Puerto Princesa and El Nido 5-Day Itinerary

Wednesday, September 27: Arrive in Puerto Princesa

Start your trip by arriving in Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan. In the morning, visit the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its underground river and stunning limestone formations. Take a scenic boat ride through the river and explore the cave system. In the afternoon, visit the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center, where you can see various species of animals and learn about conservation efforts. In the evening, enjoy a seafood dinner at a local restaurant.

• Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park: Estimated cost - PHP 1,500, Estimated time spent - 3-4 hours
• Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center: Estimated cost - PHP 100, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours

Thursday, September 28: Honda Bay Island Hopping

Spend the day exploring the beautiful islands of Honda Bay. In the morning, take a boat tour to Luli Island, where you can swim, snorkel, and relax on the beach. In the afternoon, visit Cowrie Island, known for its white sandy beach and clear waters. Enjoy water activities such as kayaking, jet skiing, or simply lounging by the beach. End the day with a visit to Starfish Island, where you can spot colorful starfish and go snorkeling. Return to Puerto Princesa in the evening.

• Luli Island: Estimated cost - PHP 1,000, Estimated time spent - 3-4 hours
• Cowrie Island: Estimated cost - PHP 1,000, Estimated time spent - 3-4 hours
• Starfish Island: Estimated cost - PHP 1,000, Estimated time spent - 3-4 hours

Friday, September 29: Travel to El Nido

Take a van or bus from Puerto Princesa to El Nido, a scenic journey that takes approximately 5-6 hours. Arrive in El Nido in the afternoon and check into your hotel. In the evening, explore the vibrant streets of El Nido town, known for its lively bars, restaurants, and shops. Enjoy a delicious dinner of local delicacies and soak in the lively atmosphere.

• Van/Bus from Puerto Princesa to El Nido: Estimated cost - PHP 500, Estimated time spent - 5-6 hours

Saturday, September 30: Island Hopping Tour A

Embark on an island hopping tour to explore the stunning islands and lagoons of Bacuit Bay. Tour A is a popular choice and includes visits to Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and Seven Commandos Beach. Swim in crystal-clear waters, snorkel among colorful marine life, and relax on pristine beaches. Enjoy a picnic lunch on one of the islands. Return to El Nido in the evening.

• Island Hopping Tour A: Estimated cost - PHP 1,200, Estimated time spent - 7-8 hours

Sunday, October 1: Nacpan Beach and Nagkalit-Kalit Falls

Spend the day exploring the natural beauty of El Nido. In the morning, visit Nacpan Beach, a stunning stretch of white sand and turquoise waters. Relax on the beach, swim, or try some beach activities like beach volleyball or frisbee. In the afternoon, hike to Nagkalit-Kalit Falls, a hidden gem nestled in the lush greenery. Take a refreshing dip in the natural pool and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Return to El Nido in the evening.

• Nacpan Beach: Free entrance, Estimated time spent - 3-4 hours
• Nagkalit-Kalit Falls: Estimated cost - PHP 200, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While in Puerto Princesa, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Batak Cultural Village, where you can learn about the indigenous Batak people and their traditional way of life. In El Nido, venture off the beaten path and explore the hidden beaches and lagoons of Duli Beach and Matinloc Island. These lesser-known spots offer pristine beauty and are perfect for those seeking a quiet escape.

For hotel and flight prices in Puerto Princesa and El Nido, you can check here.