Palawan is an island province in the Philippines, located in the Western Visayas region. It is known for its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and diverse marine life, making it a popular destination for tourists and divers.  Palawan is often referred the “Last Eden”.

The capital city of Palawan is Puerto Princesa, which is home to the famous Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This natural wonder is a cave system that runs for over 8 kilometers and is considered one of the longest underground rivers in the world. Visitors can take a boat tour to explore the caves and see the unique rock formations and wildlife that live within.

History

The first inhabitants were the Palawano people, who are an Austronesian ethnic group. The Palawano people have lived in Palawan for centuries and have a rich culture and history.

In the 16th century, the Spanish arrived and colonized the island. The Spanish ruled for over 300 years, during which time they introduced Christianity and Western culture to the island.

In the late 19th century, the United States took control of Palawan from the Spanish. The Americans ruled for over 50 years, during which time they built roads, schools, and hospitals on the island.

In 1946, The province became part of the independent Republic of the Philippines. Since then, the region has become a popular tourist destination, known for its natural beauty and laid-back lifestyle.

Geography

Palawan is the largest province in the Philippines by land area. It is about 450 kilometers (280 miles) long and 150 kilometers (93 miles) wide. The province is made up of over 1,700 islands and islets. The largest island in is Palawan Island, which is home to the provincial capital, Puerto Princesa.

Palawan is located in the westernmost part of the Philippines, between the South China Sea and the Sulu Sea. The province is surrounded by several other provinces, including Mindoro to the northeast, and Tawi-Tawi to the southwest.

Climate

Palawan has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures and high humidity year-round. The wet season runs from November to April, and the dry season runs from May to October.

Flora and Fauna

The province is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The island’s forests are home to a number of hardwood trees, such as narra, apitong, and ipil. The island’s waters are home to a variety of marine life, including coral reefs, fish, and turtles. It is also home to the Palawan bearcat, the Visayan warty pig, and the Philippine cockatoo.

Things to Do in Palawan

There are a number of things to do in Palawan, including:

Snorkeling and diving:

Palawan is a popular destination for snorkeling and diving. The island’s waters are home to a variety of coral reefs and shipwrecks. Some popular diving spots include the Tubbataha Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Apo Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world.

Hiking:

Palawan has a number of hiking trails that offer stunning views of the island’s scenery.

Birdwatching:

Palawan is home to a number of bird species, including the Palawan peacock-pheasant, the Visayan hornbill, and the Philippine trogon.

Visiting the local villages of Palawan:

Palawan is home to a number of indigenous villages. Visitors can learn about the culture and traditions of the local people.  The province is home to several indigenous communities. Visitors can learn about their culture and way of life by visiting the “Palawan Heritage Center” or by taking a tour of the Batak village.

Relaxing on the beach:

Palawan has a number of beautiful beaches that are perfect for relaxing and sunbathing.

Exploring the underground river:

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is home to an 8.2-kilometer (5.1-mile) long underground river that winds through a limestone cave.

Caving in Palawan:

Caves that are open to tourists. These caves offer a unique opportunity to see the island’s underground landscape.

White Water Rafting:

A number of whitewater rafting rivers offer a thrilling adventure.

Island Hopping in the Palawan Group of Islands:

Palawan has a number of beautiful islands that can be visited on day trips or overnight excursions.   El Nido, is a town located on the northern tip of the island. Here, visitors can enjoy island hopping tours to see Bacuit Bay, a group of stunning limestone cliffs and islands, and the stunning beaches of Cadlao Island, Lagen Island, and Miniloc Island.

Palawan is an ideal destination for travelers looking for adventure, nature, and culture. With its crystal-clear waters, lush jungles, and diverse marine life, it offers a wide range of activities and experiences. The province has something for everyone,  beautiful beaches, a cave system, or the depths of the ocean.