Classic Filipino breakfast and coffee in a heritage bistro; a good, central spot if you arrive early in Manila before your domestic flight. Cafe Adriatico typically opens from 7:00am.
Catch a domestic flight (approx. 1h30) to Puerto Princesa — book early for a group of 8; Air carriers run multiple daily flights. Flight times vary; aim for a morning departure to maximize your first day in Palawan.
Local favorite for grilled chicken (chicken inasal) and Filipino fare; good for groups and a first taste of Palawan flavors. Open mid-morning to late evening.
A relaxed afternoon tour to see key city sights and try local snacks at Baker's Hill; Baker's Hill is usually open 8:00am–6:00pm so plan arrival before sunset.
A celebrated Puerto Princesa restaurant specializing in fresh seafood and local produce; make reservations for a group of 8 — KaLui typically opens for dinner around 5:00pm.
Most tours pick up early (6:00–7:00am) for the scheduled permit slot; the boat trips into the cave run in daylight hours — confirm your permit/time when booking because slots fill fast.
Drive ~1h15–1h45 to Sabang then ride a paddle/bumboat into the park; the guided cave boat ride through the river is the highlight and lasts ~45–60 minutes.
On the drive back you can stop at the Palawan Wildlife Rescue & Conservation Center (crocodile farm) or take the afternoon to rest at the hotel — Crocodile Farm typically opens late morning until late afternoon.
Early breakfast and load luggage for the transfer to El Nido — choose between a recommended early AirSwift flight (faster) or a shared/private van (5–6 hours).
AirSwift flights are short and save hours compared to road transfer; book early for group seats. If flights are full, a private van is the alternative (5–6h).
Short tricycle ride from El Nido town; relax, swim, or try the zipline (if open) and enjoy a beachfront sunset — beach is open all day, facilities available until evening.
Light breakfast and pack swim/snorkel gear, reef-safe sunscreen, and water; most boats start assembling at the port and leave by 8:00am, so be ready for early pickup.
El Nido’s most famous route — expect limestone karst lagoons, clear water for snorkeling, and picnic lunch on the boat or an island; tour boats typically operate 8:00am–4:00pm and include lunch and snorkeling gear for rent.
Drive ~45–75 minutes to the beautiful twin-sand beach for swimming, sunbathing, and local beach shacks; beach is open all day and is a quieter alternative to island hopping.
If you prefer another boat day, Tour C or B are popular alternatives covering different lagoons and snorkeling spots; tours typically run 8:00am–4:00pm with lunch included.
Take a short hop to Puerto Princesa; if direct ENI→MNL seats exist for your date that can save time — otherwise connect via PPS to a Manila flight. Book early for group availability.
Domestic flight back to Manila (approx. 1h30) — target an early afternoon arrival in Manila so you still have an evening in the city. Flights typically operate throughout the day.
Toyo Eatery is a celebrated fine-dining option (reservations required) showcasing modern Filipino cuisine; for a more casual group-friendly option, choose Manam or Gerry's Grill in Makati or BGC.
Visit Manila’s historic walled city — Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church are open from around 8:00am and offer a compact, informative morning of culture and history.
Head to SM Mall of Asia for gifts and waterfront views, or to Greenbelt/Makati for boutiques — malls open through evening and are convenient for last-minute needs.
Allow at least 2–3 hours for international departures (traffic can be heavy). Confirm transfer time with hotel and account for Manila traffic when leaving for the airport.