Puerto Princesa Palawan 3days tour with room accomodation

Planning a trip to Palawan often means dreaming of crystal-clear waters, lush landscapes, and unforgettable adventures. If you’re looking for a well-rounded experience that combines natural wonders with cultural insights, the Puerto Princesa 3-day tour offers a compelling package. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, extensive reviews and detailed itineraries paint a clear picture of what to expect.

What we love about this tour is its balanced mix of iconic sights and authentic local experiences, the convenience of inclusive transportation and guided tours, and the value for money at just under $180 per person. The highlight—and rightly so—is the visit to the UNESCO-listed Underground River, a true marvel of nature. The island hopping, city tours, and cultural stops round out a comprehensive itinerary designed for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

One aspect to consider is that the tour is non-refundable, so it’s best suited for those with firm travel plans. Given the small group size of a maximum of 12 people, it’s intimate enough for a personal experience but still offers the opportunity to meet fellow travelers. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a family, or a group of friends, this tour aims to deliver an engaging and hassle-free Palawan experience.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering the Underground River, island hopping, and city sights
• All-inclusive package, including transport, entrance fees, guides, and meals
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and smoother logistics
• Optioned accommodations cater to different budgets, offering both economy and standard hotels
• Authentic local experiences like Baker’s Hill and wildlife conservation centers
• Good value given the inclusiveness and quality of sites visited

An Overview of the Experience

This 3-day package promises a well-rounded exploration of Puerto Princesa, blending nature, culture, and leisure. For travelers keen on seeing the best of Palawan without the hassle of planning each detail, the tour’s inclusions—van transport, entrance fees, tour guides, boat transfers, buffet lunch—offer a smooth, guided experience.

The cost of $179.49 per person is reasonable considering the extensive itinerary and all the logistics covered. Plus, the small group size means you’re not lost in a crowd, and guides can tailor insights to your interests.

What’s Included and Why It Matters

The tour includes airport transfers, accommodation, and city tours, reducing the stress of logistics. For travelers arriving in Puerto Princesa, that means you can start your adventure immediately without worrying about transportation.

The Underground River excursion is the star attraction—admission is included, and the experience involves caving and sightseeing with a delicious buffet lunch. The river, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the 7 Wonders of Nature, is often described as breathtaking. Reviewers mention the guide’s knowledge and the neat, clean setup, which enhances the overall experience.

The Island hopping in Honda Bay offers swimming and snorkeling with clear waters and vibrant marine life. Expect to spend about 8 hours here, which allows ample time to relax, sunbathe, or snorkel along the scenic islands.

City Tour Highlights

Beyond nature, the tour offers a half-day city tour that includes Baker’s Hill, where travelers enjoy local snacks and picturesque views, and the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center, where you can see crocodiles and endangered species up close. The Palawan Baywalk Park provides a quick photo session, perfect for capturing memories, while Plaza Cuartel offers insights into the region’s WWII history.

In-Depth: What to Expect at Each Stop

Puerto Princesa Underground River

The flagship attraction of this tour, the Underground River, is accessible through a boat transfer that takes you into a cavernous world of stalactites, stalagmites, and underground tunnels. The admission fee is included, and most travelers find the experience awe-inspiring. Expect a guided tour that offers commentary on the geology, history, and ecological significance of the river.

Reviewers highlight that the guide’s expertise adds depth to the experience. One mentioned, “The guides were very knowledgeable, making the whole trip informative as well as stunning.” The caving aspect involves some walking and boat rides, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Honda Bay Island Hopping

This part of the tour is ideal if you love swimming and snorkeling. The islands feature crystal-clear waters and coral reefs teeming with marine life, perfect for a relaxing day in nature. The buffet lunch included offers local dishes that fuel you for the day. Expect to spend about 8 hours soaking up sun and sea. Reviewers comment that the boat transfer was smooth and the islands picturesque.

Baker’s Hill and City Sights

Baker’s Hill is more than a bakery—it’s a colorful, lively spot where you can enjoy snacks, buy souvenirs, and take photos of the panoramic views. It’s a quick stop (30 minutes), but one that’s appreciated for its relaxed vibe and local flavor.

The Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center is a favorite among animal lovers; it provides a chance to see crocodiles and endangered species up close. The one-hour visit is educational and entertaining, with guides explaining conservation efforts, which adds a meaningful dimension to the trip.

The Baywalk Park and Plaza Cuartel offer quick but photogenic stops, rounding out the cultural experience and giving you a glimpse of Puerto Princesa’s history.

Travel Logistics: Comfort, Timing, and Group Size

Transportation is via van, offering a comfortable way to travel between sites, with pickup included—a nice convenience for arriving travelers. The small group limit of 12 means you’ll get more personalized attention and fewer crowds. The start time at 1:00 pm is ideal if you’re arriving on the day of the tour, allowing for a relaxed morning or airport pickup.

Duration is around 8 hours each for the Underground River and Honda Bay tours, giving you enough time to enjoy each without feeling rushed. The city tour is shorter but still packed with highlights. The 3-night accommodation provides a good base, with options for economy or standard hotels to suit different budgets.

Accommodation Options

While the specific hotels are not mentioned, the package offers two options—economy or standard. This flexibility allows you to choose based on your priorities: value versus comfort. Reviewers noted the lodging was neat and clean, contributing positively to the overall experience.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

One reviewer praised the hassle-free transaction and the neat, clean setup, making it ideal for families or groups seeking a peaceful retreat after busy sightseeing. Another mentioned the knowledgeable guides that enriched their trip, emphasizing the importance of having insightful commentary during the river and wildlife visits.

Many travelers appreciated the value for money, considering how much was packed into the itinerary, especially with meals, entrance fees, and transfers included. The small group size was highlighted for making the experience more personal and less commercial.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Puerto Princesa 3-day tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation, making it perfect for those who want a comprehensive Palawan experience without the hassle of organizing each detail. The inclusions ensure you won’t need to worry about extra costs, and the small group size guarantees a more private experience.

It’s especially suited for travelers who value authentic encounters—from the awe of the Underground River to the charm of local sites like Baker’s Hill—and appreciate good value. The professional guides, well-organized logistics, and beautiful sites make this a compelling choice for families, groups, or solo travelers seeking a hassle-free adventure.

However, be aware that this package is non-refundable, so it’s best for those with firm plans. If weather is a concern, the tour’s flexibility to reschedule or refund adds peace of mind.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is pickup included in this tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup, making it easy to start your adventure without arranging separate transport.

How long are the main activities?
The Underground River and Honda Bay tours each last about 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each site. The city tour is approximately 1-2 hours.

What accommodation options are available?
You can choose between economy and standard hotels, both of which are noted as neat and clean according to reviews.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Absolutely. The small group size and well-organized itinerary make it family-friendly, with a variety of activities to suit different ages.

What’s the main highlight of this tour?
The UNESCO-listed Underground River is the standout feature, complemented by island hopping and cultural stops.

Are meals included?
Yes, a buffet lunch is included during the Honda Bay island hopping day, offering a taste of local cuisine.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be given an alternative date or a full refund.

This detailed review aims to help you decide whether this Puerto Princesa tour aligns with your travel style and expectations. With its mix of adventure, culture, and convenience, it promises to be a memorable part of your Palawan journey.