Puerto Princesa in 3 days: Tours with optional hotel rooms

Travel to Palawan’s renowned Puerto Princesa with this thoughtfully designed 3-day tour package. Whether you’re craving the thrill of exploring the famous Underground River, the fun of island hopping Honda Bay, or just a taste of the city’s vibrant sights, this experience promises a smooth, hassle-free adventure.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, it covers three major activities—each giving a different flavor of what Puerto Princesa has to offer. Second, the package includes local guides, meals, and entrance fees, which means less planning stress for you. Third, the optional hotel accommodation allows you to unwind comfortably after busy days of exploration.

One thing to consider is that the tour only includes hotel stays within 5 miles of the airport, which might limit choices if you prefer a more remote or luxury stay. Also, the schedule is quite packed—so if you’re after relaxed, unhurried travel, this may feel a bit brisk.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience with the convenience of everything arranged beforehand. Perfect for first-timers or those on a tight schedule seeking authentic, memorable moments without the hassle of self-planning.

Good To Know

• All-Inclusive Experience: Three days of organized tours with meals, entrance fees, and transportation.
• Flexible Accommodation: Options for budget to luxury hotels, with airport transfers included.
• Ideal Timing: Arrive before noon on Day 1 and depart after 6 PM on Day 3 for maximum enjoyment.
• Guided Tours: Knowledgeable guides, including Rhys and Roman, enhance the experience.
• Hassle-Free Planning: Pickup, drop-off, and transfers make travel seamless.
• Authentic Highlights: Visit the UNESCO-listed Underground River and enjoy island hopping at Honda Bay.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Half-Day City Tour

Upon landing at Puerto Princesa Airport, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel—if you choose the accommodation option. The first afternoon includes a half-day city tour, giving you a taste of local life, historical sites, and scenic spots. Expect to see local markets, colonial architecture, and perhaps a stroll along the bay, all with light snacks provided.

This quick intro helps orient you and sets the tone for the days ahead. Tour guides like Rhys and Roman are praised for their kindness and local knowledge, making these city stops engaging and informative. If you arrive early enough, we recommend taking advantage of this half-day tour to maximize your first day.

Day 2: UNESCO World Heritage Underground River

This is the highlight of the trip for many travelers. The Underground River is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its impressive limestone karst formations and subterranean waterways. The tour is shared but small enough to feel intimate, with a licensed guide leading the way and explaining the geological marvels.

Expect a boat transfer to the entrance, a short walk to the boat, and then a gentle cruise through the dark, echoing caves—use of an audio tour device helps you catch all the details. The tour includes entrance fees and life vests, ensuring safety and comfort.

Travelers like the reviewer who appreciated the well-organized experience noted, “It was very helpful that all activities included pick-up and drop-off.” The guides’ knowledge is a standout, with guests often mentioning how their insights made the experience more meaningful.

Day 3: Honda Bay Island Hopping

Your final day is dedicated to island hopping in Honda Bay, a favorite for its clear waters, coral reefs, and relaxed vibe. You’ll visit multiple islands—each offering unique scenery and opportunities for snorkeling with provided gear.

The boat transfers are included, and snorkel gear is provided, making it easy to jump right into the water. Expect the tour to conclude around 4 PM, giving you some downtime before heading to the airport. Guests have praised the smooth organization, and reviews highlight the guides’ helpfulness, noting that “everything was perfectly arranged” and that the guides Rhys and Roman made the day enjoyable.

The tour wraps up with a transfer back to your hotel or directly to the airport if you’re departing later that evening.

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What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Convenience and Value

One of the biggest perks is the all-in-one package. Covering transportation, guides, entrance fees, and meals, it simplifies what can often be a complex puzzle of bookings. For $103 per person, you get a full, curated experience—something that’s hard to match in terms of value, especially considering the included lunches during full-day tours.

Expert Guides

Guests consistently mention the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. They’re not just there to ferry you around but to enrich your understanding of Palawan’s natural wonders. Rhys and Roman, in particular, receive praise for their professionalism and kindness, ensuring you feel comfortable and informed.

Flexible Accommodation

Options range from budget to high-end resorts, with all rooms accommodating up to three people. If you prefer your own space, booking separate rooms is straightforward. The package also includes airport transfers and daily breakfast if you opt for the hotel stay, which adds significant comfort to the trip.

Practical Scheduling

The itinerary is designed to maximize your time: arriving early allows you to fit in the city tour, and the last day’s island hopping wraps up before your evening flight. This well-timed schedule means you’ll leave feeling satisfied but not rushed.

Authentic Experiences

From exploring the Underground River to lounging on the beaches of Honda Bay, you get a genuine taste of what makes Puerto Princesa special. The inclusion of local food, guided explanations, and scenic stops offers a balanced view of the city and its surroundings.

Potential Drawbacks to Consider

While most reviews highlight the smooth organization, the tight schedule may not suit travelers seeking a very relaxed pace. The full itinerary involves early mornings and packed days, which could be tiring if you prefer slower travel.

Plus, the tour only includes hotels within 5 miles of the airport—if you desire a more remote or luxury stay, you’ll need to arrange those separately. Also, since it’s a group tour, those looking for total independence or private experiences might find this format limiting.

Transportation and Group Size

You’ll travel in an air-conditioned van during city and airport transfers, ensuring comfort even in the tropical heat. The shared tours are typically small groups, allowing for more personalized attention. The boat transfers for the Underground River and Honda Bay are included, and snorkel gear is provided, so you won’t need to rent equipment separately.

Timing and Booking Tips

To make the most of the experience, arrive before noon on Day 1 and depart after 6 PM on Day 3. Booking flights accordingly ensures you won’t miss out on any of the scheduled activities. The tour operates on a reservation basis, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering a bit of flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day Puerto Princesa tour is an excellent way to see the highlights of Palawan without the stress of planning each detail yourself. The inclusion of trusted guides, meals, and all transportation makes it especially appealing for first-timers or travelers short on time.

The carefully crafted itinerary balances adventure with comfort, giving you enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling overwhelmed. With options for hotel stays, this package also ensures your base is comfortable and conveniently located.

If you’re looking for a value-packed, well-organized, and authentic Palawan experience, this tour has a lot to offer. It’s particularly suited for those who want reliable, guided exploration with the convenience of everything taken care of.

FAQs

Is airport pickup included?
Yes, if you choose the hotel accommodation option, airport transfers are included within 5 miles of Puerto Princesa Airport.

Can I book the tour without hotel?
Yes, the tour-only package is available. Just ensure your hotel is within the specified area for pickup and drop-off.

What should I bring?
Bring cash, your passport or ID, and motion sickness prevention if needed. Avoid bringing baby strollers, alcohol, or drugs, as these aren’t allowed.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for people with mobility impairments due to the nature of some activities and transportation.

Are meals included?
Two lunches are included during full-day tours, and breakfast is available if you book the hotel option.

What’s the best time to arrive and depart?
Arrive before noon on Day 1 to maximize your schedule. Plan your departure after 6 PM on the last day to enjoy Honda Bay without feeling rushed.

How many people typically join?
The tours are shared but tend to be small groups, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak English and Tagalog, providing clear explanations throughout your trip.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In short, this Puerto Princesa 3-day tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and local insights. It’s a fantastic way to experience the best of Palawan with everything well-organized and thoughtfully planned.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby