Puerto Princesa Subterranean River
UNESCO World Heritage underground river navigable by boat
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About Palawan
Palawan stretches over 1,700 islands and islets along the western edge of the Philippine archipelago, offering an extraordinary blend of underwater biodiversity, jungle-covered mountains, and crystalline seas. The province is divided into three main tourist areas: Puerto Princesa (gateway city and home of the underground river), El Nido (known for hidden lagoons and island-hopping), and Coron (renowned for World War II shipwreck diving). Palawan has consistently ranked among the world's top island destinations by major travel publications and was named TripAdvisor's Top Trending Destination in 2024.
- Capital
- Puerto Princesa City
- Largest city
- Puerto Princesa City
- Population
- 1.1 million
- Languages
- Filipino, English, Cuyonon, Tagalog, Agutaynen
- Currency
- Philippine Peso
- Time zone
- PST (UTC+8)
Explore Palawan by topic
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in Palawan
The 5 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
El Nido Big Lagoon
Stunning turquoise lagoon surrounded by towering limestone cliffs
Coron Shipwreck Diving
World-class WWII Japanese shipwreck dive sites
Nacpan Beach
4km of pristine white sand backed by coconut palms
Kayangan Lake
Emerald-green lake inside Coron Island accessible by short hike
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
5-Day Palawan Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in Palawan, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Palawan
- Days 1-2Palawan city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Palawan
- Days 1-3Palawan comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to Palawan, departure
Where to stay in Palawan
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget $40
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-range $120
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury $350
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
The Funny Lion El Nido
Check rates on Booking.comHarana Beach Resort
Check rates on Booking.comEl Nido Cove Resort
Check rates on Booking.comWhere to eat in Palawan
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Kinabuchs
Ka Lui
Happiness Beach Bar
Medes Restaurant
Getting around Palawan
Transportation options in Palawan include local buses, taxis, and rental cars. Check local conditions before planning your travel.
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in PHP, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $12 | $55 | $200 |
| Food (per day) | $10 | $30 | $80 |
| Transportation | $8 | $15 | $40 |
| Activities | $10 | $20 | $30 |
| Daily total | $40 | $120 | $350 |
Best time to visit Palawan
December to April for calm seas and reliable weather
Essential travel tips
- Book flights and accommodation well in advance during peak season (Dec-Feb)
- Island-hopping tours fill up fast; book the day before or early morning
- Bring cash as ATMs are limited outside Puerto Princesa
- Respect marine reserves and practice responsible snorkeling
Safety information
Children's life jackets are available on all licensed boats — always confirm before booking
Keep children in shade between 10AM and 3PM — equatorial sun burns quickly
Bring oral rehydration salts — children can dehydrate faster than adults in tropical heat
Register with your embassy if venturing to remote areas of Palawan
Palawan Doctors Hospital Puerto Princesa is the best medical resource — keep contact saved
Frequently asked questions
Is Palawan safe to visit in 2026?
Palawan is generally considered one of the safer destinations in the Philippines for tourists, with the main tourist areas of Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron experiencing low levels of serious crime. The primary risks are weather-related maritime incidents, petty theft, and health issues from the tropical environment. Emergency services: police at 117, medical at 911 or Palawan Doctors Hospital: +63 48 433 2150.
What is the best time to visit Palawan?
The best time to visit Palawan is November to April. Palawan has a tropical monsoon climate with two distinct seasons: the dry season (November-May) and the wet season (June-October). Unlike most of the Philippines, Palawan is partly sheltered from Paci
Do I need a visa to visit Palawan?
Entry requirements follow Philippines national rules. Citizens of many countries receive a 30-day visa-free entry, extendable at local immigration offices. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
What currency is used in Palawan?
The currency in Palawan is the Philippine Peso (PHP). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in Palawan?
The main language(s) spoken in Palawan: Filipino, English, Cuyonon. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
What are the top attractions in Palawan?
The top attractions in Palawan include Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, El Nido Big Lagoon, El Nido Small Lagoon, Coron Island Kayangan Lake, and Coron WWII Japanese Shipwrecks. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.