Philippines hits 4 million visitors; new policies ease travel to Palawan including El Nido, aiding Chinese tourists and charter flights.
Welcome to the Real Palawan Picture this: the sound of waves lapping against the limestone cliffs of El Nido, the aroma of freshly grilled fish wafting through Puerto Princesa's lively markets, and the warmth of the midday sun on your skin as you stroll along the white sands of Nacpan Beach. This is Palawan, not just a destination, but a living, breathing scene of life and nature.
Cinematic drone footage over Palawan — landmarks, rooftops and streets from the air.
Video: Pinoy Travel Freak Vlog on YouTube
Read the full aerial guidePicture this: the sound of waves lapping against the limestone cliffs of El Nido, the aroma of freshly grilled fish wafting through Puerto Princesa's lively markets, and the warmth of the midday sun on your skin as you stroll along the white sands of Nacpan Beach. This is Palawan, not just a destination, but a living, breathing scene of life and nature.
Wander down Rizal Avenue in Puerto Princesa, where the clatter of tricycles blends with the laughter of children playing in the streets. Here, you can dive into the local culinary scene with our 60 restaurant listings, each offering a taste of Palawan's soul. Try the tangy goodness of kinilaw or the hearty warmth of a bowl of bulalo. From the sizzling sisig at Kinabuch's Grill and Bar to the savory delights at KaLui, your taste buds are in for a treat.
Palawan is more than just its beaches. Our 30 in-depth travel guide articles bring you closer to the heart of the island's experiences. If you're trekking through the lush landscapes of the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park or kayaking in the clear waters of Coron, these guides provide practical tips and honest insights. Experience the rhythmic sway of bamboo groves and the cool shade of mangroves, offering respite from the tropical heat.
The islands of Palawan are alive with the songs of exotic birds and the whispers of the wind through coconut palms. Feel the crunch of coral fragments underfoot as you walk the shorelines, or the cooling embrace of the sea as you take a dip in its crystal-clear waters. At dusk, as the sky blazes with oranges and purples, the air fills with the scent of roasting lechon, signaling the start of evening gatherings.
As you plan your visit, remember that Palawan's beauty lies not just in the obvious, but in the small, everyday moments. Keep an eye out for the little sari-sari stores that dot each barangay, offering everything from snacks to sunblock. Don't shy away from striking up a conversation with a local; you're likely to receive a helpful tip or two about the best places to catch the sunrise or where to find the freshest seafood.
Palawan is a place where natural beauty and lively culture coexist, waiting for you to make it your own. If you're here for a weekend or an extended stay, our website offers the tools you need to navigate the island's many wonders. So pack your bags and prepare for an adventure that's as real as it gets.
Palawan in context — see the neighbouring countries and the region your trip sits within. Zoom in to explore cities, regions and major roads inside the country.
5 towns and cities to visit
Towering karsts, hidden lagoons, and sunsets behind Cadlao Island - Palawan at its most dramatic.
WWII shipwreck diving, crystal-clear Kayangan Lake, and jungle hot springs on a remote island.
Palawan's capital and gateway to the UNESCO Underground River, mangrove forests, and fresh seafood.
The unhurried fishing village El Nido used to be - reef snorkeling, hammock bars, zero crowds.
Home to the Philippines' longest white sand beach at 14km - still blissfully uncrowded.
Every guide here comes out of trips we actually took. Read how this site gets made.
Towering karsts, hidden lagoons, and sunsets behind Cadlao Island - Palawan at its most dramatic.
WWII shipwreck diving, crystal-clear Kayangan Lake, and jungle hot springs on a remote island.
Palawan's capital and gateway to the UNESCO Underground River, mangrove forests, and fresh seafood.
The unhurried fishing village El Nido used to be - reef snorkeling, hammock bars, zero crowds.
Home to the Philippines' longest white sand beach at 14km - still blissfully uncrowded.
Philippines hits 4 million visitors; new policies ease travel to Palawan including El Nido, aiding Chinese tourists and charter flights.
The Lind Hotels will open a new resort in Coron, Palawan, affecting accommodation choices for El Nido travelers.
Palawan's tourism receipts hit ₱22B from 450k visitors, signaling key impacts for El Nido travelers in 2026.
It is a visit to the Underground River of Puerto Princesa City subterreanean River National Park is a World Heritage Site inscribed by UNESCO. The Worlds Longest Navigable Underground River and Now one of the 7 Wonders of Nature. The Underground river with its spectacular rock stalactites and stalagmites formation that made it to be among the UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE and awarded as RAMSAR site. By booking this tour you have helped the community - The Ugong Rock- One of the Sustainable Tourism project of the government being managed by residents of Barangay Tagabenit, primarily composed of Batak Tribe and Tagbanua indigenous peoples. The Tagabinet Ugong Rock Tourism Service Cooperative who are also employees of Ugong rock. After it become tourist destination and the involvement of the community they embraced ecotourism The people in the community were given livelihood and the community is now involved in tree planting they also help in protecting the environment.
See the places locals frequent and understand why living in this city is a blessing in itself. The tour will take you to eight locations, namely: Plaza Cuartel, Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Baylwalk, Crocodile Farm, Rancho Sta. Monica, Baker's Hill, Pasalubong Center and Binuatan Creations Weaving Center. Enjoy a local favorite, hopia, a pastry with different fillings! You'll also be able to see a beautiful view of the City at one of its highest points. The price of the tour includes entrance fees for all destination, light snacks, service of a professional tour guide and your van transfers.
Explore the world-famous Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. This enchanting underground river tour offers a rare chance to navigate through a limestone cave system teeming with stunning rock formations, mysterious caverns, and unique wildlife. Immerse yourself in the pristine beauty of nature, as you glide along one of the longest navigable underground rivers in the world—a true must-see for adventurers and nature lovers!
Smaller group sizes often make for a more engaging and comfortable experience, allowing you to connect better with your guide and other travelers. Unique itineraries or off-the-beaten-path city tours that mainstream operators might not cover. Such as history, and hidden gems of the city. Discover hidden gems of the city. This expertise can make your tour more insightful and enriching compared to more generic option
The underground river is known as one of the Worlds 7 wonders of Nature. It is a UNESCO World heritage site. Puerto Princesa City Subterreanean River National Park is a World Heritage Site inscribed by UNESCO on December 4, 1999. The Worlds Longest Navigable Underground River and Now one of the & Wonders of Nature. The primary tour destination PPUR has the worlds navigable Underground river with its spectacular rock stalactites and stalagmites formation that made it to be among the UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE and awarded as RAMSAR site. Tour is non refundable if cancelled by guests. IF the tour operator has to cancel the tour due to bad weather conditions we will send you a refund.
Enter the exotic and breathtaking world of the underground river by paddle boat for 45 - 60 minutes. Equipped with a search light you will enter a mystical environment exploring the pitch-dark inner recesses of this cavern. Every turn in this underground river tour provide fascinating different rock formations.
Cities and destinations across Palawan — click a pin to explore.
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