Sabang Palawan, Philippines Travel Guide
Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS) is the closest and most convenient airport to Sabang, located approximately 1.5 to A drive of 2 hours northwest. Domestic flights from major Philippine cities land here. Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia Philippines are the main carriers for inter-island travel.
High Season (Dec-Feb) sees high flight demand and increased prices. Booking 3-6 reserving months in advance is wise. Low Season (Jun-Oct) means lower prices but possible weather impacts. PPS has a small, single terminal with basic facilities: ATMs, currency exchange, eateries, and souvenir stalls.
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No direct tourist ferry services arrive in Sabang from other islands. Ferries to Palawan usually dock in Puerto Princesa or Coron. Sabang's pier serves smaller local outrigger boats only.
Paddle boats transport visitors inside the Puerto Princesa Underground River cave system. Paddle boats also serve for tours through the nearby mangrove forests, offering a serene experience.
Traditional Filipino outrigger boats (bancas) manage the short transfer from Sabang pier to the Underground River cave entrance. This forms a standard component of the Underground River tour logistics.
No separate airport exit fees or taxes are typically paid when departing the Philippines from Puerto Princesa (PPS) or Manila (NAIA). These fees usually form a portion of your airfare upon ticket purchase. If you independently obtained your Underground River permit, return it to the office in Sabang before leaving the area.
Puerto Princesa Airport (PPS) contains basic facilities for departing passengers. These include small cafes for snacks or drinks and a few souvenir shops for last-minute purchases. Do not expect extensive dining or shopping options compared to bigger international airports.
Verify that all your travel documents are secure and accessible. Double-check your flight status and any updates from your airline. Allow ample time for transit from Sabang to Puerto Princesa, especially during peak hours.
If departing directly from Sabang, arrange your van transfer well in advance. This strategy mitigates stress and positions you closer to the airport for a smoother departure process.
Collective vans offer the most efficient connection between Sabang and Puerto Princesa City. They operate on a regular schedule during daylight hours, offering pick-up and drop-off services. Buses generally serve more local routes and might be slower.
Car and motorcycle things to rent are available in Puerto Princesa City. An International Driving Permit (IDP) and your domestic license are necessary. Road conditions from Puerto Princesa to Sabang vary, with some unpaved sections closer to the village. Driving on the right is the standard.
No direct tourist ferry services to Sabang. Local outrigger boats (Bancas) move visitors to River Below ground entrance.
Paddle boats navigate inside the Underground River cave and through the mangrove forests for guided tours.
Upon arrival at Sabang pier, tricycles for short distances are available. Shared vans connect for travel to Puerto Princesa.
Sabang village is compact and very walkable. The most popular beach area, the pier, and most local eateries are easily accessible on foot. Wander down the beachfront, explore small lanes, and reach most points of interest. The Monkey Trail offers a scenic walking route to the Underground River entrance, taking 30-45 minutes one way.
Sabang has no dedicated bicycle lanes. Cycling is possible on main roads and within the village, sharing the road with vans, tricycles, and motorcycles. Exercise caution, especially on the main road where traffic moves quickly. Some accommodations may offer bicycle rentals to guests for local exploration.
These services are unavailable in Sabang. Organized tours for the Underground River and nearby attractions mainly use shared or private vans for land transport.
Outrigger boats (bancas) manage transfers from Sabang pier to the Underground River. Paddle boats take visitors inside the cave and for mangrove tours.
The tricycle serves as the main unique local transport on land. There are no cable cars or funiculars. Accessibility services for mobility needs are generally private arrangements.
Walking the Monkey Trail to the Underground River entrance has a different view of the preserve's ecosystem. It is a great way to spot wildlife before your cave tour, adding an unique dimension to your visit.
