Balabac has always been on my travel bucket list ever since I stumbled upon photos of its pristine islands online. Unlike the more popular destinations in Palawan, such as Coron and El Nido, Balabac offers a truly off-the-beaten-path experience. It’s a hidden gem that remains relatively unknown, even among local tourists! When I found a group of freedivers eager to explore Balabac, I knew it was the perfect opportunity to finally make the trip happen.
In this blog, I’ll share everything you need to know to plan your adventure to this remote paradise. From a detailed Balabac Itinerary, travel tips to estimated budget, this guide has got you covered.
Before you dive into planning your Balabac adventure, don’t miss my Coron Itinerary and El Nido Itinerary—perfect if you’re exploring these breathtaking islands before heading to Balabac.
Table of Contents
- Planning your Trip to Balabac, Palawan
- Balabac Itinerary: What to do and Where to go
- Balabac Itinerary: Things to know before you go
- Is it safe to travel to Balabac, Palawan?
- Is there a risk of malaria in Balabac?
- Does Balabac have crocodiles?
- Is there a mobile signal in Balabac, Palawan?
- Do you need cash in Balabac?
- How much does it cost to travel to Balabac?
- Is there electricity in Balabac?
- Are there vegan options in Balabac? Is Balabac vegan-friendly?
- What language is spoken in Balabac?
- Enjoying the trip so far? Continue your adventure in El Nido and Coron!
- Pin this for future reference!
Planning your Trip to Balabac, Palawan
Best Time to Go to Balabac, Palawan
The ideal time to visit Balabac is during the dry season (from March to May), when the weather is perfect for island hopping, snorkeling, and other outdoor activities. During this period, the seas are calm, and you can enjoy sunny days with little to no rain.
It’s best to avoid the rainy season (from June to October), as boat rides can be rough, and tours may be canceled due to inclement weather.
You can also visit between November and February, which is still considered the dry season. While it won’t be as hot as March to May, temperatures are more comfortable, and there’s a lower chance of rain, making it a good alternative for travelers who prefer milder weather.
Where to book your tours in Balabac?
For booking a tour in Balabac, we chose Balabac Island Tours – Kamp Malaya, and it was a fantastic experience. Our 4-day, 3-night tour cost ₱12,700 per person, which covered everything from full-board meals, accommodation, tour guide, and tour fees to boat and van transfers (from Puerto Princesa to Buliluyan).
The package also included a tour insurance, environmental fees, and a day tour pass to Onuk Island. There is an option to stay overnight in Onuk Island for an additional ₱500. Be sure to coordinate this with Kamp Malaya in advance, as availability may vary.
Please note that Kamp Malaya does not have a website, so bookings can be arranged directly through their official Facebook page or through their owner, Kuya Motet’s Facebook page.
How to get to Balabac
Take a direct flight from Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 to Puerto Princesa International Airport, the main gateway to Palawan. To maximize your time, it’s best to book the earliest flight from Manila and plan to arrive in Puerto Princesa a day before your Balabac tour begins.
From Puerto Princesa, your tour guide will pick you up for the journey to Buliluyan Port in southern Palawan. The drive takes approximately 4-5 hours, so be prepared for a long but scenic ride. Once you arrive at Buliluyan Port, your island-hopping adventure begins!
Where to Stay in Balabac
Balabac is a remote destination, so you won’t find large hotels or high-end resorts here. Most accommodations are family-owned and simple, though a few new resorts are emerging as the area attracts more visitors. If you join the Kamp Malaya Balabac Tour, however, you won’t have to worry about where to stay. Their base camp is on Sicsican Island, which I believe is one of the best islands in Balabac. The camp features basic nipa huts with comfortable beds and essential amenities. While the bathrooms are simple, they are consistently kept clean and well-maintained by the friendly staff.
Balabac Itinerary: What to do and Where to go
Balabac Islands and Top Tourist Spots
Balabac consists of 36 islands, many of which remain uninhabited. Below is a list of islands commonly included in island-hopping tours, showcasing the natural beauty and charm of Balabac.
Canimeran Island
Located south of Balabac’s main island, Canimeran Island boasts pristine white sand with a subtle pink hue from red coral particles. Surrounded by clear turquoise waters and lush coconut trees, it’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The pink hue isn’t noticeable from afar, but up close, it’s unmistakable and truly mesmerizing. Locals refer to the island as “Patongong Dos,” after its neighboring island, Patongong.
Patawan Island
Patawan is a dolphin-shaped island just a 30-minute boat ride from Canimeran Island. Its features include a powdery white sand beach, tinged pink from fragments of red coral, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The island was once uninhabited, but with the recent opening of Patawan Island Resort, it’s gaining more attention. Hopefully, the resort will help preserve the island’s pristine beauty for years to come. For me, Patawan Island ranks among the top three must-visit islands in Balabac.
Sicsican Island
Sicsican Island is one of the most picturesque, palm-fringed islands in Balabac. With its creamy-colored sand beach and vibrant coral reefs, it’s easily one of the best spots in the area. Our freediving group explored several dive sites around the island and unanimously agreed that the underwater world here is nothing short of magical. We even spotted eagle rays multiple times during our dives! If you’re looking for a mix of stunning scenery and incredible marine life, Sicsican Island is the place to be.
Nasubata Island / Nasubata Reef
Unlike most islands in Balabac, Nasubata Island doesn’t feature a stretch of white sand beach. Instead, it’s characterized by a large rock formation covered with lush trees and surrounded by a vibrant coral reef.
Our boat anchored near the reef’s edge. While some of us explored the shallow areas, the more experienced divers ventured to the deeper sections, descending as far as 20 meters. The water here was crystal clear, making every dive an absolute delight.
Onuk Island
Onuk Island is arguably the most iconic destination in Balabac. It is often hailed as its crown jewel—and for good reason. This breathtaking island features stilted houses connected by a boardwalk over a stunning sandbar. Surrounded by vast turquoise shallows and pristine coral reefs, it’s a paradise that deserves a spot in every Balabac itinerary. Beyond its powdery white sand beach, Onuk Island offers unique experiences, such as snorkeling with giant clams at the nearby Giant Clam Sanctuary.
Tangkahan Island
Tangkahan Island is a tropical paradise featuring white sandy beaches, towering palm trees, and waters with varying shades of blue. Conveniently located near Buliluyan Port, Patawan Island, and Canimeran Island, it often serves as either the first or final stop on most Balabac tours, offering a stunning introduction or farewell to this breathtaking region.
Mansalangan Sandbar
Mansalangan Sandbar is one of the longest sandbars in the Philippines. Stretching endlessly and snaking across the turquoise waters, this picturesque sandbar connects to Byan Island, located east of Matangule Island.
During our visit, the high tide concealed much of its grandeur, but even then, its fine, powdery white sand left a lasting impression. Seeing it at low tide must be spectacular, and it’s undoubtedly a must-visit for anyone exploring Balabac’s stunning seascape.
Punta Sebaring
Located on Bugsuk Island, Punta Sebaring is a long stretch of beach renowned for having the finest white sand in Balabac—often compared to the pristine sands of Boracay. The sand is so soft that your feet will sink with every step. Punta Sebaring is a true gem that deserves a spot on your Balabac itinerary!
Be warned! Punta Sebaring is infested with niknik (sand flies), and their bites are no joke! To protect yourself, apply insect repellent generously and avoid sitting or lying directly on the sand. If you can resist the island’s allure, consider staying on the boat and admiring its beauty from afar. Trust me, saving yourself from the relentless bites is worth it because niknik bites can be the most unpleasant souvenir from your Balabac trip!
Candaraman Island
Candaraman Island is best known for its Starfish Sandbar, a must-see highlight in any Balabac itinerary. The island boasts cream-colored beach sand, crystal clear turquoise waters, and tall palm trees. From October until February or March, the sandbar comes alive with countless starfish scattered across its powdery sands.
Freediving Balabac
If there’s one activity you absolutely must include in your Balabac Itinerary, it’s freediving. Whether you’re an experienced freediver or just starting out, this adventure tops my list of recommendations. Since there are no local freediving groups in Balabac, you’ll need to join a group based in Manila or Batangas. These trips are usually available from March to May, the ideal season for freediving due to calmer weather conditions.
A word of caution: never attempt to go freediving alone. Instead, look for organized groups on platforms like Facebook—just like I did! I arranged a freediving trip to Balabac and partnered with Kamp Malaya as our tour operator. They were thrilled to host freedivers, as not many tourists think of Balabac as a freediving destination.
During our trip, Kuya Motet, one of the guides, shared how Balabac is home to countless incredible underwater gems waiting to be discovered. Exploring these pristine waters with a group made the experience even more memorable, and I can’t recommend it enough!
5-day Balabac Itinerary
Given the long journey to reach Balabac, it’s best to allocate at least five days for your trip. This will give you 4 days and 3 nights to explore the islands and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. I highly recommend arriving in Puerto Princesa a day before your Balabac tour begins. Spend your first day exploring the city, as most tours depart early in the morning from Puerto Princesa to Balabac.
Manila to Puerto Prinsesa (Day 1)
- Flight from Manila to Puerto Princesa
- Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour (ETA is 7 AM so you have to take the earliest flight from Manila) OR
- Puerto Princesa City Heritage Tour
- Try Chao Long, a Palawan twist on Vietnamese Pho, but with Filipino flavors. You can enjoy it at popular spots like Vietville or Bonas Chao Long.
- Check-in to your accommodation
- Dinner at Kalui Seafood Restaurant
Puerto Princesa to Balabac (Day 2)
- Pick up from Puerto Princesa hotel to Buliluyan Port
- Breakfast at a town near the port
- Registration at the port
- Start of island hopping tour – Canimeran Island and Patawan Island
- Check in to accommodation at Sicsican Island
- Dinner and socials at Sicsican Island
Balabac Island-hopping Tour (Day 3)
- Wake up early for sunrise and enjoy hot coffee
- Breakfast
- Freediving at Nasubata Reef
- Half day at Onuk Island
- Starfish Sandbar at Candaraman Island
- Back to Sicsican Island (enjoy the sunset in this island! it’s spectacular!)
Balabac Island-hopping Tour (Day 4)
- Wake up early for sunrise and enjoy hot coffee
- Breakfast
- Mansalangan Sandbar
- Bragi Island
- Punta Sebaring
- Back to Sicsican Island (enjoy the sunset in this island! it’s spectacular!)
Back to Puerto Prinsesa (Day 5)
- Wake up early for sunrise and enjoy hot coffee
- Breakfast
- Canibugan Island
- Tangkahan Island
- Back to Buliluyan Port
- Travel back to Puerto Prinsesa
Things to Bring to Balabac
- Valid ID
- Cash (no ATMs in Balabac)
- Tickets and booking confirmations
- Light, breathable clothes
- Swimwear and rash guards
- Hat or cap
- Sarong or quick-dry towel
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Insect repellent or lotion
- Snorkeling/Freediving Gear (Mask, snorkel and Fins)
- Personal toiletries
- Medicines (e.g., seasickness tablets, pain relievers)
- First aid kit
- Waterproof dry bag
- Power bank
- Underwater camera or action camera like GoPro
- Energy bars or snacks
- Reusable water bottle
Balabac Itinerary: Things to know before you go
Is it safe to travel to Balabac, Palawan?
Traveling to Balabac, Palawan is generally safe, especially for those joining organized tours with licensed operators. On our visit, I never experienced any security issues or felt threatened at any time. The locals are incredibly friendly and welcoming.
For foreign travelers, it’s still important to check your country’s embassy website for updated travel advisories before planning your trip to the Philippines. Staying informed ensures you’re aware of any potential risks.
Is there a risk of malaria in Balabac?
While malaria cases in Balabac are rare, it’s still wise to take precautions, as the area is remote and tropical. Consider consulting your doctor before your trip about preventive measures, such as antimalarial medication. To stay safe, bring mosquito repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing during evenings, and use mosquito nets if your accommodation provides them.
Does Balabac have crocodiles?
Yes, Balabac is home to saltwater crocodiles (salties), primarily in mangroves and marshy areas. However, these reptiles are not commonly seen in tourist spots like the islands and beaches you’ll visit during an island-hopping tour. Always follow your guide’s advice and avoid exploring mangrove areas without proper precautions.
Is there a mobile signal in Balabac, Palawan?
Most of the islands in Balabac have very limited or no signal at all. In Balabac town, Smart provides decent coverage, but Globe users are out of luck—there’s practically no signal for Globe anywhere in Balabac. Speaking from experience as a Globe user, my travel companions with Smart had better connectivity, even on remote islands like our base, Sicsican Island.
If you’re a foreign traveler, I recommend using Smart for better coverage. You can purchase a local Smart SIM when you arrive in Manila. Alternatively, consider getting a Klook eSIM for Asia Pacific, which connects to Smart. Having used this eSIM on previous trips, I can say it’s one of the most convenient options.
Do you need cash in Balabac?
Yes, cash is essential in Balabac since there are no ATMs or card payment facilities. Make sure to bring enough cash to cover your tour fees, tips, and personal expenses.
However, you can ask your tour operator if they accept payments via GCash, a widely used mobile wallet app in the Philippines. GCash allows you to send money, pay bills, and make purchases using your smartphone. It’s a convenient option, especially if you don’t want to carry large amounts of cash.
How much does it cost to travel to Balabac?
A 5-day trip to Balabac is generally budget-friendly, with costs depending on the tour operator, group size, and your travel arrangements. As of now, there are no luxury accommodations or high-end options available, so expect simple and affordable pricing.
To give you an idea, my 5-day trip cost ₱17,092.16 (USD 290), as I managed to book cheap airfare from Manila to Puerto Princesa. If you’re planning a trip, prepare a budget of around ₱20,000 (USD 340) to cover flights, transfers, tours, meals, and other expenses. Check my expenses breakdown below.
| Expense | Cost (PHP) | Notes |
| Airfare (Manila to Puerto Princesa, roundtrip) | 2,000.92 | Promo fare. Book early for the best deals. |
| Tour Package | 12,700 | Includes boat transfers, accommodation, full-board meals, tour guide, travel insurance during the tour, environmental fees, and day pass to Onuk Island (via Kamp Malaya). |
| Van Transfer (Puerto Princesa to Buliluyan Port, roundtrip) | Included in the tour | Conveniently arranged by Kamp Malaya. |
| Tricycle Rides in Puerto Princesa | 100 | For short trips within the city (e.g., airport to accommodation). |
| Puerto Princesa Airbnb (1 night) | 516.24 | Stay in Puerto Princesa the day before the tour. if you are traveling as a group (not a joiner tour), better to stay in one place to avoid delays in pickup on the start of the tour. |
| Food Outside of Tour Package | 1,000 | Meals or snacks not included in the tour package (e.g., while in Puerto Princesa). |
| Tips for Guides and Boatmen | 500 | Recommended to show appreciation for their hard work ^_^ |
| Travel Insurance | 275 | AXA Travel Insurance for domestic trips (5 days). This is just optional but if you’re paranoid like me, go get one lol! |
Is there electricity in Balabac?
Electricity in Balabac is limited and mostly powered by generators. Many areas, including accommodations, only have power during specific hours, usually in the evening. Bring a power bank to keep your devices charged and ready for your adventure.
Are there vegan options in Balabac? Is Balabac vegan-friendly?
Balabac is not particularly vegan-friendly, as meals in most tours and local accommodations typically feature fresh seafood, chicken, or pork dishes. However, it’s possible to request vegan options in advance. If you’re vegan, inform your tour operator when booking so they can prepare meals that meet your dietary needs.
Options might include rice, fresh tropical fruits, and simple vegetable dishes like sautéed greens or grilled vegetables. If you have specific preferences, consider bringing your own vegan snacks, plant-based protein, or non-perishable items to supplement the available options.
What language is spoken in Balabac?
While Filipino (Tagalog) is widely spoken in Balabac, the locals primarily speak Cuyonon, a regional dialect. English is also understood, especially by tour operators, guides, and those who work in tourism. Foreign travelers may encounter a slight language barrier when interacting with locals outside the tourism industry. However, Balabac’s friendly residents are often willing to help, and basic English or simple gestures can usually bridge any gaps.
Enjoying the trip so far? Continue your adventure in El Nido and Coron!
After an unforgettable trip in Balabac, continue your journey to El Nido, where breathtaking lakes and lagoons await. From there, embark on an El Nido to Coron Expedition, exploring Coron’s iconic highlights like Kayangan Lake and Twin Lagoon while uncovering hidden gems. Dedicate two weeks to this incredible Balabac, El Nido, and Coron itinerary, and experience the very best of Palawan’s natural beauty.
Pin this for future reference!
And that wraps up my adventure in Balabac, Palawan! I hope this Balabac itinerary helps you plan your own trip to this beautiful island. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, feel free to share them below. I love hearing from you!
