Palawan : Budget + Itinerary Guide for First-Timers

Palawan : Budget + Itinerary Guide for First-Timers

WHAT'S IN THIS GUIDE?

DID YOU KNOW?

Palawan has been featured in many different posts circulating around its magnificent beaches. It is home to one of the 7 wonders in the world.

A lot of islands that compose the Philippines belong to Palawan.

Traveling to Palawan for the first time?  This detailed and curated travel guide will make it easy for you to plan a trip, save money and maximize your time. This guide will also make sure that you get the best out of your money while traveling in Palawan.

Scroll down to read must-know travel tips before you go, followed by a sample itinerary + budget breakdown, recommended hotels/places to stay, things to do/places to visit, and lots of extra travel tips.

palawan trip expenses

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Get Started

How to get to Palawan  — By plane, Puerto Princesa, Palawan can be reached on a one (1) hour flight from Cebu. It serves direct flights to popular domestic destinations including Davao, Cagayan de Oro and Manila.

Always book your hotel early  — Avail low rates and avoid fully-booked rooms by booking online as soon 2-3 months before your travel departure. Click below to compare discounts and read reviews by other travelers.

Check discounts and prices online  — Save money by checking discounts on tours & airport/hotel transfers. Booking before you leave also saves you time & avoids the hassles of bringing large amounts of cash during your actual trip.

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Spend 2 days or more  — While it’s possible to explore the highlights of the city in a day, consider planning at least 2 days to tour the island. Go for 4 days for a more relaxed trip.

Save More while Traveling  — I’ve included a lot of money saving tips on this guide. You can actually save more when you do not include attractions that has entrance fees. You can achieve cheaper expenses by knowing where to find and book the attractions.

Getting around Palawan  — There are a lot of transport and tour options available whether you want to go with a private tour or a do-it-yourself trip. You can even go full local and try the motorcycle/tricycle commute to get around or stick with packaged tours that can offer a hassle-free experience. Grab is not offered in this area.

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Pre-Travel Guide

✓ How to get to Palawan ✓ How to get around Palawan? ✓ Should I book my Palawan hotel online? ✓ What to prepare for a trip to Palawan? ✓ How to find cheap flights to Palawan? ✓ When is the best time to visit? ✓ Travel Must Haves ✓ Money-saving tips

How to get to Palawan

Entry point manila (naia).

✓ By Airplane (Cebu pacific, Airasia or Philippine Airlines)

  • Direct flights area available.
  • Travel time is around 1 hr and 15 mins.

✓ By Ferry (2-GO)

  • It has 2 trips in a week . (Tuesday and Friday at 1:30pm)
  • Travel Time is about 30 hours.
  • Minimum Price is around PHP 1200  (SGD 30, $ 24, € 20)  – PHP 1800  (SGD 45, $ 36, € 30).

ENTRY POINT CEBU (Mactan Cebu International Airport)

Entry point  cagayan de oro (laguindingan airport).

  • Flights are available with a stop-over in Cebu area .
  • Flight Duration is 2 Hour 30 Minutes.

MAP ON HOW TO GET TO PALAWAN

How to get around Palawan

By tricycle.

  • Offers the cheapest way to travel around Palawan.
  • Maximum of 4 passengers . 
  • On average, you can expect to pay PHP 10.00   (SGD 0.25 ,$ 0.2, € 0.17)  per person.

By Motor Bike Rental

  • Recommending you to use a mode of transport with a driver.
  • Small car rental price starts at PHP 700  (SGD 17.5 ,$ 14, € 12) per day.

By Car Rental

  • Small car rental price starts at PHP 2500   (SGD 62.5 ,$ 50, € 42) per day.

By Bus and Mini-Van

  • Most fares costs around PHP 400   (SGD 62.5 ,$ 50, € 42) . Standard trip from Puerto Princesa to El Nido.
  • Travel time takes around 6 to 9 hours.

By Private Van

  • Puerto Princesa to El-Nido costs around  PHP 600   (SGD 15 ,$ 12, € 10)
  • It can accommodate up to 8-10 passengers .

By Ferries and Boats

  • El Nido to Coron. Most fares costs around PHP 2000   (SGD 50 ,$ 40, € 34) . 

Should I book my Palawan Hotel Online?

My answer will always be YES . You can save money by checking discounts online. Booking before you leave also saves you time & avoids the hassles of bringing large amounts of cash during your actual trip.

What to prepare for a trip to Palawan?

Sunblock — If you don’t have a plan in getting yourself tan, then bring some sunblock to protect your skin from the suns UV rays.

Hats and Eye wear  — Protect your eyes from the heat of the sun.

Cellphone Waterproof Case  — Philippines nationals can enjoy visa-free travel in Palawan, for up to 30 days.

Rent a GoPro – If you are in Cebu, my friend can rent you one here .

How to find cheap flights to Palawan?

Start your search on  Wego, Momondo, and Skyscanner .

Also, check Palawan promo alerts several weeks or months ahead of your trip if you are planning your trip early. The cheapest promos are sold up to a year in advance of the travel/flight departure date & are often only available if you book directly with the airline.

When is the Best Time to Visit?

In my experience, March – June and October are the best months to visit Palawan.

Travel Must-Haves

✓ Google Map App – A life-saver for me because without it, I might get lost.

✓ Google Translate – Super powerful app. Translate anything.

✓ Gps-Guided App – Tour the city like a local with this app.

✓ Sunscreen – Protect yourself from sunburn or much worse – Cancer.

✓ Pocket Wifi or Sim Card – The convenient of searching anything is a go-to. Please don’t forget this baby. It is a life-saver for me though.

Money Saving Tips

Get a good map and explore the city on your own tour  — You can tour the city at your own pace plus you can choose from a variety of options. There are a lot of awesome things to do in Palawan that doesn’t cost a dime.

Drive a motorcycle  — This is the cheapest way to get around.

Stay at hostels   or airbnb — If you are travelling alone or by group of 3, hostels are best for you. But, if you are travelling in group of 4 or more, then airbnb is best for you. I have calculated the difference and airbnb ones are best for group of travellers.

Where to stay in Palawan

Type in the box below your designated location of the hotel or the hotel name and your preferred dates.

ROVICS TOURIST HOTEL EL NIDO PALAWAN

During in El Nido, we stayed at Rovic’s Tourist Hotel . The hotel can accommodate not just a maximum of 4 person in a room but 6-8 persons in a room. Its affordable and they have a cool stairs.

PUERTO PRINCESA

My co-workers and I stayed at Michelle Pension House . 

5D / 4N Palawan Itinerary

Please take note that we have booked this thru a travel agency for about 60 pax.

Day 1: Arrival to Puerto Princesa + Travel to El Nido

Day 2: el nido island hopping (package a&b).

Luli Island Palawan

Day 3: Check out. Proceed to Underground River Tour

underground river palawan

Day 4: Honda Bay Island Hopping + Puerto Princesa Day Tour

Starfish island honda bay

Day 5: Going Home

5d / 4n palawan budget expenses.

Since this is a travel and tour itinerary provided by Aboex Travel & Tours, I can only provide you some details of expenses. This package costs around 15,000 php for each person.

We were about 60 persons.

Inclusions of the said expenses are the following:

Round trip airfare from Cebu-Puerto Princesa 2 Nights at Michelle pension 2 Nights at Rovic’s Tourist Hotel 4 breakfasts,4 lunch and 4 Dinner Underground River Tour Honda Bay Island Hopping + City Tour El Nido Island Hopping A & B All applicable entrance fees Tour guide during tour Travel Insurance Van transfers all throughout the tour

Environmental fee –  150 PHP   ( SGD 3.75 ,$3, € 2.5 )

Snorkel Fees –  150 PHP   ( SGD 3.75 ,$3, € 2.5 )

UNDERGROUND RIVER FEES

1. Visitor’s Entry Permit (VEP)

Puerto Princesa Underground River entrance fee – 500 PHP (about €8.00) Environmental fee – 150 PHP   ( SGD 3.75 ,$3, € 2.5 ) Audio guide fee –  85 PHP   ( SGD 2.2 ,$1.7, € 1.42 )

2. Boat to Underground River – 1300 PHP  ( SGD 32.5 ,$26, € 22)(good for 6 persons)

3. Transportation to/from Sabang Wharf (estimate only)

Local – 145 PHP   ( SGD 3.75 ,$3, € 2.5  ) Foreigner – 215 PHP   ( SGD 5.4 ,$4.3, € 3.6  ) 

Places to Visit

✓ New 7 Wonders of the World known as the Underground River

✓ Island Hopping at Honda Bay

✓ Plaza Cuartel and Church

✓ Snorkeling at Pambato Island

✓ 13ft-18ft Crocs at Crocodile Farm

✓ Mitra’s Ranch

✓ Bakers Hill

✓ Island Hopping at El nido

✓ Island Hopping at Coron  

Puerto Princesa ,Palawan festivals are events that visitors look forward to seeing because of the fun activities that await and the liveliness of the celebrations.

Pangalipay sa Baybay

  • Pangalipay sa Baybay is a Puerto Princesa festival that is celebrated at the beginning of the second quarter of the year.
  •   The Bay Walk of Puerto Princesa is the place where the Pangalipay sa Baybay is celebrated, right on the beautiful beaches of the capital and it starts off with live bands performing.

Seafood Festival

  • Puerto Princesa is known for having among the best and freshest seafood in the entire country and what better way to showcase this than to have a Seafood Festival.
  • 3rd week of April is when the Seafood Festival is held and the best part of this Puerto Princesa festival.

Tips, Notes and Reminders

Always be alert and careful in everything you do.

Bring extra clothes. It’s very hot.

Bring some packed food with you to save more. If you do not want, food and souvenir stalls are available.

Bring water so that you are always hydrated.

Personal accessories and gadgets are not advisable to bring during island hopping tours.

Pack light.

MAP to help you locate places nearby

DID YOU ENJOY THIS POST? PIN IT FOR LATER!!

PALAWAN PHILIPPINES ITINERARY AND BUDGET GUIDES 2

Have you ever visited any of the 7 wonders of the world? Try the One in Palawan!

Always remember to “ Develop your One Days to Day Ones! “

shellwanders

Shelley Mae

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  • Travel Planning Guide

How much does a trip to Palawan Cost?

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How much money should you budget for your trip to Palawan?

How much does a weekend trip to palawan cost.

  • How much does a five-day trip to Palawan cost?
  • How much does a one-week trip to Palawan cost?
  • Hostel Prices
  • Hotel Prices

The Cost of a Trip to Palawan

When it comes to exploring Palawan, travelers typically find themselves budgeting between $0 and $0 per day for solo adventures and $0 to $0 if you're traveling as a couple. Now, that's a broad range, but the typical trip, on average, is $0 (₱0) per person per day. This average cost covers sightseeing, accommodation, meals, and transportation, all from our large repository of travel expenses from previous visitors. Keep in mind, though, your personal spending might vary a bit based on your own level of luxury, travel style, and chosen activities. However, if you're visiting the highlights with some savvy planning, chances are your spending will vibe right around this average cost. For more details, check out the breakdown of expenses by category, plus the breakdown on accommodation and activity prices below.

If you're planning an Independent trip to Palawan, budget travelers should plan to spend around $0 (₱0) per day for their trip. This average includes hostels and budget hotels, affordable meal options, local transportation, and activities. If you're on a mid-range budget, plan for around $0 (₱0) a day which covers the cost of typical hotels, normal restaurants, and a variety of popular attractions. Luxury travelers should allow for $0 (₱0) a day, which would cover higher-end hotels, nicer restaurants, and more private tour options. All of these price ranges are based on our extensive travel cost data for Palawan from other travelers, along with hotel and tour data from travel companies.

On average, travelers spend around $0 per person during a three-day trip to Palawan. This average includes expenses for sightseeing, hotels, food, and local transportation. To align with this average price range, consider opting for mid-range hotels and dining at mid-level restaurants, while also allocating funds for entry tickets to popular attractions. For those seeking a more budget-friendly approach, it is possible to find lower-cost accommodations, dine at less expensive restaurants, and explore free activities. Also, many visitors choose to spend a higher travel budget, as Palawan offers a range of high-end hotels and restaurants for those seeking a more luxurious experience.

How much does a five day trip to Palawan cost?

With five days in Palawan, you can expect to spend about $0 total, not including transportation to and from the city. It's possible to stay close to this daily average by booking mid-range hotels, eating at normal restaurants, and paying for some entry tickets to popular attractions. It's possible to find lower-cost accommodations, eat at less expenive restaurants, and find more free activities if you want to spent less money.

How much does a one week trip to Palawan cost?

Most visitors spend between $0 and $0 for a one week trip to Palawan, with the average being $0 . This includes sightseeing, local transportation, food, and hotels. One week is enough time to have a more in-depth experience in Palawan. Also, one week allows you to be more flexible with your time and money, so you can potentially save money on some aspects of your trip while spending more on others.

Hotel Prices in Palawan

Based on our calculations from available hotels in the Palawan, the average price for a hotel room is $0 per night. To save money, or if you're planning a more luxurious trip, it's important to look at hotel prices based on the overall star-rating as well as guest reviews. Also, prices can vary by amenities and location. Check out more details from our analysis of hotel prices in Palawan here , and below is a breakdown of hotel prices by star-rating.

Should you do a tour in Palawan?

Many visitors enjoy the convenience of booking tours and activities while they visit, and Palawan has a wide array of things to do. These activities often include knowledgable guides and unique experiences. Tours range in price from $24 for the Small-Group El Nido Island Hopping Tour to $200 for the El Nido Island Hopping Tour from Puerto Princesa .

  • Puerto Princesa: 3D2N Tours + Hotel Viator $ 150
  • Puerto Princesa: 3D2N Tours + Hotel: $150
  • Coron Ultimate Tour - Full Day Group Tour w/ Lunch : $48
  • Full Day Islands Guided Sailing Tour in Coron: $160
  • 3dayTour Underground river honda bay citytour w/ airport pick up: $125
  • El Nido Tour B - Caves and Islands Tour (Private / Shared): $55
  • El Nido Tour C Private: $151
  • 3D2N El Nido Experience: $250
  • El Nido Tour D Full Day w/ Beach Lunch: $28

More for Palawan

If you're planning a trip to Palawan, Philippines, check out these other informative travel guides.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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Not Another Backpacker

Palawan Travel Guide: Places to Visit + Insider Tips

Palawan in the Philippines is a true tropical paradise. The approximately 260-mile-long island is blessed with lush rainforest, impressive limestone formations, and countless beaches. It’s even been awarded “the most beautiful island in the world” several times.

I lived on Palawan for nearly two years during which time I thoroughly explored the island. To help you plan your trip, I put together this detailed Palawan travel guide.

Keep reading to find out about the best places to visit, tips on what to consider when planning your trip, and recommendations on where to stay!

Note: Your trust is important to me. Therefore, I’d like to point out that this article contains referral links (also known as affiliate links). This means I get a small commission if you buy a product after clicking on one of the corresponding links, which are marked with a *. There are no extra costs for you, but it helps me keep this blog ad-free. Thank you!

The 8 Best Places to Visit in Palawan

Palawan is the fifth largest island in the Philippines and quite a bit larger than most people imagine. The island’s unique elongated shape allows for a straightforward route, making it easy to plan your itinerary and visit multiple destinations. These are the best places in Palawan:

1. El Nido – Beaches, Islands & Stunning Lagoons

Shimizu Island in El Nido

With stunning beaches and turquoise-blue lagoons, El Nido is definitely one of the best places to visit on Palawan!

While the town center itself is not that pretty, the surrounding nature is what makes this place special. Along the coast, you’ll find some of the best beaches on Palawan , and the islands with towering limestone cliffs in El Nido’s bay are nothing short of spectacular.

Unfortunately, this also means that the town can get quite crowded, but don’t let that discourage you from visiting: The beaches and islands around El Nido really are something else and when planning a trip to Palawan, you should make sure to put this gem on your itinerary!

The Best Things to Do in El Nido on Palawan:

  • Go island hopping in El Nido and visit beautiful islands, lagoons, and sandbanks in Bacuit Bay.
  • Enjoy the crystal-clear water at Nacpan Beach and Duli Beach.
  • Rent a kayak and paddle to Cadlao Island (the largest island in Bacuit Bay).

Where to stay in El Nido ?

  • Frendz Hostel* : Backpackers who like to party will love Frendz Hostel! The highlight is the incredible rooftop bar with a pool and an amazing view of Cadlao Island.
  • Outpost Beach Hostel* : If you’re looking for a social atmosphere and you want to stay right on the beach, Outpost Beach Hostel is one of the best places to stay. It’s located a short ride outside of El Nido downtown and offers one of the best sunset views you can imagine.
  • El Nido Viewdeck Cottages* : For those who want to splurge a little bit more, I recommend the El Nido Viewdeck Cottages which feature huts with private pools and an amazing view of the limestone cliffs in town!

For more accommodation tips check out my detailed article on where to stay in El Nido !

How many days do you need in El Nido?

I recommend staying in El Nido for at least three days. This will give you enough time to participate in one island hopping tour, visit Nacpan and Duli Beach, and go kayaking or visit a waterfall. If you want to do more than one island hopping tour and explore the region thoroughly, I recommend spending 5 – 7 days in El Nido.

2. Coron and Linapacan – Gorgeous Islands North of Palawan

Kayangan Lake in Coron

The island group of Coron is situated north of the mainland of Palawan and, much like El Nido, is renowned for its small tropical islands and beautiful lagoons.

You can also book a three-day island hopping tour that starts in El Nido and ends in Coron (or the other way around). This will allow you to not only explore the islands around El Nido and Coron but also to enjoy the remote and less visited islands of Linapacan along the way.

I haven’t had a chance to visit Linapacan or Coron yet, but if you consider booking a tour, I heard very good things about the tour operators Tao and Big Dream Man Boattour . The latter also offers an amazing three-day tour around Coron. You can find more information in this Big Dream Man Boattour Review .

The Best Things to Do in Coron and Linapacan:

  • Go island hopping around Coron to visit beautiful lagoons, caves, and jaw-dropping beaches.
  • Join a 3-day island hopping tour from Coron to El Nido (or the other way around) to explore the island chain of Linapacan along the way.
  • Explore the island of Coron and climb up Mt Tapayas for amazing views or relax in the Maquinit Hot Springs.

Where to Stay in Coron?

Unfortunately, I haven’t been to Coron myself yet, so I can’t give you accommodation tips from my personal experience. After doing research, I found several places with very good reviews though:

  • Outpost Hostel* : Just like in El Nido, the Outpost Hostel seems to be one of the best places to stay in Coron. Backpackers will love the social atmosphere at the bar and if you still need more convincing, just look at that amazing infinity pool! The hostel features dorms and private rooms.
  • The Ridge Coron* : Located on the outskirts of Coron Town, The Ridge Hotel offers guests comfortable rooms with mountain and ocean views. The hotel also provides a free shuttle into town.
  • Kalis Viewpoint Lodge Coron* : If you’re looking for a budget room in the center of town, Kalis Viewpoint Lodge may be just what you’re looking for. It’s close to restaurants and bars and from the rooftop, you’ll have a beautiful ocean view.

How many days for Coron and Linapacan?

To explore the main island of Coron and head out to the surrounding islands by boat once or twice, you should plan to spend at least 3 full days on Coron. However, if you have more time to spare, you can easily stay a couple of days longer. To see the islands of Linapacan, you should plan for an extra 3 days for the island tour from Coron to El Nido.

3. Port Barton – A Laid-back Fishing Village with “Hippie” Vibes

Coconut Beach in Port Barton Palawan

For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of El Nido and Coron, Port Barton in Palawan is the place to be! There may not be as many things to do, yet it’s the perfect place to kick back and unwind.

You’ll find lovely beaches, decent snorkeling spots, and a handful of quaint beach bars where you can sip cocktails while watching the colorful sunsets on the horizon. So, sit back and relax!

The Best Things to Do in Port Barton on Palawan:

  • Book a tour or rent a kayak to explore the islands and snorkeling spots in Port Barton’s Bay.
  • Visit the surrounding beaches (White Beach, Coconut Beach, and Pamuyan Beach).
  • Hike to Pamuyan Waterfall and cool off in the refreshing water.

Where to stay in Port Barton ?

  • Coco Rico* : Backpackers who love to party should check out Coco Rico’s Hostel in town which offers cheap dorm beds and a social vibe. Plus, on Friday and Saturday, you can enjoy live music and free shots for half an hour at the hostel bar (there are free shots for everyone – even if you don’t stay here).
  • My Green Hostel* : For backpackers looking for a social vibe without the craziness Coco Rico has to offer, My Green Hostel is a good fit. There is a bar on site but overall the vibe is a little more laid-back. Also, My Green Hostel provides Starlink internet connection which is perfect for digital nomads!
  • Besaga Beachfront B&B* : Those who want to stay right on the beach and are willing to pay a little bit more will enjoy the beach huts from the Besaga Bed & Breakfast on the northern side of the beach. There’s also a restaurant on site that offers delicious meals for a fair price.

Pro-Tip: If you want to book accommodation spontaneously, you can also find some accommodations on Rizal Street (parallel to the beach) that are not available to book online. I stayed at Itaytay Inn – a budget guest house that is run by an amazing Filipino family and features a spacious balcony with a jungle view.

How many days do you need in Port Barton?

If you’re pressed for time, two full days in Port Barton are probably enough. This will give you enough time to go island hopping or kayaking and visit one or two surrounding beaches. However, Port Barton is a place to relax and if you want to keep it chill, you could easily spend 3 – 5 days here.

4. Balabac Islands – A Secluded Oasis in the Sulu Sea

Balabac Island in Southern Palawan

The Balabac Islands are one of the least visited places in Palawan and are calling out for an off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Due to its location in the infamous Sulu Sea south of Palawan’s mainland, there are some security concerns related to piracy and kidnappings that you should be aware of (more information here ), and some governments have issued travel warnings for this region.

Still, it is possible to travel to this region and you can hire a local guide to take you around the islands. You’ll be rewarded with beautiful white-sand beaches and the clearest water you can imagine.

Unfortunately, I haven’t had the chance to visit this island group myself yet, so I can’t speak from personal experience. BUT: I have talked to several people who have visited this incredible place and they’ve only had the best things to say.

Where to Stay in Balabac?

If you book a tour to the Balabac Islands, accommodation will be taken care of, so you don’t have to book a hotel.

How many days do you need for Balabac?

Most people who visit Balabac go on a three-day tour, but it’s possible to stay longer as well. If you plan a trip to this island group, keep in mind that it takes about one travel day to get there from Puerto Princesa. Many tour operators offer transport from and to the capital.

5. Sabang – The Home of the Underground River

Puerto Princesa Underground River

Did you know that Palawan is home to one of the New 7 World Wonders of Nature? Yes, you’ve heard right: The Puerto Princesa Underground River was voted to be one of the most impressive natural formations on the planet!

As the name suggests, the approximately eight-kilometer-long river is located inside a cave. To visit this place, you can book a boat tour which takes you through the cave for about 45 minutes. The price for this tour is comparably high (for the same price you can book a full-day island-hopping tour in El Nido), but it’s definitely interesting to see this unique sight. There is something mystical about floating down a river in complete darkness with only a flashlight lighting the way.

Note: To avoid confusion, it’s essential to mention that the Underground River is not in Puerto Princesa (despite the name) but near a small beach town called Sabang. It is possible to visit the Underground River on a day trip from Palawan’s capital, but I would recommend staying at least one or two nights in Sabang to explore the region thoroughly.

The Best Things to Do in Sabang:

  • Explore the stunning caves of Sabang like the Underground River and the 100 Caves.
  • Visit the Pyamaluguan Waterfall and enjoy the refreshing water.
  • Watch monkeys on the Monkey Trail.

Where to stay in Sabang ?

  • Cafe Sabang* : As the only hostel in town, Cafe Sabang provides private rooms and dorm rooms for a budget-friendly price. The amenities are more basic with outdoor bathrooms and showers, but I enjoyed the social atmosphere and getting to know other travelers while staying here.
  • Casa Leonara* : This budget guest house offers an excellent location right on the beach in the center of Sabang Town. The rooms are small but affordable and the beachside restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
  • Bambua Nature Cottages* : Situated about 1 kilometer from Sabang Beach, the Bambua Nature Cottages offer affordable rooms and bungalows in a jungle atmosphere. I stayed here on my first trip to Sabang and enjoyed the solitude the place has to offer.

How many days do you need in Sabang?

I recommend staying one or two nights in Sabang. This is enough time to visit the Underground River and the 100 Caves outside of town, walk down the Monkey Trail, relax on the beach, and swim in the Pyamuluguan Waterfall. If you’re still hungry for more, you can also go ziplining across rice fields in Sabang’s Adventure Park.

6. Puerto Princesa – The Capital of Palawan

Nagtabon Beach from a viewpoint

Honestly, Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan, is not overly exciting and if I was pressed for time, I would personally just skip the city. There are some good restaurants and a few beautiful beaches in the vicinity, but it’s nothing compared to what you’ll see in El Nido or Coron.

Nonetheless, Puerto Princesa is typically the cheapest place to fly into Palawan and it’s also a convenient place to start or end your trip on the island.

The Best Things to Do in Puerto Princesa:

  • Rent a scooter and head to the local hangout spot Nagtabon Beach.
  • Watch the sunset at the Baywalk Promenade.
  • Visit the city’s Old Market where fresh produce, seafood, and all sorts of knickknacks are being sold.

Where to Stay in Puerto Princesa?

  • Guni Guni Hostel* : If you’re looking for an affordable hostel in Puerto Princesa, Guni Guni is one of the best places to stay in. It’s located downtown and offers air-conditioned dorms with a speedy Starlink internet connection. Also, the hostel is connected to Guni Guni restaurant – one of my favorite places to eat in the city!
  • Filigans Hotel* : During my time in Palawan, I usually stayed in Filigans when visiting Puerto Princesa. The hotel in the heart of the city center is pretty basic but if you’re traveling on a budget as a couple, you can find decent rooms for low prices.
  • Sunlight Guest Hotel* : A little more expensive compared to the other options on this list, the Sunlight Guest Hotel in the center of Puerto Princesa offers spacious rooms and comfortable beds – some rooms come with an ocean view.

How many days do you need in Puerto Princesa ?

If you’re backpacking Palawan and you’re on a longer trip, you can spend one or two nights in Puerto Princesa to walk around town, check out the Old Market, and visit Nagtabon Beach. Those who have more time to spare can also visit the Crocodile Farm (a sanctuary that rescues crocodiles from South Palawan) or go island-hopping in Honda Bay.

On the contrary, if you’re on a short vacation in Palawan, I wouldn’t make Puerto Princesa a priority and instead spend more time in other places like Port Barton, El Nido, and Coron.

7. San Vicente – Famous for Palawan’s Longest Beach

View of Long Beach in San Vicente

Situated between Port Barton and El Nido, the remote town of San Vicente is primarily known for its famous ‘Long Beach.’ With a length of a whopping 14 kilometers, this beach lives up to its name and is, in fact, not only the longest sand beach in the Philippines but even one of the longest beaches in all of Asia.

Surprisingly, not many tourists come out here. This may be due to the reason that there isn’t much to do or see in San Vicente besides its beach. Still, if you have enough time and you’re looking for a calm place to relax for a couple of days, San Vicente might be just what you’re looking for.

The Best Things to Do in San Vicente:

  • Take a leisurely stroll along Long Beach.
  • Enjoy the view from Ningning Viewpoint.
  • Rent a surfboard and hit the swell.

Where to Stay in San Vicente?

  • Victoria Beach House* : Although not located on Long Beach, I loved my stay in Victoria’s Beach House. The rooms are basic but affordable and the hotel is located right on the neighboring beach to Long Beach). It’s only a short ride to town and there are a couple of restaurants nearby.
  • Marina 4Rooms* : Marina 4Rooms is one of the most budget-friendly accommodations in San Vicente. The hotel offers cheap rooms and is located in a central area.
  • Club Agutaya* : If you’re willing to spend a bit more for some comfort, you may enjoy staying in Club Agutaya which is located on Long Beach. The hotel provides spacious rooms with comfortable beds and even has a pool on site.

Note: When you search for accommodation in San Vicente online, many places in Port Barton show up, as Port Barton is officially part of the vicinity of San Vicente. So, make sure that your accommodation is located near Long Beach when making a booking.

How many days do you need in San Vicente?

Technically, you can see everything in San Vicente in one day. Walk along Long Beach, try your luck with surfing, and head to the viewpoint. However, if you want to relax and fully soak in the vibe, stay 2 – 3 days.

8. Southern Palawan – Travel off the Beaten Path

Empty beach near Napsan in South Palawan

Last but not least, you may be wondering if there’s anything to do in Southern Palawan apart from the Balabac Islands. And yes, there are a few places worth checking out.

The nature on this side of Palawan may not be as spectacular as the northern part of the island but the towns are more authentic and less crowded. So, if you want to have a more local experience and travel off the beaten path, Southern Palawan is just the ticket!

Best Places in Southern Palawan (Mainland):

  • Narra: A small town with impressive waterfalls (especially the Estrella Falls).
  • Quezon: Known for the Tabon Caves, but there’s also a beautiful waterfall to visit (Tumarbong Falls).
  • Napsan Beach: A quiet and small beachside village with an authentic flair.

Note: When traveling to Southern Palawan, there are some things to keep in mind. Southern Palawan is predominantly Muslim and more conservative than the North. Also, the infrastructure for tourism in this region is not as advanced, so it may be challenging to find ATMs or laundry services.

Where to stay in Southern Palawan ?

If you travel to South Palawan, I recommend booking accommodation on-site. Many guest houses don’t have an online presence, so it’s best to walk around and ask at the hotels if they have free rooms. Don’t expect too much comfort in Southern Palawan, though!

How many days do you need for Southern Palawan?

This depends on where exactly you want to go and how many places you want to visit. If you have enough time and you want to thoroughly explore the south, you could spend one to two weeks here.

How to Get to Palawan in the Philippines

If you don’t mind a long journey, you can catch a ferry to Palawan from Manila. Yet, most travelers decide to fly to Palawan as it’s much quicker and pretty cheap.

Palawan has several airports, providing you with multiple options for starting and ending your journey:

  • Puerto Princesa: The cheapest flights to Palawan usually land in Puerto Princesa. If you want to visit several places on Palawan, this may be the best option, as you can make your way up north and visit Sabang, Port Barton, El Nido, and Coron in a straight route. To book a flight to Puerto Princesa, check Skyscanner* for the lowest prices.
  • El Nido: If you have limited time on Palawan and you want to skip Puerto Princesa, you can also fly directly to El Nido via the national airline Airswift .
  • Coron: Alternatively, you can also fly into or out of Coron. Check Airswift’s website for the best prices.

How to Get Around Palawan

Boat in Palawan with limestone cliffs in the backdrop

Since most tourists follow a similar Palawan itinerary, getting around is relatively straightforward. You can book local buses and vans to most tourist destinations.

  • Transport for long distances: Local buses are the cheapest mode of transportation when traveling from city to city, but they also stop more often and take longer than tourist vans. Vans, on the other hand, can be a bit rough on passengers with sensitive stomachs, as the drivers tend to think of the road as a racing ring. To secure your seat in advance you can book buses and vans through 12GoAsia* .
  • Transport for short distances: In Puerto Princesa, you can use Jeepneys to get around. These old American Jeeps have been remodeled and are used as public transportation in most Filipino cities. Alternatively, you can take tricycles (local motorbike taxis with seating areas) or rent a motorbike. Motorbikes are available for rent in Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron.

Riding Scooters on Palawan: Most roads on Palawan are paved and in decent condition, but some beaches are only accessible via gravel roads. Also, watch out for dogs in the streets and drive slowly – particularly on windy roads.

Accommodation on Palawan

When it comes to finding accommodations on Palawan, you have plenty of options. The good news is, that while there is no shortage of luxurious beach resorts and 5-star hotels, a trip to Palawan doesn’t have to be expensive! The island is a popular destination for backpackers and budget-friendly accommodations and hostels are readily available.

These are my favorite websites for finding budget-friendly accommodation :

  • Agoda* : In my opinion, Agoda is the best booking platform for accommodations in Southeast Asia. The mobile app typically offers the best prices and incredible last-minute deals.
  • Booking.com* : Alternatively, Booking.com offers a wide range of accommodations. If you book regularly through the app, you get access to better deals and perks like free breakfast.
  • Hostelworld* : Backpackers will love Hostelworld, where you can find the largest selection of hostels in Palawan.

Keep in mind: During peak season, it’s best to book accommodations in advance as the good and cheaper ones tend to fill up quickly. This is particularly the case in El Nido and Coron.

Is Palawan Safe for Tourists?

Countryside on Palawan with rice fields and palm trees

Northern Palawan is safe to visit and it’s even regarded to be one of the safest places for tourists in all the Philippines.

However, there are some safety concerns when it comes to South Palawan, particularly the Balabac Islands in the Sulu Sea. Many governments, including the US, have issued travel warnings for this region related to “crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping.”

While this sounds off-putting, it is still possible to travel to this region. I myself have thoroughly traveled Southern Palawan’s mainland and I felt just as safe as in northern Palawan.

Regarding the Balabac Islands, I can’t speak from my own experiences, but I know that it’s becoming a more popular destination for tourists and whenever I’ve talked to people who have visited these islands, they’ve never had anything bad to say about them.

Nonetheless, you should exercise more caution when traveling to Southern Palawan and the Sulu Sea and if you want to visit the Balabac Islands, I recommend going with a local guide.

Best Time to Visit Palawan

The best time to visit Palawan is during the dry season from January to April , but thanks to its tropical climate, you can expect hot temperatures all year round . Daytime temperatures generally range from 30 to 33 degrees Celsius (86 to 91 degrees Fahrenheit), and even at night, temperatures rarely drop below 23 degrees Celsius (73 degrees Fahrenheit).

From May onwards, you should expect frequent rain showers. Although Palawan seldom experiences direct hits from tropical storms, typhoons often skirt the island, particularly from September to November, resulting in heavy downpours and occasional storms.

Here’s a rough overview of Palawan’s climate with average monthly precipitation:

Graphic of average amount of rainfall per month on Palawan

This graph shows the average rainfall per month. Still, weather conditions can vary from year to year, so it’s always a good idea to check the current weather forecast before your trip (although, from my experience, the weather forecast in Palawan is not always accurate and should be taken with a grain of salt).

Tips for Traveling Palawan

Island in El Nido

Palawan is an outstanding island in the Philippines and the perfect place for a vacation or backpacking trip. Still, there are a few things you should know:

  • Electricity: Power outages are very common on Palawan – especially in El Nido. If you value a good night’s sleep and you don’t want to end up sweating in bed without air conditioning or a fan, I recommend booking accommodation with a generator as backup power.
  • Drinking Water: Tap water in the Philippines is not safe to drink. If you don’t want to buy one plastic water bottle after another, head over to the “Water Refill Stations”, where you can refill your bottle with filtered drinking water for just a few pesos. These refill stations can be found all over the island.
  • SIM Cards: There are two SIM card providers: Globe and Smart. You can buy SIM cards at most Sari-Sari stores (small kiosks) for about 50 PHP (appr. 1 USD) and a 7-day internet top-up costs about 100 PHP (appr. 2 USD).
  • Wi-Fi: In towns like El Nido, Coron, and Puerto Princesa, hotels typically provide Wi-Fi for their guests. In smaller towns, Wi-Fi is not necessarily available and even your SIM card provider may not receive a good internet connection.
  • Tipping culture: Tipping is not customary in the Philippines, but leaving a small tip can be a nice gesture when eating in very nice restaurants with good service. It’s never expected though and not practiced as a standard.
  • Dress code: When staying in tourist areas, there is no particular dress code to consider – even for female travelers. Still, you should only wear swimwear at the beach and if you plan on traveling to Southern Palawan, I recommend female travelers not to dress too revealing as the southern part of the island is more conservative.
  • Visa: Citizens from many nationalities, including US citizens, can enter the Philippines visa-free for up to 30 days. If you want to stay longer, you can extend your stay at an immigration office inside the country. In Manila, you can extend your stay for up to six months at a time, and in any other immigration office, you can extend your stay for up to 2 months at a time. On Palawan, there is an immigration office located in Robinson Mall in Puerto Princesa.
  • ATMs: These days, you shouldn’t have problems finding ATMs in Puerto Princesa, Port Barton, El Nido, and Coron, but you should make sure to bring enough cash if you travel to less visited places.
  • Language: Tagalog is the primary language spoken on Palawan, but in tourist areas, most locals speak very good English as well.
  • Jellyfish: Occasionally, you may encounter jellyfish, including box jellyfish, along the coast of Palawan. Jellyfish are mainly present in Port Barton, and if you get stung you should make sure to remove all tentacles before leaving the water. Avoid cooling the burn with fresh water or urine after you get stung, as this will only make it worse. Some locals say you should use vinegar or ground coffee to treat the sting, but even this information is controversial.
  • Sandflies: Additionally, you should be aware of sandflies which are mostly present at Duli and Nacpan Beach. These insects are very small and barely visible to the naked eye, which is why you often don’t even notice when you get bitten. However, sandfly bites become very itchy the following day. To avoid them, you can apply insect repellent or oil, such as baby oil or coconut oil, which prevents sandflies from penetrating your skin.
  • Sickness while traveling: Unfortunately, some travelers report getting an upset stomach or diarrhea when visiting El Nido. The exact cause for this is unknown, but locals speculate that it’s connected to the water. So, again, stay away from tap water and ask to have your vegetables washed with drinking water when eating fresh produce like salads in restaurants.
  • Malaria and Dengue Fever: In some places of Palawan, there is a risk of Malaria and Dengue Fever, particularly during the rainy season. To avoid getting bitten by mosquitos, I recommend covering up with loose pants at night and using insect repellent when going to the rainforest. “Off! Overtime” is the best insect repellent I found on Palawan and it’s available in most stores on the island.

Travel Costs for Palawan

View from Eagles Nest in El Nido

The cost for your travels in Palawan largely depends on the type of accommodations you book, where you choose to eat, and how many tours you participate in. Backpackers who are willing to eat local meals and stay in budget-friendly guest houses or hostels can travel Palawan on a very small budget.

Here you’ll find a rough overview of what you can expect to pay on the island (as a budget traveler):

  • Budget Accommodation: Starting from 400 PHP
  • Mid-Range Accommodation: Starting from 1,000 PHP
  • Meal in a Restaurant: 200 – 500 PHP
  • Meal at a Local Eaterie: 50 – 100 PHP
  • Beer at a Shop: 50 PHP
  • Beer at a Bar: 60 – 120 PHP
  • Cocktails at a Bar: 2 cocktails for 250 PHP during happy hour
  • Van Fares: A few hundred Pesos per trip (e.g. from Puerto Princesa to El Nido the van costs about 600 – 700 PHP per person)
  • Bus Fares: Local buses are cheaper than tourist vans (e.g. from Puerto Princesa to El Nido the bus costs just over 200 PHP)
  • Motorbike Rental: In tourist areas like El Nido, up to 500 PHP (negotiable!)
  • SIM Card: 50 PHP per SIM card + 100 PHP per 7-day data load
  • Tours (e.g., Island Hopping Tours or the Underground River Tour): 1,200 – 1,400 PHP

Daily Budget for a Backpacker: 800 to 2,000 PHP (appr. 15 – 36 USD)

Daily Budget for a Flashpacker: 2,000 to 3,000 PHP (appr. 36 – 55 USD)

Packing List for Your Palawan Trip

Are you visiting Palawan for the first time and you’re not sure what to bring? Then you can use this packing list as an example:

Packing list for a Palawan  vacation

You can also download this list as a PDF file to print out or save on your phone. 😊

With fascinating limestone cliffs and awardwinning beaches, the north of Palawan is considered to be the most beautiful part of the island. El Nido and Coron, although somewhat touristy, are the main tourist spots on the island.

The ideal duration for your Palawan trip can vary depending on your interests and the amount of places you want to visit. Many travelers spend around 7 to 14 days in Palawan to explore the highlights, like El Nido and Coron, but you can adjust your itinerary based on your preferences. I recommend spending at least 10 days in Palawan if not more.

Palawan is one of the most visited islands in the Philippines and therefore quite touristy. However, it’s still worth visiting this spectacular island and if you want to skip the crowds, you can stick to places like Port Barton and Sabang which are less busy than El Nido and Coron.

Conclusion: Is Palawan Worth Visiting?

Island in El Nido on Palawan

As someone who has lived on Palawan for almost two years, I can say yes, Palawan is absolutely worth visiting! The island is home to postcard-like beaches, stunning lagoons, and awe-inspiring limestone cliffs. On top of that, the countryside is filled with serene rice fields, lush rainforest, and even some waterfalls.

Yes, some places in Palawan, like El Nido and Coron, are very touristy and can get crowded. But there is a reason why these places are as popular as they are. Coron and El Nido are home to some of the best beaches in the world and the limestone formations will make an amazing background for your holiday photos. 😉

Plus, there are many things to do in Palawan . Whether you want to relax on the beach and drink cocktails, hike through the rainforest to see some waterfalls, or try your luck with watersports like surfing or diving- on Palawan there’s something to do for everyone!

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Palawan Travel at Low Cost

Palawan on a budget: tips for affordable travel to the best island in the world.

Palawan, hailed as the "Best Island in the World" twice in a row, has become one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines. But despite its reputation as a high-class destination, budget travel in Palawan is possible with the right tips and tricks. Here are some ways to experience Palawan without breaking the bank.

DESTINATIONS

Come to palawan.

palawan trip expenses

Contrary to popular belief, Palawan can be a budget-friendly destination without sacrificing the quality of your travel experience. As the “Best Island in the World” twice in a row, Palawan has earned its spot as a premier tourist destination in the Philippines with its breathtaking natural wonders. Don’t let the misconception of it being a costly destination hold you back from exploring its beauty. Follow these tips for budget travel to Palawan and enjoy your dream vacation without spending a fortune.

Budget Beach Cottage in Port Barton Palawan

Budget Accommodation

Discover affordable accommodation options in Palawan without sacrificing comfort and convenience. While luxury beach resorts abound in exclusive locations, there are plenty of guesthouses, inns, and pension houses throughout the island, particularly in Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron. You can also find fully equipped campsites in secluded beaches or set up your own tent for free. Room rates usually range from 300 to 1,000 pesos depending on the type of room and amenities. 

Check out our list of budget-friendly accommodations that are definitely worth visiting.

Modessa Island is a budget-friendly island accommodation located in Roxas, Palawan. The island offers rustic and simple yet comfortable rooms that come with basic amenities such as fan, mosquito net, and shared bathrooms. Guests can enjoy the crystal clear waters of the island’s beach and go snorkeling, kayaking or simply relax in the hammocks. The island also offers activities such as snorkeling and diving. Modessa Island is a perfect choice for budget-conscious travelers who want to experience Palawan’s natural beauty.

Isla – The Island Experience is a budget island accommodation located in the tranquil Darocotan Island, off the coast of Palawan. It offers a unique experience of staying in eco-friendly bamboo huts and indulging in a variety of outdoor activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, island hopping, and beach volleyball. The island is surrounded by crystal clear waters, coral reefs, and white sandy beaches, perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature. The accommodation also features a restaurant that serves locally sourced seafood and other Filipino dishes, adding to the overall island experience.

Mad Monkey Hostel Nacpan Beach is a popular budget-friendly accommodation option located in the tranquil Nacpan Beach area in El Nido, Palawan. The hostel offers comfortable dormitory-style rooms with air conditioning and shared bathrooms. They also have private rooms available for those who want more privacy. Mad Monkey Hostel Nacpan Beach has a fun and laid-back atmosphere, with a spacious outdoor area where guests can socialize and relax. They also have a bar and restaurant on-site that serves delicious local and international cuisine.

Budget Transportation in Palawan

Tricycle Palawan

Tricycles are the most common form of public transportation in Palawan. They consist of a motorcycle attached to a sidecar with multiple seating and a covered roof. In Puerto Princesa, tricycles often operate as shared taxis, with fares ranging from Php 50 to Php 300, depending on the distance.

Jeepney is Budget Transportation Palawan

Long-distance buses and shuttle vans are the most convenient and inexpensive way to travel from Puerto Princesa to El Nido. They cover all destinations in Palawan from south to north and have frequent daily departures. They depart from the Terminal in Puerto Princesa New Market, with shuttle van fares being more expensive than buses.

Here are some additional tips to consider when traveling to Palawan:

  • Bring enough cash with you, especially if you plan on visiting the rural areas of Palawan where ATM machines and banks may not be easily accessible.
  • Eat at local eateries and street food vendors to save money on food.
  • Use public transportation like jeepneys and tricycles to get around instead of hiring a private vehicle.
  • Travel during the off-season to take advantage of lower rates and fewer crowds.
  • Visit free or low-cost attractions like beaches, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
  • Book tours and activities directly from the local operators instead of Viator

Backpackers walking in Port Barton Palawan

Senyor Lakwatsero

7 days in palawan: my itinerary and travel expenses.

palawan trip expenses

Palawan having been declared as a nature sanctuary of the world is blessed with so many natural attractions. There are just so many things to see and to do, and we wished we had more time. We knew all along that one week would not be enough to explore all the scenic grandeurs and wonders of this island province of the Philippines so we had to carefully plan our trip in order for us to be able to visit as many places as we could in just 7 days.

palawan trip expenses

Here is the summary of our 7-day Palawan adventure.

First Day 9:00AM – 9:15AM Puerto Princesa Airport to San Jose Central Terminal 11:00AM – 5:00PM San Jose Central Terminal to El Nido 5:00PM – 7:30PM Check in at the hotel/ Rest 7:30PM – 9:00PM Dinner

Second Day 7:00AM – 8:00AM Breakfast 9:00AM – 5:00PM Island hopping: Tour A 5:00PM – 7:30PM Shower/Rest 7:30PM – 9:00PM Dinner

Third Day 7:00AM – 8:00AM Breakfast 9:00AM – 5:00PM Island hopping: Tour C 5:00PM – 7:30PM Shower/Rest 7:30PM – 9:00PM Dinner

Fourth Day 6:00AM – 6:15AM Breakfast 6:20AM – 8:30AM Climb Taraw Cliffs 9:00AM – 5:00PM Island hopping: Tour C 5:00PM – 7:30PM Shower/Rest 7:30PM – 9:00PM Dinner

Fifth Day 6:00AM – 6:30AM Breakfast 7:00AM – 1:00AM El Nido to San Jose Central Terminal 4:00PM – 6:00PM San Jose Central Terminal to Sabang ( We were originally told that the jeep would leave at 2PM) 6:00PM – 7:00PM Check In/Rest 7:30PM – 9:00PM Dinner

Sixth Day 6:00AM – 8:30AM Breakfast/Morning Walk at Sabang Beach 8:30AM – 9:00AM Registration 9:00AM – 9:20AM Sabang beach to Underground River 9:20AM -10:00AM Underground River Tour 10:00AM -10:20AM Underground River to Sabang 10:20AM -12:20PM Sabang to San Jose Central Terminal 12:20PM – 12:40PM San Jose Central Terminal to Puerto Princesa City 1:00PM – 2:00PM Lunch 2:00PM – 5:30PM City Tour (Baker’s Hill, Mitra’s Ranch, Bee Farm, Crocodile Farm) 5:30PM -6:00PM Market 6:00PM -7:00PM Cook Dinner ( We stayed at a friend’s house so we were able to cook) 7:00PM – 8:00PM Dinner 8:00PM -9:00PM Shower/Rest

Seventh Day 6:00AM-7:00AM Breakfast 7:00AM- 7:30AM Puerto Princesa to Honda Bay 8:00AM – 1:30AM Honda Bay Tour 1:30AM- 2:00PM Honda Bay to Puerto Princesa City 2:00PM-4:30PM Shower/ Rest 4:30PM-4:45PM Puerto Princesa City to Airport 6:00PM to 7:30PM Puerto Princesa to NAIA

TRAVEL EXPENSES FOR TWO

Transportation Taxi fare from house to NAIA – P165.00 Taxi fare from NAIA to house- P160.00 Airfare – P2,800.00 ( P1,400.00 each, round trip PAL promo fare) Tricycle to San Jose Central Terminal – P120.00 (tricycle rent) Van from San Jose Central Terminal to El Nido – P1,400.00 (P700.00 each) Tricycle to Bacuit Bay – P30.00 Van from El Nido to San Jose Central Terminal -P1,000.00 (P500.00 each) Jeep from San Jose Central Terminal to Sabang – P240.00 (P120.00 each) Boat rental from Sabang to Underground River – P350.00 ( P175.00 each. Cheapest boat costs P700.00. There were two tourists who shared the boat with us) Jeep from Sabang to San Jose Central Terminal -P240.00( P120.00 each) Tricycle from San Jose Central Terminal to Puerto Princesa- P60.00 Tricycle rental for the city tour – P350.00 Tricycle rental to Honda bay – P300.00 (round trip) Tricycle from Puerto Princesa city to airport -P30.00

Accommodation: Og’s Pension at El Nido – P2,800.00 (P700.00 a night X 4 nights) Robert’s at Sabang Beach – P700.00 Puerto Princesa City – Free. We stayed at a friend’s house.

Tours/Permits/Entrance Fees Terminal Fee NAIA- P400.00 (P200.00 each) Terminal Fee Puerto Princesa- P100.00 (P50.00 each) El Nido Island Hopping Tour A – P1,200.00 (P600.00 each) El Nido Island Hopping Tour B – P1,300.00 (P650.00 each) El Nido Island Hopping Tour C- P1,400.00 (P700.00 each) Taraw Cliff Climb- P300.00 ( It was just me) Underground River Permit – P300.00 ( P150.00 each) Crocodile Farm Permit -P150.00 for 3 persons ( P50.00 each) Honda Bay Tour Boat Rental- P1,300.00 Pandan Island Entrance Fee -P75.00 for 3 persons (P25.00 each)

Food and Other Expenses

Breakfast and lunch is free at El Nido. Free breakfast is included in our hotel accommodation, and lunch is included the island hopping tour.

Fist Day Snacks and Lunch – P380.00 Dinner- P520.00

Second Day Snacks – P116.00 Dinner- P450.00

Third Day Snacks- P60.00 Dinner- P225.00 Beer- P200.00 ( 4 bottles, P50.00 each)

Fourth Day Dinner- P250.00

Fifth Day Breakfast- P100.00 Lunch- P250.00 Snacks- P70.00 Dinner- P250.00

Sixth Day Breakfast- P260.00 Lunch- P165.00 Unaccounted expenses: P1,240.00 ( market expenses, snacks, pasalubong, etc)

Seventh Day Lunch- P330.00

Total Expenses for two including airfare: P21,506.00. Each of us spent P10, 753.00 each . If I add my guide fee for my Taraw cliff climb, my total expenses was P11,053.00 .

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42 thoughts on “7 days in palawan: my itinerary and travel expenses”.

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Good ideas photos.

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im planning to go to palawan this weekend for a 5day,4night stay. i was wondering if you can give me the info on the person(s) that handled your tours. Im hoping you can reply quickly because i leave for palawan in 2 days

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Hi jeff, thanks for dropping by. All of these were DIY’s so I’m afraid I couldn’t give you any contact info. Just in case you want to do it on your own too, there are some tips that you may find helpful in my other entries. have fun!

Im sorry… whats DIY?

Do-it-yourself. I usually plan my own itineray whenever I travel. It saves me money and I get to learn more about the places before I visit them. If you have 5 days to spend in Palawan, I suggest you go to El Nido. You will love it there.

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Hi, I didn’t see you secured entry permit before going to underground river. Does securing entry permit necessary?

Hi Annie, It is necessary. The fee is listed in this post under Tours/Permits/Entrance Fees. 🙂

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Hi there, I am intending to stay a few days in Sabang in February, however until now I haven’t succeed to contact any affordable accomodation. How did you manage that with Roberts? How would rate the place? Would you please give me some accomodation advices in Sabang?

Hi Michelle,

Most of the cheaper accomodations in Sabang are nipa hut cottages with no aircon. We went to Sabang without a reservation and just looked around for a place to stay when we got there. Robert’s seemed to be better as compared to others of the same type. this may help. http://www.gopalawan.com/central-palawan/sabang/roberts-resort-sabang/

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May i know is there any fixed hour for carter boat to Honda Bay? The seafoos u buy at market at everning still fresh?

Cheu Leng, you may use the boat probably until 4 or 5PM only and you’re only limited to go to the destinations specified in the Honda bay tour.

Yes, the seafoods were fresh 🙂

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I am planning to visit Coron and I want to include Caluit Island to see the Safari Wildlife. Any suggestion about it?

Btw, your blogs are well-written,clear and very informative. I always visit different travel blog sites as it helps me to my DIY trip. And I must say you’re one of the reader-friendly bloggers I’ve came across with.

Keep blogging! Will be starting mine soon.

Thanks, Margarita. I suggest you allot 4 days to spend in Coron. 1st day-Coron tour ( lakes,lagoons and great snorkeling), second day-banana/malcapuya loop (beautiful beaches) 3rd day- calauit tour/maquinit hotspring 4th day- mt. tapyas, roam around town, buy pasalubong. 4 days would still not be enough to fully enjoy coron, though. have fun! i know of a boatman/travel guide( highly recommended by those who’d been there) who can help you plan your itinerary. his name is jong-09084499523

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Hi, I really like your blog, It’s very informative and the pictures are great. Just want to know approximately how much you’ve spent for your vacation in coron palawan…coz I saw the breakdown of your expenses for your puerto princesa and elnido tours…Thanks

thanks minette! more or less P5,500.00(3 days 2 nights, all in, except airfares) for a group of four. you would spend less if there’d be more of you in a group ,and if decide to spend the first night in town instead of sleeping in Banana sland. But that would be less fun, of course!

may i know the Tour A to C at El Nido, which one is worth to go? Because i only spend 3D2N at there. Is snockeling equipment like mask, fin & life jacket included?

I couldn’t decide which one is better as I enjoyed both. Snorkeling equipments are not included in the island hopping package but you may ask the boatman to provide you with these for an additional charge. Have Fun!

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Hi, do you have the number of the person who arranged your tour in El Nido? And by the way, when you did the climb, was it easy? Seem’s interesting and I feel like doing it too.. hehehe..

Hi Ryan! We went to El Nido on our own. It was a DIY (do-it-yourselft)trip. The climb was easy but quite dangerous. You just need to be extra careful as you go up. 🙂

Yup! diy, but you were not able to get the number? Too bad. Im planning to go with Art Cafe for the Island Hopping but then I heard that food is the same everyday! and parang konti hehehe yung sa Island hopping niyo with OG’s, was the food okay? Sa Marina kami magstay.. hehehe.BTW, i might copy your itenerary! hehe.. thanks.. 😀 Hopefully I get to climb it as well. 😀

Ryan, Ok yung food sa island hopping namin with OG’s. Have fun 🙂

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Para sa mga back packers na pupunta ng El Nido at gustong mag pa reserve ng seats sa van that leaves 7am, 9am and 11am. contact my mobile 09198752377

JC, Anong van company to? Thanks!

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sir sa Rovics Inn ba ung unang pic?

That’s infront of Ogie’s 🙂

Hi Monette! Musta na! I’ve seen that you’ve been travelling a lot too lately. You may want to start a travel blog too. It’s a good hobby. 🙂

Unfortunately, there are no public transpo (vans/bus) from PP to El Nido that travel at night, unless you would rent a private van which is very expensive (11K, I think) The road is OK. There were only a few parts that were rough but these were under construction when I went there last year, so the condition maybe better now. Have fun!

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Thanks for the input S’Gerum. Believe it or not, I’m so inspired from your El Nido photos in facebook that’s why I promised myself to see the place one day. I just got lucky to have booked a flight to Palawan thru’ the Cebu Pacific’s piso fare 😀

I’ll think about starting my travel blog..thanks for the suggestion. 😀

Hi S’Gerum. I like reading your blogs and thanks for sharing your travel itinerary, which I find very informative and easy to read. We will be visiting Palawan in November and I am so excited to see El Nido myself! As early as now, I’m getting all the information I need so I could start planning/writing my itinerary as well. 😀

BY the way, are there vans travelling from PP to El Nido at night (7pm onwards..)? or is it advisable to travel at night? (I heard some parts of the road are quite rough..) Thanks !

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hi! i’m planning a seven-day trip to palawan too and i’m so glad i bumped into your site coz now i can really say that an el nido-sabang-pps trip can be done in diy!

just a question though, what time is the last jeep from sabang to san jose terminal and the last bus from san jose to pps? we’re not doing the city tour and hunda bay so we want to spend more time in sabang.

thanks for visiting zee 🙂 last jeep from sabang to puerto princesa leaves at noon. you don’t need a bus from san jose terminal to get to pps. just hire a tricycle and you’ll be in puerto princesa in more or less 15 minutes

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ask ko lang po kung kelangan pa ba ng denr permit, tour guide and Helmet with Light for the under ground river?

the permit and helmet, yes. the tour guide, not necessarily. yung helmet, that will be provided before you ride the small boat to enter the cave. 🙂

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hello Senyor Lakwatsero,

First of all, respect for the job well done (very very well!)with all your blogging, posted photos etc. I actually marked your website as reference to my Philippines Itinerary plan. Me and my husband gonna do backpacking in Palawan on January. My inquiry is, how can I connect coron, el nido, puerto princesa (not to mention underground river tour & honda bay tour) all together when we only have 6 nights for everything then after the last day we have to go to Boracay.

I’ve done so much researching etc… but, I’m still helpless.

sailing requires too0o much time, flying is limited destination.(plus some are expensive since we wanna see the other part of phil as well)

any suggestion po? advise? t’would be really much appreciated.

thanks, jane. based on your comment, i believe you have all the information you need. the fact is, 6 days would not be enough to explore all the destinations you mentioned. i suggest you spend more time at el nido and puerto princesa as there are so many places to go and things to do there. have fun. 🙂

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sir kung mag isa lang po ako pupunta sa palawan mkakaride din po b ako sa underground water o puedeng mki share sa ibang boat.

sir kung mag isa lang ako sa pagpunta sa underground river puedeng mki join sa ibang group.

sir bka may alam k n pupunta sa palawan na naghahanap ng makakasama para tipid at hatian sa gastos kapag my kasama pki p.m n lang po.

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Hi what a great blog! I’m travelling to Piuerto Princessa with my husband and 1 year old daughter in January. We are there for 7 days. What would you recommend seeing taking into consideration we have a very young child?

Thanks Karen! I’m sorry but I don’t feel comfortable recommending places to visit with a one-year old baby. The places mentioned on this post however shouldn’t be difficult to reach. Taraw cliffs obviously should be out of the question and perhaps the underground river too.

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Hi, san nakakakuha ng tour package?

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Planning for a trip on january to palawan. Which is better to go, coron or el nido? Or can we do them both in 7 days?

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Puerto Princesa, Palawan: Complete Budget and Travel Guide

  • Raz & Sonny
  • October 18, 2017

Are you planning to have your vacation or visit in Puerto Princesa, Palawan? Let me help you plan your travel using this comprehensive guide with complete itinerary and DIY suggestions for your own 3 days and 2 nights (3D/2N) tour!

This post is the last installment of Puerto Princesa, Palawan series. If you missed the earlier articles or need to go back, use the links below.

The Plan and Itinerary Puerto Princesa, Palawan: A Walk-through to the City of Living God

Puerto Princesa City Tour: DIY Travel Guide: Explore Puerto Princesa City Easily A Brief Tour at Butterfly Garden & Palawan Tribal Village An Ex-Situ Adventure: Palawan Crocodile Farm Mitra Ranch: Overlooking the Islands of Honda Bay Baker’s Hill, Palawan: Not Just Baked Goodies for Pasalubong

Puerto Princesa Nature Tour: Lights out! Let them Shine: Ihawig Firefly Watching Crystal Waters of Honda Bay, Palawan: A Half Day Island Tour (DIY) Beauty of Sitio Sabang, Puerto Princesa: The Gateway to Underground River (Semi DIY) Mangrove Paddle Boat Tour in Sitio Sabang, Puerto Princesa

Puerto Princesa Budget Guide

It was told in the plan and itinerary article that this is indeed the farthest trip we had so far. So basically, planning started from scratch, and like others, we consulted many other blogs and articles. We came up on a budget of Php 7,500 per pax. So that gives us a Php 15,000* budget to share among both of us. You can say that this is a steep one but we considered our taste, so this really will not go to the lowest bracket of cheap budget guide but will represent what the average expense will be. Let’s find out if we are successful with this decision below. Although I am confident we can adhere with this budget right from the start! Haha. 🙂

* Plane tickets cost not included.

Accommodation Expenses

Puerto Princesa is one of the hottest destinations in the Philippines. Not only providing as the cheapest way to get into El Nido, Palawan but also have it’s own Puerto Princesa Underground River that is worth visiting for. So, finding an accommodation is really not a problem regardless of your budget. Provided, that you book ahead of time especially if you are coming or having your vacation during peak season. As we asked, the peak season is from the months of March to June, having April and May as the busiest months of the year. That’s a good news! It will leave you many many months as an alternative.

For us, we targeted an accommodation that will only cost us Php 1,000 per night max. You already have many choices in this price, and others already offer a complimentary breakfast too! During our stay in the city, we spent the night in Matutina Pensionne House. For our Sitio Sabang stay, it is with Cafe Sabang. Both are budget accommodation but the latter proved that it really has a rustic appeal. Make sure to book your accommodation at least 3 weeks ahead of time especially during peak season.

Check out Sitio Sabang: Beauty of Sitio Sabang, Palawan: The Gateway to Underground River

Travel Expenses

The easiest way to go Puerto Princesa, Palawan is via plane. Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines and AirAsia have several flights per day from key airports going to the city. An alternative way is to go via ferry from Manila, but trust me, yes, it will be cheaper but you will not like a more than 24 hours travel. Are you going to trade this with a less than 2 hours travel via plane? Hmm, we are going to a vacation to relax and unwind, anyway.

Puerto Princesa by Air

So, let’s talk about plane ticket cost. Average ticket cost can go anywhere around Php 2,000 – 4,000 one-way. But of course, you are planning this right on a budget so you should not pick a ticket with a price that high. We are able to get a round trip ticket for only around Php 2,000 per person during AirAsia’s sale.  This can go lower, but you will be forced to follow flight schedules you may not like. Watch out for seat sales like this and you can really save lots of money.

Within Destination Expenses

The major roads of Puerto Princesa are plied by multi-cabs.  This is good for a local commuter and  for those that are looking for additional adventure. But for starter traveler like us, this isn’t the best option. Aside from having a limited time, we are going for comfort, convenience, and cost balance, so we decided to  charter tricycles during our tour. The travel expense will vary greatly depending on your agreement with the driver. Just to give you an estimation, a chartered tricycle for the standard city tour will cost you around Php 600 – 700 for the whole day trip. This is already good for a maximum of 4 persons.  As expected, we spent more than this as we divided the city tour in three parts. More on this later. 🙂

If you know how to drive, you can rent a motorbike for Php 500 for the whole day or Php 100 per hour. You can find these motorbikes just beside the airport or just ask your hotel about this, they can help you find one.

Since I love doing things online, our trip to Sitio Sabang (PPUR Drop-Off Point) was booked ahead of time via Biyaheroes/Lexxus Shuttle Service. The trip cost us Php 200 per person, one-way.

Biyaheroes Online Booking

Food Expenses

When it comes into food, expenses will vary greatly on a person-to-person basis. Assuming you behave the same like us (WT. behave?), you will spend anywhere between 300 to 700 pesos per meal (2 pax) on a restaurant. This is because you wanted to try what the food is in Puerto Princesa, Palawan.

palawan trip expenses

If you are not okay spending higher than usual, your favorite fast food chains are all in Puerto Princesa. Carinderias are also available. You have many choices when it comes into food. If you go the other way, Balinsasayaw Restaurant, Badjao Seafront Restaurant, La Terrasse, KaLui Restaurant and others are all waiting for you to dine with them.  And of course, you may want to try eating right in front of the Baywalk for a cheaper but tasty experience.

palawan trip expenses

Tour Expenses

For tour expenses, expect to pay about the following price range per person:

Puerto Princesa City Tour – Php 500 to 700 Ihawig Firefly Watching – Php 1,100 to 1,400 Honda Bay Island Hopping – Php 1,200 to 1300 Underground River Tour – Php 1,800 to 2,200

Tour Cost Estimate: Php 5,600

These prices are quoted for 2017, assuming that you will book your tours with a travel agency. Accommodation for your entire stay is not yet included. Of course, there is another way to spend lower than these. It is either you book your entire tour with them including your accommodation to drive the cost lower or do some of the tours, DIY (Do-It-Yourself). We did a mixture of tour package and DIY for our Puerto Princesa to make the trip go on how we like it and the total cost to be a little lower. To dig into details, visit the links below:

Do-It-Yourself Tour City Tour DIY:  DIY Travel Guide: Explore Puerto Princesa City Easily Honda Bay DIY:  Crystal Waters of Honda Bay, Palawan: A Half Day Island Tour (DIY)

Tour Package Ihawig Firefly Watching:   Lights Out! Let Them Shine: Ihawig Firefly Watching, Palawan Puerto Princesa Underground River:  Beauty of Sitio Sabang, Palawan: The Gateway to Underground River

Do note that tour packages costs are higher during peak season. Also, look carefully on the fine print of the package. Some may seem to cost higher but offer some extras like buffet lunch or dinner compared to the cheaper ones.

palawan trip expenses

Travel Guide

  • Plan your trip ahead of time, list places that is near each other so that you aren’t going into places then going back again, skipping the opportunity to save time and money.
  • Book accommodation in advance, and target travel dates that has less tourist coming in. Prices are typically lower during off peak season.
  • For trips like Puerto Princesa, try to get a flight schedule the earliest time of the day possible for your arrival, and late night departure for your last day. This will get you into the place early morning, maximizing your time and saving money for accommodation cost.
  • Consider chartering a vechicle instead of utilizing public transport if the price is reasonable. This may sound not-so-okay for budget conscious, but this will give you more time to explore destination.

To help you better plan your tour, see the map below. Places to visit, where to eat and other areas in Puerto Princesa is pinned on this map.

3D/2N Complete Itinerary

To view our followed itinerary, visit the main article, The Plan and Itinerary here . Just jump on the bottom part of the page.

Expenses Summary

Below are our actual expenses during the trip. You may want to check so you can have an idea on how much you need to include in your own budget. I did not include the cost of our plane tickets as it was paid several months before the trip. Let’s start listing the expenses as we had set foot in Puerto Princesa.

Tricycle to Matutina – 50 Baywalk Streetfood + Water – 75 Matutina Pensionne House – 800 Ihawig Firefly Watching w/ Dinner (1,100 x 2) – 2,200 Firefly Souvenir Photo – 150

Breakfast @ Matutina – 0 Tricycle to Honda Bay – 450 (two-way) Boat Rental – 1,300 Environmental Fee (150 x 2) – 300 Snorkel Gear  (100 x 1) – 100 Entrance Fees: – Starfish Island (50 x 2) – 100 – Pambato Reef (50 x 2) – 100 – LuLi Island (60 x 2) – 120 – Cowrie Island (75 x 2) – 150 Drinking Water – 60 Tricycle to McDo – 20 Lunch at McDo (89 x 2) – 178

Tricycle to Crocodile Farm/Butterfly Garden – 500 (drop-off to San Jose included) Butterfly Garden ( 50 x 2) – 100 Crocodile Farm (40 x 2) – 80 Lexxus Van to Sitio Sabang (200 x 2 x 2) – 800 (two way) Cafe Sabang – 700 Underground River Tour (1200 x 2) – 2,400 Dinner – 599

Pre-paid Breakfast @ Cafe Sabang – 300 Mangrove Paddle Boat Entrance – 20 Paddle Boat Tour (200 x 2) – 400 Lunch – 605 Tricycle to Mitra Ranch/Baker’s Hill/Baywalk – 300 Mitra Mansion Entrance Fee (20 x 2) – 40 Dinner – 300 Tricycle to Airport – 50 Airport Terminal Fee (200 x 2) – 400*

Subtotal:   Php 13,747 Per person: Php 6,873.50

* we are not prepared for this.

As you can see for the above computation, we are able to follow our budget of Php 15,000. We even have a surplus of more than Php 1,200. But, if we include the cost of pasalubong we bought and other miscellaneous/personal expenses, the total will be around Php 16,000 (2 pax). You get the idea, the total cost of your entire trip will depend on your other expenses.  So, include your travel expenses going to the airport and your pre-set pasalubong allowance as well and you are good to go. 🙂

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Raz Bernardino (@razbernardino)

I can say that our trip to Puerto Princesa is a successful one. But of course, there are more reasons to go back here and also check other nearby places like El Nido and Port Barton. I hope this article helped you plan your own escapade to Puerto Princesa, Palawan!

For your next reading:  Puerto Princesa, Palawan: A Walk-through to the City of Living God

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CORON PALAWAN TRAVEL GUIDE with Budget Itinerary

CORON PALAWAN TRAVEL GUIDE with Budget Itinerary

By continuing to read this article, you agree to double check with the authorities or other concerned entities for the latest updates.

Once is never enough.

Heck, when it comes to Coron, four times still won’t cut it. This little tourist town in Palawan one of the first destinations we set foot in as travel bloggers, but even after three more visits, we still can’t get enough of it. Its jagged corners are bursting with natural beauty and cultural significance: from the lakes and lagoons of Coron Island, to neighboring beaches, to shipwreck dive sites and coral gardens, to saltwater hot springs, to postcard-worthy views from its mountaintops. Heck, they even have an African Safari nearby.

Yet, every time we return, we always find something new. Coron changes fast, and it’s both good and bad. All it took was return to the top of Mt. Tapyas and we noticed just how much development has sprawled across this side of the island. New hotels and restaurants flank more of its paved streets. More tours are opened to tourists, whose numbers, I bet, more than doubled since our last visit. Prices climb at a near-scary rate.

Coron transforms faster than we update our travel guides, which is part of the reason why we return to Coron more more frequently than to other destinations. Anyway, here’s our latest, most updated Coron Travel Guide. Last updated: September 2018.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

Understanding Coron and Busuanga

Coron is just one of the four municipalities that make up the Calamianes, a stellar group of islands that speck the waters of North Palawan. Busuanga Island is the largest of the group and is politically divided into two municipalities: Busuanga and Coron. Coron is the main tourism hub of the region and has more accommodations and tours, and is the usual jump off point to the surrounding destinations, which is why many of the attractions in Calamianes are often associated with Coron even when they are technically part of other towns.

For example, Calauit and Black Island are actually in Busuanga, but most people think they’re in Coron. The town of Culion is also often tagged Coron, when it is, in fact, a separate municipality.

Another confusing bit: Coron Town is NOT on Coron Island. As mentioned, Coron Town occupies half of Busuanga Island. Coron Island, emphasis on island, is a separate smaller island off the coast of Coron Town. Still with us? Here’s a map to help you digest it better.

Coron Map

How to Get to Coron

For tourists, the main gateway to the Calamianes Islands is Busuanga Airport (USU) , more formally known as Francisco B. Reyes Airport. It is less than an hour away from the town proper of Coron.

But Coron also has a pier, and over the past few years, new boat routes have opened for tourists coming from Manila and other parts of Palawan like Puerto Princesa and El Nido.

Manila to Coron

Flying is the easiest and fastest way to reach Coron from Manila. Cebu Pacific Air, Philippine Airlines, and Skyjet all operate Manila-Busuanga flights.

We’ve tried multiple dates to compare prices, and found the following:

  • Skyjet offers the lowest year-round fares.
  • Cebu Pacific does more promos for Coron. So if you’re not in a hurry to travel, you can wait for a Cebu Pacific SALE and you can score roundtrip tickets for as low as P2400 (flights only) or P3100 (with baggage).
  • Philippine Airlines has good rates, too. There are dates when PAL has much lower fares.

Cebu Pacific Manila to Busuanga Flight

Cebu to Coron

Philippine Airlines offers competitive Busuanga fares from Cebu and Clark.

Cebu to Coron Flights

Clark to Coron

If you book in advance, you might snag these fares.

Clark to Coron Flights

Puerto Princesa to Coron

2Go Travel ferries passengers from Puerto Princesa to Coron, leaving every Wednesday and Saturday at 11:59PM and arrives the next day at 3PM.

Here are the rates per accommodation type and additional fees.

2GO Travel Puerto Princesa to Coron

El Nido to Coron

Montenegro Fastcraft launched in September 2016 a new Coron-El Nido (and vice versa) route, which cuts the travel time to only 4 hours. Schedule and rates below.

Coron to El Nido Fastcraft

Busuanga Airport to Coron Town

As soon as you emerge from the airport’s Arrival area, you’ll be greeted by people asking you what hotel you will be staying. Don’t worry, these are barkers looking for passengers. I was hesitant to go with them because they were a bit too proactive, to say the least, but they are legit if they are in uniform. They are asking for your hotel so they would know which van/shuttle you should board.

  • Travel time : 30-40 minutes
  • Fare is P150 per person
  • You can also hire the entire van for P1500.

The journey is scenic because you’ll be driving across a ranch. If you’re lucky, you’ll see herds of cows crossing the road.

Where to Stay in Coron

There are so many lodging options in Coron but you might still want to strongly consider booking in advance specially during summer (March-May).

On our last visit, we were hosted by Coron Soleil , which is a newly built complex that harbors the Coron Soleil Garden Resort, a 4-star resort. But here’s the catch: located in the same complex is the more pocket-friendly Coron Soleil EXPRESS , a 3-star budget hotel. The thing is, guests staying at Soleil Express have access to the amenities of the complex, which means you’ll be able to enjoy 4-star resort amenities at the price of a budget hotel!

Here’s Coron Soleil’s psychedelic swimming pool, the centerpiece of the resort.

Coron Soleil Garden Resort

Check Rates & Availability

Top Budget Hotels Under P2000

If money is an issue, here are some of the top budget hotels under P2000 per night, according to Agoda users as of March 2019.

Hop Hostel Coron Palawan

  • Hop Hostel . Calle Nueva, Coron Town Proper. Check Rates and Availability
  • Aquilah Homestay . Calle Nueva St. Brgy. Poblacion 5. Check Rates and Availability
  • The Bay Area Coron . 183 National Hwy, Coron Town Proper. Check Rates and Availability
  • Happy Camper Hostel . Coron Town Proper. Check Rates and Availability

Top Budget Guest Houses Under P1000

If you’re working with a really limited budget, consider no-frills, basic guest houses and inns. Here are the four highest-rated around and under P1000 per night, as scored by Agoda users.

Ahras Place Coron Palawan

  • Ahras Place . Coron Town Proper. Check Rates and Availability
  • Quiet Place to Stay in Coron . Check Rates and Availability

Search for more: Coron Hotels

Where to eat in coron.

Food is expensive in Coron. According to our boatmen, it’s because many of the ingredients are being imported from Mindoro. But it doesn’t explain why seafood dishes are also expensive.

The price of restaurant meals range from P150 to P400. That P150 is often composed of just a cup of rice and a small serving of a Pinoy viand like tapa, adobo, or liempo. Pasta dishes are usually at P250, grilled seafood (squid or fish) at around P200, and fruit shake at P100-P120.

If you’re not picky, you’ll find cheaper meals at carinderias all around town, but they’re getting harder and harder to find these days. But you’ll find those serving tapsilog for P100 or less. There are small kerbside barbeque stands which costs P10-P25 per stick.

On our last visit, we chose to eat at various restaurants in town, but we found that many of them are overpriced, and they kinda taste the same. Haha. With the following exceptions:

Kawayanan Coron

  • La Morena Cafe . We ordered this seafood pasta and a big glass of melon shake. Both are unforgettable.
  • Carl’s BBQ . Order the Baby Back Ribs. Half slab is P350; Full slab, P520. Huge servings. And tastes great!
  • Kawayanan Grill Station . Seafood Platter (P450). Good for 2-3 people. Fresh and grilled perfectly.
  • KT’s Sinugba sa Balai . There’s nothing really special about the taste, but the serving here is big and prices affordable, reasonable.
  • La Sirenetta . Kinilaw na Tuna.

Aside from La Morena, there are two other coffee places along the main road: Coffee Kong and Fika Indulgence. All three serve satisfying drinks and desserts.

Locals also kept on recommending Santino’s Grill and Amigos’ Smokes and Grill . We weren’t able to try ’em. We tried, but both were closed when we visited because…

Important! Most restaurants and cafes in Coron are open only during lunch time (11am-2pm) and at night (6pm onwards). If you decide to have late lunch at around 3pm, your options will be significantly narrower.

How to Get Around Coron

There are so many interesting and unique destinations in Coron and in nearby towns of Busuanga and Culion. If traveling just within Coron town proper, you can simply take a tricycle. Fare is P10 per person.

But when visiting island destinations, you have two options: join a group tour or charter a private boat .

If you join a Group Tour

You’ll be paying per person and will be sharing the trip with other tourists. You’ll find these tours offered by various operators throughout the town. This is great for those traveling alone or with a small group.

  • Pros : You don’t need to worry about anything else. You just pay one time, show up, and the agency will do everything for you. You also get to meet other travelers.
  • Cons : You have almost no control of the itinerary and how much time you will be spending at each stop.

If you charter a private boat

You will need to book with Calamian Tourist Boat Association . Their office is at the near end of the Lualhati Park. They have standardized the rates of boat trips depending on the size of the boat needed, the number of passengers, and your destination.

Is it cheaper? Only if you’re a big group. Rates depend on the boat size. For example, for Coron Island Tour, a boat that can accommodate 2-4 passengers costs P2700, 5-8 pax for P3250, or 9-15 pax for P3800. Obviously, you’ll be maximizing this if you’re a group of 10 or bigger.

  • Pros : Although there is a suggested itinerary, you have total control of your time and schedule. If you want to stay longer somewhere, you can. If you want to skip a stop, you can too. And as I said, if you’re a big group, it will turn out much cheaper than joining a group tour.
  • Cons : The published rates cover only the boat fee. NOT included are the tour guide fee (P500) and entrance fees. Food is NOT included either, so you will need to bring your own provisions. Fortunately, the public market is near the port and the boatmen can prepare and cook your meals at no extra cost, so you can simply shop for ingredients before your trip.

Coron Tours

The following are some of the most popular tours in Coron with the usual destinations covered. Inclusions vary so please confirm with the tour or boat operator first before you seal the deal. I also indicated the usual rates as of March 2017, but bear in mind that these rates vary from operator to operator.

We also provided links to corresponding Klook tours. However, we have to say that we actually find the tours on Klook a bit pricier than usual. I would still just find another tour when I’m there. But if you’re a long-time Klook user and you’re more comfortable booking with them, go ahead.

For you want to pull a DIY or charter a private boat, you’ll find the entrance fee rates in the photo caption. However, like I said, if you’re joining a group tour, you don’t need to worry about the entrance fees because they’re included in the group tour package.

Coron Island Tour

Group tour : P1500-P1800 per pax (All in)

Private boat : P2700 for 2-4 pax, P3250 for 8 pax, P3800 for 9-15 pax

palawan trip expenses

This is the classic Coron Island Tour. The usual Group Tour rate is somewhere between P1500 and P1800. However, you’ll find tours for only P1300 or even as low as P750. Why the big difference? Check the itinerary. The most iconic attractions in Coron are Kayangan Lake and Twin Lagoon . Many of the offers we found don’t cover both. Some just include Kayangan Lake and a few other stops, or Twin Lagoon and a few other stops. If you want to make the most of your stay, book a tour that has both in the itinerary.

Coron Town Tour

Group tour : P550+ per pax

palawan trip expenses

Alternatively, you might want to do this by yourself because all these are accessible by tricycle and even walking (except Maquinit)

Mt. Tapyas does not require an entrance fee. It’s best enjoyed at sunrise!

Maquinit Hotsprings can be reached by tricycle. Fare is P350 roundtrip. Entrance fee: P200 per person. Best enjoyed after climbing Mt. Tapyas.

Calauit Safari Park Tour

Group tour : P2500-P3000 per pax Private boat : P9300 for 2-4 pax, P10400 for 5-8 pax, P17000 for 15 pax

palawan trip expenses

If you’re joining a Group Tour, you have two options: by land or by sea.

If by sea , you will be stopping at the following:

Calauit Tour

Other stops: North Cay, South Cay

I personally prefer touring by sea because I am in love with Black Island, which is often not included in land tours.

If by land , your stops will be 2 – 4 in the following, depending on the agency. Make sure to check the itinerary first before booking with any travel agency:

  • Calauit Safari Park
  • Concepcion Falls
  • Malbato Chapel
  • North/South Cay
  • Pamilacan Island
  • Lusong Coral Garden and Gun Boat Wreck

If you’re booking with Klook, the stops will be Calauit Safari Park and either Pamilacan Island or North Cay. I’ve been to both Pamilacan and North Cay, and Black Island is so much better. But if you want to book with Klook, follow the link below:

Malcapuya Island Tour (aka Island Escapade Tour or Beaches Tour)

Group tour : P950-P1700 per pax Private boat : P4350 per 4 pax, P5450 per 8 pax, P7100 per 15 pax

palawan trip expenses

Stops: Malcapuya Island, Banana Island, Bulog Dos Island. Some tours include Malaroyroy Island.

Culion Historical Tour

Group tour : P1300 per pax Private boat : P4350 for 2-4 pax, P4900 for 5-8 pax, P7100 for 9-15 pax

Culion Tours

You might also want to check out this travel guide if you want this trip Do-It-Yourself (DIY) style: Culion Travel Guide

Glittering Fireflies and Plankton Tour (with Buffet Dinner)

Group Tour : P950 per pax Package includes : Buffet dinner, hotel transfers, guide fee, and kayak fee Pick-up at 6pm, tour ends at 9:30pm Private Tour NOT AVAILABLE

I can’t stop raving about this tour. This is super magical! Although the fireflies are cool, the real stars of the night are the bioluminescent plankton. When you dip your hands in the water, it sparkles. And when you tap the sides of the boats, the most amazing thing happened: the water beneath us glittered and the lights spread out across the water! If I didn’t hold my jaws in place, they would have dropped into the water. It was insane!

We tried taking photos and videos but it’s just too dark. But it is similar to what’s happening in this video. Not the same, but close to it.

To book, you can message this FB Page: Calamian Islands Travel and Tours

Lusong Ship Wreck and Bulog Dos Tour

Stops : Lusong Shipwreck, Lusong Coral Garden, Bulog Dos Island, Pass Island Group Tour : P1600 per pax

Lusong Coral Garden, Coron

Sample Coron Itinerary + Breakdown of Expenses

The best thing about Coron is that the neighboring islands — all equally mesmerizing — are just a boat ride away. Thus, a trip to Coron will never be complete without a visit to the other destinations surrounding it. Because boat rides and tours are all organized into day tours, it is very easy to build an itinerary.

Below is a sample 4-day 3-night itineraries for 2 pax. I set the meal allowance at P200 per meal outside organized tours. This Coron itinerary assumes you will be staying at a guest house at P1000 per night (P500 per person).

As always, please make the necessary adjustments to fit your flight schedule, duration of stay, or tour preferences.

Day 1: ARRIVAL, DIY TOWN TOUR 09:30 am – ETA Busuanga Airport, travel to Coron: P150 10:30 am – Arrival in Coron, check in at hotel 11:10 am – Lunch: P200 12:00 pm – Canvas tour prices, book tours 04:00 pm – Climb to Mt. Tapyas Viewdeck: FREE 06:30 pm – Maquinit Hot Springs: P350 fare (P175) + P200 entrance fee 08:30 pm – Dinner: P200

Day 2: CORON ISLAND TOUR 07:00 am – Coron Island Tour: P1500 06:00 pm – Fireflies & Night Tour: P950

Day 3: CALAUIT TOUR 07:00 am – Calauit Safari Park Tour: P2500 08:00 pm – Dinner: P200

Day 4: DEPARTURE 06:00 am – Wake up call 07:00 am – Breakfast: P100 08:20 am – Van travel to airport: P150 09:20 am – ETA Busuanga Airport, Terminal Fee: P100

That’s a total of P7925 , excluding airfare.

If that’s still too steep for you, you can remove the Fireflies Tour (please don’t! It’s really good!) and then replace Calauit Tour with something cheaper like Malcapuya Island Tour. This will bring down the total cost to only: P5975!

If you’re able to snag a P3200 promo fare (believe me, it’s possible!), the total is only at P9175 .

Other tips for the Poor Traveler

  • If the cost above is still much higher than your budget, stay at a cheaper place. There are fan rooms available for only P400 per night.
  • Build a group . Instead of joining a group tour, build a big group that you can share a private tour with. If you can create a party of 8 or more, it would bring down the cost significantly.
  • Pick a room within walking distance of Lualhati Park . Tricycle ride costs P10 per person.
  • Leave No Trace ! Take your trash with you when you leave, and respect wildlife. Coron is naturally beautiful. Let’s keep it that way!

2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣0️⃣ • 1️⃣ • 1️⃣7️⃣ (updated) 2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣7️⃣ • 5️⃣ • 1️⃣8️⃣ (first up)

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guest

Gorgeous! We laid over in Manila 2 weeks back flying from Chiang Mai back to NYC. Wonderful place to even fly over, that country is ;) The locals are amazingly friendly, inviting and so proud to show you their beautiful country. I was in the airport for 12 hours and already fell in love with the Philippines. I only imagine how a trip to Coron would go.

Thanks for sharing this eye-popping guide :) Fabulously helpful write up.

Aubrey Rodriguez

You are incredible, Yoshke!!! We are visiting Coron next month and this is a tremendous help. As always, you are my go-to travel blogger and you never disappoint haha. Thanks a million. Just a side note, I’m hoping that the private boat rate for Coron Island Tour just had a typo error; it says 12000 above. :) More power and success to come your way my fave blogger. :)

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[…] More detailed travel guide here: Coron Budget Travel Guide […]

Kath

Hi sir, “That’s a total of P7875, excluding airfare.” Is the rate for 2 people? Coz booked a flight to coron for 4 days 3 nights. We’re looking at hotel or package. What would you suggest. Plus there’s 9 of us

Yosh Dimen

Per person po.

Rchl

hi! what travel agency po yung coron island tour? thanks :)

Boris

This was an a amazing read and a huge inspiration. My girlfriend and I are traveling to Coron for 3 days at the beginning of March and are very much looking to copy the example itinerary suggested in the post. One question, would you recommend booking the tours in advance or it will be possible to still manage to do that after our arrival. I guess it would depend how busy a period it would be at that time. Thank you very much.

Hi Boris, we were there 2nd week of March last year and yes, you can book when you’re there. It wasn’t that crowded yet. :)

Michelle Doy

I love this blog! The most detailed one i’ve read, after having read a few.

I’ll be a solo traveller heading for Coron soon, and i’m so glad I came across this one.

Thanks so much.

Although i’ll only be staying for 2 nights (super kulang i know) atleast I have an idea which destinations I shouldn’t miss. ☺️

Thank you rin for visiting! :)

arjay

I’ll be at Coron w/my girlfriend on March. We plan to go on a private tour so we can squeeze all the destinations we want in one day.

For the Coron Island Loop tour the agency is charging us 4,150/pax or 8,300 for 2pax (We picked 8 destinations: Kayangan, Barracuda, Twin Lagoon, Hidden Lagoon, Siete Pecados, Skeleton Wreck, Banul Beach and Smith Point White beach).

For the Beaches Escapade (Malcapuya, Banana, Bulog, Waling-Waling) they are charging us 4,500/pax or 9,000 for 2pax. This is our first time in Coron, you think the prices are reasonable or rip off na?

How is Globe LTE signal around Coron town proper?,Our accommodation will be at the town proper and wifi available only at the common areas. I will need to be online during the night cos i work freelance. Is Globe LTE ok? Or i can purchase Smart sim if Smart is better. I just need to have an idea.

Hi Arjay, for a private tour, yes, that sounds reasonable. :)

And yes, Globe performs well in Coron town proper and the LTE signal also reaches some nearby islands, which is awesome!

Marvic

Is Klook very helpful for solo traveler for each destination? or much better to find travel agency?

marj

can u give contact no of calamian boat asso? di kasi gumagana un 09204037965

Hi Marj, wala po eh. We usually just go to their office sa Lualhati Park and book on the spot.

Ella

Hi! Is there an age requirement for the tours? I have a toddler.

Di ko po sure pero parang okay lang naman. Just tell the tour operator when you book para makaprepare sila ng life vest na pambata.

Kristine

Hi. I just want to ask, do you have any contact person about the private boat rental? I’ve been looking for that source and as I check the bookings at klook, it says it’s a join in tour. Does it mean it’s a joiner tour? I cannot find who to contact about the private boat rental. O baka sa over the counter na ng Calamian na kami mag-book for private tour?

Can you give us a feedback? We’re visiting coron this June na eh.. We are preparing for an itinerary. Thank you so much.

Hi Kristine, we don’t have a contact person. We simply went to Lualhati Park, where the boats are docked and where the office of the boat association is located, and just rented a private boat there.

Robert Sanchez

Hi po… Ung Van po ba pabalik ng Busuanga Airport may terminal po ba? And may time po ba? Thanks a lot…

Pipick-upin ka sa hotel/inn mo. May contact usually ang hotel and guesthouse staff.

Mike

Hi, is the current rate for the Ultimate island tour still 1,500 and the island tour including Malcapuya Island costs 1,200? I am planning to go there alone :) Thanks po!

Marilou

Hi, were planning for family trip to Coron next year March (11 pax), what is the best time (month) do i need to book ticket to get a cheaper price. Thank you.

Wait for a sale. Usually there is a sale on the eve of a holiday like Independence Day or National Heroes’ Day.

You can also download Traveloka app and set up PRICE ALERTS so you get notifications on your phone when the fares drop.

Hello po, additional questions. Ung mga trike into the town pedeng sumakay going anywhere? and how much per head? Thanks.

If within town proper lang, P10. Pero if dun sa mga outskirts, umaabot sa P50 yung singil sa amin. Tapos pag malayo na talaga like yung hot springs, nasa P350 roundtrip.

weywey

What’s your pick between coron and el nido then?

Tough question. Hahaha.

If you want diversity of attractions, Coron.

If you want a little bit of nightlife or a strong backpacking vibe, El Nido.

wiwi

Hi! Included na ba yung environmental fee/entrance fee for each destinations dun sa payment for private boat?

Hi wiwi! No. We discussed it in the post above:

“Cons: The published rates cover only the boat fee. NOT included are the tour guide fee (P500) and ENTRANCE FEES. Food is NOT included either.”

Marites

Hi! We will be traveling to Coron this November. Buong family po kami. I have 8 year old, 12 year old, and 2 year old kids po. Di po ba bawal ang kids specially ung 2 years old ko? If okay lang ung 2 year old ko, Babayaran ko P rin ba entrance fee nyA/ nila mga kids?(if renting a private boat?)

Hi Marites, naku, di ko alam yung policy pag kids. :(

Hi! Another question po. Pede ba kaming dun na mgbook ng hotel pagdating? Madami nmn po sigurong mga murang hotels po di ba? Nov I – 5 po kami.

Tsaka pag ng rent kami ng boat my suggestion n rin Sila San pede mg rent ng mga gagamitin tulad ng goggles at lifevest?

Hi Marites, we highly recommend that you book in advance kasi November 1-5 is a long weekend and holiday pa.

Nyssa

I seem to always find myself in your blog whenever i’m doing a research hehe. thanks so much for your great write up. I’ll be going this Dec to Coron. Do you think its best to book ahead of time or straight at Lualhati Park? It seems I can use your itinerary very well for this trip (:

Hi Nyssa, if you’re chartering a private boat, kahit dumiretso ka na sa Lualhati Park. Been to Coron ng peak season a couple of times, parang di naman sila nawawalan ng private boat dun.

Maria

Hi, great article thank you! For getting back to the airport what is the usual price in town for a cab? Are there shared shuttles there too?

Hi Maria! Same price as getting in. If you’re staying at a hotel/hostel/guesthouse, the staff usually know a transfer service that can pick you up at the hotel for the same price. :)

Nouelle Anne Sanchez

Hi, would be interested to know the contact of the travel and tours company that offers private boat tour with the rates that you gave above. Whenever I check online I always see rates per head and not as a group. Thanks!

Nouelle. The private boats I mention in this post are not offered by any tour agency but by the Calamian Tourist Boat Association. They don’t have an online presence so you will have to go to the port near the end of Lualhati Park.

Please read the “IF YOU CHARTER A PRIVATE BOAT” section above for more info.

Mae

Ano maganda sa calauit safari park or Malcapuya Island Tour (aka Island Escapade Tour or Beaches Tour)?hindi ba mhal Coron

Claudia

Hi poor traveler,

I am currently staying in Coron Town. Didn’t know if I should go on the Fireflies and Plankton tour but reading your experience convinced me to do so.

Also, things arw changing really really fast. I’ve visited the hot springs and the entrance fee is P200 per person. Just wanted to let you know for the other travelers! :D

Hi Claudia! Thanks for letting us know about the entrance fee. We’ve updated it because of your tip. :D

Hope you had a great time on the plankton tour!

Petra

Thanks for the guide. We will be staying in Coron Island itself and want to use the accomodation’s kayak to paddle along it’s beaches, reefs and lagoons for a day. Since we won’t be able to buy it fresh from the market, do you know if there is any beach in Coron where you can buy some food for lunch?

Hi Petra, unfortunately, I don’t know any. :(

Cei

Will travel this coming June 2019 as a big group (9) and we plan on staying at el rio y mar resort. Do you know if at the airport we can actually hire a van for our next day tour to pick us up from our hotel to take us to the coron proper for island hopping? The hotel we are staying in have available tours but really pricey.. around 4K pax for an all day tour

Hi Cei, not sure, but I think usually pumapayag sila sa ganyan. Kung di man sila, pwede kayo mag-ask sa driver if may kilala silang pwede. :)

Donnah Mae

Hello May I ask if magpapabook pa ba kapag private boat? And yung price na ba yan per pax or as a group na po? Thank you

Yung private boat tour rates, per boat yun so as a group na.

Olivia B

Nice blog Yoshke! this article is very helpful to first time travellers like me… we are planning to visit Coron this july. Do you recommend Calamian Island travel and tours agency for all the activities? I have read good reviews as well as bad reviews regarding this agency.

Hi Olivia, I’ve only tried them with the fireflies tour and our experience was pretty good. Di ko pa sila na-try sa other tours though.

Rhey

On May 12 po ang flight namin to coron ng mga 7am nandun na po kami. Anu pong available cheap hotel na pwede sa amin na malapit sa airport kc 9am ang flight para po di na kami nagmamadali papuntang airport pauwi. we are 5 traveler po.

kim frank bueno

Hello po sir . Good day!!! snag a tix to palawan for 1,800 using my getgo points roundtrip na siya kahapon. biglaan lang po yun pagbook kaya grinab ko na.. aug 13-16, 2019 and solo trip ko po. okay lang po kaya na mag isa?? nakita ko po sa sample itinerary nyo sa 1st day canvass tours prices, book tours?? pwede magbook possible on the day of ur arrival or sa klook nalang?? yun pagbook ng tours ba sa place of accomodation?? medyo na confuse ako ..pasensiya sir.. pwede ko ba siyang gawin basis for my trip ds august??

Hi Kim, yep, you can canvass muna since hindi naman peak season, if may free time ka naman. Lakad-lakad ka sa town and compare prices. May mga resorts/hotels/hostels na may contact sila na tour operators so pwede ka rin magpatulong sa kanila, pero may iba na may patong.

Yep, okay lang naman ang Coron kahit solo. Just join group tours para mura and stay at a hostel para you meet other travelers. :)

Chuck Diaz

Hi! I will be following your itinerary, however I will be staying for 5 days and 4 nights. for the 4th Day, I decided in going to Malcapuya Island Tour (aka Island Escapde tour or beaches tour), can you recommend a 4th day itinerary with the Malcapuya Island Tour?

Below is my Itinerary at the moment: (same as yours)

Day 1: Arrival, DIY Town Tour 9:30 am – ETA Busuange Airport, Travel to Coron 10:30 am – Arrival in Coron, check in Hotel 11:10 am – Lunch 12:00 pm – Book Tours 4:00 pm – Climb to Mt. Tapyas Viewdeck 6:30 pm – Maquinit Hot Springs 8:30 pm – Dinner

Day 2: Coron Island Tour (Kayangan Lake & View & Twin lagoon should be included) 7:00 am – Coron Island Tour 6:00 pm – Fireflies & Night Tour

Day 3: Calauit Safari Park Tour (By Sea) 7:00 am – Calauit Safari Park Tour 8:00 pm – Dinner

Day5: I’ll follow you na lang po since pauwi na din po kami niyan :)

Your response will be so much appreciated po.

After Malcapuya Tour, since it would be my last night, I’d probably just chill, relax a little bit at Lualhati Park, and try the cafes at the town center or buy souvenirs. :D

Mar

hi! I was just wondering about the Calauit Safari Park Tour–since you mentioned that the other stops of the tour depends on the agency. And if I am planning to join in a group tour, would I still get the chance to visit Black Island? Or this is only accessible if choosing a private boat tour since you said that this is not usually included in the list of stops. Thank you!

May mga group tours na kasama ang Black Island, pero again, depende sya sa agency kasi nag-iiba-iba ang itinerary per agency.

Thom

Hi ! Good day! I am always reading your blogs about your travels so bit of a fan here hehe. You’re posts about Cebu helped me a lot when we got there just last May. Now I’m reading some of your blogs again regarding Palawan hehe.

Regarding the Coron tours, you mentioned “private boat”. There are 8 of us so probably mag private boat po kami. Meron po ba kayong idea regarding the entrance fees for the islands?

And am I right na mag private boat na lang kami if marami naman po kami?

Yep, private na lang kung 8 kayo.

Regarding entrance fees, you’ll find them sa captions ng mga images sa post (under Coron Tours). Nasa ilalim ng images ng stops. :)

fred

Nothing about ocam ocam beach, what is wrong with you?

April

We are planning to travel to Coron and El Nido by this coming April 2020 and I am now making plans for it as I have seen a lot in most vlogs that hotels might be booked so I am avoiding to lodge in a place that I originally didn’t want because I did not plan ahead of time.

Your guide helped a lot! I was completely at lost about planning on how to do it and no idea how to even start but this helped me out!

I have a whole lot of question for you and I hope you can help me out.

We are planning to stay for 4 days 3 nights in Coron and another 4 days and 3 nights in El Nido. Do you think this is enough time to see everything both these places has to offer? Especially Coron.

Also, we are planning to book the hotel in Coron Town (Twin Seasons) do you have any suggestions for this?

Is everything accessible from Coron Town itself? Like doing activities such as Island Hopping, town tours, etc. Speaking of which, can we DIY this? Like basically just land in Coron and pick out what we wanna do for the day based on the availability that we can find from the local tour provider. Do you suggest we DIY or is it best to avail a tour package (private tours)?

Thank you so much and I hope this isn’t too much to ask from you. :D

Thanks for your message!

1. Do you think this is enough time to see everything both these places has to offer? — Everything? Of course not. 4 days is a good length to see *some* of the best that a place has to offer, but not everything.

2. we are planning to book the hotel in Coron Town (Twin Seasons) do you have any suggestions for this? — I have never stayed there so I can’t say anything about it.

3. Yes, everything is accessible from Coron Town.

4. If by DIY you mean finding a tour operator when you’re already in Coron, yes, you can do that. There are a lot of companies that offer open group tours that you can join. If by DIY you mean going from island to island on your own, that’s extremely difficult unless you’re chartering a private boat.

Sarah Alberca

hi! Do you have any recommended agency where to get the Town Tour, Island Tour and Salauit Tour! Thank you so much! Such a big help!

Blaize

am planning to bring my group by first half of July! hope prices will be down that time.

diane

Is your estimate still consistent in 2021?

Rhea

Kamusta? May update na po ba ito based dun sa latest video ninyo po? Salamat po. Mabuhay po kayo!

Hi Rhea! Tinatapos pa lang po, hehe. :D

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Planning the ultimate palawan itinerary [1-2 week guides].

Cazzy Magennis

Palawan is one of the many islands in The Philippines and it’s bursting with beauty, and amazing things to do. I'd never seen water so blue before I visited here, and it will truly always be one of the best destinations I've visited in the entire world. Delicious food, rum, beautiful coral, friendly locals, what is not to love!

If you’re planning a trip to Palawan, then keep reading for lots of useful information on planning the perfect Palawan itinerary! 

Travellerspoint

Why Visit Palawan? 

Palawan is one of my favourite islands in The Philippines for a variety of reasons. Firstly, it’s super easy to get around , it’s surrounded by the most magical water I’ve ever swam in. It’s also got some of the best dive and snorkel spots in the world and you will constantly be AMAZED at the beauty it offers. 

If you’ve only got time to visit one area of The Philippines then I suggest Palawan as your destination. 

There are actually A LOT of islands and areas that make up “Palawan”, but I’ve only included places we actually visited on this Palawan itinerary. If you wanted to see it “all”, you’d need a lot of time. This itinerary will allow you to see the highlights! 

visit palawan

Where to include on your Palawan Itinerary 

There are a number of amazing areas and islands that make up Palawan that you should include on your Palawan itinerary. I’m going to list them below, then go into detail about planning a Palawan itinerary that fits the time you have to explore. 

This is up there with my favourite area in all of The Philippines. Coron town itself is a little run down, but it still has some amazing things to do and see, such as, hidden beaches, hot springs, waterfalls and Coron's answer to the Hollywood Sign, “The Coron Sign”. 

So it’s worth visiting for that, but when you visit Coron you simply have to visit “Coron island” and this is typically done on an island hopping tour, But you can actually stay on a houseboat in the middle of the island that brings you a unique opportunity to literally step into paradise off a boat, snorkel to the popular tourist sites (before anyone else has arrived, like the cleanest lake in Asia: Kayangan Lake) and simply be in awe at the surroundings. 

It’s one of the best things we did in The Philippines and you can read about the experience here. Coron is also famous for its diving spots and wrecks, but we aren't divers so we didn’t experience this. 

coron palawan

Things to do in Coron

  • Visit the Manquit Hot Springs 
  • Visit Bali secret beach 
  • Hike the Coron sign 
  • Take an island hopping tour 
  • Go snorkelling and/or diving 

manquit hot springs coron

El Nido is one of the most famous areas in Palawan, and The Philippines in general. It’s a backpackers hub thanks to it’s amazing island hopping tours which allow you to explore some amazing places and do some awesome things (like kayaking down one of the biggest and most beautiful lagoons). El NIdo also has fantastic waterfalls, and is home to the most beautiful beach in Asia: Nacpan beach which is truly stunning! 

Read : The Ultimate Guide To Visiting Nacpan Beach In El Nido 

el nido palawan

Things to do in El Nido

  • Visit Nacpan Beach 
  • Drink at the beach bars 
  • Chase waterfalls 

nacpan beach palawan

Port Barton 

This is one of the most up and coming places in Palawan, it literally only got 24 hour electricity the year we arrived (2019!), but you can tell it’s going to be super popular in the coming years. Again it showcases some amazing island hopping tours and the chance to swim with giant turtles (which is fantastic), but there are also some of the most stunning sunsets I’ve ever witnessed on offer, amazing waterfalls to discover and they even hold a full moon party! 

port barton

Things to do in Port Barton

  • Swim with turtles
  • Enjoy the epic sunsets 
  • Have a massage on the beach 
  • Explore “white beach”

port barton beach

Puerto Princesa 

This is often one of the final stops on a Palawan itinerary and it was actually Brad and I’s least favourite place out of all the areas in Palawan we visited. BUT, we didn’t do some of the most popular things to do there, such as, the famous underground river tours, and the island hopping opportunities.

We did head off on our moped and discover some pretty cool beaches, but they weren’t as beautiful as the ones in El Nido or Port Barton, but they did have epic views! 

Either way, I still think it’s worth visiting and you should definitely do the things we didn’t.

Things to do in Puerto Princesa 

  • Take an underground river tour 
  • Find hidden beaches 
  • Dip in hot springs 
  • Visit the boardwalk for dinner 

Now that we’ve established the core destinations on this Palawan itinerary, it’s time to put it into numbers! 

All my Palawan itineraries start in Coron and end in Puerto Princesa. The reason for this is that it’s easy to get to Coron via an overnight boat from Manila, or a short flight from Manila, and Puerto Princesea is home to an airport that will take you to where you need to go next. 

2 week Palawan Itinerary

If you’ve got two weeks in Palawan then you’ve got time to see it all and see it well. This is my suggested itinerary below. 

  • Coron mainland: 2 nights 
  • Coron island ( houseboat ): 2 nights  ‍
  • El Nido: 5 nights ‍
  • Port Barton: 3 nights  
  • Puerto Princesa: 2 nights 

This 2 week Palawan itinerary will allow you to see all the sights on mainland Coron, and experience the beauty of Coron island and all the related sights. It will also allow you to do all 4 island hopping tours in El Nido, as well as a full day to see all the sights on El Nido itself too. If you only wanted 3 island hopping tours, you could easily spend 2 days sightseeing El Nido itself too. 

kayagan lake coron

10 Day Palawan Itinerary

We actually spent around 10 days on Palawan, so this Palawan itinerary is pretty close to what we did! 

  • Coron mainland: 1 night  ‍
  • Coron Island ( houseboat ): 2 nights  ‍
  • El Nido: 3 nights  ‍
  • Port Barton: 2 nights  ‍

This is pretty much what we did, but I think we had about 12 days, so we may have had an extra night on Coron mainland! 

This 10 day Palawan Itinerary will allow you to see all the main of Coron, some of the El Nido tours and the beauty of Port Barton and Puerto Princesea. What I will suggest is, if you are short on time in El Nido and only want to do one or two tours, the tour A should definitely make it on your El Nido itinerary!  

nacpan beach el nido

1 week Palawan Itinerary

One week in Palawan is going to be short and sweet and you’ll need to move quickly. So opt for fast boats, or flights when possible. 

  • Coron mainland: 1 night ‍
  • Coron Island ( house boat ): 1 night  ‍
  • El Nido: 2 nights  ‍
  • Port Barton: 2 nights ‍
  • Puerto Princesa: 1 night  

If you decided you just wanted to focus on El Nido and Coron, then you could skip out the rest as both those areas have airports you can fly to and from. However, Port Barton is a gem! 

The beauty of all these Palawan itineraries listed above is that they can be reversed! You can start in Puerto Princesa and end in Coron...it won’t make too much of a difference to your plans. 

10 day palawan itinerary

Getting Around Palawan

Getting around Palawan is super easy and I’m going to make it super easy for you too. You’ve got a few options: 

  • Flying: You can fly at different stages of your Palawan adventure. You can fly between Coron and El Nido, but I don’t think it’s worth it….but you can check Skyscanner for prices!
  • Ferry : Boats are your new best friend with planning a Palawan trip. You can get ferries from Coron to El Nido which you can book right here! 
  • Shuttles: Once you’re on the mainland of Palawan, you can get shuttles to and from various places. For example you can get a shuttle from El Nido to Port Barton, Port Barton to Puerto Princesea. 
  • Moped : When you’re in Coron mainland, El Nido and Port Barton, you can rent out mopeds for around 500 pesos per day to get yourself from A to B. This is great if you like planning your own itineraries! 

Book your shuttle from El Nido to Port Barton here. 

Book your shuttle from Port Barton to Puerto Princesa here. 

Book your shuttle from El Nido to Puerto Princesa here. 

paolyn houseboat

Budget for Palawan 

You’ll be pleased to hear that The Philippines in general are fairly cheap as is Palawan. Accommodation is not as cheap as other areas in Asia, but it’s still cheap, however accommodation in The Philippines isn't as nice as some places we visited, but it does the job! 

Check out my Backpacking The Philippines Travel Guide for more information on budgets!

Food is cheap too, and rum is excellent and cheap! Shuttles between areas and boats are also reasonable, so to enjoy a comfortable experience in Palawan I would suggest a budget of around $35 a day. You could do it cheaper, and more expensive if you’re doing more tours…

Speaking of tours…

It’s actually cheaper to book your island hopping tours in El Nido and Coron online...I don’t know why! 

But I’ve listed them below anyway..

  • El Nido Tour A
  • El Nido Tour B
  • El Nido Tour C
  • El Nido Tour D
  • Coron Tour A 
  • Coron Tour B
  • Coron Tour C 
  • Coron Ultimate Tour 

Island hopping in Port Barton: Book here

island hopping in coron

Where to stay in Palawan 

We’ve actually produced a range of guides which will help you choose your hotels and hostels in Palawan, but in general we tend to use booking.com to book all our hotels. You can check out our individual guides below for some more planning inspiration…

  • ‍ Where to stay in El Nido  ‍
  • Where to stay in Coron

So there you go, my guide to planning the ultimate Palawan itinerary. I hope this guide has proved useful and hopefully helps make planning your Philippines adventures a little easier. But you’re going to LOVE Palawan, and once you leave, you’ll already be planning your return!

Read more: 

  • 4 week itinerary for The Philippines
  • Best Places to Visit in The Philippines
  • 50 awesome things to do in The Philippines

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Palawan Itinerary: Plan Your Perfect Philippines Getaway

Palawan Itinerary: Plan Your Perfect Philippines Getaway

Palawan is amazing.

If you’re planning a vacation to the Philippines, the island of Palawan can definitely be recommended for a week, two weeks, a month… Or even more, if you have the time.

Especially if you’re into drop-dead gorgeous beaches and crystal clear water .

And did we mention the waterfalls, deep jungle and deserted islands?

We spent almost a month on the island and we did our best to hang out on Palawan’s many soft sand beaches. We loved it.

One can totally forget about returning to civilization on one of the countless bounty islands in the ocean surrounding Palawan.

And if you dive under the surface a whole other world comes to life in all the colours of the rainbow.

Palawan is packed with exotic adventures .

Table of contents

Map of Palawan

When to visit palawan, port barton, cacnipa island, calitang beach and nacpan beach, port barton, revisited, palawan itinerary ideas, international flights, domestic flights, how to get around the island, 5 tips for your palawan trip, our budget and typical prices on palawan.

Islands surrounding Palawan

Why visit Palawan?

Palawan is the name of the largest province in the Philippines. It’s consisting of nearly 1,800 islands in the  western part of the Philippines .

Palawan is also the name of the  province’s largest island  which is the island we are talking about here.

The island is approximately 425 kilometres long and up to 40 kilometres wide making Palawan the Philippines’ fifth largest island. The southern tip almost touches Borneo.

Palawan is often called  The Last Ecological Frontier , as the biodiversity in this part of the Philippines is (still) particularly unique and well-preserved.

The marine life around Palawan is extraordinary, and it’s also here you’ll find the Philippines’ sole remaining primary rainforest.

Translated into tourist language, this simply means that Palawan is  extremely lush  and  tropical .

Although the island’s main attraction, El Nido, attracts tourists from near and far, the island is still relatively  non-touristy  when compared to well-known Boracay or similar Thai islands.

This is obvious from the not-particularly-developed infrastructure and limited hotel offers (especially outside of El Nido) – but also from the affordable prices.

Palm trees, sunset

The largest and most developed city in Palawan is Puerto Princesa. Most tourists only visit Palawan north of this city.

If you want to venture south, check the current safety situation first.

We visited Palawan in November and December in 2017 and experienced days of non-stop sunshine, cloudy days and rainy days – with rain showers lasting from minutes to several hours.

The weather changed almost daily. It was however  hot (and humid!)  all of the time.

The rainy season  normally begins in June and lasts until mid-November, but it continues to rain on the east side until March.

Around March the island gets drier – but also warmer and less green.

We recommend visiting Palawan during the drier months – for example  February ,  March  and  April .

December and January are also fine, but rain can still be expected.

The prices increase on accommodation over Christmas and New Year’s.

Boat docked near island

Our 26 days itinerary

Like many travellers, we flew from Manila to Palawan’s largest city  Puerto Princesa .

We went directly from the airport to  Port Barton  to enjoy the island’s beautiful beaches as soon as possible.

We had already booked 4 nights of accommodation in Port Barton.

From then on we hadn’t planned anything specific, so we figured out the rest of the route based on how much we liked staying in a spot and what kind of recommendations we picked up underway.

Our Palawan itinerary:

  • 6 nights in Port Barton
  • 2 nights on Cacnipa Island
  • 3 nights in Long Beach
  • 4 nights in El Nido
  • 6 nights in Calitang Beach and Nacpan Beach
  • 4 nights in Port Barton again

The  fishing village  of Port Barton was the first place we visited on Palawan.

Wi-fi and electric power cannot be expected 24/7, but the  food options  were surprisingly good and plentiful.

The whole place had a relaxed vibe which we really enjoyed.

Port Barton’s beach was nice.  Even better beaches  can be found on the many small islands dotting the horizon. They can be visited on boat tours offering incredible value for money.

Lots of other  day trips  can be made from Port Barton – like visiting White Beach or some of the waterfalls in the area.

After having visited several parts of Palawan, Port Barton ended up being our  favourite place on the island .

When we first arrived we stayed for six nights and at the end of our trip, we opted for four additional nights in this relaxing town.

Sun rising behind the serene town of Port Barton

From Port Barton, we visited the nearby Cacnipa Island to stay on  Coconut Garden Island Resort .

This is a fantastic place to unwind and relax with no people, roads or noise.

The  private beach  is lovely and the only restaurant on the island was well-stocked and fairly priced.

We slept peacefully to the sound of the ocean in one of their charming huts. There was limited electricity, which actually helped us kick into a lower gear and  enjoy the natural beauty  even more.

We can easily recommend staying at Coconut Garden Island Resort on Cacnipa Island to  families  wanting some quality beach time and quietness or couples looking for a romantic getaway.

The private beach of Coconut Garden Island Resort on Cacnipa Island

Google “Long Beach, Palawan” and you’ll read that the beach is an astonishing  14 kilometres long .

This is not the whole truth as it’s actually the combined name of several beaches situated very close together. But each of them is super long anyway, so space probably won’t be a problem.

We stayed in the northernmost part called  Alimanguan Beach  at  Victoria Beach House . The beach was wide, very pretty and tranquil with just a handful of people on it anytime.

It was possible to watch the sunset from our small terrace and we really enjoyed going for long walks in the soft sand.

Except for the hotel and the beach, there wasn’t much else to see or do in the area. It was much more of a  small local community  than a developed place for tourism, which was nice.

It probably won’t be many years before Long Beach becomes significantly more developed.

There was talk about an airport being under construction, and soon hotels will probably dot the beach.

Visiting Long Beach was a  unique experience , but as the hotel only served a small handful of different dishes every day, we felt a bit limited by the lack of food options.

Long Beach drone perspective

San Vicente  is the largest town close to Long Beach. Here you’ll find a few hotels and restaurants.

It might seem like there’s a road between Port Barton and San Vicente on some maps. Unfortunately, there’s isn’t. At least not one a van will take you.

It’s about two hours of driving to go from Port Barton to San Vicente and then an additional 30 minutes to go all the way to Victoria Beach House.

The hotel arranged our transport onwards to El Nido, which took approximately 4.5 hours.

Victoria on Long Beach

El Nido, and the fantastic part of the ocean surrounding it is the main reason people travel to Palawan. And for good reason.

We really enjoyed our boat trip to the spectacular rock formations, clear waters and deserted beaches of the  Bacuit Archipelago .

If you’re into  diving , going for a swim below the surface is supposedly breathtaking.

However, our feelings were mixed when it comes to the actual town of El Nido.

There was a  huge selection of food , especially compared to Long Beach. But we had to share the main drag with lots of other tourists, tour operators and tricycle drivers.

The delicious  falafel wraps  and  veggie burgers  were totally worth it, though.

Even though El Nido was quite chaotic and  uncharming , we still enjoyed a couple of days on the beach, which was absolutely quiet during the day.

El Nido was also the only place on Palawan where our internet connection was somewhat stable.

palawan trip expenses

Nacpan Beach is situated 20 kilometres north of El Nido and it’s often visited as a  day trip  from the city.

If you don’t have much time that’s easily recommendable, but we decided to stay there for almost a week instead.

On Nacpan Beach you can easily get a huge area of  white, soft sand all to yourself .

The palm trees sway romantically in the background while the water calmly reflects the sun in shades of deep azure and light turquoise.

At the southern end of Nacpan, the beach joins  Calitang Beach  to form  Twin Beach .

One should, however, go to the opposite end of Calitang Beach to find a nice piece of sand to lie on. At the Nacpan-end it’s rocky and dirty – which is primarily due to the direction of the wind bringing in rubbish from the sea.

We stayed at  Dandal Bay View Resort , located on the clean part of Calitang Beach.

From here we could watch  amazing sunsets  every night from the restaurant’s porch, and during the day we could either use our own beach or walk the 200 metres to Nacpan Beach through a small village or along Calitang Beach.

On Nacpan Beach there are several small places offering bungalows with  sea views  ranging between 1,000 and 2,000 Philippine pesos (~ 18.5-37 USD) – from no power outlets and a shared bathroom to limited electricity with A/C and a private bathroom.

Although a little rustic, the huts are generally in robust condition.

If you don’t mind just having a couple of hours electricity a day and sleeping under a mosquito net, it’s possible to stay directly on one of  Palawan’s most astonishing beaches .

The popular hostel  Mad Monkey  on Nacpan Beach serves (in our opinion mediocre) pizzas, great burgers, sinful french fries and crepes with Nutella. In the evenings there’s  beer pong  and festive music.

However, we preferred 24 hours of electricity and air conditioning for 1,400 Philippine pesos per night (~ 26 USD) for a small room at  Dandal Bay View Resort , which we found on Airbnb.

Calitang Beach and Nacpan Beach

After having spent some quality time under the sun on Calitang and Nacpan for six days, we returned to Port Barton for our last days on Palawan.

Waterfall on Palawan

You don’t want to miss  El Nido  on Palawan.

The islands surrounding the shabby city is wildly picturesque, and no matter how many people come to visit, the fact still stands that this is one of the  most beautiful places in the world .

So planning your Palawan trip around a boat tour (or several!) in the Bacuit Archipelago makes a lot of sense.

You don’t actually have to stay  in  El Nido to go on a boat tour, but staying for at least a single night makes sense if you want to leave early in the morning. Most people will probably find it more relaxing to stay for two or three nights.

If you find a great place in El Nido, you can also stay for a week and just go on day trips from there – like to Nacpan.

Our recommendation if you  only have a week on Palawan , though, would rather be to also spend a couple of days in Port Barton or directly on Nacpan Beach.

This itinerary can easily be extended to  two weeks , which could look like this:

  • 3 nights in Port Barton to relax and get a sense of the Philippines and the local life.
  • 2 nights on Cacnipa Island to really chill out.
  • 3 nights in El Nido for the boat tours and international food.
  • 5 nights on Nacpan Beach to enjoy the silence and sublime beach.
  • 1 night in Puerto Princesa to see the famed underground river (we didn’t) and staying close to the airport.

If you have additional time to spend on Palawan, you can also opt for a stay on  Long Beach  like we did. Two or three nights should do it.

We got some friends on Palawan who really enjoyed  Duli Beach  20-25 kilometres north of El Nido.

Close to Puerto Princesa,  Sabang Beach  and the boat tours of  Honda Bay  also looked nice.

Instead of flying to and from Puerto Princesa, it’s possible to sail to the nearby island of  Coron , north of Palawan. If we visit Palawan again the future, this is definitely something we would be interested in doing.

Palawan beach

How to get to Palawan

There is a very limited amount of international flights to Palawan’s main airport in Puerto Princesa.

Therefore, most people arrive from either Cebu or Manila.

If you want to go to Palawan, your best option is to take yourself to one of these airports first. Both Cebu and Manila are  well-connected internationally .

Domestic flights  in the Philippines are quite cheap.

Palawan is about 1 hour of flying away from Manila as well as from Cebu.

During our time in the Philippines, we travelled with both Cebu Pacific and Philippines AirAsia.

It’s also possible to  fly directly to El Nido  from Clark (near Manila) or from Puerto Princesa with AirSWIFT. This is with a smaller, more expensive plane that leaves a few times a week.

Another option to get to Palawan is by boat or ferry.

Some people  choose to set sails  between Palawan and Coron to spend time in some of the most beautiful waters in the world – although the most popular option seemed to be to go from Palawan  to  Coron.

Some tours include stops on some of the small islands on the way. How cool is that?

Ferries  also leave from Manila to Puerto Princesa offering an 18 to 22-hour ride.

Once you’re in Palawan, getting around is  easy  (although time-consuming).

Vans leave several times daily  from most towns, willing to pick you up and take you to where you want to go – or at least to another van connecting you to your destination.

A  single road going from the south of the island to the north  is the road you’ll primarily use to get around. This is the direct road between Puerto Princesa and El Nido.

If you want to visit Long Beach, Nacpan Beach or other less visited places on Palawan, some vans still go there. But it might be an easier option to hire a private driver or tricycle.

It’s always possible to get assistance from your hotel or host to arrange transport to your next destination.

We were surprised how integrated this van network seemed to be in the whole tourist economy and never had any problems getting around. The vans usually left on time (which often isn’t the case in other Asian countries).

Another option is to use the  colourfully painted local buses called Jeepneys . These are much slower and in our experience not that much cheaper, but shop around and see for yourself. Driving in one will definitely give you a unique sense of the country and its wonderful people.

The main road on Palawan is paved , but you don’t have to venture far from it – like to Port Barton or Nacpan Beach – to get into  muddy territory .

We got stuck more than once. Plan defensively, try not to be in a hurry and you’ll be fine.

Palawan transport

  • Bring cash . There is only a handful of ATMs on the entire island, and you can’t expect them to work. So bring enough cash for your whole stay… And then some to be able to extend your vacation if you end up loving Palawan just as much as we did!
  • The power will go out . Several times a day, probably. Don’t panic, it will soon be back on.
  • Wi-fi  is neither stable nor fast on Palawan. Puerto Princesa and El Nido are probably your best bets at a good connection. Buying a local SIM-card with 3G can help, but if you work online, expect to get frustrated.
  • Be patient . Getting around Palawan takes time. A “2-3 hour” trip in a van or bus can easily take 4 or 5 hours, and not all vans leave on the minute. Try not to plan too rigidly and you’ll avoid stressing out.
  • Mosquitos like Palawan . Bring bug spray and look into the current situations regarding Dengue and Malaria.

Boats in Palawan

Most of the places we stayed at in Palawan cost us around 1,500 Philippine pesos (~ 28 USD) for a  double room with a private bathroom and A/C .

Go for a fan-only room to save money.

Main dishes  in restaurants ranged between 100 and 300 Philippine pesos (~ 1.8-5.5 USD).

1 litre of  water  was around 40 Philippine pesos (~ 0.7 USD) in a small shop and 6 litres were about 100-120 Philippine pesos (~ 1.85-3.7 USD).

Transport  was also quite cheap. The van from Puerto Princesa to El Nido was 600 Philippine pesos per person (~ 11 USD) and 400 Philippine pesos from Puerto Princesa to Port Barton (~ 7.4 USD).

Our total budget ended up being  1,860 USD for 26 days of travel in Palawan  including accommodation, three meals a day for two people, massage, water, transportation and three private boat tours (two in Port Barton and one in El Nido). It doesn’t include plane tickets to and from the island.

Note: The budget and prices are from December 2017.

Fresh juices and shakes

Thank you for reading

Palawan was an absolute stunner, just like the rest of the Philippines.

We met kind people wherever we went, and the supply of wonderful beaches with turquoise waters seemed to be endless.

We hope this Palawan itinerary and guide has been useful. Have you been to Palawan, or do you dream about going?

If you’ve been, it would be awesome to hear your best tips in the comments. If you haven’t been yet, please don’t hesitate to ask us anything. We’re glad to help.

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2 thoughts on “ Palawan Itinerary: Plan Your Perfect Philippines Getaway ”

Although I absolutely love Palawan, I’m thinking of going north of Manila this year. I hear Batanes is such a lovely place as well. I can’t wait to visit that place

We haven’t been there but it sounds great!

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Guide to Balabac, Palawan

Ultimate Travel Guide to Balabac, Palawan: The Last Paradise

Here’s your ultimate travel guide to Balabac, Palawan! Including a sample 5 days itinerary you can follow for your trip.

Last 2015, Hali and I were exchanging stories with a 60-year-old fellow traveler who then told us about Balabac. For the uninitiated, Balabac group of islands is a relatively unknown summer haven for backpackers seeking unspoilt beaches and preserved local culture. In my opinion, it has the best beaches you can find in the Philippines .

Balabac is located at the southernmost tip of Palawan in the Philippines and is just a few hours away from Sabbah, Malaysia.

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Along with five other friends, Hali and I ventured here on the first week of March 2016 for our first summer escapade (and also Hali’s birthday celebration — he said age isn’t important). It was a bit challenging to arrange a DIY vacation to Balabac. At the time of our trip, there was very little material in the internet especially with regards to island hopping prices and contact details.

Hali in Punta Sebaring, Balabac, Palawan

So much has changed since our last visit. We’ve updated this post with the latest information , including info on packaged tours to Balabac so you’ll have a hassle-free travel. Enjoy!

P.S. Traveling to Balabac, soon? I also recommend reading our Guide to Island Hopping in Balabac, Palawan .

Option 1: Via Rio Tuba

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The closest airport to Balabac is Puerto Princesa Airport. From there, you need to travel to either Rio Tuba port or Buliluyan port and then ride a boat to Balabac. It will take you at least a day to get to Balabac.

In Puerto Princesa, ride a trike or jeep to San Jose Terminal. Tricycle fare from the airport is P120. If you walk outside the airport to the main road, tricycle fare is P70-100 per ride and jeepney fare is P12-15 per person.

From San Jose Terminal, ride either a bus or van going to Rio Tuba. Travel time is 4-5 hours. Commuting via van is faster since there are lesser stopovers, although you will still need to wait for other passengers to fill up all the seats. Fare for the van is P300 per person.

Van Schedules:

  • Puerto Princesa to Rio Tuba: 4AM to 5PM
  • Rio Tuba to Puerto Princesa: 4AM to 3PM

Bus Schedules:

  • Puerto Prinesa to Rio Tuba: Up to 7PM

Regardless of which transport you choose, it’s safe to be at the terminal at around 5-6PM to make sure you won’t miss a ride to Rio Tuba.

From Rio Tuba, ride a passenger boat to Balabac.

Travel time is 4 hours, boat fare is P370. Normally, there is only one schedule for the boat via Rio Tuba-Balabac route, which is anywhere from 9AM to 12 noon. The boat leaves immediately once all seats are taken. A boatman told us they make a second trip depending on the number of passengers, but I get the impression that this rarely happens.

If you arrive at night in Rio Tuba, you can sleepover at the nearby White Heaven Lodging which is just near the port. From there, take a tricycle to the port (P20 per person).

The passenger boat makes a few stops. You’re about an hour away from mainland Balabac after you pass by Bancalan Port.

Bancalan Port in Palawan

Similarly, there is also one schedule for the boat from Balabac to Rio Tuba: at 6AM in the morning. The boat is either docked in the unloading pier or VCI, depending on the sea level.

Depending on your itinerary, you can also opt to travel from Puerto Princesa to Buliluyan Port instead of Rio Tuba. There are no passenger boats in Buliluyan Port. Instead, your boat operator for island hopping will have to fetch you from here to Balabac. This port is closer to some islands in Balabac, including Patunggong Island and Tangkahan Island. If you want to go straight to island hopping, this is a better choice.

Same as above: In Puerto Princesa, ride a trike or jeep to San Jose Terminal.

Then ride a van to Buliluyan Port. Fare is P600 per person. Travel time is 5 hours.

Summer is the best time to visit Balabac . As per Anj of Kilometer Zero PH, ber-months are still okay but during the amihan season (from December to February) the waves can get particularly rough.

There are different islands you can visit in Balabac. These are:

  • Bancalaan Island
  • Camiaran Island (Pink Sand Beach)
  • Onuk Island (also called Onok Island)
  • Candaraman Island (Starfish Sandbar)
  • Sicsican Island
  • Ramos Island
  • Canabungan Island
  • Nasubata Island
  • Punta Sebaring
  • Patunggong Island
  • Patawan Island
  • Mansalangan sandbar
  • Matangule sandbar
  • Bobby’s Island
  • Secam Island
  • Cabcabun Island
  • Tangkahan Island
  • Timbayan Island (rock formation)
  • Balabac Island – Melville Lighthouse

In my opinion, the best islands to visit are : Camiaran Island, Onuk Island/Onok Island, Patawan Island, Candaraman Island, Mansalangan sandbar, Punta Sebaring and Tangkahan Island.

To know more about the islands in Balabac, read our Guide to Island Hopping in Balabac, Palawan . We also have a separate feature on Onuk Island .

Camiaran Island's pink beach

Take note that the islands in Balabac are mostly privately owned, so public access may change.

As of 2019 , visiting Melville Lighthouse in no longer allowed. Candaraman Island is also closed but it is still possible to visit the sandbar.

Here’s a sample 5 days itinerary to Balabac, Palawan. You can use it as a rough guide when you visit Balabac.

Coordinate with your boatmen since they know which are the best hours to visit the islands. For instance, places such as Punta Sebaring, Onuk Island/Onok Island and the sandbars need to be visited during low tide, which changes per season.

Due to the long commute time, it’s recommended to stay 5-7 days in Balabac, Palawan.

Where to book your tours in Balabac

You can book your island hopping tour directly with the local boat operators in Balabac. There are also travel agencies offering full packaged tours to Balabac, which is convenient especially if you’re a solo or couple joiner.

Also included are the current island hopping rates ( Updated as of 2022 ).

Kuya Boboy and Kuya Onyok were our guides and we highly recommend them. If you decide to hire them via this blog, please tell them that we (Katherine and Hali) say Hi! Ate Lorna is a relative of them and she also arranges tours to Balabac.

Here is their contact:

  • Kuya Onyok : 09123993543 / Kuya Boboy : 09309822412 | Facebook
  • Ate Lorna : 09066909547 / 09465576503

Their rates are 4-6 people: P1500 per head/day, 7-10 people: P1200 per head/day.

These prices include the island hopping tour and meals. Accommodation can be booked in the mainland or islands separately.

For complete packaged tours, I recommend Gala PH by JV Francisco. I went with them on my second visit in Balabac . I had a blast, the food was overwhelming and overall I highly recommend their services.

Gala PH arranges joiner tours to Balabac, including transfer from PPS to Balabac and vice versa, island hopping, accommodation and meals.

Here is their contact: Gala PH – Facebook

Their rate is P9500 per person for a 3-day tour, including transfer from Puerto Princesa and vice versa, island hopping tour, meals, and accommodation (tent only).

Where to stay

Staying overnight in Puerto Princesa? You can check out discounted inns/hotels in PPS here .

Here are the main accommodations you can book for your trip to Balabac, Palawan.

  • White Heaven Lodging . Rates: Room for 2 pax – P250
  • Dewelyn Lodging House . Contact: 0999034854
  • Pring Pension House . Rates: Fan room with common CR – P300 / AC room w/o breakfast – P700 or with breakfast – P900. Contact: 09265844805

White Heaven Lodging is near the port of Rio Tuba so it’s the recommended to stay here.

Here are the places you can stay at in mainland Balabac.

  • JD lodging (Sing and Swing lodge) . Rates: Fan room with common CR for 2 pax – P500 / AC room for 2 pax – P1000. Contact: 09106620073
  • MLK lodging . Rates: Room for 2 pax – P500. Contact: 09395176169
  • Mely Bechayda Pension House . Rates: Fan room with common CR – P500 / Shared big room with own CR – P250 per person. Contact: 09264049171
  • Biga-Biga Beach Resort . (No info)

We stayed at JD lodging for the duration of our trip. The rooms are surprisingly spacious. The restrooms and shower stalls are for common sharing but clean and regularly maintained. The electricity in the whole Balabac group of islands is up until midnight only, but you can request for the generator to be turned on during the night in JD Lodging for P300 per night (all rooms covered).

There are also islands where you can find resorts/camping grounds. Some of these are:

  • Candaraman Island
  • Canibungan Island
  • Matangule Island
  • Punta Sebaring (Bugsuk Island)
  • Onuk Island/Onok Island

If you’re availing of a packaged tour, accommodation is already taken cared of.

Here are the things you should know about before you go:

  • Bring all the cash that you need; there is no ATM or bank in Balabac. The nearest one is located in Rio Tuba.
  • Be prepared to go on rough backpacking, i.e., camping on islands. You can also stay in mainland Balabac, but going to/from here when you island hop might be time consuming, which is why the usual itinerary includes staying overnight in islands.
  • Mobile signal is non-existent or weak in most places in Balabac.

Sitio Marabun in Balabac, Palawan

  • You can buy Malaysian goods such as mi goreng noodles as pasalubong in mainland Balabac or Sitio Marabun, a local community on stilts which you’ll pass by going back to Buliluyan Port.
  • Insect repellent
  • For camping: Tent/hammock, flashlight and powerbank
  • Snorkel set/fins

There are islands in Balabac that are home to sand flies (or niknik), such as Punta Sebaring. Make sure to bring insect repellent and balm for insect bites.

There’s a lot of snorkeling/freediving sites in Balabac. However, there are no rental stores in this area so you should bring your own equipment.

Here are other contact details you may need:

  • Kuya Jerry, shuttle service Puerto Princesa City – Rio Tuba : 0927 705 5910/0946 260 6260

Update as of January 2018:  Ate Bebeth is no longer part of the tourism office, and I’ve removed her contact detail above.

Budget depends on the package you choose. For 5-6 days stay good for 4 people, a safe budget would be P9000-10,000 per person.

Additional: FAQ Section

Camiaran Island in Balabac, Palawan

I’ve added this section as an update. Ever since posting this Balabac Palawan itinerary and other features, we’ve been drowning in inquiries, and though the attention is flattering, sadly I can’t keep up with all the messages.

When we visited in 2016, we found out thru inquiries in our blog that there are security issues in Balabac. However, it is our personal experience that Balabac is safe for foreign and local tourists.

As of 2019 , tourism in Balabac is expanding and there are currently no security concerns about visiting here.

There are other places you can visit in Palawan. The unique thing about Balabac is it’s the most remote and possibly the least commercialized as of yet.

Puerto Princesa  offers its own island hopping and scuba diving adventures, not to mention the world-renown Puerto Princesa Underground River .  El Nido and Coron  are world-known vacation spots, famous for limestone karsts and clean lagoons. There are also low-key destinations in Palawan that offer a quiet time off, such as Port Barton .

If you’re looking for off-beaten beaches, we recommend:

  • Calayan Island in Babuyan Islands, Cagayan
  • Palaui Island in Cagayan

If you want to get an idea of other great attractions, here’s a list of the best places to visit in the Philippines .

Thank you to everyone who helped me in creating this guide! If you have updated information, please let us know thru comments/email so we can update this post as well.

Don’t forget to watch our summer experience in Balabac, Palawan, in this video:

Has this Balabac Palawan itinerary and travel guide been helpful to you ? Feel free to like and share. Oh and post your comments below! 🙂

Visiting Palawan? Check out the rest of our guides in Palawan:

  • Ultimate Guide to Palawan
  • Top Things to Do in Palawan
  • Best Beaches in Palawan

Puerto Princesa :

  • Guide to Puerto Princesa Underground River
  • Island Hopping in Honda Bay
  • Best Resorts and Hotels in Puerto Princesa
  • Travel Guide to Coron
  • Best Resorts in Coron Palawan
  • Travel Guide to El Nido
  • Best Resorts in El Nido Palawan
  • Travel Guide to Balabac
  • Island Hopping in Balabac
  • Onuk Island

Port Barton :

  • Travel Guide to Port Barton + 3 Days Itinerary
  • Top Things to Do in Port Barton
  • Island Hopping in Port Barton

If you liked this post, feel free to share it in Pinterest!

Travel guide to Balabac islands in Palawan, Philippines

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Katherine author profile

Katherine Cortes is a long-time backpacker and a freelance writer/editor. She likes beaches, snorkeling trips, and relaxing staycations (preferably with bath tubs!).

Balabac island hopping - Candaraman Island

129 Comments

Irena filipovic dimitrijevic.

Anybody wants to go with us and share expenses, in 3 days to Balabac? So, the dates are Februaru 20th- night in Rio Tuba, and after that 3 nights on Balabac. Johannes and Irena

its my futured island…Balabac is a unique in the whole world…lets safe Palawan forever.. 🙂

Hello, do you have a scheduled boat trip from Buliluyan Port to Balabac? Or we have to rent a private boat for that? would you know hm?

Katherine Cortes

Hello. There are no passenger ferries from Buliluyan Port. You have to rent a private boat. Usually it’s included in island hopping rates, as today most tourists go this route.

Maybe we can go together. my desired schedule is Jan 31 to Feb 2, 2020. My number is 09289106175

Ron Orlovsky

Hi there! Katherine! This is soooooo helpful! A friend and I are looking to travel Balabac during Christmas break. Anytime between 24th-29th of December, 2019. We are looking for joiner to share the “burden” 🙂 Feel free to email: [email protected] .

Sushil Kumar

hi we are 2 adults and a child 13 yrs planning for balabac from the 16 th of jan to 20th of jan 2020 any body who wishes to join can please mail me on [email protected] thank you

Hello, I will fly to Puerto Princesa on January 26 and will stay in Palawan till mid of February (single traveller). Do you think, it is possible, to organize joining a Balabac-Island-hopping-tour just after arrival in Puerto Princesa on January 27 or 28? Since I don’t want to rush, I would reserve up to 7 days for such a tour if it is necessary. But I am a foreigner (Europe). From the videos on Youtube it seems, that there have been some foreigners doing such tours in 2019. Is it possible, to join a tour being the only foreigner? Or is a foreigner still a risk for the whole group, like Bryan mentioned in his comment from February 2018?

Hi Carl, you’ll probably be fine. Also Balabac is more open to visitors now compared to the past years since word about it is slowly getting out.

Not sure how you’re going to organize a tour after arrival unless you already have/will meet other companions there. Why don’t you post in FB groups to see who’d also like to go or you can contact Ate Lorna to ask if she has scheduled guests on those dates. You can also go solo but it’s more expensive.

We will be in palawan on january 29 to feb 4. Can we join? 2 persons

Hello everyone, I will travel in balabac on February 2-7, 2020, two of us, expecting others to join.my email [email protected]

hi guys. my friend and i will be in balabac from nov 18 to 20. if theres anyone who we can join with the tours kindly send me an email please, [email protected] . mys sister in laws brother lives in rio tube and owns a boat so maybe we can get a discount for the trips. tia.

Jared dela Cruz

Your post and your pictures are truly inspiring, thank you so much. I have never heard of Balabac until recently. But from then on, I’ve been dreaming of going there, the last paradise in the Philippines’ last frontier.

Blog is very nice and details. Ilm planning in May 2019. Can i get WhatsApp no. Of some tour operator?

Hi! Better contact their mobile numbers directly because whatsapp isn’t used much here in the ph.

Seemed like an awesome experience you had. Was this a DIY trip that you planned yourselves or did you purchase a full package with a tour company beforehand? Very helpful post.

Hi Nicole. As said in the blog post, we did it DIY. Nowadays there are tours in Balabac which we’d recommend you do instead. 🙂

Hi! Pwede pong pakiconfirm if that is still the number of kuya onyok? I texted the number and inquired about rates. He asked for a downpayment and gave a different name (might be his real name?) But since malaki ung downlayment na hinihingi niya, medyo worried lang ako.

Hi Ren, sorry for the late reply. The number was still working a few months back, but we got the updated numbers here: Kuya Onyok – 09123993543, Kuya Boboy – 09073892313. 🙂 We also updated the guide.

Sarah L. Grageda

Hi Katherine! In Balabac or Rio Tuba, is there any available motorcycle that is for rent? If there is, I’d like to know the average price of the rent per day. Thanks!

I’m not sure. If you find one I’m guessing it’ll be around P400-500 per day? That’s how much motorcycle rental costs in other places in Palawan.

Hi! Anybody here who has contacts for mainland Balabac tours? Thank you in advance!

We live in Palawan (in Brooke’s Pt.) but when I told him I want to visit Balabac, he said no:( Want to visit the island badly :((

Bout dun sa 1,2 and 3days package tour in onok island?

May i know what is included on that packages?

Krista Matias

Palawan is really such a beautiful island, and I am planning to go there this year. I am glad I have read this blog, I am really looking forward to trying out these exciting activities in there. Thank you for sharing the beauty of Palawan.

Mhat Hidalgo

Hello! We’re actually heading rio tuba now with friend. Ask ko Lang yung tour package na 4500 per head for two 3d2n San ang pick up point? Thanks . Any joiners? Please pm me

I’ve heard about the “niknik” during the night, how bad is it? is OFF Lotion not enough to drive them away?

Nope. Even if it works I don’t think you’ll be very comfortable with insects around you.

I’m planning to go on my own this June or end of may who wants to Join me, so we can save more money I’ll bring my own tent as well

you want to check kilometerph meron na silang na organized na group. at may mga scheds na rin

Anyone going to palawan in june? Im island hopping and would love to visit balabac

I’m planning to go on my own this June or end of may

Jay Sebastian

Hi. I am planning to go to Balabac second week of August (9th).

Are there any of you here travelling around this time? If I can join your team that would be very nice.

Please give the contact number of tourism officer if you have.

Hi, we’re planning to go to Balabac on June 13-17. Hope we can find a group of travellers to whom we can join, so it will lessen our tight budget.

George Gaskell

hello, [email protected] here. George for short. A friend and I plan to go round about the same time; June 13-17. 2019. Please email your details if interested to join up and cut costs. And a million thanks too Katherine & Hali for this wonderful bit of info.

Eejay Corceles

Hi belle, my girlfriend and i are actually scheduled to tour balabac on june 13-17, 2019. DM me on instagram @eejayboang

Hi! I’ll be in Balabac from May 10 to 15. I hope I can join other groups to save money for the island hopping. Mac

Hello! We’re going to Balabac this coming June 2018? Anyone who wants to join us during our island hopping from June 8 to 10?

Hi! Are you still looking for travel buddies? My two friends and I will be in Palawan from June 6-11 and we’re planning to go to Balabac.

June 6 to 11 might work for me and a friend. Please email just in case we are able to manage these dates, so as to enable us to cut costs. Thanks and thanks again to Katherine and Hali for sharing.

June 8 to 10 might work for me and a friend. Please email just in case we are able to manage these dates, so as to enable us to cut costs. Thanks and thanks again to Katherine and Hali for sharing.

i and my husband were able to go march 19-21 and i would say this is by far my best beach experience ever in my many years of traveling to different beach locations in the country. we had such a great time. we met new friends during our island hopping. six of those who were featured in KMJS last sunday were with us in onuk island which we enjoyed the most. those who are going, please do not miss onuk. the hefty entrance fee is so worth it. i have so many stories to tell, good and not so good about this trip but i will need to write a blog about it. 🙂

Hi Judy thanks for sharing your experience. 😉

Hello! May I know who was your tour guide/boat operator and how was your transaction with him/her? Thanks.

Hello. I just saw this post and planning to go there alone 🙁 Let me know if I can join so that I can save cost

Hi! We are planning to go to balabac this may 29 (departure from manila). Any group interested to join para makamura tayo? PM me on FB- Sunshine Cervantes

get fidel….madali sya kausap at okay ang package rates nya

Earlier of May po meron?

May 2-6 pm me 09174037478 confirmed

Hi Sunshine. PMed you in FB already.

Jamie Lou Garces

Hi! Is that the final date? Will arrive in Puerto Princesa on May 31. May I still join the group?

Tried to search your name in messenger, it matches a lot of profiles po. I’m interested to join the group but I’ll arrive in Puerto Princesa on May 31.

fidel was our boat operator/guide and i highly recommend him.

I went down to Rio Tuba in Mid February and was told it is not safe for foreign guests (non-filipino) to go there at the time being. I had a very nice lady at the docks of Rio Tuba calling around to numerous numbers I gave her and some family that she has down there. The same response from all, they strongly discouraged foreign tourists from visiting at the moment. They are still operating boats (quite expesive – 6-7,000php for 3 day trips) for Filipinos though.

If boat operators that make money from tourism are encouraging foreign guests to stay away, it’s probably for a reason. To the foreign tourists, is it really worth putting yourself in danger or the other people with you as well?

Thanks for the update Bryan! Did they say why? (My friends had just gotten back from Balabac including Onuk this month, but then they are locals.)

I guess that the terrorists in the area will target foreign travelers specifically in the area. Just in the past year there was a foreign couple killed on a boat down there, along with a Filipino woman and her child according to what I was told. I’m quite sure they wouldn’t just be making that up. They didn’t say I couldn’t go, but just strongly advised against it.

As a foreign tourist, of course you shouldn’t put yourself in a potentially dangerous situation along with putting any Filipinos you would be with in dangers as well.

Hopefully one day things will get better down there!

I see. Thanks for this info! We were not aware of the news abt the foreign couple. 🙂 When we went tho I did mention (in another post) that I do not think Balabac is stable yet, hopefully it will be in the coming years.

Not a problem. And like you say, hopefully things get better in the future there! I would love to see it for myself one day.

di kami natuloy ng husband ko last year sa balabac due to time and money constraints but hopefully next month at nakabooked na kami. kaso ang mahal ng singil sa min nun nakausap ko. 3nights tig P10k each kami, island hopping lang un and food. kung 7k each kaya pa sa budge. but 10k each mukhang hindi na. sana meron pa akong mahanap na mas cheaper sa 10k at makasabay na mga grp. we will arrive puerto on march 17 and 26 is our flight back.

Hi Judy, sinong kausap niyo? Try contacting Kuya Boboy and Ate Lorna. My friends are going there also this summer, maayos naman yung quote sa kanila.

Hi po. I am planning to visit Balabac at baka aku lang mag-isa. I only want to visit Candaraman at Punta Sebaring. Side trip lang sa Candaraman and I’ll spend 2 nights sa Punta Sebaring. Do you have any idea how much it would cost me for the boat?

I don’t know since that’s a custom trip. Why don’t you ask the boatmen/tour guides for a quote? 🙂

sir anung date ang punta nyo ng balabac? kc kmi ng sister q..since dalawa lng kmi we’re planning to visit punta sebaring and another island malapit lng sa sebaring kc btin un araw namin? bka pd pd tyo tatlo kung same date lng un pgbisita mo para mas cheaper.. thanks

kelan kayo nasa puerto? baka pwede tayo mag joint forces para mas makatipid. 2 lang kami ng husband ko. dating namin ng puerto march 17. 25 ang balik. plan namin mag pa rio tuba the same day kung maabutan namin ang last trip. then pa bangkalan on the 18th kung saan kami ppick upin ni fidel (contact boatman ko) let me know guys. thanks

nku mam mgkaiba tyo ng date march 10-13 po kmi ng sister q.. sayang namn..

hi anne papunta pa labg ako ng balabac dito pa lanv ako rio tuba pier

hello anne…kmsta ang trip nyo last 10-13?

mjo disappointed kmi d sun package n nkuha nmin..then n delayed p un flight namin ng mahigit 2hrs..mjo maalon kaya ilang islands lng un npuntahn nmin.. pero no doubt mgganda tlga isla sa balabac worth to visit kahit malayo..

Pwede ba ako humingi ng itinerary mo? Thanks 🙂

mam may npg inquira’an aq 7500 per person lng kay kap andong ito un number nya 09204214583..

ser anung date ng balabac visits mo?

ALL the island-hopping BOAT TRIPS are CANCELED on Balabac! You can go there with public boat but NOONE will TAKE you any of the tourist DESTINATIONS since there are many discussions between island, boat owners, coast guards and tourism office of Balabac.

We ve just came back from Balabac.

This blog shoud be updated, before anyone effort to go there.

Hi Gabor, sorry to hear abt your experience and thanks for the heads up! Yes we’ve heard about on-going talks particularly about standardization of rates. Hope they come to an agreement soon. 🙂 If you have more updates, feel free to comment or message us so we can add it to the post.

Hala!!!panu kya yn?!!

It seems that island hopping tours are temporarily suspended. But my friends who’d been there this week were able to go island hopping. Guess there’s nothing else to do but wait until matters get resolved. 🙂

si fidel bago kong kausap…he gave me a much lower price.

Thanks for the tips! I’m going to Balabac in April! Did you have problems sa source ng drinking water in Balabac? Kasi parang hindi practical magdala ng maraming bottled water. hehe Thank you!

No. You can easily buy bottled water or ask for a glass in the eateries. 🙂

I wanted to let you know that Ate Bebeth, (Balabac assistant tourism officer: 0949 424 1605) no longer works with the tourism office.

Would anyone by chance know a different contact number to the tourism office there?

Hi Bryan, thanks for the update! I’ll go ask my friends if they have a contact number. 🙂 Please do inform us here if you get the new contact person also.

You can see my new response I made about my trip. Right now, I think it’s okay for Filipino tourists to visit but it was highly recommended that, I as a foreign tourist, didn’t visit due to concerns for the safety of foreign tourists in the area currently.

Hi, I can’t seem to find the contact number of White Heaven Lodge, do you have it? Thanks!

We didn’t get the number. It’s just walking distance from where the van will drop you off.

Hello Ms. Kath! If Sebaring Island lang pupuntahan namin then balikan lang agad, sa tingin mo po how much will it cost per head? Thank you.

Hi Cinderella, not sure… Better ask your boat operator. 🙂

i see…i’ll bring my 7yr old girl and little bit worried when it comes to camping for 2-3 nights(as offered by tour companies) your blog/article really help me to decide to do balabac on our own instead of getting a tour … thank you so much

Jasmin joy Villalobos Taneza

Hello Ms Kath.. fellow traveler here, enlighten me please, you don’t need to camp on those islands you mentioned,? on your day 2-4 you stay in balabac and do the boating every day from thereon? salamat

Yep. At the end of the day, we’d go back to the inn in mainland Balabac. I think it’s possible to camp in some of the islands but ask your boatmen to be sure.

Hi! My friend and I are planning to visit Balabac this March. More specifically, Onok Island is on the top of our list. However we were astounded to find out that they now charge 5000 pesos per head (entrance fee and meals included) just to visit this island. And that’s on top of the usual rate of 2000 per person per day Island hopping (3 islands per day). We tried to call diff boat operators and all have the same rates. Umm do you think it’s worth the price to still visit onok?

Waaa? Who are you referring to, exactly? Last time we were there, there was no entrance fee to Onuk Island. It’s a private property of the mayor and he used to just let visitors see the island. Did the mayor impose the new rate?

I just got an update and included it in the guide. Yes, the rate is now P5000 per head for a day tour in Onuk Island including lunch. Really pricey. I think I’ll skip on that. It’s not a 5-star hotel. But still depends on you.

Thanks for this detailed post. I just bookmarked this page for our future trip.

Quick question though: how the network coverage? Is there at least 3G?

Yep, but signal was intermittent so most of the time we just didn’t bother with our phones. Not sure how it is now. 🙂

hub and i are planning (well, im the one planning actually.he simply tags along 🙂 ) to go to balabac before end of january(20-24) from our northern palawan trip. considering the cost to get there and get back to puerto, kailangang magtipid…i really hope we may makasabay kami para mas mraming maka share sa island hopping. thank you so much for all the infos. they are a huge help.

If you’re on a budget I suggest just limiting your island hopping to the nearby islands – Onuk, Candaraman and Siksikan. It will cost you about P1500. Punta Sebaring is 3 hours away from mainland Balabac, for an additional P500.

Hi Zaida! I’m traveling solo to Balabac on Nov.20-24. You might want to come with me. Send me an email at [email protected] 🙂

We will be in Palawan again in April and we have already been to El Nido & Coron , we want do this area now. We’re foreigners so hope its not difficult to organise by ourselves

Hi Ana. We’ll probably go back next year, too. I hope you’d drop by again after your visit and let us know how it went. We get a lot of messages from foreign tourists asking the same thing and it’ll be a big help. 🙂

kapampangantraveller

Thank you for sharing your Balabac experience. Would explore on November and cross fingers for good weather.

Cheers for more travels!

I will travel novermeber 18-28th to Palawan. I plan to fly into Manila and then el Nido as the flight is one hour ish. Stay there for 3-4 days to island hop. From there fly back to Manila and then fly into Puerto princess and see if for a day if that. Then head to a tour to hit balabac island and island hope there to onuk and candarman. Is this enough time is there anything you can suggest. I may do a 5 day info you provided. Do I need the mayors signature to visit onuk? Thanks!

Hi Zaida, you can ask your boatmen to assist you in asking the mayor’s permission personally or you can send an email at least a month before. Contact the tourism office for more info on this.

Wow… Way back I was only allowed to stay in Rio Tuba. If I was just stubborn enough I would’ve discovered the place as well! Nice post and beautiful pics, Kat and Hali 😀

Anong meron? Security issues?

Hi! May I know if the rates of the tour are per boat or per person? There might be just two of us so I wanna know if it is still affordable.

Hi She. The rate is per boat. If you read the costing I clearly stated that with a rate of P8000, 2 people will have to spend P4000 each. 🙂 I hope that clears up any confusion.

hi kat.. is it possible to tour Balabac with my 3yrs old? and balak din kc namin mag el nido eh doable ba ang balabac and el nido for 8days?

Hi, I guess it’s okay if you’ll only island hop in nearby islands like Onuk and Candaraman and if you’ll manage to get a boat with proper roofing. Some islands are too distant kase. For example, from mainland it will take you 3 hours to reach Balabac island where the lighthouse is located.

Balabac and El Nido is doable in 8 days, but take note that El Nido and Balabac are on opposite sides of Palawan. It’s separated by at least 10 hours of land travel and another 4 hours of sea travel.

Backpacking Geek

Wow! Thanks for dropping by my space recently!

It was really hard to look for good references for a DIY sa Balabac! Kinilig ako because yours gave a great deal of info! Now I can start planning… 🙂 thanks again!

Oh, thanks for dropping by as well and you’re welcome!

I’d love to leave a comment in your site but there isn’t a comment option when opened in the WP reader. 🙂

Yeah… you will need to open the page to leave a comment. I’ll need to look for the settings in WP Reader to allow comments.

Thank you So much for this! I just want to ask kung dun na kayo sa balabac kumuha ng island hopping tour? Me and my boyfriend are planning to go there this August 2016 and we would like to backpack lang 🙂 Joiners are welcome!

Hi Isla! I already contacted Kuya Boboy weeks before our actual travel date. It’s okay if you’ll go there without an arranged tour yet. Just go directly to the tourism office for assistance. I have friends who went in Balabac without contacts and they encountered no problem naman.

hi Isla! we’re also planning to go to balabac on aug. 27-29. have you already booked a package tour? pls reply 🙂

hi isla! we wanna join for aug 27-29, 2016. do you still need joiners? we are a couple and we’re also in need of at least 3 joiners 🙂 pls pm me if interested. thanks! 🙂

Thanks for dropping by, Milet! Yep, better wait until election season is over. 🙂 I hope the newly elected officials do something to boost the tourism in Balabac as well as guarantee safety for tourists.

Roxane de Jesus

Hi, my cousin and I are planning to go on an April 16-17, 2016 trip to Balabac. Anyone interested to do a DIY with us to lessen the cost of fixed expenses like island hopping? The more, the lesser.

Roselle C Toledo

I’ve been wanting to go to Palawan. I find Boracay too crowded. I was not aware about Balabac. It’s so prinstine! Thanks for this article I also had an idea how much to save up.

Joy Perito-Priginal

The place really looks beautiful!Hubby and I will be travelling to palawan this october. I hope we can include it in our itinerary. Thank you for breaking down the expenses it will be really helpful as we always go on a budgeted trip!

Milton Coyne

I really want to visit the unspoiled beauty of Palawan .. this place has always been on my bucket list and your pictures make me so eager to push my plans this year!

Thanks for sharing your unbiased review on this place! I have been hearing my grandpa mention this place (Balabac) for so long since I was a kid. I didn’t know how beautiful this place was! I am going to Palawan this summer vacation and I am definitely am wanting to include this as my side trip with my family!

You’re welcome namesake! 🙂 I’ll consider other places though if you’re with a kid, since the boat rides during island hopping take hours and the motorized boats often used don’t have any overhead tarp to protect the boat passengers from the sun.

Aika Loraine

Last time, Air Asia had again their Piso Sale, I actually want to book for Palawan however, the fairs are too expensive so I decided to book for Kalibo instead. Reading this made me again think of booking a Palawan flight. I like it that you provided itinerary for this. I am a DIY traveller also. Uhum. Thanks to this blog entry as it will be a great addition to the very little material in the Internet about Balabac as you have mentioned.

Hi! I’m so glad i found this post. My friend and i are going to balabac in june so i need all the help i can get to prepare our itinerary. 🙂 Btw, you mentioned you werent able to go to Onuk? May i know why? Were you able to get the permit to visit the island? This is our main target location kasi so i would like to know if we need to get the permit before arrival sa palawan para sure and kung sino best contact person. Thanks in advance 🙂

Hi Awesome! You have to personally ask current Mayor Shuaib because it is his private property. So it depends if papayag siya. There are times he even lets visitors use his boat to go to Onuk Island.

Meron rin kasing security issue ngayon since election season (e.g., risk of kidnappings in the area etc.). This is what we were told by the asst. tourism officer.

When you arrive in Balabac, go to municipal hall to log your names in the local tourism register and also ask if Mayor is there. Seek assistance from your boatman, alam na nila yun. 🙂

Kat! You’ve captured our trip right on point. And I am also glad to see our beach conversation here. hehe

I think it also calls for everyone disposing their garbage properly – travellers and locals alike. Some of the trash seemed to have washed off from the shore and in the end it all comes back to us. Garbage is a big issue I think not only for Balabac but for other places as well. Though I am also hopeful that pretty soon the local tourism office will push for efforts to preserve the beaches since they are really that stunning. 🙂

’till our next adventure together! 🙂

Kelangan talaga more awareness and discipline regarding garbage disposal. Palaging yan ang problema sa local tourism e.

Yep, yep. See you soon! 😀

Hi Kath.. Good to see that you’re writing “again..” Hehe.. Refer ako dito sakaling mapadpad ako ng Palawan ha.. ; )

Hi Ranran, thank you! (Napaisip ako if I know you in person, if yes then PM mo ko here haha.)

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Escape Artist Katie

Island Hopping in Palawan Itinerary: How to Plan A Trip

Island Hopping in Palawan Itinerary: How to Plan A Trip

If there is one thing that’s worthy of your bucket list, it is island hopping in Palawan.

I have already been island hopping in Palawan twice. I credit it with being the destination which converted me from a ‘visit once only’ mindset to ‘if it’s good, why not keep going back?’

Palawan is the poster child for island hopping in the Philippines. Its dramatic, often dagger-edged limestone islands and emerald lakes are enough persuasion to book a plane ticket (which, by the way, you get from Manila to Puerto Princesa in Palawan for as little as $30 USD from AirAsia ).

Located in the southern part of the Philippines, Palawan is an archipelago of 1,780 islands. 

There are no shortages of new islands to explore, whether you want to adventure off the beaten track or stick around the most popular island hopping destinations in Palawan: El Nido, Coron, and Honda Bay near Puerto Princesa.

I created my guide to island hopping in Palawan to give you all the practical details and inspiration you need to create an awesome Palawan island hopping itinerary.

I’ve listed the best destinations for island hopping, along with their highlights and the cost of tours. I’ve also provided basic blueprints for itineraries for five days, one week, two weeks and three weeks in Palawan. Who said you have to worry about time constraints?

Disclosure : This post includes affiliate links. If you decide to click through and make a qualifying purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you – thanks for your support.

QUICK INFORMATION

Best Season: November – May

Best Flights: AirAsia

Time Needed : 1 – 3 weeks

Best Destinations: Coron, El Nido, Honda Bay

Most Underrated Destinations: Linapacan, Balabac Islands

Travel insurance: I recommend and use Staysure for single trips.

Best Island Resorts in Palawan

palawan trip expenses

Cauayan Island Resort and Spa

palawan trip expenses

Matinloc Resort

Best Hostels in Palawan

palawan trip expenses

Frendz Hostel El Nido

palawan trip expenses

Outpost Hostel Coron

Table of Contents

Is Island Hopping in Palawan Worth it?

Picture limestone islands, colourful reefs, and gorgeous, green lakes perfect for kayaking: that’s Palawan. 

Coral reefs and shipwrecks provide excellent diving and snorkelling locations in Palawan. At the same time, if you only want to unwind, the archipelago has plenty of remote white-sand beaches (some on deserted islands).

Aerial view of bangka boats and yellow kayaks in Small Lagoon in El Nido.

If you like to travel in luxury, there are large numbers of luxury private island resorts. Two of the most famous private island resorts are Cauayan Island Resort and Spa and Matinloc Resort near El Nido.

If you’re a backpacker, Palawan is also great. It’s a popular destination on the backpacker trail in southeast Asia. El Nido and Coron have a handful of popular hostels each.

In short, island hopping in Palawan is worth it for:

  • Tropical scenery, including limestone islands.
  • Snorkelling and diving with sea creatures such as sea turtles, rainbow fish and reef sharks.
  • Kayaking and/or swimming in large lagoons and lakes.
  • Visiting World War II wrecks and other shipwrecks.
  • Relaxing on remote beaches.
  • Visiting ‘secret’ or concealed beaches.
  • Delicious seafood lunches and fresh fruit.

Best Time to Go Island Hopping in Palawan

Timing is important when you go island hopping in Palawan.

Between June and October, monsoon season brings heavy rain to Palawan, which can cause island hopping tours in Palawan to be cancelled or postponed.

Shallow water next to limestone cliffs and a beach hut on Banul Beach in Coron.

The best time to go island hopping in Palawan is between November and May , the dry season.

I have twice visited Palawan in November and experienced dry, sunny weather both times, although I narrowly missed rainstorms in the weeks on either side.

Girl wearing a bikini sits on the edge of a bangka boat while island hopping in Coron.

November is the rainiest month in the dry season but it is considered ‘low season’, which gives you the advantage of competing with fewer crowds and lower prices than during the rest of the dry season.

March and May are the hottest months in Palawan. They are also the busiest for tourism, but they’re likely to be the driest.

How much does it cost to go island hopping in Palawan?

Compared to going island hopping in famous destinations like the Maldives or the Seychelles, island hopping in Palawan is very affordable. It’s slightly more expensive than island hopping in Thailand, if we are to compare it to another destination in southeast Asia.

Aerial view of a bangka boat and kayaks on clear water in Palawan.

In touristic destinations such as El Nido, you can expect pricing such as:

  • Private tour (for 2 – 4 people): 17,670 PHP (£250)
  • Group tour : Up to 3500 PHP (£50)
  • Luxury group yacht tour (e.g. this El Nido group catamaran tour ): Approximately 7,600 PHP (£110) per person.

In less touristic destinations, group and private tours may cost less

The distance to your destination plays a role in pricing because it requires more fuel for the boat. The same goes for the size and cost of the vessel.

When I was in Coron, I hired a private boat for one day (visiting Banul Beach only) directly through my guesthouse. It cost me less than 1,725 PHP (£25) per person for three people.

Best destinations for island hopping in Palawan

Distant green cliffs and ocean visible from the Mount Tapyas lookout in Coron.

Positioned at the very north of Palawan, Coron is not as touristy as El Nido. In my experience, it is also superior for snorkelling and has better-quality reefs.

Coron has a number of sunken World War II ships, some of which are shallow enough for snorkellers to explore. Wreck diving is fairly unique to Coron; no other area in Palawan has as many wrecks.

Scenery-wise, while El Nido has many areas of exposed, jagged limestone, the islands in Coron are greener and lumpier in appearance. It’s a welcome contrast.

I also found that there is more to do in Coron town proper than in El Nido town proper, which provides some extra variety and ideas for downtime. You can climb Mount Tapyas for views over the islands and town or visit local hot springs.

Highlights of Island Hopping in Coron

Shallow rocks and a boardwalk surrounding the green Kayangan Lake in Coron.

Kayangan Lake

Aerial view of Barracuda Lake, a popular spot for Coron island hopping tours.

Barracuda Lake

Aerial view of turqouise waters in Twin Lagoon in Coron surrounded by limestone cliffs.

Twin Lagoon

Long, white-sand beach backed by palm trees on Malcupaya Island in Coron.

Malcapuya Island

Average cost:

  • Group tour: 3000 PHP (£40) per person
  • Private tour: 6,000 PHP (£80) per person

Best tours:

1. Coron Ultimate Tour : Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon, Sunset Beach, Siete Pecados (coral garden) Skeleton Wreck and CYC Beach.

2. Tour A : Kayangan Lake, CYC Beach, Sunset Beach and Las Islas De Coral

3. Tour B : Barracuda Lake, Twin Lagoon and Smith Beach

For a more detailed look at island hopping in Coron and the best tours, check out my blog post on the best Coron island hopping tours . 

View over El Nido Beach and town from the Taraw Cliffs canopy walk.

El Nido is the most popular island hopping destination in Palawan.

Its emerald lakes and limestone islands are one of the first images you’ll see of Palawan.

El Nido is one of those rare places that is worth the hype. Although you will need to compete with crowds at the best-known island hopping destinations in El Nido, it’s also possible to find unoccupied beaches if you have the right guide.

Remote islands, large lagoons and lakes, and hidden or partially-concealed beaches are some of the main attractions in El Nido. 

Compared to Coron and Linapacan, the coral reefs are unimpressive. Unfortunately, since my first visit in 2018, many of the reefs have died due to the rising tourism and damage from typhoons.

El Nido also has access to Palawan’s best collection of luxury private island resorts. Many are sought-after honeymoon destinations.

In 2018, I visited Cauayan Island Resort and Spa , which consists of luxury five-star cottages on a private island with an infinity pool, spa, beaches and views over gorgeous jungle.

Highlights of Island Hopping in El Nido

Kayakers on turquoise water on Big Lagoon in El Nido, surrounded by limestone cliffs.

Helicopter Island

Three people wade over the sand bar at Snake Island in El Nido.

Snake Island

Small Lagoon

  • Group tour: 3500 PHP (£50) per person
  • Private tour: 17,670 PHP (£250) for a private tour for three people.

1. Tour A : Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Seven Commandos Beach, Shimizu Island and Corong Corong Beach.

2. Tour C : Hidden Beach, Secret Beach, Helicopter Island, Tapiutan Beach and Matinloc Shrine.

3. 50-foot sailing catamaran : Locations such as Big Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Star Beach (a private beach), Hidden Beach and Seven Commandos.

For a more detailed look at island hopping in El Nido and a description of every tour, check out my blog post on the best El Nido tour .

3. Linapacan

Girl sitting in a bamboo hut wears flowery cotton shorts and a halterneck bikini top.

Located between Coron and El Nido, Linapacan is my favourite island hopping destination in Palawan. If you want whole islands to yourself and the experience of chasing the tail end of a reef shark or a sea turtle along the edge of a kilometres-long coral reef, this is the place to go.

The only way for a regular person to experience Linapacan is on a multi-day island hopping tour between Coron and El Nido. They operate in both directions.

I have done the three-day Tao Philippines island hopping trip twice, once in 2018 and once in 2022. The idea is that you escape the crowds by sleeping (glamping) on remote islands in bamboo tukka huts and spend the day snorkelling and sunbathing while traversing between the islands on a large traditional bangka boat.

There are other popular companies for the tour such as the Big Dream Boatman Coron , which works out cheaper for the number of days it offers. However, I like Tao because it provides jobs to the local island communities and practices sustainable farming and fishing.

Highlights of Island Hopping in Linapacan

Glamping on remote islands

Girl wearing denim shorts and a bikini shorts stands on the beach next to a bangka boat in Linapacan

Sailing between Coron and El Nido

Girl wearing loose green trousers and a bardot crop top waves at the camera in Linacapan.

Remote locations

Bamboo hut surrounded by palm trees on a beach in Linacapan.

Snorkelling and relaxation

Average cost: 24,100 – 44,800 PHP (£350 – £650)

1. Tao Philippines : 3-day, 5-day (recommended) and 6-day expeditions.

2.  Big Dream Boatman Coron : 3-day and 4-day expeditions.

4. Honda Bay (Puerto Princesa)

Puerto Princesa is the capital city of Palawan. While the city itself is highly urbanised, Honda Bay is an island hopping destination located 15 minutes’ drive north of the busy city centre.

As an island hopping destination, Honda Bay is very small compared to El Nido and Coron.

It has access to a small group of islands with white-sand beaches, including the popular sandbar of Snake Island and the Starfish and Cowrie islands which are populated by large numbers of starfish.

Snorkelling is popular along Pambato Reef, which stretches on for 16 hectares.

There are lots of luxury resorts in the Honda Bay area because there’s a big market for island hopping from the city of Puerto Princesa, which is the capital of Palawan and has the main domestic airport on the archipelago.

Boat full of tourists glides into the cave for the Puerto Princesa River.

The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River

Between April and October, whale sharks can be spotted in Honda Bay. Whale watching tours are available. They follow WWF standards for ethical whale shark watching.

The bonus of visiting Puerto Princesa and Honda Bay is that you can easily take a day trip to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, a 24-kilometre underground limestone and karst river. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Average cost: 2,080 PHP (£30) per person for a group tour

  • One-day Honda Bay tour : Luli Island, Pambato Reef and Cowrie Island.

There is also a popular Puerto Princesa Subterranean River tour from Puerto Princesa, which takes one day. I took this tour with three friends.

5. Port Barton (San Vicente)

Bangka boats in Port Barton, lined with palm trees.

Port Barton is less known for island hopping in Palawan, so it’s great for escaping the crowds without wandering too far away.

It is located halfway between El Nido and Puerto Princesa and accessible by minivan in around four hours from either starting point.

For van transfers within the Philippines, 12Go has the best prices and availability.

In Port Barton, island hopping consists of visiting coral gardens, sand bars, beaches and even waterfalls. There’s less limestone and more palm trees and white sand.

Some of the tours focus more on reefs and others more on islands.

Fewer crowds are to be expected, as the destination is gradually growing in popularity.

  • Port Barton Island Hopping Tour : Turtle Spot, Exotic or Maxima Island and Twin Reef.

6. Balabac Islands

Crew stand on a bangka boat on a pink sand island in Balabac Palawan.

If you want to explore Palawan in its wildest state, with hardly any tourists around, head to the Balabac Islands at the very south of Palawan. Partly due to its long distance from Puerto Princesa and purely because it just isn’t as talked about, this Palawan island hopping destination has escaped the notice of many people.

The Balabac Islands have pristine islands, with lots of shallow water and snowy-coloured sand bars. There is also an island with pink sand, tinged by the coral. It is very rich in sea life. You might get to see dolphins and crocodiles (there are only a few around these parts).

Lagum Adventure Pagum runs a four-day and three-night Balabac Islands camping expedition , which explores the less-visited islands with local guides.

This is pretty exciting because previously, the islands were quite difficult to explore – and many of the tours lacked the social aspect that many travellers look for.

Island Hopping in Palawan Itinerary: 5 Days

  • Fly into El Nido.
  • El Nido: 3 days ( Tour A , Tour C and one day of travel/relaxation).
  • Puerto Princesa : 2 days ( Honda Bay and Puerto Princesa Subterranean River ).
  • Fly out of Puerto Princesa Airport.

This island hopping itinerary can be done in reverse.

You could also choose to visit Coron instead of Puerto Princesa, taking one day to do the Coron Ultimate Tour and one day to travel by boat or plane to El Nido.

Island Hopping in Palawan Itinerary: 1 Week

  • Fly into Coron.
  • Coron : 2 days ( Coron Ultimate Tour and one day of travel by boat or plane to El Nido)
  • Puerto Princesa : 2 days ( Honda Bay and the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River ).

Island Hopping in Palawan Itinerary: 2 Weeks

If you want to stick to the more mainstream destinations for island hopping in Palawan, you can use the following itinerary as your basis:

  • Fly to Coron.
  • Coron : 4 days ( Tour A , Tour B , one day to explore the town proper and one day of travel by boat or plane to El Nido)
  • El Nido: 4 days ( Tour A , Tour C , one day to visit nearby Napcan Beach, one day of travel to Port Barton).
  • Port Barton : 2 days ( Port Barton Island Hopping Tour and one day of travel to Puerto Princesa)
  • Puerto Princesa : 3 days ( Honda Bay , one day exploring the city and Puerto Princesa Subterranean River ).

If you want to explore slightly more adventurously, try this itinerary:

  • Coron : 3 days ( Tour A and Tour B and one day to explore the town).
  • Linapacan: 3 days (Tao Philippines Expedition).
  • El Nido: 4 days ( Tour A , Tour C , one day to visit Napcan Beach and one day of travel).
  • Port Barton : 2 days ( Port Barton Island Hopping Tour and one day of travel to Puerto Princesa).

Island Hopping in Palawan Itinerary: 3 Weeks

  • Coron : 1 day ( Coron Ultimate Tour )
  • Linapacan: 5 days (Tao Philippines Expedition)
  • El Nido: 5 days ( Tour A , Tour C and 3 days of other tours or relaxation).
  • Puerto Princesa : 3 days ( Honda Bay and Puerto Princesa Subterranean River and one day of travel to the Balabac Islands).
  • Balabac Islands : 5 days (remote island hopping and one day to return to Puerto Princesa)

Where to Stay When Island Hopping in Palawan

Too many people overlook how important where you stay is to your overall enjoyment of your trip.

Accommodation in Palawan is, luckily, varied. There are budget-friendly hostels and great mid-budget guesthouses. On the other end of the scale, there are beachfront resorts or luxury private island resorts.

Below, I’ve shortlisted some of the best places to stay in Palawan for budget or luxury trips.

Where to Stay in Coron

  • Best Hotel :   Two Seasons Coron Bayside Hotel
  • Best Hostel: Outpost Hostel Coron

Where to Stay in El Nido

  • Best Hotel : El Nido Garden Resort
  • Best Hostel: Frendz Hostel El Nido

Best Island Resorts in El Nido

Where to stay in honda bay.

  • Best Hotel in Honda Bay: Astoria Palawan
  • Best Hotel in Puerto Princesa: Princesa Garden Island Resort and Spa

Where to Stay in the Balabac Islands

Hotels and campsites in the Balabac Islands are not bookable through the usual platforms such as Booking.com or Agoda.

Instead, you will need to book directly by phone, through a tour guide, or ask your current accommodation to book you a spot if you don’t have a local SIM card.

  • JFK Mountain View Resort
  • Patawan Island Resort
  • Batalla’s Lodging House
  • Kap Andong Travellers Inn

What to Wear Island Hopping in Palawan

When you go island hopping in Palawan, you should wear your swimsuit or trunks underneath your clothes because there will be no private places to get changed. Most of the time, you’ll jump into the water directly from the boat to swim to the beach or snorkel over a reef.

Lightweight and quick-drying clothing is great for island hopping in Palawan because you will put them on over wet swimwear at the end of the day.

A lightweight cover-up, shirt or kimono will also be helpful to keep you warm when you’re wet and protect from sunburn.

In my guide to what to wear in Palawan and while island hopping, I also cover cultural expectations in the town proper and more tips for what to wear in each destination in Palawan.

What to Take Island Hopping in Palawan

  • Dry bag (10 – 20 litres)
  • First-aid kit
  • Swimwear (wear under your clothes)
  • Change of clothes
  • Beach towel
  • Water and reusable water bottles (no plastic bottles are permitted)
  • Sun cream/sun hat
  • Toilet paper
  • Snorkel (if you’re not renting one)
  • Sandals or flipflops

What to Expect from an Island Hopping Tour in Palawan

Bangka boat leading Coron island hopping tours rests next to a boardwalk outside of Kayangan Lake.

Most island hopping tours depart early in the morning. Unless you have paid online in advance, payment will be in cash in PHP.

In some locations, a buffet lunch will be prepared onboard the boat. Recently, this has been banned in El Nido, so you must source your own takeaway lunch from local restaurants or markets.

The larger the number of stops on your tour, the quicker it will be. If you want to have time for relaxation, it’s worth looking for tours with fewer stops (especially in El Nido or Coron) because they will spend more time at each destination rather than trying to fit in as many popular sites as possible into one day.

Sometimes the itineraries for tours are not fixed. Depending upon tides and weather or ocean conditions, your boat may alter its schedule.

This can also happen if a destination has already reached its full capacity; some destinations in Palawan have their guest numbers capped to limit the effects of over-tourism.

You may be required to pay an additional entrance fee for sites in Palawan. This usually applies to the most popular tourist sites, especially those in El Nido and Coron. It goes towards sustainable tourism practices.

Suggested reading:

  • The best El Nido tour : A, B, C or D?
  • The best Coron island hopping tours : A, B, C or D?
  • What to wear in Palawan
  • Diving Anilao Guide : Easy diving destination near Manila

There are lots of island hopping destinations in Palawan, including El Nido, Coron and Honda Bay. Lesser-known island hopping destinations in Palawan include Port Barton, Linapacan and the Balabac Islands.

To go island hopping in Puerto Princesa, head to Honda Bay 15 minutes’ drive north of the city centre, where there are reefs and islands such as Luli Island, Pambato Reef and Cowrie Island.

A one-day island hopping tour in Palawan typically costs 3000 PHP (£40) per person for a group tour or 17,670 PHP (£250) for a private boat tour.

For an island hopping trip in Palawan, 5 days is the minimum amount of time you will need. Ideally, you need one week to three weeks to go island hopping in Palawan.

A one-day island hopping tour in El Nido typically takes one full day (8 hours), including travel time. A speedboat tour usually takes five hours. Most tours depart around 9am from El Nido Port.

Katie Treharne

Escape Artist Katie owner riding a yellow quad bike over former lava fields on Mount Mayon in the Philippines.

I’m Katie, the owner of Escape Artist Katie. I have been travel writing since 2018, including writing for luxury travel magazines and publications such as Wanderlust.

As well as being a digital nomad who works and lives abroad permanently, I’m a big advocate for  offbeat travel  and pushing yourself out of your comfort zone.

I hope you found my article useful – find out more  about  me here or keep up with my travels on  Instagram .

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What to Pack for Palawan Trip: 90 Items and a Downloadable Checklist

Does packing for trips take forever? Do you ever get that sense of forgetting something without quite knowing what? As travelers ourselves, and as Palawan locals, we’re happy to share our list of things to pack for your Palawan trip. 

This is generally a “what to pack” guide for Palawan, but we’ll throw in some “whys,” too, so  you can decide if it’s right for you.  As a general list of things to pack, the goal is to uncover what’s imaginable so you can make a decision. I hope going through this list in total will remove your feeling of uncertainty. 

We’ve broken down our list into 8 major categories (6 essentials and 2 optional categories). You can select one of the following categories below and gloss over the list. A downloadable checklist is also found at the end of this post. 

Health & Hygiene

Work & entertainment.

  • Identification & Travel Reqreuiments

Clothes & Accessories

Traveling comfort, money & transactional.

  • Bonus: For the Kids
  • Bonus: Adventure Trips

And one more thing before we dive into our list . If there’s one thing to take away from this long post, it’s this :

We’ll start off with the health & hygiene essentials. Most tourists get how hygiene essentials are a must for your trips. But we cannot understate the importance of health items such as vitamins and sunscreens. 

Staying healthy and clean

Health essentials include, but are not limited to, your daily vitamins and medicines, first aid kit, shampoo, conditioner, soap/body wash, feminine wash, deodorant, and so on. I wouldn’t be surprised if some of these are  sold exclusively  by your retailers.  Looking for a specific item while on a trip is not only a hassle but is also probably a waste of time —  It’s probably not even available on an island like Palawan. 

  • Daily Vitamins (Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin D3, and Fish Oil)

COVID-19 has taught us to be more mindful of our health. These vitamins are what most medical professionals recommend we take daily.  But by no means is this an exhaustive list.  When thinking about what to pack for your Palawan trip, consider your unique circumstances and medications. 

  • First Aid Kit such as band-aid, anti-histamine, paracetamol. 

Although reputable establishments such as Ala Amid Bed & Breakfast typically have dedicated spaces and counters for first aid emergencies, it’s still probably best you bring your own. You never know when and where an emergency might happen. 

Are you allergic to dust or pollen?  Never leave the house without antihistamines.  These are literal lifesavers. 

  • Medicines for those with daily maintenance requirements 

Don’t forget this mini-list! As mentioned, consider your  unique circumstances .

  • Sunscreen ( UV rays are harmful )

Contrary to what some believe, applying sunscreen is not a vanity undertaking.  UV rays are harmful.  Are they cancerous? We’re not medical professionals so we can’t say for sure. But we recommend erring on the side of caution. 

  • Bug shields or insect repellents

As a tropical island with exotic insects, you’re bound to come across  a bug that’ll irritate your foreign skin . ( I learned this the hard way. ) The good news is over-the-counter repellents are extremely effective. Here’s the specific item we’ve tested:

palawan trip expenses

  • Spare Contact Lens

Bringing a spare is recommended because not all brands are compatible with your size. ( I also learned this the hard way .)

  • Contact Lens Container
  • Contact Lens Solution 
  • Eyeglasses 

If you wear contacts, you know how uncomfortable they can be over prolonged periods. 

Choosing your hygiene products

You might be thinking about getting your essentials from the local store that’s nearest your hotel or B&B in Palawan. This is definitely an option, but also  reconsider if you have certain preferences.

Most people will have preferences, whether out of necessity or taste. If you’re like this, we encourage you to bring your personal set because of the  limited availability and choices at Palawan stores . It’s just the reality here. Some niche brands, and occasionally major brands, will not be available in a city like Puerto Princesa — much less in smaller towns like El Nido and Coron.

The additional  hassle  and costs of bringing your stocks will be worth it. ( Most of the time. ) 

  • Shampoo 
  • Conditioner
  • Hair stylers (e.g., wax, mousse, etc.) 
  • Comb or hairbrush
  • Satin or silk ponytails
  • Satin or silk pillowcases or scarfs 
  • Blower and its accessories like a diffuser

Do you follow the curly girl method ( CGM )? Are you particular about your hair products? We can’t emphasize this enough, but  your niche products are probably not sold in Palawan . And this goes with specific ingredients that dry out your hair. Groceries here are limited in stock.

  • Soap or body wash
  • Feminine wash for girls
  • Toner and Moisturizer
  • Cotton and cottonbuds

While it’s true that most accommodation establishments will offer free tubes of toothpaste and toothbrushes, not everyone will. It’s probably best to bring your own. That’s not even mentioning how some complimentary tubes of toothpaste are generic and might have your allergens. ( Though that’s admittedly the unlikely worst-case scenario. )

  • Alcohol or hand sanitizer
  • Face masks and shields

“New normal” anyone? Whether you hate that phrase or not, it’s the reality we now live in. Stay safe and bring these essentials.

  • Essential oils

Really more a “comfort” rather than an “essential” item. We found people sniff these oils when their allergens kick in. If you’re anything like them, this might be of use to you. 

For the health-conscious traveler

  • Healthy snacks

Do you keep track of your caloric intake? Is maintaining your weight a priority? Consider bringing your preferred snacks. Airport and hotel meals can be expensive and packed with preservatives. 

But beware of food restrictions to your destination. Some countries prohibit fresh fruits, with extra fees and charges for anyone caught. You will want to consider this for intermediary trips before Palawan.

Luckily though, no such restrictions are enforced in Palawan. 

Long waiting times are part-and-parcel of vacations. This set has been teased as the  millennial essentials . But really, these are helpful devices that not only keep you entertained, but also facilitate navigation, allow online banking, let you continue the important work, and so on. ( Right? Or is this the biased millennial in me talking? )

What isn’t debatable is the picturesque beauty of Palawan. I’d say a good camera is a must. No Palawan trip is complete without pictures. No pictures mean it didn’t happen! ( I can feel the baby boomers cringing! Sorry folks. ) And I’m sticking to my biased arguments. 🙂

Someone has to work

Don’t get me wrong. You’re on vacation to have fun. But sometimes, certain things just have to be done to get the business engine moving. You know how it is. But we’re definitely proponents of keeping work to a minimum. 

  • Smartphones + chargers
  • Portable battery + cables
  • Laptops + chargers
  • iPads + chargers + accessories
  • Universal adapter 
  • Power strip

Having a power strip means you address both problems. Here’s what we mean by a power strip: See Shopee , Lazada , or Amazon US

Work hard, play harder

  • DSLR + chargers
  • Action camera like a GoPro + chargers + accessories (or a 360 camera)
  • Portable tripod 

Tripods are particularly helpful for solo travelers. But if you’re the friendly type, a picture-for-picture exchange is an option. 

  • Handheld selfie stick
  • Kindle or some other ebook reader to keep you busy in the airports 

You’ll occasionally run out of batteries and charging spots. A Kindle’s battery lasts over a week. If you’re into reading, bringing a kindle means you’ll never get bored at the airport. 

  • Extra storage space (flash drives, external drives)

This is especially helpful for long trips. Having the extra space means you won’t have to delete pictures before having a closer look with a large monitor. 

  • Earphones or headphones + chargers
  • Smartwatch or sport watch + chargers
  • Handheld gaming devices (e.g., Nintendo Switch) + chargers
  • Frisbees ( Because they’re pure joy at the beach! )

Identification & Travel Requirements

For the most part, passports will do. That said, it’s best to have other IDs on hand. For extended traveling, hopping from one country to another, remember to secure your Visas when necessary. Applying for Visas is country-specific, so plan ahead to reduce the stress.

Tip: Waterproof bags help secure your identification cards. These are particularly useful for island destinations like Palawan.

  • Other government IDs such as a driver’s license
  • COVID Vaccine Proof ( If applicable at the time you’re reading this. )

Some Visas are sent to your email (i.e., not attached to your passport). Make sure to print them and have a saved photo or file on your phone. We recommend having multiple copies.

  • Hotel itinerary
  • Plane itinerary (print out)

Have printed itineraries even if most airlines allow online check-ins or QR codes. The hard copy backup very much reduces the stress from a broken or lost phone. 

Packing for your Palawan trip isn’t just about the summer outfits. ( Well, maybe that’s 90% of it. ) We’ve talked about how the Palawan weather has been unpredictable ( See our What to Wear Series ) of late, so better come prepared. 

Here’s a combination of what we, and our guests, recommend for a typical Palawan trip. Also, check out our What to Wear Series for specific recommendations per itinerary.

  • Swimsuit or Trunks
  • Beach shorts
  • Lightweight or pocketable jacket
  • Quick Dry Clothes 
  • Caps or Hats
  • Waterproof bags for your gadgets and money

Getting there is usually downplayed by all the beautiful pictures at the destination. You know how getting to the destination can be a struggle, with the sleepless nights from early flights, waiting upright on uncomfortable chairs, and the rowdy children preventing your sleep.

We swear by this Ostrich Pillow Go (neck pillow). I understand that sounds like an advertisement, and the price might be prohibitive, but again we swear by it and have no regrets about getting it. You can buy this on Amazon or at your local travel shop. 

  • Neck pillow 
  • Earplugs to block off the noise (or your earphones/headphone)

Make sure you get the opaque eye masks that hug your nose bridge. It ensures light doesn’t bleed in. 

Palawan is a tourist destination and the economic progress has been quick. But as of writing, you’ll still see a limited number of automated teller machines (ATMs) around the island. This is especially true of remote areas and towns. Last time I checked there was barely a handful outside of Puerto Princesa. 

Also worth noting is, despite the availability of online payment facilities, Internet connections may be intermittent. We recommend bringing enough cash for your day-to-day needs. Also, have your foreign currencies exchanged before coming to Palawan. If absolutely tight on cash, money exchange stores are also available at the airport and the limited malls in Puerto Princesa. 

Philippine Pesos are the preferred mode of exchange in Palawan. US Dollars might be accepted in some cases, but be cautious of the exchange rates that’ll most certainly be against your favor. 

  • Debit cards 
  • Credit cards

Ensure to inform your bank of your planned trip if you’re planning to use your credit cards for international purchases.

Storing your items

Should you use a backpack, a suitcase, or wheeled luggage? 

There’s no right nor wrong answer, and it really boils down to preference, but think about these questions when deciding on what to pack for your Palawan trip:

  • Will you be staying at multiple destinations in Palawan over multiple nights?
  • Do you prefer to bring your stuff on excursions or are you comfortable leaving them at the hotel?

Most hotels allow you to leave your luggage while on multi-day trips. For instance, we (Puerto Princesa boutique hotel) are happy to store our guests’ luggage free of charge while they stay at El Nido for a night or two. 

Another great idea we’ve just recently discovered is the  travel bag organizer . You can put your clothes in small organizers and not have to unpack everything looking for the smallest items. It also saves on effort and time to decide what to wear. 

Tip: Having a schedule of what to wear will ensure you don’t end up overpacking. 

Optional: For the Kids

You know how kids are. And you certainly know what ticks  your  kids. Pacifiers can range from coloring materials, toy cars, tablets, and whatever else floats your (their) boat. 

  • Baby carriers

For hands-free and back pain-free traveling. 

  • Powdered milk
  • Baby bottles
  • Brush and sponges for cleaning bottles
  • Portable sterilizer for baby stuff
  • Portable breast pump and accessories
  • Insulated bag for storage of breast milk
  • Vitamins and medicines

Babies and toddlers tend to be picky eaters. Bring their favorites. We don’t want them throwing tantrums.

  • Lots of extra clothes

Not yet potty trained? You’ll need to bring lots of extra clothes for inopportunely timed bath breaks. 

We know bringing strollers can be inconvenient. We’ve been there. But consider how useful they are at airports. 

Our kids can use them for sitting or sleeping in there without you having to carry them around.

  • Baby first aid kit
  • Baby hygiene

Babies have delicate skin so don’t even bother leaving their essentials behind.

  • Baby swimming clothes

Optional: Adventure Trips

  • Portable tent
  • Mosquito net
  • Trekking shoes
  • Bike and bike bag

Palawan is a good biking destination. More developments are being made, with wide provincial roads in hopes of becoming one of the Philippines’ top sports tourism zones. You’ll definitely love biking around the island with the clean fresh air, friendly people, and breathtaking views. 

And that is it for our list of what to pack for your Palawan trip. This is probably more than you’ll need, but we hope we’ve covered enough to remind you of what’s important to you. 

Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments section below. 

Download this checklist

Click the image to enlarge. You can also download the PDF file here.

What to pack for Palawan Trip Checklist (Downloadable infographic)

Related Posts:

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  • The Ultimate Palawan Experience Blog
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A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Coron Palawan + (5D4N Itinerary & Expenses)

the viewing deck of kayangan lake

Home to one of the most picturesque spots in the Philippines, Coron is part of northern Palawan, where you can get to see the beautiful rock formations, dip into the world-class wreck diving spots, swim in its cleanest lakes and turquoise seawater, walk on its white-sand beaches, and many more. Coron is the third-largest island in the Calamian Islands in northern Palawan in the Philippines. It is a separate group of islands from the main Palawan island. 

It is often compared to El Nido, but Coron has its unique charm to attract local and foreign tourists! It has a lot to offer. Not to mention its most stunning photographed spots that you can only see in Coron! No wonder it is everyone’s dream destination in the Philippines ! So if you are considering visiting this island soon, here’s a comprehensive travel guide to Coron, Palawan with a sample itinerary and expenses.

Table of Contents

Updated Coron Travel Requirements and Guidelines 

dip in the clear waters of coron

Coron tourism is now again open for tourists. Thus, there are some requirements that you need to present to enter the island. Here are the following travel requirements for your trip:

  • Approved S-Pass Travel Coordination Permit
  • Vaccination Card
  • Confirmed hotel and tour (DOT accredited)
  • Roundtrip tickets

On the other hand, unvaccinated and partially tourists must present a negative RT-PCR test result valid within 48 hours before arrival. 

How to get to Coron, Palawan?

lunch time at the secret beach

If you plan to visit Coron soon, there are two ways to get there. It’s either by plane or via ferry. If you are taking a plane, their main airport is Busuanga Airport, less than an hour away from the town. Meanwhile, if you opt to travel by ferry, their boats are routed to their main pier, the Uson Island Public Pier.

Taking a plane is the easiest and fastest way to get to Busuanga Airport. Major local airlines such as Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and Skyjet offer and operate daily trips to Coron from Manila and other parts of the Philippines. 

Cebu Pacific usually offers promo flights to Coron. But that would still depend on which season you are heading to and where you are coming from. In our case, my friend and I got a chance to book a roundtrip ticket for less than a thousand pesos! If you have already decided to fly to the beautiful island of Coron, here are some of the details that you need to know when you get there via plane.

  • From Manila: To those who are coming from Manila, going to the island is convenient. Taking a flight to Busuanga will only take you approximately an hour. 
  • From Cebu: Local airline companies also offer direct flights from Cebu to Busuanga airport. From Mactan International Airport, travel takes around an hour and a half to Busuanga. You can either book a flight via Philippine Airlines or Cebu Pacific. Take note that Skyjet only offers flights from Manila. 
  • From Clark: If you are coming from Clark International Airport, there are also direct flights to Coron and it is also convenient to fly from here. Some people from Manila even book a flight here because it sometimes has cheaper direct flights to Coron. 1 hour is the average travel time from Clark International Airport to Busuanga Airport.

If you want to have a more adventurous trip, you can also take a ferry heading to Uson Island Public Pier. Taking a ferry might not be the fastest way to get to the island but it could certainly save you some bucks. Taking a ferry is the cheapest way to get to the island especially if you have difficulty finding more affordable flights. On the other hand, the ferry routes are mostly limited to the following locations such as Manila, Puerto Princesa , and El Nido.

  • From Manila: You have two options to choose from when taking a ferry to Coron. You can either sail with 2go Travel which offers weekly trips. The Manila to Coron ferry (and vice versa)  departs every Friday at 1:00 PM and every Sunday at 4:00 PM. Depending on its offered promos, seats, and seasons, the typical cost of taking a 2go ferry is around Php 1000+ (it can be lowered than that) . 2go Travel has different beds to select depending on your preferences and budget. 11-13 hours is the approximate travel time from Manila to Uson Island Public Pier.
  • From Puerto Princesa: You can take 2go Travel bound for Uson Island Public Pier with an approximate travel time of 16 hours. The ferry usually leaves Wednesday and Saturday and arrives the next day.
  • From El Nido: If you are going from El Nido, you can book a ride to Coron and vice versa via Montenegro Shipping Lines which cuts the travel time to 3-4 hours. They offer daily trips from 6:00 AM but schedules are subject to change. Regular rates are around Php 1760.

Coron Tour Packages

a sample coron palawan itinerary

The list below is the most common tour packages you can get on the island. This gives you an idea of which type of package you would love to avail once you get there. These are the usual tours that local tour guides can offer you.

  • Kayangan Lake
  • Coral Garden
  • Green Lagoon
  • Barracuda Lake
  • Twin Lagoon
  • Skeleton Wreck
  • White Sand Beach

Super Ultimate Tour C

  • Siete Picados / Twin Peaks
  • Barracuda Lake (Option to Add + Php 200)

Reefs and Wrecks Tour D

  • Pass Island
  • Lusong Coral Garden
  • East Tangat Wreck
  • Lusong Gun Boat & Shipwreck

Culion Island Escapade Tour E

  • Malcapuya Island 
  • Ditaytayan Sandbar

Busuanga Wildlife Safari Tour F

  • Calauit Safari
  • Busuanga Town
  • Buluang Fish Pond / Palapat Beach
  • Conception Falls 
  • Malbato Church
  • Black Island (Option to add)

Coron Town Tour

  • Church 
  • Lualhati Park
  • Cashew Store
  • Souvenir Shop
  • Maquinit Hot Spring

Here are some of the photos taken during our tour:

the beauty of twin lagoon

Getting around the island

the white sandbar

The town of Coron is very small and is very accessible to travel around the place. With that, there are some ways to get around the town. Not that it is only accessible, but it is also very affordable for tourists to use public transportation on the island. Either walk around, take a motorcycle, or tricycle, or get a travel agency to guide you throughout your trip or stay on the island.

  • By tricycle: This is the main public transportation on the island. It is cheap that you can visit every town spot without breaking a bank! Based on our experience, from the park heading to Mt. Tapyas, we only paid around Php 20 each! Tricycles are around the area so it is convenient to charter one whenever you need to!
  • By motorcycle: If you know how to drive a motorcycle, you can rent it from local accommodations offering rental services. You can go anywhere you want if you have your own vehicle, so you may opt to rent a motorcycle and explore more undiscovered places in town! This is a better option if you want to save more, or tour around at your own pace.
  • By foot: The cheapest way to go around the town. There are a lot of local stores, cafes, restaurants, and even souvenir shops everywhere. It is possible to visit them one by foot if you are ready for a long walk. Explore like a local! Everything is mostly likely walkable in the town. 
  • Tour packages: Availing tour packages is also a common option when visiting the island. Whether joiners or private tours, getting a package tour is also recommended, especially if you are island hopping. If you are on a tight budget, it will cost less to join a package tour. But if you prefer to have some privacy and have the right budget for your trip, you can opt to book a private package tour.

2D1N Camiguin Island Itinerary: Top Places to Visit

Where to stay in Coron?

When you have finally arrived downtown, the first thing that you would look for is accommodation. There are a lot of selections of hotels, hostels, and mid-range stay-ins where you can stay during your trip around the island. So here is a list of some of the accommodations where to stay in Coron .

Budget-friendly Hostels

If you are looking for some budget-friendly accommodations in Coron, you might want to check out the following:

  • Luis Bay Travellers Lodge
  • Jims Castle Inn
  • Sanctuaria Treehouses
  • Mario’s Travellers Inn
  • Purple HomeStay
  • Coron Backpackers Inn
  • Haven 1916 Bed and Breakfast

High-end Accommodations

If you have so much budget for your trip and want to experience a luxurious stay on the island, you might consider the following accommodations. 

  • SunValley Tourist Inn
  • Skylodge Resort Philippines
  • Bluewave Hotel
  • Sunlight Guest Hotel Coron
  • Balinsasayaw Resort

There are a lot more, these are some of the recommendations that I can give you. If you are curious about where we stayed during our trip, we stayed in Luis Bay Travellers Lodge which is part of our Coron tour package. 

Where to Eat?

Here are some of the restaurants that you can try during your stay on the island.

  • Santino’s Grill
  • Trattoria Altrove
  • Inihaw Project

Note: I’ll have a comprehensive guide on where to stay and where to stay in Coron soon!

Top Fun Things to do in Coron, Palawan

Of course, your trip to Coron all goes down to enjoy and do all the fun! To give you an idea about what you can do during your stay on the island, here is a list of some of the fun activities you can expect from your trip!

Go trekking at Mt. Tapyas.

watch the sunset at mt tapyas

If you want to get a panoramic view of Coron, don’t hesitate to trek Mt. Tapyas. This is a beginner-friendly mountain and you need 720 steps to hike the mountain! It may sound tricky, but a giant cross and an amazing view of Coron await you from the summit!

Swim in Maquinit Hot Spring.

maquinit hot springs in coron palawan

This is one of my personal favorites! If you want to feel more relaxed, you can head over to Maquinit Hot Spring and pamper yourself in the spring itself. It is a saltwater spring with a beautiful view of the ocean. Mangrove trees also surround the area. The best time to visit here is after the hike from Mt. Tapyas.

Go island hopping. 

coron island hopping tour

This will probably be the highlight of your trip. You will go island hopping during most of your trip to Coron. Here, you can get to discover the stunning rock formations and lagoons, see the undeniably clear waters of the ocean, experience the fine and white sand of every beach, be amazed by the wreck ships underwater, and try the best island foods. 

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Explore downtown.

i am coron signage at lualhati park

There are a lot of things to do in town. As stated earlier, there are a lot of restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops that you can visit around the town. Try their local foods as much as you can. Don’t forget to buy souvenirs too for your loved ones. Meet the locals. Talk to them. Also, if you are missing fast food, a McDonald’s is available for you. Personally, one of my favorite places in town is the view from Lualhati Park. It is just a small park, nothing special, but I love the view from the harbor. My friends and I personally loved taking lots of pictures here.

Try some water activities.

barracuda lake package tour

If you’re up for some water adventures, then you can try some water activities such as scuba diving, freediving, and snorkeling. Coron is considered one of the best diving spots in the Philippines. So it is also best to explore underwater if you have an extra budget to spare for diving. But going snorkeling would be good enough especially if you are on a tight budget.

Visit Calauit Safari Park and interact with the animals.

Calauit Safari Park is not located in the town of Coron. Still, you may also want to consider visiting this place if you desire some more adventures and wish to interact with the giraffes and zebras. This must be a part of your bucket list!

Unfortunately, my friend and I couldn’t visit the place due to limited tours (the travel restrictions had just been lifted during that time) . But at least, there are still some reasons to come back!

4 Top Enchanting Reasons Why You Should Visit Camiguin

Sample Coron Itinerary for 5D4N

If you are also planning to stay on the island for 5 days and 4 nights, here’s an example itinerary for you!

Day 1: City Tour

Day 2: coron island tour b.

  • Reef Garden
  • Banol Beach

Day 3: Coron Island Tour A

  • Sunset Beach
  • Barracuda Lake (add Php 200)

Day 4: Free Time (Rest Day)

  • Explore the town
  • Hike Mt. Tapyas

Day 5: Back to MNL

Frequently asked questions, how many days should i stay in coron.

If you are traveling to Coron for the first time, 5 days and 4 nights are the most ideal days to enjoy your trip fully. However, if you don’t have much time to spend, 4 days and 3 nights would be enough for you to enjoy the island’s beauty. 

My friend and I booked a flight for 5 days and 4 nights in our case. If you have enough time and budget, this is an ideal itinerary for you! We were able to explore the town for 1 day, go island hopping for 2 days, and one day rest while the remaining was our time to go back to Manila.

What is the best month to visit Coron?

The best months to visit Coron are during March, April, and May since this is the hottest season in the country. But on average, the island is hot all year round. The rainiest months are July and September. You may also visit in November, December, January, and February.

How much is the budget for Coron, Palawan?

It depends on how you are going to travel around the island. You have two options, either you join a group tour or you avail of the private tour. If you are a solo traveler, it will be much cheaper to avail a joiners tour. But if you are traveling with a big group, a private tour is also possible. In our case, we had spent at least Php 10,000 for 5 days and 4 nights of our stay.

Is Coron safe?

It is safe in Coron and even if you take out your luxurious stuff while walking around the town, you won’t feel threatened. The locals on the island are very kind and approachable to tourists. So no need to worry about your safety when you are in Coron.

Is El Nido or Coron better?

El Nido and Coron are often compared, but both islands are worth visiting! They both are a must-visit! El Nido may offer the best beaches and lagoons, but Coron offers island tours and better diving and snorkeling experiences.

Are there ATMs in Coron?

Yes, there are some available ATMs on the island but they are difficult to find within the town proper. But there are ATMs at the Busuanga airport.

Heading to Coron, Palawan soon?

Coron is indeed one of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines. A must-visit island paradise in the Philippines . If any case you have already decided to visit Coron, Palawan, just follow this sample itinerary and everything will be much easier for you!

Who to contact?

For your reference, you may contact the following:

  • TripidoTravel: (Michael Yao) 09175285680 / 09163490597
  • iKenTravel and Tours: (Ken Vicente) 09499926657
  • Steven Travel and Tours: (Stevien Camposano) 09167133709

For more travel tips and guides in the Philippines , follow this travel blog now!

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A travel blogger in the Philippines and a K-pop enthusiast, Ara Patria (The Adventuress) pursues her passion and love for traveling. She’s been blogging for years, where she writes about her own travel experiences and promotes the wonders of the Philippines. Not only does she promote the beauty of her country, but she also focuses on promoting sustainable tourism. She dreams of traveling the world and inspiring other people through her own written works and captured moments with her camera.

The Adventuress is a travel blogger with a purpose. She aims to inspire other people through her personal experiences, stories, and lenses. Outside her blogging world, she is an education, an SEO specialist, and TEFL/TESOL certified.

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From Manila to Palawan: A Guide to Philippines Trip Cost 2024

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July 17, 2023

Philippines trip cost

The Philippines is a beautiful country located in Southeast Asia. It is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and friendly locals. In this article, we will discuss the cost of traveling to the Philippines and provide you with the best tips for saving money without sacrificing quality. You will be provided with the best tips for saving money on hotels, food, souvenirs, transportation, and more.

When it comes to the major costs of a trip to the Philippines, flights and accommodation are usually the most expensive. The cost of a round-trip ticket to the Philippines can range from $500 to $1,500, depending on the time of year and where you're flying from. Accommodation costs can also vary greatly, from budget hotels or hostels that cost around $10 to $20 per night to luxury hotels that can cost upwards of $200 per night. The Philippines has an extensive and efficient public transportation system, including buses, jeepneys, and tricycles. The cost of a one-way subway or train ticket is around $0.50 to $1.00. Food costs can also vary greatly depending on where you eat. Budget restaurants can cost as little as $2 to $3 per meal, while mid-range restaurants can cost around $10 to $15 per meal.

If you're a budget traveler, you can expect to spend around $30 to $50 per day in the Philippines. This includes accommodation, food, transportation, and activities. If you're a mid-range traveler, you can expect to spend around $50 to $100 per day. However, it's important to plan ahead and research activities and costs to create a budget that works for you.

How much does it cost for 2 nights and 3 days when traveling to the Philippines?

How much does it cost for 2 nights and 3 days when traveling to the Philippines

Traveling to the Philippines can be an affordable and exciting experience. The cost of a 2-night, 3-day trip to the country can vary depending on your travel style, choice of accommodation, transportation, and activities. Here's a rough estimate of the cost for a budget traveler:

  • Flights : The cost of a round-trip ticket to the Philippines can vary depending on your location in the US. On average, a round-trip ticket can cost anywhere from $500 to $800 USD.
  • Accommodation : For budget hotels or hostels, the cost can range from 500 to 1,500 PHP or $10 to $30 USD per night. The total cost for 2 nights of accommodation can range from 1,000 to 3,000 PHP ($20 to $60 USD).
  • Transportation : The cost of a one-way subway or train ticket can range from 15 to 30 PHP or $0.30 to $0.60 USD. The total cost for 3 days of transportation can range from 300 to 600 PHP ($6 to $12 USD).
  • Food and Drinks : Per meal at budget restaurants can cost anywhere from 100 to 200 PHP or $2 to $4 USD. Street food and convenience store meals can cost even less. The cost of drinks can range from 30 to 100 PHP ($0.60 to $2 USD), depending on the type of drink and location. The expected cost for food and drinks for 3 days can range from 2,000 to 4,000 PHP ($40 to $80 USD).
  • Sightseeing and Activities : There are many popular attractions in the Philippines that are either free or cost a small entrance fee, such as Rizal Park, Fort Santiago, and the National Museum. Other attractions, such as island hopping tours or scuba diving, can cost a bit more per person, ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 PHP or $20 to $60 USD. The expected cost range for sightseeing and activities for 3 days can range from 3,000 to 6,000 PHP ($60 to $120 USD).

For a budget traveler who wants a 2-night, 3-day trip to the Philippines, the total cost can range from 7,000 to 16,000 PHP or $140 to $320 USD . It's important to note that these are rough estimates, and actual costs may vary depending on your travel style, activities, and other expenses. Nonetheless, the Philippines is a beautiful and affordable destination that is worth exploring.

How much does it cost for flights when traveling to the Philippines?

When planning a trip to the Philippines, one of the most important factors to consider is the cost of flights. The cost of flights to the Philippines can vary depending on various factors such as the departure location, time of year, airline, and availability.

If you are departing from major cities in the United States such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, or New York, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1,000 for a round-trip economy class ticket to the Philippines. However, prices can fluctuate depending on the time of year you plan to travel, with peak travel seasons such as Christmas and summer months typically being more expensive.

It's important to note that airline prices are subject to change frequently, so it's always a good idea to check with a reputable travel booking website or airline for up-to-date pricing information. Additionally, booking your flight in advance can often result in lower prices.

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How much does it cost for hotels when traveling to the Philippines?

How much does it cost for hotels when traveling to the Philippines

When planning a trip to the Philippines, one of the most important things to consider is the cost of accommodation. The cost of hotels in the Philippines varies depending on several factors, such as the location, season, and the type of accommodation the travelers are looking for.

  • Generally, hotels in major cities like Manila, Cebu, and Davao tend to be more expensive than hotels in smaller cities or rural areas. For example, a mid-range hotel room in Manila can cost anywhere from 2,000 to 5,000 PHP (40 to 100 USD) per night, while a luxury hotel room can cost upwards of 10,000 PHP (200 USD) per night.
  • In other cities and smaller towns in the Philippines, the hotel price range is generally lower. For instance, a mid-range hotel room in Cebu can cost around 1,500 to 3,000 PHP (30 to 60 USD) per night, while a luxury hotel room can cost around 7,000 to 8,000 PHP (140 to 160 USD) per night.

Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on the time of year and availability. During peak season, which is usually from December to February, hotel prices tend to be higher. On the other hand, hotel prices may be lower during the off-season, which is from June to September.

If you're looking for budget-friendly accommodation, there are also plenty of hostels and guesthouses in the Philippines that offer affordable rates. These types of accommodations can cost as low as 500 PHP (10 USD) per night.

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How much does it cost for food when traveling to the Philippines

When traveling to the Philippines, one of the most important things to consider is the cost of food and dining. The cost of food in the country varies widely depending on several factors, such as the type of food, the restaurant's location, and the level of formality or luxury.

  • Street food or fast food : around 50-150 PHP (1-3 USD) per meal.
  • Casual dining or local restaurants : around 200-400 PHP (4-8 USD) per meal.
  • Mid-range restaurants : around 500-1000 PHP (10-20 USD) per meal.
  • High-end or luxury restaurants : cost you upwards of 2000 PHP (40 USD) per meal.

If you're looking for more affordable options for food in the Philippines, there are convenience stores and supermarkets that offer a variety of tasty and healthy food at reasonable prices. You can expect to pay around 50-150 PHP (1-3 USD) for a meal from these places.

Tipping is not customary in the Philippines. The prices listed above are typically the final price you will pay, but prices can vary depending on the location and the time of year.

The cost of food in the Philippines can vary widely depending on the type of food, the restaurant's location, and the level of formality or luxury. However, there are affordable options available, and tipping is appreciated but not required.

How much does it cost for souvenirs when traveling to the Philippines?

How much does it cost for souvenirs when traveling to the Philippines

If you're planning a trip to the Philippines, you may be wondering how much you should budget for souvenirs. The truth is, the cost of souvenirs in the Philippines can vary widely depending on what you're looking for, where you're shopping, and the quality of the item.

Here are four popular souvenirs and their approximate prices:

  • T-shirts : PHP 200-500 ($4-10 USD)
  • Keychains : PHP 50-100 ($1-2 USD)
  • Handmade bags : PHP 500-1,500 ($10-30 USD)
  • Wooden carvings : PHP 500-2,000 ($10-40 USD)

Many souvenir shops in tourist areas have fixed prices, but there may be room for negotiation in other types of stores, such as flea markets or antique shops. Prices can also vary depending on the time of year, with peak tourist season generally resulting in higher prices.

To get the best deal on souvenirs, it's always a good idea to shop around and compare prices before making a purchase. And remember, bargaining is a common practice in the Philippines, so don't be afraid to negotiate for a better price.

How much does it cost for transportation when traveling to the Philippines?

How much does it cost for transportation when traveling to the Philippines

The Philippines is a beautiful country with a lot to offer, from stunning beaches to bustling cities. However, getting around the country can be a bit of a challenge, especially for first-time visitors. In this article, we'll take a look at the cost of transportation in the Philippines and provide some tips to help you get around.

The cost of transportation in the Philippines varies depending on the mode of transportation and the distance traveled. Here are some approximate costs:

  • Train : The Philippine National Railways (PNR) operates a limited train service in the country. A one-way ticket from Manila to Bicol costs around PHP 1,000 (USD 20).
  • Subway : The Philippines currently has no subway system.
  • Bus : Buses are a popular mode of transportation in the Philippines, especially for long-distance travel. A bus ride from Manila to Baguio costs around PHP 500 (USD 10).
  • Taxi : Taxis are widely available in the Philippines, but they can be quite expensive compared to other modes of transportation. A taxi ride from Manila to Makati costs around PHP 200 (USD 4).
  • Rental car : Renting a car in the Philippines is a good option if you plan to do a lot of traveling in a short period. The cost of renting a car varies depending on the type of car and the rental company. A compact car can cost around PHP 1,500 (USD 30) per day.
  • Grab : Grab is a popular ride-hailing app in the Philippines. The cost of a Grab ride varies depending on the distance traveled and the time of day.

The Philippines has transportation passes and discount tickets available for visitors. The Manila Tourist Ticket, for example, allows visitors to use the city's trains, buses, and jeepneys for one day for only PHP 150 (USD 3). The pass also includes discounts to various attractions in the city.

How much does it cost for sightseeing when traveling to the Philippines?

How much does it cost for sightseeing when traveling to the Philippines

If you're planning a trip to the Philippines, you might be wondering how much it will cost to see all the sights. The truth is, the cost of sightseeing in the Philippines can vary widely depending on the location, attraction, and activity.

Here are some approximate costs in Philippine Peso (PHP) and US dollars (USD) for popular tourist attractions and activities:

  • Temples and shrines : Many temples and shrines in the Philippines are free to enter, but some may charge a small fee for maintenance. For example, the entrance fee for the Santo Niño Basilica in Cebu City is PHP 30 (USD 0.60).
  • Museums and galleries : The National Museum of the Philippines in Manila is free to enter, while some private museums may charge a fee. The entrance fee for the Ayala Museum in Makati City is PHP 425 (USD 8.50).
  • Theme parks : The Enchanted Kingdom in Laguna Province charges PHP 900 (USD 18) for a regular day pass.
  • Island hopping : Island hopping tours are a popular activity in the Philippines, especially in places like Palawan and Siargao. Prices can vary depending on the location and the number of islands you want to visit, but expect to pay around PHP 1,500-2,500 (USD 30-50) per person for a full-day tour.
  • Waterfalls : The Philippines is home to many beautiful waterfalls, such as Kawasan Falls in Cebu and Pagsanjan Falls in Laguna. Entrance fees can range from PHP 20-100 (USD 0.40-2) per person.
  • Food tours : The Philippines is known for its delicious cuisine, and taking a food tour is a great way to sample local dishes. Prices can vary depending on the tour company and the number of stops, but expect to pay around PHP 1,500-2,000 (USD 30-40) per person.
  • Historical sites : The Philippines has a rich history, and there are many historical sites to visit, such as the Banaue Rice Terraces in Ifugao and the Magellan's Cross in Cebu City. Entrance fees can range from PHP 20-100 (USD 0.40-2) per person.
  • Beaches : The Philippines is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and many of them are free to visit. Some popular beaches with amenities like restaurants and water sports rentals may charge a small entrance fee, such as White Beach in Boracay (PHP 75/USD 1.50 per person).

There are many free or low-cost sightseeing options in the Philippines as well. For example, you can visit the historic walled city of Intramuros in Manila for free, or take a stroll along the beautiful beaches of Boracay Island without spending a dime. So, whether you're on a tight budget or looking to splurge, there's something for everyone in the Philippines.

How much does it cost for Wi-Fi & communication when traveling to the Philippines?

How much does it cost for Wi-Fi & communication when traveling to the Philippines

When traveling to the Philippines, staying connected is important for many travelers. Whether it's for work, keeping in touch with loved ones, or simply sharing your travel experiences on social media, having access to Wi-Fi and communication is essential. In this article, we'll explore the options and cost range for accessing Wi-Fi in the Philippines.

  • Wi-Fi Rental : One option for accessing Wi-Fi in the Philippines is to rent a Wi-Fi router. Many rental companies offer this service, with prices ranging from PHP 150-500 (USD 3-10) per day, depending on the plan and rental company. This option is ideal for travelers who need constant access to the internet and want to avoid the hassle of buying a SIM card.
  • SIM Card : Another option for accessing Wi-Fi in the Philippines is to purchase a SIM card. Most major providers offer data plans for tourists, with prices ranging from PHP 50-500 (USD 1-10) per day, depending on the data plan and provider. This option is ideal for travelers who want to use their own device and have access to the internet on-the-go.
  • Free Wi-Fi : Many establishments in the Philippines offer free Wi-Fi for customers, including cafes, restaurants, and shopping malls. Some popular chains that offer free Wi-Fi include Starbucks, McDonald's, and Jollibee. Additionally, some hotels and accommodations offer free Wi-Fi for guests, so be sure to check before booking.
  • Smartphone Apps : There are also smartphone apps that provide access to free Wi-Fi hotspots throughout the Philippines. One popular app is WiFi Map, which allows users to find and connect to free Wi-Fi hotspots in their area. Another app is Free Wi-Fi Philippines, which provides a map of free Wi-Fi hotspots throughout the country.

The cost of Wi-Fi in the Philippines can vary depending on the method of access and the data plan. However, there are many options available for travelers to stay connected while in the country. Whether you choose to rent a Wi-Fi router, purchase a SIM card, or take advantage of free Wi-Fi hotspots, staying connected in the Philippines is easy and affordable.

How much does it cost for a passport when traveling to the Philippines?

How much does it cost for a passport when traveling to the Philippines

If you're planning to travel to the Philippines, one of the first things you need to consider is getting a passport. The cost of a passport for traveling to the Philippines will depend on your country of citizenship and the type of passport application.

Here's a breakdown of passport fees for standard adult and child applications in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia:

  • United States : $145 for adults, $115 for children under 16
  • United Kingdom : £85 for adults, £58.50 for children under 16
  • Australia : AUD 298 for adults, AUD 148 for children under 16

Passport fees can vary depending on the country of citizenship and the type of application. Some countries may also require additional fees for visa applications or other travel documents. To ensure you have the most up-to-date information on passport and visa requirements and fees, it's always a good idea to check with your local embassy or consulate.

How much does it cost for insurance when traveling to the Philippines?

How much does it cost for insurance when traveling to the Philippines

Travel insurance is an essential aspect of any trip, especially when traveling to a foreign country like the Philippines. It provides peace of mind and financial protection in case of unexpected events like accidents, illnesses, or trip cancellations. However, the cost of travel insurance can vary depending on several factors.

Here are some general guidelines for travel insurance costs when traveling to the Philippines:

  • Single Trip Travel Insurance Policy : A single trip travel insurance policy covers one trip to the Philippines and typically costs between $20 and $100, depending on the coverage and duration of the trip. This policy is ideal for travelers who only plan to visit the Philippines once in a year.
  • Annual Travel Insurance Policy : An annual travel insurance policy covers multiple trips to the Philippines within a year and typically costs between $200 and $500, depending on the coverage and duration of each trip. This policy is ideal for frequent travelers who visit the Philippines multiple times in a year.
  • Comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy : A comprehensive travel insurance policy covers a wide range of events, including medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost or stolen luggage. The cost of this policy can range from $50 to $200, depending on the coverage and duration of the trip.

It's important to shop around and compare travel insurance policies from different providers to find the coverage that best meets your needs and budget. Be sure to read the policy details carefully and understand what is and isn't covered, as well as any deductibles or exclusions. Additionally, some credit cards and travel booking sites offer travel insurance as a benefit or add-on, so be sure to check those options as well.

How much does it cost for family, couples or single when traveling to the Philippines?

How much does it cost for family, couples or single when traveling to the Philippines

The Philippines is a beautiful country with a rich culture and stunning landscapes. It is a popular destination for travelers looking for adventure, relaxation, and a taste of the local culture. The cost of traveling to the Philippines can vary widely depending on a number of factors, such as the length of the trip, the type of accommodation, the level of luxury, the activities planned, and the number of travelers. Here are some estimated costs for a trip to the Philippines:

  • Airfare : The cost of airfare to the Philippines can vary depending on the departure city and the time of year. A round-trip ticket from the United States to the Philippines can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,500 per person.
  • Accommodation : The cost of accommodation in the Philippines can vary depending on the type of lodging and the location. A budget hotel or hostel can cost around 500-1,000 PHP ($10-20 USD) per night, while a mid-range hotel can cost around 2,000-4,000 PHP ($40-80 USD) per night. Luxury hotels and ryokans can cost upwards of 10,000 PHP ($200 USD) per night.
  • Food and drink : The cost of food and drink in the Philippines can vary depending on the type of cuisine and the level of luxury. A budget meal at a local restaurant can cost around 100-200 PHP ($2-4 USD) per person, while a mid-range meal can cost around 300-500 PHP ($6-10 USD) per person. A cup of coffee can cost around 100-150 PHP ($2-3 USD), while a beer can cost around 50-100 PHP ($1-2 USD).
  • Transportation : The cost of transportation in the Philippines can vary depending on the mode of travel and the distance. A single metro or train ticket can cost around 15-25 PHP ($0.30-0.50 USD), while a long-distance bullet train ticket can cost around 1,000-2,000 PHP ($20-40 USD). Taxis and car rentals can also add to the transportation costs.

The cost of traveling to the Philippines can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per person, depending on the factors mentioned above. For a family, couple, or single traveler, the expected cost range for a trip to the Philippines can be around $1,000 to $5,000 USD, depending on the travel style and preferences. It is important to plan ahead and budget accordingly to ensure a memorable and enjoyable trip to the Philippines.

Methods to Save Money When Traveling to the Philippines

Methods to Save Money When Traveling to the Philippines

Traveling to the Philippines can be an exciting and enriching experience, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are several ways to save money when traveling to this beautiful country. By following these tips, you can make your trip to the Philippines more affordable without sacrificing any of the fun.

  • Travel during the off-season : One of the best ways to save money when traveling to the Philippines is to visit during the off-season. The peak season for tourism in the Philippines is from December to May, so if you can plan your trip for the months outside of this period, you can save a lot of money on flights, accommodations, and activities.
  • Stay in budget accommodations : Another way to save money when traveling to the Philippines is to stay in budget accommodations. Hostels, guesthouses, and homestays are all great options for budget travelers. Not only are they more affordable than hotels, but they also offer a more authentic experience of the local culture.
  • Eat like a local : Food is a big part of the travel experience, but it can also be a big expense. To save money on food when traveling to the Philippines, eat like a local. Street food is a great option for budget travelers, and it's also a great way to try new and exciting dishes.
  • Use public transportation : Taxis and private transportation can be expensive in the Philippines, so using public transportation is a great way to save money. Jeepneys, tricycles, and buses are all affordable options for getting around the country.
  • Plan your activities in advance : Finally, planning your activities in advance can help you save money when traveling to the Philippines. Many attractions offer discounts for booking in advance, and you can also find great deals on tours and activities online.

Tips for Traveling to the Philippines

Tips for Traveling to the Philippines

Traveling to the Philippines can be an exciting and memorable experience, but it is important to be prepared and informed before you go. Here are some useful tips for traveling to the Philippines:

  • Learn some basic phrases in Tagalog : It is the most widely spoken language in the Philippines. For example, "hello" is "kumusta" and "thank you" is "salamat."
  • Be prepared for the weather : The Philippines has a tropical climate, which means it can be hot and humid year-round. Bring light, breathable clothing and sunscreen.
  • Be aware of the local customs and traditions : The Philippines is a predominantly Catholic country, so it is important to dress modestly when visiting churches or other religious sites.
  • Try the local cuisine : Filipino food is a unique blend of Malay, Chinese, Spanish, and American influences. Don't miss out on dishes like adobo, sinigang, and lechon.
  • Be cautious when traveling at night : Some areas of the Philippines, particularly in urban areas, can be unsafe after dark. Stick to well-lit, populated areas and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables.
  • Bring insect repellent : Mosquitoes and other insects can be a problem in the Philippines, especially in rural areas.
  • Be respectful of the environment : The Philippines has some of the most beautiful beaches and natural attractions in the world. Help preserve them by not littering or damaging the local flora and fauna.
  • Have fun : The Philippines is a vibrant and welcoming country with a rich culture and history. Embrace the experience and enjoy all that this beautiful country has to offer.

2024 Frequently Asked Questions about Philippines Trip Cost

How much does it cost to travel between islands in the philippines, what is the average cost of a massage in the philippines, how much should i budget for medical expenses in the philippines, how much should i budget for emergency expenses in the philippines, are there any hidden costs or fees that i should be aware of when traveling to the philippines.

Philippines Trip Cost 2024

  • 1. How much does it cost for 2 nights and 3 days when traveling to the Philippines?
  • 2. How much does it cost for flights when traveling to the Philippines?
  • 3. How much does it cost for hotels when traveling to the Philippines?
  • 4. How much does it cost for food when traveling to the Philippines?
  • 5. How much does it cost for souvenirs when traveling to the Philippines?
  • 6. How much does it cost for transportation when traveling to the Philippines?
  • 7. How much does it cost for sightseeing when traveling to the Philippines?
  • 8. How much does it cost for Wi-Fi & communication when traveling to the Philippines?
  • 9. How much does it cost for a passport when traveling to the Philippines?
  • 10. How much does it cost for insurance when traveling to the Philippines?
  • 11. How much does it cost for family, couples or single when traveling to the Philippines?
  • 12. Methods to Save Money When Traveling to the Philippines
  • 13. Tips for Traveling to the Philippines

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How much does an alaska cruise cost in 2024.

Compare the prices of these eight voyages before booking your Alaska cruise.

Alaska Cruise Cost

The Holland American Line Noordam ship in Skagway, Alaska.

Courtesy of Holland America Line

If you're planning a cruise to Alaska this year, you may be enticed by low prices (in the hundreds) for a weeklong cruise. However, it's important to know that those fares are just the beginning of the cost for the entire trip.

Typically, the lowest advertised prices with mainstream cruise lines don't include taxes and port fees, specialty dining costs, alcoholic or nonalcoholic drinks, shore excursions , Wi-Fi access, gratuities and other expenses. On top of that, bargain fares usually refer to inside cabins with no windows. In a picturesque, bucket list destination like Alaska, you will realistically want a room with a private balcony so you can take in the spectacular scenery from the comfort of your room.

When to cruise to Alaska depends on what you're interested in seeing and doing during your vacation , but summer is typically the best time to visit The Great Land. Between mid-May and mid-July, you can experience 24 hours of daylight. This period is also an optimal time for wildlife viewing; you can see bears feasting on salmon, humpback whales and orcas, furry baby moose and thousands of nesting bald eagles. Cruise lines often reserve their lowest prices for sailings early or late in the Alaska cruising season , but it's still possible to find deals in the middle of the summer.

With all of this in mind, we've listed both the lowest interior cabin fares and the average total costs for a balcony stateroom across eight popular cruise lines for weeklong itineraries in June 2024. (Note: All fares quoted are per person, double occupancy, unless otherwise noted. Prices were accurate at the time of writing.)

Find your perfect cruise

Holland America Line

The Holland America Line Noordam in Yakutat Bay.

Holland America Line's 2024 Alaska season extends from April to September; in 2024, there are more than 60 cruise-only voyages and cruisetours (combined land and sea packages). With the exception of one 28-day journey, itineraries range from seven to 18 days.

Average starting price (per person)

This June, Holland America 's lowest-priced itinerary is the 7-Day Glacier Discovery Southbound voyage departing from Whittier, Alaska, on June 23, 2024, aboard Nieuw Amsterdam . The voyage features scenic cruising in Hubbard Glacier, Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve and the Inside Passage. You'll also stop in the Alaska towns of Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, before disembarking in Vancouver, British Columbia . The starting price is $409 per person for an inside cabin, and veranda staterooms start at $2,114 per person (cruise-only fare).

Starting price (per person)

For this sailing, there is a $291 charge per person for taxes, fees and port expenses. Specialty dining, alcoholic drinks (and many nonalcoholic beverages, such as bottled water and specialty coffees), excursions, Wi-Fi access, gratuities and some other amenities cost extra.

Instead of paying for these extras individually, you can book Holland America's "Have It All" package. It covers one dinner at a specialty restaurant; one shore excursion (up to $100 per guest); a signature beverage package (for drinks up to $11 each) and a Wi-Fi package. For a limited time, you can also receive a $200 onboard credit per stateroom. A veranda stateroom plus the package starts at $2,569 per person.

If you purchase the "Have It All" package with the veranda stateroom, select the location of your cabin yourself (an additional $90), add in the port taxes and fees ($291) and include crew gratuities at $17 per guest, per day for non-suite staterooms ($119), the total cost is about $3,000 per person. You'll still need to budget for drinks that cost more than $11 each; bottles of wine with dinner; additional evenings of specialty dining; other shore excursions and miscellaneous expenses.

Total cost: From $3,069 per person

Princess Cruises

The Crown Princess in Haines, Alaska.

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

Princess is offering 14 unique itineraries and 68 cruisetours during the 2024 Alaska season, which runs from May to September. Itineraries range from a seven-day cruise to a 17-day escorted cruisetour.

Princess's lowest-priced cruise in June is the 7-Day Voyage of the Glaciers with Glacier Bay (Northbound) from Vancouver, British Columbia, to Anchorage (Whittier), Alaska , on Grand Princess. Embarking on June 5, 2024, the sailing includes scenic cruising in College Fjord and Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, a day at sea and stops in the coastal towns of Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway in Alaska. Interior cabins start at $448 per person, while staterooms with a balcony start at $1,698 per person. If you select your own balcony stateroom (instead of letting the cruise line place you), the cost is $1,791 per person.

Additional fees (taxes, gratuities, etc.)

Taxes, fees and port expenses for this cruise will run you $284 per person. At the $1,791 rate, you will be in the Princess Standard fare class, which includes the ships' complimentary dining venues, entertainment and the MedallionClass experience.

You can upgrade to Princess Plus (starting at $2,211 for a balcony room) to add Wi-Fi access (one device per guest); gratuities; a beverage package (covering drinks up to $15 each); two fitness classes per cruise; two premium desserts per day; two casual dining meals and more. For additional amenities, such as Wi-Fi access for up to four devices per guest; a higher-level beverage package (for drinks up to $20 each); two specialty dining meals per guest; unlimited exercise classes and more, opt for the Princess Premier package. Balcony rooms under this category start at $2,351 per guest.

If you purchase the Princess Premier package with the balcony room, the total cost with port taxes and fees is a little more than $2,600 per person – and the pricing is nearly all-inclusive. This package may also include free cruise fare for third and fourth guests traveling in the same stateroom. You will still need to budget for shore excursions; note that over-the-top experiences like flightseeing, helicopter and dog sledding tours, and scenic rides on the historic White Pass and Yukon Route Railway can get pricey.

Total cost: From $2,635 per person

Norwegian Cruise Line

The Norwegian Bliss in Ketchikan, Alaska.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line offers one of the longest Alaska cruising seasons. In 2024, there are 44 scheduled cruise and cruisetour itineraries between April and October, ranging from seven to 18 days.

The June 3, 2024, sailing on Norwegian Jewel is Norwegian Cruise Line 's least expensive Alaska cruise that month, starting at $449 per person for an inside cabin. In comparison, a balcony cabin starts at $1,879 per person. The itinerary – Alaska: Hubbard Glacier & Skagway – embarks from Seward, Alaska, and includes scenic sea days cruising Hubbard Glacier and the Inside Passage, plus stops in the ports of Icy Strait Point, Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan (Ward Cove) in Alaska, before disembarking in Vancouver, British Columbia.

The line's ongoing "Free At Sea" deal is included in the price and features an unlimited open bar, free specialty dining (up to $180 for the first two guests in the stateroom), a discount of $50 per excursion and complimentary Wi-Fi access (a savings of up to $200).

Open bar and specialty dining gratuities in the package are approximately $175 per person. Taxes, fees and port expenses are about $302 per person. You'll also need to include the additional $20 per person, per day service charge ($140 for the seven-day voyage).

If you book the balcony stateroom at $1,879 per person, which includes the "Free At Sea" package, and add in the taxes and port fees, dining and beverage gratuities and the daily service charge for the crew, the total cost for the cruise is around $2,500 per person. Remaining costs for shore excursions, specialty dining over $180, additional Wi-Fi usage, gratuities and other miscellaneous costs are not included in the "Free At Sea" package.

Total cost: From $2,496 per person

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean's Serenade of the Seas in Seattle.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International's 2024 Alaska cruise season extends from April to September; there are 50 scheduled cruise-only and land-and-sea tours. Combined pre- and post-cruise tours last up to 13 nights, and cruise-only itineraries last between six to eight nights.

For the lowest fare in June, sail from Seward, Alaska, to Vancouver, British Columbia, on a seven-night cruise aboard Radiance of the Seas on June 7, 2024. The inside cabin fare starts at $438 per person. A balcony stateroom starts at $2,877 per person (to select your own room). This voyage cruises around Alaska's Hubbard Glacier, sails the Inside Passage in Canada and stops in Juneau, Skagway, Icy Strait Point and Ketchikan in Alaska.

The guaranteed balcony price at $2,877 is for a smaller stateroom; you can select a larger cabin for a higher cost. Taxes, fees and port expenses for the cruise are $389 per person.

The total cost for the balcony stateroom, port taxes and fees, and gratuities ($18 per person, per day) for this Royal Caribbean cruise is about $3,400 per person. This price does not include extras like specialty dining, shore excursions, beverage packages or Wi-Fi access, so you will need to budget extra to cover those expenses.

Total cost: From $3,392 per person

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Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney cruise ship in the Alaska fjords.

Kent Phillips | Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line has 19 five- to nine-night itineraries for the 2024 Alaska season, which runs from May to September.

The lowest price for a seven-night Alaska cruise in June with Disney Cruise Line is the June 3, 2024, voyage on Disney Wonder . The price for an inside cabin starts at approximately $3,472 for two guests, which includes taxes, fees and port expenses. In contrast, the fare for a guaranteed veranda stateroom starts at about $6,482 for two guests (including the additional fees); at this rate, Disney will select your specific cabin.

This round-trip sailing embarks from Vancouver, British Columbia. You'll begin your journey with a day at sea, then glacier viewing at Stikine Icecap in Alaska. Guests will stop in Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan in Alaska before another sea day and disembarkation in Vancouver.

Guests staying in regular stateroom accommodations will have gratuities of about $15 per person, per night. Once you add that in, you're looking at a cost of close to $6,600 per room (based on double occupancy) – or around $3,300 per person, if you split it. This price covers the cruise fare, taxes and port fees, the complimentary dining venues, onboard entertainment and gratuities for the crew.

You will need to budget extra for port adventures, beverages, and meals at adults-only venues like the Cadillac Lounge and Italian-themed Palo. The line offers Wi-Fi packages for an additional fee, which you can select once on board. You will also need to pay extra for alcoholic beverages, and there is an 18% gratuity added to bar and beverage services.

Total cost: From $6,587 per room (double occupancy)

Carnival Cruise Line

The Carnival Miracle in Alaska.

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line's 2024 Alaska season runs from April through September, and there are 16 itineraries that range from seven to 14 days.

The lowest Alaska fare in June is $814 per person for the June 4, 2024, voyage aboard Carnival Spirit . The seven-day round-trip itinerary departing from Seattle, Washington , includes one day at sea, cruising in Tracy Arm Fjord and stops in the Alaska port towns of Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, plus Victoria, British Columbia. A guaranteed balcony room without an obstructed view starts at $1,579 per person.

Taxes, fees and port expenses for this cruise are about $313 per person. If you'd like Wi-Fi access, you can purchase the Social Wi-Fi Plan starting at approximately $15 per person, per day. The higher level Value Wi-Fi Plan costs about $20 per person, per day, while the Premium Wi-Fi Plan comes in at around $21 per person, per day.

A nonalcoholic beverage package, Bottomless Bubbles, starts at around $10 per adult and around $7 per child each day. For nonalcoholic beverages and select alcoholic drinks (up to $20 each), purchase the Cheers package. It starts at about $60 per person, per day, but you can save 10% if you purchase the package before you sail. With Cheers, you'll also receive a discount on bottles of wine (plus other perks). Gratuities cost $16 per person, per day, in a regular stateroom. Restaurants like the Mexican-inspired BlueIguana Cantina and Guy's Burger Joint are complimentary.

When you add up the price of the balcony stateroom, port taxes and fees, the Value package for Wi-Fi access, the Cheers beverage package and gratuities, you're looking at around $2,600 per person for this Carnival Cruise Line itinerary. In addition to those expenses, you'll have to budget extra funds for shore excursions, specialty dining and some other amenities.

Total cost: From $2,564 per person

Silversea Cruises

The Silver Nova lit up at night.

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Silversea Cruises is offering 35 Alaska voyages between May and September 2024. The shortest itinerary is seven days and the longest itinerary is 16 days.

The lowest-priced Alaska cruise with Silversea in June is the June 27, 2024, seven-day sailing aboard Silver Muse from Vancouver, British Columbia, to Seward, Alaska. The intimate 596-guest ship will visit Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, Skagway and Valdez in Alaska – and complete two days of scenic cruising – before disembarking in Seward.

The all-inclusive port-to-port fare starts at $4,350 per person for a Classic Veranda Suite (the most affordable suite category with a balcony). For a room with a window instead of a balcony, book a Vista Suite starting at $3,350 per person.

Silversea's all-inclusive fares include luxurious suite accommodations, Champagne upon arrival, butler service and other perks. The pricing covers port taxes and fees; complimentary gourmet dining; all beverages, including Champagne, wine, beer and premium spirits; and gratuities. You'll also receive personalized, attentive service with a nearly one-to-one crew-to-guest ratio, and at least one included shore excursion in every port. Complimentary excursions in Skagway include a ride on the White Pass Scenic Railway, a visit to a sled dog and musher's camp and the Chilkoot Trail Hike & Float Adventure. Many of the included excursions with Silversea are quite costly on other lines.

There are no additional fees with the all-inclusive fare. However, you might incur additional personal expenses if you choose to order a fancy bottle of wine with dinner or book an extreme shore excursion adventure, like flightseeing over the glaciers.

Total cost: $4,550 per person (all-inclusive)

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

A suite balcony on the Regent Seven Seas Explorer.

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas' 22 Alaska cruises in 2024 sail between May and September and last seven to 14 nights.

The seven-night voyage on June 5, 2024, is the line's lowest-priced June sailing in Alaska, starting at $6,599 per person. Guests on Seven Seas Explorer will sail from Seward, Alaska, to Vancouver, British Columbia, with stops in Sitka, Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan in Alaska, plus two days of scenic cruising at the Inside Passage and Hubbard Glacier.

The 2-for-1 all-inclusive fares include a luxury veranda suite with a welcome bottle of Champagne and a fresh fruit arrangement. You'll also have an in-suite minibar, free valet laundry service and other upscale amenities. In addition, the fare includes a selection of free unlimited shore excursions; free unlimited beverages with fine wines and spirits; prepaid gratuities; complimentary specialty restaurants; unlimited Wi-Fi access and more.

There are no additional expenses on this Regent Seven Seas Cruises voyage – unless you choose a shore excursion that comes with an added cost or purchase a special bottle of wine at dinner.

Total cost: $6,599 per person (all-inclusive)

Bottom line

The low base fares for Alaska cruises on larger cruise lines may grab your attention, but as you click through to see what's included and make your booking, you'll find additional costs on nearly every page.

Before making a reservation, be sure to read the fine print and find out exactly what's included (and not included) in your cruise fare. You may find that booking an all-inclusive rate with a luxury line offers a better value – an option that you may never have considered unless you compared the total price of each cruise.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship, including the newest megaships, traditional masted sailing ships, river ships in Europe and a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica . She has cruised to Alaska and visited The Great Land in the summer, fall and winter, and journeyed to remote areas by bush plane above the Arctic Circle. She used her knowledge of Alaska cruises and extensive research to write this article. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

  • The Top Alaska Cruise Lines
  • The Top Luxury Alaska Cruises
  • The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises
  • The Top Northern Lights Alaska Cruises
  • Alaska Cruise Packing List

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Alaska Vacations

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  5. Palawan Itinerary: EPIC Things to Do In Palawan, Philippines (For ANY

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COMMENTS

  1. Palawan Travel Cost

    How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Palawan cost? A one week trip to Palawan usually costs around $0.00 (₱0.00) for one person and $0.00 (₱0.00) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing. A two week trip to Palawan on average costs around $0.00 (₱0.00) for one person and ...

  2. Palawan : Budget + Itinerary Guide for First-Timers

    5D / 4N Palawan Budget Expenses. Since this is a travel and tour itinerary provided by Aboex Travel & Tours, I can only provide you some details of expenses. This package costs around 15,000 php for each person. We were about 60 persons. Inclusions of the said expenses are the following: Round trip airfare from Cebu-Puerto Princesa

  3. How much does a trip to Palawan Cost?

    When it comes to exploring Palawan, travelers typically find themselves budgeting between $0 and $0 per day for solo adventures and $0 to $0 if you're traveling as a couple. Now, that's a broad range, but the typical trip, on average, is $0 (₱0) per person per day. This average cost covers sightseeing, accommodation, meals, and transportation ...

  4. Palawan Travel Guide 2024: Tips for an Unforgettable Trip

    Balabac Islands - A Secluded Oasis in the Sulu Sea. 5. Sabang - The Home of the Underground River. 6. Puerto Princesa - The Capital of Palawan. 7. San Vicente - Famous for Palawan's Longest Beach. 8. Southern Palawan - Travel off the Beaten Path.

  5. Palawan on a Budget: Tips for Affordable Travel and Adventures

    Use public transportation like jeepneys and tricycles to get around instead of hiring a private vehicle. Travel during the off-season to take advantage of lower rates and fewer crowds. Visit free or low-cost attractions like beaches, waterfalls, and hiking trails. Book tours and activities directly from the local operators instead of Viator.

  6. EL NIDO PALAWAN Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary & Budget

    In this case, you'll be spending only 3 days in El Nido and limiting your food expenses to only P150 per meal. Day 1: PUERTO PRINCESA TO EL NIDO. 07:20 am - Arrival at Puerto Princesa Airport. 08:00 am - Ride tricycle to San Jose Terminal, P60 (P120/2pax) 08:30 am - Buy food for the road, P120.

  7. Ultimate Guide to Palawan + 10 Day Itinerary

    Others. Motorbike rental: P500-600 ($10-12) per day. The costs of traveling to Palawan is reasonable. There are cheaper destinations elsewhere in the country, but the great thing about Palawan is that it offers incomparable beauty of nature that you can enjoy in modern comforts.

  8. Ultimate Guide to Palawan (Itinerary + Travel Tips)

    Fly into Coron. This is another possibility, though I suggest starting in Puerto Princesa and flying out of Coron. All flights from Manila to Palawan take roughly 90 minutes. By the way, there are no direct flights nor any boats connecting Palawan to Indonesia or Malaysia. You must always travel via Manila or Cebu City.

  9. EL NIDO, PALAWAN: Budget Travel Guide

    There are now Roro buses to El Nido every 2 hours from 6am-10pm. This means saving a lot of time (and a hotel night) because you can sleep in the bus on the way to El Nido. Fare is P380, travel time is at 6-7 hours. Shuttle service provider Fort Wally also carries passengers to El Nido every day at 5am, 7am, 9am, 11am and 1pm.

  10. Palawan island travel budget, Prices and Cost of living in 2024

    Daily budget: $ 124 for 2 ppl. $ 22 per person. $ 7.6 per person. $ 10 per person. Total budget: $ 2811 * (155554 ₱) * Estimated local budget for 2 people for 2 weeks. This represents an average across the country (budget may vary depending on the city or region visited).

  11. 7 Days in Palawan: My Itinerary and Travel Expenses

    Sixth Day Breakfast- P260.00 Lunch- P165.00 Unaccounted expenses: P1,240.00 ( market expenses, snacks, pasalubong, etc) Seventh Day Lunch- P330.00. Total Expenses for two including airfare: P21,506.00. Each of us spent P10, 753.00 each. If I add my guide fee for my Taraw cliff climb, my total expenses was P11,053.00. 42 Comments Share:

  12. Puerto Princesa, Palawan: Complete Budget and Travel Guide

    For tour expenses, expect to pay about the following price range per person: Puerto Princesa City Tour - Php 500 to 700. Ihawig Firefly Watching - Php 1,100 to 1,400. Honda Bay Island Hopping - Php 1,200 to 1300. Underground River Tour - Php 1,800 to 2,200.

  13. CORON PALAWAN TRAVEL GUIDE with Budget Itinerary

    This Coron itinerary assumes you will be staying at a guest house at P1000 per night (P500 per person). As always, please make the necessary adjustments to fit your flight schedule, duration of stay, or tour preferences. Day 1: ARRIVAL, DIY TOWN TOUR. 09:30 am - ETA Busuanga Airport, travel to Coron: P150.

  14. Planning The Ultimate Palawan Itinerary [1-2 Week Guides]

    El Nido: 5 nights ‍. Port Barton: 3 nights. Puerto Princesa: 2 nights. This 2 week Palawan itinerary will allow you to see all the sights on mainland Coron, and experience the beauty of Coron island and all the related sights. It will also allow you to do all 4 island hopping tours in El Nido, as well as a full day to see all the sights on El ...

  15. Palawan Tour Packages

    Yes, Palawan vacation packages can be booked for solo travelers, couples, families, or large groups. The pricing may vary depending on the number of people, especially if booking a Palawan tour package with airfare or a Palawan resort package, as the cost per person is usually cheaper the bigger the size of your group.

  16. PALAWAN TRAVEL GUIDE (5 days itinerary + expenses)

    After how many months of planning, Bardakads are finally complete and on vacation. We all decided to spend our Summer in Palawan so check out happened on the...

  17. Palawan Itinerary: Plan Your Perfect Philippines Getaway

    Most of the places we stayed at in Palawan cost us around 1,500 Philippine pesos (~ 28 USD) for a double room with a private bathroom and A/C. ... Our total budget ended up being 1,860 USD for 26 days of travel in Palawan including accommodation, three meals a day for two people, massage, water, transportation and three private boat tours (two ...

  18. Ultimate Travel Guide to Balabac, Palawan: The Last Paradise

    hub and i are planning (well, im the one planning actually.he simply tags along 🙂 ) to go to balabac before end of january(20-24) from our northern palawan trip. considering the cost to get there and get back to puerto, kailangang magtipid…i really hope we may makasabay kami para mas mraming maka share sa island hopping. thank you so much ...

  19. Island Hopping in Palawan Itinerary: How to Plan A Trip

    Island Hopping in Palawan Itinerary: 1 Week. Fly into Coron. Coron: 2 days ( Coron Ultimate Tour and one day of travel by boat or plane to El Nido) El Nido: 3 days ( Tour A, Tour C and one day of travel/relaxation). Puerto Princesa: 2 days ( Honda Bay and the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River ).

  20. What to Pack for Palawan Trip: 90 Items and a Downloadable Checklist

    These vitamins are what most medical professionals recommend we take daily. But by no means is this an exhaustive list. When thinking about what to pack for your Palawan trip, consider your unique circumstances and medications. First Aid Kit such as band-aid, anti-histamine, paracetamol.

  21. 5D4N Coron Itinerary and Expenses: Everything You Need to Know

    A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Coron Palawan + (5D4N Itinerary & Expenses) Home to one of the most picturesque spots in the Philippines, Coron is part of northern Palawan, where you can get to see the beautiful rock formations, dip into the world-class wreck diving spots, swim in its cleanest lakes and turquoise seawater, walk on its white ...

  22. From Manila to Palawan: A Guide to Philippines Trip Cost 2024

    On average, a round-trip ticket can cost anywhere from $500 to $800 USD. Accommodation: For budget hotels or hostels, the cost can range from 500 to 1,500 PHP or $10 to $30 USD per night. The total cost for 2 nights of accommodation can range from 1,000 to 3,000 PHP ($20 to $60 USD).

  23. How Much Does an Alaska Cruise Cost in 2024?

    Starting price (per person) The June 3, 2024, sailing on Norwegian Jewel is Norwegian Cruise Line 's least expensive Alaska cruise that month, starting at $449 per person for an inside cabin. In ...