Puerto Princesa Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more in Puerto Princesa, Philippines.


Introduction to Puerto Princesa

Located in the western province of Palawan, Puerto Princesa is a city known for its stunning natural wonders, rich history, and vibrant culture. Dubbed as “The City in the Forest” and “The Eco-Tourism Center of the Philippines,” Puerto Princesa’s charm lies in its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, limestone cliffs, and lush green forests.

Tourists can explore underground rivers and caves, go on island-hopping adventures, and witness wildlife in their natural habitats. Moreover, the city boasts of a unique blend of Spanish and Filipino cultures, evident in its local cuisine, festivals, and customs. With so much to experience, Puerto Princesa remains one of the top destinations to visit in the Philippines.

List of Places to Visit in Puerto Princesa

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Palawan Heritage Center - A museum showcasing Palawan’s history and culture, including archaeological finds, traditional crafts, and artifacts used by indigenous tribes.
  • Palawan Special Battalion WW2 Memorial Museum - A museum honoring the soldiers who fought during World War II, featuring memorabilia, photographs, and stories of heroism.
  • Plaza Cuartel - A historical site used as a military post during the Japanese occupation, serving as a memorial for the soldiers who were burned alive in the tunnels.

Natural Attractions of Puerto Princesa: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park - A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring a 5-mile underground river that winds through spectacular limestone caves and rock formations.
  • Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour - A tour that takes visitors to several breathtaking islands, such as Starfish Island, Luli Island, and Cowrie Island.
  • Tubbataha Reef Natural Park - A protected marine area known for its coral reefs, diverse marine life, and crystal-clear waters, perfect for scuba diving and snorkeling.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Puerto Princesa

  • Mount Bloomfield Eco Trail - A challenging hiking trail that offers stunning views of Puerto Princesa from the top, spanning around 5 hours to complete.
  • Bakers Hill to Mitra’s Ranch Trail - A scenic biking trail featuring rolling hills, green valleys, and picturesque landscapes, perfect for a half-day adventure.

Best Things to Do in Puerto Princesa: Activities and Tours

  • Firefly Watching Tour - A tour that takes visitors to the Iwahig River to witness hundreds of fireflies lighting up the dark mangrove forest.
  • Sabang Zipline - A thrilling zipline adventure offering breathtaking views of Sabang Beach and Ulugan Bay.
  • Ugong Rock Adventure - An exhilarating caving and rock-climbing experience that rewards visitors with a panoramic view of the nearby countryside.

Week-Long Itinerary for Puerto Princesa

Day 1 Arrival and check-in
Day 2 Honda Bay Island Hopping Tour
Day 3 Underground River Tour
Day 4 City Tour: Palawan Heritage Center, Plaza Cuartel, and Palawan Special Battalion WW2 Memorial Museum
Day 5 Sabang Beach Trip and Zipline Adventure
Day 6 Firefly Watching Tour
Day 7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Puerto Princesa

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chicken Inasal - A popular grilled chicken dish marinated with spices and vinegar, served with a side of garlic rice and dipping sauce.
  • Tamilok - A unique local delicacy made of woodworms marinated in vinegar and served raw or lightly cooked.
  • Ka-Lui’s Seafood Platter - A must-try dish in Puerto Princesa, featuring a wide variety of fresh seafood, such as crabs, prawns, squid, and fish.

Local Beverages

  • Buko Juice - A refreshing drink made of young coconut water, best served cold.
  • Palawan Craft Beer - A locally-brewed beer made with organic ingredients, featuring unique flavors such as calamansi and honey.

Where to Stay in Puerto Princesa: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Luxury Accommodations

  • Daluyon Beach and Mountain Resort - A luxurious eco-friendly resort overlooking the sandy beaches of Sabang.
  • Sheridan Beach Resort and Spa - A beachfront resort featuring a pool, a spa, and a restaurant serving international and local cuisine.

Budget Accommodations

  • Puerto Pension - A budget-friendly guesthouse located in the heart of Puerto Princesa offering clean, comfortable, and air-conditioned rooms.
  • House of Big Brother - A cozy and affordable hostel featuring an outdoor swimming pool and a shared kitchen.

What to Buy in Puerto Princesa: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Cashew Nuts - Palawan is known for its delicious cashew nuts, which are often found in local markets and souvenir shops.
  • Handwoven Crafts - Local handicrafts made of indigenous materials, such as bamboo, rattan, and pandan leaves, are popular souvenirs in Puerto Princesa.
  • Pearl Jewelry - Palawan is also known for its high-quality pearls, which are often turned into beautiful jewelry pieces.

Local Culture and Customs of Puerto Princesa

Puerto Princesa has a vibrant culture that is deeply rooted in its history, traditions, and beliefs. Filipinos in Puerto Princesa are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness, and visitors are often welcomed with open arms. Locals celebrate several festivals throughout the year, such as the Palay Festival, Baragatan Festival, and Paraw Regatta, featuring colorful parades, cultural dances, and music performances.

Best Time to Visit Puerto Princesa

The best time to visit Puerto Princesa is between November and May, as this is when the city experiences dry and sunny weather, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The months of June to October are considered the rainy season, which can disrupt travel plans and make the beaches less accessible.

Do’s and Don’ts of Puerto Princesa

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions by dressing modestly and following local etiquette.
  • Try the local cuisine and indulge in fresh seafood and tropical fruits.
  • Hike, kayak, and explore the natural wonders of Puerto Princesa.
  • Be friendly and respectful to the locals, who will most likely reciprocate your kindness.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment in any way.
  • Engage in activities that harm the wildlife, such as touching or feeding animals.
  • Disrespect religious shrines or landmarks.
  • Forget to negotiate prices when bargaining in markets or with vendors.

Safety and Health

Safety in Puerto Princesa

Puerto Princesa is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low rates of violent crime and theft. However, tourists are advised to take precautionary measures, such as avoiding late-night walks in deserted areas and not carrying large sums of cash or expensive items.

Health in Puerto Princesa

Tourists should consult their doctors before traveling and get up-to-date vaccinations, such as Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Puerto Princesa is a malaria-free zone, but dengue fever remains a risk, especially during the rainy season.

Getting to Puerto Princesa: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Puerto Princesa

The Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS) is the main gateway to the city, serving domestic and international flights from major cities such as Manila, Cebu, and Seoul.

Bus Stations Near Puerto Princesa

There are several bus companies that operate routes to and from Puerto Princesa, such as the Cherry Bus and RORO Bus, with destinations including El Nido, Sabang, and Manila.

Other Options

Tourists can also get to Puerto Princesa via sea travel, with daily ferry services from Manila and Coron. Private transfers, such as vans and taxis, are also available for hire from the airport or bus terminals.

How to Get Around in Puerto Princesa

Tourists can explore Puerto Princesa’s attractions by hiring a tricycle, which is a motorized sidecar, or a taxi. There are also several car rental agencies or motorbike rentals for those who prefer to drive themselves. Additionally, many attractions are accessible by foot or bicycle for those who prefer a more eco-friendly mode of transportation.

Where to Go Next from Puerto Princesa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • El Nido - A picturesque town located north of Puerto Princesa, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and limestone cliffs.
  • Coron - An island located northeast of Palawan known for its world-class diving sites, shipwrecks, and coral gardens.
  • Port Barton - A laidback fishing village located north of Puerto Princesa, known for its secluded beaches, turquoise waters, and lush jungles.

Conclusion

Puerto Princesa offers visitors a unique vacation experience, filled with natural wonders, cultural treats, and exciting adventures. From exploring an underground river to diving into crystal-clear waters, Puerto Princesa is a destination that caters to all types of travelers. If you’re looking for a place to relax, unwind, and get back in touch with nature, then Puerto Princesa is the perfect place for you.

Sabang Beach Sabang Beach A trip to the subterranean river A trip to the subterranean river The beautiful island of Luli in Honda Bay The beautiful island of Luli in Honda Bay The Palawan Museum The Palawan Museum