Busuanga
,Busuanga is a picturesque island located in the province of Palawan in the Philippines. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including turquoise waters, lush jungles and towering limestone cliffs. Busuanga offers a variety of outdoor activities such as snorkeling, diving, hiking and island hopping.
The island also has a laid-back atmosphere, making it a great destination for those looking to relax and unwind in a tropical paradise.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $80
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Busuanga Island
morning
:Start your day with a visit to Kayangan Lake, known for its stunning views and crystal-clear waters. Early morning is ideal for a refreshing swim and capturing breathtaking photos.
afternoon
:Head to Twin Lagoon for a unique experience of swimming between two lagoons. Enjoy a packed lunch while soaking in the sun and the beautiful scenery.
evening
:Wrap up your day with a sunset dinner at a beachside restaurant. Enjoy fresh seafood while listening to the sound of waves.
Relax on the Beach
morning
:Spend your morning at Malcapuya Island, known for its powdery white sand and clear waters. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
afternoon
:Snorkel in the vibrant coral reefs just off the shore to discover rich marine life. Indulge in a picnic lunch on the beach.
evening
:Return to Busuanga and enjoy a beach bonfire. Relax with local snacks and make memories while watching the stars.
Highlights
Good
- Stunning natural beauty, including pristine beaches and clear waters.
- Rich marine biodiversity, making it a popular destination for diving and snorkeling.
- A variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and island hopping.
- Welcoming and friendly local culture with unique traditions.
- Less commercialized compared to other tourist destinations in the Philippines.
Bad
- Limited access to modern amenities and infrastructure.
- Transportation can be challenging, with limited public transport options.
- Potential issues with internet connectivity in certain areas.
- Some areas may experience overcrowding during peak tourist seasons.
- Environmental concerns, such as waste management and coral reef protection.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Snorkeling at Coron Bay
Explore the vibrant underwater world and colorful marine life in Coron Bay through snorkeling.
Island hopping to Malcapuya Island
Discover the pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters of Malcapuya Island while enjoying various water activities like swimming and sunbathing.
Scuba diving at Barracuda Lake
Experience the unique diving opportunities at Barracuda Lake, known for its thermocline and impressive underwater rock formations.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Busuanga with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Kayangan Lake
Offers stunning views and clear turquoise waters, often considered the cleanest lake in Asia.
Coron Bay
Known for its picturesque limestone cliffs, crystal clear waters, and vibrant marine life, making it a great spot for photography.
Mt. Tapyas
Provides a panoramic view of Coron town, neighboring islands, and the surrounding coastline.
Barracuda Lake
Features unique underwater rock formations and clear, emerald-colored waters ideal for photography.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Kinilaw
A popular dish made of raw fish marinated in vinegar, calamansi, and spices. It's a must-try for seafood lovers. Best place to try: Kawayanan Grill in Coron town.
Must-Try!
Adobo
Considered the national dish of the Philippines, adobo features meat (often chicken or pork) marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic, then slowly simmered. You can savor this dish at the Santino's Grill in Coron.
Lato Salad
Lato, a type of seaweed, is often tossed with tomatoes, onions, and a mix of calamansi juice and vinegar, creating a refreshing and unique salad. Look for this dish at the Bistro Coron.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Busuanga better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Coron Public Market
This is a bustling market where you can find a variety of fresh produce, seafood, and local snacks. Don't miss the opportunity to sample street food like grilled fish, skewered meats, and fresh tropical fruits from the vendors lining the streets.
Lualhati Park
Located in Coron town, this park comes alive with food stalls in the evenings, offering an array of grilled street food, local delicacies, and refreshing beverages. It's a great spot to experience authentic Filipino street food culture.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect for elders
In Busuanga, it is important to show respect to elders by using polite language and gestures, and by acknowledging their wisdom and knowledge.
Conservative dress code
To show respect for the local culture, it is advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or interacting with locals in Busuanga.
Customary greetings
Learning and using traditional Filipino greetings such as 'Magandang araw' (Good day) and 'Kamusta po kayo?' (How are you?) can demonstrate cultural respect and politeness.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Busuanga with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Busuanga, Philippines, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated. It is customary to leave a 10-15% tip at restaurants, especially if the service was good. Tipping tour guides and hotel staff is also common to show appreciation for their services.
Payment
In Busuanga, Philippines, cash is predominantly used for transactions. Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and larger establishments, but it's advisable to carry enough cash for smaller vendors and establishments. ATMs are available in the main town of Coron for cash withdrawals.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Busuanga.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season (October to June)
Best time to visit Busuanga as it offers sunny weather, calm seas, and great diving and snorkeling conditions.
Wet season (July to September)
Expect heavy rains, occasional typhoons, and rough seas during this time. Some tourist activities may be affected.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Mount Pungalungan
A popular hiking destination in Busuanga with a moderate trail leading to stunning views of the surrounding islands and the sea.
Mount Nambajoy
This hike offers a challenging trail with panoramic views from the summit, showcasing the lush landscapes of Busuanga.
Mount Busuanga
The highest peak in Busuanga, offering breathtaking views and a variety of trails suitable for different skill levels.
Coron Highlands
A more complex hiking area with diverse trails, from easy walks to challenging hikes, allowing exploration of the natural beauty and wildlife.
Kayangan Lake Trek
A short hike leading to one of the most beautiful lakes in the Philippines, with clear waters surrounded by limestone cliffs.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Busuanga through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Busuanga by plane.
Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS)
The main airport serving Puerto Princesa, Palawan, located approximately 118 kilometers from Busuanga.
Calapan Airport (CPP)
An airport located in Calapan City, Mindoro, around 130 kilometers from Busuanga.
Caticlan Airport (MPH)
Also known as Godofredo P. Ramos Airport, located about 143 kilometers from Busuanga, serves the Boracay area.
Roxas Airport (RXS)
Located approximately 155 kilometers from Busuanga, serving the city of Roxas in Mindoro.
San Jose Airport (SJI)
Located roughly 160 kilometers from Busuanga, it serves San Jose, Occidental Mindoro.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Culturally Mixed Population
Busuanga has a diverse population with a mixture of indigenous groups, migrants, and settlers from various regions of the Philippines.
Tagbanua Tribe
The Tagbanua people are one of the indigenous groups in Busuanga, known for their rich cultural heritage and traditions.
Migrant Settlers
Many migrants from other regions, particularly from Luzon and the Visayas, have settled in Busuanga for work and economic opportunities.
Tourism Workers
A growing demographic of residents engaged in tourism-related jobs due to the area's development as a tourist destination.
Youth Population
A significant portion of the population consists of young individuals, including students and young professionals.
Senior Citizens
Older adults who have spent most of their lives in the area, contributing to the community's cultural and historical knowledge.
The Soul of Busuanga
Discover the essence of Busuanga through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Diving
Busuanga is renowned for its stunning dive sites, attracting both amateur and professional divers to explore its rich marine biodiversity.
Snorkeling
The crystal-clear waters surrounding Busuanga make it a popular destination for snorkeling, allowing visitors to view the vibrant underwater life without deep diving.
Kayaking
The beautiful lagoons and bays around Busuanga are perfect for kayaking, providing a serene environment for exploration.
Island Hopping
Island hopping is a popular activity in Busuanga, allowing tourists to visit various nearby islands and enjoy their unique landscapes and beaches.
Fishing
Fishing, both for leisure and sport, is a prominent activity in Busuanga, with opportunities to catch various species in its rich waters.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While seafood is prevalent in local cuisine, many restaurants and cafes offer vegetable-based dishes, fresh salads, and plant-based alternatives. Vegetarian and vegan travelers can find suitable options at most dining establishments, especially those that serve international cuisine.
Gluten-free Options
Some restaurants in Busuanga offer gluten-free choices on their menus. It's advisable for visitors with gluten intolerance to communicate their dietary requirements to the staff, who are generally accommodating and willing to provide suitable alternatives.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Busuanga with these cultural adventures.
