Paradise in Palawan, The Diamond of Pacific
Famous for its 9,000 years old ancient cave dwellings, Sassi di Matera is one of the most unique ancient civilizations in the world. The historic site sits in the city of Matera, Basilicata, in southern Italy. Calcarenitic rock is literally carved into to form thousands of cave dwellings which set themselves up like a maze with pathways and steep stairs running up and down and sometimes over the roof of other homes. As one of Italy’s oldest ancient sites, Sassi di Matera is the evidence of, arguably, the first human settlement in the region. After it was named UNESCO’s World Heritage site in 1993, hotels and restaurants bloomed alongside the increased number of tourists. It is now the dream destination for leisure explorer and featured in well-known films, including The Passion of Christ, The Nativity Story, and King Davis.
Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park Kayak through the wonder of the world
Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park is located northwest of Puerto Princesa and encompasses impressive cave systems running 8.2 kilometers through Saint Paul Mountain Range to the sea. Visitors are allowed to explore the underground river on a guided kayaking tour. The 45 minutes scenic route limits to a few visitors only, and runs half of the actual river, but be sure to take flashlights since there is no fixed lighting within the caves.
Address: Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines
Tel. +63 2 523 6023
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is another UNESCO’s World Heritage on Palawan. The natural park sits in the middle of Sulu Sea, 150 kilometers southeast of Puerto Princesa. The area represents a significant habitat for biodiversity living around North and South Atolls and the Jessie Beazley Reef, including sharks, dolphins, whales, and thousands of marine species. The atolls are also an important nesting ground for different turtle species, and a spectacular dive site. From March to June, enthusiastic divers from around the world travel 9-12 hours from Puerto Princesa to experience this magical wonder.
El Nido – The Enchanting Blue Sea
The small municipality of El Nido lies on the northern coast of Palawan, highlighting the most diverse and rich ecosystem in Philippines and the peaceful home of the highly endangered dugong.
How to get there: El Nido can be reached from Puerto Princesa in 2 common ways. Different options of shuttle van are available for 700-1,000 Peso/trip and take around 5-6 hours. At 500 Peso/trip, Roro Bus is the cheaper public transport option, but takes at least 8 hours to reach the destination.
El Nido Boutique & Artcafe
El Nido Boutique & Artcafe is virtually an unofficial tourist center of El Nido. Visitors stop by to refill and recharge with breakfast and lunch before setting out on their exploration. There’s also a small souvenir corner and drug store, as well as a travel desk for booking tours and transportations.
Address: Serena St, Barangay Buena Suerte, El Nido, 5313 Palawan, Philippines
Tel. +63 9 902 6317
It’s Time to Explore!
El Nido offers varieties of nature trips. Here are 4 popular routes you could take
ROUTE A – Miniloc island scenic route
Miniloc scenic route is probably the most popular trip for first-timer. You will get to explore the breathtaking sceneries of Small Lagoon and Big Lagoon, and snorkel at different spots along the coast.
ROUTE B – Island hopping
Follow the coral reef and hop around the 3 little islands off the coast of El Nido like Lagen island, Malapacao island and Inabuyatan island. Visitors particularly love the shoal of Snake Island where you could walk over a sandbar from Snake Island to the neighboring island.
ROUTE C – Matinloc Island adventure
If you love a little adventure, this is the perfect route! Explore the adventurous trails to Matinloc Shrine, but you won’t forget how amazing Hidden Beach and Secret Beach along the way are!
ROUTE D – Kayaking around Cadlao island
A little workout won’t hurt! Take a leisure kayaking route around Cadlao island. This safe and beautiful route isn’t just beautiful, but there are plenty to do and see, like Pasandigan Beach, Cadlao Lake, Bucal Beach, Natnat Beach, and Paradise Beach.
Tips: Pack a waterproof housing for your camera as a boat or kayak are limited in some adventure routes and may require you to swim to continue on the route!
República Sunset Bar
It’s only natural to be craving a sumptuous dinner after an activity-filled day. República Sunset Bar offers a chilling atmosphere by the charming sea. It is arguably the most beautiful restaurant in El Nido, and it’s best shared with friends or your significant other. Mark República Sunset Bar on your map, and it will be an impressive Filipino dinner you will never forget.
Address: Sitio Lugadia, Corong Corong, El Nido, Palawan, Philippines
Tel. +63 905 486 2499
Matinloc Resort
Surrounded by pristine nature, Matinloc Resort allows is a luxury getaway by the sea. The resort’s modern villas and suites are designed to complement the surrounding, so they never feel out of place. You will be pampered by the best services you can find on Matinhoc Island with plenty of activities, including exciting sea excursions, kayaking, snorkelling and scuba diving. But you can always stay at the resort and enjoy fresh seafood and a spa.
Address: Palio, Matinloc Island, El Nido, Palawan, Philippines
Tel. +63 8 244 1350, 1360
El Nido Lagen Island Resorts
Nestled by the cove overlooking a shallow lagoon, El Nido Lagen Island Resort offers an “Eco-Sanctuary” for visitors and all living creatures on, and around, the island. Besides water activities like diving and windsurfing, hiking and birds and wildlife watching are other great ways to learn about the real owners of this beautiful island.
Address: Bacuit Bay, 5313 El Nido, Palawan, Philippines
Tel. +63 2 902 5934
