Puerto Princesa walking tour & city guide
Gateway to Palawan's underground river.
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Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan, is a clean, green city and the starting point for the famous Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Underground River
Boats paddle into a vast cave where a river flows for kilometers under limestone mountains, among stalactites and bats. It is one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature.
The city and bay
The Baywalk is a seaside promenade with food stalls in the evening. Honda Bay island-hopping trips visit sandbars and snorkeling spots.
A day in Puerto Princesa
Most visitors come for the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, a UNESCO-listed underground river that flows through a cave into the sea. Paddle boats glide into the darkness past huge chambers of stalactites. The trip takes most of a day and permits must be booked ahead.
Another day can be spent island-hopping in Honda Bay, with snorkeling stops at Starfish Island and Luli Island. In the city, Baywalk is a pleasant promenade at sunset.
Good to know
Puerto Princesa is the main entry point to Palawan, with flights from Manila and Cebu. Vans run north to El Nido and Port Barton.
The city is known for its environmental programs and clean streets. Try the local delicacy tamilok, a woodworm from mangroves, if you dare.
Top sights in Puerto Princesa
- 1
Puerto Princesa Underground River
A river through a vast cave.
- 2
Honda Bay
Island hopping and sandbars.
- 3
Baywalk
A seaside promenade.
- 4
Plaza Cuartel
A historic wartime site.
- 5
Mitra's Ranch
Views over the bay.
Food markets & where to eat in Puerto Princesa
Baywalk food stalls
Grilled seafood in the evening.
Rizal Avenue
Restaurants and cafés.
Public market
Fresh fish.
Food to try in Puerto Princesa
Tamilok
A woodworm delicacy, for the brave.
Crocodile sisig
A local twist on sisig.
Cashew nuts
Palawan's famous snack.
Opening hours and prices change often. Please check with each place before you visit.
Plan your trip to Puerto Princesa
Enjoyed the walk? Here is everything you need to see it for real.
- Hotels in Puerto PrincesaCompare places to stay and prices.
- Tours & ticketsWalking tours, museums and day trips in Puerto Princesa.
- eSIM for PhilippinesStay online from the moment you land.
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