Anyone been to Coron or El Nido in Palawan, Philippines recently? Any tips pls? We will be spending 3 nighrs each in Coron and El Nido in Jan 2026. I have my hotels booked but not sure if location was ideal. Based on your experience, is location THAT important when being there or the excursions/island tours provide that Palawan experience? Also, do yiu remember the going rate of these island tours?
Thank you in advance.
We were there in March; both locations are great. We were on an Eldertreks trip for a month in many Philippine locations so don't know the actual cost of local tours. That said, they are plentiful - easy to get trips from multiple sellers from what we could see just walking on the beach. The waters and snorkelling are out of this world - crystal clear, clean, lots of brilliantly coloured coral, fish, sea stars, etc.
@Loreen, I am glad that you had a great trip. Palawan and Coron are two "dream" destinations of mine. However, I travel solo (female) and wonder if it's safe for me. What do you think? Thank you.
I would say that the Philippines on the whole is quite safe. Perhaps not Manila, but there is no need to spend much time there. Even there, all you have to do is exercise the same caution as you would in any large city - stay in a good hotel (Hotel Savoy is right near the airport with included transfers if you are just flying in and out) such as the Manila Hotel, take a guided city tour and watch your valuables. I don't think you'll have any trouble. Filipinos are among the nicest, kindest, most respectful and genuine people I've met anywhere.
@Loreen: thank you for your affirmative reply.
