Puerto Princesa Travel Guide: Underground Rivers, Ziplining & City Highlights
Puerto Princesa is the gateway to Palawan and home to one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature – the Underground River! While many travellers pass through quickly, this city has beautiful landscapes, adventure activities, and great food. Here’s my guide to what to do, where to eat, and what I’d do differently next time!
✈️ Quick Summary
• Best Place to Stay: 🏡 Bay Vista Airbnb – Close to the airport & city
• Must-Try Food: 🍽️ Fresh seafood from a local restaurant
• Top Activity: 🌊 Underground River Tour – an unforgettable experience!
• Would I Go Back? ✅ Yes, but I’d stay an extra night to explore more!
🏨 Where I Stayed in Puerto Princesa
Bay Vista Airbnb
• Location: 20 mins from the airport
• Pros: Great host, airport pick-up service available, peaceful location
• Cons: No fully operational restaurant
💡 Tip: If you prefer more dining options, stay closer to the city centre.
🍽️ Where I Ate
1. Airbnb Home-Cooked Meals
• Best For: Family-style Filipino dishes
• Must-Try: Grilled seafood with garlic rice
💡 Food Tip: Many Airbnbs in Palawan offer home-cooked meals—a great way to try authentic Filipino food!
🌊 Things to Do in Puerto Princesa
1. Underground River Tour (Subterranean River National Park)
• Cost: ~PHP 150 for environmental fee
• Time Needed: 8-hour tour (includes transport & lunch)
• My Experience: One of the most unique natural wonders I’ve ever seen! The cave formations and glowing water make it completely surreal.
• Tip: Book a guided tour in advance – it includes transport, permits & lunch!
2. Sabang X Zipline
• Cost: Included in the Underground River Tour
• Time Needed: 45 minutes
• My Experience: Amazing ocean views! The zipline stretches over the beach for a thrilling ride.
• Tip: Wear secure shoes—you’ll need to hike a little to reach the platform.
💡 Would I Recommend? Yes! Puerto Princesa has more to offer than just a stopover!
💡 Tips & Recommendations – What I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Puerto Princesa
Pack light for the Underground River tour – You’ll be in a boat, so keep your valuables waterproof.
Arrange transport in advance – Public transport isn’t always reliable.
Stay an extra night – Many people rush through, but there’s more to explore.
🔄 What I Would Do Differently Next Time
I’d avoid booking flights too close together – Delays are common in the Philippines.
I’d stay an extra night – To explore more of the area.
I’d visit Nagtabon Beach – A hidden gem for a quieter beach experience.
I’d try KaLui Restaurant – A famous spot for fresh seafood.
🌟 Final Thoughts – Is Puerto Princesa Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Most people visit the Underground River, but Puerto Princesa has great nature, local food, and adventure activities. If you have extra time, I recommend staying at least 2 nights to explore more.
💬 Have you been to Puerto Princesa? Let me know your favourite spots in the comments!
Next Post: Port Barton – Hidden Beaches, Island Hopping & Laid-Back Vibes!
