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.
Quick Overview
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
Best Places to Visit in Palawan
Discover the top 5 must-see destinations in Palawan, from iconic landmarks to off-the-beaten-path treasures.
Puerto Princesa Underground River
Honda Bay Island Hopping
Calauit Safari Park
Palawan Wildlife Rescue Center
Nacpan Beach
Recommended Itineraries for Palawan
Plan your perfect Palawan trip with our expertly crafted itineraries for every travel style and duration.
5-Day Palawan Explorer
- Day 1: Arrive in Palawan, explore city center
- Day 2: Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3: Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4: Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5: Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Palawan
- Days 1-2: Palawan city highlights
- Days 3-4: Regional exploration
- Days 5-6: Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7: Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Palawan
- Days 1-3: Palawan comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6: Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9: Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12: Southern attractions
- Days 13-14: Return to Palawan, departure
Where to Stay in Palawan
From luxury resorts to budget-friendly options, Palawan offers accommodations for every traveler.
Budget Options ($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
Harana Beach Resort
El Nido Cove Resort
Where to Eat in Palawan
Discover the culinary delights of Palawan, from local street food to fine dining experiences.
Kinabuchs
Ka Lui
Happiness Beach Bar
Medes Restaurant
Getting Around Palawan
Budget Breakdown for Palawan
Plan your spending with our comprehensive cost guide. Currency: PHP.
| 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
Best Season: December to April for calm seas and reliable weather
Avoid: June to September — typhoon risk, many boat tours cancelled
Essential Travel Tips for Palawan
- 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
Travel Advisory
The Philippines as a country has a Level 2 advisory (Exercise Increased Caution) from the US State Department. Palawan Province is broadly safe for tourism, though remote southern areas near the Sulu Sea have historically had security concerns related to armed groups. The main tourist areas (Puerto Princesa, El Nido, Coron) have no active security advisories as of 2025.
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
What is the best time to visit Palawan?
The best time to visit Palawan is December to April for calm seas and reliable weather. June to September — typhoon risk, many boat tours cancelled may have less favorable conditions.
Do I need a visa for Palawan?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Check with your nearest embassy or consulate for Palawan for current requirements before travel.
How many days do I need in Palawan?
For a comprehensive Palawan experience, we recommend 7-10 days. However, you can have a great trip in 5 days focusing on highlights.
Is Palawan expensive to visit?
Budget travelers can expect $40 per day, mid-range $120, and luxury $350.