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 trails
Routes worth lacing up your boots for.
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1
Cleopatra's Needle Summit Trek
The 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.
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2
Kayangan Lake Trail
A 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.
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3
Tapyas Mountain Coron
The 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.
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4
Sabang-Puerto Princesa Underground River Trek
The 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.
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5
El Nido Taraw Cliff
The 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.
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6
Nacpan Beach Headland Walk
A 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.
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7
Coron Island Forest Trail
A 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.
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8
Underground River Nature Trail Sabang
A 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.
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9
Mount Bloomfield Puerto Princesa Trail
A 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.
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10
Estrella Waterfalls Trek
A 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.
Trail difficulty levels
Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.
Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.
Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.
Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.
Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.
When to hike
Seasonal conditions in Palawan.
- 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.
Local hazards
What to watch out for on the trail.
Hazard: Sun exposure on exposed limestone ridges — bring sunscreen and hat
Hazard: Dehydration — bring at least 2 liters of water per person
Hazard: Slippery limestone when wet — proper footwear is essential
Hazard: Loose rocks on mountain trails — maintain distance from the person ahead
Hazard: Wasps and insects in forest trails — insect repellent recommended
Hazard: Leeches during wet season — wear long socks on jungle trails
Hazard: No cell service in remote mountain and forest areas