Palawan - a tale of the lost islands. Palawan or Boracay? Which Philippine island should you choose for your holiday? Palawan Island Philippines how to get there

The second is located in the village of El Nido, which is the most beautiful place on the island.

Foreign tourists can reach the archipelago by landing at one of the Philippine International Airports located in the capital city, Kalibo on Boracay or Iloilo on Panay.

• The Ro Ro carrier connects the Malaysian port with the southern part of the island (Bataraza). The ferry distance is only 190 km, the journey takes 5 hours.

In addition to ferries by sea, you can also get to Palawan by high-speed or regular boat; this can be done, for example, from the island of Mindoro (San Jose), from where you can get to Coron (Busuanga) for 1,200 pesos and 6 hours. And already in Coron you can take a boat to El Nido (1280 pesos and 7 hours) or a speedboat (1760 pesos and 3.5 hours).

Transport in Palawan

To get around Palawan, you can take buses or minibuses, tricycles and jeepneys.

As a rule, traffic on the island comes to life as early as 6 am, but you won’t find an exact schedule of routes for this or that type of transport here. Departure occurs as the cabin fills up.

Buses and minivans depart from Puerto Princesa to the south several times throughout the day. A jeepney ride costs 150 pesos per passenger.

As for the tricycle, you can make a separate trip on it to your destination, the price for a short route is 30 pesos. Or you can rent a similar vehicle, then the tariff will be hourly, at the rate of 100 pesos for every 60 minutes.

Rent a car or bike

As for a motorcycle or scooter, it is better to choose models with wide wheels; the ride will be more comfortable. The cost depends on the chosen model and the duration of the trip.

For example, a 24-hour rental of a Yamaha Mio Aerox motorcycle will cost from $18.

Renting a car will, of course, cost more. At the same time, you can rent a car for personal use, that is, drive it yourself or resort to the services of a driver.

The cost of a small car starts from $28 per day, and for a car with larger capacity and power you will have to pay from $40. Driver services are paid additionally, usually 1000 pesos per day.

Where to live in Palawan: areas

The choice of accommodation options on the island is quite wide, as is the range of prices. For example, staying in a 3-star hotel room in El Nido will cost about $50, while the price per night at the 4-star Blue Palawan Beach Club tends to be $100.

There are also budget options on the island, where you will have to pay only $10 for a room of 8 sq.m. Example - Alexzus Backpackers Travel Lodge 15 minutes from the beach in El Nido.

When choosing an accommodation option, you should know the features of the areas of the island of Palawan:

Puerto Princesa

The city rightfully bears the title of one of the most beautiful in the Philippines. It is famous for its attractions: the underground river of the same name, a cathedral with a 200-year history, as well as park complexes - Mendoza Park and Princess Eulalia Park.

The surroundings of the administrative center are also interesting. On the one hand, there is an amazingly beautiful bay, this is an excellent place for evening promenades. On the other side there is a national park and a wooded part. A walk through the forest is an opportunity to see picturesque waterfalls, as well as take pictures of the city and bay from above by climbing a low mountain.

El Nido

One of the most picturesque places on earth and the most remarkable area of ​​Palawan. Here in Bakuit Bay there are many islands scattered, it is possible to get into such coves and bays where you get the full feeling that the tourist is the first person to set foot on the shore.

El Nido coast from the air:

El Nido is separated from the administrative center by 260 km; the town is located in the northern part of the island and is quite compact, its width is only 300 m.

It is interesting that the tiny village, which El Nido has long been, came to the attention of tourists not so long ago, in 1979. It was then that a ship sank off the local shores and scuba divers who arrived at the wreck site discovered the unique beauty of the surrounding area.

The first diving site was built here in 1983.

Coron

This is the province of Palawan, which includes the island of the same name, part of the island of Busuanga, as well as another 50 tiny islands in the area.

The city's infrastructure is characterized by poor development of the banking sector and terminal network, but a good selection of restaurants and cafes.

Coron is on one side a national park and on the other a popular tourist destination. Ordinary tourists and divers are attracted by the very beautiful beaches, clear sea, and salt lakes surrounded by rocks. Diving enthusiasts will certainly appreciate the sunken ships and underwater grottoes.

It is worth knowing that Corona has some of the highest prices, and cash payments are predominantly accepted.

Napsan

The territory is located only 50 km to the west from the administrative center. However, here you can feel a complete separation from civilization: in Napsan there is no Internet and in some places simple telephone connections, electricity supply for only 3 hours a day (from 19 to 22 hours), an almost complete absence of asphalt roads and a lot of corners full of secrets and interesting to the traveler.

Port Barton

The picturesque town, located 145 km from the administrative center of the island, should be of interest primarily to those who want to relax on a budget and in relative privacy.

There is no great service here, buses run much less often than, for example, in El Nido. However, the plus is the feeling of the pristine beauty of the island, untouched by the tourist flow.

Sabang

This is a small town with the sea on one side and a mountain range on the other. The main street runs through the entire village and leads directly to the port, from where the ships depart. means to the local underwater river.

There are no power grids here. Each house has its own generator, so electricity is supplied literally for 3-4 hours in the evening.

The city is attractive with two cozy beaches located to the right of the pier. The first is hotels and bungalows, the second is wilder and less crowded.

There are cafeterias on the beaches, there is everything you need for a comfortable stay.

San Vincente

The small village is located almost equidistant from Puerto Princesa and El Nido, and is attractive for its untouched nature. Every year, however, the tourist flow here increases, the authorities are even laying a concrete road.

It is worth knowing that there are no banks, terminals, ATMs, just as there are no expensive hotels, medical institutions and similar amenities.

What to see in Palawan

In addition to the fact that each area described above in itself deserves the attention of a tourist, I would like to note the main attractions of the island, including:

Puerto Princesa Underground River

This river is the longest among the underground ones, its length is 8 km, and you can walk along it admiring a series of unique natural cave labyrinths.

It is worth knowing that the route along the river for tourists is only 1 km, and the journey lasts 45 minutes.

To enter the park, you must obtain a permit, paying about 4 euros for it; an additional environmental fee is paid - up to 1 euro.

You can enter the national park daily from 8:30 to 15:30. However, entry restrictions may apply due to inclement weather conditions.

It is more convenient to see the underground river as part of a tourist group. The cost per person will be about 22 euros, there are no additional expenses, this amount will include a transfer to the park itself and back, which means the problem of finding public transport is eliminated.

Miniloc Island

Located in Bakit Bay, tourists are attracted by two bays - the Big and Small Lagoons.

You can get to the island by speedboat, but access to the lagoons is much more exotic. You can get to Bolshaya on small boats through a narrow passage. And access to the Small Lagoon is through a small hole in the rock.

Cayoya Island or Exotic Island

This place is popular among the Filipinos themselves, the residents of Palawan. The island is ideal for families with children. The coastline, in addition to snow-white sand and clear water, is distinguished by a gentle slope into the sea.

There are gazebos for safe shelter from the scorching sun.

Sand Bar Island

The island, completely covered with sand, is interesting because at high tide it is completely submerged under water. However, it is the time of high tide that is the best for exploring this attraction and comfortable swimming.

Important! Hiking around the island must be done in special shoes, as there is a high risk of bumping into corals or slipping on algae.

You can get to Sand Bar by using the boat services of the Princesa Garden Hotel, or by wading from Rizal Av. The path is not long - a little more than half a kilometer.

Matinloc Island

Both diving enthusiasts and connoisseurs of a relaxing beach holiday flock here.

The first are attracted here by the diverse coral gardens, where various species of marine life have found refuge.

For a lazy holiday, it is better to choose the east coast, where the most beautiful sandy beaches are.

You can usually get here as part of a tour.

Waterfalls and caves

1. Bigahoo Falls, accessible by boat from Port Barton in 20 minutes;
2. Mangapin Waterfall - located 100 km from the administrative center, the road is unpaved, suitable for those who like hiking or extreme bike riding. Important! During the dry season, the reservoir dries up.
3. El Nido Falls - in addition to the opportunity to take a dip in the hot spring, the waterfall serves as a wonderful contrast with its cool spray. It is more convenient to get there by renting a bike, which will cost 500 pesos. The journey will take approximately 40-50 minutes.
4. Cave Il - located 45 minutes from El Nido, is interesting because the remains of people, animals and utensils were found in it, proving that a settlement existed here more than 12 thousand years ago.
5. Estrella Falls. You can get to the waterfall as part of a tour or on your own. The road is of very decent quality. There are equipped parking lots, entrance to the waterfall is paid, 20 pesos. There are gazebos and a barbecue area on site. Important! You must bring your own food for a picnic. And you should be prepared for the fact that some of them will be begged from tourists by very annoying monkeys and squirrels living near the reservoir.
6. Salakot waterfall. To the reservoir located not so far from Puerto Princesa (46 km), the path is very difficult, the reason is that most of the road is difficult-to-pass gravel. That is why there are few tourists here and there is a complete lack of infrastructure.
7. Lion Cave. The natural attraction received this name because at the entrance there is a stalagmite, the shape of which resembles a sitting lion. The road from Sabang takes about 30 minutes, and the journey through the cave itself takes no more than an hour.

What else to see in Palawan

1. The Santa Isabel fortress, located in the town of Tai-Tai, has a 300-year history, while the structure is in almost its original form and serves as a venue for various services. Open to the public from Monday to Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., entrance fee: adults - 500 pesos, children under 12 years old - 250 pesos.
2. The Chinese Buddha Temple near Honda Bay is an opportunity to see the decoration of the temple and visit the many islets in the bay itself.
3. The crocodile farm in Puerto Princesa is located on the territory of the center for the protection and conservation of wild reptiles; in addition to aquariums, there is a museum here. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket office at the entrance; tours of the farm take place as part of a group; tours begin every half hour.
4. The Balsahan natural pool is a crystal clear river with equipped places for recreation and parking, located on the territory of the island’s correctional colony, a place where prisoners live quite freely, making souvenirs. On weekends there are many vacationers from local residents.
5. Bay Walk or the city promenade of Puerto Princesa - restaurants, all kinds of shows, celebrations and festivals - that's what makes this place popular when the evening comes. During the day, you can visit the nearby Church of the Immaculate Conception or walk through the Plaza Cuartel park area.

Things to do in Palawan

Activities are quite popular in Palawan. After all, it was divers who originally discovered this picturesque place.

1. Snorkeling - even simple snorkeling will be an exciting journey into the world of the unique biodiversity of the local sea;
2. Watching whale sharks. You can go on an excursion to these terrifying sea creatures from Puerto Princesa, and you can not only see them, but also swim with them. There is no need to be afraid, since the 15-ton shark feeds exclusively on plankton and small fish. The excursion is organized from mid-spring to mid-autumn.
3. Kiting - from the end of autumn to the end of winter you can try your hand at kiting, the best place for this is located near the airport, there are inexpensive rooms, equipment rental is available, the instructors speak English.
4. Diving. The best places are the reefs of Tubbataha, Apo, Busuanga. The first of them is under the protection of Unesco, and Apo claims to be included in this list.

Beaches of Palawan

• Yoga - a private beach, open to tourists, located in El Nido, distinctive features - silence and uncrowded, an excellent place for meditation.
• Long Beach is located in San Vicente, its length is 14 km. The coastline is divided in two by a large rock, one of the parts is 8 km of snow-white sand. There are small retail outlets here, selling mainly drinks.
• Marimemeg. Located 5 km from the town of El Nido, you can get there by tricycle for 150 pesos, from the road to the coast you will have to walk about 300 meters. The beach is considered the best in El Nido. There is a bar here, freshly squeezed juices are served, and you can rent a kayak.
• Korong Beach - this 2-kilometer shallow water is unlikely to interest lovers of swimming, but children will be delighted to sit in the warm water and dig in the snow-white sand. It is very beautiful here at sunset.
• Papaya is a private beach open to tourists, accessible by boat from Corong. It is worth considering that at the beginning of autumn the coastal strip may be covered with algae.
• Seven Commandos is an ideal coastline, comfortable for swimming at low tides. Tourists are brought here in organized groups as part of a tour of El Nido Bay. You can get here on your own by renting a kayak on Corong.
• Ipil – wild beach 2 km. from El Nido, you can get here by kayak or rowing boat. There is no infrastructure.
• White Beach, the name comes from the sand, which is of a very light shade. You can get to the beach in about an hour from the center of Puerto Princesa; you should take food and drinks with you; you won’t be able to buy it in the area.
• Pristine Beach is a paid beach with an equipped picnic area, gazebos, a very popular place among islanders, so you shouldn’t go here on weekends when it’s very crowded. The price of a visit depends on age and time of day. So in the evening a ticket will cost 40 pesos, versus 25 during the day.

The beaches described are not all that are on the territory of Palawan. It is worth knowing that you need to be careful when going to an unknown shore, as there are beaches that carry great danger, for example, Lapus - a private beach between Corong and Papaya, which is guarded by large dogs, ready to attack anyone who tries to land on the shore. Other coasts, like B.M., may disappoint with the lack of cleanliness, and this is with an entrance fee.

What else you should know about holidays in Palawan

Money and currency exchange

There will be a chance to withdraw money from a bank card only in Puerto Princesa; even in El Nido, popular among tourists, it is better to have cash with you, since there is only one ATM here, and it gives out 10,00 pesos per withdrawal.

There is an ATM at the airport of the administrative center, as well as in Roxas.

You can exchange currency at banks and exchange offices in the Robinson shopping center, as well as at the airport. However, in the latter case, the rate is the least favorable.

The main products from which local dishes are prepared are:

• Meat, most often pork, which is used for barbecuing, meat sticks, and casseroles. The price of one meat stick in the market is 15 pesos.
• Chicken is popular among locals; you can buy grilled chicken in supermarkets.
• Vegetables - most often they are brought from China, what is grown on the island is sweet potatoes, Asian cabbage, cucumbers.
• The fruit, the most common of which is mango, costs about 90 pesos per kilo.

If you want to try a local dessert, then you should pay attention to tupig, it contains rice, coconut milk, coconut flakes, and sugar. The boiled ingredients are formed into a sausage and decorated with a palm leaf; the taste is reminiscent of cheesecakes.

Palawan is a unique, picturesque place, an island whose pristine beauty is mesmerizing. Getting here is not easy, but the shores and underwater world of Palawan are worth seeing.

Palawan Island is the westernmost island of the Philippine archipelago. Some of its features include the following: Palawan- the third largest island of the Philippines and the largest province of the state. In addition, it is one of the safest islands in the region. There are no active volcanoes, earthquakes are very rare, and the famous Philippine typhoons almost always bypass it.

Palawan Island- this is, in fact, a huge piece of pristine tropical territory, not yet spoiled or destroyed by the tourism industry.

Those who expect from their holiday the most beautiful landscapes a la Bounty, peace and quiet on the shores of the cleanest and warm sea, beautiful deserted beaches - can safely go to Palawan.

Belonging to the category of just such tourists, we headed to this island. And let’s admit right away – we never regretted it later. Moreover, Palawan enchanted us so much that it became one of those places to which we really and truly want to return again. Yves Cousteau was probably right when he expressed the opinion that the seascapes of Palawan are some of the most beautiful in the world.

It is believed that the main tourist attraction of the island is its natural reserve El Nido, in turn, consisting of 39 islands, which are almost all uninhabited.

I think everyone has heard and seen, at least in a photo, the world-famous Ho Long in Vietnam. Isn't it beautiful? So, El Nido no worse!

And most likely even more beautiful.

But besides this popular and crowded place, we also recommend visiting a village called and commit a walk around its islands. We are sure that many will like it. Generally in Port Barton Worth a look for those who are looking for a quiet, relaxing holiday and intend to live in Palawan longer. This is exactly the place where you want to stay for a long time.

Snorkeling in Palawan

Don't say what it is best snorkeling which we saw in life, but we have to give it its due - it’s very good here. Of course, these are not the reefs of the Maldives, not crystal waters Menjanganana Bali and not even Adang in Thailand, but still very beautiful! We especially enjoyed snorkeling in the Port Barton area, where, among other things, we finally managed to meet a huge sea turtle, which we were not able to see .

Beaches of Palawan

Many, having arrived to El Nido from Puerto Princesa, remain admired by the beauty of the marine park, but at the same time form the erroneous opinion that the island of Palawan and a beach holiday are poorly compatible things. We are convinced - Palawan Island - great place for a beach holiday! But with one caveat - for relaxing on Bounty-style beaches, and almost to the maximum unencumbered by the “benefits” of civilization and mass tourism.

Those. for lovers of serenity who are not fixated on the fact that the quality of relaxation depends on the “star rating” of the hotel, the buffet and the availability of a free sun lounger on the beach. A striking example of such a Bounty beach is Palawan is Nacpan Beach. And about everyone, read the post Beaches of El Nido.

But there are also many other beaches, both large and small, both on the island itself and on the many small islets nearby.

By the way, some of them can be reached independently by kayak from El Nido.

Palawan Hotels

Hotels in Palawan, for the most part, concentrated in Puerto Princesa And El Nido, which is quite natural, given that the bulk of tourists arrive from Manila precisely to and through.

But there are also hotels on small islands, in the island-hotel format, i.e. like in the Maldives. The price may not be inferior to the Maldivian, however, beauty and, apparently, comfort, too.

To the south the cuisine improves. In Roxas, Port Barton, the menu in local cafes is much more interesting. Closer to Puerto Princesa, a roadside cafe will easily offer you a portion of the freshest crabs for 40 pesos. Well, Puerto Princesa itself is a paradise for gourmets and gluttons, especially for seafood lovers. Well, where else will they offer you moray eel for 120 pesos per 1 kg or lobsters for 200 pesos per 1 kg?

Have a nice adventure!

updated: September 14, 2018 by: Sergei

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Island Palawan located on the coast of the South China Sea near the border with. It is a fairly long piece of land with a length of over 420 km. It is covered with mangrove forests, tropical jungles and mountain peaks. The island is inhabited by more than 85 nationalities, forming the most multinational region on Philippines. Palawan can be called a kind of archipelago within an archipelago. The main part of the land is surrounded by dozens of small islands, forming picturesque lagoons and bays of a pronounced turquoise color. From a bird's eye view, the island appears to be an endless tropical paradise of countless mountains, hills and hills covered with dense jungle. The resort is of particular interest to eco-tourists, who have the opportunity to have a wonderful rest in the cozy hotels of the exotic reserve El Nido in the north of Palawan.

Divers also get the best impressions from staying in these fabulous places, plunging into the emerald sea waters that wash the island from all sides. Several dozen magnificent beaches in the most secluded areas are the reason to fulfill the dreams of many romantic couples and people who want to spend time alone with nature. Numerous excursion routes add significant variety to a beach holiday, making it even more eventful and exciting. As for the cost, Palawan is considered one of the most expensive resorts in the Philippines, which, however, is quite reasonable.

The most densely populated area of ​​the island is its administrative center - Puerto Princesa. First of all, it is famous for its crocodile farms and underground river, which has the status of a National Park and is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The abundance of limestone karst rock formations contributes to the appearance of natural cavities into which water flows. The reserve is located 50 km from the city limits between Saint Paul Bay and the Babuyan River, in the north of the island. The entrance to the cave with an underground river begins in a turquoise-colored water lagoon, near the city of Sabang. The river flows for 8 km towards the South China Sea through many grottoes replete with massive stalactites and stalagmites. The land part of the park, located above the river, is covered with mountain forests and mangroves. About 800 plants characteristic of tropical Asia grow here. In addition, the reserve is home to almost two dozen reptiles, 30 species of mammals and about 70% of the birds represented throughout the archipelago. Among the animals, such unique individuals as the bearded pig, long-tailed macaque and Palawan binturong are common. A visit to the Underground River National Park is a must-see itinerary for guests visiting the island of Palawan. The reserve is extremely rich in colorful sights and is a wonderful example of wild nature, carefully preserved by man.

The city of Puerto Princesa is named after Princess Eulalia de Bourbon, who was the daughter of the Spanish Queen Isabella II, who founded the island's capital in 1872. During the time of Spanish colonialism, Puerto Princesa developed rapidly, becoming the main industrial, commercial and economic center of the country. Already at the end of the 19th century, the city was recognized as the most beautiful in the Philippines. Over time, numerous refugees from Southeast Asia and other regions of the Philippine archipelago found shelter here, gradually turning Puerto Princesa into an international city with beautiful architecture and high social status. Today, it is home to about 160,000 people of different cultures and nationalities, speaking different languages, among which English, Tagalog and Visayan are widely spoken. Among the city's attractions, it is worth noting the picturesque Princess Eulalia Park, founded in 1872, Palawan Museum dedicated to the history of the island, Mendoza Park, erected in honor of the resistance fighters who fought against the Japanese occupiers during the Second World War and Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception on Rizal Avenue.

The best diving spot on the island is considered Honda Bay. There you can see a whole scattering of exotic fish and magnificent landscapes of coral gardens. The most remote area for scuba divers, Tubbataha Reef is located 180 km from the resort, but is nevertheless very popular among divers. Along the island coast lie gorgeous sandy beaches, some of which have modern luxury hotels, restaurants and nightclubs, and some are intended for a secluded holiday away from civilization. Thrill seekers can visit the cave complex Tabon, where fossil remains of humanoid creatures dating back to approximately the 24th millennium BC were once found. At the moment, out of more than 200 caves, only 7 are open to the public. Lovers of sea walks have the opportunity to rent a boat, canoe or speedboat and go on an unforgettable journey along the coast.

The best time to visit Palawan is from January to April, when the bright sun shines over the island and there is not a single cloud in the sky. From May to December, the region experiences heavy rainfall and strong winds. At the same time, the average air temperature does not change much throughout the year and is +27 degrees, but a significant part of tourists come here on vacation both in summer and winter, preferring to focus on the weather forecast in the near future.

Holidays on the island of Palawan are attractive in many ways. These include snow-white beaches of fine sand, a rich underwater world, the azure waters of the South China Sea, colorful natural landscapes, and a developed tourist infrastructure. As one of the best eco-resorts in Asia, Palawan annually attracts tens of thousands of tourists from all over the world, thereby fully justifying its reputation.

The Philippines can delight tourists with a warm tropical climate and good infrastructure. But you need to pay attention to the rainy season, which on the islands usually lasts from May to October and it is better not to travel to the country at this time. Tropical showers are possible even in the dry season, but they do not last long and are quickly replaced by the sun. The best time to holiday in the Philippines is from December to March. In both Boracay and Palawan, the tourist season lasts until April - mid-May.

In terms of tourism popularity, Boracay is far superior to Palawan. This island is considered the most popular tourist destination in the country and has beautiful beaches, some of which are included in the list of the best beaches in the world. Tourists are found here at any time of the year, regardless of whether it is the dry season or the rainy season. It is on this island that the best restaurants, diving centers and surf schools are concentrated (in some places on the island the waves are quite high). The beaches have everything you need for a comfortable stay, from toilets, changing rooms, sun loungers to all kinds of bars and entertainment.

Palawan offers a slightly different holiday experience. Mostly those tourists come here who want to relax in peace and quiet, without large crowds of vacationers. The island also boasts a unique and inimitable nature, where there are wild, deserted beaches and almost impenetrable tropical forests. The island will appeal to diving enthusiasts, as there are places here that you will not find in any other part of the country. Experienced divers come here for several days, since it is impossible to explore all the beauties of the local underwater world, including numerous sunken ships, in a short time. The resort is also famous for the fact that the largest pearl in the world was found here and many come here to try their luck.

When going to Boracay, you need to be prepared for the fact that serious problems may arise in finding budget accommodation, especially during the high season. On the first and second lines there are mainly expensive hotels, and further on you can find some simpler and therefore cheaper options.

In Palawan, there is a much greater choice of budget accommodation, including in close proximity to the beach. For around 12-15 dollars per day you can find small rooms with a bathroom, air conditioning, several beds and good furniture (in Boracay, for that kind of money, the most you can rent is a room with a ceiling fan in a guesthouse). For 20-25 dollars you can find accommodation options with breakfast. If you go on vacation with friends, you can rent a small villa with all the amenities at an affordable price.

Boracay is famous for its large selection of food, not only Filipino, but also other cuisines from around the world. The island has a sufficient number of not only expensive restaurants, but also budget canteens, where you will only have to pay a few dollars for lunch. There are also establishments here where the visitor pays a fixed amount and can eat an unlimited amount of food. There is a large selection of goods in local stores, and their prices depend on their location relative to tourist areas.

In terms of price, Palawan is not very different from Boracay, prices in shops, cafes and restaurants are approximately the same, but the island will be a real find for lovers of fish and seafood. Their diversity is simply amazing: shrimp, lobsters, crabs, different types of fish. Such dishes are distinguished by the fact that they are prepared only from fresh and not from frozen products.

As a result, we can say that each island is interesting and unique in its own way. To make a choice, you should start from your preferences: if you are interested in parties, a lot of people, then you should definitely go to Boracay, and if you prefer a more relaxing holiday, then Palawan has the advantage here.

Palawan Island, Philippines

Palawan (Palawan) is the westernmost of the large islands and Philippines and the center of the province of the same name.

In 2007, the American magazine National Geographic Traveler named Palawan the best destination for a holiday on the islands in Eastern And Southeast Asia and 13th best island in the world. Palawan was also named among the must-visit destinations in 2011.

Location of Palawan Island

Palawan located in the west Philippine archipelago, between o. Kalimantan (Borneo), belonging to Indonesia and Malaysia in the southwest and the Philippine islands. Mindoro in the northeast. From Borneo separated by a strait Balabak. south of Palawan - South China Sea, from the middle part Philippine Islands Palawan will separate Sulu Sea.

Palawan usually referred to as the northern part Philippine archipelago, island group Luzon. It is included in the region Mimaropa (Mimaropa) or (Region IV-B). In 2005 there was an attempt to translate Palawan to the region Western Visayas(VI) and, accordingly, to the island group Visayas, but the decision seems to have never been implemented, so the regional affiliation Palawan- the question is open.

With surrounding islands Palawan makes up the province of the same name, the largest in area among all in Philippines. Province Palawan make up about 1,780 islands from Mindoro to Borneo. Coral reefs with a total area of ​​11,000 km 2 are hidden under the water column. Geologically the same Palawan is an extension of the island Kalimantan (Borneo), owned Indonesia And Malaysia. Once upon a time Palawan amounted to Kalimantan one whole. And now the flora and fauna of these islands have many similar species, but from other islands Philippine archipelago Palawan differs significantly in biological diversity.

Length Palawan- 425 km with a width from 8.5 to 40 km. Area - 14896 km 2

Features of Palawan Island

Capital Palawan- the only highly urbanized settlement on the island, Puerto Princesa (Puerto Princesa), named after the Spanish princess Eulalia.

About the origin of the name of the island Palawan there is no reliable information. The word is believed to have Chinese roots, "pao-lao-yu" meaning "country with convenient harbors." The point is that to be the first to master Palawan became Chinese traders (X-XI centuries). And until 1903 Palawan was called Paragua (Paragua).

Palawan recognized as a natural reserve of world significance: majestic cliffs, impenetrable jungle, mangrove forests, primeval caves, a rich underwater world, underground rivers, wild beaches, exotic flora and fauna: scaly anteater and mouse deer.

One of the longest underground rivers in the world flows along the western coast of the archipelago, and Ursula Island designated as a fish and wildlife sanctuary. It is home to rare, critically endangered sea turtles and the sea cow, the rarest mammal in the world. There is a crocodile farm in the central part of the island. Island Palawan created for those who want to retire on the shore of a cozy bay among dense exotic vegetation. Ideal for a relaxing family holiday, as well as for those who want to enjoy water sports.

All the natural wonders of the province Palawan concentrated in El Nido (El Nido) - one of the most beautiful places on Philippines. Islands Anilao, Puerto Galera, Balicasag- ideal places for diving, snorkeling and underwater photography. Pagsanian- famous place Pagsanyan Falls and river rapids.

Resort El Nido(Spanish: nest, hiding place, shelter) - one of the most picturesque island resorts, part of the archipelago of the same name, a marine reserve El Nido. Majestic limestone cliffs, amazingly beautiful coral gardens where bright tropical fish frolic, lush greenery of the virgin jungle. In a marine reserve El Nido in the northern part Palawan All the geological and underwater natural wonders of the island are concentrated.

Limestone cliffs have protected the bays and lagoons for about 250 million years. The diversity of local fish and coral species is incalculable. El Nido- These are many small islands, most of them uninhabited. Each is easily accessible by boat - so you can spend the day on your own private beach, sunbathing, diving and swimming in the lagoons. In the woods El Nido More than a hundred species of birds live, most of which can only be seen on Palawan.

On Palawan in 1934, the world's largest pearl (the pearl of Lao Tzu) with a diameter of 24 cm and a weight of 6.4 kg (!) was found.

On Palawan one of the films was filmed about James Bond- “Tomorrow never dies” ( Tomorrow Never Dies).

Diving in Palawan Island

Palawan- a real paradise for diving. A huge number of sunken ships (from the Second World War) in the area of ​​the islands Coron, Busuanga etc. Reefs Tubbataha And Basterra in the Sulu Sea are included in the list of the world's best dive sites.