1. Go on an underground cruise and see a World Wonder

Image credit: Mike Gonzales

The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is definitely a must-see for first-time visitors! It boasts of a limestone karst landscape, an eight-kilometre underground river, and a UNESCO World Heritage title. While it’s just half an hour drive and boat ride away from the city, it’s best to book a tour in advance as schedules are almost always full. 

Hop aboard a paddle boat that will take you inside the Puerto Princesa Underground River. Marvel at the stalactites and stalagmites and learn about these formations from your guide as you go along. Watch out for the bats and swiftlets around the cave, and don’t worry about the smell — it’s not as bad as they say it is. 

Tip: If the short standard tour left you wanting more, you can actually proceed 4.3km further! Just be sure to secure a permit at least two days in advance from the Subterranean National Park Office.

Outside, the rainforest is teeming with wildlife from the monitor lizard (known among locals as bayawak) to the crab-eating monkey, and the endemic species like the Palawan porcupine and the Palawan bearded pig. If you’re into bird-watching, keep your eyes open for over a hundred different bird species of different sizes and colours. 

2. Zoom across crystal clear waters in Sabang Beach

The Sabang X Zipline takes you on a scenic ride at 150 feet above sea level. And since the zipline is at a relatively low speed, you can take in the aerial views of the sea and mountains. This is definitely a plus for those who aren’t heavily into adrenaline-packed activities!

3. See the sweeping hillside views, then have some baked goodies too!

Image credit: Mats Sjödin

Enjoy views of the city and the sea from the hillside Mitra’s Ranch. Though the property is privately owned, most of it is open to the public — including the viewing deck and the sprawling grounds where you can have a picnic! Other activities include horseback riding and a hanging bridge.

Image credit: Marcy Miniano

Just down the street is Baker’s Hill, where you can find all sorts of freshly baked goodies that you can pack for the road or even take home. It also has a small park of sorts, with life-size Disney statues, a playground, a garden that is lit up at night, and peacocks. It’s like the grandparents’ house you wished you had as a kid, if your grandparents also baked best-selling hopia every day!