Eco-tourism
Palawan, known as the Philippines' "last ecological frontier," is a biodiversity-rich cluster of islands in the country's westernmost region. More than 200 indigenous species call it home. The endangered Calamian deer (Axis calamianensis) can only be found in Palawan, especially on the Calamian islands of Busuanga, Calauit, and Culion. The province has also seen marine turtles, dugongs, and whale sharks.
SNORKELING AND SCUBA DIVING
Onok Island
One of the most sought-after island in the Philippines is Onok Island, a little paradise island south of Palawan. Wild sea turtles, a coral reef, huge clams, a sand bar that appears during low tide, and a stilt over-water walkway are all present there. Onok Island stands out from the others. As you arrive, the island's beauty engulfs you. Everything about this island has a magical feel. The vast ocean, with its emerald water, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life.
Arena Island
Arena Island, a four-hectare island tucked away from your typical island retreat, is considered Palawan's best kept secret. Your private hideaway is waiting for you, striking the ideal mix between rustic charms and modern conveniences. Arena Island offers hectares of corals to fill your curiosity! The marine life is very diverse and alive by the Island. The water is pristine clear.
Tataran Island
Tataran is only 20 minutes from the city of Quezon and 500 meters from Tabon Cave. It features a very large swimming space, a variety of marine life, robust, colorful corals, a wonderful snorkeling location, a decent diving location, and a steady supply of freshwater.
Rasa Island
Less than 5% of Rasa Island's land area has been converted into coconut plantations, which are hidden by a band of old-growth mangrove, making it unique in that it still has a significant portion of its coastal forest in tact.The access to a birdwatching tower on Rasa may be limited owing to certain circumstances, like as weather conditions or a fire hazard. It is always feasible to snorkel outside of the primary protected zones and observe cockatoos from a boat or on the nearby mainland. At all times, only licensed boats and guides are permitted.
The Wall
Visibility is typically good when diving in the wall ( 10 - 30 m) The typical depth is 30 meters (98.4 feet).
To get to The Wall, you must take a boat. The oceans within and surrounding The Wall have excellent marine biodiversity. The greatest place to quickly learn what to anticipate when diving in Palawan is right here. You'll be surprised at how easy it is to get to the beautiful and varied underwater animals you'll find here.
Bulawit Bay
Seagrass completely covers the ocean floor in the shallow waters of Bulawit Bay. As you continue your dive, you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking vista of marine life, including batfish, pipefish, ribbonfish, eels, barracudas, and a vast variety of tropical fishes. The area is particularly well-known for its quantity of starfish.
Marine Parks and Island in Culion
Culion has multiple marine parks with magnificent coral reefs. Because the island was classified as a leper colony, these are all in good condition and teeming with schools of fish and other marine life. Bogor, Buyang Lutang, and Punta Dinamita are among the marine parks ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving, as well as the Crowning Glory, where sea turtles and dolphins have been observed.
TREKING AND CAVING
Tabon Cave
The Tabon Caves, also referred to as the "Cradle of Philippine Civilization," are home to priceless artifacts that provide a glimpse into the lives of the first people to set foot in Palawan. They include wooden implements, burial jars, and inscriptions on the cave walls.
Mt. Victoria
An undiscovered and wild location, Mount Victoria in the municipality of Narra, is home to an incredible variety of flora and fauna. The "amazing" rat-eating pitcher plant was only recently found in Mount Victoria, sparking a worldwide sensation among scientists and the media. Nepehenthes attenboroughii, as it is now known, is just one of the species whose identities are currently being uncovered in this alpine wonderland. Of course, this mountain's cultural significance is also noteworthy because it is home to the Tagbanua tribe.
Ille Cave
A clear archeological importance may be shown in the Ille Cave. It confirms the existence of people more than 12,000 years ago. During the excavations, potteries, animal bones, and evidence of cremation dating back as far as 8000 years were discovered. Such artifacts are not on display, but there are a few boards to offer you additional background on the cave and its history.
The cave will be accessible for you to tour. It is preferable to bring a light with you because it can get fairly dark. When exploring the cave, caution is essential because the rocks might be slippery in some spots. Moreover, it is possible to ascend the rocky outcrop above it.
Estrella Falls
Swim at Estrella Falls' crystal-clear waters as the lovely tropical jungle serves as your backdrop. Have a gourmet picnic lunch and go swimming in one of the several natural pools around Estrella Falls. Take in the natural beauty of the location and the surrounding lush vegetation. See butterflies and monkeys playing all around you as you unwind.
Kuyawyaw Falls
This is a group of three falls that are located 27 kilometers north of Taytay and flow into new pools. Less than 15 minutes from the gate, the second falls offer a charming small 4m cliff jump. These falls are also the tallest, standing at around 10 meters. The tranquil third falls (7m), which require a guide to access, are reached after a challenging 10-minute climb from the second falls with rope assistance.
Lalatuan Falls
A small bit of heaven on earth, Lalatuan Waterfall is hidden in a deep forest. The blue pool-like basin at the bottom of the 32-meter-high falls is surrounded by boulders that appear to have been driven down from the mountain over time. The swimming area is thought to be 27 meters wide and may hold up to 80 people at once. Nonetheless, because to its isolation, it's uncommon to see the falls swarming with people, making it a perfect destination for escape.
Aguila Viewpoint
Hike up Aguila Viewpoint for a spectacular perspective of the island. Agila Hill, accessible through more than 330 concrete stairs, is best climbed early in the morning to see the sunrise, for which Culion is becoming famous. The climb to the summit is also surrounded with trees and bushes, providing some relief for your tired eyes. This attraction also includes the famed Christ the Redeemer statue standing over the white-painted stones that form a massive eagle, which is part of the Philippine Health Services emblem (now the Department of Health). Former leprosy sufferers are thought to have created the emblem to express their thanks to the agency.
Mt. Tundalara
It takes an average of 4hrs to finish this fairly difficult course. This is a popular trail for camping, hiking, and strolling, yet you may still find seclusion during calmer times of day. The route is available all year and is great to explore at any time.
Drake Peak
Take a look at this 10.8-kilometer out-and-back track in Dumaran, Palawan. It takes an average of 2 hours and 36 minutes to accomplish this course. This track is ideal for hiking, road biking, and jogging, and you won't see many other people while exploring. The route is available all year and is a great place to come at any time.
HISTORICAL PLACES
Fort Santa Isabel
The fort, which is still standing strong and proud, serves as a constant reminder to Palawan of the battles it has won and the extensive history etched into its walls. In the early years of Spanish colonialism, it was crucial in putting a stop to the frequent raids on Palawan by Moro pirates. The Spanish built Fort Santa Isabel 350 years ago, and it is still standing today. It was originally completely submerged in water, but 20 years ago the local government reclaimed the sea.
The La Immaculada Concepcion Church
Commonly known as Culion Church, was formerly a fortification for the islanders. It was erected by Augustinian missionaries who arrived in Culion in 1622 and sought out to local people to propagate Catholicism. The stronghold, perched on a hill overlooking the sea and adjacent islands, was completed in 1740, protecting the population against moro pirates. About two centuries later, in 1933, the Jesuits transformed it into what it is today: a church that awes tourists with its majestic classic style.
Culion Museum and Archives
Culion had been notorious for garnering the nicknames "Island of the Living Dead" and "Island of No Return," and its size had once made it the largest leper colony in the world. Apart for the committed healthcare professionals who were instrumental in the recovery of the lepers who were transported there for treatment during those terrible years, no one ventured to enter this location. This northern Palawan island hamlet has since come back to life after being proclaimed leprosy-free in 2006.
Fort Culion
Beside the La Immaculada Concepcion Church, which rests atop a hill overlooking the sea and adjacent islands. It was constructed in 1740 by Augustinian missionaries as a fortification against moro pirates who raided the island on a regular basis. Apart from the magnificent sea vista, there are a handful of archaic canons here that still survive as testaments to how the islanders fought back throughout the raid attempts.
EXPEDITION TOUR AND ISLAND STAY
Linapacan Expedition Tour and Island Stay
One of the Palawan island groupings that tourists haven't yet visited is Linapacan Island. Contrary to the two stated tourist sites, Linapacan, which is located approximately halfway between Coron and El Nido and is far from metropolitan life, has never undergone any significant developments. In 2013, CartagenaInfo included Linacapan, which is south of the Calamian Group of Islands, in its list of the "35 Clearest Waters in the World to Swim in Before You Die." The list also included the well-known Maldives Island. The island of Linapacan is calm and pristine.
Here are some of the expedition locations or islands in Palawan that are ideal for an adventure. While on trip, enjoy beach strolling and snorkeling.
Ditaytayan Island
Culion Island's southwestern coast. A day trip to Ditaytayan Island, which is about 1.5 hours by boat southwest of Coron Town, is an excellent day trip from the popular tourist attraction of Coron Island.
Maosonon Island
Located in Palawan's paradise world, is also known as the Mysterious Island. Maosonon, located in Linapacan, is one of the town's islands that has yet to be found by visitors. The island has a mysterious aura, which is why it was given that name. The island, like most others, has a dense green forest that visitors utilize as a backdrop for photos. Visitors can venture a hundred meters from the island's western boundary and halt in the midst of the water to snorkel. The island is well-known for its underwater coral garden, which includes both tiny and large reefs.
Takling Island
Spend some time snokeling and relaxing on the beautiful sandy beach. Looking for the most magnificent shells along the coastline of Takling Island will keep you all delighted.
Dipalian Culion Island
Dipalian Island is a private island near Culion, Palawan. Because of its beauty, seclusion, and peaceful ambience, it has been dubbed a "heaven" by some. It is an excellent area to stay for a few hours or spend the night because of its beach that juts out into the sea. The facility features restrooms, showers, and an eating table.