CityBuddy
English
Things to Do in Puerto Princesa, Philippines
Photo made by Vincent Lebis on Pexels.com
When to visit
Plan your perfect trip to Puerto Princesa, Philippines
Get a complete travel plan built just for you in under 30 seconds, with daily routes, local food tips, budget estimates and more.
Are any of these especially important to you?
Select all that apply
Plan language: EnglishMost popular attractions in Puerto Princesa, Philippines
Things to do in Puerto Princesa, Philippines, include exploring the world's longest underground river at Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, snorkeling in Honda Bay, and visiting the intriguing animal rehabilitation center at Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center. Don't forget to also visit Baker's Hill for treats and Plaza Cuartel for its historical significance.
1. Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park
Adventure underwater in caves and a unique natural wonder await. Experience a boat ride along the world's longest underground river and see natural marvels up close.
Quick facts: Under the dark caves flows an 8.2 km long underground river. This river is one of the longest underground sea rivers in the world, leading straight to the sea.
Highlights: You can take a boat through the cave cluster where the cave walls are full of amazing stalactites and stalagmites. The river is part of a large limestone network that forms a unique ecosystem with rare plants and animals.
2. Honda Bay
Discover islands covered with corals and a sea free of trash. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride and colorful underwater life.
Quick facts: Tourists can see diverse coral reefs and more than 10 different islands in the clear waters of Honda Bay, which can be explored on a boat trip. The average sea temperature remains around 27 degrees year-round, providing pleasant conditions for swimming and snorkeling.
Highlights: Many islands in the bay are home to green mangrove forests and rare seabirds, offering a peaceful natural environment. One of the islands, Starfish Island, has a population of starfish named after it, which can be closely encountered and photographed.
3. Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center
Experience near crocodiles and exotic birds while exploring conservation. Learn how local endangered species are protected and thrive.
Quick facts: Home to over 100 crocodiles, including giant saltwater crocodiles that can grow up to 5 meters long. The site also breeds many local species such as the Palawan Tuke, a bird species found nowhere else in the world.
Highlights: Especially fascinating is watching the feeding of the saltwater crocodiles, which takes place from a special platform underneath. It is a true adventure for both children and adults. The center also offers close-up views and education on the protection of endangered species, which is a practical and important step in preserving biological diversity.
4. Baker's Hill
A great place for both taste buds and the eyes. Enjoy plenty of colorful gardens and local treats.
Quick facts: There are over 15 small garden centers and craft stalls offering local treats and snacks. This place is famous for its own chocolate and coconut sweets that appeal to both children and adults.
Highlights: Joyful gardens designed as a play center provide endless happiness for little visitors with challenges and natural surroundings. One exotic delight is a corner dedicated to the fascinating world of turtles, where you can observe them up close.
5. Plaza Cuartel
Dive straight into history and feel the heroic war-hidden heritage. Explore the layered past above an underground prison cell.
Quick facts: About 150 US prisoners of war stayed here during World War II, and their life here was actually very harsh. The plaque features remains of an underground prison cell that can be viewed and tells powerful historical stories.
Highlights: The above-ground and underground prison cells are impressive. Inside the ground, you can see small caves where soldiers were locked up. What makes the place special is the collection of plywood posters that tell the soldiers' stories through photos and writings.
6. Immaculate Conception Cathedral
Unique Gothic architecture and vibrant stained glass invite discovery. A lively Saturday evening service brings the soul of local culture.
Quick facts: The iconic church building is known for its unique Gothic architecture, attracting both locals and tourists every year. It is actively used by the local community for important religious and communal events.
Highlights: The church houses an interesting collection of stained glass windows, each pane telling the legend of a different saint, illuminating the space beautifully with sunlight. Every Saturday evening service involves visitors with traditional local songs and rituals that are not easily found elsewhere.
7. Mitra's Ranch
Experience rural life and nature's calm all in one visit. Join farming activities and spot colorful native birds on peaceful trails.
Quick facts: The ranch covers more than 20 hectares of lush tropical forest and agricultural land. Local community members manage the ranch, blending eco-tourism with sustainable farming.
Highlights: Visitors can take part in traditional farming activities such as planting and harvesting rice. The ranch is home to over 30 species of native birds, making it a small sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts.
8. Palawan Butterfly Ecological Garden and Tribal Village
Butterflies fly just a few steps away, while you also see real tribal life. Learn and admire living butterflies and tribe traditions.
Quick facts: Here you can see over 20 different species of butterflies flying freely in the exotic jungle. Guests can also explore the local tribal life, where traditional tools and crafts are displayed.
Highlights: The butterfly nursery is built so that visitors can observe and photograph them up close without disturbing them. The tribal village section highlights the authentic lifestyle of the Palawan tribe, where you can try traditional experiences like bamboo games and wooden leaf tools.
9. Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm
A unique chance to see prison life in an agricultural community. Meet inmates and their families who live and work together on a large area.
Quick facts: Most prisoners here engage in agriculture over 16,000 hectares of land, making this prison one of the largest of its kind. Family life is allowed in the prisons, so many inmates live with their families within the same community.
Highlights: Walking down the street, you can see prisoners working and their families moving around as in a typical village environment. The opportunity to meet and talk with inmates and their families offers a rare insight into everyday prison life.
Where to Stay in Puerto Princesa, Philippines
Selected by City Buddy based on guest reviews and proximity to top attractions
Search all hotels in Puerto Princesa, PhilippinesPowered by agoda
Traditional Sweet Dishes
Budbud Palawan
Budbud Palawan is a native sticky rice cake wrapped in banana leaves, known for its soft texture and distinct coconut flavor, representing Palawan's traditional rice delicacies.
Tartang Gubat
Tartang Gubat is a sweet made from wild bamboo shoots coated in caramelized sugar, highlighting the resourcefulness in using local forest ingredients.
Coconut Buko Pie
Coconut Buko Pie from Puerto Princesa features fresh young coconut meat baked in a creamy custard filling, a tropical twist on the classic Filipino pie.
Traditional Savory Dishes
Tamilok
Tamilok is a local delicacy made from woodworms found in mangroves, often eaten raw or with vinegar as a savory and adventurous dish.
Kinilaw na Isda
Kinilaw na Isda is a traditional Filipino ceviche made with fresh fish marinated in vinegar, calamansi, and spices, celebrating the abundance of local seafood.
Laing
Laing is a spicy dish made from dried taro leaves cooked in coconut milk with chili and shrimp paste, a staple in Palawan's savory cuisine.
Traditional Beverages
Tuba
Tuba is a traditional fermented coconut sap drink often enjoyed fresh or fermented into a palm wine, a staple beverage in many Filipino communities.
Buko Juice
Buko Juice, the refreshing natural coconut water served straight from young coconuts, is a popular drink to cool down in Puerto Princesa's tropical climate.
Salabat
Salabat is a traditional ginger tea known for its soothing properties and is often consumed to warm up or aid digestion.
Frequently Asked Questions about Puerto Princesa, Philippines
Is Puerto Princesa, Philippines safe?
How many days should one spend in Puerto Princesa?
When is the best time to visit Puerto Princesa?
Is Puerto Princesa an expensive destination?
How to get around Puerto Princesa?
Get a PDF with the most popular attractions sent to your email
Get a PDF with all attractions, ratings, and tips. Perfect for offline use.
Most popular day trips
Getting there
Airports
Use taxi or tricycle from the airport to city center; travel time is around 15 minutes.
Find flights to Puerto Princesa, Philippines
Click to get eSim for Puerto Princesa, Philippines
The easiest and most affordable way to get mobile internet wherever you travel.
Comments (7)
Weather was hot and humid but manageable, food is fresh with lots of seafood options, three days felt just right for the main sights.
Skip the airport taxis, take a multicab from outside for a fraction of the cost, and try the batchoy noodle soup in local eateries away from the tourist strip.
The underground river tour is worth the trip, but get there early to avoid big crowds and long waits.
Felt super touristy near the popular spots, but if you stray a bit, you find chill local vibes and affordable eats.
Markets have tons of souvenirs and snacks, but prices can be inflated, so haggle politely or buy at less touristy stalls.