Palawan is rated by National Geographic Traveler magazine as the best island destination in East and Southeast Asia region in 2007, and the 13th best island in the world having "incredibly beautiful natural seascapes and landscapes. One of the most biodiverse (terrestrial and marine) islands in the Philippines...The island has had a Biosphere Reserve status since early 1990s, showing local interest for conservation and sustainable development".
Trek in the Palawan jungle to see the The Batak, believed to be the oldest inhabitants of the Philippines, who still live as cave dwellers, hunting in the forest with blowguns. The Batak still live largely as they have for centuries, as semi-nomadic hunter gatherers. They are by
far the smallest tribe, both in stature and in numbers. The average Batak man barely stands five feet tall. The tribal population is estimated at 360 members.
See the Unesco World Heritage site - The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park which features a spectacular limestone karst landscape with its underground river. A distinguishing feature of the river is that it flows directly into the sea, and the lower portion of the river is subject to tidal influences. The area also represents a significant habitat for biodiversity conservation. The site contains a full mountain to the sea ecosystem and protects forests, which are among the most significant in Asia.
The marvelous land and seascape of El Nido is a unique lifetime experience. From its ageless towering marble cliffs to its white sandy beaches with crystal clear water, many refer to it as paradise. There are over 50 beaches to discover, so many in fact that sometimes you feel as if you are on your own secluded private beach. You will also find enchanting lagoons with tranquil turquoise green water, caves that can take you to hidden beaches, and a very diverse variety of wildlife. |
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