5 Days Palawan, Philippines Itinerary
This 5-day Palawan itinerary focuses on experiencing the best of Puerto Princesa and El Nido on a budget. It includes island hopping, exploring hidden beaches, and immersing yourself in the local culture, all while keeping costs down.
Duration
5 days
Budget
$350-500
Best Time
The best time to visit Palawan is during the dry season, from November to May
Activities
21
Daily Avg
$85/day
Cities
Palawan (2d), El Nido (3d)
Pace
Moderate
Palawan is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, pristine beaches, and diverse marine life. It offers a mix of adventure activities, relaxation, and cultural experiences, making it a perfect destination for budget travelers seeking paradise.
Your itinerary covers 5 of 10 must-have experiences
Island Hopping & Pristine Beaches
Day 4: El Nido Island Hopping Tour A
Underwater Shipwrecks & Reefs
e.g., Coron WWII Wrecks Diving (Akitsushima, Irako, Kogyo Maru), El Nido Diving (Miniloc Island, Bacuit Bay dive sites)
Unique Geological Wonders
e.g., Puerto Princesa Underground River National Park, Kayangan Lake (Coron)
Palawan Culinary Delights
e.g., Kalui Restaurant (Puerto Princesa), El Nido Seafood Restaurants (e.g., Republica Sunset Bar for food)
Sunset Views & Scenic Lookouts
Day 3: Las Cabanas Beach
Cultural & Heritage Insights
Day 1: Immaculate Conception Cathedral
Adventure & Outdoor Thrills
e.g., Ziplining at Sabang Beach (Puerto Princesa), Kayaking through the Big Lagoon (El Nido)
Island Nightlife & Relaxed Bars
Day 4: El Nido Island Hopping Tour A
Wildlife Encounters
e.g., Calauit Safari Park (Busuanga Island), Ugong Rock Adventures & Ecopark (Puerto Princesa)
Hidden Coves & Secluded Beaches
Day 5: Nacpan Beach (Optional)
Palawan's cuisine is a delightful mix of fresh seafood, local produce, and Filipino flavors. Influenced by its coastal location and diverse cultural heritage, Palawan offers a unique culinary experience. Be sure to try the freshly caught seafood prepared in a variety of ways!
Must-Try Dishes
A Palawan delicacy consisting of woodworms found in mangrove trees. They are usually eaten raw with vinegar and calamansi, offering a unique, slightly salty, and briny taste. It's an adventurous eat for the daring foodie!
📍 Kinabuchs Grill and Bar (Puerto Princesa), local restaurants in Puerto Princesa and El Nido
The Filipino version of ceviche, made with fresh raw fish marinated in vinegar, calamansi, onions, ginger, and chili. It's a refreshing and zesty appetizer, perfect for the tropical climate.
📍 Any seafood restaurant, particularly along the coast
A type of seaweed that resembles tiny green grapes. It's usually served as a salad with a simple dressing of vinegar, onions, and tomatoes. It has a slightly salty and crunchy texture.
📍 Local markets, restaurants serving Filipino cuisine
Grilled chicken marinated in achiote oil, ginger, and other spices, giving it a vibrant orange color and a flavorful taste. Often served with rice and atchara (pickled papaya).
📍 Ka Lui Restaurant (Puerto Princesa), local restaurants specializing in grilled dishes
Food Neighborhoods
Diverse range of restaurants, from fine dining to local eateries.
Seafood restaurants and beachfront dining with stunning views.
Local carinderias (small eateries) offering affordable and authentic Filipino food.
Emerging food scene with focus on sustainable and farm-to-table dining.
Vegetarian options are becoming more common, but may be limited outside of tourist areas. Look for vegetable dishes like 'Chopsuey' or ask for vegetable versions of Filipino dishes. Vegan options are less readily available, so it's best to inquire specifically about ingredients. Halal food is not widely available, so it's advisable to check with restaurants beforehand. Be cautious of seafood allergies and always inform the restaurant about any dietary restrictions.
Filipinos generally eat with a fork and spoon. The fork is used to push food onto the spoon, which is then used to bring the food to the mouth. Using your hands is acceptable for certain dishes, but always wash your hands before eating. It's polite to offer food to others at the table. Leaving a small amount of food on your plate is considered polite, indicating that you were satisfied.
Sinulog Festival
SinulogMassive religious festival honoring the Santo Nino with colorful street dancing.
Note: Book 1-2 months ahead
🛣️Interesting Detours & Side Trips
- 🚶Take a taxi or tricycle from Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS) to your hotel in the city center.$5 (Tricycle fare)
10:00 AM - Arrival at Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS)
Arrive at PPS, take a tricycle to your hostel/guesthouse in the city center. Check in and freshen up.
🏨Create Custom ItineraryAdd your hotel booking
Search and add hotels to see on maps
Create a free custom itinerary to add hotels and restaurants
- 🚶Take a tricycle from your hotel to Kinabuch Grill and Bar.$10
1:00 PM - Lunch at Kinabuch Grill and Bar
Enjoy a delicious and affordable Filipino lunch at Kinabuch. Try their grilled seafood or sisig.
🍽️Create Custom ItineraryAdd restaurants for Lunch
Get personalized restaurant recommendations
Create a free custom itinerary to add hotels and restaurants
- 🚶Walk from Kinabuch Grill and Bar to Immaculate Conception Cathedral (short distance).FREE
2:30 PM - Immaculate Conception Cathedral
Visit the beautiful blue Immaculate Conception Cathedral, a significant landmark in Puerto Princesa. Take some photos and admire the architecture.
Book on Klook - 🚶Walk from Immaculate Conception Cathedral to Plaza Cuartel (short distance).FREE
4:00 PM - Plaza Cuartel
Explore Plaza Cuartel, a historical site that served as a garrison during World War II. Learn about its tragic past.
Book on Klook - 🚶Take a tricycle from Plaza Cuartel to Badjao Seafront Restaurant.$15
6:00 PM - Dinner at Badjao Seafront Restaurant
Enjoy fresh seafood with a beautiful view of the bay at Badjao Seafront Restaurant. It's slightly more expensive, but worth it for the ambiance.
🍽️Create Custom ItineraryAdd restaurants for Dinner
Get personalized restaurant recommendations
Create a free custom itinerary to add hotels and restaurants
Puerto Princesa City Center
Convenient access to restaurants, shops, and attractions. Good base for exploring the city.
📅 Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Palawan is during the dry season, from November to May. During these months, the weather is sunny with calm seas, making it ideal for island hopping, diving, and beach activities. The peak season falls between December and April, which means larger crowds and higher prices. The wet season, from June to October, brings occasional rain showers and rougher seas, but also fewer tourists and lush green landscapes, though typhoons can sometimes occur, particularly from July to September.
Palawan enjoys a tropical climate. During the peak season, expect plenty of sunshine, clear skies, and warm temperatures. Humidity is generally high.
Dry season, ideal for island hopping and diving due to calm seas and sunny weather.
Holy Week (Semana Santa) in March/April can significantly increase prices and crowds.
Getting Around
Jeepneys and tricycles are iconic; ride-hailing in cities
Use Grab in Metro Manila. For island hopping, book ferry tickets in advance.
Travel
$100-150 (Flights and transportation within Palawan)Accommodation
$50-75 (Hostels and budget guesthouses)Food
$100-125 (Local eateries and street food)Activities
$100-150 (Island hopping tours and entrance fees)Eat at local 'carinderias' or 'sari-sari' stores for authentic and affordable Filipino meals. They offer significantly cheaper prices than tourist restaurants.
Opt for local transportation like tricycles for short distances. Negotiate the fare beforehand, and don't be afraid to share rides to save money.
Invest in a private island hopping tour for a more personalized experience, allowing you to avoid crowds and customize your itinerary. This is especially worth it for a special occasion.
Consider a stay at one of Palawan's luxury resorts or private island accommodations for an unparalleled level of service, privacy, and breathtaking views.
Always ask for the 'local price' if you feel you're being overcharged, especially in markets. Sometimes a friendly negotiation can lead to a better deal.
Look for 'unlimited rice' offers at local eateries – it's a common practice and helps stretch your budget, especially if you have a big appetite after a day of activities.
- Always carry sufficient cash, especially smaller denominations, as many establishments, particularly on islands and smaller towns, do not accept card payments.
- Bargaining is common in local markets and for tricycle fares, but less so in established shops or restaurants with fixed prices. Always agree on a price before getting into a tricycle.
- Respect local customs and traditions; a simple 'Po' or 'Opo' added to sentences shows politeness and respect to elders or service staff.
- Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. Drink plenty of water, wear reef-safe sunscreen (to protect marine life), hats, and sunglasses, especially during island hopping.
- Bring a waterproof dry bag for your valuables (phone, camera, wallet) during boat tours to protect them from splashes and unexpected rain.
- Be mindful of environmental impact; dispose of trash properly, avoid touching corals, and support eco-friendly tourism operators.
- Expect occasional power outages, especially in smaller towns. Many accommodations have generators, but it's wise to carry a power bank for your devices.
- Learn a few basic Tagalog or local Palawanon phrases like 'Salamat' (Thank you) and 'Magkano ito?' (How much is this?) to enhance your interactions.
- 1Multiple swimsuits and quick-dry clothing for daily island hopping and water activities.
- 2Reef-safe sunscreen with high SPF to protect both your skin and the delicate coral reefs.
- 3Insect repellent with DEET, especially for evenings and trips into lush areas.
- 4Water shoes or sturdy sandals (e.g., Tevas, Chacos) for walking on rocky beaches, sharp corals, and slippery boat decks.
- 5A waterproof dry bag (10-20L) to keep essentials safe and dry during boat trips and rain.
- 6Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for sun protection.
- 7Lightweight rain jacket or poncho, even during the dry season, for unexpected showers.
- 8Reusable water bottle to minimize plastic waste; many hotels offer refill stations.
- 9Basic first-aid kit including pain relievers, band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and anti-diarrhea medication.
- 10Power bank and adapter for charging devices, as outlets can be limited or power outages occur.
International and Domestic Flights
Book international flights to Manila (MNL) or Clark (CRK), then domestic flights to Puerto Princesa (PPS) or El Nido (ENI) 3-6 months in advance, especially during peak season.
Accommodation
Book hotels/resorts, especially in popular areas like El Nido and Coron, 2-4 months ahead. Budget accommodations can fill up quickly.
Island Hopping Tours
Reserve popular tours (e.g., El Nido Tour A, B, C, D; Coron Ultimate Tour) at least a few days to a week in advance, especially during high season, as spots can be limited.
Ferry/Van Transfers (e.g., PPS to El Nido)
Pre-book inter-island ferries or van transfers online or through your accommodation a few days ahead to secure your spot and ensure smooth travel.
Environmental Fee / Eco-Tourism Development Fee
Be aware of and budget for mandatory fees (e.g., El Nido's P200 ETDF, valid for 10 days). Sometimes these are collected upon booking a tour or upon arrival.
Travel Insurance
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance before your trip to cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and especially water-related activities.
Note: Travel conditions, regulations, and local customs may change. We recommend verifying essential details — such as visa requirements, emergency contacts, and payment options — closer to your travel date.
SIM & Connectivity
SIM Options
📍 Globe stores at Puerto Princesa Airport, major malls, and convenience stores
📍 Smart stores at Puerto Princesa Airport, major malls, and convenience stores
📍 Online via Airalo website/app
📍 Online via Klook website/app. Pick up at Puerto Princesa Airport or delivered to your hotel
WiFi is generally available in hotels, resorts, and some cafes, especially in tourist areas like Puerto Princesa and El Nido. However, the speed and reliability can vary. Expect slower speeds in more remote areas. Many guesthouses may not offer WiFi.
Useful Apps
Purchase your SIM card upon arrival at Puerto Princesa Airport for convenience. Consider downloading offline maps on Google Maps before your trip, as mobile data can be unreliable in some areas. Check the data coverage maps of different providers to choose the best option for your itinerary. Pocket WiFi is a good option for groups or those who need reliable internet access throughout their trip.
Electric Socket Guide
Socket Types
Two flat parallel pins
Two flat parallel pins + round ground
Two round pins (Europlug)
220V
60Hz
Tipping Etiquette
10% if no service charge
Round up to the nearest 10–20 pesos
₱20–50 per bag for porters
Tipping is appreciated but not required. Round up at restaurants.
Safety & Travel Advisories
Palawan is generally safe for tourists, but petty theft can occur. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against scams.
Check official government advisories for the latest safety information, entry requirements, and travel warnings before your trip.
Emergency Numbers
117
911
911
Call 911 for all emergencies
Payments
Cash dominant, especially outside Manila
Accepted at malls and hotels; less common elsewhere
GCash and Maya QR payments growing
Bring cash in smaller denominations. GCash is widely used for payments.
Customize This Trip
Get this itinerary tailored to YOUR exact dates, preferences, and budget.
- Personalized for your dates
- Weather-aware recommendations
- Offline access
- Real-time pricing
- Budget tracking
No sign-up required
Quick Actions
Trip Summary
How was this itinerary?
The best time to visit Palawan is during the dry season, from November to May. You'll experience sunny weather and calm seas, perfect for island hopping and other water activities. However, expect larger crowds and higher prices during the peak months of December to April.
Related Itineraries
Customize This Trip
Get this itinerary tailored to YOUR exact dates, preferences, and budget.
- Personalized for your dates
- Weather-aware recommendations
- Offline access
- Real-time pricing
- Budget tracking
No sign-up required
Quick Actions
Trip Summary
Want a Personalized Version?
Get this itinerary customized for your exact travel dates, with weather-aware recommendations and real-time pricing.
Create My Custom Itinerary60sBrowse by travel style: