A Practical, Authentic Palawan Adventure: Underground River, Zipline, and Mangrove Forest Tour

When you think of Palawan, the images that come to mind are probably sparkling turquoise waters, lush green forests, and incredible natural wonders. This 3-in-1 tour offers a taste of all that—visiting the famous Underground River, soaring over the sea on a zipline, and exploring the lush mangrove forest. It costs around $79 per person, lasts about 8 to 10 hours, and is perfect for travelers who want an active, immersive day.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines the thrill of adventure with the beauty of nature—plus, the small group size makes the day feel intimate and personal. You’ll get plenty of local insights from knowledgeable guides, making this not just a fun day but an educational one as well. The lunch included offers authentic Filipino flavors, a great way to refuel after a morning of exploring.

However, it’s worth noting that the drive to the sites can be quite windy and long—about two hours to the Underground River—so if you’re prone to motion sickness, bringing something like Dramamine might be a good idea.

This tour suits adventure seekers, nature lovers, and anyone eager to tick off some of Palawan’s most iconic sights in one go. If you’re short on time or prefer to avoid the hassle of organizing multiple trips, this package offers excellent value—and plenty of memorable moments.

Key Points

All-in-one experience: Combines underground river, zipline, and mangrove forest tour for great value.
Small group size: Creates an intimate environment, with a maximum of 13 travelers.
Comfortable logistics: Includes pickup, air-conditioned transport, and all entrance fees.
Authentic cuisine: Buffet lunch with Filipino dishes adds to the local flavor.
Guides make a difference: Highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
Active and scenic: Suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness who enjoy outdoor adventures.

Exploring the Palawan Highlights: An In-Depth Review

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The Underground River: A Natural Wonder

The Puerto Princesa Underground River is the star of this tour—and it’s easy to see why. Recognized as one of the world’s longest underground rivers and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers an awe-inspiring glimpse into nature’s underground artistry. We loved the way the guide explained the geology and history, making the experience both educational and fascinating. The boat ride into the cavern is serene, with stalactites and stalagmites forming incredible shapes along the way.

Several reviewers, including one who called it “a place deserving of the title one of the 7 wonders,” mentioned how breathtaking the views are. It’s a peaceful, almost mystical experience—you’ll quietly glide through the cave, marveling at the natural formations and the stillness that surrounds you. Be prepared for some waiting time, as boat queues can be long, but the wait is worth it.

The Mangrove Forest Tour: Learning and Nature

Following the underground adventure, the tour takes you to the Mangrove Paddle Boat Tour. This part of the trip may not be as visually dramatic as the river, but it’s equally important. Our guide shared insights about how mangroves help sustain marine life and protect coastlines, adding a layer of understanding to this vital ecosystem.

The one-hour guided paddle was relaxing, and we appreciated the opportunity to learn about local ecology firsthand. The reviews highlighted how the guides are informative and friendly, making the experience both fun and educational. The boat tour also offers some great photo opportunities—don’t forget your camera or phone.

The Zipline: A Thrilling Finish

The Sabang X Zipline is the adrenaline rush of the day. Stretching over 800 meters, it offers spectacular views of the sea and mountains. The ride is described as “very thrilling” by some travelers, and it’s easy to see why. It’s a perfect way to end your outdoor adventure, feeling the wind in your hair and the sense of flight.

That said, a few reviews noted that the zipline is fairly short and may not satisfy thrill-seekers looking for a full adrenaline rush. Also, it’s recommended to assess your physical condition because it can be physically demanding—especially for those not used to heights or active outings.

Transportation and Logistics: Comfort and Convenience

One of the standout features of this tour is the door-to-door service. The air-conditioned vehicle picks you up from your hotel or the airport, making the whole day stress-free. The group size of up to 13 ensures that everyone gets enough attention from the guide, and the seamless transfers are consistently praised.

The tour begins at 7:00 am, so be prepared for an early start. The drive to the underground river takes about two hours, which is a good time to relax or chat with fellow travelers. Some reviewers mentioned that the vans can be a bit cramped if the vehicle is full, especially for taller individuals, so if you’re concerned about space, you might want to confirm the vehicle size.

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Food and Additional Costs

The included buffet lunch offers Filipino favorites, with many reviewers raving about the quality and variety. It’s a welcome rest after the morning’s activities and provides an authentic taste of local cuisine.

The tour fee covers all entrance fees, safety equipment, and parking, making it straightforward financially. However, note that the Puerto Princesa Environmental Fee isn’t included, so you’ll need to budget for that separately—usually a small additional cost.

What the Reviews Say: Authentic Feedback

Many travelers reported positive experiences, especially praising the knowledgeable guides like Roman and Jay, who kept the group informed and entertained. The delicious buffet lunch was a highlight for several, with one reviewer calling it “the best food we’ve had on the trip.”

Some did mention the long drive and the short zipline, but overall, the consensus is that the diverse activities and excellent organization make this tour a fantastic value. A few pointed out that the underground river is the main highlight, but the mangrove tour and zipline add variety and fun, rounding out a full day of adventure.

The Bottom Line: Who Is This Tour For?

This 3-in-1 adventure is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day exploring Palawan’s most iconic sights without fussing over logistics. It’s perfect for those with moderate physical fitness who enjoy outdoor activities, wildlife, and stunning vistas. If you love learning about ecosystems and appreciate good guides, you’ll find this trip especially rewarding.

It’s also a great choice if you’re on a budget, as the combination of three activities in one day provides excellent value. However, if you’re sensitive to long drives, or want an extremely adrenaline-pumping zipline, you might want to consider your options.

Overall, it’s a well-organized, authentic experience that maximizes your time on Palawan, balancing adventure with education and local flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your hotel or the airport are included, along with air-conditioned vehicle transfers.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for about 8 to 10 hours, starting at 7:00 am.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the Underground River, mangrove tour, and zipline are covered in the price.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, a hat, sunscreen, water, and a camera. A towel and aqua shoes are recommended for the activities, and bring motion sickness remedies if needed.

Is the tour suitable for children or older adults?
The tour is best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness. The activities involve walking, boat rides, and some physical effort.

What is the food like?
A buffet lunch featuring Filipino dishes is included, and many reviews praise the quality and variety.

How many people are in the group?
The maximum group size is 13, ensuring a personal experience and attentive guides.

Are safety measures provided?
Yes, safety equipment is included for the zipline, and guides are attentive to safety protocols.

Can I cancel this tour for a refund?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the scheduled start time.

To sum it up, this 3-in-1 adventure on Palawan delivers a rich mix of natural beauty, adrenaline rushes, and authentic Filipino hospitality. It’s perfect for explorers eager to experience the island’s highlights with a knowledgeable guide, at a price that offers real value. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning traveler, this tour packs a punch and promises plenty of memories—just be prepared for a full, active day.