Puerto Princesa
City guide · Mimaropa · Philippines
Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park · Palawan Provincial Capitol
About Puerto Princesa
Puerto Princesa is a highly urbanized city in the Mimaropa region of the Philippines, located in the western province of Palawan. It is the westernmost city in the country and serves as the capital of Palawan. Known as the 'Eco-Tourism Center of the Philippines,' the city is a gateway to natural attractions, including the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. The city was founded on March 4, 1872, achieved cityhood on January 1, 1970, and became a highly urbanized city on July 21, 2007. It is named after Infanta Eulalia of Spain, originally called Puerto de la Princesa. As of the 2024 census, the city has a population of 316,384 people.
Who this destination fits
Highlights worth planning around
Strong fit
- Serves as the capital of Palawan and a gateway to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a major natural attraction
- Recognized as the 'Eco-Tourism Center of the Philippines,' highlighting its focus on nature-based travel
- Designated as a highly urbanized city, indicating developed infrastructure and services
- Located in the Mimaropa region with access to diverse ecosystems, including coastal and forest areas
Tradeoffs
- As a highly urbanized city, it may lack the remote, untouched feel that some travelers seek in Palawan
- Being the westernmost city in the Philippines, it may require longer travel times from major international hubs
- The city's focus on ecotourism may mean limited nightlife or urban entertainment options compared to larger metropolitan areas