Palawan Highlights 4 Days Ultimate Getaway

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, limestone cliffs, and secret beaches, the Palawan Highlights 4 Days Ultimate Getaway might just be your ticket. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed itinerary, glowing reviews, and thoughtful inclusions suggest it’s a well-rounded introduction to one of the most breathtaking parts of the Philippines.

What we love about this experience is its focus on diverse landscapes—from underground rivers to island-hopping adventures—offering a genuine taste of Palawan’s natural wonders. The affordable price point makes it accessible for many travelers, especially considering the comprehensive activities packed into just four days. Plus, the convenience of organized transfers and guided tours helps take the stress out of travel logistics.

However, a potential consideration is the intensity and timing—with daily activities running around 7 hours, some might find it a bit hurried, especially if you prefer more relaxed pace. This tour suits adventurers, nature lovers, and first-time visitors eager to see Palawan’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning each detail.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 4-day itinerary designed to showcase Palawan’s top highlights, including underground rivers and island-hopping adventures.
• All-included activities and transfers simplify logistics, making it ideal for travelers wanting a hassle-free experience.
• Group size capped at 25, ensuring a more intimate and manageable tour group.
• Affordable price for the value, especially with multiple included tours and meals.
• Flexible booking and cancellation policies offer peace of mind.
• Authentic experiences with opportunities for swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, and sightseeing—all in one package.

Introduction to Palawan’s Natural Magic

Palawan is often regarded as the jewel of the Philippines, thanks to its dramatic limestone formations, crystal-clear waters, and lush jungles. This 4-day tour promises a curated glimpse into the island’s most photogenic and awe-inspiring sites, blending landscapes, marine life, and cultural highlights.

What makes this tour appealing is its blend of adventure and relaxation—you’ll explore underground rivers, paddle through lagoons, and lounge at pristine beaches. It’s a well-balanced mixture that caters to travelers who want to tick off multiple bucket-list spots in a short time.

While the itinerary is packed, the use of organized transportation and shared tours keeps things moving smoothly, which is crucial when covering so many different locations. The inclusion of lunches and entrance fees adds to the convenience, removing the need for extra planning or cash.

Day 1: Puerto Princesa Underground River

The trip kicks off with the highlight of Puerto Princesa—the UNESCO-listed Underground River. This is a definite must-see, renowned for its spectacular limestone caves and biodiverse surroundings. Expect a journey that combines about 1.5 hours in a van from the airport plus a 20-30 minute boat ride to access the cave.

Inside, you’ll glide through 8.2 kilometers of underground tunnels, passing stalactite and stalagmite formations that look like sculptures shaped by time and water. The experience isn’t just a visual feast; it also offers insight into the geological marvels that have shaped the landscape.

A reviewer, Ricky, mentioned how Sia Travels made everything seamless, from hotel pickup to the boat ride, which is a relief considering the logistics involved. The tour lasts around 7 hours, giving you ample time to soak in the marvels before heading back.

What to note: The admission ticket is included, but be prepared for potential crowds during peak hours. Early booking ensures a smooth experience.

Day 2: The Journey to El Nido

Traveling from Puerto Princesa to El Nido is a key part of the adventure. The tour offers a shared AC van transfer that takes around 5 hours, with two stops along the way, providing opportunities for breaks and photos. You can choose your schedule between early morning or late afternoon, which adds flexibility.

One thing that stood out in reviews is how straightforward the transfer was—one reviewer, Ricky, appreciated being picked up directly from his hotel, removing the usual stress of finding transport. It’s worth noting that this leg is quite a long drive, so packing snacks or entertainment helps make the trip more comfortable.

This transfer is a crucial piece of the puzzle, since El Nido is known for its breathtaking island vistas and is a highlight of the trip. The journey itself offers a glimpse into Palawan’s rural charm, with scenic views and local villages.

Day 3: Island Hopping in El Nido (Tour A)

The third day is all about exploring five stunning islands—a classic El Nido experience. The day begins around 8:30-9:00 am, with pickup from your hotel within the town proper or nearby areas like Corong-Corong.

You’ll visit Big Lagoon for kayaking, perfect for those who love a peaceful paddle with spectacular limestone cliffs overhead. Shimizu Island offers opportunities for swimming and snorkeling, while the Secret Lagoon is a true jewel—hidden and serene, it’s great for both sightseeing and a refreshing dip.

7 Commando Beach is a lively spot ideal for swimming or just relaxing on the sand. Payong-Payong Island adds variety with more swimming and scenic views.

Reviews highlight the stunning scenery—one reviewer emphasized how much they appreciated the chance to kayak and snorkel among pristine coral gardens. However, since there’s no drop-off at the end of the tour, you’ll need to hop on a tricycle or arrange your own transportation back to your accommodation.

What to love: The diversity of sights packed into one day—lagoon, coral reefs, beaches, and secret spots—offers great value for the price.

Day 4: Exploring New Islands in El Nido

The final day continues with another island-hopping adventure, visiting Helicopter Island, Secret Beach, and Hidden Beach, among others. This tour again runs from around 8:30-9:00 am to 4:00 pm, giving you plenty of time to explore and relax.

Helicopter Island is famous for its unique shape and untouched beaches—perfect for lounging or swimming. Secret Beach and Hidden Beach are tucked away, offering private spots for swimming and photo ops, with fewer crowds.

This day’s activities are similar to Day 3—swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing—so expect another day of sun, sand, and sea. Again, no accommodation drop-off is provided, so plan for your return.

Reviewers mention the “stunning views” at each stop, emphasizing how these unspoiled islands offer picture-perfect moments that linger long after the trip ends.

Included and Excluded: What You Get

The tour package offers a lot of value: all shared activities, transportation, and meals are covered, including entrance fees for the Underground River and the island-hopping tours.

However, some extras are not included, such as PPS Environmental Fees, El Nido Lagoon Fees, and kayak or snorkeling equipment. These are common additional costs in many tours, so it’s worth budgeting a bit extra or bringing your own gear if you have it.

One reviewer pointed out that the tour is “hassle-free,” thanks to the well-structured inclusions, but also noted that you’ll need to handle your own transport after some island-hopping tours, so plan accordingly.

Practical Details and Tips

• The meeting point is usually at 8:30 am, with pickups from centrally located hotels.
• The tour operates most days, with confirmation provided at booking.
• It accommodates up to 25 travelers, creating a balance between group socialization and personal space.
• The price of $160 per person is competitive, especially considering the comprehensive itinerary and meals.
• The cancellation policy is flexible—full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• Most activities are suitable for all travelers, with plenty of opportunities to swim and relax.

Who Would Appreciate This Tour?

This 4-day package is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a broad yet authentic look at Palawan’s highlights without the hassle of planning individual activities. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy active days with plenty of swimming and sightseeing, but also value organized logistics that save time and stress.

Nature lovers will enjoy the stunning vistas and biodiversity, while those looking for social, group experiences will appreciate the small group size and shared activities. If you prefer a very relaxed pace or private tours, you might find this tour a bit structured, but for most, it offers excellent value and memorable moments.

Final Thoughts

This tour essentially condenses Palawan’s most famous sites into a manageable four-day adventure, making it a fantastic choice for travelers eager to see the best of the area with minimal fuss. The combination of underground rivers, island-hopping, and scenic landscapes delivers a well-rounded experience that captures the essence of Palawan’s natural beauty.

The included meals, transfers, and entrance fees add up to a comprehensive package that prioritizes value and convenience. While a busy schedule might not suit those seeking complete relaxation or more personalized pacing, for most adventurers, this tour offers a spectacular overview of Palawan’s top sights.

If you’re after a fun, scenic, and worry-free way to explore Palawan’s iconic islands and caves, this trip provides a solid foundation for unforgettable memories.

FAQ

What’s included in the tour?
The tour covers all shared activities, transfers, entrance fees for the Underground River, and three lunches, making it a convenient all-in-one experience.

How long is the travel from Puerto Princesa to El Nido?
The journey takes about 5 hours by shared AC van, with two stops for breaks or photos.

Are the island-hopping tours suitable for non-swimmers?
Most activities involve swimming and snorkeling, so some comfort in water is recommended. However, guided tours often offer options for those less confident swimmers.

Can I book the tour last minute?
Booking on average happens about 66 days in advance, but check availability directly—last-minute bookings might be possible depending on the season.

Is transportation arranged after the island-hopping tours?
After the tours, there’s no official drop-off back to accommodations, so you’ll need to organize your own ride, like a tricycle.

Are there any additional fees I should prepare for?
Yes, expect to pay for the PPS Environmental Fee, El Nido Lagoon Fee, and optional equipment rentals like snorkeling gear or kayaks.

Is this tour suitable for families or seniors?
While most activities are suitable for all ages, the long travel times and active nature might require some consideration for young children or elderly travelers.

This four-day journey through Palawan offers a balanced mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and convenience—perfect for those wanting a memorable escape without the hassle of multi-leg planning.