Puerto Princesa City Tour with Local Guide & Pickup

Summary

Half-Day Puerto Princesa Sights & Local Flavors

You’ll jump right into Puerto Princesa life with a local guide showing you parks by the bay, historic sites, and even handing you fresh hopia at Baker’s Hill. From weaving workshops to crocodile encounters and souvenir stops, this half-day city tour gives you real moments and flavors you’ll remember long after heading home.

What’s the experience like?

I barely had time to finish my coffee before our guide, Mariel, waved from the van outside my hotel in Puerto Princesa. She greeted us like old friends — I guess that’s just how people are here. First stop was the bay park, where you could smell grilled corn and hear kids chasing each other even though it was still early. Mariel pointed out where they set up the giant Christmas tree every December — apparently it’s a bit of a local legend. I tried to imagine the lights at night.

The city cathedral surprised me — blue and white, almost glowing in the sun. We stepped inside for a moment and it was so quiet compared to the street outside. After that, we wandered through what used to be a fort during World War II (I didn’t expect to feel goosebumps reading those plaques). The air felt heavier there somehow, but then we were off again, windows down as we drove past tricycle drivers waving at us like they knew we were tourists.

I’ll admit I was nervous about the crocodile farm — turns out it smells exactly how you’d think (kind of swampy), but seeing those tiny baby crocs wriggling around was weirdly cute. Mariel told us about their rescue work and I could tell she really cared; she even showed us some rescued birds out back. Later at Baker’s Hill, there were these cartoon statues everywhere (kids loved them), but honestly I was just focused on the hopia pastry our guide handed out — sweet and flaky, still warm from the oven. Tried saying “hopia” properly; Li laughed at my accent.

We stopped by a weaving center next — watching hands move so fast over bright threads made me wish I had that kind of patience. Bought a little bag for my niece (she’ll probably use it for rocks or something). Last stop was souvenir shopping; I’m not much of a shopper but ended up with some pearls anyway because why not? The whole half-day tour felt like being shown around by someone who actually lives here, not just ticking boxes off a list. Still thinking about that quiet moment in the cathedral — funny what sticks with you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Puerto Princesa City Highlights

• A stroll at the bay park
• Visit the largest Catholic church
• Tour the historic WWII fort park
• Explore the Crocodile Farm
• See the house of Ramon Mitra
• Enjoy the local theme park and snacks
• Try traditional weaving
• Shop for souvenirs and pearls

Top questions

How long is the Puerto Princesa city tour?

The tour lasts about half a day and covers eight main stops around Puerto Princesa City.

Is pickup included in this Puerto Princesa city tour?

Yes, pickup and drop-off are included for locations within 15 kilometers of Puerto Princesa Airport.

What attractions are visited on this half-day tour?

You’ll visit parks by the bay, the city cathedral, an old fort park, crocodile farm, Baker’s Hill, weaving center, and souvenir shops.

Are snacks provided during the tour?

Yes, light snacks are provided at Baker’s Hill during your visit.

Is this tour suitable for families with children?

Yes, infants can ride in prams or strollers and children will enjoy places like Baker’s Hill.

Do I need to bring anything special for this day trip?

It’s recommended to bring water since it can get hot midday in Puerto Princesa.

Will there be a licensed guide on this city tour?

Yes, your group will be accompanied by a licensed local guide throughout the experience.

What’s included

Your half-day includes pickup and drop-off from hotels within 15 kilometers of Puerto Princesa Airport, air-conditioned transport between all eight stops around the city, light snacks at Baker’s Hill (don’t miss trying hopia), plus stories and insights from your licensed local guide along every step.