Puerto Princesa is a coastal city located on Palawan Island in the Philippines. The city is famous for its New Wonders Of Nature: the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River. It is also a popular first destination in Palawan since the biggest airport on the island is in the city. In this article, I will tell you the best activities in Puerto Princesa to enjoy your trip there!
- Puerto Princesa Underground River
- Immaculate Conception Cathedral
- Palawan Butterfly Ecological Garden and Tribal Village
- Nagtabon Beach
- Honda Bay Island Hopping
- City Tour
Puerto Princesa Underground River
Stretching over 8 kilometers, the Puerto Princesa Underground River is a renowned natural wonder of the Philippines. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and large chambers with different stories. Exploring this river means navigating through the cave system in the dark and in silence to observe the bats living there and not disturb the ecosystem.
There’s a reason this river is one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. It’s such a unique experience! It’s in my top 3 favorite things I did in the Philippines. Since it’s such a popular activity, the site is very much controlled. You cannot go there without booking a tour.
That’s why I highly recommend booking with Viator since they have incredible options :
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Puerto Princesa Underground River is a must for any visitor to Palawan. Explore it by boat on this small-group day tour with round-trip transfers from Puerto Princesa city. Besides the river, you’ll stop at the Buena Vista View Deck for ocean vistas, savor a restaurant lunch, and visit Ugong Rock. A small environmental protection fee is payable, while zipline rides are at your expense.
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Discover the best of Puerto Princesa and El Nido as you explore the area on this 5-day tour. Join a small group and visit key landmarks like the UNESCO-listed Puerto Princesa underground river, several lagoons and beaches, and smaller islands nearby. This is a convenient way to see the area without worrying about booking separate transfers, hotels, or tours; everything is taken care of!
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If you prefer to book in person, most hostels and hotels offer a tour. However, you cannot see the reviews while booking in person, but it’s still a great option if you want to spend your day with your new friends at your accommodation.
Immaculate Conception Cathedral
The Immaculate Conception Cathedral is a historical and religious landmark in the city. Like most cathedrals, the stained-glass windows are beautiful. The architecture and the serene ambiance make it a popular attraction in Puerto Princesa. There’s no entrance fee to visit the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, but donations are always welcome.
Palawan Butterfly Ecological Garden and Tribal Village
The Palawan Butterfly Ecological Garden and Tribal Village is a sanctuary for various butterfly species, showcasing their life cycles and habitats. But beyond that, the lush garden and the tribal village make it an ecological and cultural activity. Inside the site, you can learn about the traditional practices, crafts, and lifestyles of indigenous Palawan tribes. This unique experience is a great addition to your itinerary if you’re looking to learn more about Palawan history and nature.
The entrance fee is 60 PHP (1.40$ CAD) per person.
Nagtabon Beach
Nagtabon Beach is located about 30 kilometers northwest of Puerto Princesa. The reason I’m mentioning it even though it’s not technically in the city is this: Puerto Princesa doesn’t have incredible beaches like you can find in El Nido. However, Nagtabon Beach is absolutely beautiful and worth a detour.
It’s a favorite spot for both locals and tourists because of its tranquil atmosphere, blue water and white sand. It’s a great escape from the busier parts of the island.
Honda Bay Island Hopping
Like in most cities in the Philippines, you can do island hopping in Honda Bay. It’s the closest bay to Puerto Princesa. It’s the perfect activity for you if you want to explore several islands, swim in crystal-clear waters, do some snorkeling, and of course relax while enjoying the view.
Honda Bay Island Hopping includes stops at islands like Starfish Island, Luli Island, and Cowrie Island. You need to book this activity through a tour company so here are some great options on Viator:
Explore Cowrie, Starfish, and Luli Islands on this group island-hopping tour or the islands in the Puerto Princesa Bay. You’ll have time to sunbathe, snorkel, take loads of photos, and enjoy lunch on the beach. Keep costs down with this group tour, but still have plenty of time to explore each place at your own pace.
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Dive into Balabac’s pristine archipelago, Palawan’s best-kept secret! Experience untouched beaches, crystal-clear waters, and starlit nights.
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City Tour
A city tour is a great way to learn more about the history of the city and the country. Usually, a tour takes around 2–4 hours. A guided tour allows you to see the main attractions of the city in a couple of hours, so you’re sure you don’t miss out on anything. It’s also a good way to avoid stressing about transportation between activities since it’s included in the price!
Here are some great options on Viator:
Skip the stress of self-driving and the expense of taxis or drivers and see Puerto Princesa city’s essential sights in just half a day on this great-value group tour, including transfers from central hotels. Visit the Palawan Heritage Center museum and see animals including crocodiles at the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center. Enjoy photo stops at historic Plaza Cuartel and a park, plus the option to buy snacks and souvenirs.
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Become more familiar with Puerto Princesa and its main hangouts and highlights on this 5-hour tour, including round-trip transport from your city hotel. Along your tour route, visit eight destinations, including Plaza Cuartel, Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Baylwalk, Crocodile Farm, Baker’s Hill, Pasalubong Center, and Binuatan Creations Weaving Center.
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