Optional Tours Palawan: Puerto Princesa , El Nido & Coron Tours

Planning a trip to Palawan? You’re in for a treat. With options spanning from underground rivers to stunning lagoons and vibrant island life, this 5-day tour package offers a balanced taste of Palawan’s natural beauty and local culture. Priced at just $44 per person, it’s a surprisingly accessible way to unlock some of the island’s most iconic sights, especially if you love packed itineraries and varied experiences.

One of the things we really appreciate about these tours is how they combine both adventure and cultural insights—you’ll get to see wildlife reserves, historical sites, and pristine beaches all in a well-organized timeframe. Plus, the inclusion of transportation and entrance fees makes planning easier, so you can focus on soaking up the sights.

A potential consideration? Some activities, like the underground river, are lengthy and involve early mornings, so they might not suit travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace. Also, since some tours can be affected by weather, flexibility is key.

If you’re after a comprehensive, value-packed experience that showcases Palawan’s diverse landscape—from underground caverns to turquoise lagoons—this tour package could be just what you need. It’s especially ideal for first-timers wanting a broad overview without the hassle of booking individual excursions.

Key Points

• Varied Destinations: Includes city tours, island hopping, underground river, and lagoons.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Fees, entrance tickets, and transport are covered, simplifying logistics.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights.
• Flexible Options: Multiple tours in El Nido and Coron cater to different interests.
• Duration & Timing: Well-structured to maximize sightseeing within 5 days.
• Suitability: Great for travelers wanting a mix of adventure, nature, and culture.

A Detailed Look at the 5-Day Palawan Tour

Day 1: Exploring Puerto Princesa

The adventure begins with a comprehensive city tour of Puerto Princesa. Picking you up from your hotel, the guide begins by showing off the city’s highlights, including the Palawan Wildlife Rescue & Conservation Center, Plaza Cuartel, and the Cathedral. These sites offer a glimpse into local history and flora and fauna.

What we liked was how the guide kept the tone lively and informative, adding little stories about each site that made the sightseeing more engaging. The visit to Rancho Santa Monica and Bakers Hill adds a relaxing, local flavor—perfect for those wanting to experience everyday Palawan life. Plus, the Binuatan Creations stop is a great chance for souvenir shopping, especially for those interested in local crafts.

Day 2: The Underground River Experience

This is the tour that often makes the trip memorable—the Puerto Princesa Underground River. The excursion begins early with a van pickup, heading out to Sabang. The drive itself is scenic, and once at the port, a boat whisks you to the river.

The underground river is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s easy to see why. The cavern’s formations and the mysterious darkness beneath the limestone cliffs create a sense of wonder. Many reviews mention the small monkeys spotted along the way, adding an element of wildlife interaction.

The tour is approximately 8 hours, and the inclusion of admission tickets ensures no unexpected costs. Some travelers note that this tour is best avoided on the day of arrival, especially if flights are delayed, to avoid rushing or missing out.

Day 3: Island Hopping at Honda Bay

By day three, it’s time to relax and soak up some sun. The Honda Bay island hopping tour begins early, with a pick-up between 7:00 and 7:30 am. The boat takes you to Starfish Island, Luli Island, and Cowrie Island—the usual stops, but each offers its own charm.

Expect to enjoy white sand beaches, snorkeling, and swimming in clear waters. Some reviews mention that weather conditions can alter the itinerary—so don’t be surprised if the plan shifts to Pandan Island or other spots depending on the day’s weather. The guide’s flexibility is crucial here.

This tour is a fantastic way to see multiple islands in a short period, and many travelers find it great value considering the cost includes boat rides, transfers, and lunch.

Day 4: El Nido’s Tour A – Lagoon, Snorkeling & Beaches

El Nido steals the show with its dramatic limestone formations and turquoise waters. Tour A is particularly popular because it combines two lagoons—Big Lagoon and Secret Lagoon—and a stop at Shimizu Island for snorkeling.

The lagoons are the highlight, with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and spotting fish. Reviewers often mention how the guides’ knowledge about the best snorkeling spots made the day more enjoyable. The limestone cliffs surrounding the lagoons create a surreal backdrop, giving you that postcard-perfect scene.

Lunch on Shimizu Island offers a break from water activities, and the spot’s white sands are suitable for relaxing or exploring. The trip ends at 7 Commando Beach, where you might see sea turtles while snorkeling, according to some reviews.

Day 5: El Nido’s Tour B – Snake Island, Entalula & Paradise Beaches

The final day in El Nido offers a different flavor with Tour B, focusing on Vigan (Snake) Island, Pinagbuyutan (Ellis Island), and Entalula Beach. The famous sandbar at Snake Island is a unique experience, walking in the middle of the sea.

Many travelers rave about the long, white sandy beaches and the opportunity to relax after days of activity. Snorkeling at the coral-rich waters around Ellis Island and Entalula Beach often stands out in reviews, with some pointing out the ease of access and high-quality reefs.

The geological formations and secluded beaches make this tour a fantastic end to your island-hopping adventure, especially if you love stunning landscapes and marine life.

Coron Tours: Wrecks, Reefs & Safari

For those extending their stay, Coron offers a mix of wreck dives, island visits, and wildlife safaris. The Coron Island Tour A and B explore iconic limestone formations and wreck sites—perfect for lovers of history and underwater adventures.

The Reefs and Wrecks Tour is particularly talked about for its marine biodiversity and the chance to see World War II wrecks, which many reviews highlight as a highlight. The Calauit Safari Tour introduces a different side of Palawan—wildlife encounters at the Calauit Safari Sanctuary.

What You Should Know

• Transportation: The tours include van transfers, boat rides, and sometimes helicopter views, providing comfort and convenience.
• Guides: Expect knowledgeable guides who are eager to share their local insights, making the experience more meaningful.
• Group Size: Tours can accommodate up to 1,000 travelers—so expect a lively, group atmosphere but still manageable.
• Additional Costs: Most entrance fees are included, but optional activities like ziplining or additional stops might incur extra charges.
• Weather Considerations: Weather can influence the itinerary, especially for island hopping and snorkeling trips, so some flexibility is necessary.
• Booking in Advance: Tours are usually booked about 31 days ahead, reflecting their popularity.

The Sum Up

This multi-day tour package in Palawan offers an excellent balance of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. It’s best suited for travelers who want to maximize their time on the island without the hassle of planning every detail. The inclusion of major sights like the underground river and lagoons ensures you see some of Palawan’s most iconic landscapes, while the variety of tours in El Nido and Coron provides options tailored to different interests—whether you’re into snorkeling, wildlife, or history.

The value for money is clear when you consider transportation, entrance fees, and guided expertise bundled into a single package. The guides’ local knowledge and the quality of the scenery, especially during island hopping and lagoon visits, leave a lasting impression.

However, be prepared for early mornings, potential weather shifts, and groups of varying sizes. If you’re adaptable and eager to explore, this tour offers an immersive, well-rounded Palawan experience that covers both the must-see highlights and some off-the-beaten-path gems.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Consider their comfort with boat rides and walking involved.

Are meals included in the tour?
Yes. The island hopping and lagoon tours include lunch, which saves you the hassle of finding food during busy days.

How long are the tours each day?
Each day’s activities are typically around 8 hours, packed with sightseeing and travel, so expect full days.

Will I see wildlife during these tours?
Yes. You might spot small monkeys near Sabang and sea turtles near beaches, based on reviews and local habitat.

Is there flexibility in the itinerary?
Weather conditions may cause shifts in plans, especially for island hopping, so guides tend to be flexible.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, waterproof camera, and some snacks. Some tours include stops at beaches for relaxing.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Most tours are booked about 31 days in advance, but check availability closer to your travel date.

Are airport transfers included?
This package focuses on tours; transfers to and from the airport are usually separate.

What’s the best way to get the most out of this experience?
Be prompt for early departures, listen carefully to guides’ tips, and bring an open mind ready for adventure and stunning views.

This set of tours provides a well-balanced, affordable way to enjoy Palawan’s stunning landscapes and vibrant culture. Whether you’re into snorkeling, wildlife, or simply relaxing on beautiful beaches, it’s a trip that packs a punch without breaking the bank.