Palawan isn’t just about beaches and stunning scenery—it’s also a place where city life and natural wonders come together in a way that makes for memorable day trips and adventures. Whether you’re after a ** UNESCO World Heritage Site**, a lively city immersion, or an island-hopping feast, Palawan offers options that suit different interests and budgets. One of our favorite experiences is the Underground River Day Trip from Puerto Princesa, which combines an awe-inspiring natural wonder with the convenience of a guided tour. The chance to paddle through a massive underground river—one of the New Seven Wonders of the World—is truly special.
If city sightseeing is more your style, the Puerto Princesa Palawan City Tour offers a compact yet comprehensive look at the local culture, history, and landmarks. For those craving a beach escape, the Port Barton Island Hopping combines pristine white sands with the chance to swim with turtles. And for travelers interested in deepening their understanding of Palawan’s roots, the Private Tabon Cave Day Tour offers a fascinating glimpse into early human history. Below, we’ll break down each tour to help you find the perfect fit.
1. Underground River Day Trip from Puerto Princesa City
This tour is a standout for anyone eager to see one of Palawan’s most famous natural landmarks—the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River. For about $50 per person, you’ll spend 6 to 8 hours exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site, which features a massive underground river system filled with stalactites and stalagmites. The guided trip includes entrance fees and lunch—though you’ll need to pay a small environmental fee separately.
What makes this tour really shine is the opportunity to paddle down the underground river in a small boat, allowing you to get up close to the spectacular cave formations. You’ll also visit Sabang Beach nearby, a popular starting point for the adventure. The tour is flexible, with options to upgrade to a private experience or add activities like ziplining over the jungle canopy, a mangrove tour, or a relaxing massage. The reviews are strong, with a 4.5/5 rating from 236 travelers, praising the efficiency, professionalism, and the “spectacular” cave experience. One visitor noted, “The cave is spectacular, and paddling in a local boat with a guide was unforgettable.”
Bottom line: This tour offers excellent value for a full day of adventure, suitable for families and cruisers alike. It’s physically accessible, but be prepared for a somewhat long day on the water.
2. Puerto Princesa Palawan City Tour
For travelers interested in cultural sights and local history, this half-day tour provides a balanced overview of Puerto Princesa. Priced at just $18 per person for approximately 4 hours, it’s an affordable way to see key landmarks without feeling rushed. The tour includes a visit to the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, the Palawan Rescue Center, and Mitra’s Ranch—plus a walk along the scenic Puerto Princesa Bay Walk.
The city tour is perfect for those who want a quick yet meaningful introduction to Puerto Princesa’s heritage and everyday life. The highlight for many is the visit to the Palawan Wildlife Rescue Center, where you can see endangered crocodiles and rescued animals. The reviews are stellar, with a perfect 5/5 rating from 3 travelers, who praise the knowledgeable guides and the variety of sights. One review mentions, “Rhys was flexible, and the stops gave us a great sense of the city’s history and culture.”
Bottom line: Ideal for budget-conscious travelers seeking a concise city experience with plenty of local flavor. It’s a good choice if you’re short on time but want to get a feel for Puerto Princesa’s character.
3. Port Barton Island Hopping from Puerto Princesa City
Looking for a beach and snorkeling adventure? The Port Barton Island Hopping tour is a full-day, 14- to 18-hour trip costing $99 per person. It’s perfect for those who want to escape the city and spend time on undisturbed beaches and clear waters. Port Barton itself is only about three hours from Puerto Princesa, but this tour whisks you straight to its pristine shores, where you might even spot a turtle or two.
The main draw is the chance to enjoy powdery white sands, coral reefs, and calm lagoons. The tour is typically a boat trip that visits several small islands and beaches, with snorkeling gear included. While there’s only one review on record, it’s glowing, emphasizing the unspoiled nature of the beaches and the snorkeling opportunities. It’s an ideal day trip for adventurous, beach-loving travelers who want a break from city sightseeing.
Bottom line: This tour offers great value for a full day in paradise, especially if you’re keen on swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on quiet beaches. It’s best suited for those comfortable with long travel days and water excursions.
$99.00 per person
4. Puerto Princesa: Half-day Tour of the City
For travelers seeking a quick yet comprehensive introduction to Puerto Princesa, this 4-6 hour tour is a practical option at only $12 per person. It covers core sights like the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Plaza Cuartel, and the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center.
Led by a local guide, the tour offers insights into the city’s history, architecture, and wildlife conservation efforts. One reviewer appreciated the “diversity of stops and the opportunity to learn about Palawan’s past,” noting that the guide was engaging and informative. The tour is flexible, with options for private bookings, making it adaptable to your schedule.
Bottom line: This is a budget-friendly, hassle-free way to see the city’s highlights if you’re short on time. It’s perfect for first-time visitors or those who want a quick cultural fix.
5. Shore Excursion: Puerto city tour + museum tour + shopping
If you love combining sightseeing with shopping or museum visits, this private minivan rental might be your best bet. For around $35, you get 4-5 hours of flexible exploration with direct hotel pickup. You can tailor it to visit places like Bakers Hill, the World War II Museum, or local markets.
This tour is ideal for groups or families wanting a customized experience without the fuss of a big group tour. Your professional driver takes care of logistics, leaving you free to focus on what interests you most. The reviews are modest but positive, emphasizing the flexibility and convenience.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who prefer a personalized, relaxed city tour with options for shopping, cultural visits, or just wandering at your own pace.
$35.00 per person
6. Private Tabon Cave Day Tour from Puerto Princesa City
For those interested in early human history and natural wonders, this full-day tour takes you to the famous Tabon Caves. Starting early with a 5:30 AM pickup, you’ll spend about 8-10 hours exploring these ancient chambers, which are filled with artefacts and impressive rock formations. The tour includes a visit to the Tabon View restaurant for lunch, offering a scenic overlook of Lipuun Point.
This tour is less about city sights and more about archaeological exploration, making it perfect for history buffs or those wanting to see a different side of Palawan. At present, it has no reviews, but the detailed itinerary and expert guides promise a meaningful experience. The $160 per person price reflects the depth and exclusivity of the trip.
Bottom line: Best suited for curious travelers eager to understand Palawan’s early human settlement and natural geology in a guided, in-depth environment.
$160.00 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, schedule, and interests. If exploring a UNESCO-listed underground river is your top priority, the Underground River Day Trip offers excellent value and iconic sights. For a quick city overview, the Half-day City Tour provides a compact cultural snapshot.
Beach lovers should look at the Port Barton Island Hopping for its unspoiled waters, while history enthusiasts might prefer the Tabon Cave Tour for its archaeological significance. If flexibility and shopping are your priorities, the Shore Excursion offers tailored exploration.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date and tour options.
In summary, Palawan’s diverse tours cater to history buffs, beach lovers, city explorers, and adventure seekers alike. For a full experience, consider pairing a city tour with an island-hopping day or the underground river adventure. Whether you’re after cultural insights, natural wonders, or simply relaxing on a quiet beach, there’s a tour that fits your style. Planning ahead will ensure you make the most of your time in this beautiful part of the Philippines.