2 Weeks Best of Palawan: El Nido, Coron & Puerto Princesa Beaches

Explore the Best of Palawan in Two Weeks: Coron, El Nido & Puerto Princesa
Costing $2,144 per person for a 14-day adventure, this tour package offers a comprehensive look at Palawan’s most iconic spots. From Manila, you’ll fly to Coron, explore crystal-clear lakes and shipwrecks, then hop over to El Nido for jaw-dropping limestone cliffs and secret beaches, finishing with a tour of the famous Underground River in Puerto Princesa.

What we love most? First, the all-inclusive nature makes the trip stress-free—flights, transfers, accommodations, and many tours are covered, freeing you to focus on enjoying the scenery. Second, the well-organized island-hopping tours reveal the very best beaches and lagoons, with knowledgeable guides to lead the way.

A potential consideration? The 14-day booking lead time requirement could be a hurdle if you’re last-minute planner. Also, while the package is packed with activities, some travelers might prefer more flexibility or to add optional excursions.

This tour suits travelers eager to see Palawan’s top sights without the hassle of planning each detail while enjoying a good balance of adventure and relaxation. It’s especially ideal for those who want a structured, all-in-one experience with reliable transport and accommodations.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Flights, accommodations, transfers, and many tours are included, simplifying your planning.
• Authentic Experiences: Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites and enjoy top-rated island hopping tours.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides make all the difference, sharing insights and ensuring smooth navigation.
• Good Value for Money: Despite the price, the package offers a lot—many activities, premium accommodations, and seamless logistics.
• Balanced Itinerary: Combines adventure, culture, and leisure across diverse locations in Palawan.
• Limited Group Size: A maximum of five travelers ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

Starting in Manila and Traveling to Palawan’s Top Destinations

The journey begins in Manila, where you’re greeted with a friendly driver at the airport, easing you into your adventure with a comfortable transfer to your hotel. While Manila isn’t the star of this trip, it’s the gateway to paradise, and the included two nights give you a chance to settle in, or perhaps explore a little if time permits. The real magic starts when you fly to Coron, a highlight for many travelers.

Coron: Limestone Cliffs, Lakes, and Shipwrecks

Your first real taste of Palawan’s renowned natural beauty comes with a flight to Coron. The town itself is charming and modest, but it’s the surrounding waters that steal the show. The Kayangan Lake, celebrated for its clarity, is a favorite—perfect for snorkeling and taking stunning photos. The Twin Lagoons offer a surreal experience, with limestone walls creating a peaceful haven for swimming and kayaking.

One of the most praised aspects, according to reviews, is the expert guides who walk you through these sites, sharing stories and tips that turn sightseeing into engaging learning. The Coron Island Hopping Tour is said to be “the best,” covering top spots with a good balance of time at each location.

The shipwreck dives are legendary, but even if you’re not into diving, the snorkeling around the wrecks offers eerie, captivating views of sunken ships overgrown with marine life. The value here is clear—many feel the tour offers a full day of unforgettable sights at a reasonable price point.

Lesser-Known Gems: Malcapuya and Banana Islands

On Day 5, you visit Malcapuya Island and Banana Island, often highlighted as some of the most beautiful islands in Palawan. The powdery white sands and transparent waters are picture-perfect. Travelers comment on the “serene beaches” and “vibrant shades of blue,” perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just relaxing with a good book. These islands are quieter than the popular spots, offering a peaceful escape and the chance for authentic island experiences away from crowds.

Transition to El Nido: Flights and Exploration

On day 6, you take a scenic flight from Coron to El Nido. The transfer itself is smooth, with a dedicated driver taking you from the airport to your accommodation. El Nido is smaller than Coron but equally stunning—famous for its towering limestone formations and turquoise lagoons.

El Nido: Secret Beaches and Caves

Your time in El Nido is divided between relaxing and exploring. The Hidden Beach and Hidden Beach tour on Day 7 is often highlighted as the highlight of the trip. The guides make the experience special, revealing hidden spots behind cliffs that feel like secret treasures. Matinloc Shrine provides panoramic views, rounding out a day packed with natural wonders.

Reviewers frequently mention that the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience more meaningful. The island hopping tours are well-paced, allowing plenty of time to swim, snorkel, or simply soak in the scenery.

Snake Island and Other Coastal Caves

On Day 9, your adventure continues to Snake Island, known for its long stretch of sand, and Entalula Island, with its dramatic cliffs and powdery beaches. The Cudugnon Cave also makes an appearance, offering a glimpse of local history and impressive rock formations.

Travelers note that the group size (usually five or fewer) enhances the experience, making it easier to interact with guides and enjoy the surroundings without feeling rushed.

Puerto Princesa and the Underground River

After El Nido, you fly to Puerto Princesa, where you’ll visit the Underground River, a UNESCO site. The boat tour through the caves is a highlight, with stalactites and stalagmites creating a surreal landscape. The guides are well-informed, adding context to the stunning visuals.

The Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour is praised for being well-organized, though the environmental fee and entrance fee** are additional costs to keep in mind. The tour lasts about 8 hours, making it a full day’s adventure.

Free Days and Last-Minute Exploration

The last days in Puerto Princesa and Manila are ideal for relaxing or exploring at your own pace. Some travelers enjoy wandering local markets or grabbing a farewell meal of fresh seafood.

The value of this tour is clear—everything from flights, accommodations, and most tours are included, meaning no hidden costs or last-minute stress. The baggage allowance of 20kg is generous, accommodating travelers with ample gear for island exploring.

Transportation is well-managed, with private transfers from airport to hotel and between islands. Group sizes are kept small, offering a more personalized experience, which many reviewers appreciate.

The itinerary balances busy days with leisure, giving you time to relax in beautiful surroundings or explore on your own. The hotels are comfortable, with breakfast included, though you might find the level of luxury varies depending on your preferences.

Why it’s a good deal?

Compared to booking each element separately, the package offers excellent value—particularly considering the logistics involved in island-hopping, flight transfers, and guided tours. The reviews repeatedly mention the knowledgeable guides and smooth arrangements as major plus points, making it ideal for travelers who want a hassle-free trip.

Who will love this tour?

If you’re someone who prefers a structured itinerary that hits all the must-see spots, this tour is perfect. It’s also great for first-time visitors who want a comprehensive experience without the stress of planning. Nature lovers, beach enthusiasts, and those craving authentic island adventures will find this tour rewarding.

While $2,144 might seem steep, it’s an all-in-one package that offers a full 14 days of exploring Palawan’s best sites—from stunning lagoons and secret beaches to iconic caves and historic shipwrecks. The included flights, transfers, accommodations, and guided tours make it a convenient and reliable choice.

Many travelers have praised the professionalism of the guides and the quality of the tours, with some calling the itinerary “second to none.” The combination of well-chosen sites and expert guidance ensures your journey is as enriching as it is enjoyable.

This trip is especially suited for first-timers or those who want to experience Palawan without the headaches of logistics, relying on trusted professionals to handle the details. If you’re after authentic natural beauty, comfortable accommodations, and expert insights, this package delivers.

FAQs

• Are flights included? Yes, all domestic flights are covered, with a 20kg baggage allowance included.
• How long are the tours each day? Most tours last around 7-8 hours, with some exceptions like the Underground River tour, which takes about 8 hours.
• Can I customize this itinerary? Since it’s a packaged tour, modifications aren’t typically offered, but the itinerary is well-balanced for most interests.
• Are meals included? Breakfast is included daily, and some lunches are included with the tours. Other meals are at your own expense.
• What about environmental fees? The Underground River fee (PHP 150) and Matinloc Shrine fee (PHP 200) are paid separately.
• Is group size small? Yes, a maximum of five travelers ensures more personalized attention and flexibility.
• Is this suitable for families? The tour suits most travelers, but check with the provider about specific age restrictions for certain activities.
• What is the accommodation like? Comfortable hotels with daily breakfast; the quality may vary but generally well-rated.
• How do I get to Manila after the trip? The tour includes return flights from Puerto Princesa or Coron back to Manila.
• Is this experience good value? Considering the included flights, accommodations, tours, and transfers, many travelers agree it’s a worthwhile investment for a hassle-free, diverse Palawan experience.

To sum it up, this 14-day Palawan tour offers an expertly curated, all-in-one experience designed for travelers wanting to see the best of Coron, El Nido, and Puerto Princesa. It combines natural beauty, well-organized tours, and the convenience of a guided package. Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, or unforgettable scenery, this trip promises a memorable journey through one of the Philippines’ most stunning regions.