An 8-day adventure exploring Palawan’s top sights—from Manila to Puerto Princesa, San Vicente, and El Nido—this tour offers a well-rounded taste of the Philippines’ crown jewel. Priced at $1,826 per person, it includes flights, all transfers, hotel stays, and highlights like the Puerto Princesa Underground River and El Nido’s famous lagoons.

Two things we particularly appreciated are the seamless itinerary—everything is arranged for maximum convenience—and the chance to see some of Palawan’s most iconic landscapes in a relatively short time. The included tours to hidden lagoons and coral reefs are real highlights.

A small caveat? The tour calendar requires a 14-day lead time for booking, so planning ahead is essential. This package suits travelers who want a structured yet flexible way to experience Palawan’s natural beauty without the hassle of organizing every detail themselves.

Who would love this? Anyone eager to see Palawan’s best-known sights with a mix of guided tours and personal exploration. If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive sample of Palawan’s beaches, caves, and islands, this is a solid choice.

Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary covering Palawan’s most famous attractions in 8 days
Includes all domestic flights and transfers, simplifying logistics
Authentic experiences like the UNESCO-listed Puerto Princesa Underground River
Island hopping tours offer stunning lagoons, beaches, and marine life
Accommodation in comfortable hotels throughout the trip
Requires a 14-day booked-in-advance notice for arrangement efficiency

Exploring the Palawan Experience: What You Can Expect

This tour is designed to give you an immersive yet manageable adventure through Palawan’s most captivating spots. Starting in Manila, it takes you to Puerto Princesa for the unforgettable ride through the Underground River, then on to San Vicente’s pristine islands before settling in El Nido, the region famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise lagoons.

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Day 1-2: Manila & Travel to Palawan

Your journey begins in Manila, where a driver will meet you at the airport and escort you to comfortable accommodation. This initial day is perfect for settling in, perhaps sampling Filipino dishes or exploring nearby sights. The next day involves a short 90-minute flight to Puerto Princesa—a city known for its charming atmosphere and as your gateway to Palawan’s marvels.

Day 3: Puerto Princesa Underground River

The highlight of your visit to Puerto Princesa is the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Underground River. A guide and driver will take you on a trip that’s as much about the striking rock formations and caves as it is about the sense of adventure. Expect a boat ride through a mystical cave system, where wildlife and breathtaking natural architecture are on full display.

This tour is a major draw—one reviewer called it a “must-see” and praised the smooth organization involved in making this happen. Keep in mind, there’s a PHP 150 environmental fee, which is typical for protected areas in the Philippines.

Day 4: San Vicente and Island-Hopping

Next up is San Vicente, a less crowded but equally stunning spot known for its white sand beaches and clear waters. You’ll go on a shared island-hopping tour to Boayan Island, one of Palawan’s hidden gems. The boat ride offers a serene escape from city life, and the beaches here are perfect for relaxing or snapping photos of untouched nature.

Day 5: El Nido’s Big Lagoon and More

El Nido is the star of this trip. The famous Island Hopping Tour A takes you to the Big Lagoon, where towering limestone cliffs surround calm, mirror-like waters. You’ll also visit Shimizu Island for snorkeling—some of the best marine life sightings in Palawan—and Secret Lagoon, a hidden retreat behind a limestone wall, adding a sense of adventure and discovery.

The tours are highly rated, and one reviewer called the experience “breathtaking,” emphasizing the stunning views and peaceful waters. Just note, entrance fees like the PHP 200 for Big Lagoon are additional expenses.

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Day 6-7: Leisure & Flight Back to Manila

While in El Nido, you can simply unwind or explore the town’s shops and beaches at your own pace. For some, that’s the ideal way to soak up the laid-back island vibe. If you’re craving more adventure, booking another island-hopping tour might be tempting, though it’s not included in this package.

On day 7, you’ll take a flight back to Manila, arriving in time for a relaxed evening or to revisit favorite spots. The last day is free for your own explorations before heading home.

Day 8: Departure

Your adventure concludes with a transfer to the airport from Manila, giving you a chance to reflect on your breathtaking experiences and beautiful memories.

Transportation, Accommodation, and Logistics

The tour ensures smooth transportation, with all transfers included—from airport pickups to boat rides. The flights are domestic, with a 20kg baggage allowance, fitting for travel light but prepared. Accommodation varies from urban hotels in Manila to cozy stays in Puerto Princesa, San Vicente, and El Nido, all selected for comfort and location.

Because the tour is designed with small groups (up to 5 travelers), you’ll find the experience more intimate and flexible. The group tours like island-hopping are shared, but they tend to be well-organized, with enough space to relax and enjoy the scenery.

What We Loved

The attention to detail—from the well-planned itinerary to the smooth booking process—makes this tour stand out. We also appreciated the chance to see Palawan’s most iconic spots without the stress of planning each step ourselves.

A Possible Drawback

The main consideration is the requirement for a 14-day lead time for booking, which means early planning is essential. Also, some of the fees (like entrance fees) are additional, so budget accordingly.

The Value of This Tour

At $1,826, this package offers a comprehensive experience: flights, accommodation, key attractions, and guided tours in one convenient package. While it’s not the cheapest option, it provides value for money given the inclusions and the convenience of having everything organized—especially helpful if you’re unfamiliar with Philippines travel logistics.

The highlight attractions—the Underground River, lagoon-hopping in El Nido—are genuinely extraordinary, making this a worthy investment for those wanting an authentic taste of Palawan’s natural beauty. The guided tours are also designed to maximize your time and ensure you don’t miss the most photogenic, awe-inspiring spots.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re a traveler who values structured itineraries but still wants to experience Palawan’s highlights, this tour fits the bill. It’s perfect for those who are comfortable with a small group setting and appreciate the comfort of organized transportation and accommodations.

Nature lovers eager to see stunning lagoons, caves, and beaches will find this trip a memorable highlight. Also, if you prefer not to worry about logistics—flights, transfers, entrance fees—this package offers a hassle-free adventure into one of the Philippines’ most beautiful regions.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the tour accommodates solo travelers, and with a maximum group size of five, it offers a personable experience. The small-group format encourages socializing and shared adventures.

Are flights included in the price?
Absolutely, all domestic flights are included, with a baggage allowance of 20kg. This is a major convenience, removing the need to book separate tickets.

What are the main attractions I will see?
You’ll visit the Puerto Princesa Underground River, go island-hopping around San Vicente, and enjoy Big Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and Secret Lagoon in El Nido—all of which are breathtaking natural sites.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included, and some tours include lunch. Other meals not specified are at your expense, so budget for additional dining options.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, a hat, waterproof camera, and comfortable shoes. A small amount of cash is handy for entrance fees and souvenirs.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While designed for adults and small groups, the activities are generally suitable for travelers with a reasonable level of mobility and comfort with boat rides and outdoor exploration.

This 8-day Palawan tour offers a well-balanced, hassle-free way to experience the Philippines’ most iconic natural wonders. It’s ideal for travelers who want a guided yet authentic journey into one of the world’s most stunning archipelagos. With its mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural sights, it promises memories that will last a lifetime—without the headache of organizing logistics.