Destination highlights

The city of Puerto Princesa, is the capital of the island of Palawan, one of the best islands on the planet, located approximately 500 kilometers from the Philippine capital, Manila. It is a paradisiacal destination, offering from beautiful beaches to jungles and mountains. It shows the beauty of nature at its best, being considered one of the most important destinations in the Philippines, perfect for relaxing and enjoying wonderful landscapes and attractions.

At present, there are still several theories about the provenience of his name, some assure that it is due to a beautiful princess who used to walk around the island at night, while others claim that his name was chosen by the Spanish colonizers. However, regardless of the origin of the title of this beautiful place, proclaimed as a city officially in the year 1970.

Puerto Princesa is one of the most charming tourist spots, not only of the Philippines, but of the whole world. This, of course, thanks to its ecological and natural splendor: lagoons, waterfalls, bays, limestones, spectacular flora and fauna, and most importantly, the underground or Puerto Princesa river, which was even declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1999, and one of the seven natural wonders of the world since 2011. Simply, a destination that no traveler lover of nature, should miss.

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Travel tips

Whether from Manila, Davao, Coron or Cebu, travelers have the opportunity to get to Puerto Princesa by ferry or plane, taking into account that it is in this city where the most important airport of Palawan Island is located. Due to its extraordinary beauty and biodiversity, the underground river of Puerto Princesa, is usually the main reason for tourists to visit this beautiful city; This is located approximately two hours away, in the town of Sabang. Travelers have the option of making their trip through the excursions offered by the various agencies in the area, however, they can also do it on their own, always taking into consideration that this river is a National Park, so, the Exploration is carried out in small groups of maximum eight people.

In addition, they must have a guide, which will be responsible for explaining and letting them know all the details in English. The visits are limited, so the quotas for this walk of approximately forty-five minutes must be reserved in advance. In addition to this, trekking fans can find the Jungle Trail or Monkey Trail, a route of around six kilometers in length, where you can witness the nature and biodiversity that characterizes this beautiful place. That said, it is important to note that in addition to visiting the underground river, travelers can enjoy activities and attractions in the city and its surroundings. Among these, one finds, for example, rejoicing with the Firefly Watching of Ihawag, where you can observe fireflies on the shores of the most fascinating waters, what the inhabitants of the area call “the natural Christmas tree”.

Enjoy an amazing boardwalk, better known as City Bywalk, and visit the Crocodile Breeding Institute known as “Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center (Crocodile Farm)” and learn about the world from these amazing reptiles. On the other hand, for those interested in knowing the history and culture of Puerto Princesa and Palawan Island in general, the perfect place is the World War II Monument Museum, which, despite not being a main tourist attraction. A very interesting place shows the past of the region, as well as Barracks Square and the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. Another curious place is the prison of Ihawig (Ihawig Prison and Criminal Farm), which aims to promote rehabilitation through the design and production of handicrafts and agricultural work.

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It should be noted that in Puerto Princesa, visitors will be delighted with its beautiful scenery, but above all, with the magical beaches that surround it. For example, Nagtabon Beach, a hidden paradise, located approximately 24 kilometers from Puerto Princesa; the tranquility and the unparalleled beauty of its waters has made many of its visitors consider it the best beach they have seen. Other nearby beaches include Napsan and Marufinas. On the other hand, the deep bay, near Puerto Princesa, is also essential for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts, in it there are a lot of small islands, endowed with great biodiversity, such as Starfish Island, where They can observe starfish of all sizes and colors.

Last but not least, thanks to the diversity of marine species existing in the Philippines, it is entirely possible to swim with whale sharks in Puerto Princesa, in a responsible manner and protecting the life and welfare of the animal, an exceptional experience for adventurous travelers, and lovers of maritime life. When making the excursion, the guides of the same one will be in charge to give them to know the form in which the activity must be carried out Certain practices that must be fulfilled, as for example, not to touch or to harass the animal, to be careful and to avoid frighten him, not pollute the sea, among others. For all the above, and more, it is worth spending some time in the capital of one of the most beautiful islands in the world, especially for those who seek to know places full of life, and exceptional experiences related to the natural world.

Hotel recommendations

Puerto Princesa has a good offer of accommodation, for all tastes and budgets. Some travelers recommend the Balay Tuko Garden Inn, the Deep Forest Garden Hotel, the beautiful views of Marinade Bay, located just 20 minutes from the airport, the Legend Hotel, perfect and convenient to tour the city, the Balsahan River Swimming Resort, Dallas Inn, and Blue Lagoon Inn & Suites.

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