PUERTO PRINCESA is a slice of heaven which is not limited to the delectable dish served in a platter but extends farther beyond imagination. Choosing what to do and where to go first can become really mind-boggling especially when you’re on a limited time. “So many places. So little time.” fits perfectly to this kind of situation which is pretty much the same wherever you go in Palawan or anywhere in the entire Philippines.
1. See the Puerto Princesa Underground River
Considered as one of the 7 Wonders Of Nature, the Underground River is one of the reasons Puerto Princesa city is flooded with tourists from all walks of life of different ages coming from anywhere in the world every year. And why wouldn’t they? It is one best example of nature’s mystique. A journey to the underground river will tell you of a story that was molded for hundreds of years. Although the stalactite and stalagmite formations within the cave aren’t glowing like crystals, each of them has a fascinating story to tell. Added to that is the guide’s quirky manner of presenting his figment of imagination which most of the time will make you burst with laughter.
2. Island Hopping
Within Honda Bay scattered various small islands and each is gifted with some rare species of fish and other marine animals. Head to Starfish Island and see starfishes of different colors and sizes. Snorkel and get a chance to discover paradise underwater. Afterwards, take time to see Luli Island. Named after the Filipino slang “Lulubog Lilitaw”, this some 2-kilometer sandbar disappears during hightide and reappears during lowtide. Lastly, relax next to a glass of mojito or mango shake in Cowrey Island. Meet and get to know some tourists and ask them to play beach volleyball with you. Have a great time and head back to the city before dusk.
3. Go to Dos Palmas Island
Still within the expanse of Honda Bay, fronting the Sulu Sea is a 20-hectare private island Dos Palmas. Surrounded with white sandy beaches and turquiose waters, this can be your perfect alternative over the very touristy Honda Bay Island Hopping tour. Hop on one of the native outrigger boats en route to the island and discover the intoxicating combination of nature and luxury in a one ultimate tropical paradise experience.
4. Firefly Watching
Another very interesting experience while in Puerto Princesa is to watch thousands of fireflies lit mangroves under a starlit sky in Iwahig. Enjoy an hour filled with insighful learnings courtesy of your boatman who will take your journey from one constellation after the other, from mangroves to plankton and to every interesting detail there is to fireflies. Price: P1000/person
5. City Tour & Food Search
Wrapping Puerto Princesa city are amusement and wildlife parks, cathedrals, and great restaurants. Best known to be the Philippines city which has the richest wildlife habitat, Puerto Princesa did themselves well with preserving various endangered wildlife species. There they have the Butterfly Garden which is a sanctuary to different kinds of butterflies and other animals. Not far from the Butterfly Garden is the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center (formerly known as the Crocodile Farm and Nature Park) which houses the Philippine freshwater crocodile with Mac-mac the biggest croc in the city as the main star. While in PWRCC, you may also want to give the infamous crocodile sisig a try. Couple of miles away is Baker’s Hill where you can get tasty pastries at such inexpensive prices and Mitra’s Ranch which offers a scenic view of the surrounding valley. Head back to town and drop by the Immaculate Conception Cathedral and Plaza Cuartel to know a little history about the city. Stroll along Puerto Princesa Baywalk at sunset then enjoy the city’s lively night life after 6PM.