· PH

Palawan

Palawan, Philippines

Palawan: Where Adventure Meets Paradise in the Philippines Escape to Palawan, an archipelago province in the Philippines, where emerald isles rise from crystal-clear turquoise waters and jungle-clad mountains hide secret…

#Island#Beach#Tropical#Diving#Nature

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Palawan.

Top Hotels in Palawan

Top Flights to Palawan

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Palawan.

Tours

Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour

Discover one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature with an exciting journey through the underground river.

Shopping

Shopping at Robinsons Place Palawan

Experience the charm of Palawan through an array of local and international stores.

Outdoor

Island Hopping in El Nido

Explore the pristine beaches and clear turquoise waters of El Nido's islands.

Coron Wreck Diving

Dive into the clear turquoise waters of Coron and explore historical shipwrecks from World War II.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Palawan.

Currency

₱ | PHP | Philippine Peso

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Palawan, Philippines is 1.2 million.

Languages

Filipino, Cuyonon, Tagbanwa, English

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Palawan.

What people love

There are many benefits of traveling to Palawan, Philippines. Here are some detailed pros of visiting Palawan:

Stunning Natural Beauty: Palawan is known for its breathtaking natural landscapes, including crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, lush forests, and dramatic limestone cliffs. Visitors can explore the stunning beauty of places like El Nido, Coron, and Puerto Princesa.
Diverse Marine Life: Palawan is a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, with its rich marine biodiversity. The waters surrounding Palawan are home to numerous species of colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, sea turtles, and even whale sharks.
Unique Island Hopping Opportunities: Palawan offers fantastic island hopping experiences, allowing visitors to explore different islands and coves. Each island has its own charm and attractions, from hidden lagoons to pristine beaches.
Underground River: Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the famous Puerto Princesa Underground River. Visitors can take a boat tour through this underground river and marvel at the stunning limestone formations and unique ecosystem.
Eco-Tourism Initiatives: Palawan is known for its commitment to sustainable tourism practices and environmental conservation. Travelers can support eco-friendly initiatives and responsible tourism while enjoying the natural beauty of the region.
Warm Hospitality: The locals in Palawan are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness towards tourists. Visitors can experience the unique culture and traditions of the Palaweno people and immerse themselves in the local way of life.

Overall, traveling to Palawan offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Enjoy your trip to Palawan!

What to know

Traveling to Palawan, Philippines, specifically Palawan, can have some cons that travelers should be aware of. Some of the potential drawbacks include:

Limited transportation options: Palawan is a remote island, so transportation options within the island and to other parts of the Philippines may be limited compared to more developed areas.
Weather concerns: Palawan can experience typhoons and heavy rainfall, particularly during the rainy season from June to September. This can affect travel plans and outdoor activities.
Limited healthcare facilities: While there are hospitals and clinics in Palawan, the healthcare facilities may not be as advanced as those in larger cities. Travelers with specific medical needs should plan accordingly.
Tourist crowds: Palawan is a popular tourist destination, especially places like El Nido and Coron. During peak seasons, these areas can get crowded, which may detract from the overall experience for some travelers.
Environmental impact: The influx of tourists to Palawan can put a strain on the local environment, leading to issues such as pollution and habitat destruction. Travelers should be mindful of their impact on the natural surroundings.

Overall, while Palawan is a beautiful destination with much to offer, travelers should be prepared for some potential challenges and plan accordingly.

Palawan, a province in the Philippines, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and rich history. Here is a detailed account of its history, significant events, historical figures, and landmarks:

Early History

Precolonial Period: Palawan has been inhabited for thousands of years, with archaeological evidence from Tabon Caves in Quezon indicating human presence as far back as 47,000 years ago. The Tabon Man, whose remains were found in these caves, is one of the earliest human inhabitants discovered in the Philippines.
Indigenous Cultures: The indigenous peoples of Palawan, such as the Batak, Tagbanua, and Palaw’an, have lived in the region for centuries, practicing a lifestyle that is closely connected to nature.

Spanish Colonial Period

1521: The arrival of Ferdinand Magellan marked the beginning of Spanish interest in the Philippines. However, it was not until the late 16th century that Spain began to exert control over Palawan.
Renaming and Colonization: Originally known as Paragua, Palawan was administered by the Spanish through various missions and settlements. The province became part of the larger Spanish East Indies.
Spanish Fortifications: Fort Santa Isabel in Taytay, built in the 1660s, is a notable landmark from this period, serving as a defense against pirates and foreign invaders.

American and Japanese Occupation

American Period: Following the Spanish-American War in 1898, the Philippines was ceded to the United States. During this time, Palawan was made a separate province in 1902.
World War II: Palawan was occupied by Japanese forces during the war. A tragic event occurred on December 14, 1944, known as the Palawan Massacre, where Japanese soldiers killed around 150 American prisoners of war.

Post-War and Modern Development

Liberation and Independence: Palawan was liberated by Allied forces in 1945. After the Philippines gained independence in 1946, Palawan underwent significant development.
Environmental Conservation: In the late 20th century, Palawan emerged as a leader in environmental conservation. The province is home to the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park and the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Significant Landmarks

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park: Known for its unique geological formations and biodiversity, this park is one of the New7Wonders of Nature.
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park: Recognized for its marine biodiversity, it is a top diving destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
El Nido and Coron: Famous for their dramatic karst landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and rich marine life, they are popular tourist destinations.

Notable Figures

Juan Salcedo: A Spanish conquistador who played a role in the early exploration and administration of Palawan during the Spanish colonial period.
Brooke's Point: Named after Sir James Brooke, the "White Rajah" of Sarawak, reflecting historical trade and diplomatic interactions in the region.

Palawan's history is a tapestry of indigenous cultures, colonial influences, and modern developments, all set against the backdrop of its unparalleled natural beauty.