It is not without reason that Palawan is known as a natural sanctuary of the world. Enveloped in rainforests, this island province is replete with scenic mountains, majestic limestone formations, charming Palawan hotels, historic caves, pristine beaches and some outstanding diving sites. Palawan is surrounded by a coral reef wall full of a variety of colourful marine life. The islands boast some exotic flora and fauna, including the scaly ant eater and mouse deer that are found nowhere else in the world. A diver's paradise, the islands have miles of coral and rainbow reef walls bordering the coasts and coves that are teeming with marine life.
It is not without reason that Palawan is called the ‘Island of the Gods'. The spectacular sea and landscapes, particularly at El Nido, give one the impression of seeing heaven's beauty on earth. Palawan is a must-see for those who value the majesty and splendour of nature.
With a beautiful coral-fringed range of jungle-clad mountainous islands that jut out of the Sulu Sea, spectacular beaches, magical lagoons, and sparkling seas that are a treasure chest of marine life, Palawan is one of the real gems of the Philippines, and offers a lot to see and do.
Palawan's clear waters are some of the best in the world, not just for diving but also for fishing. Stretching from Mindoro Strait to the edge of Borneo, Palawan's flora and fauna is unique to the island. In fact, it has more in common with Borneo than the rest of the Philippines. Thanks to its rugged topography, small population and distance from other islands, Palawan has managed to stay pristine and is perfect for being explored on a Palawan tour.
Palawan is also home to Tubbataha Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 181 km southeast of Puerto Princesa. One of the world's best diving spots; it has been nominated as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. Home to 573 species of fish, 379 species of corals, 11 species of sharks, and 12 species of dolphins and whales, it lies right in the centre of the Coral Triangle, a major hub of marine biodiversity.
Another amazing work of nature and UNESCO World Heritage Site in Palawan is the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. Located 50 kilometres north of the city proper, the river is thought of as the world's second longest navigable underground river, encompassing a whole 8.2 kilometres in length! However, the tours allow entrance up to 5 kilometres, because any further into the river and navigation becomes difficult. When inside the marvellous cave, one is treated to fascinating stalagmite and stalactite formations that are sure to take your breath away!
Spread over 96,000 hectares, the El Nido Marine Reserve in Miniloc, El Nido, is a popular nature spot in Palawan, and has a number of resorts and Palawan hotels to accommodate its visitors. It boasts of diverse ecosystems such as limestone reefs, mangroves, coral reefs, rainforests and white sand beaches. The reserve is also home to a variety of fish like the sea cow or dugong, which is the world's rarest marine mammal, and the manta ray. Thanks to the natural scenery and variety of wildlife, the reserve is now one of the Philippines' premier tourist destinations.
From Sta. Lourdes Tagbanua, Puerto Princesa City, one can see Honda Bay. Bordering fabulous beaches and small resorts and Palawan hotels, the bay has several islets with shallow reefs. In fact, it has become the favourite water sports destination among local and foreign tourists. Many of the resorts and hotels in Palawan here offer great value for money, with excellent facilities and amenities. You can even use our Palawan map to choose your hotel in Palawan based on its location.
The presence of 323 species of wildlife earned Palawan the title ‘Haven of the Philippine Wildlife'. In the Calauit Island Wildlife Sanctuary in Busuanga, which is considered one of Palawan's most amazing sites, African animals such as elands, giraffes, gazelles and zebras co-exist with native Philippine animals like the mouse deer, Palawan bearcat and peacock (pheasant).
Another sanctuary in Rio Tuba Village, Bataraza, is Ursula Island Game Refuge and Bird Sanctuary. After a whole day's flight, birds use this island to rest and gather together two hours prior to sunset. Besides wildlife, the island province also boasts extraordinary scenic wonders. Taking a tour in Palawan to visit these wildlife havens is a real highlight of a trip to Palawan.
Thanks to the world-class diving, snorkelling and jungle trekking facilities, Palawan is popular not just among nature lovers but also adventure sports enthusiasts. The Bacuit Archipelago's spectacular seascapes, Coron island's magical lakes and the wrecks around Coron town rank high on every tourist's list.
There is so much to see, explore, and experience throughout the island of Palawan that one week would not be enough. All the beaches, islands, and reefs deserve a visit, especially in the areas of Busuanga and northern Palawan. One would need a lifetime to discover all the islands, beaches and reefs in Palawan.
Besides taking Palawan tours and enjoying the scenic beauty and wildlife, local and foreign tourists also join Palawan's local residents in celebrating various feasts, festivals and Palawan events. There are three events that are most popular - Pista ng Dalampasigan, Baragatan festival and Ugyunan, all of which pay tribute to the colourful culture, rich history and traditions of Palawan.
For instance, the Pista ng Dalampasigan festival celebrates the effort of the local residents and government in restoring the beautiful coasts and mangrove forests. All these events in Palawan feature live entertainment, colourful parades and various other communal activities.
Though not exactly a shopper's paradise, Palawan is a storehouse of wood carvings, handicrafts and creative gifts. The island province also offers a range of traditional delicacies as well as a taste of local culture. The huge influx of tourists, both local and foreign, has given a boost to Palawan's food service industry. There are plenty of fine Palawan restaurants and eateries all over the islands where people can pick between traditional and international cuisines.
There are several restaurants and eating establishments in the coastal resorts and Palawan hotels around Coron and El Nido. These places specialise in seafood and Filipino cuisine in a mixture of local and international themes and flavours. Restaurants in Palawan do great business also because of their location; many of them offer visitors spectacular panoramic views of the Sulu Sea.
The name Palawan was, most probably, given by the Chinese sometime in the 9th century. They called it PA-LAO-YU, or ‘the land of beautiful safe harbour'. Others believe the name has its origins in the Indian word ‘Palawans', which means 'territory'. The popular belief, however, is that ‘Palawan' is a corrupted version of the Spanish word ‘Para agua' because the main island's shape is similar to that of a closed umbrella.
Palawan is also home to several indigenous ethno-linguistic groups that live in remote villages in the mountains and coastal areas. These are the Bataks, the Tagbanua, Palaw'an and Tau't Bato.
Palawan is one of the last unexplored islands in the Pacific region. It is also the place where the 1997 James Bond thriller Tomorrow Never Dies was shot. A place where paradise remains preserved, every corner has a story to tell and a charm all its own, Palawan awaits you!! Choose from our wide selection of Palawan hotels and tours in Palawan and let us help you plan your perfect Palawan holiday!
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