Palawan is a slice of paradise that offers enough adventure and relaxation to satisfy both thrill-seekers and couch potatoes. Planning a three-day getaway? Hold onto your flip-flops because this itinerary mixes island hopping, history, and wildlife encounters into a delightful cocktail of experiences. Ready to dive in?
Day 1: Island hopping in El Nido
Welcome to the beautiful chaos of El Nido. You’ll want to wake up early because the lagoons and beaches are calling your name. Here's how to spend your first day:
- 7:00 AM: Grab breakfast at Artcafe for some delicious pancakes and coffee. Fuel up for a day of fun.
- 8:00 AM: Join an island-hopping tour (look for Tour A, it’s a crowd favorite). Get ready to hop on a bangka (a traditional boat) for a day filled with sun, sand, and snorkeling.
- 9:30 AM: First stop: Small Lagoon. Snorkel and swim in crystal-clear waters. Try not to bump into fellow tourists; that could get awkward.
- 11:00 AM: Head to Big Lagoon. This is Instagram heaven. Snap some pics and pretend you’re the star of a travel documentary.
- 12:30 PM: Lunch time! Your tour should include a picnic lunch on a beach. Enjoy grilled fish and rice while soaking up the view.
- 2:00 PM: After lunch, relax on Shimizu Island. Swim, sunbathe, or engage in deep philosophical discussions with your travel buddy about why you didn’t bring sunscreen.
- 4:00 PM: Last stop: Secret Lagoon. Climb through a rock opening and feel like you’ve discovered a hidden treasure. Trust us; it’s worth the climb.
- 5:30 PM: Return to El Nido town. Grab a refreshing drink at Happiness Beach Bar and watch the sunset.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner at Trattoria Altro Verso. Enjoy a mix of Italian and Filipino cuisine. Yes, you can have pasta with a view of the beach.
Day 2: Exploring Puerto Princesa
Time to trade the beaches for some culture. Puerto Princesa is full of history and local charm. Here’s your plan for the day:
- 7:30 AM: Breakfast at your hotel or a local café. Coffee is your best friend right now.
- 9:00 AM: Visit the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. About an hour’s drive from the city, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-see.
- 10:30 AM: Take a guided boat tour through the underground river. Keep an eye out for bats; they’re the real locals.
- 12:00 PM: Lunch at Kinabuch Grill and Bar. Try the local delicacy, crocodile sisig. Yes, you read that right.
- 1:30 PM: Visit the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center. Meet some crocodiles and other wildlife. Just don’t try to pet anything.
- 3:00 PM: Head to the Immaculate Conception Cathedral for a dose of local architecture. Snap a pic for your "look how cultured I am" album.
- 4:30 PM: Explore the Palawan Heritage Center. Learn about the island's rich history and culture. Perfect for impressing your friends back home.
- 6:00 PM: Dinner at Badjao Seafront Restaurant. Try the fresh seafood while enjoying a view of the bay.
Day 3: Wildlife and relaxation
For your final day, choose your adventure: some wildlife exploration or pure relaxation. Let’s break it down:
- Option 1: Calauit Safari Park
- 7:00 AM: Early breakfast, then take a van (about 2 hours) to Calauit.
- 9:00 AM: Arrive at Calauit Safari Park. Get ready to see giraffes, zebras, and more exotic animals. Remember, no selfies with the giraffes—safety first.
- 12:00 PM: Lunch at the park. Enjoy a packed meal or try any local stalls in the area.
- 1:30 PM: Continue exploring the park. Don’t forget to take tons of photos—your friends need to be jealous.
- 4:00 PM: Head back to Puerto Princesa.
- Option 2: Relaxing at a resort
- 8:00 AM: Breakfast at your resort. Enjoy the view and contemplate life decisions.
- 10:00 AM: Book a spa treatment. You deserve it after all that island hopping.
- 12:00 PM: Lunch at the resort. Order whatever sounds good; you’ve earned it.
- 2:00 PM: Spend the afternoon lounging by the pool or beach, catching up on reading or napping. Remember to hydrate.
- 5:00 PM: Enjoy a farewell dinner at KaLui Restaurant, a local favorite for its ambiance and seafood dishes.
Palawan is a whirlwind of experiences, and three days are just enough to scratch the surface. You might leave with sunburn, a full stomach, and memories that’ll last a lifetime. So, pack your bags and get ready for an adventure that will make your friends green with envy. Happy travels!
