4-Day Puerto Princesa Getaway: Underground River, Honda Bay & Firefly Night Cruise
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 days
Fitness Level
Moderate: able to manage short hikes, boat transfers, and periods of standing; basic swimming recommended for snorkeling.
Overview
Swap the logistics for a rehearsed route through Puerto Princesa: a 4-day package that pairs the underground river and mangrove fireflies with a day of snorkelable islands in Honda Bay. Ideal for travelers who want curated access to Palawan’s highlights without the planning headache.
4-Day Puerto Princesa Getaway: Underground River, Honda Bay & Firefly Night Cruise
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You step out of the airport into a hot, humid pulse—jeepneys trundle by, and the scent of grilled fish rides the air. Your guide is waiting with a name card; within minutes you are in an air-conditioned van cutting across fringes of the city toward low hills where crops and coconut palms lean into the breeze. This is Puerto Princesa: a working tropical city that opens into some of the Philippines’ most direct encounters with wild water and limestone.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Time your flights
Arrive in Puerto Princesa before noon and book an afternoon departure—ground transfers and hotel check-out make same-day connections tight.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Sunscreen that’s labeled reef-safe protects coral during Honda Bay snorkeling and is often required at marine sites.
Pack a light waterproof bag
Keep phones and cameras dry during boat transfers and sudden spray; a small dry bag keeps essentials accessible.
Carry small cash
Some local sellers at wharves and roadside stops accept only cash; bring smaller bills for snacks and tips.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Palawan hornbill
- Philippine crocodile (seen mainly at the rescue center)
History
The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River is a UNESCO World Heritage site and was named one of the New7Wonders of Nature; the area is also traditional land of the Tagbanua people.
Conservation
Visitor numbers and strict no-plastic rules at the Underground River protect sensitive cave formations and marine habitats; use reef-safe products and minimize single-use plastics.
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Adventure Hotspots in Puerto Princesa
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects your skin while minimizing damage to coral ecosystems during snorkeling.
summer specific
Waterproof dry bag
Keeps electronics and documents dry during boat transfers and on wet beaches.
Snorkel set (optional)
Provided gear is often included, but a personal mask offers a better fit and clearer views.
summer specific
Insect repellent
Mosquitoes are common at dusk and during mangrove firefly cruises—bring DEET or picaridin-based repellent.