Is Balabac safe for foreigners?
Balabac, as well as Puerto Princesa, Tubbataha Reef and the rest of the east side of Palawan (see map above) is located in Sulu Sea. On the other far end of this sea is Mindanao where Philippine army continues to battle against bandits. Despite this, Balabac remains safe for tourists.
What is Balabac known for?
Shoals and Sandbars The municipality of Balabac is composed of various islands located at the Balabac Strait. The strait is known for its shallow waters due to the presence of shoals and numerous sandbars. Balabac has the third and fourth longest sandbars in the Philippines.
Where is Balabac Island located?
Palawan island
Balabac, island, extreme southwestern Philippines. It is located about 19 miles (30 km) southwest of the southern tip of Palawan island and roughly twice that distance north of the island of Borneo.
How do you get to Balabac Palawan?
How to get to Balabac, Palawan
- In Puerto Princesa, ride a trike or jeep to San Jose Terminal.
- From San Jose Terminal, ride either a bus or van going to Rio Tuba.
- Van Schedules:
- Bus Schedules:
- From Rio Tuba, ride a passenger boat to Balabac.
- Same as above: In Puerto Princesa, ride a trike or jeep to San Jose Terminal.
Does Balabac have signal?
1. The best way to save when traveling to Balabac is to join a tour or large groups with people whom you can split the expenses with most especially with the boat rental. 2. Signal is sporadic in the islands.
How do I get to ONOK island?
Our van transport will pick you up from your lodge in Puerto Princesa. After 6 hours, you will reach the south port where a private boat will pick you up so you can start the island hopping to other islands in Balabac. Depending on your stay in Balabac (4 or 3 days), you will visit Onok the next day or the other.
How many islands are there in Balabac Palawan?
31 islands
Balabac is a group of 31 islands, many of which are totally uninhabited. You’ll find pink-sand beaches, vibrantly colored coral, a wide range of marine life, endemic mouse deer, and welcoming locals. But what you won’t find are many other foreigners.
How do you get to Balabac from Cebu?
There are 3 ways to get from Cebu City to Balabac by ferry, bus or plane
- Take the ferry from Cebu Pier 3 to Iloilo Pier.
- Take the ferry from Lapuz Wharf Iloilo to Puerto Princesa.
- Take the minivan from San Jose Terminal Puerto Princesa to Rio Tuba.
- Take the Local Boat from Rio Tuba Pier to Balabac Island Pier.
Is Balabac open to tourists?
Still a virgin, Balabac group of Islands is untouched by commercialization and tourism, making it stand out from among all other tropic paradises in Asia, if not in the world. It has recently opened to foreigners on March 2018 along with the approval of the tourism code.
Which is the best island in Balabac?
Today you will visit: Candaram Island, Canibungan Island, Candaraman Starfish Sand Bar and Onok Island. Onok island definitely is one of the best islands in Palawan, known for its extremely clear water. Your last day in Balabac is filled with adventure and stunning islands.
Is Balabac Palawan luxurious travel?
We don’t offer luxurious travel or a hotel, but an island life experience. Is Balabac Palawan For You? Good news! Balabac has already reopened to both local and international travelers who are fully vaccinated.
How long to stay in Balabac?
Due to the long commute time, it’s recommended to stay 5-7 days in Balabac, Palawan. Boat operators offer packages (including accommodation, island hopping and meals), so make sure to ask about the rates given your group size.