Palawan, Philippines
Visa and entry circumstances vary based on your nationality and the purpose and duration of your visit. Many nationalities enjoy visa-free entry for tourism for up to 30 days.
For visa-free entry, you must hold a passport valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay and a confirmed onward or return flight ticket. Some citizens, for example from China, India, and Russia, secure a visa in advance from a Philippine embassy or consulate.
No general entry fee applies for tourists. Upon arrival, present your passport and completed arrival card to an immigration officer. Biometric data might be collected.
A permit to enter the Puerto Princesa Underground River is mandatory and must be secured in advance. Most travelers get this permit through a tour package in Puerto Princesa. Visitors also pay an Environmental Tourism Administrative Fee (ETAF) for local conservation efforts.
For 30 days or less
Many countries, including USA, Canada, Australia, EU.
Valid passport (6+ months), confirmed exit ticket.
For specific nationalities
Citizens from countries like China, India, Russia.
Secure from Philippine embassy/consulate in advance.
If you plan to stay longer
Bureau of Immigration office in Puerto Princesa.
Requires application, documents, and fee for specific periods.
The official currency is the Philippine Peso (₱ or PHP). Major international currencies convert at banks and authorized money changers mainly in Puerto Princesa City. Options for currency exchange in Sabang are very limited. ATMs are plentiful in Puerto Princesa but scarce in Sabang. Exchanging or withdrawing sufficient cash in Puerto Princesa before traveling to Sabang is highly recommended.
Tipping is not mandatory in the Philippines but garners appreciation, especially in tourist areas. For restaurants, consider 5-10% for good service. Many establishments include a 10% service charge. For full-day tour guides/drivers, a tip of ₱100-₱300 per person is a generous gesture. For hotel porters or housekeepers, ₱50-₱100 is appropriate.
$25-$70 per day.
$70-$160 per day.
$160+ per day.
₱80-₱200 ($1.5-$3.5) per dish.
₱1,500-₱2,500 ($26-$43) per person.
Consult a travel doctor 4-6 weeks before your trip to discuss vaccination needs. Routine vaccinations must be current. Hepatitis A and B, and Typhoid are highly recommended.
Medical facilities in Sabang are limited to small local clinics. For serious matters, travel to Puerto Princesa City. Hospitals there, especially private ones, offer better facilities.
High Season (Dec-Feb) means optimal weather but higher costs and more crowds. Shoulder Season (Nov, Mar-May) balances good weather and fewer crowds, with moderate prices. Low Season (Jun-Oct) means the lowest prices but higher rain chances and rougher seas.
Before traveling, consult health professionals regarding vaccinations. Use official resources for visa and entry requirements. These IVisa and VisaHQ offer visa assistance. Secure comprehensive travel insurance, considering World Nomads or SafetyWing. Also consider Insubuy for specific needs. In the event of flight delays, AirHelp may retrieve compensation.
For water safety, a LifeStraw offers a personal water filter. For immediate medical needs, Adventure Medical Kits provide first aid supplies.
Keep valuables secure with Pacsafe anti-theft bags.
Discuss vaccination needs with a travel doctor. Hepatitis A, B, and Typhoid are widely recommended. Rabies and Japanese Encephalitis are for longer stays or rural exposure.
Ensure all routine vaccinations are current.
Avoid tap water; use bottled water or a Purification device.
Traveler's diarrhea is common. Drink safe water, eat hot, freshly cooked food. Dengue fever, mosquito-borne, warrants Insect repellent and Long sleeves. Heat exhaustion calls for hydration and shade.
Carry Anti-diarrhea medication like Imodium.
Avoid raw vegetables washed in tap water.
Medical facilities in Sabang are basic. For serious needs, travel to Puerto Princesa City's hospitals. The nationwide emergency hotline is 911 for police, fire, and medical emergencies. Keep your embassy contact details accessible.
Carry a laminated card with emergency contacts and allergies.
Do not rely on Sabang for comprehensive medical treatment.
| Category | Consideration | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Crime | Sabang is generally very safe. Petty crime is rare but can occur in crowded areas. | Maintain awareness, keep valuables secure. |
| Typhoons | Possible from July-Oct, bring heavy rain/winds. Palawan is generally sheltered. | Travel disruptions, tour cancellations possible. Monitor forecasts. |
| Earthquakes/Tsunamis | Philippines is seismic zone. Destructive quakes rare in Palawan. Sabang bay offers some shelter from tsunamis. | Minor tremors happen. No regular concerns for Sabang. |
