Discover the natural wonders in Palawan's capital, Puerto Princesa, home of the famed Underground River. Find out the top attractions and things to do, learn the best time to go and how to get there, and choose where to stay and eat with this article.
Puerto Princesa in Palawan is most famous for the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park or the Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and holds a place in the New7Wonders of Nature.
It is also the gateway to famous paradise-like destinations in Palawan like El Nido and San Vicente because it has its own international airport. But there's more to Puerto Princesa than being just a jump-off site and location to the famous natural wonder.
Puerto Princesa, also known as The City in a Forest, is rich in various unknown but must-see tourist spots and exciting tours and activities that make it worth a visit for more than just a day.
You can choose to visit its historical sights, natural parks, outdoor adventure spots, and shopping centers. It also has several island and beach destinations for island-hopping adventures where you can eat the freshest seafood. Read on to find out everything you need to know to plan your trip to Puerto Princesa.
Puerto Princesa Travel Requirements & Guidelines | COVID-19 New Normal Starting December 8, 2021, travelers from the Philippines can once again explore Puerto Princesa’s majestic attractions like the Underground River. With the threat of COVID-19 pandemic, the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) and the Local Government Unit (LGU) have announced a set of guidelines and tourist requirements to follow before you visit the “Eco-tourism Center of the Philippines”.
1. Who are allowed to go to Puerto Princesa? Puerto Princesa in Palawan is open to tourists provided they have a negative COVID-19 test result. Fully vaccinated individuals need to present a negative antigen test result taken at least 24 hours prior to arrival and a vaccination card or certificate to prove their fully vaccinated status.
Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travelers must present a negative RT-PCR test result taken within 48 hours prior to their arrival. Those staying more than 5 days need to take an antigen test on their 5th day of stay.
Other requirements needed for entry to Puerto Princesa include pre-booking with any of the DOT-accredited Puerto Princesa hotels or resorts, travel itinerary, a dedicated transport while in the city, tickets to a return flight, and an approved Travel Voucher from the City Tourism Department.
Tourists are only allowed to stay for 4 days and 3 nights at most.
2. What are the entry points in Puerto Princesa?
The main entry point in Puerto Princesa is Puerto Princesa International Airport.
3. What travel requirements do you need to prepare?
Here are the requirements that you need to prepare before going to Puerto Princesa: Prepare your Vaccination Card or Certificate (For fully vaccinated)
As proof of your vaccination status, you need to show a vaccination card or certificate.
Secure a Negative COVID-19 Test Result
Fully vaccinated individuals must present a negative antigen test result taken 24 hours prior to travel, while unvaccinated and partially vaccinated travelers need to show a negative RT-PCR test result taken within 48 hours prior to their arrival. Unvaccinated and partially vaccinated travelers staying more than 4 days need to take an antigen test on their 5th day in Puerto Princesa
Confirmed Booking at a DOT-Accredited Accommodation
Domestic tourists can stay at any of the DOT-Accredited hotels or resorts in Puerto Princesa.
Book Tours with DOT-accredited Operators
In order to enjoy some of the top attractions in Puerto Princesa, guided tours must be booked only with DOT-accredited hotels, travel agencies, tour operators. Do-it-Yourself (DIY) or day tours are not allowed.
Have your Point-to-Point Travel Itinerary
Your itinerary will be evaluated by the City Tourism Office before you are allowed in the city. You also need to have a dedicated transport during your stay in Puerto Princesa.
Get a Travel Voucher from the City Tourism Department
You can secure this from a DOT-accredited accommodation or travel agency.
4. What are the guidelines and protocols to follow when you're in Puerto Princesa?
Once you're in Puerto Princesa, make sure you follow these safety protocols:
Minimum health standards
Domestic tourists must utilize the proper use of face masks, wash hands regularly, and practice social distancing, especially in public. This is to stop the spread of COVID-19.
Transport protocols
Domestic tourists must practice the minimum quarantine protocols while in the vehicle. Make sure to follow your guide’s instructions at all times during the tour.
Dining protocols
Domestic tourists, as well as food establishments and restaurants, must follow the health and safety regulations of the city government.
5. What activities can you do in Puerto Princesa during quarantine?
Don't miss the chance to enjoy the tourist spots of Puerto Princesa, which include the majestic Underground River, Honda Bay, and many more.
Best Time to Go to Puerto Princesa
Before you book a ticket going to Puerto Princesa, you have to check the island’s weather conditions. You’ll be able to do every activity listed in your itinerary if you know the best time to go.
You have to check other factors in traveling such as climate and temperature as well. Here’s a rundown of the recommended months to visit, detailed information on the peak season, and what to wear during your trip to Puerto Princesa.
Dry and Summer Season | November to May
The best time to go to the island is during the dry and summer season from November to May. There's less chance of rainfall from April to June, which means you get to enjoy the majority of inland and water activities on the island.
Climate and Weather
Puerto Princesa’s climate is tropical. There’s heavy rainfall during September, with an average of 210 mm. The warmest months are from March to May, with an average temperature of 29°C.
Meanwhile, the month with the chilliest weather is from November to February, with an average temperature of 23°C. Here’s an average overview of the monthly temperature in Puerto Princesa: What to Wear
If you’re going to Puerto Princesa to experience the Underground River or other activities, wear light and breathable outfits. It will let you move around freely and comfortably. Wear waterproof shoes as well.
For sightseeing in the city, it’s recommended to wear light outfits and gears like sunglasses and hats to protect you from the sun. During the rainy season, make sure to bring an umbrella with you in case of showers.
How to Get to Puerto Princesa
Due to its ever-increasing popularity, what was once a remote region of the Philippines can now be reached by land, sea, and air. You have to consider different factors before buying your ticket. These include distance, route, and budget.
Make sure that the course you’ll be taking is the most convenient for you. Consider booking months in advance, especially if you plan to go during the peak season. Here are some of the ways you can visit Puerto Princesa:
By Flights
Photo from Philippine Airlines
You can go to Puerto Princesa by catching a flight from either Manila or Cebu airport. These flights from budget carriers ply the route almost daily, and you can get to Puerto Princesa from Manila in just over an hour. There are also flights from Clark, Iloilo, Cebu, and Davao. Here’s detailed information about these flights:
From Manila
Major airlines such as Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific and AirAsia has nonstop flights going to and from Puerto Princesa from NAIA International Airport Terminal 2 and 3. The usual travel time is an hour and a half. It's best to book flight months in advance as seats might be limited, especially when traveling during peak season.
From Cebu
There are direct and connecting flights going to and from Mactan-Cebu International Airport to Puerto Princesa. Major airlines that fly to the city include Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific and AirAsia. Nonstop flights have an average travel time of an hour while connecting flights depends on the total time of the layover. Manila is also a significant layover for those connecting flights.
From Clark
If you’re coming from the Clark International Airport, the best way to go to Puerto Princesa is by booking either a nonstop or connecting flight. Major airlines such as Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific and AirAsia offer these flights. If you’re taking a connecting flight, the usual stop is at Cebu.
From Iloilo
You can also book a flight going to Puerto Princesa from Iloilo. Both Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific offer these flights. The usual travel time for nonstop flights is an hour while connecting flights depends on your total time of the layover. Manila is often the layover for the connecting flights.
From Davao
There are also flights going to and from Davao International Airport Domestic Terminal to Puerto Princesa. Major airlines such as Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific and AirAsia offer connecting flights. The main layover for these flights is Manila. The average travel time ranges from 4 to 8 hours.
By Ferry
If you prefer the sea route, you can take the ferries and super ferries from the surrounding islands. Coron, another Palawan destination, is a total of 10 hours off by sea. Take this route only if you have time on your hands. Here’s a list of the typical ferry rides going to and from Puerto Princesa:
From Manila
2Go Travel offers a route from Manila to Puerto Princesa. The ferry usually departs during Tuesday and Friday and will arrive at the Puerto Princesa Pier. Travel time is almost a day. There are different types of seats, and it might get booked quickly, so make sure to reserve at least a day before your estimated date of departure.
From Coron
If you're coming from Coron, the best way to go to Puerto Princesa is by riding a ferry. The usual departure dates are on every Wednesday and Saturday. It departs from Coron Pier and arrives at Puerto Princesa Pier at night. It has an estimated travel time of 15 hours. Since travelers in Palawan often go and visit both cities, seats may come and go quickly. It's better to make a reservation for at least a day to ensure your position on the ferry ride.
From Iloilo
If you’re coming from Iloilo, you can go to Puerto Princesa by riding a ferry. It takes at least a day to be able to get to Puerto Princesa, with a stopover at Cuyo Island. Milagrosa Shipping Lines and Montenegro Shipping Lines will take care of your travel. The usual travel time is Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.
By Bus
You can also hit the road courtesy of the various Roll on Roll Off buses and shuttles that go to and from Puerto Princesa. There’s not much choice on where to go — these shuttles mainly exist to connect El Nido to Puerto Princesa. So unless you’re planning to visit both areas, you can take the other means of transport. The usual travel time is around 6 to 7 hours.
Getting Around Puerto Princesa
It’s relatively easy to get around Puerto Princesa. All you need to know is the route you’ll be taking and the right means of transport for your particular destination. You also need to consider the distance between the places you’ll be visiting and decide if it’s better to have private transport instead. Here are the most common areas in getting around Puerto Princesa:
By Tricycle
Once you’re on the island, tricycles are the most visible mode of transport. These colorful tricycles follow routes, so you may or may not be allowed to ride if there are already passengers.
Note as well that tricycles coming from the airport are more expensive than regular trikes going to the city center. You can even hire these to take you on a day tour around the city sights, though this is limited to 2 people. The price is generally charged per person (for regular tricycle fares).
By Jeepney
Photo: The Wandering Mind
You can also ride a jeepney going to and from the city center. They have standard routes and is less cheap than riding a tricycle. It’s best to let the driver know where you plan to get dropped off as it might get confusing for non-locals. You might also wait for a while, especially during off-peak hours as the driver usually remains for at least 16 people to fill in the empty seats.
By Private Car/Van
If you want some privacy, you can rent a car and drive around the area. You may also rent a private van with a driver, or hire one with a guide so you’ll be able to have a hassle-free adventure. You may also join a group tour! There are shared and private tours that will get you to the different attractions within the area with free pick-up and drop off.
See Puerto Princesa’s Natural Wonders
Puerto Princesa is rich with natural wonders. Aside from being the home to a well-renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s also rich with beautiful waterfalls, surreal rivers, and wildlife-rich in biodiversity.
Underground River
Puerto Princesa's Underground River is the number one site that propelled the city to the world’s radar for starters. There is a limited number of visitors that are allowed to enter the site per day, so you can’t just walk in.
Tour operators have VIP access, so even those who love DIYs are better off joining a Puerto Princesa Underground River tour. The best tours include everything from an audio guide to a buffet meal, plus land and boat transfers.
Iwahig River
Iwahig River is known for its penal colony. It houses an entirely different experience. Go here just before dark, and you’ll see the dazzling light of hundreds of fireflies, floating all around you in a mesmerizing sight.
It’s romantic, awe-inspiring, and surreal at the same time. It’s just like in the movies, with the calm river idling around you. Just make sure to turn off your flash when taking photos, or you’ll scare the lightning bugs away.
Tours and Activities: El Nido Adventure Tour
Olangoan Falls
(Photo: Heralld Hugo)
This attraction is just half an hour’s hike from the main highway. It’s a hidden gem, and only a very few foreigners have discovered it. It’s located in Barangay Binduyan and is one of the beautiful falls in the city. It’s a quick trek going there. Once you see it, you’ll be able to dip into its stunning turquoise waters.
Visit the Top Tourist Spots in the City
One of the best things to do in Puerto Princesa is to go on a sightseeing tour. You’ll not only get an in-depth look at the history and development of the city, but there’s a chance that you’ll be able to get these insights from the locals.
Plaza Cuartel
For something straight out of history, check out this popular spot. It's where the American prisoners of war were killed by the Japanese invaders during World War 2, thus sparking the efforts that led to the Great Raid at Cabanatuan.
Crocodile Farm
If it’s a wildlife encounter you wish, Barangay Irawan hosts a crocodile farm in cooperation with the Palawan Wildlife and Rescue Center. That means aside from crocodiles, there are some other animals to see here, too.
Palaweño Brewery
If you want something more urban, there’s the Palaweño Brewery which lets you go sampling some of its marvelous cold brews. This microbrewery is the only female-run brewery in the country! It offers unique drinks suitable for every taste.
Nagtabon View Deck
It offers one of the best sunset-watching places on this side of the country. It's just about 30 minutes away from the city's center and gives you an unparalleled view of the cove of Nagtabon. From here, you might even want to go to Nagtabon Beach directly.
Go Island-Hopping in Honda Bay
Many beachgoers skip Puerto Princesa in favor of neighboring Coron or El Nido, but the city has an ace up its sleeve. Honda Bay island-hopping tours are a must-do for any beach lover.
Aside from lounging on the beach, swimming, and snorkeling, you can try diving too. Here are the islands that you'll be visiting:
Cowrie Island
Many locals and foreign travelers love its clear waters and powdery sands. You can find small establishments here, such as a restaurant that serves a generous serving of food. They also have cottages here for rent.
Starfish Island
This island is famous for the large numbers of starfishes within the area. You can swim and snorkel here as there’s an abundant number of corals and marine life.
Luli Island
Famous for its sandbars that sinks and rises depending on the tide, it’s a recommended island in this island-hopping tour. You can rent cottages throughout the bay, and there are also snorkel gear rentals. It’s one of the best places to visit in Puerto Princesa.
Pandan Island
Aside from swimming and snorkeling, the best thing to do here is to have a quiet time enjoying the island. You can lounge and wade through its aquamarine waters while enjoying your drink.
Try Extreme Outdoor Adventures
For adrenaline-rush chasers, try out extreme adventures in Puerto Princesa. There are many activities you can do here either alone or by a group.
You can do ziplining, rock climbing, ATV ride, or enjoy a day at an adventure park. Here’s a list of the highly recommended activities in Puerto Princesa that will get your adrenaline kicking:
Ugong Rock Adventure
This is a natural complex that offers a lot of activities, including the usual ziplining and trekking, with a good dose of spelunking for those who aren’t claustrophobic. It is north of Puerto Princesa. It’s pretty standard fare for adventure lovers, but hey — it’s Puerto Princesa and its fantastic nature!
Max Palawan
This is an ATV adventure that you can reach in just under an hour from the central part of the city. If you’re not afraid to get muddy and want something more extreme than merely waiting for whatever you’re riding to stop, then try maneuvering these machine beasts through the rough Palawan trail.
Sabang X-Zipline
There are lots of ziplines in the whole of Palawan. You’ve already experienced one at Ugong Rock, now check out the famous Sabang X-Zipline, located near the beautiful underground river. If you got a tour package, this zipline is usually already bundled. It’s a long plummet through the air that showcases Palawan’s beauty. Even going there is a bit of an adventure since it’s a half-hour walk (and hike) to the top where the zipline starts. If any zipline in this side of the country simulates the grandeur of flight, Sabang X does it.
Kamia Bay Adventure Park
This is located in Kamia Bay resort and is the biggest Aquapark in the whole of Asia. Take a moment to absorb that. The whole place is a giant inflatable offering all kinds of activities, from Wipeout-style obstacle courses to simple water slides. It’s a different kind of adventure, and your trip to Puerto Princesa isn’t complete without it.
Inaladelan Island Camp
Inaladelan is a resort island that is perfect for some Survivor-style adventure. Whether you're alone or with friends, the spartan layout and the nature-dominant ambiance of the place is worth a look-see for everyone. There's also some charm as there's no electricity during the daytime — it gives you lots of time to explore the nooks and crannies of this pretty island. What to Eat and Drink in Puerto Princesa There are a lot of local dishes you should try when in Puerto Princesa. A food trip is one of the most exciting things you can do in the city and within the tourist spots! You’ll be able to learn about their culture and get insights while enjoying a gastronomical experience. Read more to know about their local cuisine and some of the highly-recommended restaurants and food establishments near the area.
Local Cuisine
Palawan, in general, has a unique local cuisine. Luckily, you can try these dishes at various Puerto Princesa food establishments. Crocodile sisig, which is made with crocodile meat, onion, and pepper, is a must-try. You must also taste tamilok, it's a dish wherein harvested woodworms are treated as raw seafood and cooked on vinegar. Don’t forget the cute little carinderias, those saviors for any traveler on a budget! Ask the locals for their pick, and you’re sure to find one that serves fresh seafood catch (among others) in well-loved Filipino cuisines.
Recommended Best Restaurants and Bars
There are a lot of restaurants and bars in Puerto Princesa. Now that you know about their local cuisine, it’s time to order amongst other dishes in these highly recommended food establishments. Make sure to check them out if you have some time to do a gastronomic food adventure with your friends and family!
Kinabuch’s
Kinabuch is very popular among locals and travelers as they offer various local dishes and drinks that highlight their culture. They also offer exotic foods as well! It's where you can sample the tamilok, a wood-burrowing critter that is eaten raw. Whether you'll enjoy this or not depends on your taste, but the ambiance in the place itself is excellent.
Badjao Seafood Restaurant
If you're looking for one of the best seafood places outside, this is it. It's got everything you need for a good meal — a polished interior, alfresco ambiance, and delicious meals. Check out their excellent take on lobster and crab, along with local favorites such as Lapu-Lapu. It's located amidst mangroves, serving great scenic views as well.
Kalui Restaurant
This restaurant is popular because of the unique dining experience. You have to remove your shoes, and you have the option to eat bare-handed. Its rustic ambiance and beautiful interiors will surely make your visit extra special!
They have a Kalui Special of the Day set that is good for two people which includes fish steak, prawns, fish roll in Coco Cream, and veggies of the day. Enjoy the complimentary salad they serve, on a coconut bowl! Currency
The main currency used in Puerto Princesa is the Philippine Peso (PHP). Most Puerto Princesa major shops and establishments accept credit cards.
If you need cash, there are a lot of money changers in the city center available with a reasonable exchange rate. ATMs and banks are also available in the city center, as well as other establishments. Bring cash with you in small amounts in case you’re going to visit an island or rural attractions.
Language
Cuyunon is the primary dialect of Palawan locals, but the majority of them speak Filipino and English. It makes it easier for international travelers to communicate with them. Don't be shy; ask questions! Try saying it in a neutral accent though so you can convey your questions clearly to them.
What to Pack
Puerto Princesa has a tropical climate. It means that aside from bringing beachwear necessities such as swimsuit and slippers. You have to bring sunblock to protect you from the blazing heat of the sun.
You also need to bring a light jacket with you as it gets chilly at night. Bringing an umbrella would also be beneficial in case of light or heavy rainfall. Sample Itinerary in Puerto Princesa Depending on the type of excursion and the number of people traveling to Puerto Princesa, it's highly recommended to tour around the area for four days and three nights.
There are a lot of places to see within and outside the city center that you'll surely enjoy. This travel itinerary will help you maximize your trip as you join an eco-tour, go caving, shopping, island-hopping, firefly watching, and more activities in this fantastic part of Palawan.
Day 1: Arrival + Sightseeing + Firefly Watching
09:00 AM - Arrival, Check-in at Hotel
10:00 AM - Late breakfast
11:00 AM - Start of city sightseeing
12:00 NN - Lunch
01:00 PM - Continue tour
04:00 PM - Back to the hotel. Rest a bit and change clothes for the next activity
06:00 PM - Iwahig Fireflies watching with Dinner
08:00 PM - Go back to the hotel. Freshen up
09:00 PM - Visit the city center and have drinks
10:00 PM - Back at the hotel
Day 2: Island-Hopping + ATV
08:00 AM - Wake up, freshen up and prepare for a long day
09:00 AM - Breakfast
10:00 AM - Start of Honda Bay island-hopping
12:00 NN - Lunch
01:00 PM - Continue tour
04:00 PM - Back at the hotel. Change clothes
05:00 PM - Ride an ATV in Max Palawan or visit Palaweño Brewery
07:00 PM - Back at the hotel. Freshen up
08:00 PM - Dinner at Kalui or other restaurants within the city
09:30 PM - Back at the hotel
Day 3: Boat Tour + Outdoor Adventure
06:00 AM - Wake up, freshen up and prepare for a long day
06:30 AM - Breakfast
07:00 AM - Pick-up at the hotel
09:00 AM - Start of Underground River tour
10:00 AM - Early lunch
11:00 AM - Swim and wade around the waters. Enjoy the rest of the time in the river
03:00 PM - Start of Ugong Rock Adventure. Go spelunking and ziplining
07:00 PM - Back at the hotel. Freshen up
08:00 PM - Dinner at Kinabuch’s or other restaurants within the city
09:30 PM - Back at the hotel
Day 4: Shopping + Departure
06:00 AM - Wake up, freshen up and pack your bags
07:00 AM - Breakfast
08:00 AM - Go on a shopping trip for souvenirs
10:30 AM - Early lunch
11:30 AM - Check out
12:00 NN - ETD to the airport
01:30 PM - Departure
Explore the Natural Wonders of Puerto Princesa!
Puerto Princesa is one of the best places to visit when you’re in Palawan. Aside from the famed Underground River, there are many activities you can do, ranging from outdoor to water, and from sightseeing to swimming. Bookmark this article so you’ll be able to have a handy guide with you during your trip to this beautiful city in Palawan!
Start planning your trip so you can finally relax and unwind in the beautiful city of Puerto Princesa, Palawan. Check out Puerto Princesa tours and activities that you can add to your itinerary.
