Puerto Princesa is a fantastic base for exploring some of the most stunning natural sights in the Philippines. Unlike busy city tours, the experiences here focus on nature’s wonders—from underground rivers to crystal-clear islands—making full-day excursions especially rewarding. We particularly love the Underground River tours for their awe-inspiring caves and ecosystems, and the Island Hopping tours for their relaxed, fun-filled pace on Palawan’s turquoise waters. Whether you’re after an adventurous boat ride or a leisurely day soaking up the sun, Puerto Princesa’s full-day tours do not disappoint.
If you’re trying to decide which tour suits your style, this guide offers a detailed comparison. We’ll walk you through four excellent options, highlighting what makes each one special, their key features, and who they’re best suited for. From private, customizable trips to popular group experiences, there’s something here for every kind of traveler.
1. From Puerto Princesa: Underground River Full-Day Trip
The Underground River Full-Day Trip is the quintessential Palawan experience. It’s rated 4.5/5 from over 1,100 reviews and costs around $49 per person, making it an accessible choice for most travelers. This tour takes you on a journey through the world’s longest navigable underground river, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. The trip typically starts with a boat ride through a narrow canyon before entering massive caverns adorned with stalactites and stalagmites.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to paddle into a cave on board a canoe, getting up close to the cave’s impressive formations and biodiversity. The tour includes a hearty Filipino buffet lunch, which offers an authentic taste of local cuisine. During the day, you’ll see a variety of flora and fauna, including some endemic species. The atmosphere is peaceful and awe-inspiring, perfect for nature lovers and those wanting a memorable adventure.
This tour is ideal for those with a day to spare and an interest in geology and ecosystems. It’s well-organized and offers a mix of adventure and learning, making it a solid pick if you want to make the most of your Palawan visit. The only downside is it’s a fairly full day, so be prepared for some early starts and a busy schedule.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for history, nature, and adventure enthusiasts eager to explore one of the world’s most impressive caves and river systems.
2. From Puerto Princesa: Honda Bay Island Hopping Full-Day Tour
Rated 4.5/5 from 11 reviews, this Island Hopping tour costs about $42 per person and lasts approximately 7 hours. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a relaxed, fun-filled day on the water, visiting Cowrie, Luli, and Starfish Islands. The tour starts with a boat cruise across Honda Bay, showcasing stunning views of Palawan’s coastline.
A highlight is the chance to see starfish at the shoreline and swim among colorful fish in clear waters. Luli Island offers a shallow diving area with good opportunities for snorkeling and relaxing on sandy beaches. The tour includes a delicious picnic lunch prepared by your guide, making the day hassle-free and enjoyable.
Guests often comment on how organized and seamless the trip is, with many noting how Cowrie Island is perfect for photos and relaxing. The ability to swim, snorkel, and sunbathe makes this suitable for families, couples, or anyone wanting a laid-back escape. The small group sizes help create a friendly atmosphere, and the trip’s affordability makes it a good value.
Bottom Line: Ideal for beach lovers and those who want a hassle-free day of swimming, snorkeling, and island scenery.
3. Puerto Princesa: Private Full-Day Tour To Underground River
If privacy and flexibility are your priorities, the Private Full-Day Tour to the Underground River is a standout. Costing around $374 for up to four people, this tour offers a more personalized experience. It usually lasts 8 to 9 hours and can be tailored to your interests, allowing you to skip the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed pace.
This private option includes exploring the underground river and surrounding landscape with an insightful audio guide, providing detailed context about the caves and ecosystem. The boat ride into the cave is gentle, and the environment offers opportunities to observe local wildlife up close. The tour also includes a buffet lunch of Filipino dishes, and because it’s private, you can choose to focus on specific areas or add extra stops if desired.
Reviewers describe this as “incredible,” highlighting how having a dedicated guide and a flexible schedule makes the experience richer and less hurried. It’s best suited for travelers who want a luxurious, intimate experience or are traveling with a small group. The main drawback is the higher price, but for many, the exclusivity and comfort justify the cost.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a private, customizable adventure with a focus on comfort and in-depth exploration.
4. Full Day Excursion: UNESCO Underground River Tour
This UNESCO-listed tour is rated 4.5/5 from just 2 reviews and costs about $50 per person. It’s similar to the first tour but emphasizes the stunning cave formations and the UNESCO designation. The trip includes a paddle boat ride through the underground cave system, allowing you to admire stalactites and stalagmites up close.
The tour is guided, with an audio guide to explain the cave’s features and history. After exploring the cave, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch of Filipino dishes in Sabang, with some tours including a visit to nearby viewpoints or ecosystems. Many appreciate the peaceful boat ride and the chance to learn about the cave’s geology and ecology.
While only two reviews are available, those mention the “stunning” formations and the value of the guided experience. It’s suitable for travelers who want a straightforward, well-organized tour with a focus on the natural beauty of the underground river. The tour is good value for those interested in UNESCO sites and geological features but may be less appealing if you want a private or highly personalized experience.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers seeking a UNESCO World Heritage experience with professional guided tours.
How to Choose Your Perfect Full-Day Tour in Puerto Princesa
Deciding between these options boils down to your priorities. If you’re after a once-in-a-lifetime geological marvel, the Underground River trips or the UNESCO Underground River Tour are ideal. For a more relaxed, beach-focused day, the Honda Bay Island Hopping offers great value and fun.
If you prefer a private, customizable experience, the Private Underground River Tour lets you set your own pace. Budget travelers might lean toward the group tours, which often include lunch and comprehensive itineraries. For those who are short on time or want a more curated experience, the private tour or the UNESCO trip are best bets.
Booking early is recommended during peak season, especially for private tours, and always check availability for your preferred dates.
Final Thoughts
Puerto Princesa offers a range of full-day tours tailored to different interests and budgets. For an awe-inspiring adventure into one of the world’s most impressive caves, the Underground River tours are hard to beat. If relaxing on sun-drenched islands sounds more your style, Honda Bay’s island hopping will give you a memorable beach day. For those wanting a more exclusive experience, the private underground river trip provides comfort and flexibility.
Two or three of these tours stand out depending on what you’re after: the full, immersive experience of the underground river, the leisurely island escape, or the private, tailored adventure. Whichever you choose, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these unforgettable Palawan experiences.