Things To Do
in Aborlan
Aborlan is a rural municipality in Palawan, Philippines, located inland north of Puerto Princesa. It offers a laid-back pace, lush farmland, and easy access to the Mantalingajan Range and nearby nature reserves. The town is known for warm, friendly locals and a growing community-based tourism scene focused on sustainable visits.
It serves as a tranquil base for exploring southern Palawan away from the more crowded beaches.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Puerto Princesa International Airport and take a scenic drive to Aborlan. Check into your accommodation and enjoy a hearty breakfast to fuel your day. Take some time to relax and unwind after your journey.
Explore the local markets to taste fresh fruits and sample traditional Filipino street food. Visit the nearby Aborlan River for a relaxing boat ride, taking in the lush landscapes and vibrant culture. Don't forget to capture the stunning views along the way.
Dine at a local restaurant and savor authentic dishes while mingling with locals. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the beach as you listen to the soothing sound of the waves. Enjoy stargazing if the night is clear, as the sky lights up with countless stars.
After breakfast, prepare for an exciting island hopping adventure around the nearby islands. Board a local boat and set out to explore the pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Enjoy snorkeling among colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life.
Visit the beautiful Maruyan Island for a picnic lunch on the beach, where you can relax and soak up the sun. Continue your island hopping to discover hidden lagoons and secluded spots that are perfect for swimming. Capture breathtaking photos of the stunning landscapes.
Return to Aborlan and freshen up for dinner. Experience a traditional Filipino fiesta night, complete with cultural performances and lively music. Relish in the warm atmosphere and enjoy dancing with locals and fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🥤Local coffee or soft drink | $1-2 |
| 🚗One-way taxi ride within town | $2-4 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room per night | $15-25 |
| 🧭Fresh fruit per kilogram | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, scenic countryside with easy access to Mantalingajan Range
- Warm, welcoming locals and a slowly growing community-based tourism scene
- Limited nightlife and fewer urban amenities
- Smaller selection of restaurants and longer drives to major services
- "Kamusta po?" - Hello, how are you?
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Salamat po" - Thank you
- "Opo" - Yes (polite)
- "Hindi ko maintindihan." - I don't understand.
Places to Visit in Aborlan
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic rainforest ridges and lush valleys offering dramatic sunrises and misty silhouettes on clear mornings.
Golden light over orderly paddies with silhouettes of farmers and water reflections, ideal for wide-angle and silhouettes.
Colorful stalls, locals purchasing goods, and candid portrait opportunities with warm market lighting.
Sunsets over the Palawan Strait with boats and distant shoreline silhouettes; calm sea reflections for long-exposure shots.
Food in Aborlan
Aborlan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Citrus- or vinegar-cured raw fish salad with chili and onions; a Palawan staple found in seaside eateries and home kitchens.
Must-Try!
Freshly grilled fish seasoned simply, often enjoyed with rice and a squeeze of calamansi.
Tangy tamarind soup with fish, vegetables, and herbs; a comforting Palawan variant of a Filipino classic.
Chicken slow-cooked in soy, vinegar, garlic, and local aromatics; commonly served with rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Community market offering fresh seafood, produce, and prepared snacks; great for tasting everyday Palawan flavors.
Fruit skewers, coconut-based drinks, and light bites along the main roads as sunset markets come alive.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet elders and hosts politely with a smile; use respectful language (po/opo in Filipino when addressing elders).
Ask before taking photos of people, especially children. Some families may prefer not to be photographed.
Dress modestly in rural areas and respect local customs and ceremonies. Remove hats indoors where indicated and avoid loud or disruptive behavior.
Safety
Tipping in Aborlan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected in small local eateries. In nicer establishments, 10-15% is common if service is not included. In markets and casual stalls, rounding up is sufficient.
Cash (Philippine Peso) is the most reliable method in Aborlan. Some larger guesthouses and cafes may accept credit cards or mobile wallets, but many small shops are cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mostly sunny and hot days with lower humidity; ideal for outdoor hikes, village visits, and market photography. Occasionally dusty roads—carry water and sun protection.
Frequent rain and heavier humidity; trails can be muddy but landscapes are lush and photography has rich greens. Be prepared for sudden showers and plan flexible indoor activities.
Aborlan at Night
Hiking in Aborlan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gateway to Palawan’s dramatic rainforest; popular with hikers for rainforest scenery and wildlife encounters; requires a local guide and proper permits.
Accessible day hikes from Aborlan that offer lush forest views and panoramic prospects, suitable for experienced hikers with a guide.
Airports
How to reach Aborlan by plane.
Main gateway to Palawan; connects to Manila, Cebu, and other Philippine cities; typically the starting point for trips to Aborlan.
Regional airport serving northern Palawan; possible via road transfer to Palawan’s interior routes; longer travel time from Aborlan.
Gateway to Coron and western Palawan; alternative entry point for itineraries combining Aborlan with island hopping (longer transfer by land and boat).
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Includes Cuyonon and Palawanon heritage groups alongside migrant communities from other parts of the Philippines; Tagalog is widely spoken, with local languages also heard in rural areas.
A large portion of Aborlan’s population is engaged in agriculture, contributing to the town’s green landscape and seasonal markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed in towns and schools; community courts are common gathering spots.
Popular beach activity at coastal areas and resort beach fronts near Palawan towns.
Often pursued along coastlines and rivers, part of everyday outdoor recreation in Palawan.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aborlan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Palawan dishes revolve around seafood or meat, but you can request vegetable-based dishes, rice, and tofu when available. Ask for no fish stock, and rely on vegetable gravies or coconut-based dishes; carry light snacks if you have strict requirements.