Direct flights to the best island in the Philippines – Puerto Princesa, Palawan. Check out 8 must-visit attractions first!

Reporter Chen Zi-Yin / Report from the Philippines

When people think of the Philippines, they usually think of Boracay, Manila, Cebu, or Bohol. But now you absolutely can’t miss – Palawan. Known as the “last frontier of the Philippines,” Palawan was voted the world’s best island by readers of Condé Nast Traveler magazine in 2014, putting it back in the international spotlight. Taiwanese travelers are also starting to discover this mysterious archipelago. Recently, Philippine Airlines announced that it will operate chartered direct flights to Puerto Princesa Airport (Puerto Princesa International Airport) in central Palawan in February 2015. Now, through a report by ETtoday EBC News Cloud, get a sneak peek at the must-visit attractions around Puerto Princesa recommended by local guides.

1. Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park

▲ Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New7Wonders of Nature. (Photo / Reporter Chen Zi-Yin)

Located on the west coast of central Palawan, Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is also one of the New7Wonders of Nature. Senior guide Ah Jun said that the 8-kilometer-long underground river in the mountains was discovered by locals in 1887 and is currently the longest navigable underground river in the world. During the approximately 1.5-kilometer boat ride, visitors can see bizarre stalactites shaped like jellyfish, tulips, and dinosaur heads. To venture deeper into the river, visitors must apply for government permission, and the full boat trip takes about 4 hours.

2. Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm

▲ Inmates at Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm can interact closely with visitors. (Photo / Reporter Chen Zi-Yin)

Most criminals who are imprisoned face the punishment of losing their freedom and live in almost complete isolation. But this prison in Palawan, Philippines, might just change your perception. The “Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm” is a rather unique facility where inmates are not locked up but are allowed to move freely outdoors. The prison even offers free tours for visitors and allows them to chat closely with the inmates. The vast land of Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm is divided into areas for high-risk, medium-risk, and low-risk inmates, who wear black, blue, and khaki uniforms respectively. Though technically confined within certain boundaries, the area is so expansive that it looks as if the inmates are free.

3. Ugong Rock Adventures

▲ At Ugong Rock Adventures, you can climb limestone cliffs and then try a high-altitude rappel. (Photo / Reporter Chen Zi-Yin)

Ugong Rock Adventures is perfect for thrill-seekers. Towering dozens of meters above the ground, the limestone jungle lets you weave through crevices and caves, admiring uniquely shaped rocks. Some climbing with ropes is required to reach the top, which takes about an hour. Finally, the most exciting part is trying the “cliff rappel” at the summit – leaping off and sliding 380 meters down a zip line. Imagine yourself as a flying acrobat soaring over farmland and small houses. It’s incredibly thrilling and fun.

4. Mitra’s Ranch

▲ A fully wooden villa built on a highland grassland. (Photo / Reporter Chen Zi-Yin)

Mitra’s Ranch is actually a tourist attraction too? That’s right. Philippine Senator Ramon Mitra built this all-wooden villa on lush highland grassland. Aside from touring the cozy wooden house, you can enjoy the view from the front yard overlooking the Sulu Sea and Honda Bay — a truly refreshing sight.

5. Crocodile Farming Institute

▲ The Crocodile Farming Institute promotes crocodile conservation awareness. (Photo / Reporter Chen Zi-Yin)

Palawan has been the site of multiple discoveries of giant crocodiles, including the world’s largest and second-largest crocodiles. The Crocodile Farming Institute is dedicated to promoting crocodile conservation. Here, you can see a 5-meter-long, 600-kilogram live crocodile as well as newly hatched baby crocs. If you’re brave enough, you can even hold a baby crocodile for a photo.

6. Starfish Island

▲ Starfish Island is named for its abundance of starfish. (Photo / Reporter Chen Zi-Yin)

Starfish Island is a small island famous for its starfish. Legend says these starfish are the “tears of the princess,” and they are often found in large numbers along the shore. Tourists love taking photos with them, but remember to put them back in the ocean!

7. Snake Island
Snake Island got its name from its 4-kilometer stretch of pristine white sandy beach. The island has powdery white sand, countless crabs, shellfish, and living coral. Unfortunately, the island has recently been purchased by someone and is currently closed to the public. However, if the new owner plans to develop it in the future, it may reopen for tourists.

8. Pandan Island

▲ Pandan Island, loved by Filipinos for vacationing. (Photo / Reporter Chen Zi-Yin)

Pandan Island is a laid-back and tranquil island, also very popular among Filipinos for family vacations. With its crystal-clear blue waters, white sandy beaches, and swaying palm trees, it’s a true tropical paradise. Many visitors come here to relax, sip coconut water, or snorkel in the gentle sea. Whether you're traveling with family or friends, it's a great place to unwind.

※ To get from Taiwan to Puerto Princesa, Palawan, you can take a flight with Cebu Pacific to Manila and then transfer to Puerto Princesa Airport (Puerto Princesa International Airport), or choose a direct chartered flight operated by Philippine Airlines after February 13, 2015.