Ready for a whirlwind adventure through Palawan's most iconic destinations? This 10-day itinerary packs in the best of Puerto Princesa, Port Barton, El Nido, and Coron, offering a diverse mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and exhilarating activities.
Flights and Transportation
Manila to Puerto Princesa (Day 1): Multiple airlines fly this route daily, with Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia being the most common. Round-trip fares typically range from $80-$150. Flights take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Puerto Princesa to El Nido (Day 3): You have two main options: 1. Van or Bus: Several companies operate vans and buses between Puerto Princesa and El Nido. The journey takes 5-6 hours and costs $15-$20. This is a budget-friendly option but can be less comfortable for long journeys. 2. Rent a car: You can start in Puerto Princesa and choose to return your city car in El Nido instead of Puerto Princesa for an extra fee.
El Nido to Coron (Day 8): 1. Flight: AirSWIFT offers direct flights, taking about 45 minutes and costing $100-$150. This is the most convenient and time-saving option.
2. Ferry: Montenegro Lines and other companies operate ferries between El Nido and Coron. The journey takes 3-4 hours and costs $30-$40. This is a more affordable option but can be affected by weather conditions.
Travel Within Destinations: 1. Tricycles: These are the most common mode of transportation within towns and for shorter distances. Negotiate the fare before your ride.
2. Vans/Buses: For traveling between towns or longer distances, vans and buses are available.
3. Car Rentals: If you prefer more flexibility and independence, consider renting a car. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season.
Day 1-2: Puerto Princesa's Underground Wonders
Villa Kalachuchi: Featuring air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, access to a terrace, table tennis and free WiFi. The property offers car hire and features a garden and outdoor fireplace. Book your best priced stay here.
Hibiscus Garden Inn: Nestled within beautiful landscaped gardens, Hibiscus Garden Inn offers complimentary two-way shuttle service from Puerto Princesa Airport. Book your best priced stay here.
Morning (Day 1): Arrive in Puerto Princesa and check into your accommodation.
Afternoon (Day 1): Venture into the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its extraordinary underground river system flowing through stunning cave formations. The tour includes a boat ride through the cave and a guided walk through the surrounding rainforest. (Cost: $40-$50) Book your Underground River Tour here.
Day 2: Embark on a Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour, where you can explore picturesque islands like Starfish Island, Luli Island, and Cowrie Island. Enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on pristine beaches. (Cost: $30-$40) Book your Island Hopping Tour here.
Day 3-4: Port Barton's Laid-Back Charm
Accommodation: Jungle Bar. 500 metres from White Beach, Jungle bar Resto & Cottages offers accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a terrace and a restaurant. Book your best priced stay here.
Summer Homes Beach Resort: Just a few steps from Itaytay Beach, Summer Homes Beach Resort and Cottages features accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a terrace and a restaurant. Book your best priced stay here.
Travel: Take a van or bus from Puerto Princesa to Port Barton (4-5 hours, $15-$20).
Days 3-4: Embrace the slow pace of life in Port Barton. Relax on the tranquil beach, indulge in fresh seafood at local restaurants, go island hopping to secluded spots like German Island and Exotic Island, and experience the magical bioluminescence on a night tour. (Island hopping cost: $20-$30; Night tour cost: $10-$15) Book your island hopping tour here.
Day 5-8: El Nido's Island Escapes
Accommodation: S Resort El Nido: Situated in El Nido within 70 metres of El Nido Beach and less than 1 km of Caalan Beach, S Resort El Nido provides rooms with free WiFi. Book your best priced stay here.
Morning Walsh Resort: Each room at the resort comes with a balcony with garden views and a private bathroom with free toiletries. The units are air-conditioned and are equipped with a safety deposit box, a desk and a refrigerator while some rooms have a tea/coffee maker. Book your best priced stay here.
Travel: Take a van or bus from Port Barton to El Nido (4-5 hours, $15-$20).
Day 5-7: Embark on island hopping Tours A, B, C (including hidden gems like Secret Beach and Hidden Beach), or D, each offering unique experiences. Explore lagoons, snorkel in vibrant coral reefs, discover hidden beaches, and witness breathtaking scenery. (Cost per tour: $25-$35) Check out my experience in El Nido Tour C here:
Day 8: Visit the stunning Nacpan Beach, a 4-kilometer stretch of golden sand and turquoise water, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. Rent a motorbike ($10-$15 per day) to explore the beach and surrounding area, or relax at one of the beachfront bars and restaurants. Check out accomodation ideas in Nacpan Beach here.
Day 9-10: Coron's Sunken Treasures
Accommodation: Tag Resort: accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden and a terrace. The property features a bar, as well as a restaurant serving Pizza cuisine. The accommodation offers a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, room service and free WiFi throughout the property. Book your best priced stay here.
Asia Grand View Hotel: accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden and a shared lounge. 6 km from Maquinit Hot Spring and 1.3 km from Mount Tapyas, the property offers a restaurant and a bar. The accommodation features a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, room service and free WiFi. Book your best priced stay here.
Travel: Fly or take a ferry from El Nido to Coron.
Day 9: Visit the iconic Kayangan Lake, known for its crystal-clear water and breathtaking limestone formations. Explore the underwater world on a shipwreck diving trip, where you can discover Japanese shipwrecks from World War II. (Kayangan Lake entrance fee: $3-$5; Shipwreck diving cost: $40-$60) Book your Ultimate Day tour with Shipwreck here.
Day 10: Embark on a Coron Island Tour, visiting Twin Lagoon (a unique lagoon with a hidden passageway), Barracuda Lake (a freshwater lake with fascinating thermocline layers), and Skeleton Wreck (a shallow wreck perfect for snorkeling). (Tour cost: $30-$40) Book your Coron Tour A Island Hopping tour here.
Additional Tips:
Pack Light: Bring versatile clothing that can be layered, as the weather can change quickly. Don't forget essentials like sunscreen, mosquito repellant, a hat, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle.
Cash is King: While larger establishments may accept credit cards, many smaller shops and restaurants in Palawan operate on a cash-only basis. Ensure you have enough Philippine Pesos for your entire trip.
Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly when visiting churches or sacred sites. Ask permission before taking photos of people, especially indigenous communities.
Bargain: Haggling is common in local markets and for transportationlike tricycles.
Stay Hydrated: Palawan's tropical climate can be hot and humid, so drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Travel Insurance: It's always recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.
This itinerary is just a starting point – feel free to tailor it to your interests and budget. With its natural wonders, rich culture, and warm hospitality, Palawan promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave you longing to return.
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