Unveiling the Pearl of the Orient Seas
Known as the Pearl of the Orient Seas, Palawan is considered by many to be the last ecological frontier of the Philippines. This westernmost province comprises over 1,700 islands and islets, which boast lush rainforests, pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs and a treasure trove of exotic wildlife.
As a UNESCO World Heritage site and voted multiple times as the Best Island in the World by high-profile travel publications, Palawan casts an irresistible spell over adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Stepping foot on these islands feels like entering a lost paradise where time stands still. The laidback island vibes, mouthwatering cuisine and heartwarming hospitality of locals promise a soul-stirring getaway unlike any other.
Unveiling Palawan’s Iconic Destinations
Palawan comprises varied landscapes, ranging from the bustling capital city of Puerto Princesa to remote islands accessible only by boat. While all of Palawan deserves exploring, these iconic destinations warrant special mention:
Puerto Princesa
As the bustling provincial capital, Puerto Princesa serves as the gateway to Palawan’s natural wonders. The main attraction is the subterranean Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This protected area features spectacular limestone karst landscapes and the world’s longest navigable underground river stretching for 8.2 km. Puerto Princesa is also renowned for its crocodile farm, butterfly gardens, beaches and designated food trip areas spotlighting tasty local cuisine.
El Nido
This picture-perfect coastal town on Palawan’s northern reaches is famed for astonishing scenery including towering limestone cliffs, hidden beaches and lagoons with crystal-clear emerald waters. Island hopping tours allow visitors to explore sublime islands like Matinloc, Miniloc, Shimizu and Cadlao. The thriving tourism industry here caters to all budgets – from eco resorts to luxury island escapes.
Coron Island
Once an important World War II battle site, this island off the coast of Busuanga is now a world-class diving and snorkeling mecca. Twelve magnificent Japanese shipwrecks sunk during WWII attract expert divers, while vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life like barracuda and giant trevally entice snorkelers. Kayaking around iconic Lake Kayangan and cliff jumping at Barracuda Lake are favorite thrills for adventurers.
Port Barton
If you seek peace away from Palawan’s regular tourist trail, head to this sleepy fishing village on the west coast. Renowned for having some of Palawan’s most beautiful stretch of powdery white sand beaches, Port Barton captivates with palm-fringed shores, snorkeling opportunities and surrounding jungle-clad mountains. Stay in rustic beachfront cottages and enjoy a barefoot-luxury experience.
Embarking on Unforgettable Adventures
With Palawan spanning islands, beaches, mangroves, mountains and rainforests – adventures abound for thrill-seekers. Go diving, snorkeling, spelunking, trekking or simply beach hop to create picture-postcard memories.
Underwater Marvels
As a center of marine biodiversity, Palawan’s waters nurture over 500 species of coral and 2000 species of reef fish. Don scuba gear to drift between Technicolor coral gardens or spot green sea and hawksbill turtles around Honda Bay’s islands. Snorkel amidst batfish, clownfish and blue starfish swaying near Tabon Caves.
Island Hopping
No trip to Palawan is complete without an island-hopping excursion. Rent a bangka boat and voyage to El Nido’s magnificent Bacuit archipelago, famed for its jungle-clad islets, hidden coves and crystal-clear lagoons great for swimming and kayaking. Or try the Five Islands day trip from Port Barton to snorkel above giant clams and behold sea eagles taking flight.
Cave Explorations
Spelunking adventures abound within Palawan’s limestone landscapes riddled with caves. The 8km-long Ugong Rock in Puerto Princesa challenges experienced cavers but beginners can still enter its massive chambers. For cave swims, head to Port Barton’s Capari and Cudugnon Caves illuminated by magical sunlight beams. Archaeological treasures have been found within Tabon Caves – venture inside to imagine Palawan’s ancient human inhabitants.
Jungle Treks and Waterfalls
Lace-up your hiking boots to explore lush tropical rainforests cloaking jagged mountain ranges like Mount Mantalingahan. Follow jungle trails to marvel at waterfalls like Napsan Beach’s multi-tiered Nagtabon Falls. For birdwatching, spot Palawan hornbills and rare talking mynas amidst virgin forests around El Nido’s Taraw Cliff or Ugong Rock’s Canopy Walk.
Immerse in Culture
Beyond natural attractions, Palawan offers colorful cultural experiences through tribal music, dance and crafts. See hill tribe rituals during Kaamulan and T’nalak Festivals, appreciate handicrafts woven from buri palm and pandan leaves or feast on yummy native delicacies like tamilok (woodworm), croc sisig, sea slug salad and tabon-tabon fruit.
Unveiling Palawan’s Hidden Gems
While iconic spots attract most tourists, uncovering Palawan’s offbeat attractions lets you escape crowded hotspots. Wander away from mainstream destinations to uncover these hidden gems.
Tabon Caves
One of the country’s most important archaeological sites, Tabon Caves in Quezon municipality safeguards fossils and artifacts providing invaluable insight into early humans in Palawan. Their Tabon Man discovery proves Palawan was inhabited 50,000 years ago! Aside from their anthropological significance, these intriguing caves set in palm and mangrove forests promise a peaceful sojourn.
Kayangan Lake
This pristine freshwater lake tucked amidst craggy limestone cliffs on Coron Island rewards intrepid trekkers with an iconic island view. The crystal-clear waters invite brave souls for a quick dip but avoid overcrowding this ecologically fragile spot. Early morning or late afternoon visits beat daytime crowds.
Island Cove Hopping
Avoid mainstream El Nido to uncover remote islands like Dilumacad (Helicopter Island) off Culion town, famed for its imposing limestone and dive sites. Or organize farm and island visits across Linapacan town to gain insight into Palawan’s seaweed farming while reveling in private beach picnics.
Off-grid Encounters
Detach completely from civilization by overnighting in rustic cottages around Napsan Beach near El Nido, where solar-powered stays and beachfront bonfires under the stars promise digital detox. Or take a slow boat to the remote Cuyo Islands seldom visited by tourists. Stay with fisherfolk families to get acquainted with this tight-knit community’s livelihood and simple lifestyle amid postcard-perfect islands.
Planning Your Palawan Adventure
With countless attractions vying for your time, careful pre-trip planning ensures you optimize your Palawan holiday.
Getting There
Palawan’s airports in Puerto Princesa and Busuanga offer connectivity from major Philippine cities and Asian hubs. Joshua Bernard B. Olazo (Puerto Princesa) and Godofredo P. Airport (Cuyo) also operate flights. Access more remote coastal towns and islands by scheduled ferry or boat transfers from established routes. Minivans ply popular overland routes like El Nido to Puerto Princesa.
Places to Stay
Palawan offers varied accommodations – from international 5-star resorts like El Nido Resorts (Lagen and Miniloc) and Huma Island Resort in Busuanga to affordable beach stays located just steps from the sea like Greenviews Resort in Puerto Princesa. While basic lodges suffice for backpackers, glamping options like scenic dome tents create Insta-worthy escapes.
When to Go
The dry season between November to May is best for island hopping, diving, and outdoor activities – though peak season prices reflect tourist demand around Christmas and Chinese New Year. The green landscape and fewer tourists during the June to October rainy season offer budget respite despite potential bad weather disruptions.
Responsible Travel
Comply with environmental policies of eco resorts, rides and tours that manage visitor capacity and behavior to protect fragile ecosystems. Avoid polluting activities like collecting corals or feeding marine life. Support social enterprises helping local communities. Choose establishments using sustainable construction materials, renewable energy and eco-friendly waste practices.
Conclusion: A Paradise Worth Unveiling
Encompassing sun-kissed islands, virgin rainforests, vibrant reefs and exotic wildlife, Palawan remains the quintessential tropical dream for good reason. As a naturalist’s nirvana and adventurer’s playground set against some of the world’s most glorious seascapes, this Philippine province promises a travel experience that emotionally and visually overwhelms, bringing you closer to Mother Nature.
Whether you seek adrenaline-filled water adventures, close encounters with rare wildlife, digital detox amid off-grid isles or cultural forays into age-old tribal rituals – Palawan obliges. So embark on your own journey to unveil this archipelagic Eden’s hidden treasures – and discover a personal paradise in the process that you’ll yearn to revisit.
As the ancient proverb goes: “Ang hindi marunong lumingon sa pinanggalingan ay hindi makakarating sa paroroonan” – He who does not look back at his origin will not reach his destination. Lost paradises like Palawan need preservation through sustainable tourism for the journey to continue – both for us and future generations.
