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Palawan Tips: The Ultimate Travel Guide for the Jewel of the Philippines
Palawan has earned the reputation of being one of the jewels of the Philippines, and rightly so. This westernmost province of the Philippines stands out with its picturesque landscape and stunning islands with pristine beaches. During your stay, you can swim in crystal clear water, relax on endless dream beaches, roam through the dense rainforest, or enjoy the unique atmosphere created by the limestone rocks.
General information about Palawan Island
The island of Palawan lies in the west of the Philippines and belongs to the province of Mimaropa, a part of Southern Tagalog. The main island extends over a length of about 450 kilometers and is about 40 kilometers wide.
An incredible atmosphere is created by the karst formations that give the island its character. If you explore the island, you can see the island’s highest peak, Mount Mantalingahan, which is a little over 2000 meters high, from a distance.
As you can see, not only enchanting beaches with emerald green water await you here, but also unique and wild jungle landscapes.
Meanwhile, it is also interesting to know that many indigenous people still live in the region, and many descendants of Philippine immigrants, originally from the Cuyo Islands, have found their home in Palawan.
An incredible atmosphere is created by the karst formations that give the island its character. If you explore the island, you can see the island’s highest peak, Mount Mantalingahan, which is a little over 2000 meters high, from a distance.
As you can see, not only enchanting beaches with emerald green water await you here, but also unique and wild jungle landscapes.
Meanwhile, it is also interesting to know that many indigenous people still live in the region, and many descendants of Philippine immigrants, originally from the Cuyo Islands, have found their home in Palawan.
Arrival & Transfer to Palawan
If you want to take a vacation to Palawan, planning your trip to Palawan is of course also on your to-do list. The easiest way to get to this unique island paradise is by air.
The fastest and easiest way to reach Palawan from Germany is via the Philippine capital Manila. You only have to plan one stopover, for example via Dubai.
From Manila, you can reach the coastal city of Puerto Princesa within one and a half hours daily. You also can take the ferry to your destination. You only have to expect a much longer journey.
Once you arrive on the island, you can take advantage of numerous transfer services or cabs that will take you to your first accommodation. If flexibility is important to you, you should consider renting a scooter or car.
Also, before you enter the country, you will need to show a return flight ticket as you will be issued a 30-day visa.
The fastest and easiest way to reach Palawan from Germany is via the Philippine capital Manila. You only have to plan one stopover, for example via Dubai.
From Manila, you can reach the coastal city of Puerto Princesa within one and a half hours daily. You also can take the ferry to your destination. You only have to expect a much longer journey.
Once you arrive on the island, you can take advantage of numerous transfer services or cabs that will take you to your first accommodation. If flexibility is important to you, you should consider renting a scooter or car.
Also, before you enter the country, you will need to show a return flight ticket as you will be issued a 30-day visa.
Best travel time for Palawan
On the list of Palawan tips, the best travel time for Palawan should not be missing. If you want to make the most out of your vacation, you should take a look at the climate.
The tropical climate in the Philippines ensures that there are only slight temperature fluctuations throughout the year. Palawan lies in the ever humid tropics. This means that in addition to the warm temperatures there is a constant amount of rain throughout the year.
Accordingly, you must always be prepared for rain and should therefore also bring waterproof clothing. Between June and November is the rainy season in the Philippines. During this time there can also be devastating typhoons.
The tropical climate in the Philippines ensures that there are only slight temperature fluctuations throughout the year. Palawan lies in the ever humid tropics. This means that in addition to the warm temperatures there is a constant amount of rain throughout the year.
Accordingly, you must always be prepared for rain and should therefore also bring waterproof clothing. Between June and November is the rainy season in the Philippines. During this time there can also be devastating typhoons.
On the other hand, there is less rainfall during the dry season from December to May. The best time to travel is limited to the months from December to February, as it can become unbearably hot in the remaining months.
Destinations on Palawan
Where to go in Palawan, one of the most charming tourist destinations in the Philippines. Check out our list for starters:
El Nido
In the north of Palawan is the lively vacation resort El Nido. The name, which translates as "the nest", is partly because the place is surrounded by limestone rocks and embedded in incredible landscapes.
Due to the impressive location of the place, it is of importance for island hopping in the north of Palawan. Because in this area, the Bacuit Archipelago offers enchanting natural landscapes.
During your stay, you should take the chance to see one of the Palawan tips at close range. The numerous lagoons, beautiful beaches, and incredible landscapes will take your breath away.
Due to the impressive location of the place, it is of importance for island hopping in the north of Palawan. Because in this area, the Bacuit Archipelago offers enchanting natural landscapes.
During your stay, you should take the chance to see one of the Palawan tips at close range. The numerous lagoons, beautiful beaches, and incredible landscapes will take your breath away.
If you spend a little more time in the north of the island, you should definitely plan an excursion to the beaches of Nacpan Beach and Calitang Beach. One of the most beautiful beaches in the world awaits you with magical idyll and loneliness.
If you want to explore the mystical natural landscapes more closely, a detour to the Nagkalit-Kalit waterfalls is worthwhile. Here you should book a tour because you will be guided safely through the jungle.
Not far from El Nido is the picturesque Marimegmeg Beach, where you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable day. Before you turn your back on the resort, you should take the opportunity to stroll through the streets and let the different impressions come to you.
Last but not least, you should not miss the view from Taraw Peak. Once you reach the top, unique scenery will compensate you for the strenuous climb. You should take a guide to make sure you reach the top safely.
If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of El Nido, a trip to the small town of Sibaltan is worthwhile. Here you will find above all peace and authentic accommodations.
If you want to explore the mystical natural landscapes more closely, a detour to the Nagkalit-Kalit waterfalls is worthwhile. Here you should book a tour because you will be guided safely through the jungle.
Not far from El Nido is the picturesque Marimegmeg Beach, where you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable day. Before you turn your back on the resort, you should take the opportunity to stroll through the streets and let the different impressions come to you.
Last but not least, you should not miss the view from Taraw Peak. Once you reach the top, unique scenery will compensate you for the strenuous climb. You should take a guide to make sure you reach the top safely.
If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of El Nido, a trip to the small town of Sibaltan is worthwhile. Here you will find above all peace and authentic accommodations.
Port Barton
One of the top must-see places on the island of Palawan is the cute fishing village, Port Barton. This small, contemplative place lets you dive into the fascination of the Philippines.
As soon as you are kissed awake by the first sunbeams and hear the chirping of the birds, you will be thrilled by paradise. The helpfulness of the Filipinos is almost contagious and enchanting.
In the 14 kilometers long Long Beach in Port Barton, you will find a lonely place and experience an unforgettable stay. With a little luck, you can swim with turtles in the water or watch the hatching of the baby turtles and their way into the sea.
As soon as you are kissed awake by the first sunbeams and hear the chirping of the birds, you will be thrilled by paradise. The helpfulness of the Filipinos is almost contagious and enchanting.
In the 14 kilometers long Long Beach in Port Barton, you will find a lonely place and experience an unforgettable stay. With a little luck, you can swim with turtles in the water or watch the hatching of the baby turtles and their way into the sea.
If you spend a few days in this sleepy little place, you should definitely plan a tour through the unique mangroves.
Also worth a trip to the enchanting islands, like Cacnipa Island or German Island. These Palawan tips will enchant you in no time and promise an unforgettable stay.
A real adventure awaits you with a trip into the jungle of Port Barton. Book a guide and set off through the dense rainforest. A highlight is the Pamuayan waterfalls.
Also worth a trip to the enchanting islands, like Cacnipa Island or German Island. These Palawan tips will enchant you in no time and promise an unforgettable stay.
A real adventure awaits you with a trip into the jungle of Port Barton. Book a guide and set off through the dense rainforest. A highlight is the Pamuayan waterfalls.
Sabang
A little further south of Port Barton is the small village of Sabang. One of the Palawan tips is especially known for the Underground River.
In the middle of the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, there is a fascinating underworld in addition to incredible flora and fauna.
The about 7 kilometers long underwater river is a special attraction of this area and is visited by numerous tourists. If you plan a trip into this mystical and dark world, a bizarre cave system awaits you.
Once you are on the navigable underwater river, you can admire stalagmites and stalactites everywhere. While the bats fly around your ears, excitement is guaranteed.
If you have enough time, you should definitely take a closer look at the picturesque nature or relax on the beautiful Sabang Beach.
Puerto Princesa
Puerto Princesa is the largest city of Palawan and is located on the east coast of the island. Most likely you will start your adventure in this city.
The city is the jumping off point for many excursions. During your stay, you should visit the Baywalk in the evening. Then you can try delicious delicacies at numerous street food stands.
About half an hour away from the city is the picturesque bay Honda Bay. Numerous islands with white dream beaches and unique landscapes cavort in this area. Here you should look out for fascinating starfish.
Even without a boat, you can discover incredible stretches of beach around Puerto Princesa. Especially recommended are Nagtabon Beach and Tagkawayan Beach.
The city is the jumping off point for many excursions. During your stay, you should visit the Baywalk in the evening. Then you can try delicious delicacies at numerous street food stands.
About half an hour away from the city is the picturesque bay Honda Bay. Numerous islands with white dream beaches and unique landscapes cavort in this area. Here you should look out for fascinating starfish.
Even without a boat, you can discover incredible stretches of beach around Puerto Princesa. Especially recommended are Nagtabon Beach and Tagkawayan Beach.
A magical and at the same time romantic natural spectacle you should not miss. From Puerto Princesa, you can watch glowing fireflies in the mangroves in the evening hours.
Like a sea of lights, the night begins to glow and fantastic atmospheres are created. But also plankton makes the water glow in this area. During the chemical process of bioluminescence, light is generated - simply exciting.
If you are especially interested in the underwater world and like to dive, then you should think about a trip to the enchanting Tubbataha reef. Furthermore, side trips to the Tabon Caves are especially popular.
Like a sea of lights, the night begins to glow and fantastic atmospheres are created. But also plankton makes the water glow in this area. During the chemical process of bioluminescence, light is generated - simply exciting.
If you are especially interested in the underwater world and like to dive, then you should think about a trip to the enchanting Tubbataha reef. Furthermore, side trips to the Tabon Caves are especially popular.
Napsan
In Napsan, everything is a little more contemplative, quiet, and idyllic. On-site you can experience the authentic island life up close and dive into the diversity and fascination of the island.
Napsan Beach is an excellent Palawan destination, where you can take endless walks or relax in the sun. Here, you have the chance to relax and forget the daily routine for a moment.
Napsan Beach is an excellent Palawan destination, where you can take endless walks or relax in the sun. Here, you have the chance to relax and forget the daily routine for a moment.
Busuanga & Coron Island
The islands of Busuanga and Coron in northern Palawan are among the most picturesque Palawan tips. On the islands, you have the opportunity to discover remote dream beaches, swim in picturesque bays, or dive into the jungle.
You can explore this unique place on numerous tours from the boat. If you crave adrenalin and go diving more often, then wreck diving in Coron Bay is a must for you. One of the most famous diving areas of the Sulu Sea will amaze you.
You should also visit Banol Beach on Coron Island. There, surrounded by high cliffs, special atmospheres are created.
Linapacan Island
A true and untouched island paradise in Linapacan. Are you looking for lonely and unique beaches? Then the island is just the right thing for you.
There are no words that can describe this beauty only approximately. You should make up your mind. Once you arrive, you will be amazed by the hospitality of the locals.
There are no words that can describe this beauty only approximately. You should make up your mind. Once you arrive, you will be amazed by the hospitality of the locals.
Other awesome beaches in Palawan
Hidden Beach
Located in El Nido, as you can tell from its name, Hidden Beach is seemingly concealed and is surrounded by towering gray karst cliffs.
Las Cabanas Beach
Offering a panoramic view of the outlying islands, Las Cabanas Beach offers the best sunset view on the entire Palawan island. This scenic beach is located just three kilometers south of El Nido town.
Duli Beach
Nestled in the heart of the town of El Nido, Duli Beach boasts a long stretch of white powdery sands and beautiful waves perfect if you are inclined to surfing. With its peaceful vibes, this is the ideal beach destination in El Nido if you are looking for a truly relaxing beach spot.
Located in El Nido, as you can tell from its name, Hidden Beach is seemingly concealed and is surrounded by towering gray karst cliffs.
Las Cabanas Beach
Offering a panoramic view of the outlying islands, Las Cabanas Beach offers the best sunset view on the entire Palawan island. This scenic beach is located just three kilometers south of El Nido town.
Duli Beach
Nestled in the heart of the town of El Nido, Duli Beach boasts a long stretch of white powdery sands and beautiful waves perfect if you are inclined to surfing. With its peaceful vibes, this is the ideal beach destination in El Nido if you are looking for a truly relaxing beach spot.
Seven Commandos Beach
With dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and a long sloping stretch of fine white sand, Seven Commandos Beach is without a doubt one of the most gorgeous beaches you’ll find in Palawan and perhaps in the entire Philippines.
Palawan is like a piece of heaven on earth, and you should add it to your itinerary. If you want to travel to this incredible jewel, don't waste time, why not book your ticket now and spend your holiday in paradise-like Palawan.
With dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and a long sloping stretch of fine white sand, Seven Commandos Beach is without a doubt one of the most gorgeous beaches you’ll find in Palawan and perhaps in the entire Philippines.
Palawan is like a piece of heaven on earth, and you should add it to your itinerary. If you want to travel to this incredible jewel, don't waste time, why not book your ticket now and spend your holiday in paradise-like Palawan.
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