12 Days Ultimate Philippines Palawan & Coron

Planning a trip to Palawan and Coron? This 12-day tour offers a comprehensive look at some of the Philippines’ most breathtaking sights, perfect for travelers who want a mix of beaches, underwater wonders, and cultural highlights. Conducted in small groups, it strikes a nice balance between guided ease and authentic exploration.

One of the things we love about this experience is how it manages to cover diverse terrains and attractions without feeling rushed. From the UNESCO-listed Underground River to serene lagoons and wreck diving sites, there’s plenty of variety packed into a manageable itinerary. That said, the tour’s busy schedule and multiple ferry rides might be tiring for some, especially those who prefer slow-paced, luxury-focused travels.

This trip suits adventurous travelers eager to see the highlights of Palawan and Coron, especially those who appreciate small-group experiences, cultural insights, and natural beauty. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to see a lot in a short time, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Comprehensive coverage: The tour hits major highlights like Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron, including iconic sites like the Underground River and Kayangan Lake.
• Value-packed: With all tickets, ferries, and some meals included, it offers a good bang for your buck considering the extensive itinerary.
• Small-group experience: Limited to 8 travelers, which ensures more personalized attention from guides and easier group logistics.
• Balanced mix of activities: From island hopping and snorkeling to cultural visits and nature parks, there’s something for all.
• Seasonal considerations: Sea conditions can affect some tours, especially island hopping, so flexibility is key.
• Authentic and practical: Guides are knowledgeable, and the trip includes both natural wonders and local cultural insights.

An In-Depth Look at the 12-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Puerto Princesa

Arriving in Palawan’s capital, you’re greeted at the airport and taken to your hotel. This first day is ideal for settling in, perhaps taking a quick walk around the city or relaxing after your flight. Puerto Princesa is celebrated for its underground river, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its vibrant local life. The tour description mentions this as a key attraction, but you’ll visit here later in the trip. For now, it’s a good starting point to absorb the lush surroundings and get a feel for Palawan’s peaceful vibe.

Day 2: Honda Bay Island Hopping

This full-day adventure is a highlight for beach lovers. The boat trip departs from Santa Lourdes Wharf, taking you to Starfish Island, Cowrie Island, and Luli Island. Expect clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling, along with opportunities for water sports like banana boat rides, kayaking, and jet skiing on Cowrie Island.

What’s particularly nice here is the variety of activities available—some travelers mentioned the crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches as exceptional, and the chance to see starfish and colorful marine life. The included lunch on Cowrie Island is a bonus, giving you a chance to chill under coconut trees or explore the small shops.

Luli Island is famous for its waters disappearing during high tide, creating a unique experience as you walk across sandbars or jump off diving boards at low tide.

Day 3: Underground River Tour

The highlight of Puerto Princesa is undoubtedly the Underground River National Park. The 45-minute boat ride through the limestone cave reveals impressive stalactites and stalagmites and potential wildlife like swallows and bats. It’s a UNESCO site for a reason, and many find their visit to be genuinely awe-inspiring.

The tour’s timing allows you to appreciate the natural geological formations while imagining the animals and figures that locals say resemble religious symbols or animals. It’s a must-see for nature lovers and those interested in geology or caves.

Day 4: From Puerto Princesa to Port Barton

Depending on the season, you’ll have a chance to see whale sharks from April to September at the Puerto Princesa Baywalk Park—an unforgettable experience for wildlife enthusiasts.

Before leaving Puerto Princesa, the trip includes stops at Baker’s Hill for local pastries and the Butterfly Ecological Garden to learn about butterflies and indigenous cultures. These visits add a touch of local flavor and a break from the travel day.

The drive to Port Barton takes roughly 3 hours, and once there, you’ll find a relaxed, less-developed town perfect for unwinding. The quiet beaches and laid-back atmosphere make it a good contrast to the busier Puerto Princesa.

Day 5: Port Barton Island Hopping

Port Barton’s less touristy, more natural vibe is its main charm. The island-hopping tour here is designed to embrace the untouched beauty, taking you to Twin Reef, Exotic Island, Turtle Spot, and Paradise Island. These spots are ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing.

Travelers have noted the tour lasts about 8 hours, which might sound long but allows plenty of time to explore and take photos. The boat is well-equipped with safety gear, and the tour can shift slightly depending on weather—good to keep in mind.

Day 6: Transfer to El Nido

The drive from Port Barton to El Nido takes about 3-4 hours. El Nido is famous worldwide for its jaw-dropping lagoons and limestone cliffs. Arriving here, you’ll see why it’s considered one of the Philippines’ most beautiful destinations.

The rest of the day is free for you to explore El Nido town, enjoy a local meal, or simply relax on the beach. Many travelers appreciate the opportunity to soak in the sunset views, which are often called some of the best in the world.

Day 7 and 8: El Nido Island Hopping (Tour A and Helicopter Island)

These days are all about breathtaking scenery and snorkeling. Tour A takes you to Miniloc Island’s lagoons, including the famous Big Lagoon, which offers peaceful waters and dramatic limestone formations. Shimizu Island’s coral reefs are a snorkeler’s dream, with vibrant marine life.

Helicopter Island (Dilumacad Island) is famous for its limestone cliffs that resemble a helicopter from afar. Expect stunning beaches and good snorkeling, with some reviews mentioning the chance to see sea turtles during the right season.

Travelers love the diverse landscapes—from lagoons and caves to powdery beaches—making each stop feel like a new postcard scene.

Day 9: Ferry to Coron

After a ferry ride (about 4-5 hours), you arrive in Coron, known for its World War II wrecks and crystal-clear lakes. The ferry itself is a scenic journey, with many noting it’s a smooth, comfortable ride despite the open sea.

The transfer to the hotel in Coron Town is straightforward, setting you up for the island adventures ahead. Coron’s combination of history, underwater wrecks, and natural lakes makes it a diver and snorkeler’s paradise.

Day 10 and 11: Coron Island Hopping

The iconic Kayangan Lake is a must-see, often called the cleanest lake in the Philippines. Its clear waters and limestone surrounds are perfect for photos and relaxing swims. The boat ride and short trek are generally manageable, with many travelers describing the site as breathtaking.

Pass Island offers a secluded white-sand beach experience, ideal for unwinding, while Lusong Coral Garden and the Lusong Gunboat wreck provide fantastic snorkeling opportunities. The wreck is shallow enough to explore easily, even for less experienced snorkelers, and the coral garden is vibrant and sprawling.

Day 12: Departure

Your driver will transfer you back to the airport, concluding your 12-day adventure. The trip offers a rundown of Palawan and Coron, balancing natural wonders, cultural sights, and relaxing beach time.

Overall Value and Experience

This tour is priced at $755, which, considering all entrance fees, ferry rides, accommodations, and some meals, makes it quite competitive. The inclusion of all major attractions and guided support ensures you get the most out of your trip without the hassle of planning every detail.

The small group size (max 8 travelers) means more personalized attention from guides, who are notably knowledgeable and enthusiastic according to reviews. This makes a considerable difference in understanding the sites and feeling connected to the places you visit.

Traveling between locations involves ferry rides and drives, which means some days are busier and more travel-heavy. For some, this might be a downside, especially if you prefer luxury or leisure over a packed schedule. However, the trade-off is the chance to see a wide variety of highlights in a short time, which is perfect for first-time visitors or those with limited time.

It’s also important to note the seasonal sensitivity of activities, especially island hopping, which can be affected by weather. Flexibility from guides helps ensure safety and enjoyment, but travelers should be prepared for possible changes.

Who’s This Tour Best For?

If you’re eager to experience the best of Palawan and Coron without the stress of organizing each activity, this tour offers good value and a well-rounded itinerary. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers who want guided exploration, active days, and cultural insights—ideal for those who enjoy a mix of relaxation and adventure.

Those who appreciate small-group settings and knowledgeable guides will find this experience rewarding. It’s also suitable for travelers looking for a budget-friendly option that covers multiple major sites.

However, if your ideal trip involves luxury accommodations, long leisure days, or a very slow pace, this might not be the best fit. The schedule is packed, and the focus is on seeing as much as possible.

FAQ

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered, and the tour starts at 8:00 am, making it easy to plan your arrival.

Are all entrance tickets included?
Most attraction tickets, including the Underground River, island hopping, and lagoons, are included in the price.

What meals are included?
Breakfast is included on 11 days, and 7 lunches are also covered, saving you from extra meal expenses.

Can I participate if I’m not an experienced traveler?
Yes, the tour is designed for most travelers, but be prepared for some travel-heavy days and boat rides.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Are the activities suitable for children?
Most activities are family-friendly, but some excursions like snorkeling and boat rides require basic comfort with water.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The itinerary may be adjusted due to weather, especially for island hopping and sea activities.

What should I bring?
Swimsuit, sunscreen, hat, waterproof camera, and cash for personal expenses.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The small group size makes it a friendly option for solo adventurers looking for company.

To sum it up, this 12-day Palawan and Coron tour strikes a practical balance between adventure, natural beauty, and cultural discovery. It’s an excellent way to see the highlights efficiently and comfortably, especially if you’re eager to tick off iconic sites and enjoy the Philippines’ incredible landscapes and underwater worlds without the hassle of independent planning. Perfect for first-time visitors, adventure seekers, and those on a budget, it offers a memorable, authentic experience of Palawan’s best.