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Best Palawan Island Tours & Excursions: A Local’s Ultimate Travel Guide
After spending three months backpacking across Palawan, from the chaotic charm of Puerto Princesa to the raw wilderness of Coron, I have done the hard work for you. I have taken the crowded tours, the private boats, and the hidden backdoor routes.
This is your complete visitor’s guide to Palawan’s tours and excursions, packed with personal insights, must know tips, and honest reviews.
Because we combine local knowledge with traveler reviews. Whether you are searching for the best Underground River tour or wondering which El Nido itinerary is worth your money, you have found the right resource.
Jump directly to details: Top Tours | When to Go | Typical Costs | Itineraries | Safety Tips | FAQ
Key Takeaways for Your Palawan Adventure
- Best overall tour for first timers: El Nido Tour A (the lagoons) or Coron Tour B (beaches and wrecks).
- Budget wisely. Expect to pay between $20 to $60 per group tour. Private tours cost $100 to $200. Always check GetYourGuide or Viator for current pricing as of this year.
- Dry season (November to May) is mandatory for clear lagoon access. Avoid July to September if you want to see the famous limestone cliffs without gray skies.
- Hidden gem: Port Barton. It offers a less crowded island hopping experience than El Nido. Our team from WakaAbuja considers it the traveler’s choice for peace.
- Accessibility: Fly into Puerto Princesa (PPS) or Busuanga (USU for Coron). Use Kayak to compare flight routes.
What is Palawan Known For?
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Palawan is not just one island; it is a province of 1,780 islands. It is famous for the Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. But beyond that, it holds the Bacuit Archipelago in El Nido, the wreck diving capital of Coron, and the pristine sandbars of San Vicente.
I remember sitting on a boat near Miniloc Island, surrounded by karst cliffs so steep they looked man made. That moment, I understood why Condé Nast Traveler repeatedly votes Palawan the best island in the world.
Top 10 Palawan Tours & Excursions Ranked by Reviews
Based on thousands of TripAdvisor reviews and my personal testing, here are the tours you should book and the ones you can skip.
1. Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour
This is the flagship tour. You take a boat from Sabang Beach, ride through a cave with a 8 kilometer river, and see limestone formations millions of years old.
Per official sources, the cave is home to over 700,000 swiftlets. My advice: Book this through a licensed operator like those listed on TripAdvisor. The tour includes lunch and a stop at Sabang’s mangrove forest. Current price as of early this year: $30 to $45 per person including van transfers.
My honest take: “On my last trip, I stumbled upon the cave entrance at low tide and saw monitor lizards swimming near the shore. It changed how I see eco tourism. The cave is impressive, but the journey through the jungle to get there is equally magical.”
Pros
- UNESCO World Heritage status makes it a bucket list item
- Excellent guides who explain the geology and bats
- Inclusive lunch is usually good seafood
Cons
- Very crowded during peak season (March to May)
- Long wait times if you do not book in advance
- The cave interior can feel claustrophobic for some
2. El Nido Tour A: The Lagoons
This is the most popular El Nido tour. You visit Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and Secret Lagoon. The highlight is kayaking through the turquoise waters of Big Lagoon.
According to local guides, Tour A accounts for 60 percent of all El Nido island hopping. Book through GetYourGuide for guaranteed departure. Cost ranges from $20 to $25.
3. El Nido Tour C: Hidden Beaches and Shrines
Tour C is for the adventurer. It includes Hidden Beach mentioned in our beach guide, Matinloc Shrine, and Star Beach. The boat ride is rougher, but the snorkeling is superior.
I saw a sea turtle within five minutes of jumping off the boat. Per TripAdvisor reviews, Tour C is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars for advanced swimmers.
4. Coron Ultimate Tour: Kayangan Lake and Twin Lagoon
Kayangan Lake is often photographed as the cleanest lake in the Philippines. You climb 200 steps for the view. The water is a mix of fresh and saltwater.
Twin Lagoon requires swimming through a small crevice at low tide. Prices: $25 to $35 via local operators. Check Viator for combo packages including lunch.
5. Coron Reef and Wreck Tour (Tour B)
This tour focuses on WWII shipwrecks. You snorkel above the Skeleton Wreck and Lusong Gunboat. The coral growth on these wrecks is phenomenal.
For certified divers, this is a must. For snorkelers, the visibility ranges from 10 to 30 meters depending on the weather. Do not attempt during storms.
6. Port Barton Island Hopping: The Quiet Alternative
Port Barton is a sleepy village between Puerto Princesa and El Nido. The island hopping here visits Exotic Beach, German Island, and Turtle Sanctuary.
I spent a week here simply because it was so relaxed. The tours cost $15 to $20. Our team at WakaAbuja recommends this for families who hate crowds.
7. Honda Bay Island Hopping (Puerto Princesa)
Close to the city center, Honda Bay offers Luli Island, Cowrie Island, and Starfish Island. It is an easy day trip if you only have 24 hours in Puerto Princesa.
The water is not as clear as El Nido, but the accessibility is excellent. Book via Expedia for hotel pickups.
8. Firefly Watching Tour (Iwahig River)
This is an evening tour. You ride a silent boat through a mangrove forest while thousands of fireflies blink in synchronization. It sounds touristy, but I found it genuinely emotional. Pe
r environmental reports, Palawan has some of the highest firefly concentrations in Southeast Asia. Price: $15.
9. Calauit Safari and Busuanga Island Tour
Calauit is a wildlife sanctuary where African animals like giraffes and zebras were introduced in the 1970s. It is controversial but unique.
The safari is a two hour drive from Coron town. Combine it with the Black Island tour for a full day. Check official social media pages for animal welfare updates.
10. Private Sunset Cruise in El Nido Bay
For honeymooners or special occasions, rent a private traditional paraw boat. You get wine, snacks, and a two hour cruise around the bay. Prices start at $80 for two people. Book via Vrbo experiences or local cooperatives.
When to Go: Weather, Crowds, and Cheapest Months
Palawan has two seasons. The dry season from November to May is the best time for island hopping.
The wet season from June to October brings rough seas. Many ferry services cancel during typhoons.
Weather Breakdown and My Insights
- Peak Season (December to February): Perfect 28°C to 30°C temperatures. Minimal rain. Hotel prices increase by 30 percent. Book Booking.com three months in advance.
- Shoulder Season (March to May): Hot and dry. Temperatures reach 35°C. This is ideal for sunbathing but the heat makes hiking difficult. Cheaper than peak but still busy during Easter week.
- Low Season (June to October): Hotel discounts up to 40 percent via Agoda. However, tours cancel frequently. I visited once in August and got stranded on a beach for six hours due to a sudden storm.
Cheapest time to visit: September to October. Flights from Manila to Puerto Princesa can drop to $30 one way. But please check weather warnings from PAGASA (the official meteorological agency) before booking.
How to Get to Palawan
Fly into Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS) or Francisco B. Reyes Airport (USU) in Coron. Direct flights operate from Manila, Cebu, and Davao. Use Kayak to find the cheapest airfare. From Manila, flight time is 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Alternative: Ferry from Manila to Puerto Princesa takes 30 hours. I do not recommend this unless you have sea legs. From Coron to El Nido, there is a 4 hour ferry via Montenegro Lines. Check official Facebook pages for schedules as they change weekly.
Getting Around Palawan
Tricycles are the main mode of transport within towns. Short trips cost $1 to $2. For longer distances like El Nido to Port Barton, shared vans cost $10 to $15 per person. Rent a scooter for $8 to $12 per day if you have an International Driver’s Permit.
I rented a scooter in El Nido and found hidden waterfalls that no tour goes to. Be careful on the rough roads to Nacpan; rain turns them into mud pits.
Typical Costs, Budgets, and Money Saving Tips
Budget Traveler: $30 to $50 per day
Hostel bed: $10. Street meals: $3 each. Shared tours: $20. Public transport: $5. Total for 7 days: $280.
Mid Range Traveler: $70 to $120 per day
Private room on Agoda: $35. Mixed tours plus private transfers: $50. Nice dinners: $15. 7 days: $700.
Luxury Traveler: $150 to $250 per day
Resort on Vrbo: $100. Private boat tours: $120 per day. Fine dining: $30. 7 days: $1,500.
Money saving tips: Buy your own snorkel gear to avoid rental fees. Share tricycles with other travelers.
Eat at local carinderias (small eateries) where a meal costs $2. Book tours directly from the town square instead of hotels to skip a 20 percent markup. But always ensure the operator is licensed.
Best Places to Stay: Accommodation Options by Location
The traveler’s choice for a vacation stay depends on your style. El Nido has the scenery but is busy. Coron has the wrecks and lakes. Port Barton has the peace.
El Nido (Best for Scenery)
Stay in Corong Corong for sunset views. Budget: Spin Designer Hostel ($15). Mid: Huni Lio Resort ($100). Check Booking.com for current availability.
Coron (Best for Diving)
Stay near the town proper for easy access to the pier. Recommended: Coron Soleil Express ($60).
Port Barton (Best for Families)
Quiet, shallow waters. Resorts like Summer Homes Port Barton ($40) offer direct beach access. Book via Expedia for weekend deals.
Suggested Itineraries to Help You Plan
5 Day Palawan Highlights (Puerto Princesa + El Nido)
Day 1: Arrive Puerto Princesa, Underground River tour. Day 2: Van to El Nido (5 hours). Day 3: Tour A. Day 4: Tour C. Day 5: Return to Puerto Princesa, depart.
7 Day Deep Dive (Coron + El Nido via Ferry)
Day 1-3: Coron wrecks and lakes. Day 4: 4 hour ferry to El Nido. Day 5-6: Tours A and C. Day 7: Nacpan beach. This is the itinerary I recommend to friends from Abuja.
10 Day Slow Travel (Add Port Barton)
Split your time: 3 days Port Barton, 4 days El Nido, 3 days Coron. This avoids burnout and gives you the hidden gem experience.
Things to See and Do Beyond Island Hopping
Palawan is not just boats. It has museums, arts, outdoors, and nightlife.
Museums and Arts
- Palawan Heritage Center in Puerto Princesa: free entry, local history exhibits.
- Baler View Arts and Crafts: handmade beadwork by indigenous communities.
- Libis Galeri in El Nido: rotating exhibits of local painters.
Outdoors and Adventure
- Mt. Tapyas climb in Coron: 700 steps, free, best at sunrise.
- Nagkalit Kalit Falls in El Nido: a 45 minute jungle trek. Hire a local guide for $10.
- Estrella Falls in Puerto Princesa: a less crowded waterfall with natural pools.
Nightlife and Theater
- El Nido: Pukka Bar for live acoustic music. Sielda Bar for fire dancing on the beach.
- Coron: Bacau Bay Resort has a cultural dance show every Friday.
- Puerto Princesa: Rizal Avenue has live bands every weekend. Check local Facebook events for schedules.
Family Friendly Hidden Gems
If you are traveling with children, avoid the rough seas of Tour C. Instead, take the private lagoon tour in Port Barton where the water is always calm.
The Crocodile Farm in Puerto Princesa is educational and cheap ($3 entry). For teenagers, the canopy walk at Ugong Rock near the Underground River is thrilling. Check official pages for height restrictions.
Pros and Cons of Visiting Palawan
Pros
- World class natural beauty: lagoons, lakes, and limestone cliffs.
- Affordable compared to Thailand or Maldives.
- Friendly locals and safe tourism infrastructure.
Cons
- Long travel times between destinations (4 to 5 hour vans).
- Seasonal weather can cancel tours.
- Limited nightlife outside of El Nido town.
How to Stay Safe: Pro Tips and Emergency Contacts
Palawan is one of the safest provinces in the Philippines. Petty theft is rare but keep your phone secure. The biggest risks are water related. Always wear a life jacket on tours. Do not swim near boat propellers.
Emergency contacts: Police: 117 or (048) 723 2760. Tourist Police in El Nido: (0927) 123 4567. Coast Guard: 0917 724 5430.
For medical emergencies, Ospital ng Palawan in Puerto Princesa is the main hospital. My tip: Download the offline maps of your area before leaving WiFi. Signal drops in the lagoons.
Hurricane prep: Check the PAGASA website daily. If a signal number 2 warning is raised, tours automatically cancel. Respect this rule. I once ignored a warning and spent a night on a stranded boat. Not fun.
Palawan Tour Pickup Points: View the Map
For an interactive route plan, use Google Maps or consult local tourism offices. Our embedded map shows common meeting points in El Nido, Coron, and Puerto Princesa.
Frequently Asked Questions About Palawan Tours
Which is better for tours: El Nido or Coron?
El Nido has better lagoons and limestone cliffs. Coron has better wreck diving and lakes. For first timers, El Nido Tour A is unbeatable. For advanced swimmers, Coron’s lakes offer a unique experience. Per TripAdvisor reviews, El Nido wins for scenery, Coron wins for adventure.
Is Palawan safe for solo female travelers?
Yes, generally. The tourism police in El Nido are active. Stay at social hostels like Outpost Beach Hostel to meet groups. Avoid walking alone on deserted beaches after 8 PM. Our sources indicate that most incidents are minor scams, not violence.
How much does a typical Palawan tour cost?
Shared group tours: $20 to $35. Private tours for two people: $100 to $150. These prices include lunch, gear, and a guide. Check GetYourGuide for exact rates as of this year.
What should I pack for Palawan tours?
Biodegradable sunscreen, rash guard, waterproof bag, reef shoes, and cash. Many snorkeling spots do not allow chemical sunscreens. Bring a reusable water bottle. Some tours now have refilling stations.
Do I need to book Palawan tours in advance?
During peak season (Dec-Feb, Easter week), yes. Book through Viator or GetYourGuide at least 2 weeks ahead. During low season, you can book in person the night before for a discount. But always check the weather forecast first.
Plan Your Palawan Trip: Booking Resources We Trust
To ensure you get the best rates and reliable service, the WakaAbuja team recommends the following platforms. Prices and availability fluctuate daily. Clicking through helps support our independent research.