Palawan Island, Philippines. Palawan - the tale of the lost islands The natural wonder of El Nido

The island of Palawan, located in the western part of the Philippines, attracts tourists with magnificent beaches, tropical rain forest, and beautiful scenery. There is a huge protected area of coral reefs here. Palawan is ideal for those who seek unity with nature, trying to get away from the hustle and bustle.

How to get to Palawan

The best way to get to the island is by air. In the administrative center of the province of Puerto Princesa there is an airport of the same name. You can fly here from the capital of the Philippines - Manila, the journey will take about an hour. The hotel can be reached by car or by boat.

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Where to stay

Palawan is special in that there are no middle-class hotels here. You can rent an inexpensive bungalow with a minimum number of amenities or give preference to luxury apartments.

Club Paradise is a convenient hotel for a family holiday. It offers cozy cottages. There is a tennis court, a swimming pool, and an excellent dive center.

Daluyon Beach And Mountain Resort 4* is a cozy hotel located in the eastern part of the island, near the famous national park and the provincial capital.

El Nido Lagen Island Resort is located in one of the picturesque bays of the island. The hotel features separate cottages on the beach, in the garden and on the water. Cozy rooms, friendly staff, magnificent views from the windows - everything is provided here for a comfortable, complete rest.

Weather

Between March and May, the weather is consistently dry and hot. The rainy season begins in July and lasts until November. After the rains, warm, sunny weather sets in until February. The average annual temperature is +26+29 degrees.

The best period to visit Palawan is considered to be from December to May. At this time, short-term precipitation cannot be ruled out, but it will in no way affect the quality of your vacation.

Entertainment and attractions in Palawan

The island of Palawan is a recognized natural reserve on a global scale. Impressive rocks, impenetrable jungles, mysterious caves, underground rivers, exotic fauna and flora - everything here breathes calm and tranquility.

This corner of the planet is chosen not only by fans of quiet family time. Active recreation is also widespread here.

Palawan is a true paradise for scuba diving enthusiasts. Divers not only admire the colorful reefs, but can also see shipwrecks dating back to World War II. Palawan's many small islets and reefs are considered the best diving in all of Asia.

There is a lot to go and see here.

The main attraction of the island is an extensive network of numerous caves, connected by an underground river. This miracle of nature is protected by UNESCO as a natural landscape monument.
You can get into the spirit of wild nature by going to the small island of Ursula, where there is a real reserve where rare and endangered sea turtles and dugongs exist. Here you can also visit a crocodile farm.
The Palawan Museum, located in Mendoza Park, is of interest to tourists.
To better understand the peculiarities of life and everyday life of the local population, you can visit the capital of Palawan - the city of Puerto Princesa.

Palawan is an exotic island where nature itself has provided luxurious conditions for relaxation. The gentle sea, warm sun, picturesque nature are a real paradise for tourists. Visit here just once, and you will never leave the desire to come back here again.

The second is located in the village of El Nido, which is the most beautiful place on the island.

Foreign tourists can reach the archipelago by landing at one of the Philippine International Airports located in the capital city, Kalibo on Boracay or Iloilo on Panay.

The Ro Ro carrier connects the Malaysian port with the southern part of the island (Bataraza). The ferry distance is only 190 km, the journey takes 5 hours.

In addition to ferries by sea, you can also get to Palawan by high-speed or regular boat; this can be done, for example, from the island of Mindoro (San Jose), from where you can get to Coron (Busuanga) for 1,200 pesos and 6 hours. And already in Coron you can take a boat to El Nido (1280 pesos and 7 hours) or a speedboat (1760 pesos and 3.5 hours).

Transport in Palawan

To get around Palawan, you can take buses or minibuses, tricycles and jeepneys.

As a rule, traffic on the island comes to life as early as 6 am, but you won’t find an exact schedule of routes for this or that type of transport here. Departure occurs as the cabin fills up.

Buses and minivans depart from Puerto Princesa to the south several times throughout the day. A jeepney ride costs 150 pesos per passenger.

As for the tricycle, you can make a separate trip on it to your destination, the price for a short route is 30 pesos. Or you can rent a similar vehicle, then the tariff will be hourly, at the rate of 100 pesos for every 60 minutes.

Rent a car or bike

As for a motorcycle or scooter, it is better to choose models with wide wheels; the ride will be more comfortable. The cost depends on the chosen model and the duration of the trip.

For example, a 24-hour rental of a Yamaha Mio Aerox motorcycle will cost from $18.

Renting a car will, of course, cost more. At the same time, you can rent a car for personal use, that is, drive it yourself or resort to the services of a driver.

The cost of a small car starts from $28 per day, and for a car with larger capacity and power you will have to pay from $40. Driver services are paid additionally, usually 1000 pesos per day.

Where to live in Palawan: areas

The choice of accommodation options on the island is quite wide, as is the range of prices. For example, staying in a 3-star hotel room in El Nido will cost about $50, while the price per night at the 4-star Blue Palawan Beach Club tends to be $100.

There are also budget options on the island, where you will have to pay only $10 for a room of 8 sq.m. Example - Alexzus Backpackers Travel Lodge 15 minutes from the beach in El Nido.

When choosing an accommodation option, you should know the features of the areas of the island of Palawan:

Puerto Princesa

The city rightfully bears the title of one of the most beautiful in the Philippines. It is famous for its attractions: the underground river of the same name, a cathedral with a 200-year history, as well as park complexes - Mendoza Park and Princess Eulalia Park.

The surroundings of the administrative center are also interesting. On the one hand, there is an amazingly beautiful bay, this is an excellent place for evening promenades. On the other side there is a national park and a wooded part. A walk through the forest is an opportunity to see picturesque waterfalls, as well as take pictures of the city and bay from above by climbing a low mountain.

El Nido

One of the most picturesque places on earth and the most remarkable area of Palawan. Here in Bakuit Bay there are many islands scattered, it is possible to get into such coves and bays where you get the full feeling that the tourist is the first person to set foot on the shore.

Coast of El Nido from the air:

El Nido is separated from the administrative center by 260 km; the town is located in the northern part of the island and is quite compact, its width is only 300 m.

It is interesting that the tiny village, which El Nido has long been, came to the attention of tourists not so long ago, in 1979. It was then that a ship sank off the local shores and scuba divers who arrived at the wreck site discovered the unique beauty of the surrounding area.

The first diving site was built here in 1983.

Coron

This is the province of Palawan, which includes the island of the same name, part of the island of Busuanga, as well as another 50 tiny islands in the area.

The city infrastructure is characterized by weak development of the banking sector and terminal network, but a good selection of restaurants and cafes.

Coron is on one side a national park and on the other a popular tourist destination. Ordinary tourists and divers are attracted by the very beautiful beaches, clear sea, and salt lakes surrounded by rocks. Diving enthusiasts will certainly appreciate the sunken ships and underwater grottoes.

It is worth knowing that Corona has some of the highest prices, and cash payments are predominantly accepted.

Napsan

The territory is located only 50 km to the west from the administrative center. However, here you can feel a complete separation from civilization: in Napsan there is no Internet and in some places simple telephone connections, electricity supply for only 3 hours a day (from 19 to 22 hours), an almost complete absence of asphalt roads and a lot of corners full of secrets and interesting to the traveler.

Port Barton

The picturesque town, located 145 km from the administrative center of the island, should be of interest primarily to those who want to relax on a budget and in relative privacy.

There is no great service here, buses run much less often than, for example, in El Nido. However, the plus is the feeling of the pristine beauty of the island, untouched by the tourist flow.

Sabang

This is a small town with the sea on one side and a mountain range on the other. The main street runs through the entire village and leads directly to the port, from where the ships depart. means to the local underwater river.

There are no power grids here. Each house has its own generator, so electricity is supplied literally for 3-4 hours in the evening.

The city is attractive with two cozy beaches located to the right of the pier. The first is hotels and bungalows, the second is wilder and less crowded.

There are cafeterias on the beaches, there is everything you need for a comfortable stay.

San Vincente

The small village is located almost equidistant from Puerto Princesa and El Nido and is attractive for its untouched nature. Every year, however, the tourist flow here is increasing, the authorities are even laying a concrete road.

It is worth knowing that there are no banks, terminals, ATMs, just as there are no expensive hotels, medical institutions and similar amenities.

What to see in Palawan

In addition to the fact that each area described above in itself deserves the attention of a tourist, I would like to note the main attractions of the island, including:

Puerto Princesa Underground River

This river is the longest among the underground ones, its length is 8 km, and you can walk along it admiring a series of unique natural cave labyrinths.

It is worth knowing that the route along the river for tourists is only 1 km, and the journey lasts 45 minutes.

To enter the park, you must obtain a permit, paying about 4 euros for it; an additional environmental fee is paid - up to 1 euro.

You can enter the national park daily from 8:30 to 15:30. However, entry restrictions may apply due to inclement weather conditions.

It is more convenient to see the underground river as part of a tourist group. The cost per person will be about 22 euros, there are no additional expenses, this amount will include a transfer to the park itself and back, which means the problem of finding public transport is eliminated.

Miniloc Island

Located in Bakit Bay, tourists are attracted by two bays - the Big and Small Lagoons.

You can get to the island by speedboat, but access to the lagoons is much more exotic. You can get to Bolshaya on small boats through a narrow passage. And access to the Small Lagoon is through a small hole in the rock.

Cayoya Island or Exotic Island

This place is popular among the Filipinos themselves, the residents of Palawan. The island is ideal for families with children. The coastline, in addition to snow-white sand and clear water, is distinguished by a gentle slope into the sea.

There are gazebos for safe shelter from the scorching sun.

Sand Bar Island

The island, completely covered with sand, is interesting because at high tide it is completely submerged under water. However, it is the time of high tide that is the best for exploring this attraction and comfortable swimming.

Important! Hiking around the island must be done in special shoes, as there is a high risk of bumping into corals or slipping on algae.

You can get to Sand Bar by using the boat services of the Princesa Garden Hotel, or by wading from Rizal Av. The path is not long - a little more than half a kilometer.

Matinloc Island

Both diving enthusiasts and connoisseurs of a relaxing beach holiday flock here.

The first are attracted here by the diverse coral gardens, where various species of marine life have found refuge.

For a lazy holiday, it is better to choose the east coast, where the most beautiful sandy beaches are.

You can usually get here as part of a tour.

Waterfalls and caves

Bigahoo Falls, accessible by boat from Port Barton in 20 minutes;
Mangapin Waterfall - located 100 km from the administrative center, the road is unpaved, suitable for those who like hiking or extreme bike riding. Important! During the dry season, the reservoir dries up.
El Nido Falls - in addition to the opportunity to take a dip in the hot spring, the waterfall serves as a wonderful contrast with its cool spray. It is more convenient to get there by renting a bike, which will cost 500 pesos. The journey will take approximately 40-50 minutes.
Cave Il - located 45 minutes from El Nido, is interesting because the remains of people, animals and utensils were found in it, proving that a settlement existed here more than 12 thousand years ago.
Estrella Falls. You can get to the waterfall as part of a tour or on your own. The road is of very decent quality. There are equipped parking lots, entrance to the waterfall is paid, 20 pesos. There are gazebos and a barbecue area on site. Important! You must bring your own food for a picnic. And you should be prepared for the fact that some of them will be begged from tourists by very annoying monkeys and squirrels living near the reservoir.
Salakot waterfall. To the reservoir located not so far from Puerto Princesa (46 km), the path is very difficult, the reason is that most of the road is difficult-to-pass gravel. That is why there are few tourists here and there is a complete lack of infrastructure.
Lion Cave. The natural attraction received this name because at the entrance there is a stalagmite, the shape of which resembles a sitting lion. The road from Sabang takes about 30 minutes, and the journey through the cave itself takes no more than an hour.

What else to see in Palawan

The Santa Isabel fortress, located in the town of Tai-Tai, has a 300-year history, while the building is in almost its original form and serves as a venue for various services. Open to the public from Monday to Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., entrance fee: adults - 500 pesos, children under 12 years old - 250 pesos.
The Chinese Buddha Temple near Honda Bay is an opportunity to see the decoration of the temple and visit the many islands in the bay itself.
The crocodile farm in Puerto Princesa is located on the territory of the center for the protection and conservation of wild reptiles; in addition to aquariums, there is a museum here. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket office at the entrance; tours of the farm take place as part of a group; tours begin every half hour.
The Balsahan natural pool is a crystal clear river with equipped places for recreation and parking, located on the territory of the island’s correctional colony, a place where prisoners live quite freely, making souvenirs. On weekends there are many vacationers from local residents.
Bay Walk or the city promenade of Puerto Princesa - restaurants, all kinds of shows, celebrations and festivals - that's what makes this place popular when the evening comes. During the day, you can visit the nearby Church of the Immaculate Conception or walk through the Plaza Cuartel park area.

Things to do in Palawan

Activities are quite popular in Palawan. After all, it was divers who originally discovered this picturesque place.

Snorkeling - even simple snorkeling will be an exciting journey into the world of the unique biodiversity of the local sea;
Watching whale sharks. You can go on an excursion to these terrifying sea creatures from Puerto Princesa, and you can not only see them, but also swim with them. There is no need to be afraid, since the 15-ton shark feeds exclusively on plankton and small fish. The excursion is organized from mid-spring to mid-autumn.
Kiting - from the end of autumn to the end of winter you can try your hand at kiting, the best place for this is located near the airport, there are inexpensive rooms, equipment rental is available, the instructors speak English.
Diving. The best places are the reefs of Tubbataha, Apo, Busuanga. The first of them is under the protection of Unesco, and Apo claims to be included in this list.

Beaches of Palawan

Yoga - a private beach, open to tourists, located in El Nido, distinctive features - silence and uncrowded, an excellent place for meditation.
Long Beach is located in San Vicente, its length is 14 km. The coastline is divided in two by a large rock, one of the parts is 8 km of snow-white sand. There are small retail outlets here, selling mainly drinks.
Marimemeg. Located 5 km from the town of El Nido, you can get there by tricycle for 150 pesos, from the road to the coast you will have to walk about 300 meters. The beach is considered the best in El Nido. There is a bar here, freshly squeezed juices are served, and you can rent a kayak.
Korong Beach - this 2-kilometer shallow water is unlikely to interest lovers of swimming, but children will be delighted to sit in the warm water and dig in the snow-white sand. It is very beautiful here at sunset.
Papaya is a private beach open to tourists, accessible by boat from Corong. It is worth considering that at the beginning of autumn the coastal strip may be covered with algae.
Seven Commandos is an ideal coastline, comfortable for swimming at low tides. Tourists are brought here in organized groups as part of a tour of El Nido Bay. You can get here on your own by renting a kayak on Corong.
Ipil – wild beach 2 km. from El Nido, you can get here by kayak or rowing boat. There is no infrastructure.
White Beach, the name comes from the sand, which is of a very light shade. You can get to the beach in about an hour from the center of Puerto Princesa; you should take food and drinks with you; you won’t be able to buy it in the area.
Pristine Beach is a paid beach with an equipped picnic area, gazebos, a very popular place among islanders, so you shouldn’t go here on weekends when it’s very crowded. The price of a visit depends on age and time of day. So in the evening a ticket will cost 40 pesos, versus 25 during the day.

The beaches described are not all that are on the territory of Palawan. It is worth knowing that you need to be careful when going to an unknown shore, as there are beaches that carry great danger, for example, Lapus - a private beach between Corong and Papaya, which is guarded by large dogs, ready to attack anyone who tries to land on the shore. Other coasts, like B.M., may disappoint with the lack of cleanliness, and this is with an entrance fee.

What else you should know about holidays in Palawan

Money and currency exchange

There will be a chance to withdraw money from a bank card only in Puerto Princesa; even in El Nido, popular among tourists, it is better to have cash with you, since there is only one ATM here, and it gives out 10,00 pesos per withdrawal.

There is an ATM at the airport of the administrative center, as well as in Roxas.

You can exchange currency at banks and exchange offices in the Robinson shopping center, as well as at the airport. However, in the latter case, the rate is the least profitable.

The main products from which local dishes are prepared are:

Meat, most often pork, which is used for barbecuing, meat sticks, and casseroles. The price of one meat stick in the market is 15 pesos.
Chicken is popular among locals; you can buy grilled chicken in supermarkets.
Vegetables - most often they are brought from China, what is grown on the island is sweet potatoes, Asian cabbage, cucumbers.
The fruit, the most common of which is mango, costs about 90 pesos per kilo.

If you want to try a local dessert, then you should pay attention to tupig, it contains rice, coconut milk, coconut flakes, and sugar. The boiled ingredients are formed into a sausage and decorated with a palm leaf; the taste is reminiscent of cheesecakes.

Palawan is a unique, picturesque place, an island whose pristine beauty is mesmerizing. Getting here is not easy, but the shores and underwater world of Palawan are worth seeing.

Palawan Island, Philippines

Palawan (Palawan) is the westernmost of the large islands and Philippines and the center of the province of the same name.

In 2007, the American magazine National Geographic Traveler named Palawan the best destination for a holiday on the islands in Eastern And South-East Asia and 13th best island in the world. Palawan was also named among the must-visit destinations in 2011.

Location of Palawan Island

Palawan located in the west Philippine archipelago, between o. Kalimantan (Borneo), belonging to Indonesia and Malaysia in the southwest and the Philippine islands. Mindoro in the north-east. From Borneo separated by a strait Balabak. South of Palawan - South China Sea, from the middle part Philippine Islands Palawan will separate Sulu Sea.

Palawan usually referred to as the northern part Philippine archipelago, island group Luzon. It is included in the region Mimaropa (Mimaropa) or (Region IV-B). In 2005 there was an attempt to translate Palawan to the region Western Visayas(VI) and, accordingly, to the island group Visayas, but the decision seems to have never been implemented, so the regional affiliation Palawan- the question is open.

With surrounding islands Palawan makes up the province of the same name, the largest in area among all in Philippines. Province Palawan make up about 1,780 islands from Mindoro before Borneo. Coral reefs with a total area of 11,000 km 2 are hidden under the water column. Geologically the same Palawan is an extension of the island Kalimantan (Borneo), owned Indonesia And Malaysia. Once upon a time Palawan amounted to Kalimantan one whole. And now the flora and fauna of these islands have many similar species, but from other islands Philippine archipelago Palawan differs significantly in biological diversity.

Length Palawan- 425 km with a width from 8.5 to 40 km. Area - 14896 km 2

Features of Palawan Island

Capital Palawan- the only highly urbanized settlement on the island, Puerto Princesa (Puerto Princesa), named after the Spanish princess Eulalia.

About the origin of the name of the island Palawan there is no reliable information. The word is believed to have Chinese roots, "pao-lao-yu" meaning "country with convenient harbors." The point is that to be the first to master Palawan became Chinese traders (X-XI centuries). And until 1903 Palawan was called Paragua (Paragua).

Palawan recognized as a natural reserve of world significance: majestic cliffs, impenetrable jungle, mangrove forests, primeval caves, a rich underwater world, underground rivers, wild beaches, exotic flora and fauna: scaly anteater and mouse deer.

One of the longest underground rivers in the world flows along the western coast of the archipelago, and Ursula Island designated as a fish and wildlife sanctuary. It is home to rare, critically endangered sea turtles and the sea cow, the rarest mammal in the world. There is a crocodile farm in the central part of the island. Island Palawan created for those who want to retire on the shore of a cozy bay among dense exotic vegetation. Ideal for a relaxing family holiday, as well as for those who want to enjoy water sports.

All the natural wonders of the province Palawan concentrated in El Nido (El Nido) - one of the most beautiful places on Philippines. Islands Anilao, Puerto Galera, Balicasag- ideal places for diving, snorkeling and underwater photography. Pagsanian- famous place Pagsanyan Falls and river rapids.

Resort El Nido(Spanish: nest, hiding place, shelter) - one of the most picturesque island resorts, part of the archipelago of the same name, a marine reserve El Nido. Majestic limestone cliffs, amazingly beautiful coral gardens where bright tropical fish frolic, lush greenery of the virgin jungle. In a marine reserve El Nido in the northern part Palawan all the geological and underwater natural wonders of the island are concentrated.

Limestone cliffs have protected the bays and lagoons for about 250 million years. The diversity of local fish and coral species is incalculable. El Nido- These are many small islands, most of them uninhabited. Each is easily accessible by boat - so you can spend the day on your own private beach, sunbathing, diving and swimming in the lagoons. In forests El Nido More than a hundred species of birds live, most of which can only be seen on Palawan.

On Palawan in 1934, the world's largest pearl (the pearl of Lao Tzu) with a diameter of 24 cm and a weight of 6.4 kg (!) was found.

On Palawan one of the films was filmed about James Bond- “Tomorrow never dies” ( Tomorrow Never Dies).

Diving in Palawan Island

Palawan- a real paradise for diving. A huge number of sunken ships (from the Second World War) in the area of the islands Coron, Busuanga etc. Reefs Tubbataha And Basterra in the Sulu Sea are included in the list of the world's best dive sites.

If a tourist wants to enjoy untouched landscapes and clear, clean sea water, then he should visit one of the islands of the Philippine archipelago - Palawan. What is this magical place and how to get there?

Geographical position

To enjoy the beauty of the island of Palawan, you need to know in which part of the world it is located. You need to look for this wonderful island on geographical maps on the border of the South China Sea and the Sulu Sea. It belongs to the western part of the Philippine archipelago and is the third largest.

The island stretches for 425 km, but its width is quite small. The narrowest point of Palawan Island is about 8.5 km. The widest is almost 40 km. The island area exceeds 14 thousand km².

The administrative center of Palawan is Puerto Princesa. The same city is the only urbanized settlement. The city received its name in honor of the Spanish Infanta Eulalia.

In fact, Palawan is a mini-archipelago within the Philippine archipelago. It consists of little-explored and little-developed islands. And many corners of it have not been explored at all.

History and name

Historical facts about who gave the name to this piece of land in the middle of the Pacific Ocean have not been preserved. But, since Chinese traders have been visiting the island since ancient times, there is an assumption that the roots of the name are based in the Chinese language. Presumably the name is consonant with the expression “pao-lao-yu”, an approximate translation is “a land with convenient harbors”.

Climatic conditions

The island of Palawan, the photo of which amazes with its purity and virginity, has a wonderful climate. Rainy weather is observed here from the end of May to December, but these are not tropical showers. The island falls into the South-West monsoon zone, and precipitation here is short-lived and light. The average daytime temperature is optimal for relaxation and is approximately 27-29°C. The climate of Palawan Island is characterized by the fact that there are no strong seasonal temperature fluctuations.

The Central Mountain Range runs through Palawan, dividing the island into two climatic zones. There are no active volcanoes on the island, which means there are no strong earthquakes. Despite the fact that the area as a whole is earthquake-prone, earthquakes occur extremely rarely.

A big plus for Palawan's climate is that there are no typhoons. Despite the fact that the Philippines often suffers from these natural phenomena, Palawan is often spared typhoons.

Why you should go to Palawan Island

The beauty of Palawan Island is virtually untouched. The tourism business did not have time to spoil it. There are no fashionable resorts or large cities here. Nature is brighter and more beautiful than any advertising picture, and the sea is clean and warm.

Holidays on the island of Palawan are suitable for those who want peace and quiet. There are no noisy animators here, and the beaches are quiet and deserted. The eyes enjoy the seascapes, and the soul communicates directly with nature. Here you won’t have to look for a free sun lounger or rush to get to the buffet. The vacationer will simply be on the island himself, where time has stopped and the benefits of civilization are absolutely secondary.

If a person values serenity and solitude, then he should visit Palawan.

Natural wonder El Nido

First of all, on the island of Palawan, tourists are offered to visit the El Nido Nature Reserve. It consists of 39 natural and pristine islets. Here live unique exotic species of animals and plants that cannot be found anywhere else. Small comfortable bays, untouched lagoons, limestone cliffs that protect from prying eyes. And there are more than a hundred species of birds, turtles and unique underwater fauna around.

What tourists say

For people who don't like noisy and bustling hotels, nature created the island of Palawan. Reviews of holidays in this place are filled with words of delight and admiration. Here you can feel all the greatness of nature and understand that there is nothing superfluous in the world. Every insect, bird, fish and bush is part of a huge, majestic plan called planet Earth.

Let's take a look at one of the most beautiful islands on the planet.

Mesmerizing beauty, magnificent sunrises and sunsets, clear azure water - all this can be seen with your own eyes on the island of Palawan, which is located in the Philippines. There are about 7,000 different islands scattered throughout the state, among which lies the paradise and mysterious Palawan. The views of the island are very reminiscent of Thai Koh Chang, famous for its emerald green.

One of the bays of Palawan island

But getting there is not so easy. This can be done with a transfer in Manila, the capital of the Philippines. And from there there is a flight to Puerto Princesa - this is the main city of the island of Palawan.

Palawan Island on the map

geographical coordinates 9.499555, 118.461604
length about 430 km
width from 8 to 40 km

The sights in this city can be counted on one hand, but that’s not the point. For example, visitors love to visit the military museum. Although there are not so many exhibits of wartime equipment, it is interesting to see. Or why not a temple, there is one in Puerto Princesa. This is an elongated sky-white Catholic church that was built in distant colonial times. It is a kind of imprint of those distant historical events. So, these are almost all the interesting places in the main city of the Philippines.

Much more remarkable is the underground river, legends about which have been developing for centuries. It is located on the opposite part of the island - in the village of Sabang. And to get there, you need to stand in line. This may take several hours or days.

This is where the journey along the underground river of Palawan Island begins

Sabang, like any place in the Philippines, has stunning views. Those who like to watch the raging elements can stop on the beach. Sitting on the white sand, you will certainly enjoy the sight of the water crashing uncontrollably against the rocky outcroppings. It's fascinating. There are many deserted beaches on the coast. A kingdom of silence and tranquility, a paradise for those who want to enjoy peace.

On the coast of Palawan island

As soon as it’s your turn, you can immediately swim to the underground river. It originates far in the mountains, and enters the sea, flowing through caves. The boat carrying tourists begins its journey through these caves. They have been washed away by this river for centuries. By the way, this is why the river is called underground. The walk lasts no more than an hour, so you need to be able to enjoy the views in a short time. The crystal clear water is home to endangered species of fish and turtles, which can be seen in the river with keen eyesight.

These amazing things “grow” in the underground river of the island

A little lighting and it will be just like in the Reed Flute Cave in China

The island of Palawan is not rich in sights and monuments; nature is much more important here: endless azure shores, sandy and stone white beaches. In a word, calm and only calm. Despite the long and thorny path to the island, your expectations will be justified. If you dream of being alone with yourself in the lap of nature, then this place is ideal for relaxation.

If you have time, you can also visit the island of Mactan, where the legendary navigator Ferdinand Magellan was killed, but a monument was erected to his killer, Chief Lapu-Lapu.

Palawan Island in the photo

Emerald Valley of Palawan Island

Here you can swim or dive with a mask or scuba gear to the bottom

Suspension bridge on Palawan island. Not as long as the Capilano Bridge in Canada, but also interesting.