The more than 7,000 islands that make up the Philippines are each endowed with special qualities. El Nido and Puerto Princesa, both in the western province of Palawan, are two places that every traveller should see. These cities perfectly capture the natural beauties that the Philippines has to offer with its towering limestone cliffs, immaculate beaches, abundant marine life, and lush jungles. In this article we talk about el nido puerto princesa and its travel guide
How to Get to Puerto Princesa and El Nido
Since Puerto Princesa has an international airport with frequent flights from Manila and Cebu, most guests arrive by plane. It is also connected to Busuanga, Coron’s entry port, via smaller turboprop aircraft. Shuttle vans travel up to El Nido, 5–6 hours north from Puerto Princesa. Expect a rough trip because the roads are currently being improved. If you’d rather not waste time, you can also take a tiny plane journey.
When to Leave
When it’s not raining as much, from November to May, is the ideal time to visit Palawan. The months of December through February are the busiest travel seasons, during which time hotel prices soar as well. March through May sees a decrease in travel expenses, but some businesses can be closed for summer maintenance. Less people travel during the June to October rainy season, but due to choppy seas and sporadic storms, activities may be restricted.
Top Activities in El Nido
1. Tours of Island Hopping – An island hopping excursion is a must-do when visiting El Nido. Discover hidden lagoons, go snorkelling over coral reefs, or simply unwind on isolated beaches against the dramatic backdrop of limestone cliffs and blue waters. A, B, C, and D tours transport you to several island groups.
2. Nacpan Beach – Take a leisurely stroll along this 4-kilometer twin beach, which is well-known for its beautiful scenery and fine white sand. One end is lined with cottages, while the other is undeveloped. From El Nido town, a tricycle ride takes forty-five minutes.
3. Big and Small Lagoons – Enter the serene emerald waters of the Big Lagoon by canoeing through a narrow opening surrounded by majestic limestone walls. Swim through a small crack to reach the Small Lagoon, a secret lake encircled by greenery. Tour A’s highlights are both.
4. Taraw Cliff View Deck: Located in El Nido’s Corong Corong neighbourhood, this viewpoint offers a stunning sunset view of Bacuit Bay. Sip a drink at the cliffside bar and enjoy the breathtaking view.
5. Nacpan Twin Beach: A trip to El Nido wouldn’t be complete without stopping at this stunning stretch of white sand beach that faces Bacuit Bay. By tricycle, it takes 45 minutes to get there from town. Enjoy the day lounging with breathtaking views or kayaking or snorkelling.
The Best Activities in Puerto Princesa
1. The Underground River This 8.2-kilometer underground river flows through the striking limestone scenery of the National Park and is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. To access the cave system by boat with a guided trip, you need a permit.
2. Island Hopping in Honda Bay – Only 20 minutes from the city, Honda Bay provides an additional array of island hopping experiences. The best places to visit are Pandan Island, where you can swim and dive amidst beautiful flora, and Starfish Island, where you can see hundreds of these colourful creatures.
3. Ugong Rock Adventures – Zip lining, spelunking, and kayaking are available at this enormous limestone formation that has underground rivers and caverns. For a unique eating experience, have lunch deep within the caverns.
4. Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Centre: Get up close and personal with some of the island’s most unusual creatures, including sea turtles, bear cats, bearded pigs, and porcupines. The facility cares for seized animals and gets them ready to be released back into their native environments.
5. Iwahig Firefly Observation – The Iwahig River’s mangrove trees are illuminated by thousands of fireflies each evening. Visitors can enjoy a lovely 30- to 40-minute river trip while observing fireflies on local bancas.
Where to Stay
El Nido and Puerto Princesa have a variety of lodging options. El Nido is known for its eco-resorts and beachside cottages, but the town also offers affordable and mid-range lodging options. During peak season, expect rates to be 20–30% higher. The most conveniently located hotels and inns in Puerto Princesa are in the mid-range and are situated downtown. Both affordable and luxurious solutions are available.
It’s best for first-time visitors to spend three full days in El Nido participating in island hopping trips, and then to use the remaining two days to explore the town’s beaches, waterfalls, and vistas. The main attractions in Puerto Princesa, especially the Underground River, which necessitates early morning journeys to Sabang harbour, should be explored in at least three days. If you wish to spend more time exploring Honda Bay or visiting wildlife sanctuaries farther out, add extra days.
Navigating
Since most of the town’s businesses are grouped along the shore, walking is the simplest and most pleasant method to travel around El Nido. You can reach neighbouring beaches like Nacpan or Las Cabanas by motorised tricycle. Attend scheduled El Nido day tours to visit distant locations like Secret Beach or Matinloc Shrine.
The region of Puerto Princesa is larger and includes both inland and island attractions. The city itself and neighbouring tourist destinations like Honda Bay and Ugong Rock are served by tricycles, jeepneys, and shuttle vans. Day trips manage transportation to more remote locations, such as the Underground River. Creating a personalised schedule is facilitated by renting a vehicle. Reputable businesses provide current models with insurance and round-the-clock support.
Setting a budget
In both locations, you may travel on a tight $30 per day provided you stay in fan rooms, eat just Filipino food, and don’t do too much. $100 per day allows you to indulge in high-end tours and resort stays, while $50 per day offers a more moderate degree of luxury and more options. Peak season prices may increase by 30–50%. Make reservations in advance and increase your spending at this time.
- Packing advice: Bring swimwear and rash guards for all the island hopping and water sports you plan to do.
- Protect marine life in these eco-destinations by wearing sunscreen that is gentle to reefs.
- Dry bag: On boat cruises, keep valuables dry.
- Medication for motion sickness – For choppy boat and land transfers
- Lightweight, rapidly drying clothing is perfect for the tropical weather.
- Waterproof camera: Capture breathtaking views of islands
Remaining Secure
In general, Palawan is secure, particularly in tourist regions. But take sensible safety measures as well, such as not out on nighttime strolls by yourself and hiding pricey jewellery and devices. Safe deposit valuables in the hotel. Choose officially approved tours that have qualified guides and life jackets for activities like island hopping. Observe environmental regulations, abstain from narcotics, and limit alcohol consumption.
It is recommended to obtain health insurance coverage, even for brief vacations, to protect against unforeseen illnesses, accidents, or injuries—especially in isolated places. Watch what you eat and drink to prevent gastrointestinal problems, just like you would at any new place. Carry medication for motion sickness and diarrhoea. Only sip water from bottles, and eat in spotless, respectable restaurants.
To sum up
Palawan justifiably deserves to be listed among the top travel destinations in the Philippines with its breathtaking seascapes at El Nido and its abundance of natural attractions in Puerto Princesa. This travel guide’s recommendations will assist in creating a schedule that highlights the greatest features of these two towns for a memorable island getaway. Make sure you have enough money, plan ahead, purchase travel insurance, and bring everything you’ll need. Above all, enjoy the relaxed island atmosphere, meet locals, and forge enduring memories in this idyllic tropical setting. I sincerely hope you find this “el nido puerto princesa travel guide” article helpful.
