6 Of the Best Things to Do in Puerto Princesa, Philippines

Puerto Princesa, a coastal city on the island of Palawan in the Philippines, is best known for its iconic Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, recognized as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. As the gateway to Palawan, the city is a popular starting point for travelers, thanks to its large airport and convenient access to the island’s natural wonders. In this article, I’ll guide you through the top activities you won’t want to miss during your visit to Puerto Princesa!

  1. Puerto Princesa Underground River
  2. Immaculate Conception Cathedral
  3. Palawan Butterfly Ecological Garden and Tribal Village
  4. Nagtabon Beach 
  5. Honda Bay Island Hopping
  6. City Tour

1

Puerto Princesa Underground River

Stretching over 8 kilometers, the Puerto Princesa Underground River is one of the Philippines’ most renowned natural wonders. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and expansive chambers, each with its own story. Exploring this river involves navigating through a dark cave system in silence to avoid disturbing the ecosystem and the bats living there.

There’s a reason this river is one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. The experience is truly unique! It’s easily in my top 3 favorite activities in the Philippines. On the boat ride through the caves, I remember being in awe of the natural beauty and stillness around me—an experience I won’t soon forget. 

Because of its popularity, visits are highly regulated, and you can only go there by booking a tour. I highly recommend GetYourGuide for booking, as they offer great options. If you prefer to book in person, many hostels and hotels offer tours. While you won’t be able to check reviews when booking locally, it’s still a fantastic option, especially if you want to go with friends from your accommodation.

2

Immaculate Conception Cathedral

The Immaculate Conception Cathedral is a historical and religious landmark in Puerto Princesa. Like many cathedrals, its stained-glass windows are stunning, and the architecture make it a must-visit attraction. 

While the cathedral itself is impressive, its historical significance also adds to its appeal. It’s located near Plaza Cuartel, which makes it easy to visit two historical spots in one go.

Entrance Fee: Free, but donations are always appreciated.

3

Palawan Butterfly Ecological Garden and Tribal Village

The Palawan Butterfly Ecological Garden and Tribal Village is a sanctuary for various butterfly species, offering a glimpse into their life cycles and habitats. Beyond the butterflies, it’s also an ecological and cultural experience. The lush garden and the tribal village allow visitors to learn about the traditional practices, and lifestyles of Palawan’s indigenous tribes. You’ll interact with the locals, watch traditional dances, and learn about their crafts, which makes it more than just a butterfly sanctuary. 

Entrance Fee: 60 PHP (1.50$ CAD) per person.

4

Nagtabon Beach

Nagtabon Beach is about 30 kilometers northwest of Puerto Princesa. I’ve included it here even though it’s technically outside the city for a simple reason: Puerto Princesa doesn’t have beaches as stunning as those in El Nido. However, Nagtabon Beach is absolutely worth the detour. Its tranquil atmosphere, crystal-clear waters, and soft white sand make it a favorite among both locals and tourists. 

How to Get There: Rent a scooter or hire a tricycle, which usually costs around 500-700 PHP for a one-way trip. Make sure to bring your own food and drinks, as there aren’t many facilities around. It’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy nature without the crowds.

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5

Honda Bay Island Hopping

Island hopping is a staple activity in many Philippine cities, and Puerto Princesa is no exception. Honda Bay is the closest bay to the city, offering the perfect opportunity to explore several islands, swim in crystal-clear waters, snorkel, and relax while soaking in the stunning views.

A typical Honda Bay island hopping tour includes stops at Starfish Island (famous for its abundance of starfish), Luli Island (which “sinks” during high tide and “rises” during low tide), and Cowrie Island (known for its relaxing beaches and delicious seafood). This activity must be booked through a tour company, I recommend looking at GetYourGuide website.

6

City Tour

A city tour is a great way to dive into the history of Puerto Princesa and the Philippines. Tours typically last between 2 to 4 hours and cover the main attractions in the city, such as Plaza Cuartel, the Palawan Museum, and Baker’s Hill. A guided tour ensures you don’t miss out on any key landmarks, and it eliminates the stress of organizing transportation between sites, as that’s usually included in the price.

City tours are a fantastic way to make the most of a short stay in Puerto Princesa. You get to see all the major sights in just a few hours, leaving you more time to explore or relax afterward. Once again, I recommend booking through the GetYourGuide website.

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