Palawan is a stunning island province in the Philippines, known for its breathtaking natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life. It has been consistently recognized as one of the most beautiful islands in the world. Palawan is famous for its white-sand beaches, limestone cliffs, and rich biodiversity, making it a top destination for nature lovers, beach enthusiasts, and adventurers.
How to Get to Palawan:
- By Air:
- The most convenient way to reach Palawan is by flying. There are several direct flights from Manila, Cebu, or other major cities in the Philippines to Puerto Princesa (the capital city of Palawan), El Nido, or Coron. Major airlines like Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific offer frequent flights.
- By Sea:
- You can take a ferry from Manila to Coron, although this option takes much longer (around 9-11 hours by ferry) and is less common for tourists due to time constraints.
Things to Do in Palawan:
- Visit the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park (Underground River):
- A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this underground river is one of the longest navigable rivers in the world that flows through a limestone cave. You can take a guided boat tour through the cave, marveling at its rock formations and the surrounding wildlife.
- Explore El Nido:
- El Nido is known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, clear waters, and hidden lagoons. Island-hopping tours are very popular, taking you to spots like Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, and Secret Lagoon. Snorkeling and diving in the nearby Bacuit Bay are also must-do activities.
- Discover Coron:
- Famous for its stunning coral reefs, World War II shipwrecks, and lakes like Kayangan Lake, Coron is a paradise for divers. The wreck diving in Coron is considered one of the best in the world.
- Relax at Nacpan Beach:
- Located near El Nido, Nacpan Beach is one of Palawan’s most beautiful stretches of coastline. Its serene, pristine sand and clear blue waters offer a perfect place for relaxation.
- Go to the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park:
- Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tubbataha is an atoll coral reef and one of the best diving spots globally, known for its incredible marine biodiversity.
- Visit Honda Bay:
- Located near Puerto Princesa, Honda Bay offers a range of island-hopping experiences. You can explore Starfish Island, Pandan Island, and Snake Island for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on the beach.
- See the Wildlife at Calauit Safari Park:
- This wildlife sanctuary on Calauit Island features African animals like giraffes and zebras, as well as local Philippine species, offering a unique experience for animal lovers.
- Hiking and Exploring Nature:
- If you love hiking, you can trek Mount Tapyas in Coron for panoramic views or explore the jungles of Palawan where you can find unique flora and fauna.
Palawan is a paradise that offers something for every type of traveler, from diving enthusiasts to nature lovers to those just seeking some relaxation on a beautiful beach.