Are you interested in going on the Puerto Princesa Underground River tour? When discussing Palawan’s top destinations, El Nido and Coron often steal the spotlight. But tucked away in the heart of Puerto Princesa is one of the Philippines’ most extraordinary natural treasures — the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, home to the world-famous Underground River. If you’re visiting Palawan, this tour deserves a prime spot on your itinerary. Here’s why it’s a must-visit destination you shouldn’t miss.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site – Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour
The Puerto Princesa Underground River isn’t just any tourist spot — it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. It gained international recognition for its unique and breathtaking natural beauty, featuring a navigable underground river that stretches over 8 kilometers beneath a limestone karst mountain range.
This is one of the longest underground rivers in the world, flowing directly into the sea, making it a rare geological wonder you won’t find anywhere else.
What to Expect on the Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour?
The tour typically starts with a scenic boat ride from Sabang Beach to the river’s entrance. From there, you’ll hop onto a paddle boat steered by an experienced local guide, deep into the cave.
Inside, you’ll see:
- Majestic limestone rock formations
- Towering cathedral-like chambers
- Stalactites and stalagmites shaped like animals, vegetables, and famous landmarks
- Impressive bat colonies and other cave-dwelling creatures
The entire trip takes about 45 minutes inside the cave, and audio guides in different languages are provided so you can learn about the river’s history, geology, and ecosystem.
An Immersive Eco-Adventure
It’s not just the underground river that makes this tour memorable — it’s the whole experience. The river is part of the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a protected area of lush forests, limestone cliffs, and rich biodiversity. Before or after your cave tour, you can explore nature trails, spot monkeys, and monitor lizards and bird species roaming freely.
It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of Palawan’s natural environment.
Instagrammable Views Everywhere
This place is a photographer’s paradise, from the turquoise waters of Sabang Beach to the dramatic limestone formations at the river’s entrance. With its eerie lighting and unique rock formations, the cave offers unique photo opportunities you won’t find elsewhere in the Philippines.
It’s Accessible and Family-Friendly
What’s great about the Puerto Princesa Underground River is its suitability for all ages. The boat ride is calm, the pace is leisurely, and no strenuous activities are required. It’s perfect for:
- Families with kids
- Seniors looking for a laid-back adventure
- Couples and solo travelers seeking a unique nature escape
The river is about an hour and a half away from Puerto Princesa City, making it a convenient day tour while staying in the capital.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning a Palawan trip, the Puerto Princesa Underground River tour is something you absolutely can’t skip. Not every day you get to float inside one of the world’s longest navigable underground rivers, surrounded by fascinating natural formations and a rich ecosystem. This tour combines adventure, nature, history, and photography in one unforgettable experience.
Book your Underground River tour early, especially during the peak season (December to May). Slots fill up quickly due to environmental regulations limiting the number of daily visitors.
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Why Visit Palawan? 8 Top Reasons to Book That Flight
7 Best Palawan Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
Ultimate Guide to the 4 Best Island Hopping Tours in El Nido, Palawan
Photos from: iTravelRox
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