private or shared van transfers.

Minivans and car rental agencies are available in the Arrivals area. Prices vary depending on the service and number of people, so you can choose what works best for your group.

Local motor tricycle drivers often wait outside the airport and may offer transportation to your hotel. Be prepared to negotiate the fare.

For shared van transfers, the van will only depart once it is full. Private vans will pick you up and leave promptly. Booking in advance can save you time and ensure a smooth start to your adventure.

Getting around Puerto Princesa, Palawan

Getting around Puerto Princesa is easy and convenient, allowing you to enjoy a carefree afternoon exploring the city. The most common modes of transportation include tricycles, which are affordable and can take you to most places within the city.

For longer distances, you can access buses. Renting a scooter or a car is also an option if you prefer more independence.

Many hotels offer shuttle services, making it simple to get to popular attractions like the Subterranean River National Park and Honda Bay.

Whatever your preference, getting around Puerto Princesa is straightforward and stress-free.

Where to Stay in Puerto Princesa, Palawan

Choosing the right accommodation can make or break your Puerto Princesa vacation. Here are some top picks for different preferences and budgets:

Luxury Resorts

1. Princesa Garden Island Resort and Spa

• Features: Overwater villas, infinity pool, spa services
• Ideal for: Couples and families seeking luxury and relaxation

2. Astoria Palawan

• Features: Waterpark, beachfront location, eco-friendly amenities
• Ideal for: Families and eco-conscious travelers

Mid-Range Hotels

1. Canvas Boutique Hotel

• Features: Artistic design, rooftop pool, close to the airport
• Ideal for: Art lovers and travelers looking for modern comforts

2. Aziza Paradise Hotel

• Features: Spacious rooms, swimming pool, live entertainment
• Ideal for: Groups and families wanting good value

Budget Accommodations

1. Amelia's Homestay

• Features: Cozy rooms, friendly host, breakfast included
• Ideal for: Budget travelers seeking a homely feel

2. Dallas Inn

• Features: Clean rooms, helpful staff, central location
• Ideal for: Backpackers and solo travelers

Unique Stays

1. Balay Tuko Garden Inn

• Features: Large garden, peaceful environment, pool
• Ideal for: Nature lovers and those looking for tranquility

2. Blessie's Bed and Breakfast

• Features: Personalized service, charming decor, local vibe
• Ideal for: Travelers wanting a more intimate experience

No matter your preference, Puerto Princesa offers accommodations that will enhance your stay and make your trip unforgettable.

What to know about Puerto Princesa?

• Puerto Princesa is situated on a small peninsula in the heart of Palawan, so the sea surrounds the city. It can get extremely humid.
• Puerto Princesa is the last frontier in Southeast Asia.
• Puerto Princesa was hailed as the cleanest and greenest city in the country. Know that they have ordinances against littering and smoking in public places, and they also have a waste segregation program for proper disposal of garbage.

Things To Do + Tour Packages in Puerto Princesa

Puerto Princesa is packed with exciting activities and tours you won't want to miss. Here are the top things to do in Puerto Princesa.

1. Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour (Most Popular)

This tour includes the following stops: Subterranean River National Park, Cacaoyan Forest Park, Mangrove Park, and Ugong Rock.

Visit the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park

Take a tour of the renowned Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This park is home to a unique "mountain to sea" ecosystem featuring some of Asia's most significant and intact old-growth forests.

You'll also marvel at the stunning limestone karst landscape, a globally important habitat for the conservation of biodiversity and endangered wildlife species.

During the tour, a 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.

Cacaoyan Forest Park

The Cacaoyan Forest Park provides Bali-inspired amenities and a variety of opportunities to get back in touch with nature. 

Located just outside Puerto Princesa, this park offers a serene escape with lush greenery and abundant wildlife. The amenities are designed for comfort and convenience, including picnic areas, walking trails, and restrooms.

This park is a common stop for a buffet lunch when visiting the Underground River.

They also serve tamilok here, an exotic delicacy that features a woodworm soaked in vinegar which you should try when visiting Puerto Princesa.

Mangrove Park

Mangrove Park is a hidden gem that travelers should add to their trip itinerary. This park offers a unique opportunity to explore the fascinating mangrove ecosystem.

As you cruise through the river, you'll enjoy stunning sights of dense mangrove trees and the diverse wildlife that inhabit the area. It's a peaceful spot to learn about the importance of mangroves in Palawan's ecosystem.

Ugong Rock

Ugong Rock is a thrilling destination you should visit during your time in Puerto Princesa. This limestone formation offers exciting quests for the adventurous person.

You can climb through narrow crevices and scale the rock's interior, making your way to the top for a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.

For an added thrill, zipline back down to the base. It's an adventure that combines physical activity with stunning natural beauty, perfect for anyone looking to add a bit of excitement to their trip.

Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour Additional Information:

The Underground River is located in Sabang, which is 1-2 hours away from Puerto Princesa City, so it's best to book a guided tour.

We booked a tour, and here are the highlights:

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off are included in our tour package.
• Upon arrival at Sabang, we were asked to register while waiting for our boat.
• After that, we boarded our boat and transferred to the nearby island where the Underground River is located. Note that they don't allow to continue with the tour if it's high tide.
• Afterward, we had our buffet lunch at Cacaoyan Park.
• After lunch, you can visit the Mangrove Park and Ugong Rock if preferred.
• All necessities, such as tickets and permits, are included in this tour package.

2. Honda Bay Island Hopping

Another popular tour destination in Puerto Princesa is the Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour.

This tour includes Luli Island, Cowrie Island, and Starfish Island.

Luli Island

Luli Island is known for its disappearing sandbar that submerges during high tide. This is ideal for those who want a tranquil beach experience. The main activities here are swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on the sandbar.

Cowrie Island

Cowrie Island is the most developed of the three, with amenities like cabanas, bars, and restaurants. This is where most tours stop for lunch.

They offer activities such as jet skiing, banana boat rides, snorkeling, and beach volleyball.

Starfish Island

Starfish Island is named for the abundance of starfish that can be seen in the clear waters. If you are a nature lover and interested in marine life and underwater photography, this one is for you.

Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour Additional Information:

• The tour includes lunch and hotel pick up and drop off as long as it is within the city center.
• They also collect an environmental fee of PHP 150. Snorkeling gear is available for rent.
• Don't forget to bring your sunscreen and camera to capture the stunning views!

CHECK HONDA BAY ISLAND HOPPING TOUR

How to get to Honda Bay for a DIY tour

If you prefer not to join the guided tour, you will have to get to Sta. Lourdes Wharf.

• Get a tricycle or jeepney to get you to Sta. Lourdes Wharf.
• Inquire about trips for Honda Bay Island Hopping at the local tourist association. They will ask you to register.
• After registering, choose the islands you’re planning to visit. Other islands to visit are Snake Island and Pambato Reef.
• Pay the fees, and you can rent snorkeling gear if preferred.
• If you are traveling solo, the local tourism officials will find you people to join their group. Otherwise, you will have to rent the whole boat.

3. Puerto Princesa City Halfday Tour

Experience some of the cultural activities and landmarks that should be a part of every visitor's itinerary in Puerto Princesa.

• Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center (Crocodile Farm)
• Mitra’s Ranch
• Bakers Hill
• Binuatan Creations (Weaving Loom Center)
• Immaculate Conception Cathedral
• Plaza Cuartel
• Promenade/The Baywalk
• Souvenir Shops
• Butterfly Garden and Tribal Village

You'll be dropping by some of the affordable souvenir shops, so it's best to buy your "pasalubongs" or souvenirs during this tour.

According to one of our guides, Ms. Val, there are only two remaining jeepneys operating in Puerto Princesa City. If you prefer not to join a guided tour, the best way to get around the city is through taxis, cabs, and tricycles. These are the most common modes of transportation in the city.

4. Mt. Magarwak Sunrise Trekking

If you're searching for something to do in Puerto Princesa other than lounge on the beach, this hike up Mount Magarwak is an excellent option. Hike to an elevation of 350 meters, where you will be treated to one of the most breathtaking sunrises in all of Palawan.

What to expect at Mt. Magarwak peak:

• Honda Bay View
• Puerto Princesa Bay View
• Puerto Princesa City Vew

Tour included round-trip transfers to and from your hotel, insurance provided by the operator, water, coffee or tea and light snacks (sandwich or pan de sal)

How to get to Mt. Magarwak for DIY tour:

If you prefer not to join the guided tour, you will have to get to Barangay Bacungan. Mt. Magrawak is less than 30mins drive. The best way to get there is through tricycles, vans, and rented cars.

• Get to the San Jose terminal and ask for vans or buses that go to Bacungan. If you're lucky, you'll find an early enough northbound bus. If not, you'll have to rent tricycles in the area.
• Ask them to drop you off at the Bantay Gubat Monitoring Station.
• Take the feeder road to the right. Follow this road uphill until you find an old house on your left. This is where vehicles can park.
• Turn left after the old house and take the trail to the left. The path can easily be navigated because it's already been paved by trekkers and hikers visiting the area.
• Alternatively, you can rent a car in Puerto Princesa. Check the link below.

Initially, you can hike up without a guided tour and no entrance fees. However, they started collecting parking fees at around PHP 20–100, depending on whether you were parking a motorcycle or a four-wheeled vehicle.

Bring snacks, water, and a flashlight or headlamp, as there are no stores or vendors near the trail.

5. Firefly Watching in Puerto Princesa 

See one of nature's wonders up close as you cruise down the river in a paddle boat. Nagsaguipi River is home to a diverse mangrove ecology where thousands of fireflies light up the night.

The activity is in Kitu-Kito D’ Makarios Firefly Watching Place in Barangay Tagbato, Salvacion. The place is 33km away from the city center. Public transport is difficult in this area so booking a tour or renting a car is recommended.

What to expect in the Firefly Watching tour:

• Sightseeing boat tour. Get the chance to see fireflies glimmering in Palawan
• Educational Tour
• Buffet Dinner

Joint tours include hotel pick up and drop off but are limited only for hotels within Puerto Princesa City downtown.

Sample Itinerary

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. Please feel free to share your thoughts and feedback in the comments section below.

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