Puerto Princesa isn’t just about stunning beaches and lush landscapes; it’s also a city with a fascinating history that’s worth exploring. Whether you’re captivated by ancient caves, WWII memorials, or the story of how the city transformed from a humble fishing village to a bustling hub, the options here are plentiful. We particularly like the Puerto Princesa Underground River Day Tour for its awe-inspiring natural beauty and the Palawan Historical Tour for its comprehensive cultural insights. For a personal touch, the Private City Heritage Tour offers a flexible way to explore at your own pace. If you want a quick but rich walk through the city’s story, the Puerto Princesa Heritage Walk is perfect. And for those who want a deep dive into the museums and local heritage, the Museum and Heritage Tour delivers.
Each of these tours provides a different way to connect with Puerto Princesa’s past—from natural wonders to city landmarks—making this city a must-visit for history lovers.
Quick Overview
On this list, you’ll find adventure-based tours like the Puerto Princesa Underground River Day Tour, which combines boat rides and jungle walks, along with cultural and city-focused experiences like the Palawan Historical Tour and the City Heritage Walk that peel back layers of the local story. There’s also a private, customizable option with the Puerto Princesa City Heritage Tour, and a museum-centered experience with the Museum and Heritage Tour. Each offers a different pace, focus, and price point, so consider what kind of story you want to take home.
1. Puerto Princesa Underground River Day Tour a UNESCO heritage site
The Puerto Princesa Underground River Day Tour is a must for anyone eager to see one of the world’s most stunning natural wonders. For around $60, you get door-to-door transfers, a boat journey beneath stalactites, and a short jungle walk to the cave entrance. Inside, you’ll glide through roughly 3,280 feet (1 km) of the spectacular underground river, which is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. The tour includes a buffet lunch and a chance to spot giant monitor lizards roaming through the jungle.
What makes this tour stand out is the sheer awe factor of the underground river. The towering stalactites and stalagmites, combined with the eerie silence of the cavern, make it a surreal experience. The small-group setting means more personal attention, and the boat ride is an intimate way to explore. Reviewers often mention how impressive the caves are, noting Anna’s guide expertise and the lush surroundings as highlights. A slight drawback is the early arrival at the pier, but most agree the experience outweighs the logistics.
Bottom Line: Perfect for nature lovers who want to combine adventure with UNESCO-listed scenery in a day.
2. Puerto Princesa Palawan Historical Tour
For about $138, this comprehensive historical and cultural tour takes you through Puerto Princesa’s key landmarks and stories. It’s a full day of exploring sites like the City Baywalk Park, once a slum that was transformed into a lively community space, and the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, the city’s oldest church. The tour also includes a visit to the Palawan Special Battalion WW2 Memorial Museum, where you can see relics such as WWII vehicles and old weaponry.
Led by an engaging guide, this tour is particularly valued for its storytelling—covering everything from the city’s recovery from war to its more recent development. Reviewers mention how Janua and driver Al made the day relaxed and informative, with plenty of time at each stop. The highlight for many is the insight into Palawan’s role during WWII and the local efforts to preserve history.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history buffs who want a detailed, guided look at Puerto Princesa’s past in a manageable six-hour format.
3. Private Puerto Princesa City Heritage Tour
The Private City Heritage Tour gives you a tailored experience—lasting 6 to 8 hours and costing around $101.36 per person. This trip is all about personalization, taking you from Mitra’s Ranch to the Palawan Heritage Center and Mitra’s Ranch, the former home of a notable political figure. You’ll also visit the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center and the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, with your guide sharing detailed stories along the way.
What makes this tour compelling is its flexibility. It’s perfect if you want to focus on specific sites or spend more time at places that pique your interest. The tour also includes a family-friendly approach, making it suitable for travelers of all ages. Reviewers appreciate the full attention of the guide and the chance to learn about Palawan’s culture and history in depth.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking a personalized, comprehensive day with local insights.
$101.36 per person
4. Puerto Princesa Heritage Walk: Stories of the City
If you’re short on time but want a meaningful taste of Puerto Princesa history, the Heritage Walk is a great pick. For about $56 for a group of up to two people, this 3 to 4-hour walking tour explores the city’s main streets, including Rizal Avenue, and visits places like the Palawan Museum and Plaza Cuartel. Led by an expert storyteller, you’ll learn exciting facts about the city’s evolution from a fishing village to a lively urban center.
What’s special here is the intimate, on-foot approach that allows you to experience local life directly. The tour includes visits to museums and historic sites, plus a local food market stop. Reviewers praise the authentic stories and the personal attention, making it a good choice for those who enjoy walking and deepening their connection to the city’s everyday history.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a short, engaging, and narrative-driven experience.
$56 per group up to 2
5. Puerto Princesa: Museum and Heritage Tour
The Museum and Heritage Tour is perfect for those wanting an in-depth look at Palawan’s cultural roots. For about $150, you get a private group experience visiting several museums, including the Palawan Heritage Center and the Palawan Museum. You can choose morning or afternoon departures, and the option to add lunch or dinner makes this a flexible option.
This tour is highly rated, with reviews praising the guide’s detailed knowledge of Palawan’s history. It’s especially suited for travelers interested in pre-colonial culture, WWII history, and local traditions. The visit to the Palawan Heritage Center provides a well-rounded narrative, making it a scholarly but accessible experience.
Bottom Line: Best for history enthusiasts or families interested in a relaxed, museum-focused day.
$150 per group up to 4
How to Choose
Picking the ideal tour depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. If you’re drawn to natural wonders and caves, the Puerto Princesa Underground River is unmatched. For a deep dive into city history, the Palawan Historical Tour or the Heritage Walk offer excellent storytelling and local insights.
If you prefer a customizable experience that covers everything at your own pace, the Private City Heritage Tour is the best choice. For museum lovers, the Museum and Heritage Tour provides a comprehensive cultural overview.
Consider your energy level—walking tours are shorter but more active, while full-day bus or private tours cover more ground but require more time. Booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and enjoy all that Puerto Princesa’s history has to offer.
In summary, Puerto Princesa offers a rich selection of history and heritage tours suited for every type of traveler—from adventure seekers to culture connoisseurs. Whether you want to marvel at a UNESCO-listed river, stroll city streets with a storyteller, or explore museums at your own pace, there’s a tour that fits your style. For the best experience, pick one that matches your interests, book ahead, and prepare for a deep dive into Palawan’s captivating past.