Palawan on a Budget: Tips for Affordable Travel to the Best Island in the World
Palawan, hailed as the "Best Island in the World" twice in a row, has become one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines. But despite its reputation as a high-class destination, budget travel in Palawan is possible with the right tips and tricks. Here are some ways to experience Palawan without breaking the bank.
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Contrary to popular belief, Palawan can be a budget-friendly destination without sacrificing the quality of your travel experience. As the “Best Island in the World” twice in a row, Palawan has earned its spot as a premier tourist destination in the Philippines with its breathtaking natural wonders. Don’t let the misconception of it being a costly destination hold you back from exploring its beauty. Follow these tips for budget travel to Palawan and enjoy your dream vacation without spending a fortune.
Budget Accommodation
Discover affordable accommodation options in Palawan without sacrificing comfort and convenience. While luxury beach resorts abound in exclusive locations, there are plenty of guesthouses, inns, and pension houses throughout the island, particularly in Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron. You can also find fully equipped campsites in secluded beaches or set up your own tent for free. Room rates usually range from 300 to 1,000 pesos depending on the type of room and amenities.
Check out our list of budget-friendly accommodations that are definitely worth visiting.
Modessa Island is a budget-friendly island accommodation located in Roxas, Palawan. The island offers rustic and simple yet comfortable rooms that come with basic amenities such as fan, mosquito net, and shared bathrooms. Guests can enjoy the crystal clear waters of the island’s beach and go snorkeling, kayaking or simply relax in the hammocks. The island also offers activities such as snorkeling and diving. Modessa Island is a perfect choice for budget-conscious travelers who want to experience Palawan’s natural beauty.
Isla – The Island Experience is a budget island accommodation located in the tranquil Darocotan Island, off the coast of Palawan. It offers a unique experience of staying in eco-friendly bamboo huts and indulging in a variety of outdoor activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, island hopping, and beach volleyball. The island is surrounded by crystal clear waters, coral reefs, and white sandy beaches, perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature. The accommodation also features a restaurant that serves locally sourced seafood and other Filipino dishes, adding to the overall island experience.
Mad Monkey Hostel Nacpan Beach is a popular budget-friendly accommodation option located in the tranquil Nacpan Beach area in El Nido, Palawan. The hostel offers comfortable dormitory-style rooms with air conditioning and shared bathrooms. They also have private rooms available for those who want more privacy. Mad Monkey Hostel Nacpan Beach has a fun and laid-back atmosphere, with a spacious outdoor area where guests can socialize and relax. They also have a bar and restaurant on-site that serves delicious local and international cuisine.
Budget Transportation in Palawan
When visiting Palawan, it’s important to consider your transportation options as some places can be quite far. Here are some affordable modes of transportation to get you around:
Tricycles are the most common form of public transportation in Palawan. They consist of a motorcycle attached to a sidecar with multiple seating and a covered roof. In Puerto Princesa, tricycles often operate as shared taxis, with fares ranging from Php 50 to Php 300, depending on the distance.
Jeepneys and multicabs are the cheapest transportation options in Puerto Princesa for medium and long-distance rides. They have assigned routes written on the front or sides of the vehicle to avoid confusion. Fares start at Php 16 and may reach up to Php 25 depending on the distance.
Long-distance buses and shuttle vans are the most convenient and inexpensive way to travel from Puerto Princesa to El Nido. They cover all destinations in Palawan from south to north and have frequent daily departures. They depart from the Terminal in Puerto Princesa New Market, with shuttle van fares being more expensive than buses.
Here are some additional tips to consider when traveling to Palawan:
- Bring enough cash with you, especially if you plan on visiting the rural areas of Palawan where ATM machines and banks may not be easily accessible.
- Eat at local eateries and street food vendors to save money on food.
- Use public transportation like jeepneys and tricycles to get around instead of hiring a private vehicle.
- Travel during the off-season to take advantage of lower rates and fewer crowds.
- Visit free or low-cost attractions like beaches, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
- Book tours and activities directly from the local operators instead of Viator
