Palawan Hiking & Trekking Guide 2025
Explore the best hiking trails and trekking routes in Palawan.
Palawan is a pristine island province in the western Philippines, often called the Philippines' Last Frontier for its untouched natural beauty. Home to the UNESCO-listed Puerto Princesa Subterranean River and the stunning limestone karst landscapes of El Nido and Coron, Palawan offers some of Southeast Asia's most dramatic scenery. Its turquoise lagoons, vibrant coral reefs, and white-sand beaches consistently earn it recognition as one of the world's best island destinations.
Top Hiking Trails
The best hikes Palawan has to offer.
Cleopatra's Needle Summit Trek
hardThe ascent of Palawan's highest peak through primary rainforest is the most demanding and rewarding trek in the province. The dense jungle is home to the Palawan peacock-pheasant, Palawan hornbill, and endemic mammals. The trail passes through different forest zones with changing vegetation as altitude increases.
Kayangan Lake Trail
easyA short but steep concrete stepped path from the Coron Island shoreline to the iconic viewpoint overlooking Kayangan Lake and Coron Bay. The trail is well-maintained and passable for most fitness levels, rewarding hikers with one of Palawan's most photographed views.
Tapyas Mountain Coron
moderateThe 700+ concrete steps leading to the cross-topped summit of Tapyas Mountain are a Coron institution. The climb is steady and rewarded with 360-degree views over Coron Bay, the Calamian Islands, and the town below. Particularly beautiful at sunrise.
Sabang-Puerto Princesa Underground River Trek
easyThe trail from Sabang beach through mangrove forest to the Puerto Princesa Underground River entrance is a scenic walk with opportunities to spot monitor lizards, long-tailed macaques, and numerous bird species along the boardwalk.
El Nido Taraw Cliff
hardThe challenging scramble up Taraw Cliff behind El Nido town is one of the most rewarding viewpoints in the Bacuit Archipelago. The trail involves ropes, bouldering, and hands-and-feet climbing through limestone formations with breathtaking aerial views of El Nido's island-studded bay.
Nacpan Beach Headland Walk
easyA leisurely walk along 4km Nacpan Beach at low tide, continuing over the headland to Calitang Beach at the north end. The trail over the headland involves a short steep section with views of both beaches from above, ideal for sunset photography.
Coron Island Forest Trail
moderateA guided trail through Coron Island's dense lowland forest visiting multiple lakes and viewpoints. The forest path passes through Tagbanua sacred territory with endemic birds including the Calamian deer and various hornbills in the limestone karst forest.
Underground River Nature Trail Sabang
easyA nature trail through tropical forest from Sabang village to Ugong Rock and surrounding jungle viewpoints. The trail passes through secondary forest with good birding opportunities and encounters with Palawan wildlife including monitor lizards.
Mount Bloomfield Puerto Princesa Trail
moderateA forested trail ascending through Puerto Princesa's municipal forest to viewpoints over the bay and surrounding lowlands. The trail passes through a well-preserved secondary forest and is one of the best birdwatching hikes near the city.
Estrella Waterfalls Trek
moderateA river-valley trek through bamboo groves and tropical forest to the multi-tiered Estrella Falls near Aborlan, south of Puerto Princesa. The falls are spectacular after rains and the surrounding forest has good wildlife sightings. Access involves a short boat ride and jungle walk.
Trails by Difficulty
Find trails that match your fitness level.
🟢 Easy
Well-marked paths with minimal elevation change, suitable for all fitness levels including children. Completed in under 2 hours.
🟡 Moderate
Some elevation gain or rough terrain requiring reasonable fitness. Good footwear recommended. 2-4 hours.
🟠 Challenging
Steep sections, significant elevation gain, or technical terrain requiring good fitness and experience. 4+ hours.
🔴 Expert
Technical rock scrambling, rope sections, or multi-day wilderness trekking requiring guides and preparation.
Complete Hiking Guide
Detailed trail descriptions, packing checklists, and route recommendations.
Hiking Preparation
What to bring and how to prepare.
Essential Gear
Day Hikes
- Sturdy hiking boots/shoes
- Plenty of water (2-3 liters)
- Snacks and lunch
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
- Rain layer/jacket
- First aid kit
- Navigation (map, GPS, phone)
- Flashlight/headlamp
Multi-Day Treks
- All day hike essentials plus:
- Backpack (40-60L)
- Tent or shelter
- Sleeping bag and pad
- Cooking equipment
- Water purification
- Extra clothing layers
- Emergency supplies
Physical Preparation
- Start training weeks before challenging hikes
- Build up endurance with regular cardio
- Practice on local trails with elevation gain
- Break in new boots before the trip
- Acclimatize to altitude gradually if needed
Hiking Safety
Stay safe on the trails.
Always tell someone your hiking plans and expected return time. Carry emergency communication device in remote areas.
Check weather conditions before setting out. Turn back if conditions deteriorate. Never underestimate mountains.
Stay on marked trails. Getting lost in unfamiliar terrain can be dangerous. Carry navigation tools.
Be aware of wildlife. Research local animals and know how to respond to encounters.
Start early to allow plenty of daylight. Always aim to be back before dark.
Local Hazards
- Sun exposure on exposed limestone ridges — bring sunscreen and hat
- Dehydration — bring at least 2 liters of water per person
- Slippery limestone when wet — proper footwear is essential
- Loose rocks on mountain trails — maintain distance from the person ahead
- Wasps and insects in forest trails — insect repellent recommended
- Leeches during wet season — wear long socks on jungle trails
- No cell service in remote mountain and forest areas
Best Time to Hike
Plan your hiking adventure for optimal conditions.
🌸 Spring
March-May: Excellent conditions with dry weather, clear skies, and manageable heat. Best for summit treks.
☀️ Summer
June-August: Wet season — trails become muddy and slippery. Waterfall treks are most dramatic but conditions are challenging.
🍂 Fall
September-November: Improving weather from October. November is excellent for trekking.
❄️ Winter
December-February: Best season for most hikes. Dry and clear with cool mornings at altitude.
Explore Palawan's Trails
Get our complete hiking guide with GPS routes, difficulty ratings, and local tips.
Download Hiking Guide