Puerto Princesa, Philippines
b. From San Jose Terminal, Puerto Princesa City, take a van going to Bataraza Terminal. Fare is at Php 350.00 and the trip takes four to five hours. Some van operators travel directly from Puerto Princesa City to Rio Tuba. The trip takes five to six hours with the fare ranging from Php 450.00 to Php 500.00. First trip is usually at 4:00 AM. Last, trip on the other hand, is around 5:00 PM depending on the passengers.
c. If getting dropped off at Bataraza Terminal, transfer to a van going to Rio Tuba. The trip takes less than two hours and the fare is at Php 150.00.
d. from Rio Tuba, take the passenger boat that travels at noon time (usually around 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM) to Balabac. The sea travel takes three to four hours. Fare is at Php 450.00.
2. Puerto Princesa City to Buliluyan Port (for Balabac Joiner Tours)
a. From Puerto Princesa City, take a van going to Bataraza. Fare is at Php 350.00.
b. From Bataraza, transfer to another van going to Buliluyan Port. This will take a travel time of an hour or two with Php 150.00 fare.
*There are no passenger boats traveling from Buliluyan Port to Balabac. Consequently, Balabac island tourist operators prefer to pick up the guests from that port.
Tip: For a less hassle trip from Puerto Princesa City to Rio Tuba or Buliluyan port, you may contact Kuya Popoy (mobile: +63 920 3206 567). He can arrange the trip and pick the guests up from the airport or from the hotel.
1. Swim into its crystal clear waters
2. Beach bum into the pristine beaches with the finest and whitest sand
3. Go on an island hopping activity
4. Swim with turtles and watch the dolphins, sting rays and Balabac crocodiles (if you’ll get lucky)
5. Admire the mangroves in some islands
6. Snorkel, dive and freedive – bringing your own equipment is highly suggested
7. Shop for Malaysian products in Marabon
8. Visit the century-old Cape Melville Lighthouse
9. ‘Mangawil‘ (traditional way of fishing)
10. Catch the gorgeous sunrise and sunsets in the islands
11. Experience the Molbog culture