Busuanga
The wild Calamianes - safari, Coron & remote islands · Palawan
Here is the insider secret: the famous town of Coron actually sits on a much bigger island called Busuanga, in the Calamian Islands of northern Palawan. The airport (USU) serves the whole region, so flying to Coron really means landing on Busuanga. Beyond the world-famous lagoon tours, Busuanga hides wilder wonders: African giraffes and zebras roaming Calauit Safari Park, the white sand of Black Island, and freshwater cascades in the interior.
Things to do in Busuanga
Calauit Safari Park
A surreal day out in northern Busuanga where free-roaming giraffes and zebras (brought from Africa in the 1970s) share the reserve with endemic Calamian deer. Day tours from Coron town ~PHP 1,500-2,500 incl. the long van ride, boat transfer and guide. Allow a full day.
Black Island (Malajon)
A dramatic black-rock island fringed with white sand, a sea cave and snorkeling, off the western coast - far less crowded than the standard Coron circuit. Dedicated boat tour ~PHP 1,800-3,000.
Concepcion Falls
A refreshing freshwater stop with cascades and pools, perfect after dusty island roads. Often paired with a Calauit itinerary. Entrance ~PHP 50-100.
Coron lagoons & hot springs
Since Coron sits on Busuanga, the classic circuit - Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon, Barracuda Lake - is on your doorstep, plus the saltwater Maquinit Hot Springs at sunset.
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🗓️ Best time to visit Busuanga
Dry season late November to May, with December to April the sweet spot for calm seas and reliable boat tours. June-October is lush and quiet with lower prices but afternoon downpours and occasional cancellations.
✈️ How to get to Busuanga
Fly into Francisco B. Reyes Airport (USU), ~45-60 min from Coron town, direct from Manila (~1 hr) and seasonally Cebu. Shared vans to town ~PHP 150-300. Fast ferries also connect Coron with El Nido (~3.5-4 hrs) and Manila (overnight).
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Frequently asked questions — Busuanga
Is Busuanga the same as Coron?
Not exactly. Busuanga is the large island; Coron town is the main port on its southeastern side; and Coron Island is a separate smaller island offshore with the famous lagoons. The airport (USU) serves the whole area, so "flying to Coron" means landing on Busuanga.
Are there really African animals on Busuanga?
Yes. Calauit Safari Park is home to free-roaming giraffes and zebras, descendants of African animals relocated here decades ago, alongside endemic Philippine species like the Calamian deer.
How many days should I spend in Busuanga?
At least 4-5 days: one for the Coron Island lagoons, one for Calauit Safari (it is far north), and a day for Black Island or reef snorkeling, plus arrival and departure buffers.
Do I need to book Calauit Safari in advance?
Best to arrange a tour or van the day before, since Calauit is on the opposite side of the island and involves a long van ride plus a short boat transfer. Day tours run ~PHP 1,500-2,500 per person.
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First time in Busuanga?
Quick essentials so you can hit the ground running.
Visa-free 30 days for most passports. Nearest Bureau of Immigration is in Puerto Princesa; sort extensions before heading to the Calamianes.
Philippine Peso (PHP). 1 USD = ~57 PHP, 1 EUR = ~62 PHP, 1 SGD = ~43 PHP. Cash is king on Busuanga; most small operators do not take cards.
No mandatory vaccines. Dengue is present - pack repellent. Drink bottled or filtered water. Bring motion-sickness tablets for boat days and reef-safe sunscreen.
ATMs in Coron Town can run dry on weekends and cap withdrawals (fees ~PHP 200-250). Withdraw enough before heading to Calauit, Concepcion or remote resorts, where there are none.
Welcoming and generally very safe. Main hazards are sea conditions and sun - use licensed boat operators, wear life jackets, and respect currents. Roads are rough in places.
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