2 Weeks Best of Palawan: El Nido, Coron & Puerto Princesa Beaches

Introduction

Our review focuses on a popular 14-day Palawan tour package designed for travelers seeking an adventure-filled yet well-organized escape to the Philippines’ most stunning islands. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it’s a thoughtfully crafted experience.

What we love about this tour is its comprehensive coverage—from the lively streets of Manila to the untouched beauty of Coron, El Nido, and Puerto Princesa, all wrapped into one package. The inclusion of flights, accommodations, tours, and transfers offers real convenience, reducing the stress of planning and logistics. The small group size (up to 5 travelers) promises a more personalized and intimate experience.

One minor consideration is the booking lead time of 14 days—which means planning ahead is essential if you want to secure your spot. But for those who appreciate well-organized trips with everything taken care of, this package seems perfect.

This tour suits adventurous travelers, couples, and small groups who want to see the best of Palawan without the hassle of organizing every detail themselves. If you value authentic island experiences, beautiful scenery, and professional guides, this could be your ideal getaway.

Key Points

• All-inclusive convenience with flights, hotels, transfers, and tours bundled together
• Expert guides and small groups enhance the personalized experience
• Stunning natural sights like Kayangan Lake, Hidden Beach, and the Underground River
• Value for money given the extensive itinerary and all included amenities
• Flexible free days allow for relaxation or extra exploring
• Requires 14-day booking lead time for smooth arrangements

Exploring the Itinerary and What You’ll Experience

Starting in Manila: The Gateway

Your journey kicks off in the bustling capital, Manila. The tour includes a hotel stay with easy airport transfers. Reviewers highlight the smooth start, mentioning a friendly driver who makes the transition from airport to hotel effortless. You’ll have your first taste of Filipino hospitality and the chance to unwind after your flight.

Coron: Crystal Clear Lakes and Shipwrecks

Getting to Coron involves a quick 75-minute flight from Manila. Coron is famous for its marvelous turquoise lakes and world-renowned wreck diving sites. The tour includes a Coron island hopping tour featuring Kayangan Lake, often described as one of the clearest lakes in the Philippines, and the Twin Lagoons with limestone cliffs. Expect snorkeling, kayaking, and plenty of photo ops.

One reviewer noted, “We loved the way guides explained the sites — they clearly knew their stuff,” emphasizing the value of knowledgeable guides in these areas. Coron also offers some downtime, giving you space to explore local markets, try Filipino dishes, or relax with a massage.

Malcapuya and Banana Islands: Hidden Paradises

A highlight for many is the visit to Malcapuya Island, renowned for its powdery white sands and vibrant waters. You get to swim, sunbathe, or simply take in the untouched beauty. Banana Island, with its unique shape, provides a peaceful setting for a leisurely beach walk or a quick rest. These islands are perfect for capturing Instagram-worthy photos and soaking in tranquility.

Transition to El Nido: Scenic Flight and Town Charm

The flight from Coron to El Nido offers beautiful aerial views of Palawan’s limestone formations. Upon arriving, you’ll settle into a charming town known for its breathtaking lagoons and towering cliffs. A few reviews mention how the local restaurants serve excellent seafood, making dining a pleasurable part of your stay.

El Nido’s Island Hopping Adventures

Days in El Nido are packed with excursions to hidden beaches, caves, and islands. You’ll explore sites like Hidden Beach—a favorite among travelers for its secluded atmosphere—and Matinloc Shrine, which offers panoramic views. These tours are about snorkeling, lounging on pristine sands, and discovering caves.

One reviewer called the El Nido tours “the highlight of the trip,” citing the beautiful scenery and friendly guides as key reasons why. Guides are praised for their knowledge, often providing interesting insights into the areas you visit.

Snake Island, Entalula, and Caves: Diverse Island Experiences

Your days include visits to Snake Island, famous for its long stretch of sand, and Entalula Island, with its dramatic cliffs and soft sands. The Cudugnon Cave adds a bit of history and adventure, with its impressive rock formations and potential for spotting local wildlife.

Puerto Princesa and the Underground River

After El Nido, you’ll fly to Puerto Princesa, the gateway to the UNESCO-listed Underground River. The guided boat tour through the cave system reveals spectacular stalactites and stalagmites, with many reviewers noting the fantastically immersive experience. It’s often described as a must-see, with the cave’s vast chambers and natural wonders living up to expectations.

Extra Time in Puerto Princesa

The last full day offers flexibility—whether you want to revisit favorite spots or explore more local cuisine. Some suggestions include a city tour or last-minute shopping for souvenirs.

Final Day: Returning to Manila

Your trip wraps up with a flight back to Manila, followed by a relaxing transfer to the airport. It’s a smooth end to a well-structured trip, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Palawan’s stunning landscapes.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Expert Guides and Small Groups

According to reviews, the knowledgeable guides truly elevate the experience. They’re often praised for their friendly attitude, local insights, and attention to safety. Smaller groups mean more time for personalized attention and less waiting around.

Well-Organized Logistics

The inclusion of domestic flights, airport transfers, and accommodations simplifies what could be a logistical headache. The tour ensures you spend more time enjoying the sights and less stressing over transport or planning.

Stunning, Authentic Experiences

From crystal-clear lakes to hidden beaches, each stop offers something visually spectacular. The island hopping tours are designed to maximize your time in nature, giving you ample opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing on the sand.

Food and Cultural Highlights

While meals are not extensively detailed, the tour includes daily breakfast and some lunches, giving you a taste of Filipino cuisine. The reviews mention delicious food and tapas, with local restaurants serving hearty seafood and traditional dishes.

Good Value for Money

Though the price point of around $2,144 per person might seem high, it covers nearly everything—flights, accommodations, tours, transfers, and breakfasts. For the convenience, personal guides, and access to top sights, many consider it a valuable investment.

Practical Considerations

• The 14-day lead time is important to secure your booking, so plan ahead.
• The tour is limited to a maximum of 5 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.
• Some activities, like the Underground River, require an additional fee (PHP 150), and entrance fees for sites like the Matinloc Shrine (PHP 200) are not included.
• Expect a moderate pace with a mix of active island hopping and leisure days, making it suitable for travelers comfortable with a busy schedule.

The Sum Up

This 14-day Palawan tour offers a comprehensive and well-organized way to see some of the most beautiful parts of the Philippines. With expert guides, smooth logistics, and stunning scenery, it’s particularly ideal for those who want an all-in-one experience without the hassle of planning every detail.

Travelers who value authentic island adventures, beautiful landscapes, and professional service will find this package hard to beat. The experience is perfect for small groups or couples seeking a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery.

If you’re after a convenient, thoughtfully curated trip that covers top highlights like Coron, El Nido, and the Underground River, this could be your ideal choice. Just remember to book early and prepare for a week of unforgettable sights and warm Filipino hospitality.

FAQ

What is included in this tour package?
The package includes all domestic flights with 20kg baggage allowance, accommodations with daily breakfast, transfers, and island-hopping tours in Coron and El Nido, plus the Underground River tour.

Are there any additional fees I should be aware of?
Yes, the Underground River has an environmental fee of PHP 150 per person, and the Matinloc Shrine entrance fee is PHP 200. These are not included in the package price.

Can I customize my trip?
The itinerary is set, but the flexible free days in El Nido and Puerto Princesa allow some personal exploration or relaxation.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 5 travelers, which enhances the personalized experience.

What is the best time to book?
A 14-day booking lead time is required for smooth arrangements, so plan at least two weeks in advance.

Is this suitable for families or solo travelers?
It’s mainly designed for small groups, couples, or friends, but families can also enjoy it; just check with the provider for any age restrictions.

What kind of guide support can I expect?
Guides are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and professionalism, often providing insightful commentary during tours and ensuring safety throughout.

This all-encompassing adventure through Palawan promises a memorable mix of natural beauty, seamless organization, and authentic experiences that suit those ready to explore the best of the Philippines in style.