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Puerto Princesa
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🇵🇭 Philippines

Puerto Princesa

Gateway to Palawan's Pristine Wonders — Puerto Princesa serves as the vibrant capital of Palawan, a gateway to unparalleled natural beauty. This city is renowned for its ecotourism initiatives, stunning underground river, and warm, welcoming atmosphere.

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Puerto Princesa in 60 seconds

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  • 📍Top places to visit: Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, Honda Bay, Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center
  • 🍽️What to eat: Crocodile Sisig, Tamilok, Kinilaw
  • 🗓️Best time to visit: The dry season from November to May offers sunny days ideal for exploring.

Good to know

Best time to visit
The dry season from November to May offers sunny days ideal for exploring. Expect warm temperatures year-round with occasional rainfall.
Getting around
Tricycles are the most common mode of transport for short distances, while vans and buses connect to further destinations. Renting a motorbike is also an option for independent exploration.
Currency
Philippine Peso (PHP). ATMs are widely available, but it's wise to carry some cash for smaller establishments and rural areas.
Language
Tagalog and Cuyonon are the primary languages. English is widely understood and spoken, especially in tourist areas.
Safety
Puerto Princesa is generally a safe city. Exercise standard precautions, be aware of your surroundings, and secure your belongings.
Daily budget
Budget: $30-50, Midrange: $50-100 per day
💶 Travel money in Puerto PrincesaCurrency, cards vs cash, costs & tipping in Puerto Princesa
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Top places to visit

1Park

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park features a spectacular cave system with an underground river, showcasing incredible rock formations and diverse wildlife.

2Beach

Honda Bay

A beautiful bay dotted with islands, offering pristine beaches, snorkeling, and island-hopping tours to places like Starfish Island and Luli Island.

3Park

Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center

Also known as the Crocodile Farm, this center rehabilitates and breeds endangered species, including the Philippine Crocodile and various birds.

4Viewpoint

Mitra's Ranch

A sprawling estate with rolling hills and stunning panoramic views of Honda Bay, offering a peaceful escape and photo opportunities.

5Café

Bakers' Hill

A popular spot offering delicious pastries and snacks, set amidst beautiful gardens with scenic views, perfect for a relaxing break.

6Park

Baywalk

A vibrant promenade along the bay, ideal for evening strolls, enjoying street food, and watching the sunset.

7Landmark

Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm

A unique open-pen penal colony where inmates live and work freely, offering a glimpse into an alternative approach to rehabilitation.

8Activity

Mc2 Quad Bike Adventure

An thrilling ATV adventure through jungle trails and scenic routes, providing an adrenaline rush and unique perspective of the landscape.

9Landmark

City Coliseum

A large indoor arena that hosts various local events, sports competitions, and cultural performances.

10Temple

Immaculate Conception Cathedral

A striking neo-gothic cathedral in the heart of the city, known for its distinct architecture and vibrant interior.

11Restaurant

Kinabuch's Grill and Bar

A popular local eatery famous for its exotic dishes, including crocodile sisig, and its lively atmosphere.

12Shopping

NCCC Mall

A major shopping destination offering a wide array of goods, from local handicrafts to international brands, plus dining options.

13Restaurant

Ka Lui Restaurant

A highly-rated restaurant offering delicious seafood and Filipino cuisine in a beautifully decorated, artistic setting.

14Park

Balinsasayaw Butterfly Garden

A serene garden dedicated to the conservation and display of various butterfly species, offering a colorful and peaceful experience.

15Market

Puerto Princesa Market

A bustling local market where you can find fresh produce, seafood, local delicacies, souvenirs, and experience daily Palawan life.

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Things to do

Underground River Tour

Embark on a guided boat tour through the awe-inspiring Puerto Princesa Subterranean River.

Island Hopping in Honda Bay

Spend a day visiting the diverse islands and snorkeling spots around Honda Bay.

Try Local Cuisine

Savor unique Palawan dishes, including fresh seafood and exotic meats.

Visit the Crocodile Farm

Learn about reptile conservation and see various species at the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center.

Explore the City Proper

Wander through the city, visit the cathedral, and experience the local markets.

Go Ziplining

Experience the thrill of ziplining through the lush forests surrounding the city.

Where to stay

City Proper

The bustling heart of Puerto Princesa, ideal for first-time visitors seeking convenience to attractions, restaurants, and transport.

Honda Bay Area

Suits beach lovers and those seeking island-hopping adventures, offering proximity to boat tours.

National Highway Route

Good for budget travelers who want easy access to transport hubs and local eateries outside the main city center.

Sabang

Perfect for nature enthusiasts wanting to be closer to the Underground River entrance and enjoy a more tranquil environment.

What to eat

Crocodile Sisig

A local delicacy made from finely chopped crocodile meat, seasoned with onions, chili, and calamansi.

Tamilok

Woodworms harvested from mangrove trees, often eaten raw with vinegar, offering a unique, briny flavor.

Kinilaw

Filipino ceviche, typically made with fresh raw fish marinated in vinegar, onions, ginger, and chili.

La Paz Batchoy

A hearty noodle soup with pork, liver, and other innards, a flavorful and filling local favorite.

Fresh Seafood

Abundant and varied, enjoy grilled fish, prawns, crabs, and other marine delights.

Halo-Halo

A popular Filipino dessert made with shaved ice, milk, sweet beans, fruits, jellies, and topped with ice cream.

Day trips

El Nido

A stunning coastal town famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs, pristine beaches, and lagoon tours, roughly 5-6 hours by van.

Port Barton

A laid-back coastal village offering beautiful beaches, snorkeling, and island hopping, about 3-4 hours by van.

San Vicente

Home to the Long Beach, one of the longest white-sand beaches in Southeast Asia, about 2-3 hours by van.

Insider tips

  • Book the Underground River tour in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Bring reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent.
  • Stay hydrated; the climate is tropical and humid.
  • Learn a few basic Tagalog phrases.
  • Bargain respectfully in markets.
  • Embrace the local transport; tricycles are an experience!

Traveler reviews

4.8
★★★★★
5 traveler reviews
M
Maria G.
Spain
★★★★★
last month

Puerto Princesa truly captured my heart! The Underground River tour was absolutely breathtaking, a must-do experience. We also loved exploring the Honda Bay islands, especially Cowrie Island, and the fresh seafood grilled right on the beach was divine.

K
Kenji T.
Japan
★★★★★
in April

What an incredible trip! The bioluminescence tour at night was magical, like swimming amongst the stars. We spent a day kayaking through the mangroves and learned so much about the local ecosystem. The people were so welcoming and the food, especially the Kinilaw, was unforgettable.

C
Chloe D.
France
★★★★☆
two months ago

Puerto Princesa offers a wonderful blend of natural beauty and adventure. The Underground River is impressive, though it can get crowded. We enjoyed the island hopping very much and found the local handicrafts charming. A great destination for nature lovers.

D
David R.
United States
★★★★★
in May

Absolutely loved our time in Puerto Princesa! El Nido might get the spotlight, but PP is fantastic. The wildlife we saw on a jungle trek was amazing, and the local market was a vibrant place to soak in the culture. The grilled pork belly was a highlight of our culinary journey.

A
Aisha K.
India
★★★★★
last year

Puerto Princesa exceeded all expectations. The firefly watching tour at night was a surreal experience that photos just can't capture. We also indulged in a 'Cañao' feast, a traditional Ilocano meal, which was a true cultural immersion. Highly recommend this gem of the Philippines.

Good to know — FAQ

How do I get to Puerto Princesa?
The most common way is by air, with daily flights from Manila and other major Philippine cities to Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS). You can also take a ferry from Manila, though this is a much longer journey.
Is Puerto Princesa suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, Puerto Princesa is generally considered safe and welcoming for solo travelers. Many tour operators cater to individuals, and public transport is easy to navigate.
What are the must-try activities?
A visit to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is essential. Island hopping in Honda Bay, visiting the Crocodile Farm, and enjoying the city's local cuisine are also highly recommended.
Can I drink the tap water?
It is not recommended to drink tap water in Puerto Princesa. Stick to bottled water, which is readily available in stores and restaurants, or use water purification methods if necessary.

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