Palawan has been repeatedly voted the most beautiful island in the world – some even call it the best. And we can see why! Limestone cliffs rise from the clear aquamarine waters in the north around El Nido and Coron. White sand beaches line the coasts and inland you’ll find lush palm forest, waterfalls, and caves. The water teems with tropical fish making snorkeling and diving a true delight. For those keen to see a bit of underwater history, the WWII shipwrecks of Coron make for unforgettable dives. The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, sits near the city of Puerto Princesa where whale sharks can sometimes be seen between April and October.
The last ecological frontier of the Philippines, much of Palawan is untouched. Its islands are home to rare purple crabs, unique pangolin, mouse-deer, bearcats, more than 500 species of butterflies, and over 800 species of fish. It’s a wonderland of fauna and flora. There are natural hot springs in Coron, countless uninhabited islands ideal for a day of beach lounging and snorkeling, ziplining, jungle and mountain paths begging to be hiked, and nearly all the water sports you can imagine. Choosing where to start your holiday in Palawan isn’t always easy but we’re here to help.
Palawan is somewhat remote so unless a hotel has satellite internet (which is more true with each year), internet connections are slow or non-existent. It’s a great place to relax, bask in the beauty of the Philippines, and get in touch with nature.
