Puerto Princesa City: Gateway to Palawan

Introduction

Puerto Princesa City, the capital of Palawan with a population of 307,079, is more than just a stopover. Known as the “Gateway to Palawan,” the city is the starting point for journeys to the province’s world-class destinations such as El Nido and Coron. Palawan carries the title of the “Last Frontier,” home to the Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Tubbataha Reef, one of the world’s premier dive spots. Yet Puerto Princesa itself deserves recognition as the first chapter of any Palawan adventure, offering both practical conveniences and cultural depth.

The Role of Puerto Princesa as a Gateway

Most visitors to Palawan arrive through Puerto Princesa International Airport, which connects the province to major cities in the Philippines. The city is strategically located along the island’s length, making it an ideal hub for both northern destinations like El Nido and Coron, and southern towns such as Brooke’s Point and Bataraza. Buses, vans, and ferries radiate from Puerto Princesa, linking travelers to every corner of Palawan.

But Puerto Princesa is not just a point of transit. Its role as a gateway also means it is where travelers can orient themselves, adjust to the island pace, and experience Palawan’s culture before venturing further.

History and Community

Puerto Princesa was established in 1872 during the Spanish colonial period, chosen for its deep natural harbor and strategic position. Over time, it evolved into both a military and administrative hub. Today, it is known not only for governance but also for its commitment to being a clean and green city. Regular tree-planting initiatives, bay cleanups, and eco-tourism projects highlight the community’s efforts to balance growth with environmental stewardship.

The city is home to a diverse population, including Tagbanua and Cuyonon communities, migrants from across the Philippines, and a growing expatriate presence. This mix of cultures is visible in daily life, from traditional crafts to modern cafés.

Attractions Before Heading North or South

For travelers, Puerto Princesa offers experiences worth savoring before heading out to Palawan’s islands. The most famous attraction is the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, or Underground River. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features an 8.2-kilometer-long underground river that flows directly into the sea, surrounded by dramatic limestone karst landscapes. Tours by boat showcase rock formations and hidden chambers while emphasizing the need to preserve this delicate ecosystem.

Beyond the Underground River, Puerto Princesa Bay is popular for firefly-watching tours in the evenings. Honda Bay, located just outside the city, offers island-hopping trips to nearby islets with clear waters and coral reefs. Meanwhile, the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center provides education about native species such as crocodiles and endemic birds.

Food and Local Insights

Dining in Puerto Princesa highlights both seafood and local flavors. The city’s markets are filled with freshly caught fish, prawns, and crabs, which appear in dishes such as grilled squid or sinigang na isda (fish in sour broth). Cashew nuts, grown in Palawan, are also widely sold in the city.

Puerto Princesa is famous for tamilok, a woodworm found in mangroves, often served as a delicacy with vinegar. While unusual to outsiders, trying tamilok is considered a rite of passage for adventurous travelers. Beyond novelty foods, the city also offers international restaurants and cafés, reflecting its role as a cosmopolitan hub for both locals and visitors.

How to Get There & Around

Puerto Princesa is easily accessible by air, with daily flights from Manila, Cebu, and other major Philippine cities. Ferries also connect the city to Manila and Iloilo, making it an important sea gateway.

Within the city, tricycles are the most common form of transport and can be hired for both short trips and city tours. Vans and buses depart regularly from terminals for destinations across Palawan, including El Nido (approximately 5 to 6 hours by van) and Coron (via ferry from El Nido or Puerto Princesa’s sea routes).

Best Time to Visit & Weather

The best time to visit Puerto Princesa is during the dry season from November to May, when average temperatures range from 25°C to 32°C. The months of December to February are slightly cooler and ideal for outdoor activities such as island hopping or firefly watching. The rainy season, from June to October, brings heavy showers and occasional typhoons, which can disrupt boat trips and outdoor excursions.

Travelers are encouraged to book Underground River tours in advance, as daily visitor numbers are regulated to protect the site. Honda Bay island-hopping tours typically cost around ₱1,200 to ₱1,500 per person, including boat transfers and lunch.

Responsible Travel in Puerto Princesa

As a city that markets itself as clean and green, Puerto Princesa places emphasis on responsible tourism. Visitors are encouraged to reduce plastic use, dispose of waste properly, and respect the rules of protected areas like the Underground River. Choosing eco-friendly tours and supporting community-based initiatives helps sustain both livelihoods and the environment.

Conclusion

Puerto Princesa City is not merely a waypoint to El Nido or Coron; it is a destination that introduces travelers to the essence of Palawan. With its combination of cultural history, natural wonders, and environmental consciousness, the city sets the tone for the adventures that lie ahead. Whether exploring the Underground River, tasting tamilok, or simply preparing for a journey further north, Puerto Princesa ensures that every Palawan adventure begins meaningfully.