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Puerto Princesa Underground River boat entrance

Puerto Princesa Travel Guide

Underground River, Honda Bay, and the gateway to Palawan.

Written by Nisha Chaudhary — Asia Travel Specialist
Reviewed by Namrata Sethi · Asia Travel Reviewer
Last updated after reviewing:
  • Puerto Princesa Underground River permit system and wait times (2026)
  • Honda Island hopping standard tour pricing
  • City proper to airport distance and Grab availability
Fact-checked April 2026

Last updated: April 2026

Top Things to Do in Puerto Princesa
UNESCO Underground River, island hopping, and city landmarks.

Puerto Princesa Underground River (UNESCO)

One of the New7Wonders of Nature. 8.2km navigable river inside a limestone cave. Tour cost: PHP 1,500–2,000 (includes van transfer, boat, lunch, permit). Booking: essential – through tour agencies in Puerto Princesa or online. Allow 6‑8 hours including transfers.

Honda Bay Island Hopping

Snorkel and relax on islands: Starfish Island (sandbar), Luli Island (sinks at high tide), Cowrie Island (lunch spot). Tour cost: PHP 1,200–1,500 (boat, lunch, snorkel gear). Optional: kayak rental. Allow 6‑8 hours.

City Highlights

  • Immaculate Conception Cathedral – historic church near the baywalk.
  • Plaza Cuartel – WWII memorial site.
  • Baywalk – evening stroll with food stalls.
  • Binuatan Creations (Weaving Center) – buy handwoven products, watch demonstration. Free entry.

Firefly Watching (Iwahig River)

Night paddle boat tour to see fireflies on mangrove trees. Magical experience. Tour cost: PHP 800–1,200 (includes boat, guide). Best during dry season (Nov–May).

Suggested 2‑Day Puerto Princesa Itinerary

Day 1: Underground River

  • 7:00 AM – Pickup from hotel by tour van
  • 2‑hour drive to Sabang wharf
  • Boat to Underground River entrance (15‑20 minutes)
  • 45‑minute guided paddle tour inside the cave
  • Lunch at Sabang (included)
  • Optional: mangrove paddle boat or zipline (extra fee)
  • Return to Puerto Princesa by 4‑5 PM
  • Evening: Baywalk or firefly watching (optional)

Day 2: Honda Bay + City Tour

  • 8:00 AM – Pickup to Honda Bay wharf
  • Island hopping (Starfish, Luli, Cowrie islands)
  • Snorkeling, swimming, relaxing
  • Lunch included on Cowrie Island
  • Return by 3‑4 PM
  • Afternoon city tour: Cathedral, Plaza Cuartel, Binuatan Weaving Center
  • Evening: souvenir shopping at Rizal Avenue or Baker’s Hill

Tip: If you have a third day, add a trip to Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm (minimum security prison with souvenir shops run by inmates) or Nagtabon Beach for a quieter beach experience.

Getting to Puerto Princesa & Getting Around

By Air

Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS) – direct flights from Manila (1.5 hours), Cebu (1.5 hours). Airlines: Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, AirAsia. From airport to city center: tricycle (PHP 150‑200) or Grab (PHP 200‑300).

By Ferry

2GO Travel operates ferries from Manila to Puerto Princesa (24‑30 hours). Not recommended for short trips – flights are cheaper and faster.

Getting Around

  • Tricycles: PHP 50‑150 for short distances within city. Negotiate before riding.
  • Grab: Available but limited compared to Manila.
  • Tour vans: Tours include pick‑up and drop‑off. Book through your hotel or agencies.
Where to Stay in Puerto Princesa

Luxury / Upscale

  • Princesa Garden Island Resort & Spa – PHP 7,000–10,000
  • Canvas Boutique Hotel – PHP 5,000–7,000

Mid‑Range

  • Holiday Suites – PHP 2,500–4,000
  • Astoria Palawan – PHP 4,000–6,000 (slightly farther)
  • Microtel by Wyndham – PHP 3,500–5,000

Budget

  • Rene’s Pension House – PHP 1,000–1,500
  • Deep Forest Garden Inn – PHP 1,500–2,200
  • Hostels: Mad Monkey (social/party) – PHP 600–900 per bed
Frequently Asked Questions – Puerto Princesa
1How to book Underground River tour as an Indian traveler?
Book through tour agencies in Puerto Princesa city (along Rizal Avenue) or via your hotel. Prices are fixed around PHP 1,500–2,000. Do not attempt to DIY – permits are handled by agencies.
2Is Puerto Princesa worth visiting if I’m going to El Nido?
Yes, if you have time. Puerto Princesa offers a different experience: Underground River (UNESCO) and Honda Bay. Many travelers fly into PPS, do 2 days there, then take a van to El Nido (5‑6 hours).
3What is the best time to visit Puerto Princesa?
Dry season (November–May). Underground River operates year‑round but cave water levels rise in rainy season (June–October), and tours may be cancelled for safety.
4What food is Puerto Princesa famous for?
Kinilaw (Filipino ceviche), tamilok (woodworm – adventurous eaters), fresh seafood. Also: hopia (from Baker’s Hill), cashew nuts (Palawan’s specialty), and kropek (shrimp crackers).
5Can I use Indian debit cards in Puerto Princesa?
Yes, ATMs (BPI, BDO) accept international cards. However, many smaller restaurants and tricycles are cash‑only. Withdraw enough PHP for tours and daily expenses.
6Is there Grab in Puerto Princesa?
Yes, but limited. Tricycles and hotel‑arranged vans are more common. For airport to hotel, Grab works; for tours, book through agency.

Plan your Palawan adventure: Read the Complete Philippines Travel Guide for visa, costs, and El Nido itineraries.

Also check: 7-Day Itinerary | Trip Cost | Best Time to Visit

Get a Palawan Package (Puerto Princesa + El Nido) →

Disclaimer: Underground River permit availability changes seasonally. Always confirm with your tour agency. Honda Bay island hopping may be cancelled during rough seas (usually June–October). Travel insurance recommended.

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