7-Day Palawan Adventure: Puerto Princesa, El Nido & Coron Island Hopping
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7 days
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: be comfortable with multi-hour boat rides, short hikes or stair climbs to viewpoints, and standing/wading while exploring beaches and lagoons.
Overview
A fast-paced seven-day circuit through Palawan that pairs Puerto Princesa’s Underground River with El Nido’s lagoons and Coron’s lagoons and wreck reefs. Expect long transfers, early starts and spectacular limestone scenery.
7-Day Palawan Adventure: Puerto Princesa, El Nido & Coron Island Hopping
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The ferry horn is low and deliberate as dawn loosens the dark over Honda Bay. You step off a minivan in Puerto Princesa to the humid, vegetal air of Palawan and within hours the island begins to rearrange itself: limestone ribs rising from turquoise, mangrove mouths that dare you to look deeper, and limestone karsts that throw shade like old sentries.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Book key transfers early
Reserve the Underground River permit, El Nido island tours and the El Nido–Coron ferry before peak season to avoid sold-out days.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Palawan’s reefs are fragile; choose reef-safe sunscreen and apply before getting in the water to protect corals.
Pack water shoes
Boat ramps, coral beaches and wet limestone can be slippery—water shoes give traction and protect against sea urchins.
Carry small bills and a power bank
ATMs are limited outside Puerto Princesa and El Nido; carry cash for boat tips, market purchases and port fees, and bring a power bank for long days.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Philippine crocodile (viewed at Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center)
- Tropical reef fish and sea turtles around El Nido and Coron reefs
History
Palawan has a layered history of indigenous Cuyonon culture, Spanish colonial ports and WWII conflict; Plaza Cuartel in Puerto Princesa remembers wartime events.
Conservation
Many areas in Bacuit and Coron are protected marine reserves; support local operators who follow no-touch reef policies and use designated mooring buoys.
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Adventure Hotspots in Puerto Princesa
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Snorkel mask (optional)
A personal mask fits better than rental gear and improves comfort for repeated snorkel stops.
summer specific
Water shoes
Protect feet on coral, wet rocks and boat ramps and provide better traction when climbing islands.
Reusable water bottle with filter
Keeps you hydrated on long days and reduces plastic waste; filtered bottles are handy where potable water is limited.
spring specific
Light rain jacket
Quick showers can appear in warmer months; a packable shell keeps you dry without bulk.
summer specific