Cuyo Islands Travel Guide

Discover Cuyo Islands, Palawan, Philippines with our ultimate travel guide. From nature, culture, food, safety to transportation, we've got you covered.


Introduction to Cuyo Islands

Cuyo Islands is a group of islands located in the northernmost part of Palawan, Philippines. The islands form a vast archipelago composed of 45 different islets and is one of the top tourist destinations in the country. Cuyo Islands boasts of its unique beauty, pristine beaches, scenic views, and rich local culture that makes it a must-visit place on your Philippine travel bucket list.

List of Places to Visit in Cuyo Islands

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Cuyo Fort - One of the oldest and most iconic structures built in 1680 by the Spaniards to protect the locals against Moro pirates and other foreign invaders.

  2. Fr. Eugenio Obregon Tapel House Museum - Located in the Poblacion, Cuyo, the museum is a two-story ancestral house and was converted into a museum in honor of the late Father Eugenio Obregon who dedicated his life to serving the people of Cuyo.

Natural Attractions of Cuyo Islands: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Agila Beach - A hidden and serene beach with crystal clear water where you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.

  2. Mount Aguado - A 17th century Spanish fortress that offers an excellent view of Cuyo’s stunning landscape.

Hiking/Biking Trails of Cuyo Islands

  1. Cuyo Island Trail - A picturesque hiking trail that offers breathtaking views along the way.

  2. Tocadan Lighthouse Trail - A scenic trail up north in Tocadan where you can have a picturesque view of the island.

Best Things to Do in Cuyo Islands: Activities and Tours

  1. Island hopping - Visit different islets surrounding Cuyo Islands, including Puyo, Codilang, and Buanget Island.

  2. Snorkeling - Explore Cuyo’s diverse marine life by snorkeling at different sites such as Agila Beach and Tocadan Island.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cuyo Islands

Day Activities
Day 1 Arrival, Explore Cuyo Fort, and Fr. Eugenio Obregon Tapel House Museum
Day 2 Island Hopping Tour
Day 3 Snorkeling Day Trip
Day 4 Tocadan Lighthouse Trail Hiking
Day 5 Agila Beach Day Tour
Day 6 Cuyo Island Trail Hiking
Day 7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Cuyo Islands

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Adobo - A popular Filipino dish cooked with chicken adobo or pork adobo, vinegar, garlic, and soy sauce.

  2. Kinilaw - A Cuyo Island’s specialty dish that uses fresh tuna diced and then cured with vinegar, ginger, onions, and chili peppers.

Local Beverages

  1. Tubâ - A local coconut wine produced by local farmers.

  2. Calamansi Juice - A refreshing drink made with the local Philippine citrus called Calamansi.

Where to Stay in Cuyo Islands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Hicom Beach Resort - Located in the Poblacion, Cuyo, the resort offers comfortable rooms and a magnificent view of the beach.

  2. Island Cove Resort and Leisure Park - A cozy accommodation with rustic charm overlooking the sea.

What to Buy in Cuyo Islands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Handwoven Mats - Cuyo Islands is famous for its high-quality handwoven mats.

  2. Cashew Nuts - Cuyo Islands produces some of the best-tasting cashew nuts in the Philippines.

Local Culture and Customs of Cuyo Islands

Cuyo Islands is a predominantly Catholic community. Visitors are expected to dress conservatively and respect the local customs and traditions. Being mindful and courteous towards locals goes a long way in enjoying your trip to its fullest.

Best Time to Visit Cuyo Islands

The best time to visit Cuyo Islands is from November to April when the weather is warm and dry. The rainy season typically falls between June and October, making it challenging to indulge in outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cuyo Islands

Do:

  1. Respect the local customs and traditions.

  2. Wear appropriate clothing, especially when visiting historical and religious sites.

Don’t:

  1. Litter and dispose of trash properly.

  2. Disturb the marine life by touching or harming them while snorkeling.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cuyo Islands

Cuyo Islands is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it’s best to keep your valuables safe and secured.

Health in Cuyo Islands

It is advisable to bring insect repellent, sunscreen, and other necessary prescription medications. Make sure to drink potable water to avoid stomach problems.

Getting to Cuyo Islands: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Cuyo Islands

The nearest airport to Cuyo Islands is Francisco B. Reyes Airport in Coron. From Coron, you can take a chartered boat or take a passenger boat.

Bus Stations Near Cuyo Islands

Buses travel to Cuyo Islands from major cities in the Philippines, but will require a transfer to a passenger boat upon arriving on Palawan.

Other Options

You can also take a ferry from Iloilo, which takes around 12-14 hours.

How to Get Around in Cuyo Islands

Cuyo Islands is a small enough island that you can walk or bike around. Alternatively, you can rent a tricycle or a motorbike.

Where to Go Next from Cuyo Islands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Coron - Known for its beautiful beaches, shipwrecks, and scuba diving spots.

  2. El Nido - A paradise-like destination known for its clear blue waters and lagoons with towering cliffs.

Conclusion

Cuyo Islands offers a unique and unforgettable experience for both local and foreign tourists, from its picturesque landscape and cultural heritage to its rich culinary scene. Make sure to visit this enchanting paradise on your next Philippine trip.