Quick facts
Budget breakdown
| Category | Budget | Midrange |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | 500–1,000 PHP | 1,500–3,000 PHP |
| Food | 300–500 PHP | 600–1,200 PHP |
| Transport | 100–300 PHP | 300–800 PHP |
| Activities | 0–500 PHP | 1,500–2,500 PHP |
| Daily Total | 900–2,300 PHP | 3,900–7,500 PHP |
Daily per-person estimates. Costs vary by season and travel style.
Practical info
Entry & Visas
- Most nationalities receive 30-day visa-free entry to the Philippines — extendable to 59 days at immigration offices. Longer stays require a tourist visa
- Puerto Princesa Airport (PPS) has direct flights from Manila (1.5 hours), Cebu (1.5 hours), and Clark. Budget carriers Cebu Pacific and AirAsia fly this route
- An Eco-Tourism Development Fee (ETDF) of 150 PHP is collected at the airport on arrival — keep the receipt as you may need it for tour bookings
Health & Safety
- Puerto Princesa has Ospital ng Palawan (government hospital) and several private clinics. Serious cases may require evacuation to Manila — travel insurance is essential
- Mosquitoes carry dengue — use DEET repellent, especially at dusk. Tap water is not drinkable; use purified water from refill stations or sealed bottles
- Puerto Princesa is one of the safest cities in the Philippines. Standard precautions apply: watch belongings in crowded areas, lock valuables in your room, be aware of tricycle pricing
Getting Around
- 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
Connectivity
- Globe and Smart SIM cards available at the airport and Rizal Avenue shops — 300 PHP for 10GB data. Coverage is good in the city but spotty on remote beaches
- Wi-Fi in hotels and cafes is generally reliable but slow by Western standards. Download maps and content before heading to the Underground River or Honda Bay
- There is no mobile signal inside the Underground River cave or on some Honda Bay islands — tell people your plans before heading out
Money
- ATMs (BDO, BPI, Metrobank, Landbank) are available on Rizal Avenue. Most accept international cards with 200–250 PHP withdrawal fee. Daily limit is usually 10,000–20,000 PHP
- Cash is essential — most tour operators, tricycle drivers, restaurants, and smaller shops are cash-only. Card acceptance is limited to hotels and a few upscale restaurants
- Change money at banks or licensed money changers on Rizal Avenue. Airport rates are slightly worse but convenient for initial cash
Packing Tips
- Pack lightweight, breathable clothing — Palawan is hot and humid year-round (28–34°C). A light rain jacket is useful during wet season (June–October)
- Reef shoes and a rash guard are essential for island hopping and snorkelling. Reef-safe sunscreen protects both you and the coral
- Bring a dry bag for boat trips — outrigger boats splash in choppy water and electronics need protection. A headlamp is useful for the firefly tour and cave visits
Cultural tips
Filipino Warmth
Filipinos are famously friendly and hospitable — expect warm smiles, offers of help, and genuine interest in where you are from. Return the kindness. "Salamat po" (thank you, with respect) goes a long way.
Environmental Stewardship
Palawan was voted the world's most beautiful island multiple times and locals are proud of their natural heritage. Do not litter, do not take shells or coral, and use reef-safe sunscreen. Palawan's beauty depends on every visitor's respect.
Mano Po Greeting
The traditional Filipino greeting to elders is "mano po" — taking an elder's hand and pressing it to your forehead as a sign of respect. You may see this at family gatherings. A smile and "po" added to phrases shows respect.
Indigenous Communities
Palawan is home to several indigenous peoples including the Tagbanua and Batak. Their ancestral lands are protected by law. If you encounter indigenous communities, ask permission before photographing and respect their territories.
Karaoke Culture
Filipinos love karaoke — don't be surprised to hear singing from restaurants, homes, and even tricycles. If invited to sing, join in regardless of talent. Enthusiasm matters more than ability. It is a shared cultural joy.
