Puerto Princesa Underground River In Palawan – A Complete Guide

Posted on Last updated: 4 March 2024

Categories Philippines

The Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour was something we didn’t expect to be so beautiful. Thankful that we chose to visit, here’s all the info you need.

Table of Contents

How To Get To The Puerto Princesa Underground River

The Puerto Princesa Underground River is actually located in the town of Sabang.

It takes around 2 hours to drive from Puerto Princesa City.

The best option is to book a Puerto Princesa: Underground River Full-Day Trip in advance. This way everything from pick up, to lunch and fees are included.

The Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour is a whole day experience starting from Puerto Princesa City. It’s not offered as a half-day tour due to the 2 hour journey each way.

For those short on time, or that prefer everything to be organised for them, there are some awesome tours on  Get Your Guide  available to book in advance.

Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour Prices

There are many packages available for the Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour.

Most range from 1,500 – 2,500 pesos per person.

All underground river tours should also include hotel transfers and a buffet lunch.

If you’re looking for a trusted tour operator to book with, we can recommend Corazon Travel & Tours .

Some tours do not include the environment fee of 150 pesos per person. This is to be paid upon arrival at the underground river so double check with your tour operator whether this is included or not beforehand.

The operating hours are between 06:30 AM – 04:30 PM.

For most tours, children aged 3 years or below are free. Child rate applies to children ages 4-9. Adult rate applies to children ages 10 and above.

What’s Included

  • Roundtrip van transfers with A/C from any hotel within Puerto Princesa  
  • Licensed Tour Guide
  • Buffet lunch
  • Fees and rentals
  • Terminal fee  
  • Cave entrance fee (permit)  
  • Audio permit / device    
  • Wharfage assessment
  • Underground River tour

Most tours also include bottled water but it’s always recommended to take your own!

Best Time To visit Puerto Princesa Underground River

The Puerto Princesa Underground River is open for visitors year-round but the best time to visit is during the dry season when the weather is usually good and the ocean is calm.

The dry/peak season is from November to May and if you are looking to avoid the crowds, the Christmas and New Year holidays are a particular busy time.

During the months of February and March is when temperatures are at around a pleasant 27°C and there is very little rainfall.

What To Pack

Photography Camera

Reusable Water Bottle

Lightweight Rain Jacket

‌ Quick Dry Towel

Lifeproof Phone Case

Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour Underground River Palawan Underground River Tour Underground River Philippines

Puerto Princesa Underground River History

In 2010, exploring environmentalists and geologists discovered that the underground river had a second floor. Hence there are small waterfalls actually inside the cave.

Along with this discovery, they also found a cave dome, rock formations and a deep water hole in the river. As well as some large bats and marine creatures.

Consequently, in 2011, the underground river was named as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. Making it the pride of not only Puerto Princesa but also the Philippines.

The Puerto Princesa Subterranean National Park has been a Unesco World Heritage Site since 1999.

Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour Underground River Palawan Underground River Tour Underground River Philippines

What To Expect On The Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour

It takes 2 hours to drive to Sabang Wharf from Puerto Princesa.

Stopping en route to view other natural attractions, such as Elephant Mountain.

From Sabang Wharf you catch a small 6 seater catamaran just 15 minutes around the coastline arriving at Sabang Beach. Which is also the entrance to the cave.

The Puerto Princesa underground river tour lasts approximately 45 minutes and takes you into the first 1.5 kilometres of the Underground River cave.

You will also experience the beauty of stalagmites and stalactites, which took thousands of years to form, whilst also mixing with the thousands of bats that inhabit the cave.

On the outside the water is clear and the surroundings are beautiful. Whilst on the inside the dark cave creates an eerie yet interesting atmosphere.

Definitely one of the best things to do in the Philippines and a spot to add to your Philippines bucket list!

Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour Underground River Palawan Underground River Tour Underground River Philippines

Where To Stay In Puerto Princesa

Best Western Plus The Ivywall Hotel

Featuring free WiFi access and a restaurant, Best Western Plus The Ivywall Hotel offers accommodation in Puerto Princesa , 4.3 miles from Honda Bay.

The hotel has a fitness centre and indoor pool, and guests can enjoy a drink at the bar. Free private parking is also available on site.

All rooms come with air conditioning and a flat-screen TV with cable channels.

Every room comes with a private bathroom and a bidet. Bathrobes and slippers are provided. 

Operating a 24-hour front desk, the friendly staff can assist guests with laundry/dry cleaning services, currency exchange and luggage storage.

Massage and transport services are also available upon request.

Hue Hotels and Resorts

Offering an outdoor swimming pool and a restaurant, Hue Hotels and Resorts Puerto Princesa Managed by HII is set in Puerto Princesa City.

Free private parking is available, and free WiFi is available throughout the property.

All rooms come with air conditioning, a cable TV and a personal safe. A hairdryer and shower facility with free toiletries are provided in the en suite bathroom. 

Guests can enjoy daily buffet breakfast while Matiz Restaurant is also open for all day dining.

Golden Pension House

Set 5 miles from Honda Bay, Golden Pension House, Palawan provides accommodation with a garden, a terrace and a 24-hour front desk for your convenience.

Both WiFi and private parking are accessible at the bed and breakfast free of charge. 

Offering a patio, every unit comes with air conditioning, a dining area and a seating area with a satellite flat-screen TV. There is also a private bathroom with bidet and free toiletries. 

An Asian breakfast is available every morning at Golden Pension House, Palawan.

For more places to stay in Puerto Princesa, you can check the latest prices on Booking.com .

Planning Your Trip

Book your flight.

Use  Skyscanner  to find a cheap flight. 

They search websites and airlines around the globe to find you the best possible routes and prices.

Book Your Accommodation

Use  Booking.com  to find the best accommodation deals.

They consistently return the cheapest rates on everything from guesthouses to hotels for all of your budget needs.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

Use SafetyWing to find the best travel insurance for you.

They provide travel and medical incident insurance built specifically for digital nomads.

Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations.

Book Your Tours & Activities

Use GetYourGuide to book your activities in advance.

They sell the best tours, excursions and activities to attractions around the world.

Conveniently book, download and access your tickets on the move all from your mobile. 

Book Your Rental Car

Use RentalCars.com to find the best deals on rental cars in the area.

They compare all major car rental companies and allow you to easily book the perfect vehicle for your trip.

Buy Those Last Minute Bits

Use Amazon to buy everything you need for your adventure.

They offer next day delivery and you can use my travel packing checklist to make sure you haven’t forgotten anything.

Pin It For Later

Underground River In Puerto Princesa Guide

Wednesday 29th of January 2020

We are travelling to palawan on april and we want to take the underground river tour. We are about 32 pax(indians). Can you give us your best price all in.packagr and if we can request a special buffer indian food,vege and non vege. Thank you so much

Charlie Pauly

Wednesday 5th of February 2020

Hey, we aren't actually a booking site. We are just a travel blog writing about our experiences. However you can book a trusted tour here: Puerto Princesa Underground River Day Tour

Monday 20th of January 2020

SO I am a bit confused, i have been reading a few reviews/tips and I don't quite understand, so if I do a tour guide or book a trip under a tour guide, like idk, say online from tripadvisor's link..it includes the UNesco fee correct, but if i book something under a private tour thru someone local (in Boracay we had locals walk towards us if we wanted to book thru them for xxx activies) thru them we have to get a separate UNESCO slip (fee)? I will be having my family of 7 with me which includes children as young as 6 with. I would like to try to get the best lowest cost but i want to be able to do the tour as i also read that the gov'mt has limited amount of tours per day.

Hey Anna, what you've said is correct. If you book through a trusted tour operator then most include all fees. However some of the local tours will simply charge you for a boat and leave you to pay the fees as you arrive.

We recommend double checking with whoever you book with beforehand, and if you're looking for a trusted tour operator we can recommend this one: Puerto Princesa Underground River Day Tour

Khyienne Zairhyze Atienza

Tuesday 17th of December 2019

Hi! Did you book the tour as an entire group or did you join one?

Thursday 19th of December 2019

We booked as an entire group. :)

Rosela Espallardo

Tuesday 12th of November 2019

Hello, pls can I ask where we can book 1,500 of underground package tour fare? Thank u hooping your reply soon

Wednesday 20th of November 2019

Hey, we were actually on a pre arranged group trip but if you ask at any of the local tour shops the price should be negotiable.

If you're looking for a trusted tour operator we can recommend this one: Puerto Princesa Underground River Day Tour

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser .

City tours

  • Puerto Princesa Underground River

The Puerto Princesa Underground River is one of the most famous and popular attractions in the Philippines. This day tour is the main reason people stop at Puerto Princesa before heading to other parts of Palawan, such as El Nido and Coron. Declared both as a UNESCO world heritage site and one of the new 7 wonders of nature, visiting this awe-inspiring cave system is something you will remember forever. This tour is included in all of our Puerto Princesa packages , as well as other interesting attractions in the area, such as Firefly watching and Honda Bay island hopping.

The Subterranean River national park lies amidst the jungles not far from Sabang beach, to the north of Puerto Princesa. It is an elaborate cave system, full of unique rock formations, stalactites and stalagmites. Since the river connects directly to the ocean, a one of a kind phenomenon, an extremely diverse ecosystem thrives inside. Unfortunately, since itā€™s very dark, you are most likely to only see bats. So, the main attraction is the huge caverns and halls resembling a massive cathedral, making this place one of the largest and most elaborate cave systems accessible to the general public.

Underground River Tour Quick Facts

  • Prefect for : Nature lovers, Families, Groups.
  • Best time to visit : November to May.
  • Tour packages include : Hotel Pickup, lunch, transportation, guide.
  • Starting point : Hotel pickup.
  • Duration : Half day.

How to get to the Underground River

The easiest way to visit the Underground riverĀ  is by renting a van and going from Puerto Princesa. Itā€™s 1.5 hours drive to Sabang, and youā€™ll be picked up from your hotel early in the morning. Since this tour is very popular, itā€™s better to get there early to avoid long waiting times. Even though booking a private van is possible, we strongly encourage taking this tour as part of a group. It doesnā€™t only make the experience cheaper, but also much more fun.

Another option is getting to Sabang beach the day before and spending the night there. You can then have a full day of exploring this area, which has a few other attractions as well. Sabang is mostly about nature ā€“ there are a few mountain hiking trails and the beach itself is quite nice. Since there are quite a few advantages to staying there instead of the city, this is something you can consider. Read our reviews of Daluyon and Sheridan , the two best resorts in Sabang, and it will give you a better idea if this a place youā€™d like to stay at.

Lastly, you can even visit this place directly from El Nido by renting a private van. This isn’t ideal as the van ride takes 5 hours, meaning youā€™ll have to leave El Nido around 4AM. Still, if you have an evening flight from Puerto Princesa, itā€™s certainly possible to spend half a day in the underground river before the van drops you off at the airport. Taking the opposite route however, is highly popular, as many tourists choose to continue directly to El Nido after completing their day tour. This means youā€™ll arriveĀ  El Nido around 8PM, and wouldnā€™t need to spend an extra night in Puerto Princesa.

What to do?

The underground river tour itself is highly regulated and fairly schematic ā€“ there isnā€™t a lot of room for customization and special requests. You can scroll a bit further down to see the sample itinerary for the half day tour. Whether you choose to join a group or take a private tour, youā€™ll be picked up from your hotel and escorted by a local guide the whole time.

As for what you should bring with you, our advice is to pack light. Most chances are you wonā€™t get wet, so thereā€™s no need to wear a swimming suit, but bringing a towel is always a good idea. Wear comfortable shoes instead of flipflops, and bring sunscreen and water. While waiting at Sabang for the boat ride to the underground river, youā€™ll have plenty of shops around you ā€“ so you can easily find a place to buy water and snacks if you need to.

The national park is a protected ecological site, so please treat it with it respect. Avoid littering and do not touch anything, especially once inside the cave. Introducing bacteria and substances from the outside can severely damage the delicate ecosystem inside. While waiting in the jungle for the kayak to the cave, youā€™ll likely see macaque monkeys ā€“ do not provoke them and try to keep a safe distance as they can get aggressive when feeling threatened. In general, please make sure to always follow the safety instructions and keep constant attention to your guide throughout this trip.

How does this tour package fit into your vacation plan?

Most people who visit Palawan prefer to spend as much time as possible at El Nido and Coron . These 2 locations are simply much more beautiful and special than Puerto Princesa. That said, Puerto Princesa still has its own special charm and of course the underground river is something you would not want to miss. Moreover, flights to Puerto Princesa are cheaper and much easier to find.

For those reasons, we believe the ideal plan for anyone visiting Palawan is to fly to Puerto Princesa and spend a single night there. Then, take the day tour to the underground caves in the morning, before continuing to El Nido directly from there. This is especially recommended for larger groups and families, since renting the private van would become cheaper.

If you prefer to stay an extra night or 2 in Puerto Princesa, thatā€™s of course fine as well. There are plenty of fun attractions and tours both in the city area and near Sabang beach as well. These parts of Palawan are great, especially for families with small children, and you can easily spend a couple of days touring this place. In any case, the underground river is the pinnacle of our Puerto Princesa tour packages, which can all be booked as a standalone service or as part of a larger Palawan tour package .

We use cookies to ensure that you get the best experience on our website.

PALAWAN INSIDER

Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour 2023: Your Guide to Worldā€™s Longest Underground River

Damien Choong

  • October 28, 2023

Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour.jpg2

Planning to visit Puerto Princesa Underground River? In this guide, we will walk you through cruising Palawanā€™s world-famous subterranean river and highlight the latest fees, how to get there, the best time to visit, and more.

Dubbed the ā€œCity in the Forest,ā€ Puerto Princesa City is the capital city of Palawan known for the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park (PPSRNP) or the Puerto Princesa Underground River (PPUR). The PPUR (as called by locals) is located approximately 76 kilometers northwest of Puerto Princesa in the Saint Paul Mountain Range, a 5-mile stretch of the Cabayugan River that features a limestone cave.

The national park is one of the worldā€™s most impressive cave systems, comprising the longest navigable underground river ever recorded stretching 8.2 kilometers. Being one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is truly a tourism pride of the Philippines.

šŸ‘‰ Book your Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour here! šŸ‘ˆ

WHAT'S IN THIS POST?

How to Get to Puerto Princesa Underground River

āž”ļøfrom puerto princesa city.

Book your van transfer from Puerto Princesa City to Puerto Princesa Underground River. They can pick you up anywhere from the airport or hotel within the city. The fare is 350 PHP (~6 USD). Pickup time will be between 7:00 to 7:30 AM. Travel time from the city proper to the Sabang town is 1 hour and 30 minutes. There are buses to Sabang, but this is the easiest and most advisable option.

šŸ‘‰ Book your van transfer from Puerto Princesa to Sabang here! šŸ‘ˆ

āž”ļøFrom El Nido

Book your van transfer from El Nido to Puerto Princesa and let them know your pickup location. Make sure to take the first trip (5:00 AM) as it will be a 4-hour travel time. Pickup time will begin at 4:30 AM. The fare is 700 PHP (12 USD). Tell the driver to drop you off at the terminal of Barangay Salvacion.

Then book your transfer from Salvacion to Sabang town in advance via Bloomfield Transport (0917-1450-055). The fare is 200 PHP (4 USD). The estimated time of arrival from El Nido to Salvacion will be 8:30 AM.Ā 

The van transfer from Puerto Princesa city proper to Sabang town leaves at 7:00 AM. Make sure to coordinate with your van driver in El Nido regarding your trip to Salvacion to keep track of their travel time.

šŸ‘‰ Book your van transfer from El Nido to Puerto Princesa here! šŸ‘ˆ

āž”ļøFrom Coron

Book a ferry from Coron to Puerto Princesa City. 2GO Travel has one weekly trip on this route every Saturday, which costs about 2,600 PHP (~46 USD), while Fortwally Travel and Tours has 1 daily trip, which costs about 4,400 PHP (~77 USD), including van transfers. The travel time from Coron to Puerto Princesa takes roughly 12-13 hours. From Puerto Princesa city proper, take a private van transfer to Puerto Princesa Underground River.

šŸ‘‰ Book your ferry from Coron to Puerto Princesa here! šŸ‘ˆ

āž”ļøFrom Port Barton

Book your van transfer from Port Barton to Puerto Princesa City. It costs 440 PHP (~7.5 USD) per person. The travel time takes approximately 2 hours. Tell the driver to drop you off at the terminal of Barangay Salvacion.

You will also need to book your transfer from Salvacion to Sabang town in advance via Bloomfield Transport (0917-1450-055), with a fare of PHP 200 (~ US$ 4).

šŸ‘‰ Book your van transfer from Port Barton to Puerto Princesa here! šŸ‘ˆ

Puerto Princesa Underground River Fees

To be able to explore the cave, you must first secure a permit at the PPUR office in Sabang. Make sure to present your valid ID upon paying the following fees:

  • Entrance Fee ā€“ 500 PHP (~9 USD)
  • Audio Device ā€“ 85 PHP (~1.50 USD)
  • Environmental Fee ā€“ 150 PHP (~3 USD)
  • Motorboat rental (good for 6 pax) ā€“ 1,130 PHP (~20 USD)

Since we were a group of 4, each paid 282.50 PHP (~5 USD) for the boat rental.

A packaged PPUR Tour would cost around 1,900 PHP (~33 USD), including the boat transfer, tour guide fees, lunch, pickup to and from your hotel, and other fees.

Puerto Princesa Underground River Opening Hours

The PPUR office in Sabang is open daily at 6:30 AM to accept and secure permits, with a 2:00 AM cut-off time. Visiting the cave starts at 9:00 AM, and all boats must be back to the wharf before 4:30 PM.

What to Bring to Your Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour

Here is a recommended checklist of the things you need to bring on your tour:

  • Sandals or water shoes
  • Water bottle
  • Waterproof phone case
  • Microfiber towel
  • Mosquito repellent spray/ lotion

Visiting Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour

Once you have secured your permit, there is a waiting time of at least 30 minutes to prepare your assigned motorboat which will take you to the Saint Paul Mountain Range. It will take at least 15 minutes to get there, depending on the weather conditions.

The long wait will be worth it as soon as you touch down to the beach area of Saint Paul Mountain. You will be welcomed with a picturesque view of mountains with the unspoiled beauty of intact old-growth forests. The areas are also surrounded with fine white sand, so, wearing sandals or aqua shoes is advisable to wash them off easily.

Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour

There will be a 5-minute trail going to the cave entrance, where free-running monkeys and monitor lizards (bayawak) are wandering freely around the forest. Make sure that your belongings, especially your phone, are well secured. The monkeys are prone to snatching random items from the tourist.

Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour18

Additionally, the caretakers of the park will also prohibit you from petting or feeding the animals. According to them, they need to live in their natural habitat to source their own food. Bringing plastic items is also prohibited as the monkeys take this idea as a container for food.

Approaching the cave entrance indicates the highlight of your tour. A guided paddle boat will take you inside the majestic cave system of the underground river, as the boatman officially welcomes you to the tour.

Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour

Now, this is the part where a staff will activate your audio device. It contains pre-recorded information about the things that you must know about the cave.Ā 

Fun fact: The audio device was introduced in early 2015, made especially for tourists who cannot fully understand the English language. You can switch and select up to 11 languages which include English, Tagalog, Chinese (Mandarin), Nihongo (Japanese), Deutsch (German), Spanish, Korean, Italian, French, Arab, and Russian.

You will get to see the spectacular rock formations of stalactites and stalagmites shaped like vegetables, fruits, animals, and even the image of Jesus Christ and a dome-like cathedral. As you enter various tunnels, you will also witness thousands of fruit bats either flying around the cave or nestled together as they sleep in an upside-down manner.

Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour11

Initially, the boatman will also share some funny jokes to lighten up the mood (Hereā€™s a tip; ask them where the tiny droplets inside the cave are coming from, and they will give a humorous response about it šŸ˜‰).

The entire exploration lasted for about an hour. As our paddle boat exited the cave, you will realize how amazing the wonders of nature can build oneā€™s imagination. It was an adventure with a therapeutic effect.

Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour7

After the delightful experience, we were given an extra 15 minutes to freshen up, take some pictures, and relax for a bit before we headed to our motorboat to drive us back to Sabang Wharf. They also offer a photo souvenir for 220 PHP (~4 USD).

Around the town, there are restaurants that offer buffet lunches which would range from 350 PHP (~6 USD) per person. Youā€™ll get to enjoy selections of dishes, fresh seafood, grilled meat, and a lot more.Ā 

They also offered a well-known delicacy in Palawan called tamilok, a type of woodworm taken out of rotten mangrove trees. We bought a small serving for 150 PHP (~2.5 USD), and it was an experience worth trying, best consumed when dipped in vinegar.Ā 

We managed to get the last trip (4:00 PM) from Sabang to the city proper via Bloomfield Transport for 350 PHP (~6 USD) and told the driver to drop us off at our hotel.

Note: If you have availed your PPUR tour package from a travel agency, there could be a side trip tour to other travel destinations near Sabang, such as Ugong Rock Adventures, Sabang X-Zipline, and Cacaoyan Forest Park Restaurant. Tourists have the option to visit them or head straight to their respective hotels.

Best Time to Visit Puerto Princesa Underground River

The best time to visit the PPUR is between February and May during the dry season. Expect some delay in boat transfers to Saint Paul Mountain Range between the rainy months of June and November, as the PPUR office prohibits the boats from traveling during stronger wind conditions.

However, cancellation of tours can be possible due to inclement weather conditions. You may check the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park & World Heritage Site Facebook page for daily announcements.

Where to Stay in Puerto Princesa

  • Princesa Garden Island Resort and Spa ( Check room rates! )
  • Carpe Diem Villas and Resort ( Check room rates! )
  • Sunlight Guest Hotel ( Check room rates! )
  • Cleon Villas Pension ( Check room rates! )
  • Astoria Palawan ( Check room rates! )

Your Complete Guide to Palawan

Normally in PPUR tours, there has always been a debate between doing a DIY tour or availing a travel package. While the DIY option can save you a few hundred pesos, you must do everything out of scratch, such as securing your own permit and booking your own van transfers.

As a former travel coordinator, I personally recommend availing a packaged tour as it covers everything you need. We advocate giving our tourists the best experience while being comfortable during their travel.

But if you are always down for a great adventure and enjoy ā€˜doing what the Romans do,ā€™ then a DIY tour might be the one for you.

If you are still planning for your trip to Palawan, check out our range of travel guides:

  • Best Things to Do in Coron, Palawan
  • Best Things to Do in San Vicente, Palawan
  • Top Tourist Spots in Coron, Palawan
  • Top Tourist Spots in El Nido, Palawan
  • El Nido Tours A, B, C, D: Which Island Hopping Tour in El Nido Is the Best?

Got questions about your trip to Palawan? Leave them in the comments!

For updates, follow PALAWAN INSIDER on Facebook and Instagram !

Share this:

Damien Choong

Damien Choong

Damien considers himself as a "š˜‰š˜¶š˜­š˜¢š˜¬š˜¦š˜Æš˜ŗš˜° š˜£š˜ŗ š˜£š˜­š˜°š˜°š˜„, š˜£š˜¶š˜µ š˜—š˜¢š˜­š˜¢š˜øš˜¦š˜ÆĢƒš˜° š˜£š˜ŗ š˜©š˜¦š˜¢š˜³š˜µ." He is a Puerto Princesa City-based research/social media writer, who enjoys traveling around Palawan province whether it's for work or leisure.

When he is not writing, you can see him coaching Q&A and Personality Development to PalaweƱa delegates joining beauty pageants, such as Miss Philippines Earth and Binibining Pilipinas.

Get PALAWAN INSIDER's FREE monthly newsletter!

Subscribe to our monthly newsletter. We won't spam you. Promise :)

I accept the Privacy Policy

Related Posts

Coral Garden in Coron, Palawan

Coron Super Ultimate Tour 2023: Barracuda Lake, Coral Garden, Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon, and More!

  • November 29, 2023

Big Lagoon - El Nido Tour A

El Nido Island Hopping Tour A: Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and Seven Commandos Beach

  • November 27, 2023

Conception Cathedral - Puerto Princesa City Tour

Puerto Princesa City Tour 2023: A Must Sightseeing Tour in Palawanā€™s Capital

  • October 26, 2023

A travel & food blog

Kat in Puerto Princesa Underground River

UPDATED Guide to Puerto Princesa Underground River, Palawan

The Puerto Princesa Underground RiverĀ  is one of the things you shouldnā€™t miss when youā€™re in Palawan . It is part of the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New7Wonders of Nature .

Itā€™s one of the longest underground rivers in the world. That in itself is an amazing feature. The underground river flows directly under the St. Paul Mountain Range. The cave system inside stretches for 24 km and the river itself goes for 8.2 km.

Regular tours cover the first 1.5 km of the underground river ā€” from here, regular-sized boats canā€™t pass thru the narrow passageways. Itā€™s possible to tour the entire length of underground river by securing a special permit. Inside, youā€™ll be able to paddle your way across the river and appreciate the natural rock formations and wildlife.

Please enable JavaScript

Humix

My Experience at PPS Underground River Tour

How to get to puerto princesa underground river, when is the best time to visit, how to do a diy tour, puerto princesa underground river package tours, things to bring, things to know before you go, where to stay in puerto princesa, what to read next:.

Iā€™d been to Palawan a couple of times but I havenā€™t had the time to stop at Puerto Princesa City. After my 3-day island hopping trip to Balabac , I decided to stay here for a few more days.

I booked a packaged joiner tour to the Puerto Princesa Underground River via Travelicious Tours Palawan . Yes, itā€™s possible to do it DIY and you can save a little, but a lot of people will tell you it might not be worth the hassle. Each guest must secure a permit to enter the underground river, and a travel agency does all the paperwork for you.

A service van picked me up at about 7:30 AM in my accommodation. Once all joiner guests are picked up, we were ready to go.

We made a few stops before going to the Puerto Princesa Underground River. Our guide told us these side trips help fill in the waiting time before our schedule slot. Usually, waiting time is 1-2 hours.

First is the Buenavista Viewdeck, which has an overlooking view of Ulugan Bay. Thereā€™s also a souvenir shop where you can buy pasalubong such as keychains, bracelets and other local products.

Group shot at Buenavista Viewdeck

Next, we stopped in Sabang for optional activities including zipline and mangrove tour. My friends decided to wait in one of the cottages, while I hopped on a boat for the mangrove tour. It was actually quite nice, since we get to sit quietly in the boat while our guide pointed out the species of mangroves in the area and wildlife including snakes.

Mangrove tour in Sabang

We then head over to a restaurant for a buffet lunch featuring local food. The buffet lunch was good ā€” there was a lot of choices and food is decent. We were all happy with it.

Alas, it was time to head over to Sabang Wharf where we took a motorized boat for 15-20 minutes to arrive at Entrance Beach.

View from Sabang wharf

The Entrance Beach is beautiful, by the way. There are gigantic karsts similar to that in El Nido and the beach is a beautiful green. Thereā€™s a huge signage where tourists normally go for a mandatory photo.

Kat in Puerto Princesa Underground River signage

Up ahead thereā€™s a forest where you can see monkeys and komodo dragons. (I was surprised to know there are komodo dragons here; I thought they could only be found in Indonesia!) Then thereā€™s the jump-off point to the underground river tour.

It was time for us to get on one of the paddle boats! We were given a life vest and safety cap each (mandatory), as well as an audio guide with earphones that we can listen through during the tour. I like the soothing voices of the narrators. I think the only way it can be improved if is they get Benedict Cumberbatch.

Jump-off to Puerto Princesa Underground River

It was dark inside the cave. Our guide/boat paddler would point his flashlight in specific stalactites and stalagmites and give additional info as well, aside from that weā€™re listening to. They are creative in likening the formations to common objects such as vegetables. There are also formations similar to the Last Supper and what appears to be the face of Jesus Christ.

We passed by wide passageways and huge rooms including one called The Cathedral.

It was challenging to take photos inside because itā€™s dark and we were continuously moving.

Paddle boat tour to Puerto Princesa Underground River

The tour was a humbling experience. There we were, in one of the grandest natural attractions in the world ā€” peaceful and undisturbed. The soothing voiceover, occasional bat noises and sounds of dripping water from the caveā€™s ceiling all contributed to giving an amazing experience.

Here are the directions to Puerto Princesa Underground River.

  • Take a flight to Puerto Princesa City, Palawan.
  • From Puerto Princesa, ride a trike or jeep to San Jose Terminal. From there, take a bus to Sabang (P125, 2 hours). Walk to Sabang Port where the registration is.

If you avail of a packaged tour, round-trip service from your hotel to the underground river is taken cared of.

The Puerto Princesa Underground River is open all-year round. However, itā€™s best to visit during high season when sea condition is calmer. During bad weather, the underground river may be closed ā€” although this is not a common occurrence.

Low season runs from July to October, and high season is from November to June.

Should you go on a packaged tour or DIY tour?

A DIY tour saves you a little money, but you have to do everything yourself including securing a permit to the underground river day(s) before your visit. I recommend getting a packaged tour to the Puerto Princesa Underground River instead as itā€™s the easier choice. Most people go this way as well.

Here are the instructions to a DIY tour to the Puerto Princesa Underground River.

First, you need to secure a permit to the underground office in the tourist office in City Coliseum, Puerto Princesa City. Do this at least a day before your intended visit.

On the day of your visit, make your way to Sabang Port. Show your permit and pay the environmental fee. The environmental fee is good for 5 days and can be used for both Puerto Princesa Underground River and Honda Bay. Your permit will be stamped once paid. Show this to the people organizing the motorized boats to the Entrance Beach. A boat takes 6 passengers so you may need to wait for others, but since there are a lot of tourists going to the underground river, you shouldnā€™t wait long. The boat ride takes 15-20 minutes.

From the Entrance Beach, walk for about 100 meters to the jump-off point to the underground river. There youā€™ll be put on a paddle boat along with the same passengers you were with in the boat from Sabang.

Hereā€™s a summary of rates for a DIY tour ( Updated as of 2021 ):

Packaged tours are the recommended way to visit the Puerto Princesa Underground River.

A packaged tour normally includes:

  • Round-trip van transfer from/to your accommodation in Puerto Princesa City
  • Buffet lunch
  • Motorized boat transfer from Sabang to Entrance Beach
  • Entrance fee, permit, guide fee
  • 45-minute boat tour of the Puerto Princesa Underground River

Pick-up time is usually between 7AM and 8AM . Drop-off time at Puerto Princesa City is 4-5PM.

Upon arrival in Sabang, your guide will have to secure a time slot for your group in the Underground River Authorities Office . Waiting time may sometimes stretch for 1-2 hours. There are optional activities you can do in Sabang while waiting, which includes zipline, mangrove tour, and zipline.

Hereā€™s a summary of rates for Puerto Princesa Underground River packaged tours ( Updated as of 2021) :

There are many travel agencies in Puerto Princesa, but the easiest way to book a tour is via Klook. Book a Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour here.

Here are the things you should bring for the tour:

  • Bottled water
  • Extra cash for souvenirs or optional activities
  • Slippers/flip-flops (your feet might get wet when getting on the boats)
  • Dry bag for your essential items
  • There are limited permits given to visitors daily to limit the impact of tourism to the underground river. Hence, itā€™s best to book a few days ahead (at least 3 days prior). During peak season, this tour may be fully booked to a month.
  • Children under 3 years old are not allowed in the tour for safety reasons.
  • The water in the underground river is a no-swimming zone.

Here are some of the most recommended stays in Puerto Princesa:

  • Holiday Suites. Book via Agoda
  • Daluyon Beach and Mountain Resort. Book via Agoda
  • Sheridan Beach Resort and Spa. Book via Agoda

You can also check out our article on the Best Puerto Princesa Hotels and Resorts .

Disclaimer : Thanks to Travelicious Tours Palawan for the complimentary tour! As always, thoughts and opinions are my own.

Did this guide to the Puerto Princesa Underground River in Palawan helped you? If you have any comments or questions, let us know below!

Visiting Palawan? Check out the rest of our guides in Palawan:

  • Ultimate Guide to Palawan
  • Top Things to Do in Palawan
  • Best Beaches in Palawan

Puerto Princesa :

  • Guide to Puerto Princesa Underground River
  • Island Hopping in Honda Bay
  • Best Resorts and Hotels in Puerto Princesa
  • Travel Guide to Coron
  • Best Resorts in Coron Palawan
  • Travel Guide to El Nido
  • Best Resorts in El Nido Palawan
  • Travel Guide to Balabac
  • Island Hopping in Balabac
  • Onuk Island

Port Barton :

  • Travel Guide to Port Barton + 3 Days Itinerary
  • Top Things to Do in Port Barton
  • Island Hopping in Port Barton

Get discounts on your travels!

Klook logo

Enjoy discounts with KLOOK using our promo code: TARALETSANYWHERE

Katherine author profile

Katherine Cortes is a long-time backpacker and a freelance writer/editor. She likes beaches, snorkeling trips, and relaxing staycations (preferably with bath tubs!).

Starfish Island in Honda Bay, Palawan

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

underground river tour duration

Journey Wonders

The Puerto Princesa Underground River: The Ultimate Guide

The Puerto Princesa Underground River is a true wonder of nature. Here’s what to expect and all you need to know to plan your visit. Enjoy!

In the picture perfect island of Palawan, you will find a natural wonder like no other. You see, instead of being located above ground, this wonder of nature is an underground one that will take you a lot of effort to reach but trust me, the reward will be worth it.

Read all about the Puerto Princesa Underground River here my wonder friends including my best tips as to how to plan your visit on your own without a tour. 

Are you ready to explore this wonder of nature? Here we go!!!

The Puerto Princesa Underground River Without a Tour: How to Plan Your Visit

Of all the Wonders of Nature (read all about my adventures at Iguazu Falls , Halong Bay and Komodo Island !) that I’ve visited so far, the Puerto Princesa Underground River is the only one to require a very tedious bureaucratic process. In order to get a permit for the Underground River, you have to apply for it at the Puerto Princesa’s City Colisseum.

The number of permits sold each day to walk-ins is quite low (the rest go to the local tour companies) so it is recommended that you apply for it at least one or two days in advance. 

Price of the permit fee for international tourists is 250 PHP plus 85 PHP of the mandatory audio guide. In addition to this you have to pay 40 PHP for the environment fee and 200 PHP for the roundtrip boat ride from Sabang to the Puerto Princesa Underground River’s entrance.

The Puerto Princesa Underground River

However, be warned that despite its name, the Puerto Princesa Underground River isn’t actually on Puerto Princesa itself. The nearest town to the Puerto Princesa Underground River is Sabang which is located 90 minutes away from Puerto Princesa. 

In order to get there, you need to take a 200 PHP (one way) shared van from Puerto Princesa’s Lexxus Terminal so the grand total of visiting the Puerto Princesa Underground River without a tour is 250 + 85 + 40 + 200 + 200 + 200 = 975 PHP which is roughly 18 USD. 

If you want a hassle-free experience on the other hand (or if you were too late and you didn’t manage to get a permit) you can hire a tour from Puerto Princesa. They usually cost around 1900 PHP (36 USD give or take) and include a surprisingly good buffet lunch.

The Puerto Princesa Underground River

Sabang, the Gateway to the Puerto Princesa Underground River

Puerto Princesa was my first destination of my Philippines trip and as I was feeling jet-lagged I decided to just hire a tour from my hostel instead of being adventurous and embarking on the bureaucratic process of getting the permits.

All tours have the same pick up time (8:00 am) and will spend close to 30 minutes picking up people from many hostels and hotels before starting the journey to Sabang. 

And well, I really hope that you enjoy Sabang as much as I did because you’ll be spending many hours here waiting for the tour guide to get the permits for everyone.

The Puerto Princesa Underground River

The way that the Puerto Princesa Underground River Tours operate is that the tour leaders will take a photo of your ID (passport, driving license, etc…) then upon arriving to Sabang, they will go and get clearance in order to secure your group’s access to the Underground River.

The problem? EVERYONE is doing the same so if by some reason your group arrived a little bit late (which is common thanks to travelers that aren’t ready during pick up time), you will be at the end of the queue and will have to wait close to 3 hours before boarding the motor boat to the Underground Rivers’ entrance.

Luckily, there are many side activities you can do in Sabang while you wait including visiting a mangrove forest and zip-lining across the beautiful Sabang beach.

The Puerto Princesa Underground River

The Puerto Princesa Underground River: What to Expect

After having a very delicious buffet lunch, we finally boarded the motor boat that would take us to the entrance of the Puerto Princesa Underground River.

The boat journey is a very short and smooth one (less than 20 minutes) but I really recommend you to put your valuables inside your dry bag in case the water splashes you due to the speed of the boat.

You can read about some of my best packing suggestions here: RTW Packing Guide.

The Puerto Princesa Underground River

Once you disembark from the boat you will proceed to a wooden pathway from where you’ll have to walk 5 minutes to the entrance of the Underground River. 

Be on the lookout my friends! Along the way you can spot monkeys, monitor lizards and more fantastic and friendly animals so be careful not to step on them!

Also, don’t bring any plastics bags with you. Not only it is harmful for the environment but monkeys have the habit of stealing them thinking there’s food inside. You don’t want your valuables to be spread all around the island do you?

The Puerto Princesa Underground River

Upon finally arriving at the Puerto Princesa Underground River proper, you will be forced to wear a life vest and a helmet in order to be allowed inside. 

They will also give you an audio guide which includes an interesting narration about the natural processes of the Underground River as well as some funny insights about the names of certain rock formations.

It is forbidden to speak loudly inside the Underground River (to avoid disturbing the bats) which is why the Government decided to implement the audio guides in order to have a virtually silent tour. If you ask me, more natural sites should do this as well! 

The Puerto Princesa Underground River

The Puerto Princesa Underground River is more than 24KM long although only 4KM of those can actually be navigated by boat. 

And well, words cannot really begin to describe the otherworldly beauty of the sights you will encounter during your journey. My best advice? Turn off the audio guide after a while and just contemplate in total silence the masterworks of Mother Nature.

That being said, don’t look up with your mouth open or a bat might drop a little present for you!!!

Traveling to more Palawan destinations of wonders? Check out my articles of the best things to do and see in El Nido and the Ultimate El Nido to Coron Travel Guide ! 

The Puerto Princesa Underground River

Where to Stay in Puerto Princesa, Philippines

While some people chose to stay in Sabang itself, truth is that Puerto Princesa has more things to offer (including its closeness to Honda Bay ) so my recommendation is for you to spend at least 2 nights there.

Puerto Princesa has its fair share of budget hotels, party hostels and luxury hotels so there’s a little bit of everything for everyone.

Personally, I can recommend Shebang Hostel, a boutique hostel located a few minutes away from the airport, the customer service was amazing and they were very helpful in booking the Puerto Princesa Underground River tour for me. Be sure to check them out!

You can make a booking for this and more properties via our  Booking.com Affiliate Link of Wonders ! Same price for you and a small pocket money commission for this website of yours.

Sweet deal, uh?

The Puerto Princesa Underground River

I hope you have enjoyed this article about the Puerto Princesa Underground River. Don’t forget to subscribe in order to get more awesome updates and tips straight to your e-mail!

Have you ever visited the Puerto Princesa Underground River? Would you like to? What is your favorite wonder of nature? Share your thoughts and let me know what you think!

Until next time, my friends!

Things to Do and See in Puerto Princesa

Island Travel and Tours

Underground River

Proceed booking, already a member, don't have an account create one., or continue as guest, adding item to wishlist requires an account.

  • Beauty of nature carved by millions of years
  • Encounter with nature and wildlife in their natural habitats.
  • Rock formations inside the cave.
  • Information through an audio guide available in multiple languages, and from your friendly guide.

Explore Underground River, one of the most amazing attractions in Palawan Island and in the Philippines.

Puerto Princesaā€™s Subterranean River (Underground River) is one of the worldā€™s most impressive cave systems hailed as one of the new 7 wonders of the world and listed as a UNESCO Heritage Site.

The entire area where the Underground River is located is actually a national park and a model of biodiversity. The park encompasses one of the worldā€™s most impressive cave systems, featuring spectacular limestone karst landscapes, pristine natural beauty, and intact old-growth forests and distinctive wildlife.

This Underground River cruise is about 1.5 km upstream into the cave. In order to reduce the impact on the environment, we arrange this cruise on a shared boat.

The cruise can be extended to cover 4.3 km into the Underground River if covered by a special permit and surcharge.

  • 07:00 AM | Puerto Princes City, Palawan
  • A round-trip on shared air-conditioned tourist van transfer
  • Buffet lunch
  • Professional/licensed english speaking tour guide
  • Entrance Fees
  • Round trip boat transfer
  • Safety gears (helmet and life vest)
  • Use of audio device (multi-lingual)
  • Free Hotel Pick-up & drop Off
  • Travel Insurance
  • A one-time payment of the mandatory Eco Tourism Development Fee (Php 150.00/pax).
  • Gratuities (Tips for guides and drivers) – optional

DAY TRIP Underground River Tour

07:00 H ā€“ Hotel pick up in Puerto Princesa city

  • Drive to Sabang Wharf (there will be one stop on the journey each way)
  • Boat transfer to the Underground River National Park
  • Guided paddle boat in the Underground River (approximately 45-60 minutes)
  • Buffet lunch in a Sabang restaurant
  • Return drive to Puerto Princesa City
  • 04:00 PM to 05:00 PM ā€“ Hotel drop off
  • What To BRING
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Passport or Id card must be presented during registration
  • Light comfortable clothes, shorts are fine, loose fitting shirt / T-shirt of light cotton
  • Sun hat, sun block, sunglasses
  • Camera and video
  • Flip flops, shoes, or sturdy lightweight footwear that are easy to wear and take off as you may have to step into the water during boat transfer
  • Insect repellent
  • Drinking water
  • Raincoat (just in case of rain)
  • Cash for personal expenses

This tour is Group/shared tour arrangement and available all year round.

Pick up & Drop off to & from accommodation is free of charge (FOC) within downtown of Puerto Princesa, along the way – Salvacion Junction, Ā Bahile, Macarascas, Buenavista, Tagabenit & Sabang area only. Guests/travelers staying outside mentioned places may opt for a roundtrip van transfer. The surcharge will be paid directly to the operator.

The durations of transfers are approximate. The exact duration will depend Ā on the time of day and traffic conditions. The actual pick up time shall be communicated/reconfirmed to you through your hotel or contact details before the scheduled tour.Ā 

For private tour arrangements, the pick-up time is flexible and can be adjusted according to your convenient time.

Immediately after submitting your reservation, you will receive a Booking Confirmation Order by email.

If your booking is accepted, a Voucher will be sent to you via email. The voucher will serve as your proof of purchase. You must provide the voucher to the appropriate service provider in order to redeem your tour, ticket, or package. Your reservation cannot be honored or redeemed without presenting a valid voucher.

In the event a travel product booked by you is not available, we will either refund you in full or suggest you an alternative travel product of similar pricing.

If you do not receive the automatic Booking Confirmation message within a few minutes after submitting payment, please check your Junk email folder just in case the confirmation email got delivered there instead of your inbox. If so, select the confirmation message and click Not Junk, which will allow future messages to get through.

If the Booking Confirmation message is not your in Junk email folder, please send us an email immediately at [email protected]. If we do not hear from you, we will assume that you have received the Booking Confirmation message and Voucher.

Whilst we try and ensure that all details, descriptions and prices which appear on this website are accurate, errors may occur. If we discover an error in the price of any travel products which you have booked we will inform you of this as soon as possible and give you the option of reconfirming your booking at the correct price or cancelling it. If we are unable to contact, you we will treat the booking as cancelled. If you cancel and you have already paid for the travel products, you will receive a full refund.

We reserve the right to make changes and updates to any information contained within this site without prior notice.

We reserve the right to make amendment including altering, postponing and cancelling the tour/transfer due to unforeseeable or unavoidable events beyond our control. These include: war, threat of war, riot, civil disobedience, government action, terrorist activity, natural or industrial disaster, fire, adverse weather conditions, level of water in rivers or floods, technical or maintenance problems and closure of airports.

Except where otherwise expressly stated in these terms and conditions we regret that we cannot accept liability or pay any compensation where the performance of our contractual obligations is prevented or affected by reason of such events beyond our control.

Under no circumstances can we be held responsible for weather conditions. We accept no responsibility for weather conditions that may affect the delivery and implementation of the itinerary.

Some of the travel products or services on this website are provided by third party suppliers of travel products or services, which we have contracted with. When we are acting as an agent we have no liability in respect of the supply of any element of your booking, including any liability for illness, personal injury, death or loss of any kind, delay and inconvenience caused directly or indirectly by any provider of travel services or products or by other third parties.

Any claim must be brought against the relevant supplier of the travel services or products and where refunds are due to you from third party supplier of travel products or services, we will provide reasonable assistance to you in claiming such funds from them.

We strongly recommend that you do not travel without adequate travel insurance for your own protection and peace of mind. It is your responsibility to ensure that you purchase adequate travel insurance for your needs.

We reserve the right to change the boat/vehicle type, capacity without notice.

We reserve the right to reroute or change the order of the visits of any tours and to make any changes to the pick-up time.

No refund will be given for such substitutions or changes.

If you have a problem during your holiday it is of the utmost importance that you immediately bring it to the attention of the relevant person (for example the hotel manager, the tour guide, the driver) who will do their best to put things right. If your complaint is not resolved, you should contact our office to advise us of the problem so that we may endeavour to resolve it.

However, should a problem remain unresolved, a complaint should be made in writing within 30 days of your return home. We will not accept any liability for claims received after this period.

Our organization may issue a full or partial refund under certain circumstances:

In order to claim the refund, you must send an email to [email protected] and specify your name and booking number.

Refund requests must be received within 30 days from the date of tour/transferĀ  Beyond that, we will no longer entertain such requests.

It is your responsibility to obtain a visa (where required) and other relevant travel document at your own costs. You must be in possession of a valid passport required for entry, departure and travel through each destination point along the itinerary of the tour, (your passport must be valid 6 months after your return date), and be in possession all visas, permits and certificates including vaccination certificates, insurance policies, required for the whole of the journey.

Any information or advice given by us regarding visas, vaccinations, climate, clothing, baggage, special equipment, etc. is purely advisory, provided as a courtesy and we are not responsible for any errors or omissions as to the information provided.

Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of vouchers and other travel documents at time of going to issue, however we can not be held responsible for typographical errors, or errors arising from unforeseen circumstances.

It is your responsibility to ensure that all of the details on your travel documents are correct and to bring to our attention any error or discrepancy immediately.

In order to make your booking and ensure that your travel arrangements run smoothly, and in accordance with your requirements, we need to use the information that you provide and pass this onto suppliers. This information may include your name, address, age, passport number and any special needs, disabilities, dietary requirements etc.

Luggage and personal belongings are yours and your partyā€™s responsibility. Do not leave personal belongings unattended even for a minute, in the vehicles. We are not responsible for any loss, theft or damage to baggage or personal belongings during the tour/transfer.

Please ensure that small items such as mobile phones, purses and wallets are accounted for before the vehicle departs. We can not guarantee that once the driver has left you, that they will be able to return items left in the vehicle to you immediately. If an item has been left at the hotel then you can call the hotel and provide them with your home address along with their credit/debit card details so the hotel can arrange for the items to be returned to your home address.

You can cancel your booking for free within 24 hours after you have placed it.

After 24 hours, if you cancel some or all portions of your booking cancellation fees will apply.

A cancellation will only be effective when we receive written confirmation of the cancellation (please send an email to [email protected])

Depending on the reason for cancellation, you may be able to reclaim these cancellation charges under the terms of any insurance policy you may have.

Standard Cancellation policy for day trips, ferry and van transfers :

  • Cancellation Made within 7 Days prior to departure date
  • Non-refundable
  • Cancellation Made within 8 Days or more prior to departure date
  • 80% of payment is refunded

Amendment for day trips, ferry and van transfers :

  • Any changes made to a reservation 7 days prior to the departure date will be subject to a minimum PHP 300 Amendment Fee (per change).
  • Amendments can be made up to 8 days before the trip free of charge

Cancellation policy for tour package with hotels:

  • 7 Days prior to departure date
  • 8-10 Days prior to departure date
  • 20% of payment is refunded
  • 11-14 Days prior to departure date
  • 45% of payment is refunded
  • 15 or more DaysĀ  prior to departure date
  • 65% of payment is refunded

The refund shall be processed within 5-15 working days from the date of cancellation.

What cannot be refunded:

Certain travel arrangements may not be changeable after a reservation has been made and any alteration request could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.

1) Airfare is completely non-refundable and non-changeable 2) Promo packages with hotels are not refundable and non-changeable 3) Admission tickets, entry permits cannot be refunded once confirmed

If, after the booking is placed, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, for example your chosen date or accommodation, we will do our utmost to make these changes, but it may not always be possible.

Where it is possible to meet your request, the cost will be recalculated in accordance with any new travel arrangements taking into account the prevailing prices, under occupancy supplements, any cancellation fees, amendment fees or other extra charges payable and a new booking confirmation issued.

There are travel products on this website where amendment fees will be charged on each occasion that the booking is amended. Please read each product ā€œimportant noteā€.

You hereby waive any objection you may have to our use of electronic records with Discover, MasterCard, Visa, American Express or banks that issue credit cards should it be necessary for us to respond to a chargeback. You agree that we do business electronically by email, so email is accepted as the form of delivery of the services provided by us, so you agree to accept email as the form of delivery and instruct Discover, MasterCard, Visa, American Express and banks that issue credit cards that email delivery constitutes delivery of services in this transaction.

Any claim or dispute arising from or related to this contract will be governed by Philippines law and the courts of Philippines shall have exclusive jurisdiction over any claim arising out of it.

Terms and conditions updated on the 20th May 2022.

Related Tours

underground river tour duration

Sabang – Puerto Princesa City to Shared

underground river tour duration

Private Van Transfer San Vicente – Puerto Princesa City

  • Coron Tours
  • El Nido Tours
  • Puerto Princesa Tours
  • Van Transfers
  • Hotel Packages
  • We are Corazon
  • Become our partner
  • Refund policy

Corazon Travel and Tours

PPS: Underground River Tour

  • Regular price ā‚±2,500.00
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off within 15 kilometers of the airport
  • Lunch (option of buffet or vegetarian)
  • Processing of park permits and fees
  • Service of a licensed tour guide
  • Audio tour device rental
  • Transport by air-conditioned tourist van
  • Boat transfers
  • Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
  • Gratuities (optional)
  • Taxes (to be assessed upon checkout)
  • If your hotel is locatedĀ beyond 15 kilometers from Puerto Princesa Airport, a designated pick up point shall be communicatedĀ toĀ you. You will be picked up and dropped off at thisĀ location. You may arrange your own transportation to this location. We shall also help you find alternate transportation or arrange a private transfer subject to a surcharge of $80.
  • Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date orĀ alternative tour
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • A moderate amount of walking is involved
  • Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair
  • ComfortableĀ attire is recommended as you may get wet during the boat ride.
  • Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical condition
  • All times are approximate, actual pick up time shall be communicated to you through your hotel or contact details before the schedule tour.

Underground River

  • Add to wishlist
  • Cancel up to 48 hours

Tourist going on a cruise into the Underground River in Palawan

Description

Booking notes.

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the Puerto Princesa Underground River, one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Palawan Island and the entire Philippines. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features a fascinating cave system that stretches over 24 kilometers, with a navigable river that runs through its heart.

As you cruise along the underground river, marvel at the stunning formations of stalactites and stalagmites, some of which have taken millions of years to form.

This tour is a must-do for any visitor to Palawan.

Meet your tour guide at the hotel and drive north for about 2 hours to Sabang. Upon arrival, proceed to the registration area and wait for your assigned boat. Take a short boat ride to the entrance of Underground River National Park then board a park-operated canoe equipped with a searchlight and head down the Underground River. Marvel at the breathtaking formations of stalactites and stalagmites during the 1.5-kilometer cruise. Return to the pier and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Drive back to Puerto Princesa. If time permits, experience an exciting zipline.

  • Featuring one of the world's most impressive cave systems and the longest navigable underground river, Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is an awe-inspiring wonder that has earned the titles of New 7 Wonders of the World and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sabang Beach is a picturesque and tranquil stretch of sand located on the west coast of Palawan Island, near the Underground River. This idyllic beach is surrounded by verdant hills, creating a serene and relaxing atmosphere that is perfect for unwinding and soaking up the tropical beauty of the region.
  • Hotel pick up/ drop off (within Puerto Princesa city center) Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle Transfer by motorised bangka from Sabang wharf to Underground river 1.5 kilometers cave exploration by shared canoe Lunch at a local restaurant English speaking guide
  • Drinks Zipline (optional activity) Environmental fees (PHP 150 per person)

Cancellation due to weather conditions

Please note that the Underground River tour is subject to weather conditions, and the park may be closed at any time due to excessive rain or rough seas. The safety of visitors is of utmost importance, and the park management reserves the right to cancel or postpone tours in the event of adverse weather conditions. In case of inclement weather, we offer the option to reschedule the tour for another day. If rescheduling is not possible, you will receive a full refund. If the weather suddenly changes en route and we have to cancel the tour halfway through, you will receive a partial refund proportional to the remaining part of the tour that was not completed

Cruise inside the cave

The Underground River in Puerto Princesa is an incredible natural wonder that attracts visitors from all over the world. To explore this amazing cave system, we offer a 1.5 km cruise upstream into the cave. To minimize the impact on the environment, we organize this trip with a shared boat. Additionally, please be reminded that the park has a "no touching" policy for the rock formations, to preserve the natural beauty of the cave.

What to wear

It's a good idea to bring appropriate clothing and footwear for the tour, as the boat ride can be wet.

Continue to El Nido after the tour

After your tour of the Underground River in Sabang, you may want to continue your adventure to El Nido. For a hassle-free transfer experience, a private transfer can be arranged at an additional cost.

Last minute booking

All last-minute bookings (made on the same day or 3 days before the tour) must be made by phone or email only.

From: ₱  2,590.00

Key Features

Cost-effective option, full refund for weather-related cancellation, guided tour, photo opportunities, unesco site, you might also like....

Hidden Beach in El Nido Palawan, Bacuit Bay Philippines

El Nido Tour C by Shared Boat

Hiking to Bacungan Waterfalls

Nagtabon Beach and Bacungan Waterfalls

Beautiful Islands in Port Barton Palawan

Port Barton Island Hopping Tour by Private Boat (Itinerary A)

A boat floating on the pristine waters of El Nido's Big Lagoon

El Nido Tour A by Shared Boat

A group of tourists exploring Balabac pristine islands

Balabac Island Hopping | 3 Days

Aerial view of Nagtabon Beach Puerto Princesa, Palawan

Nagtabon Beach Day Trip

Day trip to El Nido's Bacuit Bay with private boat

El Nido Tour C by Private Boat

A day trip to Puerto Princesa's Underground River

Underground River Private Tour

Underground River Tour from Puerto Princesa

From $55 per person, minimum 2 persons duration 10 hours, approximate.

See and experience close encounter w/ monkeys and monitor lizards in a rain forest setting.

Enter the exotic and breathtaking world of the underground river by paddle boat for 45 mins to 1 hour.

Explore the pitch-dark inner recesses of the cavern.

Witness the stalagmite-pillared interiors and different rock formations and doomed amphitheaters.

Inclusions 

Buffet lunch at Gusto Restaurant

Boat transfers

Services of DOT licensed guide and roundtrip van transfers

Exclusions 

Optional Gratuities

Please Note 

Kindly advise all information: Full name of all the guests, Date of Birth and Nationality.

Itinerary 

The tour starts with an early pick up from your preferred hotel in Puerto Princesa City. Enjoy a 2.5 hour drive to Sabang with a picturesque view of other natural attractions. From Sabang you will take a motorized Bangka (which is a small motorize local boat) going to the Entrance Beach, a wonderful forest area home to a number of indigenous species, containing a set of naughty Macaque’s. See and experience a close encounter with monkeys and monitor lizards in a rain forest setting.

From there, enter the exotic and breathtaking world of the underground river by paddle boat for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Explore the pitch-dark inner recesses of the cavern. The Underground River is one of the longest navigable underground rivers in the world, with a total length of 5 miles (8km).

Witness the stalagmite-pillared interiors and different rock formations and doomed amphitheaters which took thousands of years to form, and the Swift and Bat populations that inhabit the cave.

Upon your return to the Sabang port your guide will bring you to a local restaurant where you will be provided a buffet lunch.

Jea Wanders

Jea Wanders

A Travel & Food Blog by Jec & Dea

Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour

Dea Mariano

Our Underground River tour did not push through on our first day so it was moved on our last day after our El Nido tour . This time, it’s sunny in Sabang so no more cancelled tours. Though the ocean was still a little rough, yet manageable. We left El Nido early in the morning at around 3am to catch the morning schedule since our flight back to Manila was 3pm.

underground river tour duration

See also: Island Hopping Tour-A, El Nido, Palawan

Puerto Princesa Underground River

At 8km in length, the Puerto Princesa Underground River is one of the world’s longest navigable underground river. This protected area in Sabang is a major tourist attraction in Puerto Princesa, Palawan. It is also one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Meaning, you absolutely cannot miss this when visiting Puerto Princesa !

Our Journey to Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park

From Puerto Princesa City proper, land travel to Sabang Port takes about 2 hours (but since we came from El Nido, we did not have to go to the city proper). From Sabang Port, there are boats that will take you toĀ Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park (you will be disembarked at a beach). Then another boat ride that will take you inside the cave (but this time it’s motorless).

  • Land travel to Sabang Port (2 hours)
  • Boat ride toĀ Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park (10 minutes)
  • Motorless boat tour inside the cave (45 minutes back & forth)

underground river tour duration

See also: Best sunset at Nacpan Beach, El Nido, Palawan

Motorless paddle boats are being used to take tourists inside the cave. Tourists are only allowed to go up to 1.5km of the underground river. Audio guide with headsets are provided for each tourist to minimize human sounds inside the cave so expect a quiet yet enchanting tour. Helmets and life jackets are also provided and should be worn for the whole duration of the tour. Each tour lasts around 45 minutes.

There was a huge line of visitors consisting mostly of foreign tourists. But despite the influx of visitors, peace and order were still apparent. Although we waited for about 15 minutes before our turn, but it wasn’t too long thankfully.

Here are some of the photos we took inside the cave.

underground river tour duration

The water surrounding and inside the cave was very calm, unlike the water at the beach that was a bit moody. The color is in the shades of green and emerald green. And it’s not the typical river having raging waters that we usually see. It’s an underground river with very quiet waters.

There’s so much amazing things to see inside. It’s so amazing that you will be unable to take lots of decent photos because you’re just in deep awe. Not to mention it’s really dark inside which requires dark photography skills and gears. The only sources of light inside are the tour guides’ torches and tourists’ camera flash.

underground river tour duration

The helmets are necessary not only for unforeseen accidents. It also covers your head from bat waste droppings while inside the cave. You know, it could be messy and nobody wants the hassle of washing hair while on tour. We were also advised not to open our mouth when looking up, which means we had to be amazed in silence.

After the tour we had our early lunch at a restaurant in Sabang Port (forgot the name), which is also included in the tour package. We went straight to the airport for our 3pm flight back to Manila. However, the flight was delayed. Later on we realized it was a blessing in disguise as we got an opportunity to watch sunset above the clouds. How wondrous! Can’t help but adore its Grand Artist: God.

underground river tour duration

See also: 5D4N Palawan Itinerary

While writing this post, I was reminded that in good times or bad times, God is still good and faithful. Our lives are not meant to be on mountaintop all the time. It’s only through the “valley” (low) times that we have the chance to offer the most fragrant form of worship to God.

To worship Him in good times is great. But to worship Him in difficult circumstances, it’s theĀ mostĀ beautiful and sweet-smelling offering for God!

I willĀ bless theĀ  Lord Ā at all times; His praiseĀ shallĀ continuallyĀ beĀ in my mouth. My soul shall make its boast in theĀ  Lord ; The humble shall hearĀ of itĀ and be glad. Oh, magnify theĀ  Lord Ā with me, And let us exalt His name together. ~Psalm 34:1-3

Fear not,Ā for IĀ amĀ with you; Be not dismayed, for IĀ amĀ your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.ā€™ ~Isaiah 41:10

underground river tour duration

Hi there! Some of the links in this website are affiliate links. This means I will earn a commission if you decide to book through my links, at no additional cost to you. This helps me to continue sharing useful guides and stories on this blog. Thank you for your support! . Ready to travel? Find great accommodation deals in Agoda , destination activities via Klook , and easy transportation options via 12Go Asia ! .

SHARE THIS! šŸ˜Š

underground river tour duration

  • Share on Tumblr

About Author

Hi, I'm Dea! A traveler who loves good food and an electronics engineer based in PH. I like creating itineraries and daydreaming about the places. As weird as it might sound, I find the planning part as enjoyable as the trip itself. I love sunsets, beaches, and staycation trips. And I'm a worshipper of Godā€”the source of my everything! I once wandered aimlessly in life, until Jesus found me! Now, I just wander around wonderful places as I marvel at His creation ā¤ļø

You might also enjoy:

underground river tour duration

The Beacon Makati Staycation

underground river tour duration

16 Awesome Island Hopping Spots in the Philippines

underground river tour duration

Tokyo Itinerary | DIY Tour for 2 Days

underground river tour duration

7 Lovely Philippine Beaches Viewed from a Hilltop

I'd love to hear your thoughts šŸ˜Š.

  • Default Comments (3)
  • Facebook Comments

[…] easily. Moreover, it’s a home to a UNESCO world heritage site and New 7 Wonders of Nature:Ā The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. And this charming treasure of Palawan is not just another ordinary tourist […]

Nakarecord na pala ngayon yung spiel ng mga guides? Noon kase sila lang mismo nagbabanggit nun during the tour eh.

Ganda din ng sunset. This is one of the rare cases na masasabi nating buti na-delay yung flight. šŸ™‚ BTW, pwede makahiram ng isang picture nito? Will give you credits naman. TIA.

Yes naka record na sya, and 4 years ago na din itong tour namin. Hehe. And sobrang worth it nga ng pagka delay ng flight!šŸ™‚ Sure go ahead šŸ™‚

Comments Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Be the first one to get our latest travel secrets and discoveries when you subscribe via email! Don't worry, we hate spam too! šŸ˜Š

Odyssey Magazine

Puerto Princesa Palawan Underground River Cruise Day Tour

Venture into the depths of wonder with the Puerto Princesa Palawan Underground River Cruise Day Tour, an experience that will leave you spellbound by nature’s artistry. Imagine gliding through a subterranean world imbued with tales of ancient formations and mystical allure.

But there’s more to this excursion than meets the eye. Stay tuned to uncover the hidden gems and secrets waiting to be unveiled in this subterranean realm.

  • Boat ride through underground river with expert commentary
  • Witness stunning geological formations and learn about their significance
  • Safety measures followed, life jackets provided
  • Smooth booking process with knowledgeable guides

Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

  • Balabac Palawan Island Expedition, 4D3D W/ Full Board Meal
  • Puerto Princesa: Underground River and Firefly Watching Tour
  • Puerto Princesa to El Nido Private Van Transfer
  • Puerto Princesa: Firefly Watching Paddle Boat Tour & Dinner

Tour Pricing and Duration

Puerto Princesa Palawan Underground River Cruise Day Tour - Tour Pricing and Duration

When booking the Puerto Princesa Palawan Underground River Cruise Day Tour, travelers can expect pricing starting from $50.00 for an 8-hour excursion that offers a captivating exploration of the world’s longest navigable underground river.

The tour’s pricing varies depending on the group size, ensuring a cost-effective experience for all. Despite the price differences, a lowest price guarantee is in place to provide peace of mind for travelers seeking the best deal.

With an 8-hour duration, this tour optimizes time management, allowing participants to delve deep into the underground marvel while also enjoying other activities.

The tour is operated by WORLD HOLIDAY TRAVEL AND TOURS, ensuring a professional and well-organized experience from start to finish, making it a top choice for adventurers seeking a seamless exploration.

Booking Information and Policies

For a seamless booking process for the Puerto Princesa Palawan Underground River Cruise Day Tour, travelers can easily access essential information regarding reservation requirements and tour policies.

When booking, travelers must select the date and number of travelers, with availability subject to group size restrictions . It’s important to note that the tour has a non-refundable policy, and changes aren’t allowed once the booking is confirmed.

Plus, the tour has a minimum traveler requirement that must be met for the tour to proceed. In the event of a cancellation due to weather conditions, the experience is also non-refundable.

Travelers are advised to review the refund policies carefully before making a reservation to ensure a smooth booking process.

Tour Highlights and Inclusions

Puerto Princesa Palawan Underground River Cruise Day Tour - Tour Highlights and Inclusions

Explore the captivating wonders of the Puerto Princesa Palawan Underground River Cruise Day Tour as you embark on a leisurely boat ride through the world’s longest navigable underground river. Witness stunning geological formations that have evolved over thousands of years, creating a mesmerizing underground landscape.

During the tour, guests are provided with headset guidance , ensuring a clear understanding of the remarkable features within the Subterranean River National Park. Learn about the history and significance of this natural wonder as you glide through the darkened passages, illuminated by the boat’s lights.

This immersive experience offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the beauty and complexity of the underground river system while being guided by expert commentary and stunning formations.

Accessibility and Safety Details

Embark on the Puerto Princesa Palawan Underground River Cruise Day Tour, ensuring a safe and accessible experience for all visitors with detailed information on safety measures and site accessibility. Safety precautions are diligently followed throughout the tour, with life jackets provided and knowledgeable guides ensuring a smooth journey.

The Underground River tour offers accessibility accommodations , but it’s important to note that it’s not wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps during the boat ride. Plus, the cancellation policy includes non-refundable tickets and weather-dependent cancellations.

Visitors can rest assured that their well-being is a top priority, allowing them to fully enjoy the breathtaking experience of exploring the world’s longest navigable underground river.

Reviews and Traveler Feedback

Travelers have consistently praised the Puerto Princesa Palawan Underground River Cruise Day Tour for its captivating experience and knowledgeable guides. Visitor opinions and satisfaction levels are reflected in the numerous reviews available online.

Here are a few highlights:

Captivating Experience : Many visitors mentioned being awestruck by the beauty and uniqueness of the underground river.

Knowledgeable Guides : Travelers appreciated the guides’ expertise in providing information about the geological formations and history of the area.

Smooth Operations : Reviews often highlighted the seamless booking process and the convenience of having mobile tickets.

High Satisfaction Levels : The reviews indicate high satisfaction levels with the tour experience, making it a must-do activity in Puerto Princesa.

Hosted Tour Operator Information

Praised for its captivating experience and knowledgeable guides, the Puerto Princesa Palawan Underground River Cruise Day Tour is operated by WORLD HOLIDAY TRAVEL AND TOURS, ensuring a seamless and informative journey through one of the world’s natural wonders.

The tour operator, WORLD HOLIDAY TRAVEL AND TOURS, offers a reputable service with a focus on customer satisfaction. With pricing starting from $50.00 and varying by group size, they guarantee the lowest price and provide an 8-hour tour duration .

Travelers can expect a confirmation upon booking, with pickup options available and mobile tickets for convenience. While the experience is non-refundable, the tour promises a leisurely boat ride with detailed insights into the geological formations of the underground river, making it a must-do adventure for visitors to Puerto Princesa.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we have reviewed.

  • Puerto Princesa: Honda Bay Island Hopping & Optional Massage
  • Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour in Palawan
  • From Puerto Princesa: Day Trip to El Nido and Island Hopping
  • Firefly Watching Tour With Dinner
  • Private Underground River for 1
  • 7 Seater Car Rental – Manual

Common questions

Puerto Princesa Palawan Underground River Cruise Day Tour - Common questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Underground River Cruise Tour?

For the underground river cruise tour, safety measures ensure a memorable experience. While there are no specific age restrictions, infants must sit on laps. The tour lasts 8 hours, offering a leisurely boat ride through geological wonders.

Is There a Restroom Available on the Boat During the Tour?

Restroom availability is crucial during boat tours. Passengers will be pleased to know that the boat for the tour is equipped with restroom facilities. This ensures comfort and convenience for all travelers throughout the journey.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Food restrictions are common on tours due to safety and environmental concerns. Tour regulations often prohibit bringing outside food and drinks to maintain cleanliness and protect wildlife. Guests should adhere to these guidelines for a smooth experience.

Are There Any Opportunities for Swimming or Other Water Activities During the Tour?

Opportunities for snorkeling and wildlife spotting are not available during the tour. The focus is on exploring the underground river’s geological wonders. Guests can enjoy a leisurely boat ride with headsets for guidance.

Is There a Souvenir Shop or Any Other Shopping Options Available at the Subterranean River National Park?

Yes, there is a souvenir shop at the Subterranean River National Park, offering visitors a variety of keepsakes to remember their experience. Plus, other shopping options are available nearby for those looking for additional mementos.

Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

  • Private Puerto Princesa City Tour in Palawan
  • City Tour of Puerto Princesa Palawan Philippines
  • Puerto Princesa City Tour
  • Puerto Princesa Palawan 4d3n Rm With Tours
  • Shore Excursion Underground River Palawan Port or Hotel Pick up
  • Puerto Princesa: UNESCO Underground River Day Tour
  • Best of Palawan : 7d6n Elnido Puerto Princesa With Hotel/ Tours
  • Beach Hopping in Puerto Princesa City
  • Your Own Sightseeing Van Service in Palawan Van Rental
  • 3day Van Transportation: Airport Transfer, City Sightseeing Van, Beach Transfers
  • City Tour of Puerto Princesa

Embark on the Puerto Princesa Palawan Underground River Cruise Day Tour for an unforgettable adventure exploring one of the world’s natural wonders. With a 4.5-star rating and glowing reviews from recent visitors, this tour promises a seamless and informative experience.

From hotel pick-up to guided boat rides through the underground river, this tour offers a unique opportunity to witness the geological formations that have evolved over thousands of years.

Don’t miss out on this enriching and immersive journey with WORLD HOLIDAY TRAVEL AND TOURS.

Similar Posts

Los Angeles: Hollywood Film Studios & TMZ Private Day Tour

Los Angeles: Hollywood Film Studios & TMZ Private Day Tour

Step into the world of Hollywood’s glitz and the behind-the-scenes buzz with the ‘Los Angeles: Hollywood Film Studios & TMZ…

San Diego Scavenger Hunt

San Diego Scavenger Hunt

Venture into the heart of San Diego’s bustling streets with a twist that promises to challenge your wit and navigation…

Private Walking Tour in Palma De Mallorca With Local Guides.

Private Walking Tour in Palma De Mallorca With Local Guides.

Imagine strolling through the picturesque streets of Palma de Mallorca, guided by a local expert who unveils hidden stories and…

Private 2 Hour Transfer From Wolfsburg to Hamburg

Private 2 Hour Transfer From Wolfsburg to Hamburg

Set out on a journey of unparalleled comfort and convenience with a private 2-hour transfer from Wolfsburg to Hamburg. This…

Cairo: 4 Nights 5 Days Nile Cruise to Luxor by Flight

Cairo: 4 Nights 5 Days Nile Cruise to Luxor by Flight

Enjoy the grandeur of ancient Egypt with a 4-night, 5-day Nile Cruise to Luxor by flight. This journey promises to…

From Brussels: Bruges & Ghent Full-Day Trip

From Brussels: Bruges & Ghent Full-Day Trip

Amidst the cobbled pathways and towering spires of Bruges and Ghent, a journey unfolds that transcends mere sightseeing. As visitors…

  • Airport Transfer

Things to Do

Puerto princesa underground river - 1-day tour with astoria palawan waterpark day pass.

underground river tour duration

What You'll Experience

Let the natural beauty of Palawan take your breath away. Begin your adventure in the Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. Explore an otherworldly river draped with stalactites and other formations, each with fascinating stories as told by a local guide. After the cave tour, youā€™ll stop by Sabang Wharf for lunch and head to Astoria Palawan Waterpark for an afternoon of splashy fun. Enjoy the parkā€™s colorful slides and kid-friendly rides, or simply relax by a cottage as the island breeze blows by. With natural and man-made destinations alike, enjoy the best of both worlds in this one-day tour of Puerto Princesa!Ā 

Contacts, Facilities, Service Languages, and More

Leave a review when you're visiting, tour itinerary, see complete itinerary, location details, other activities.

underground river tour duration

Payment Partners

underground river tour duration

About Traveloka

  • How to Book
  • Help Center

Follow us on

  • ProductItems.cruises-search
  • Traveloka Affiliate
  • Privacy Notice
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Register Your Accommodation
  • Register Your Experience Business
  • Traveloka Press Room

Download Traveloka App

Shared Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour in Palawan with Lunch & Hotel Transfers

Shared Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour in Palawan with Lunch & Hotel Transfers

Description

Explore the hidden treasures within the depths of the Puerto Princesa Underground River in Palawan. This boat trip is open for anyone who wants to explore the spectacular limestone landscape of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. This shared Puerto Princesa Underground River tour is already inclusive of the assistance of a licensed tour guide, boat transfers, an Underground River Visitor Entry Permit (VEP), an audio guide, buffet lunch, insurance, and pick-up and drop-off from your accommodations in Puerto Princesa. Please note that the Puerto Princesa environmental fee is not yet included in this Palawan Underground River tour.

Wake up early on the day of your tour, as you will be picked up from your accommodations at 7 AM. You will travel from your hotel in Puerto Princesa City to Sabang Wharf in the comfort of an air-conditioned van. Sabang serves as the main gateway to the Subterranean River National Park. There, a motorized boat will be waiting for you and will take you to the mouth of the cave.

There will be paddle boats on standby at the entrance of the cave. You will be transferred to these boats, which will take you inside the river. Before boarding the boat, a lifejacket, headgear, and audio device will be given to you. Make sure you wear the safety gear properly to ensure a hassle-free experience.

The Underground River is considered one of the most impressive cave systems in the country, so expect to see several natural rock formations on its walls. Your guide will point out the various shapes these rocks form, such as a lady, a dinosaur skull, the last supper, and a candle.

Other than the rocks, the stunning stalactites and stalagmites will catch your attention. The dazzling crystals and minerals, plus the cathedral-like natural caverns and halls, will also leave you speechless. While enjoying the breathtaking view, listen to the audio device given to you for further information about the river.

The river stretches up to 8.2 kilometers, but only 4.3 is open to the public as the remaining part lacks oxygen, making it too risky for visitors to go beyond. The river is home to a few species like bats, birds, and reptiles. 

After that awe-inspiring underground river cruise, you will return to Sabang Wharf, where a buffet lunch will be waiting for you. Once you are done, you will be transported back to your hotel in Puerto Princesa so you can rest and relax after a morning of exploring.

Avail yourself of this Puerto Princesa Underground River tour and visit a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site. Check the availability by choosing a date.

underground river tour duration

Attractions

Entrance to the Underground River of Puerto Princesa Palawan

What to bring

Good to know.

Tour Type: This is a shared tour.

Free accommodation pick up and drop off within Puerto Princesa City Proper

Pick up time: 7:00AM

To change the pick-up time and location please request in advance so our operator may check if the itinerary will fit as we may need to move the pick-up time if the location is far and additional fee may apply.

Complimentary lunch will be served during the tour.

Environmental fee at Puerto Princesa is not yet included and must be paid on site before the tour starts.

PPS Environmental Fee

Php 150- Adult

Php 120- 18-year-old below and Senior Citizen

Children Friendly: Yes! Children 0-2 are free of charge but are not included in the complimentary lunch. Parents may share their meal or pack food for their children.

Pet Friendly: Yes!

Senior Citizen/PWD Friendly: Yes!

The operator may cancel the tour in case of force majeure or unforeseen circumstances like weather conditions. In this case, you will be given the option to reschedule or request a full refund. Note that being late by 15-30 minutes without any advice is considered a no-show. Schedule cancellation requests must be made 48 hours before your original subject to approval.

Verified reviews

Similar tours.

Link to appstore phone

Download the Philippinesā€™ biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add the Philippinesā€™ biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.

Top things to do in the Philippines

Discover all the adventures you can experience in the Philippines

Philippines Tour Packages

Philippines Tour Packages

Boracay Island

Boracay Island

Bohol Island

Bohol Island

Cebu Island

Cebu Island

Coron Palawan

Coron Palawan

El Nido Palawan

El Nido Palawan

Siargao Island

Siargao Island

Iloilo City and Nearby

Iloilo City and Nearby

IMAGES

  1. Discover Kentucky's Underground River

    underground river tour duration

  2. Shared Van Transfer From Puerto Princesa To El Nido: Triphobo

    underground river tour duration

  3. Underground River Tour

    underground river tour duration

  4. Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour in 2023

    underground river tour duration

  5. The Underground River Experience

    underground river tour duration

  6. Underground River Day tour

    underground river tour duration

COMMENTS

  1. Puerto Princesa Underground River In Palawan

    The Puerto Princesa underground river tour lasts approximately 45 minutes and takes you into the first 1.5 kilometres of the Underground River cave. You will also experience the beauty of stalagmites and stalactites, which took thousands of years to form, whilst also mixing with the thousands of bats that inhabit the cave. ...

  2. Underground River Tour Package

    Duration : Half day. Add to wishlist Remove from wishlist. ... Underground river tour: 11:45 - 12:15: Going back to Sabang: 12:30 - 13:30: Complimentary lunch buffet: 13:30 - 14:30: Sabang beach zip line (optional) 16:30: Estimated time of return: Click Here to Book This Tour Now.

  3. Puerto Princesa Underground River

    Top ways to experience Puerto Princesa Underground River. It is a long day, van ride for 1 hour 20 and then 2 boats with plenty of waiting, and lunch provided at a buffet with many other groups. Our guide was keen for us to take the extra zipline and or mangrove boat tour as we were there a little late and the queues were long for the boats.

  4. Puerto Princesa Underground River Tours

    The duration of the Underground River Palawan day tour is around 45 minutes. This is only the Underground River tour time doesn't include the travel time from Puerto Princesa city center which is 2 hours one way, lunch, and other activities that might be included in your Puerto Princesa Underground River tour package. The Puerto Princesa ...

  5. From Puerto Princesa: Underground River Full-Day Trip

    Sail along the world's largest underground river at Puerto Princesa on a full-day tour. Learn about this incredible structure from your guide, look out for wildlife, and enjoy a restaurant meal. Start your day with a convenient pick-up service from your downtown accommodation at 7:00 AM. From there, travel by land to the famous underground ...

  6. Detailed Travel Guide to Puerto Princesa Underground River

    From the Puerto Princesa, head to San Jose Terminal, which is located in the San Jose New Market. From the terminal, you'll see jeepneys and non-air conditioned buses en route to Sabang Port. Their scheduled departure times are 7:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 12:00 NN, and 2:00 PM. They won't leave until all seats are filled.

  7. Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour 2023: Your Guide to World's

    šŸ‘‰Book your Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour here!šŸ‘ˆ. Puerto Princesa Underground River Opening Hours. The PPUR office in Sabang is open daily at 6:30 AM to accept and secure permits, with a 2:00 AM cut-off time. Visiting the cave starts at 9:00 AM, and all boats must be back to the wharf before 4:30 PM.

  8. UPDATED Guide to Puerto Princesa Underground River, Palawan

    Here are the directions to Puerto Princesa Underground River. Take a flight to Puerto Princesa City, Palawan. From Puerto Princesa, ride a trike or jeep to San Jose Terminal. From there, take a bus to Sabang (P125, 2 hours). Walk to Sabang Port where the registration is.

  9. Underground River, Puerto Princesa

    When to go to Underground river. The Underground River can be visited throughout the year, but the best time to travel is during the dry season, which runs from October to early June. The sea is typically calm during the months of April and May. The Underground River may be temporarily closed to visitors in situations such as strong winds ...

  10. Puerto Princesa Underground River Day Tour

    Gallery. ā‚± 1,900ā‚± 2,500. Select options. Explore the Puerto Princesa Underground River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. See one of the "New 7 Wonders of the World", the longest navigable subterranean river. Visit the Puerto Princesa Underground River National Park, to see the endemic species of wildlife and do some birdwatching.

  11. The Puerto Princesa Underground River: The Ultimate Guide

    The nearest town to the Puerto Princesa Underground River is Sabang which is located 90 minutes away from Puerto Princesa. In order to get there, you need to take a 200 PHP (one way) shared van from Puerto Princesa's Lexxus Terminal so the grand total of visiting the Puerto Princesa Underground River without a tour is 250 + 85 + 40 + 200 ...

  12. Puerto Princesa: Private Full-Day Tour To Underground River

    Children under 13 years of age can join the Underground River tour only, not the ATV tour. From $272.51 per group up to 4. Check availability. Reserve now & pay later to book your spot and pay nothing today. Nancy - United States November 19, 2023 - Verified booking.

  13. Puerto Princesa: Underground River and Firefly Watching Tour

    Start your day with a fully-guided tour to Puerto Princesa's Underground River, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO-listed site. Enjoy a special evening watching glowing fireflies in their natural habitat. Tour hassle-free with prearranged hotel pickup and drop-off. Savor a local-style buffet lunch and dinner during the tour.

  14. Underground River

    DAY TRIP Underground River Tour. 07:00 H - Hotel pick up in Puerto Princesa city. Drive to Sabang Wharf (there will be one stop on the journey each way) Boat transfer to the Underground River National Park. Guided paddle boat in the Underground River (approximately 45-60 minutes) Buffet lunch in a Sabang restaurant.

  15. PPS: Underground River Tour

    PPS: Underground River Tour. ā‚±2,500.00. Number of Travelers. Tour Option. Tour Type. Add to Cart. Get to see the amazing Puerto Princesa Underground River and experience the beauty of nature in Palawan. This 7-hour guided trip will take you to the longest navigable underground river in the world. As the place can only accommodate a small ...

  16. Puerto Princesa Underground River Group Tour

    Meet your tour guide at the hotel and drive north for about 2 hours to Sabang. Upon arrival, proceed to the registration area and wait for your assigned boat. Take a short boat ride to the entrance of Underground River National Park then board a park-operated canoe equipped with a searchlight and head down the Underground River.

  17. Underground River Tour from Puerto Princesa

    The tour starts with an early pick up from your preferred hotel in Puerto Princesa City. Enjoy a 2.5 hour drive to Sabang with a picturesque view of other natural attractions. ... Duration 10 hours, approximate. ... The Underground River is one of the longest navigable underground rivers in the world, with a total length of 5 miles (8km). ...

  18. Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour

    Tourists are only allowed to go up to 1.5km of the underground river. Audio guide with headsets are provided for each tourist to minimize human sounds inside the cave so expect a quiet yet enchanting tour. Helmets and life jackets are also provided and should be worn for the whole duration of the tour. Each tour lasts around 45 minutes.

  19. Shared Palawan Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour with Lunch

    Duration. 8 hours. Difficulty: Easy. Languages: English, Tagalog. Available: All year. Minimum age: ... a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in Palawan through this shared day tour. This shared Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour is an ideal experience for those who want to see the river up close, as you'll get to drift along it. The tour also ...

  20. Puerto Princesa Palawan Underground River Cruise Day Tour

    Tour Pricing and Duration. When booking the Puerto Princesa Palawan Underground River Cruise Day Tour, travelers can expect pricing starting from $50.00 for an 8-hour excursion that offers a captivating exploration of the world's longest navigable underground river.

  21. Palawan Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour with Lunch, Hotel

    Tour Information: This private tour is available daily from 07:00 AM. All land and boat transfers are exclusive, and shared boat will only be during the underground river tour. Meet-up Information: Guide to the Philippines will send tour reminders at least (1) day before the tour date through your registered email address.

  22. Puerto Princesa Underground River

    Find Puerto Princesa Underground River - 1-Day Tour with Astoria Palawan Waterpark Tickets at the best price and other Things to Do in Philippines. Buy only at Traveloka and get the latest promotions now! ... Tour Duration | 13 Hours 30 Minutes. See All Photos. Show Map. Puerto Princesa. Sold Out. Discover More. Discover More. What You'll ...

  23. Shared Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour in Palawan with Lunch

    Duration. 9 hours. Ending place. Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines. Languages: English, Tagalog. Difficulty: Easy. Available: All year. Minimum age: ... This shared Puerto Princesa Underground River tour is already inclusive of the assistance of a licensed tour guide, boat transfers, an Underground River Visitor Entry Permit (VEP), an audio ...