Discover Puerto Princesa with Happiness Travel and Tours
A coastal city with a laid-back vibe, Puerto Princesa serves as both a thriving local hub and a jumping-off point for Palawan’s island adventures. Whether you’re chasing limestone caves, paddling through turquoise rivers, dining on fresh seafood by the bay, or exploring UNESCO-protected wonders, Puerto Princesa offers the perfect balance of accessibility and natural splendor. It’s not just a stopover—it’s a destination in its own right.
About Puerto Princesa:
Nestled in the middle of Palawan’s elongated shape, Puerto Princesa is the green heart of the island. It has gained international recognition primarily for the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the longest navigable underground rivers in the world. The city is also celebrated for its strong environmental policies, friendly locals, clean surroundings, and abundant biodiversity both on land and under the sea.
Aside from nature, Puerto Princesa boasts a growing food scene, cultural heritage landmarks, and community-based eco-tourism experiences. It’s also a convenient launchpad to explore nearby gems like Honda Bay, Nagtabon Beach, and rural areas where you can interact with indigenous communities.
How to get to Puerto Princesa:
Puerto Princesa is easily accessible by air and sea.
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By Air: Daily flights connect Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS) with major cities in the Philippines such as Manila, Cebu, Clark, and Davao. Travel time is approximately 1.5 hours from Manila.
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By Sea: There are ferry services from Iloilo and Manila, though travel time is significantly longer and less frequent than flying.
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Overland: If you’re exploring Palawan overland, Puerto Princesa is about 4–6 hours by van or bus from El Nido or Port Barton, making it a natural midpoint for island-hopping routes.
Best time to visit Puerto Princesa:
The best time to visit Puerto Princesa is during the dry season, from November to May, when skies are clear, seas are calm, and most tours operate without interruption.
The peak months are March to May, ideal for beach lovers and sunseekers.
Avoid the rainy season from June to November, especially if you’re planning boat tours or underground river excursions, which may be canceled due to weather conditions.
Top activities in Puerto Princesa:
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Explore the Underground River- Glide through cathedral-like limestone chambers filled with rock formations, guided only by paddle and torchlight in this natural wonder.
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Island-Hop in Honda Bay- Spend the day visiting stunning islands like Starfish Island, Pandan Island, and Cowrie Island—each offering white sand beaches, clear waters, and great snorkeling.
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Visit the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center- Also known as the Crocodile Farm, this conservation center is both educational and thrilling, showcasing Palawan’s rich fauna.
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Go Firefly Watching on the Iwahig River- A magical evening experience where fireflies light up the mangroves as you cruise quietly downriver under the stars.
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Beach Day at Nagtabon or Talaudyong- These lesser-known beaches are perfect for surfing, swimming, or relaxing without the tourist crowds.
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Dive or Snorkel in Pristine Coral Gardens- Explore vibrant marine life in dive spots just off Honda Bay or join eco-diving tours led by local experts.
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Tour Historical & Cultural Sites- Visit Plaza Cuartel, Immaculate Conception Cathedral, and the Palawan Museum to learn about the city’s World War II history and cultural roots.