Palawan island Philippines how to get there. Philippines Resorts

Useful information for tourists about the island of Palawan in the Philippines - geographical location, tourist infrastructure, map, architectural features and attractions.

Palawan is one of the islands of the Philippine archipelago, part of the province of the same name (together with neighboring islands). This largest province in the Philippines includes 1,780 islands! The length of Palawan is 425 km, the width is from 8.5 to 40 km. Total area – 14896 sq. km. The administrative center of the island is the city of Puerto Princesa - the only highly urbanized settlement on the island, named after the Spanish Princess Eulalia. In 1934, the world's largest pearl, called Lao Tzu, was found in Palawan - it weighs 6.5 kg!

Palawan is washed by two seas - the South China Sea in the northwest and the Sulu Sea in the southeast. Much of the island is unspoiled wilderness - mountains, jungles and vast mangrove forests. The central ridge divides the island into two parts, each with different climates. However, the overall average annual temperature ranges from 26 to 29ºC. The wet season lasts from May to December; the rest of the year the weather is dry and hot.

Palawan's population is incredibly diverse, with 87 different cultural and ethnic groups of Austronesian origin, mixed with Chinese and Spanish blood. According to the 2000 census, just over 755 thousand people live on the island. Visitors from Borneo, China and the Middle East have a huge influence on the culture of the indigenous people of Palawan. The main religion is Catholicism, but other Christian movements are also very common - Mormons, Adventists, Protestants, etc. Muslims live in the southern part of the island.

Palawan was once a transit island for Chinese traders heading to the Philippines. Most likely, the name of the island comes from the Chinese word “pao-lao-yu”, which means “a country with convenient bays”. In the 12th century, the Malays began to appear here, who were engaged in hunting, fishing and farming. And at the beginning of the 17th century, Spanish missionaries who arrived with the conquistadors poured into the island. Here they met desperate resistance from the indigenous population - people from the Moro tribe. Until the end of the 18th century, the Spaniards had to build their churches in close proximity to fortified forts and garrisons that could protect against raids by the warlike Moros. Only in 1898 did the subjects of the Spanish crown leave the island, and they were replaced by the United States, which established civilian rule here. In 1903, a Philippine province was formed, named after the main island - Palawan.

Today, Palawan is considered a natural reserve of world significance with its huge cliffs, impenetrable jungles, caves and underground rivers, a rich underwater world and exotic flora and fauna. Interestingly, in ancient times Palawan was part of the island of Kalimantan - and today the fauna of these islands is unusually similar. But Palawan differs significantly from other islands of the Philippine archipelago in its biological diversity.

Palawan is an ideal place for those who want to retire to the shores of a secluded bay, relax with the family or enjoy water sports. In 2007, National Geographic magazine named Palawan the best island in East and Southeast Asia and the 13th best island in the world.

Active recreation in Palawan is primarily diving. The island is a scuba diving paradise with its huge number of World War II shipwrecks and the Tubbataha and Basterra reefs located in the Sulu Sea. These reefs are included in the list of the best dive sites in the world.

The most popular resort in Palawan is the island of El Nido, which means “shelter, shelter” in Spanish. This is one of the most picturesque resorts of the archipelago of the same name. And this is truly a kind of refuge - for more than 250 million years, limestone rocks have protected the bays and lagoons of the island. You can also go diving or snorkeling on the nearby islands of Anilao, Puerto, Galera and others.

Undoubtedly, the wonderful island that we will now talk about is different from many other islands in the World, and you definitely won’t find anything like it. The island of Palawan is a series of small islands consisting of one archipelago. The islands of Palawan are located in the west of the tourist country. ( 11 photos)

The territory of all the islands of Palawan is about 15,000 km². The length of the islands of Palawan stretches for 425 km, and the width reaches 40 km. Palawan is the largest province of the Philippines. The center of Palawan is one of the most visited areas of Palawan, the city of Puerto Princesa. The archipelago consists of more than 40 small but amazingly different islands.

Palawan, first of all, is a unique natural property of all humanity, the fact is that the vibrant flora and fauna that we see on these islands cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Nature has tried to create a wonderful picturesque corner, and surrounded it on two sides by seas, from the south by the South China Sea, and the Sulu Sea, which separates Palawan from the middle part of the Philippines.

Lush and dense tropical forests here harmoniously combine with the rich aquatic world, and do not interfere at all with the ancient limestone rocks, which have protected the local islands like a shield for thousands of years. Small hills and mountain ranges that have grown out of the ground serve as a place for the existence of trees, which in some places literally hang over the water, and this creates the illusion of sharp rocks emerging directly from the water, decorated with lush crowns.

But what attracts tourists here so much, gathering people from all over the world on its beaches? The answer is simple, it is this effective nature that draws lovers of thrilling experiences here like a magnet. It so happens that Palawan today is one of the least known islands in the world, and as a result, one of the sparsely populated. Of course, there are residents here, but only in some parts of the island, and even then they live in their own world, and do not willingly succumb to the influences of civilization.

First of all, Palawan is great for tourists who love a secluded holiday with nature. Of course, there are expensive hotels with fun nightlife and other entertainment, but the main advantage of Palawan is the wonderful unearthly nature. The rich fauna includes numerous animals, and some of the species found here are found nowhere else except on this island.

The island also became a habitat for birds, of which there are more than 200 species on the island. The island also has a rich fauna of butterflies, there are more than 600 species. In order to preserve the unique flora and fauna on the island, the Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park was created, founded back in 1999. And in 2007, the national park was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The main component of the park is a unique underground river that flows directly into the sea. But before that, the river passes through stalactite and karst caves, the beauty of which cannot be expressed in words. The length of the river is 8 km, currently some part is equipped for tourists, and you can sit in a boat and enjoy all the beauties of the unusual caves.

As for the fauna of Palawan, we can talk about it forever; around the island there are amazing coral reefs with an area of ​​11 thousand sq. km. this is one third of all Philippine reefs. An unforgettable atmosphere reigns here; it’s not for nothing that divers all over the world have at least once heard about the rich diving experiences in these waters. The underwater world of Palawan is extremely rich, along with common marine animals of which there are quite a lot, very rare representatives of the fauna also live here, for example, you can find sea cows and ancient sea turtles, which may have met dinosaurs in their lifetime.

Boat trips are very well organized and are in great demand among tourists. You can either just take a ride on a luxury boat among the colorful islands, or dive under the water and see with your own eyes how rich and diverse the marine life of Palawan is. Crystal clear water will only accompany you on this dive. The purity of the local waters allows you to clearly see the bottom at a distance of up to 15 meters.

Actually, Palawan is not one island, but an entire archipelago and the largest Philippine province.
If not for the labyrinth of hundreds of pristine small islands with limestone cliffs and karst caves and coral reefs in exceptionally clear turquoise sea water, the eponymous main island of the Palawan archipelago would hardly have been named the best island holiday destination in East and Southeast Asia in 2007 ( according to the authoritative opinion of National Geographic Traveler magazine) and it would hardly have received 13th place among the best islands in the whole world. This is a fairly isolated and relatively sparsely populated, very elongated (420 km long, 8.5 to 40 km wide) island, the westernmost of the large Philippine islands. Most of the island is occupied by mountains, jungles and mangrove forests. It is not yet so “promoted” that there is nowhere for an apple to fall from the crowds of lovers of “a quiet, secluded holiday away from civilization.” In Palawan, the only urbanized settlement is the capital of Puerto Princesa, with an airport, a large supermarket, a local history museum (the exhibition is dedicated to the history, culture and traditions of the island, its inhabitants and their beliefs; archaeological finds, artifacts of pre-Spanish history and modern times are exhibited), a butterfly garden and a crocodile farm. The capital with its airport is located approximately in the middle of the long island. From here to the most interesting and significant sights of Palawan and to the best beaches (on the neighboring small islands of the archipelago) you still need to drive and/or sail tens of kilometers by boat. And getting to local attractions is an adventure in itself... For example, to the national park of the Saint-Paul Underground River (named after the mountain with the longest karst cave, since 1999 included in the UNESCO World Heritage List), flowing along the west coast and flowing into in, - about 80 km north of the capital. You first need to drive a couple of hours by minibus or jeep to the village of Sabang, then another four kilometers of off-road terrain need to be overcome using one of two trekking routes on foot through the jungle or by motorboat on the sea. In the Saint-Paul Underground River Park, you will be invited to travel underground in the semi-darkness in a type of local canoe. It’s scary, it’s interesting, the guide’s flashlight snatches out of the darkness either a group of bats on the arches or bizarre stalactites, but, to be honest, almost nothing is visible there. The second site on the UNESCO World Heritage List is the Tabon cave complex. These are more than two hundred caves, of which 29 have been explored and seven are open to tourists. Notable for the fact that in one of the caves, archaeologists discovered the oldest human remains in the Philippines (dating back to ca. 20 thousand years old, now stored in the National Museum in Manila). The caves are located 157 km south of Puerto Princesa: first you drive something to the village of Quezon, from where you again need to travel by motor boat.
Roads, transport and the organization of recreation in general in Palawan leave much to be desired, and yet all the costs are nothing compared to the overall impression of the clean, transparent sea and the bizarre labyrinth of islets with limestone cliffs overhanging the water, overgrown with trees.
On the map, Palawan stretches diagonally in a very long narrow strip between the Indonesian part of the island (Borneo) and the Philippine Mindoro. This is the western tip of the Philippine archipelago and belongs to the Luzon group of islands, although geologically it is a continuation of the island of Borneo (Kalimantan), with which it once formed a single whole.
The Palawan archipelago, that is, the main island itself and hundreds of small islets and rocks and rocks jutting out from the water, is “one of the most biologically diverse” (both land and sea) islands of the Philippines. Palawan is especially valued by its incredibly beautiful seascapes and landscapes. Palawan's crown jewels are undoubtedly the El Nido Marine Reserves to the north of the main island and the Tubbataha Reefs to the southeast.
El Nido (Spanish for “nest, hiding place, shelter”) is considered one of the most beautiful places in the Philippines. It consists of many small, mostly uninhabited islands in the northern part of the archipelago (resorts are equipped here only on the islands of Lagen and Minilo). The jungles of El Nido are home to more than a hundred species of birds, and the diversity of corals, tropical fish and other marine life numbers in the hundreds.
The bays and lagoons are protected by steep limestone cliffs (their geological age is approximately 250 million years), but they are easy to reach by canoe, catamaran or motorboat and temporarily have some beach to yourself. Ideal places for diving, snorkeling (snorkeling without scuba gear) and underwater photography, in particular, are the islands of Anilao, Puerto Galera, Balicasag; on o. Pagsanyan - waterfall and river rapids.
The magnificent coral reefs of the Tubbataha Marine National Park in the Sulu Sea are located about 150 km southeast of Puerto Princesa, near the islet of Cebu. This unique underwater park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993, occupies an area of ​​approx. 970 km 2 of which 100 km 2 of old coral reefs are open to divers. Tubbataha Reef, formed more than a thousand years ago along the Kagai ridge, consists mainly of two atolls - North and South, separated by an eight-kilometer strait, as well as the Jesse Beasley Reef. The reef system is home to more than 600 species of fish and 300 species of coral, including stingrays, spiny lobsters and manta rays. Hawksbill and green sea turtles come here to breed (hawksbill turtles are similar to them, but smaller). Hammerhead sharks, fox sharks and whale sharks live in the depths... To protect nature, a year-round, 24-hour ranger field station has been established on the North Island, thanks to whose efforts Tubbataha Reef National Park has received the status of an exemplary marine reserve.
Of the interesting marine reserves, it is worth mentioning the reserve about. Ursula, in the vicinity of which you can find such rare animals as dugongs - relatives of the extinct sea cow, as well as sea turtles and a wide variety of fish. Well, the most unusual reserve on the archipelago is the environmental protection zone of the island. Calauit: In 1976, 104 African animals of eight species were brought here from Kenya, and now there are already more than five hundred of them on the island!

general information

is the westernmost of the major islands in the Philippines.

Location: The island stretches from the island of Mindoro (Philippines) to the island of Kalimantan (Indonesia).
Origin: continental (broke off from mainland Southeast Asia at the end of the Paleozoic).

Administrative affiliation: Palawan Province, MIMAROPA Region (or Region IV-B), Philippines.

Administrative center: Puerto Princesa City - 222,673 people. (2010).

Languages: Tagalog (official) and others.

Ethnic composition: Austronesians with an admixture of Chinese and Spanish blood - the majority of the population; the Tagbanua, Pinalawan, Batak, Kenui, Kalamyan, Jama-Mapun, Molbog, Tausug and Samal-Banging peoples - 18% (a total of 87 cultural and national groups).

Religions: Roman Catholicism is the majority, there are Mormons, Seventh-day Adventists, Protestants, Muslims in the south (Indonesian influence).
Currency unit: Philippine Peso.

Major cities: Puerto Princesa.
Airport: in Puerto Princesa City (local airlines).

Neighboring territories: bordered by the South China Sea in the northwest and the Sulu Sea in the southeast. To the southwest lies the island of Borneo, part of Indonesia), to the northeast is the group of Philippine islands of Mindoro, etc.

Numbers

Palawan Island

Area: 12,188.6 km2.

Length: 425 km.

Width: from 8.5 to 40 km.

Population: about 900,000 people. (2010).

Population density: 73.8 people/km 2 .

Province of Palawan

Area of ​​the islands: 14,896 km 2 .

Coral reef area: OK. 11 thousand km 2.
Number of islands: 1780.

Population: 994,340 people. (2010).

Population density: 66.7 people/km 2 .

Climate and weather

Tropical, monsoon (in the zone of influence of the southwest monsoon).

The rainy season is from May to December, the rest of the time it is dry and hot.

The Central Mountain Range divides Palawan into two parts, each with a different climate.

Average annual temperature: from +26 to +29°С.

Average annual precipitation: 2000 mm.

Economy

Natural resources: natural gas and oil, deposits of nickel, copper, manganese and chromite.
Industry: mining, logging, food.
Agriculture: tropical crop production (rice, cereals, sugar cane, coconut palm), livestock breeding.

Fishing is the main occupation of local residents.
Traditional crafts: pearl fishing, collecting salangan nests for sale.

Service sector: transport, tourism.

Attractions

Natural

■Tabon Caves National Park(more than 200 caves) - the first people who came to the Philippines lived in these caves more than 20,000 years ago.

■Saint-Paul Submarine River National Park(an 8 km long river flows through a karst cave on the western bank and flows into the sea).

■Tubbataha Reefs National Marine Park.

■El Nido Marine Reserve.

Cultural-historical

■ Local History Museum of Palawan Island, butterfly garden, crocodile farm in the city of Puerto Princesa; Archaeological Museum of the Tabon Cave Complex.

Curious facts

■In 1962, during excavations in the Tabon caves on the island. Palawan archaeologists have discovered the skull of the so-called Tabon man, which dates from 22 to 24 thousand BC. e. - the oldest found in the Philippines. From about this date we can count the human history of the island.

■Most likely, the settlement of Palawan occurred from neighboring Borneo (Kalimantan) along the bridge between the islands that existed in ancient times. The influence of Borneo has always been felt on the island, especially in its southern part. Since the southern part of Palawan was subject to the Sultanate of Borneo for a long time, there were many Muslims there.

■Island from the X-XI centuries. Chinese traders were actively exploring. It is believed that the name Palawan itself comes from the Chinese “pao-lao-yu”, which means “a country with convenient harbours”. But it is possible that the first Chinese (“small and dark” who fled from the southern Chinese provinces from the Han conquest) arrived on the island in the middle of the 3rd century AD. and joined the Batak ethnic group.

■When the Sultan of Borneo sold his possessions to the Spaniards in 1749, they tried to ensure that Catholicism became the dominant religion on the island. And they succeeded in this, despite the resistance of Muslims and the Chinese diaspora. But then, when in 1898, after the Spanish-American War, Spain transferred the Philippines, Cuba, Guam and Puerto Rico to the United States of America for $20 million, Protestants, Mormons and Seventh-day Adventists appeared in Palawan...

Palawan is one of the most unusual islands in the Philippines, which allows you to truly feel unity with nature and is created for both lovers of a quiet family holiday and for fans of water sports.

Interesting Facts

Palawan is the largest island in the country and is a small archipelago of a large central island (Palawan itself) and many smaller islands.

Palawan has the status of a nature reserve of global importance due to its amazing nature.

One of the longest underground rivers in the world flows on the island.

One of the parts of the famous "James Bond" - "Tomorrow Never Dies" - was filmed in Palawan.

The largest pearl in the world was found here, weighing 24 kg.

Famous ocean explorer Jacques Cousteau believed that Palawan had the most magnificent seascapes in the world.

You should know it

Getting to Palawan There are two ways: by ferry and by plane, which depart from Manila to the capital of Palawan - Puerto Princesa. But the ferry is, firstly, a method of transportation for people with strong nerves or complete romantics. Such movement may also be justified by the presence of large cargo. The journey takes 2.5 days. An airplane is faster, more pleasant and more expensive at just 200-300 rubles.

Concerning weather conditions , then the best time to travel to the Philippines to Palawan is from December to May, because the rest of the time you may experience prolonged downpours. The temperature in the dry season is quite comfortable - 26-29 0 C.

Beaches of Palawan

If you want to feel like Robinson Crusoe stranded on a desert island, then Palawan is the right choice. One of the favorite pastimes of tourists is traveling by boat to one of the 45 nearby uninhabited islands. The deserted beaches that are hidden by the coastal cliffs will amaze you after the mountainous terrain of Palawan itself.

The most ecological resort in Palawan - Apulit Island - will not leave you indifferent, thanks to its beaches with white sand, clear water and amazing representatives of flora and fauna: more than 1,500 species of plants, most of which are from the orchid family, cat bear, pangolin (giant salamander).

Cat bear (or red panda)

Diving and snorkeling enthusiasts will find happiness in Honda Bay. In general, diving in Palawan is rightfully considered the best in the world, and Tubbataha Reef is recognized as a UNESCO world heritage site. For your attention - a variety of corals, ocean and coral fish, shellfish.

But the resort and reserve area of ​​El Nido, which consists of many islands, most often uninhabited, deserves special attention. And you have the wonderful opportunity to spend the whole day on the beach, which is only yours, enjoying the sun, ocean and swimming in the lagoons.

Cultural and entertainment program

Palawan is a unique nature reserve, so all the entertainment and attractions of this island are directly related to its nature.

One of the popular activities here is going down to the wrecks of the Second World War, which can be found near islands such as Coron, Busuanga, Kalamian.

It is worth mentioning the El Nido Islands again. Ursula Island is home to a fish and wildlife sanctuary, and Pagsanyan has Pagsanyan Falls and stunning river rapids. The El Nido resort area is centered on two islands: Miniloc, where there are houses on stilts in the water and a simple fishing village, and Lagen, which boasts the title of the best resort in Palawan.

If you have time, be sure to visit the Palawan Museum, the Butterfly Farm, the Original Jail Without Walls, and the Crocodile Institute, all in Puerto Princesa.

The huge complex of 200 Tabon caves is interesting from an archaeological point of view: the remains of human ancestors were found here, dating back to the 24th millennium BC.

Another interesting place that deserves your attention is the old capital of Palawan - Taytay Island. Here you will discover the ruins of the largest Spanish fleet, the fort's chapel and bring back original souvenirs, presented in abundance on the island.

Amazing mountains, impenetrable jungles, a rich underwater world and pristine nature - isn’t this the best way to take a break from the everyday bustle of the concrete jungle?

The second is located in the village of El Nido, which is the most beautiful place on the island.

Foreign tourists can reach the archipelago by landing at one of the Philippine International Airports located in the capital city, Kalibo on Boracay or Iloilo on Panay.

• The Ro Ro carrier connects the Malaysian port with the southern part of the island (Bataraza). The ferry distance is only 190 km, the journey takes 5 hours.

In addition to ferries by sea, you can also get to Palawan by high-speed or regular boat; this can be done, for example, from the island of Mindoro (San Jose), from where you can get to Coron (Busuanga) for 1,200 pesos and 6 hours. And already in Coron you can take a boat to El Nido (1280 pesos and 7 hours) or a speedboat (1760 pesos and 3.5 hours).

Transport in Palawan

To get around Palawan, you can take buses or minibuses, tricycles and jeepneys.

As a rule, traffic on the island comes to life as early as 6 am, but you won’t find an exact schedule of routes for this or that type of transport here. Departure occurs as the cabin fills up.

Buses and minivans depart from Puerto Princesa to the south several times throughout the day. A jeepney ride costs 150 pesos per passenger.

As for the tricycle, you can make a separate trip on it to your destination, the price for a short route is 30 pesos. Or you can rent a similar vehicle, then the tariff will be hourly, at the rate of 100 pesos for every 60 minutes.

Rent a car or bike

As for a motorcycle or scooter, it is better to choose models with wide wheels; the ride will be more comfortable. The cost depends on the chosen model and the duration of the trip.

For example, a 24-hour rental of a Yamaha Mio Aerox motorcycle will cost from $18.

Renting a car will, of course, cost more. At the same time, you can rent a car for personal use, that is, drive it yourself or resort to the services of a driver.

The cost of a small car starts from $28 per day, and for a car with larger capacity and power you will have to pay from $40. Driver services are paid additionally, usually 1000 pesos per day.

Where to live in Palawan: areas

The choice of accommodation options on the island is quite wide, as is the range of prices. For example, staying in a 3-star hotel room in El Nido will cost about $50, while the price per night at the 4-star Blue Palawan Beach Club tends to be $100.

There are also budget options on the island, where you will have to pay only $10 for a room of 8 sq.m. Example - Alexzus Backpackers Travel Lodge 15 minutes from the beach in El Nido.

When choosing an accommodation option, you should know the features of the areas of the island of Palawan:

Puerto Princesa

The city rightfully bears the title of one of the most beautiful in the Philippines. It is famous for its attractions: the underground river of the same name, a cathedral with a 200-year history, as well as park complexes - Mendoza Park and Princess Eulalia Park.

The surroundings of the administrative center are also interesting. On the one hand, there is an amazingly beautiful bay, this is an excellent place for evening promenades. On the other side there is a national park and a wooded part. A walk through the forest is an opportunity to see picturesque waterfalls, as well as take pictures of the city and bay from above by climbing a low mountain.

El Nido

One of the most picturesque places on earth and the most remarkable area of ​​Palawan. Here in Bakuit Bay there are many islands scattered, it is possible to get into such coves and bays where you get the full feeling that the tourist is the first person to set foot on the shore.

Coast of El Nido from the air:

El Nido is separated from the administrative center by 260 km; the town is located in the northern part of the island and is quite compact, its width is only 300 m.

It is interesting that the tiny village, which El Nido has long been, came to the attention of tourists not so long ago, in 1979. It was then that a ship sank off the local shores and scuba divers who arrived at the wreck site discovered the unique beauty of the surrounding area.

The first diving site was built here in 1983.

Coron

This is the province of Palawan, which includes the island of the same name, part of the island of Busuanga, as well as another 50 tiny islands in the area.

The city infrastructure is characterized by weak development of the banking sector and terminal network, but a good selection of restaurants and cafes.

Coron is on one side a national park and on the other a popular tourist destination. Ordinary tourists and divers are attracted by the very beautiful beaches, clear sea, and salt lakes surrounded by rocks. Diving enthusiasts will certainly appreciate the sunken ships and underwater grottoes.

It is worth knowing that Corona has some of the highest prices, and cash payments are predominantly accepted.

Napsan

The territory is located only 50 km to the west from the administrative center. However, here you can feel a complete separation from civilization: in Napsan there is no Internet and in some places simple telephone connections, electricity supply for only 3 hours a day (from 19 to 22 hours), an almost complete absence of asphalt roads and a lot of corners full of secrets and interesting to the traveler.

Port Barton

The picturesque town, located 145 km from the administrative center of the island, should be of interest primarily to those who want to relax on a budget and in relative privacy.

There is no great service here, buses run much less often than, for example, in El Nido. However, the plus is the feeling of the pristine beauty of the island, untouched by the tourist flow.

Sabang

This is a small town with the sea on one side and a mountain range on the other. The main street runs through the entire village and leads directly to the port, from where the ships depart. means to the local underwater river.

There are no power grids here. Each house has its own generator, so electricity is supplied literally for 3-4 hours in the evening.

The city is attractive with two cozy beaches located to the right of the pier. The first is hotels and bungalows, the second is wilder and less crowded.

There are cafeterias on the beaches, there is everything you need for a comfortable stay.

San Vincente

The small village is located almost equidistant from Puerto Princesa and El Nido and is attractive for its untouched nature. Every year, however, the tourist flow here is increasing, the authorities are even laying a concrete road.

It is worth knowing that there are no banks, terminals, ATMs, just as there are no expensive hotels, medical institutions and similar amenities.

What to see in Palawan

In addition to the fact that each area described above in itself deserves the attention of a tourist, I would like to note the main attractions of the island, including:

Puerto Princesa Underground River

This river is the longest among the underground ones, its length is 8 km, and you can walk along it admiring a series of unique natural cave labyrinths.

It is worth knowing that the route along the river for tourists is only 1 km, and the journey lasts 45 minutes.

To enter the park, you must obtain a permit, paying about 4 euros for it; an additional environmental fee is paid - up to 1 euro.

You can enter the national park daily from 8:30 to 15:30. However, entry restrictions may apply due to inclement weather conditions.

It is more convenient to see the underground river as part of a tourist group. The cost per person will be about 22 euros, there are no additional expenses, this amount will include a transfer to the park itself and back, which means the problem of finding public transport is eliminated.

Miniloc Island

Located in Bakit Bay, tourists are attracted by two bays - the Big and Small Lagoons.

You can get to the island by speedboat, but access to the lagoons is much more exotic. You can get to Bolshaya on small boats through a narrow passage. And access to the Small Lagoon is through a small hole in the rock.

Cayoya Island or Exotic Island

This place is popular among the Filipinos themselves, the residents of Palawan. The island is ideal for families with children. The coastline, in addition to snow-white sand and clear water, is distinguished by a gentle slope into the sea.

There are gazebos for safe shelter from the scorching sun.

Sand Bar Island

The island, completely covered with sand, is interesting because at high tide it is completely submerged under water. However, it is the time of high tide that is the best for exploring this attraction and comfortable swimming.

Important! Hiking around the island must be done in special shoes, as there is a high risk of bumping into corals or slipping on algae.

You can get to Sand Bar by using the boat services of the Princesa Garden Hotel, or by wading from Rizal Av. The path is not long - a little more than half a kilometer.

Matinloc Island

Both diving enthusiasts and connoisseurs of a relaxing beach holiday flock here.

The first are attracted here by the diverse coral gardens, where various species of marine life have found refuge.

For a lazy holiday, it is better to choose the east coast, where the most beautiful sandy beaches are.

You can usually get here as part of a tour.

Waterfalls and caves

1. Bigahoo Falls, accessible by boat from Port Barton in 20 minutes;
2. Mangapin Waterfall - located 100 km from the administrative center, the road is unpaved, suitable for those who like hiking or extreme bike riding. Important! During the dry season, the reservoir dries up.
3. El Nido Falls - in addition to the opportunity to take a dip in the hot spring, the waterfall serves as a wonderful contrast with its cool spray. It is more convenient to get there by renting a bike, which will cost 500 pesos. The journey will take approximately 40-50 minutes.
4. Cave Il - located 45 minutes from El Nido, is interesting because the remains of people, animals and utensils were found in it, proving that a settlement existed here more than 12 thousand years ago.
5. Estrella Falls. You can get to the waterfall as part of a tour or on your own. The road is of very decent quality. There are equipped parking lots, entrance to the waterfall is paid, 20 pesos. There are gazebos and a barbecue area on site. Important! You must bring your own food for a picnic. And you should be prepared for the fact that some of them will be begged from tourists by very annoying monkeys and squirrels living near the reservoir.
6. Salakot waterfall. To the reservoir located not so far from Puerto Princesa (46 km), the path is very difficult, the reason is that most of the road is difficult-to-pass gravel. That is why there are few tourists here and there is a complete lack of infrastructure.
7. Lion Cave. The natural attraction received this name because at the entrance there is a stalagmite, the shape of which resembles a sitting lion. The road from Sabang takes about 30 minutes, and the journey through the cave itself takes no more than an hour.

What else to see in Palawan

1. The Santa Isabel fortress, located in the town of Tai-Tai, has a 300-year history, while the building is in almost its original form and serves as a venue for various services. Open to the public from Monday to Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., entrance fee: adults - 500 pesos, children under 12 years old - 250 pesos.
2. The Chinese Buddha Temple near Honda Bay is an opportunity to see the decoration of the temple and visit the many islets in the bay itself.
3. The crocodile farm in Puerto Princesa is located on the territory of the center for the protection and conservation of wild reptiles; in addition to aquariums, there is a museum here. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket office at the entrance; tours of the farm take place as part of a group; tours begin every half hour.
4. The Balsahan natural pool is a crystal clear river with equipped places for recreation and parking, located on the territory of the island’s correctional colony, a place where prisoners live quite freely, making souvenirs. On weekends there are many vacationers from local residents.
5. Bay Walk or the city promenade of Puerto Princesa - restaurants, all kinds of shows, celebrations and festivals - that's what makes this place popular when the evening comes. During the day, you can visit the nearby Church of the Immaculate Conception or walk through the Plaza Cuartel park area.

Things to do in Palawan

Activities are quite popular in Palawan. After all, it was divers who originally discovered this picturesque place.

1. Snorkeling - even simple snorkeling will be an exciting journey into the world of the unique biodiversity of the local sea;
2. Watching whale sharks. You can go on an excursion to these terrifying sea creatures from Puerto Princesa, and you can not only see them, but also swim with them. There is no need to be afraid, since the 15-ton shark feeds exclusively on plankton and small fish. The excursion is organized from mid-spring to mid-autumn.
3. Kiting - from the end of autumn to the end of winter you can try your hand at kiting, the best place for this is located near the airport, there are inexpensive rooms, equipment rental is available, the instructors speak English.
4. Diving. The best places are the reefs of Tubbataha, Apo, Busuanga. The first of them is under the protection of Unesco, and Apo claims to be included in this list.

Beaches of Palawan

• Yoga - a private beach, open to tourists, located in El Nido, distinctive features - silence and uncrowded, an excellent place for meditation.
• Long Beach is located in San Vicente, its length is 14 km. The coastline is divided in two by a large rock, one of the parts is 8 km of snow-white sand. There are small retail outlets here, selling mainly drinks.
• Marimemeg. Located 5 km from the town of El Nido, you can get there by tricycle for 150 pesos, from the road to the coast you will have to walk about 300 meters. The beach is considered the best in El Nido. There is a bar here, freshly squeezed juices are served, and you can rent a kayak.
• Korong Beach - this 2-kilometer shallow water is unlikely to interest lovers of swimming, but children will be delighted to sit in the warm water and dig in the snow-white sand. It is very beautiful here at sunset.
• Papaya is a private beach open to tourists, accessible by boat from Corong. It is worth considering that at the beginning of autumn the coastal strip may be covered with algae.
• Seven Commandos is an ideal coastline, comfortable for swimming at low tides. Tourists are brought here in organized groups as part of a tour of El Nido Bay. You can get here on your own by renting a kayak on Corong.
• Ipil – wild beach 2 km. from El Nido, you can get here by kayak or rowing boat. There is no infrastructure.
• White Beach, the name comes from the sand, which is of a very light shade. You can get to the beach in about an hour from the center of Puerto Princesa; you should take food and drinks with you; you won’t be able to buy it in the area.
• Pristine Beach is a paid beach with an equipped picnic area, gazebos, a very popular place among islanders, so you shouldn’t go here on weekends when it’s very crowded. The price of a visit depends on age and time of day. So in the evening a ticket will cost 40 pesos, versus 25 during the day.

The beaches described are not all that are on the territory of Palawan. It is worth knowing that you need to be careful when going to an unknown shore, as there are beaches that carry great danger, for example, Lapus - a private beach between Corong and Papaya, which is guarded by large dogs, ready to attack anyone who tries to land on the shore. Other coasts, like B.M., may disappoint with the lack of cleanliness, and this is with an entrance fee.

What else you should know about holidays in Palawan

Money and currency exchange

There will be a chance to withdraw money from a bank card only in Puerto Princesa; even in El Nido, popular among tourists, it is better to have cash with you, since there is only one ATM here, and it gives out 10,00 pesos per withdrawal.

There is an ATM at the airport of the administrative center, as well as in Roxas.

You can exchange currency at banks and exchange offices in the Robinson shopping center, as well as at the airport. However, in the latter case, the rate is the least favorable.

The main products from which local dishes are prepared are:

• Meat, most often pork, which is used for barbecuing, meat sticks, and casseroles. The price of one meat stick in the market is 15 pesos.
• Chicken is popular among locals; you can buy grilled chicken in supermarkets.
• Vegetables - most often they are brought from China, what is grown on the island is sweet potatoes, Asian cabbage, cucumbers.
• The fruit, the most common of which is mango, costs about 90 pesos per kilo.

If you want to try a local dessert, then you should pay attention to tupig, it contains rice, coconut milk, coconut flakes, and sugar. The boiled ingredients are formed into a sausage and decorated with a palm leaf; the taste is reminiscent of cheesecakes.

Palawan is a unique, picturesque place, an island whose pristine beauty is mesmerizing. Getting here is not easy, but the shores and underwater world of Palawan are worth seeing.