The best months to visit Puerto Princesa are Nov – May. Dry season, calmer seas.
Quick facts
Currency PHP (Peso) 1 USD ≈ 56 PHP
Language Filipino / English English widely spoken
Timezone PHT (UTC+8) Philippine Time
Best Months Nov – May Dry season, calmer seas
Daily Budget ~$25–55 USD Budget to mid-range
Visa Visa-free 30 days Most nationalities, extendable
When to go
Gateway to Palawan, where an underground river flows through a mountain, fireflies light up mangrove forests, and island hopping is a way of life.
Getting Around in Puerto Princesa
- Tricycles are the primary local transport: shared rides (10–15 PHP) run set routes, special (private) rides cost 50–150 PHP depending on distance
- For the Underground River and Honda Bay, organised tours include transport. Independent visits require renting a scooter (500 PHP/day) or hiring a private tricycle
- Multicabs (jeepney-like vehicles) run fixed routes within the city for 8 PHP. Vans to El Nido and Port Barton depart from San Jose Terminal
For itineraries, costs and practical travel advice, see the full Puerto Princesa travel guide.
Timezone: PHT (UTC+8) (Philippine Time)
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Puerto Princesa?
The best months to visit Puerto Princesa are Nov – May (Dry season, calmer seas), which makes for the most comfortable conditions for sightseeing and getting around. For what a trip costs day to day, see the Puerto Princesa budget breakdown.
