Palawan
Palawan is one of the most beautiful places in the Philippines, and perhaps even the world. Its raw natural setting evokes images of paradise, from its limestone karst islands, hidden lagoons, white-sand beaches and world-class dive sites. There are dense forests and valley deltas amid the diverse topography. Best of all, most of it remains undeveloped.
This mini-archipelago begins just southwest of Manila and touches almost all the way down to Borneo, and its collective coastline spans almost 1,200 miles. Its location between the Sulu Sea in the southeast and the South China Sea in the northeast, both large bodies of water, means many of its islands are remote and uninhabited. There are many beautiful beaches in this province, as well as two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Tubbataha Reef National Marine Park and the Puerto Prinsesa Subterranean River.
Since the province is so spread out, it's best to pick a starting point, either in the north or the south. The capital, Puerto Princesa, is the entryway to the south, where El Nido's lush islands and lagoons are, while Busuanga provides access to the small island resorts and wreck diving in the north. Fishing villages, mountains, jungles, trekking, hiking, island-hopping and diving are on offer in both locations.
Experiences
A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.
Batak Tribal Excursion
Embark on a journey deep into the Filipino jungle to meet members of one of the Philippines’ few remaining indigenous tribes: the Batak. While the Batak were originally nomads, the encroachment of modern culture has gradually led them into forming settlements throughout the Palawan Province. After a two hour trek into the jungle, members of the tribe will greet your party and lead you on a tour of the village. In some ways, the Batak are fairly modern—many wear western clothing, and teens play basketball. However they continue to live in the lifestyle of hunter-gatherers, always a few steps removed from contemporary society. The total excursion lasts approximately 5-7 hours.
Diving & Snorkeling
Palawan is arguably one of the best dive and snorkel destinations in the world. The 1,200 islands in this mini-archipelago are home to marine sanctuaries with healthy coral reefs, large fish, sharks, manta rays, dugongs, sea turtles and giant clams. Tubattaha Reef, accessible only by private yacht, contains one of the largest concentrations of marine biodiversity worldwide.
Hidden Lagoons
The turquoise lagoons of Palawan are truly a slice of paradise. Come by local outrigger to the island, go on a short hike to the hidden lagoons and enjoy a picnic in this serene setting. These saltwater lakes --a rarity-- can be found in the northern part of Palawan, in Coron, as well as in the south, at El Nido.
Puerto Princesa Subterranean River
Board a raft and cruise to one of the world's great natural wonders (and UNESCO World Heritage site), the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River. While the true length and breadth of the river is still being explored, it seems likely that it is the longest underground river in the world, with depths that can only be reached with the aid of an oxygen tank and a second level, accessible by underground waterfalls (discovered in 2010). Your tour will take you along the safer stretches of the cave, past stunning karst formations as well as hundreds of species of flora and fauna, still being studied.
Tabon Caves
This is the cradle of Philippine civilization. The Tabon Caves are a series of chambers housing various tools and artifacts.Tabon Man is believed to be 22,000 years old. Archaeologists believe he came to the Philippines from Borneo.
Ugong Rock Hike
Enjoy an easy hike up the subtler inclines of Ugong Rock, a beautifully forested karst cliff face at the base of a 300-foot mountain, estimated to be 23 million years old. Your hike will take you over brush, among twisting trees and through man-sized rock crevices. For your descent, you will have the option of a thrilling zip-line ride to the base of the hill.
Wreck Diving
Divers should head to Coron for spectacular wreck diving. Explore over a dozen vessels ranging from gun boats to container ships, mostly sunk around WW2 when these vessels tried to navigate Coron's dense cluster of karst islands.
Philippines Regions
Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below on the right.
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Exclusively Asia
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, in the continent that our north American founders Catherine and Jay have adored and explored for decades, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
Travelogues
An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands - a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.
5 Exciting Non-Beach Adventures on Palawan
- Author
- Travelogues
Trying to convince travelers not to visit the beaches of Palawan and Coron would be the act of a lunatic, but there are quite a few hidden treasures inland.
Remote Lands Hot Winter Pick: Palawan for the Beaches
- Author
- Travelogues
If you’re watching the latest season of Naked and Afraid XL, you probably think Palawan is a lot tougher than it is. Check out this Remote Lands pick for your winter holiday in 2020.
Remote Lands’ Dozen Dream Destinations for 2014
- Author
- Remote Lands
Yes, it’s that time again – time to unveil our hottest Asia destinations for 2014! These are special destinations you won’t want to miss.
What Others Say
Here is a small selection of the kind words our clients have said about us recently.
A couple from Holland - Aman Jet Expedition, Spring 2016
People keep asking us which country we enjoyed the most, it's very hard to say, there were special experiences everywhere.
A couple from Florida - Aman Jet Expedition, Spring 2016
As the trip progressed strangers became friends. Particularly special was the effortlessness: perfect logistics, never having to worry about anything, and, of course, the charming and thoughtful way you organised everything.
Jessika and David, Los Angeles
There was an authenticity to the type of experience set up for us that made every city we visited special and gave us countless moments we will never forget.
