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Palawan (Philippines)
Palawan in the Philippines offers crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and lush forests. Explore El Nido, Coron, and Puerto Princesa for a breathtaking tropical retreat.
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Summary
Neighboring Countries
Did you know?
Underground River – Palawan is home to the Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Overview
Months
12. December, 01. January, 02. February, 03. March, 04. April, 05. May
Vacation type
Beach, Couple, Family, Hiking, Nature
Expenses
0-50€, <100€, <150€, <200€, Over 200€
Temperature
25-30°C, Over 30°C
Rainfall
0-50mm
Safety
Safe
Continent
Asia
Currency
Philippine peso
Languages
English, Filipino
Currency Converter
When to visit
The best time to visit Palawan is during the dry season, from November to May. This period offers sunny weather, calm seas, and ideal conditions for beach activities, island-hopping, and exploring Palawan’s beautiful landscapes.
- December to March: This is the peak season, with the most comfortable temperatures (around 77–86°F or 25–30°C) and minimal rain, perfect for activities like diving, snorkeling, and boat tours.
- April to May: These months are also good for visiting, though they tend to be warmer. It’s still dry, with vibrant marine life and clear skies, making it a popular time for tourists.
The rainy season from June to October brings heavier rains, occasional typhoons, and rougher seas, especially from July to September.
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Plan the whole vacation, including flights, transportation, hotels and tours with Expedia *
Climate Data
Peak Season (December to April)
Average Sunny Hours per Day: 8 to 10 hours.
Rain Frequency: Rare, mostly dry during these months.
Rainy Hours per Day: Less than 1 hour.
Intensity: Light showers, if any.
Duration: Brief, typically lasting less than 30 minutes.
Off-Peak Season (May to November)
Average Sunny Hours per Day: 6 to 8 hours.
Rain Frequency: Frequent, particularly during the monsoon season.
Rainy Hours per Day: 2 to 3 hours.
Intensity: Heavy, often with thunderstorms.
Duration: Rain can last several hours, usually in the afternoon.
Climate Chart
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Data Source: CRU Time Series v4.07
https://catalogue.ceda.ac.uk/uuid/5fda109ab71947b6b7724077bf7eb753
ClimateCharts.net
Weather, Crowds and Costs
Per one person
Tourist Season: December-May (Dry Season)
Budget Vacation ($30-70/day)
Accommodation: $10-30/night (budget hostels, guesthouses).
Food: $10-20/day (local food, street food).
Activities: $10-20/day (beach activities, boat tours).
Transportation: $5-10/day (local transport, tricycles).
Other Costs: $5/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($70-150/day)
Accommodation: $30-70/night (mid-range hotels, beachfront resorts).
Food: $15-30/day (restaurants, cafes).
Activities: $20-40/day (island hopping, guided tours).
Transportation: $10-20/day (taxis, private transport).
Other Costs: $10-15/day (shopping, souvenirs).
Luxury Vacation ($150+/day)
Accommodation: $70+/night (luxury resorts, high-end villas).
Food: $30+/day (fine dining).
Activities: $30+/day (private tours, luxury experiences).
Transportation: $20+/day (private transport, car rentals).
Other Costs: $15+/day (luxury shopping).
Off-Peak Season: June-November (Rainy Season)
Budget Vacation ($20-50/day)
Accommodation: $10-20/night (budget hostels, local guesthouses).
Food: $5-15/day (local meals).
Activities: $5-15/day (sightseeing, nature tours).
Transportation: $5-10/day (local transport, tricycles).
Other Costs: $5/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($50-100/day)
Accommodation: $20-50/night (mid-range hotels, guesthouses).
Food: $10-30/day (restaurants, cafes).
Activities: $15-30/day (tours, island excursions).
Transportation: $10-15/day (private transport).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs).
Luxury Vacation ($100+/day)
Accommodation: $50+/night (luxury resorts, private villas).
Food: $20+/day (fine dining).
Activities: $20+/day (private excursions, luxury experiences).
Transportation: $15+/day (private taxis).
Other Costs: $10+/day (luxury shopping).
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You can find accomendations that fit your trip and budget on Booking.com, Vrbo and Hotels.com
Best Regions to visit
Cities
1. Puerto Princesa
– The capital city, known for the Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. The city also has great restaurants, markets, and eco-parks.
2. El Nido
– Famous for its breathtaking limestone cliffs, crystal-clear lagoons, and white sand beaches, El Nido is a hub for island-hopping tours around the Bacuit Archipelago. It’s ideal for beach lovers and water activities like snorkeling and diving.
3. Coron
– Known for its vibrant coral reefs, WWII shipwreck diving sites, and stunning Kayangan Lake. Coron is perfect for divers and nature enthusiasts, with picturesque lagoons, hidden beaches, and the nearby Maquinit Hot Springs.
4. Port Barton
– A quieter coastal village with beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and a laid-back vibe. It’s great for snorkeling, island-hopping, and those seeking a peaceful escape from busier tourist spots.
5. San Vicente
– Home to Long Beach, one of the longest white-sand beaches in the Philippines, stretching over 14 kilometers. It’s less developed than El Nido and offers a more tranquil experience with beautiful coastlines.
Did you know?
Coral Triangle – It’s part of the Coral Triangle, with some of the world’s most diverse marine life.
Islands
1. Miniloc Island (El Nido)
– Known for its famous Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon, where you can kayak through crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs.
2. Coron Island
– Famous for Kayangan Lake (considered the cleanest lake in the Philippines) and Twin Lagoon, as well as excellent diving spots with WWII shipwrecks and vibrant coral reefs.
3. Matinloc Island (El Nido)
– Home to the Secret Beach and Hidden Beach, along with Matinloc Shrine, which offers stunning views of the Bacuit Archipelago.
4. Cowrie Island (Puerto Princesa)
– A beautiful, laid-back island close to Puerto Princesa, great for snorkeling, jet skiing, and enjoying white sand beaches without a long boat ride.
5. Pamalican Island
– Known for the luxurious Amanpulo Resort, Pamalican is a secluded paradise with pristine beaches, stunning reefs, and a more exclusive atmosphere.
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Find the perfect place to stay in any of these top cities and islands with Booking.com, Hotels.com and Vrbo – offering entire homes and apartments for a comfortable and private experience.
Coron Island
Things to see
Natural Attractions
1. Puerto Princesa Underground River
– A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, this subterranean river flows through a cave system filled with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Boat tours take you through the stunning formations and unique rock chambers.
2. Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon (El Nido)
– Located on Miniloc Island, these lagoons are surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and offer crystal-clear waters ideal for kayaking and snorkeling.
3. Kayangan Lake (Coron)
– Known as the cleanest lake in the Philippines, this lake is surrounded by cliffs and has emerald-green water perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The viewpoint over the lake is one of Palawan’s most iconic scenes.
4. Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park
– A UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Sulu Sea, this reef system is one of the Philippines’ best dive sites, known for its biodiversity, colorful coral formations, and abundant marine life.
5. Nacpan Beach (El Nido)
– A serene, expansive white-sand beach with crystal-clear waters, gentle waves, and palm-lined shores. It’s less crowded than other beaches, making it ideal for relaxing.
Historical and Cultural Attractions in Palawan:
1. Tabon Caves
– Known as the “Cradle of Philippine Civilization,” this cave complex in Quezon town contains ancient artifacts and human fossils dating back over 16,000 years. The caves provide insight into the country’s early inhabitants.
2. Culion Island
– Once a leper colony, Culion now has a museum showcasing its unique history, including the Culion Museum and Archives. It also has historical churches and beautiful beaches, blending history with natural beauty.
3. Iwahig Penal Colony
– A unique “prison without walls” where inmates work on farms and craft goods. Visitors can tour the colony to learn about its rehabilitative approach and support local inmates’ crafts.
4. Binuatan Weaving Center (Puerto Princesa)
– This weaving center showcases traditional Filipino weaving techniques, with products made from locally sourced materials. It’s a great place to learn about Filipino handicrafts and buy souvenirs.
5. El Nido Town Market
– A bustling market where you can experience local culture, try Filipino street food, and shop for crafts and souvenirs. It’s a vibrant spot to experience daily life in Palawan.
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The best way to explore major cities and must-see attractions is by booking guided tours.* They offer convenience, local insights, and often save time when visiting popular sights.
Palawan
How to get around
1. Tricycles
– Affordable and readily available, tricycles are a common mode of transport within towns like Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron. They’re ideal for short trips, such as going between beaches, hotels, and town centers.
2. Jeepneys and Buses
– For travel between towns (e.g., Puerto Princesa to El Nido or Port Barton), buses and jeepneys are affordable options. However, they can be slower and less comfortable than private options.
3. Vans
– Shared vans are widely used for longer distances, such as the trip from Puerto Princesa to El Nido. They’re faster than buses but can be cramped, so some travelers opt for private van rentals for more space and flexibility.
4. Ferries and Boats
– To reach islands like Coron, ferries run between El Nido and Coron and from Manila to Coron. In popular spots like El Nido, boat tours (Tour A, B, C, and D) are a main way to explore the islands and lagoons.
5. Motorbikes and Scooters
– Renting a scooter is a popular way to explore areas like El Nido and Coron on your own schedule. It’s ideal for experienced riders as roads can be narrow or unpaved.
6. Flights
– For faster travel, domestic flights connect major spots: Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron (Busuanga). These are great for saving time on longer routes.
7. Bicycles
– In some areas, bicycles are available for rent, offering an eco-friendly and scenic way to explore beaches and town centers, especially in smaller, flatter areas.
For town transport, tricycles are easy and budget-friendly. For longer routes, vans and buses are common, while ferries and boat tours are essential for island-hopping.
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You can find great car rental deals for your vacation on Expedia *
Did you know?
Tubbataha Reefs – Known for the Tubbataha Reefs, one of the best diving spots globally.
What to eat
1. Tamilok
– Also known as woodworm, this exotic delicacy is actually a mollusk harvested from mangrove wood and is often eaten raw with vinegar. It's a popular local treat for adventurous eaters.
2. Crocodile Sisig
– A Palawan twist on the classic Filipino dish, this version uses crocodile meat, served sizzling with onions, peppers, and spices, offering a unique flavor and texture.
3. Nido Soup
– A delicacy made from bird’s nest, often served as a nourishing soup. Traditionally, it’s made from the nest of swiftlet birds found in limestone caves in El Nido.
4. Lato Seaweed Salad
– Also called “sea grapes” or “green caviar,” this local seaweed is served fresh with vinegar, onions, and tomatoes, offering a refreshing, ocean-flavored crunch.
5. Kinilaw
– A Filipino-style ceviche made with fresh fish marinated in vinegar, lime, and spices. It’s especially refreshing with Palawan’s fresh catch and is a perfect dish for the tropical climate.
Flights
Flight prices are approximate and vary by departure city, airline, and booking time. Check airlines or travel platforms for the latest details.
Main Airport: Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS)
Flight Prices and Seasons:
From Europe
- Average Round-Trip Cost: €600 to €1,100.
- Cheapest Months: January to March and September to November.
- Peak Prices: Summer (June to August) and December holidays.
From North America
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $700 to $1,200.
- Cheapest Months: January to March and September to November.
- Peak Prices: Summer and December holidays.
From Asia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $300 to $600.
- Cheapest Months: January to March and September to November.
- Peak Prices: Summer and December holidays.
From Australia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $400 to $800.
- Cheapest Months: January to March and September to November.
- Peak Prices: Summer and December holidays.
From Africa
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $600 to $1,000.
- Cheapest Months: January to March and September to November.
- Peak Prices: Summer and December holidays.
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You can find the best flight deals with Skyscanner or plan the whole vacation, including flights, transportation, hotels and tours with Expedia *
Airport Location
Visa
1. Visa-Free Entry for Many Nationalities
- Citizens from over 150 countries, including the US, EU, Canada, Australia, UK, and several others, can enter the Philippines visa-free for tourism or business for up to 30 days. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
2. Visa Extension
- Visitors who wish to stay longer can apply for a visa extension at a Philippines Bureau of Immigration office, often available in cities like Puerto Princesa. The extension can grant an additional 29 days or more, with fees applied.
3. For Stays Over 30 Days
- If you plan to stay beyond 59 days, you can apply for a longer tourist visa (such as a 59-day visa) at a Philippine embassy or consulate before traveling. Additional extensions are possible within the Philippines for longer stays.
4. Visa Requirements for Other Nationalities
- Travelers from countries that are not visa-exempt must apply for a tourist visa before arrival. Requirements generally include a valid passport, proof of onward travel, and sufficient funds.
5. Proof of Onward Travel
- Some airlines and immigration officers may ask for proof of onward travel (like a return ticket), especially for visitors on short-stay, visa-free entries.
Important things to know
1. Payments
- Currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP); cash is often preferred, but credit cards are accepted in major hotels and restaurants.
2. Tap Water
- Not recommended for drinking; opt for bottled or filtered water.
3. Electricity
- 220V with Type A and B plugs (similar to the US).
4. Tipping
- Not required but appreciated; a 10% tip is customary in restaurants.
5. SIM Cards
- Globe and Smart offer SIM cards with good coverage in most towns; available at airports and local shops.
6. Driving
- Drive on the right-hand side; scooters and tricycles are common for local travel.
Souveniers
1. Capiz Shell Products
- Palawan is known for its Capiz shells, which are often used to make stunning products like lamps, plates, and trays with a pearlescent finish.
2. Handwoven Textiles
- Intricate and brightly colored textiles woven by the indigenous people of Palawan, perfect for making clothing, blankets, or decorative items.
3. Local Handicrafts
- Wood carvings, such as small statues of animals, and other handmade products from local artisans, offering a piece of Palawan’s culture and craftsmanship.
Shell Products
Location
You already visited this country? Share your experiences with others! Tell us what’s worth seeing, what to skip, the things you wish you knew before your trip, what surprised you, what do you wish you knew earlier? Leave a review and help others plan smarter. Thanks in advance! :))
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