Puerto Princesa is the gateway to Palawan — the city where almost all tourists land before heading north to El Nido or south to Coron. Most travelers treat it as a stopover, but Puerto Princesa has enough to fill 1 to 2 days on its own. Here is a practical first-timer’s guide for 2026.
Getting to Puerto Princesa
Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS) has direct domestic flights from Manila (about 1 hour 15 minutes), Cebu, and a handful of other Philippine cities. Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia all serve this route with multiple daily departures. Flights from Manila are cheapest when booked 4 to 8 weeks in advance — expect to pay ₱1,500 to ₱4,000 per person one-way depending on timing.
Getting from the Airport into the City
Puerto Princesa Airport is about 2 km from the city center — one of the most conveniently located airports in the Philippines. From arrivals:
- Tricycle: ₱50–80 to most city center hotels. The most common option.
- Grab (Philippines Uber equivalent): Available in Puerto Princesa and slightly more reliable than hailing a tricycle at the airport.
- Pre-booked van transfer: If you are continuing to El Nido the same day or next morning, arrange pickup from the airport directly with your transfer provider.
What to Do in Puerto Princesa
1. Puerto Princesa Subterranean River (Underground River)
The number one attraction in Puerto Princesa — a 8.2 km underground river navigable by boat for 4.3 km through a stunning cave system. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. The cave tour lasts about 45 minutes with a paddler guide and involves dramatic stalactites, cathedral-sized chambers, and occasional bats.
How to visit: Book a day tour through your hotel or a local agency. Tours include transport from Puerto Princesa city (90 minutes each way), the cave permit, and the boat ride. Total cost ₱1,200–1,500 per person. Book permits at least 2 to 3 days in advance during peak season.
2. Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center
Home to over 200 Philippine crocodiles rescued from the wild. The center runs crocodile feeding shows and educational tours with a strong conservation focus. Entrance is ₱60 for adults and it is a short tricycle ride from the city center.
3. Honda Bay Island Hopping
Honda Bay just outside Puerto Princesa has several small islands ideal for a half-day of snorkeling and beach time. Tours visit Starfish Island, Cowrie Island, and Luli Island (which partially disappears at high tide). Cost is around ₱800–1,000 per person including a boat and guide. This is a good option if you have limited time and cannot make it to El Nido.
4. Rizal Avenue — Food and Shopping
The main street through Puerto Princesa city has a good selection of local restaurants, a night market, souvenir shops, and casual bars. Spend an evening here before your early morning van departure.
Where to Eat in Puerto Princesa
- Kinabuch’s Restaurant — the most popular restaurant in the city for fresh seafood, grilled fish, and Filipino classics. Expect to queue during dinner hours.
- Ugong Rock Adventures Café — open-air café with local food and good coffee near the city center.
- Ka Lui Restaurant — a long-standing institution in Puerto Princesa serving traditional Filipino food in a beautiful open-air setting. Reservations recommended.
- Puerto Princesa Night Market — open from 6 PM on the baywalk, serving cheap local street food including grilled pork, seafood, and rice dishes under ₱200 per meal.
Practical Tips for Puerto Princesa
- Cash: Withdraw at the airport or in the city. ATM availability drops significantly in El Nido and Port Barton.
- SIM card: Globe and Smart SIM cards are available at the airport and in city malls. Data is reliable in the city but spotty in El Nido.
- Getting around: Tricycles are the main city transport — always agree on a price before getting in. Most city rides cost ₱50–100.
- Early start: Van transfers to El Nido depart as early as 5:30 AM. If you have an early departure, stay close to the pickup point and set multiple alarms.
Continuing to El Nido
Most travelers spend 1 night in Puerto Princesa, do the Underground River on Day 2, then take a van to El Nido on Day 3. This is the most efficient way to structure your first Palawan trip.
Book your van transfer from Puerto Princesa to El Nido before you arrive — popular morning departures fill up, especially during peak season. Book your van transfer here or message us on WhatsApp at +63 948 108 7090.
