Puerto Princesa: Underground River and Firefly Watching Tour

Puerto Princesa: Underground River and Firefly Watching Tour
Location: Cavite, Philippines
Country: Philippines
Rating: 4.3 out of 5 (based on 95 reviews)
Price: $90 per person
Supplier: Corazon Travel & Tours
Duration: Approximately 10 hours (check specific start times)

An Overview of What You Can Expect

This tour offers a full-day adventure in Puerto Princesa, blending natural wonders with authentic local experiences. For around $90, you’ll get to explore the UNESCO-listed Underground River, a true marvel and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and then switch gears in the evening for a peaceful firefly viewing in a mangrove estuary.

One thing we love about this tour is how it thoughtfully combines two very different but equally mesmerizing activities—the awe-inspiring underground cave system and the glowing dance of fireflies in their natural habitat. Plus, the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes logistics effortless. Second, the meals included—a local buffet lunch and a dinner—provide delicious, authentic flavors without the hassle of finding a restaurant on your own.

A possible drawback? The day involves quite a bit of travel and some waiting time, especially between stops. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or are traveling with children under 13 or those with mobility issues, this might be a bit demanding. Still, for those eager to see the highlights of Puerto Princesa and enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation, this tour fits the bill.

This experience suits travelers who love natural scenery, wildlife, and cultural insights. It’s particularly good for first-timers wanting a comprehensive taste of Puerto Princesa in one day, but be prepared for a long day on the move.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines the Underground River with firefly watching, making it a great value for a full day of exploration.
• Comfort and convenience: Hotel pickup, drop-off, and included meals reduce planning stress.
• Authentic wildlife encounters: See monkeys, monitor lizards, snakes, and fireflies in their natural environment.
• Guided insight: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with interesting commentary and local tips.
• Timing: Expect a tight schedule with some long drives but rewarding sights along the way.
• For adventurers and nature lovers: This tour balances gentle boat rides with awe-inspiring natural phenomena, suitable for active travelers eager to maximize their day.

In-Depth Review of the Tour Experience

Starting Your Day: The Journey Begins

The tour kicks off early, with hotel pickup from downtown Puerto Princesa or the airport, setting a tone of hassle-free travel. We appreciated how the pickup arrangements are straightforward, with a confirmed time that suits your schedule. It’s about a two-hour drive to Sabang Wharf, where your adventure truly begins.

The bus ride itself is comfortable, and the scenic drive offers glimpses of Puerto Princesa’s outskirts—rural landscapes, lush greenery, and local life. This helps set the scene for the natural wonders ahead.

Visiting the Underground River

Arriving at Sabang Wharf around 8:00 AM, you board a pump boat that takes you through the calm waters into the mouth of the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River. This part is quite scenic—we loved the way the boat glided smoothly, giving us a chance to take in the lush scenery and the sounds of wildlife.

Once at the entrance, you disembark and follow a short walk to the cave entrance. Here, the tour becomes more immersive. You’ll board a paddle boat for the actual cave exploration, equipped with an audioguide. The guide’s narration is informative, highlighting the geological features and stories behind the cave’s formations.

The caves themselves are a natural cathedral—stalactites and stalagmites interlock in bizarre shapes, some resembling animals or familiar figures. Be sure to bring earplugs if you’re sensitive to noise because the boat engine can get loud during the ride, as noted in a review. You might find it above 90 decibels, but the experience of floating through this ancient underground world is worth it.

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Wildlife and Photo Opportunities

The guides often point out monitor lizards, monkeys, and snakes spotted around the park or in the trees near the water. We liked how the guides shared their knowledge, making the whole experience more engaging and meaningful.

Lunch Break and Optional Side Activities

After returning to the wharf, you’re treated to a local-style buffet lunch. The positive reviews note that the food is hearty and authentic, providing a good taste of regional cuisine without breaking the bank.

Post-lunch, there’s an optional break or a chance to participate in activities like zip-lining or a mangrove paddle boat tour. The zip-line over the ocean is a short but exhilarating experience, and the paddle boat offers a peaceful way to enjoy the mangroves—both well-reviewed options if you’re craving extra adventure or tranquility.

Rest and Reflection at the Hotel

In the early afternoon, you get a couple of hours to relax at your hotel, which is a real plus. It gives you time to recharge before the evening activities, making the long day more manageable.

Evening Firefly Watching: A Magical Close

As the sun sets, the tour transitions to a different setting—a river 30 kilometers from the city. The drive is around an hour, but you’ll be rewarded with one of nature’s most enchanting displays. The guide takes you to a spot where fireflies flicker in the mangroves, and the water glows from bioluminescent plankton.

The boat cruise itself lasts about 45 minutes, during which you’ll see glowing insects and starry skies. It’s a peaceful, almost hypnotic experience—something you’ll remember long after. A reviewer described it as “very cool to see,” emphasizing that while it’s a short experience, it’s a unique sight that’s worth the effort.

Returning to Your Hotel

After the firefly cruise, the group heads back to Puerto Princesa for the final leg of the trip, arriving in the late evening. The long day is packed with sights but flows smoothly thanks to the organized schedule and knowledgeable guides.

Practical Details and Tips

• Transportation: Comfortable vans and water taxis ensure smooth transfers, but be prepared for some time in transit.
• Cost and Value: At $90, the tour includes most expenses—meals, entrance fees, boat rides, guides, and optional activities—making it a good value.
• What to Bring: Insect repellent, passport or ID, and waterproof gear as some parts involve getting wet.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for children under 13, wheelchair users, or those with mobility issues.
• Additional Fees: An environmental fee of Php 150 is payable at the Underground River site.
• Weather considerations: Rain can affect the underground tour or firefly viewing, so check the forecast.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re eager to see two iconic natural attractions in one day, this is a fantastic choice. It’s ideal for travelers who want a guided, well-organized experience that takes care of logistics and offers insights along the way. Nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those interested in local culture will find this tour especially rewarding.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have young children or mobility concerns, you might find the day a bit hectic. The long drives and scheduled activities require a good level of energy and stamina.

Final Thoughts

This Puerto Princesa tour offers genuine value for those wanting a comprehensive, immersive experience minus the hassle. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, and the scenery—both underground and natural—is truly breathtaking. For around $90, you gain access to one of the world’s most remarkable caves, a magical firefly display, and authentic local cuisine, all in a single day.

While it’s a full schedule, the variety keeps the experience engaging and memorable. If you’re looking for a well-rounded adventure that covers key highlights of Puerto Princesa, this tour should definitely be on your list.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off within 5 kilometers of Puerto Princesa City Airport or downtown.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts around 10 hours, depending on your starting time and traffic.

Are meals included?
Yes, a local-style buffet lunch and dinner are included, allowing you to enjoy regional flavors without extra cost.

Can I participate in the optional activities?
Yes, you can choose to zip-line over the ocean or take a paddle boat tour through the mangroves—both well-reviewed options.

Is it suitable for children?
Not for children under 13, due to the nature of the activities and the long schedule.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, an environmental fee of Php 150 is payable at the Underground River site.

What should I bring?
Bring insect repellent, passport or ID, and some waterproof clothing or rain gear just in case.

Will I get wet?
Yes, some parts of the tour involve boat rides that might make you wet. Waterproof gear and quick-drying clothes are recommended.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
The tour is conducted in English and Tagalog, with guides well-versed in local sights and wildlife.

Is the firefly watching worth it?
Most reviews say yes, even though it’s a short experience, the fireflies and bioluminescent plankton create a truly enchanting scene.

To sum it up, this tour provides a fantastic, well-organized way to experience Puerto Princesa’s key natural attractions. It balances adventure with comfort, making it suitable for travelers looking for a memorable day out. If you’re after authentic wildlife encounters, stunning scenery, and hassle-free logistics, this tour is a smart pick for your Palawan itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: