Did you know that the Puerto Princesa Underground River is one of the longest underground rivers in the world that you can actually travel through by boat?
It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was named one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature in 2012. This amazing natural wonder attracts more than 2 million visitors each year, drawing both tourists and scientists. This incredible underground river stretches over 8 kilometers, weaving through a beautiful cave system filled with impressive rock formations, ancient fossils, and a variety of wildlife.
Best Time to Visit the Puerto Princesa Underground River
When I was planning my trip to the Puerto Princesa Underground River, I knew that choosing the right time to visit was key. I decided to go during the dry season, from November to May, because the weather is sunny and pleasant, making it the perfect time for exploring. I particularly enjoyed visiting between March and May, even though it was warmer, as I love the heat.
I avoided the rainy season from June to October because frequent showers and the possibility of typhoons can really mess with travel plans. I wanted a smooth experience, especially for visiting the Underground River, and the dry season is definitely the best time to go. The waves are calmer, and there’s less chance of tours being canceled.
If you’re into outdoor activities like island hopping, I found the dry season ideal for that too. Just a tip—make sure to check the weather and book your tours in advance, especially since it’s the peak tourist season. It really made my trip more enjoyable, and I’d recommend planning ahead to anyone visiting.
How to Get to the Puerto Princesa Underground River
To visit the Puerto Princesa Underground River, you’ll first need to travel to Puerto Princesa, which you can reach by land, sea, or air. Once you’re in Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan, you’ll need to head to Sabang, a small village located north of the city.
Here’s how you can get to Sabang from Puerto Princesa:
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Jeepney or Bus
Start by going to the San Jose Terminal in the San Jose New Market area. From there, you’ll find jeepneys and non-air-conditioned buses that go to Sabang Port. The departure times are usually at 7:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 12:00 NN, and 2:00 PM, but they won’t leave until all the seats are filled. The trip takes about two to three hours, including stopovers.
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Van
You can also take a van from Puerto Princesa to Sabang. This option is faster, getting you to Sabang in about two hours or less. If you’re traveling with a larger group, you might want to rent a van or book a tour package that includes round-trip transfers from Puerto Princesa to Sabang Port.
Once you arrive at Sabang Wharf, you’ll take a small boat to Sabang Beach, which is where you’ll start your journey to the cave.
What to Expect on the Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour?
The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River is one of the best eco-tours in the Philippines and is located about 80 kilometers from Puerto Princesa’s city center. To get there, you’ll need to travel from Puerto Princesa airport to Sabang. You can take a jeep, bus, or van from the San Jose Terminal to Sabang, which takes about two to three hours.
Before heading to Sabang, you must first get a permit at the Underground River Booking Office, located at Puerto Princesa’s City Coliseum. This is required by the government to manage the number of tourists visiting the protected area. Make sure to bring a valid ID, pay the fee, and get your permit.
After securing your permit, go directly to Sabang Port and visit the Tourism Office. You’ll need to present your permit and pay the environmental and boat fees, as well as the mandatory audio guide fee. A boat will then take you to the entrance of the Underground River.
Once there, you’ll board a smaller boat that will take you inside the Underground River. Your guide or boatman will use a searchlight to show you the amazing stalagmites, stalactites, rock formations, and the cave’s inhabitants, like bats, birds, and reptiles.
The Underground River tour lasts around 45 minutes. After the tour, a larger boat will take you back to Sabang Port. You can choose to either spend the night in Sabang or head back to the city.
Puerto Princesa Underground River Travel Tips
If you’re planning to visit the underground river in Puerto Princesa, an amazing spot in Palawan, here are some simple tips to help you have a smooth and enjoyable trip:
- Wear light, comfortable clothes that you don’t mind getting wet and that let you move easily. Also, bring a change of clothes.
- Wear aqua shoes, trekking sandals, or rubber slippers for comfort and safety.
- Use a dry bag to keep your valuables safe from water.
- Apply sunblock and mosquito repellent before the tour to protect your skin.
- Always wear the life vest and hard hat provided for your safety.
- Avoid bringing disposable water bottles or plastic bags. Instead, use refillable bottles.
- Inside the cave, keep your mouth closed when looking up to avoid any unexpected “surprises” from the bats above.
- Speak quietly inside the cave chambers to avoid disturbing the bats.
Nearby Attractions and Activities
While taking a tour of the Underground River is a unique experience on its own, there are plenty of other must-see spots and activities to try when you’re in Sabang. Here are some incredible attractions that I think you shouldn’t miss:
1. Sabang X-Zipline
When I tried the Sabang X-Zipline, it was an experience I’ll never forget. The zipline stretches over 800 meters above the beautiful Sabang Beach in Palawan, and the mountain view was amazing. As I zipped across the clear waters, the rush of wind and the stunning scenery below made it both exciting and unreal.
For a moment, it felt like I was flying, totally immersed in the beauty around me. If you’re in Puerto Princesa and want a mix of adventure and nature, the Sabang X-Zipline is a must-do. It’s an experience that stays with you long after it’s over.
2. Puerto Princesa Beaches
When I visited the beaches in Puerto Princesa, I was struck by how peaceful and untouched they felt. The clear blue water and soft white sand made it seem like I had found a hidden paradise.
If you’re looking for sun, sand, and relaxation, the beautiful beaches in Puerto Princesa are just a short drive from the Underground River. Sabang Beach, with its towering mountains and clear waters, is a popular spot for tourists. I enjoyed taking a break here, relaxing in the sun and listening to the waves.
For a quieter experience, Nagtabon Beach is perfect. With palm trees and a long stretch of white sand, it’s an ideal place to unwind and enjoy a peaceful day. What I loved most was the calm and quiet—it felt like a real escape from daily life. The locals were friendly, which made the visit even more enjoyable. Overall, the beaches in Puerto Princesa offer natural beauty and tranquility, and I would love to go back.
3. Ugong Rock Adventures
Visiting Ugong Rock Adventures was an experience I’ll always remember. The towering limestone rock was both exciting and a bit intimidating. I started with the zipline, and flying over the forest was thrilling. The view from the top of the rock was amazing, making the climb totally worth it.
Climbing the rock was tough but fun. The narrow paths and steep climb got my heart pumping, but the guides were great—helpful and encouraging. The best part for me was the spelunking. Crawling through tight spaces and exploring the caves felt like a real adventure. The rock formations inside were fascinating, and the echoes in the cave added to the excitement.
Ugong Rock Adventures wasn’t just about the thrill—it was also about feeling connected to nature. I left feeling proud and with a greater appreciation for the beauty of Palawan. If you love adventure and being outdoors, I highly recommend it.
4. Monkey Trail
I had the chance to walk the Monkey Trail, and it was a real adventure. The trail winds through thick jungle, and as the name suggests, you’ll probably see some monkeys along the way. The path can be a bit tricky with uneven ground and steep spots, but that adds to the excitement. The views as you move through the forest are amazing—it’s great to be surrounded by so much greenery and the sounds of nature.
One of my favorite parts was reaching the lookout points, where you can see the coastline and the jungle around you. It’s a quiet spot to rest and enjoy the scenery. Just be careful with your things—the monkeys like to play tricks and might grab them!
Overall, the Monkey Trail is a fun mix of adventure, nature, and wildlife. It’s a memorable experience that connects you with nature, ideal for experienced hikers or anyone seeking a unique outdoor activity.
Expert Guidance for a Truly Memorable Experience
Understanding the wonders of the Puerto Princesa Underground River is important because it allows you to fully appreciate the natural beauty, unique wildlife, and fascinating geological formations that make it one of the world’s most remarkable sites.
Seeking assistance from professionals like Sam SEO Philippines is important because they can provide expert guidance, ensure you don’t miss any key highlights, and help you navigate the area safely and efficiently. Their knowledge enhances your experience, making your visit more enjoyable and enriching.
The Real Purpose of Your Visit
The wonders of the Puerto Princesa Underground River offer more than just beautiful sights—they give you a chance to connect with nature, see unique animals, and admire amazing rock formations.
But the real question isn’t just if you’ve visited these wonders, but why you’re interested in them. Are you looking to fully experience the beauty of one of the world’s most special places, or are you just trying to get the perfect photo for social media?
Maybe it’s a mix of both. That’s something you’ll figure out on your trip.
FAQs
How do I get to the Puerto Princesa Underground River?
To get to the underground river in Palawan, first, travel to Puerto Princesa, Palawan, by land, sea, or air. Then, head to Sabang, a village up north, which is the entrance to the underground river. Additionally, you can take a jeepney, bus, or van from Puerto Princesa to Sabang Wharf. From there, a short boat ride will take you to Sabang Beach, where you can enter the cave.
What’s the best time to visit the Puerto Princesa Underground River?
The best time to visit the Palawan Underground River is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During these months, the weather is more favorable for tours and outdoor activities, with less rainfall and more predictable conditions. This ensures a smoother and more enjoyable experience as you explore the underground river and the natural surroundings of the national park.
How can I book a tour to the Puerto Princesa Underground River?
Booking your tour in advance is advisable, as tours have limited slots to protect the natural environment and preserve the wonders of the Philippines. You can book through a local travel agency or directly on the official park website. Early reservations are important to secure your spot and guarantee a smooth and memorable experience during your visit.
What can I expect during the boat tour inside the underground river?
The boat tour is exciting and teaches you a lot. You’ll go through dark caves and see amazing limestone shapes on the walls. Furthermore, your guide will tell you about the history of the river and the animals living there. It’s a fun trip that helps you understand why the Puerto Princesa Underground River is so special.