Palawan: Puerto + El Nido + Coron – 8 Days 7 Nights

Traveling through Palawan sounds like stepping into a postcard, and this 8-day tour promises just that. It’s designed for those who want an introduction to some of the island’s most iconic sights — from underground rivers to lagoons and shipwrecks — all with the convenience of organized logistics. While the price of around $2,300 per person isn’t pocket change, the value comes in the opportunity to see some of the Philippines’ most breathtaking locations with expert guides and seamless transfers.

We love the way this tour balances cultural experiences with awe-inspiring natural beauty. You’ll get to explore historic sites like Puerto Princesa’s cathedral and Plaza Cuartel, wander through the UNESCO-listed Underground River, and hop between islands with some of the best lagoon views in El Nido. Coron’s shipwrecks and lakes add a different dimension, making this a well-rounded adventure. A potential drawback is that it’s quite fast-paced — so if you prefer a laid-back vibe, you may find the schedule busy. But if you’re eager to maximize your trip with varied highlights, this tour hits the mark. It’s best suited for travelers who love a mix of sightseeing, nature, and a touch of local culture.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary that covers Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron in just 8 days
• Includes iconic sights like the Underground River, lagoons, and shipwrecks
• All logistics handled, from pickup to transfers, making it stress-free
• For active travelers comfortable with busy days and multiple stops
• Authentic experiences with local guides sharing insights and history
• Good value considering the diversity of destinations and included activities

Introduction to the Palawan Adventure

This tour offers a taste of Palawan’s most stunning spots in a well-structured package. It’s perfect if you’re pressed for time but still want to tick off major highlights. The journey starts from Puerto Princesa, with an easy pickup and an initial exploration of the city’s historic sites. The real showstopper here is the Puerto Princesa Underground River, recognized as one of the new seven wonders of nature. It’s an absolute must-see, and exploring its caves offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s geological marvels.

From there, the trip shifts to the northern part of Palawan—El Nido—famous for its dramatic limestone formations and crystal-clear lagoons. You’ll participate in two different island-hopping tours (Tour A and Tour C), both highly recommended by travelers for their variety and scenery. These trips include visits to lagoons, secret beaches, and iconic sites like the Big and Small Lagoons. Expect to paddle through calm waters, marvel at towering cliffs, and enjoy the super-photo-worthy vistas.

The journey continues with a ferry to Coron, which boasts a different set of attractions, including its famous shipwrecks, lakes, and beaches. Coron’s tours are packed with highlights like Kayangan Lake, Green Lagoon, and Twin Lagoon, giving you plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and picture-taking. The trip wraps up with a transfer back to Coron airport, ready for your onward journey.

Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: Puerto Princesa — City Sights and Historic Landmarks

Starting with a hotel pickup, you’ll head to notable points such as the Immaculate Conception Cathedral and Plaza Cuartel. The historical sites offer insight into the city’s past, set against a backdrop of local life. The tour here is relaxed but packed with cultural flavor, perfect for setting the tone.

Day 2: Puerto Princesa — Underground River Adventure

The highlight of this day is exploring the Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The guided tour takes around five hours, with a boat ride through the impressive cavern system. It’s a surreal experience, with stalactites and stalagmites that look like sculptures. Expect the caves to be cool, and prepare for a bit of walking and boat riding.

Day 3: Travel to El Nido and Lagoon Exploration

Traveling from Puerto Princesa to El Nido is about four to five hours by van, offering scenic views along the way. Upon arrival, the Secret Lagoon awaits, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. The tour features a boat ride into a tiny opening in the rocks, revealing a calm lagoon inside—a favorite among travelers.

Day 4: El Nido Island Hopping Tour C

This highly recommended day trip covers some of El Nido’s most beautiful spots. Tour C includes encounters with Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, and Hidden Beach. Locals often say this is the most impressive of the tours, thanks to its pristine waters and unique rock formations. Expect a full day of swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on beaches.

Day 5: Ferry to Coron and Town Tour

Travel by ferry to Coron around midday, arriving in the afternoon for a half-day town tour. You’ll explore local landmarks like Mt. Tapyas, where the stairs lead to a panoramic view of the town. The town tour offers cultural insights, including local dialects and traditions.

Day 6: Coron Island Highlights

This day is all about breathtaking lakes and lagoons. Kayangan Lake is famous for its clear waters and surrounding cliffs, perfect for swimming and photos. The Green Lagoon provides a peaceful setting for snorkeling, and Quin Reef offers vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life.

Day 7: More Coron Island Adventures

Another full day in Coron, focusing on more iconic sites like Twin Lagoon, Smith Beach, and the reef coral. The lagoons are famous for their dramatic limestone formations and calm waters. Travelers report that the boat rides are smooth, and guides are helpful in pointing out marine life.

Day 8: Departure from Coron

Your tour concludes with a transfer to Coron’s airport. This trip is straightforward but essential, as it connects you to your next destination or back home.

What We Love About This Tour

Stunning Natural Beauty – From the underground river to lagoons and shipwrecks, each stop showcases Palawan’s diverse landscapes. The scenery is genuinely breathtaking, often leaving travelers speechless.

Seamless Logistics – The tour is designed to handle all transportation and transfers, meaning you won’t waste time figuring out how to get from one place to another. This is especially valuable given the distances involved.

Authentic Experiences – Guided visits to local landmarks and interaction with knowledgeable guides make the trip more meaningful. Reviewers mention guides sharing stories and insights that you won’t find in a guidebook.

Variety of Activities – Whether you prefer wildlife, beaches, snorkeling, or cultural sites, this itinerary offers a nice mix, making it a well-rounded experience.

What to Consider

The tour is quite busy, with early mornings and full days, so it’s not ideal if you prefer a slow-paced holiday. Plus, while the price covers most activities, travelers should budget extra for optional souvenirs or personal expenses. Weather can impact certain spots, especially outdoor activities, so flexibility is key.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

While $2,300 isn’t cheap, it covers a lot—including transportation, most activities, and guided tours—making it cost-effective for a multi-destination experience. The inclusion of the UNESCO-listed Underground River and popular island-hopping excursions means you’re paying for access to exclusive sights without the hassle of planning each detail yourself.

The Sum Up

This 8-day tour of Palawan makes a fantastic choice for travelers eager to explore the Philippines’ top attractions without the stress of organizing every detail. It’s ideal for those who want a balanced mix of cultural insights, natural wonders, and island adventures. The itinerary’s focus on iconic sights like lagoons, caves, and shipwrecks ensures memorable moments throughout.

While it requires some energy to keep up with the schedule, the stunning views and variety of experiences make it well worth the effort. If you’re looking for an organized, comprehensive trip that offers real value and authentic encounters, this tour ticks many boxes.

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy active days filled with sightseeing, photography, and cultural insights. It’s also suited to those who prefer the convenience of all logistics managed for them, allowing full immersion in Palawan’s natural beauty.

FAQs

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is included, making the start of your trip smooth and hassle-free.

Can I participate if I’m traveling with children?
Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult, and the pace may be busy for very young kids.

What’s the main highlight of Puerto Princesa?
The Puerto Princesa Underground River is the standout, offering a fascinating cave exploration experience that’s recognized as one of the new seven wonders of nature.

Are the island hopping tours suitable for non-swimmers?
While some spots involve swimming or snorkeling, guides tend to assist and provide life jackets, so non-swimmers can still enjoy the scenery.

How long are the travel days?
Travel days between Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron can be several hours, but most transport is organized and includes scenic views along the way.

What should I pack for this trip?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, waterproof camera, comfortable shoes, and light layers. Be prepared for outdoor activities and potential rain.

Is the tour flexible if I want to add extra activities?
This particular tour is structured with fixed itineraries; however, some optional expenses might be available at certain stops.

In short, this Palawan tour offers a well-paced, visually stunning, and culturally enriching experience, making it a memorable choice for anyone eager to explore the best of the Philippines’ natural highlights.