Palawan

Philippines

Palawan is renowned for its stunning limestone karsts, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. It's a paradise for island hopping, diving, and exploring pristine lagoons and hidden beaches.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay5 days
Budget$30/day
Mid-range$50/day
Luxury$600/day

Known For

El NidoCoronPuerto PrincesaSiargaoBoracay

🇵🇭 Country Information: Philippines

CapitalManila
CurrencyPhilippine peso (₱)
Language Filipino (Tagalog) , English, Cebuano, Ilocano, Hiligaynon, Bicolano, Waray, Kapampangan, Pangasinan
Phone Code+63
Electricity220V (Type A, B, C)
Tap WaterNot recommended

Tipping

  • Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in restaurants (10
  • 15%), for hotel staff (50
  • 100 PHP), and for tour guides/drivers (100
  • 300 PHP per day)
  • Small tips for bellhops and porters are common

Money & Payments

  • ATMs are common in urban areas but less so in rural areas
  • Credit cards are accepted in major establishments but cash is preferred for smaller vendors and rural areas
  • It is generally better to bring a mix of cash and cards
  • There is no recognized black market for cash

Cultural Norms

  • Filipinos are generally polite and respectful, especially to elders
  • It is customary to use "po" and "opo" when speaking to elders or those in authority as a sign of respect
  • Removing shoes before entering someone's home is common
  • Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon
  • Eating with hands (kamayan) is traditional for some dishes, but utensils are also widely used

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. The Philippines has a generally tolerant attitude towards LGBTQ+ individuals, but same-sex marriage is not yet legal. Discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is prohibited in some local ordinances.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

  • Legal drinking age is 18
  • Drug laws are extremely strict, with severe penalties including life imprisonment and the death penalty for drug offenses
  • Even small amounts of drugs can lead to harsh sentences

Special Laws

  • Jaywalking is strictly enforced in some cities and can result in fines
  • Vaping and e
  • cigarettes are regulated and restricted in public places
  • Photography of government or military installations may be restricted

Common Phrases

NoHindi (heen-dee) Hindi
YesOo (oh-oh) Oo
HelloKumusta (koo-moos-tah) Kumusta
PleasePaki (pah-kee) Paki
Excuse mePaumanhin (pah-oo-man-heen) Paumanhin
Thank youSalamat (sah-lah-mat) Salamat

Climate

Generalized climate for the entire island group.

Climate Zone: Tropical Savanna

Best Time to Visit

Getting There

Getting Around

Health & Vaccinations

Staying Connected

Local Cuisine

Chicken Inasal must_try

A popular grilled chicken dish marinated in a unique mix of spices, herbs, and vinegar, then basted with annatto oil as it cooks over hot coals. The r

Tamilok regional_speciality

Also known as 'wood worm,' this mollusk is found inside decaying mangrove trees and is considered a delicacy in Palawan. It is typically eaten raw, si

Halo-Halo dessert

A famous Filipino dessert that literally means 'mix-mix.' It is a colorful and sweet concoction made of shaved ice, milk, various sweetened beans, fru

Crocodile Sisig must_try

A unique Palawan twist on the classic Filipino sisig, this dish uses minced crocodile meat instead of pork. The meat is usually grilled or sauteed and

Kinilaw regional_speciality

Often called the Filipino ceviche, kinilaw consists of cubes of fresh raw seafood, typically tuna or fish caught that day, marinated in vinegar. Essen

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour Permit & Slot permit_or_pass
Book at least 2 weeks, ideally 1-2 months, in advance

The Underground River is a UNESCO site with a strict daily quota (permit) for visitors; slots often sell out far in advance.

El Nido Island Hopping Tours (A, C, B, D) tour_or_activity
Book 1 week to 1 month in advance

Private and popular group tours, especially Tour A and C, fill up quickly due to high demand and limited boat capacity, particularly in peak season.

Coron Island Hopping Tours (Super Ultimate Tour, Escapade) tour_or_activity
Book 1 week to 1 month in advance

Tours to key Coron spots like Kayangan Lake and Twin Lagoon have high visitor volumes, and securing a spot, especially for private tours, requires early booking.

Fun Facts

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