Puerto Princesa: Underground River Tour

Imagine cruising through one of the world’s most spectacular cave systems, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and lush jungle. This full-day tour takes you from Puerto Princesa to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, an 8.2 km-long river flowing directly to the sea, hidden inside a breathtaking limestone landscape. For just $51 per person, you’ll experience a mix of natural wonder, cultural insights, and optional adventures that make this trip a solid choice for curious travelers.

What we really love about this tour are two things: First, the chance to listen to the fascinating history of the underground river during the guided boat tour, which makes the experience more meaningful. Second, the buffet Filipino lunch provides a satisfying break, perfect for families or anyone wanting authentic local flavors. A third bonus is the opportunity to add on some adrenaline-pumping activities like Ugong Rock Zipline, making this more than just a sightseeing trip.

A potential drawback is the waiting time at Sabang Wharf, especially if you choose to do the optional activities. As one reviewer pointed out, you’re essentially “forced” to participate in extra paid activities if you want to avoid long queues, which could affect your schedule or mood. This is worth considering if time or budget is tight. This tour suits travelers who want a well-organized, immersive experience with a mix of nature, culture, and optional thrill.

If you’re after a balanced and authentic experience in Palawan, with an interest in stunning natural sights and some adventure, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially well-suited for those who don’t mind a full day of travel and are comfortable with some optional activity choices along the way.

Key Points

• Impressive natural wonder: The underground river is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New7Wonders of Nature.
• Comprehensive experience: Includes guided boat tour, scenic drives, and a Filipino buffet lunch.
• Flexibility for added adventures: Optional activities like ziplining and rock climbing are available but may require waiting.
• Transport and logistics: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Puerto Princesa, making logistics hassle-free.
• Value for money: For $51, you get transport, entrance permits, a boat ride, and lunch, making it a good deal for a full-day tour.
• Considerations: Be prepared for potential queues, and remember the environmental fee and optional activities cost extra.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour

The Journey Begins: Pickup and Transport

The tour starts early, with pickup times between 7:00 and 8:00 am from your Puerto Princesa hotel or accommodation within the city proper. This pickup is included in the price, which is a real convenience, removing the stress of arranging your own transport. The vehicle ride to Sabang Wharf takes approximately 1.5 hours, giving you a taste of Palawan’s lush scenery along the way.

Traveling in a comfortable van, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy the views of rural Palawan, with the guide providing insights into the local landscape and culture. This part of the trip is unremarkable but essential, setting up the journey ahead.

The First Stop: Sabang Wharf

Upon arriving at Sabang Wharf, you’ll have about 30 minutes for photo opportunities and sightseeing. This is your chance to take some quick snaps of the striking limestone formations and the busy wharf area. Here, some optional activities are offered while waiting for your turn to board the boat to the underground river.

One thing to note, based on reviews, is that the waiting time can be unpredictable. While the tour guide offers options like Ugong Rock Zipline and Mangrove Paddle Boat, you might find yourself waiting almost an hour for the boat, especially during peak times. If you’re keen on doing the zipline, be prepared for potential delays, and consider whether this fits your schedule or budget.

The Main Event: Guided Boat Tour of the Underground River

The highlight of the day is the boat trip into the underground river itself. The boat is motorized and equipped with life vests, and inside, you’ll paddle a small boat with an audio guide providing commentary in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Chinese, and others.

The boat cruise lasts around 45 minutes, during which you’ll glide through a dark, cool cavern filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and other rock formations that have taken thousands of years to develop. The guide shares stories about the history and geology of the cave, adding context that turns a simple boat ride into a storybook adventure.

What we loved here was the ability to see the cave interior from quite close, giving a sense of scale and wonder. The experience is both educational and awe-inspiring — a true natural marvel.

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Scenic Drive and Cultural Stops

On the way back, there’s a 20-minute water transport segment, followed by a stop at the wharf for lunch. The buffet lunch offers Filipino cuisine, which travelers have found satisfying and authentic. It’s a good opportunity to enjoy local flavors and recharge for the afternoon.

Optional Activities at Sabang

After lunch, the tour guide may offer the chance to try Ugong Rock Zipline, or explore nearby mangroves with a paddle boat. These are extra costs but add a fun element if you’re craving some adrenaline or nature exploration. Be aware, however, that these activities are quite popular, and waiting in line can eat into your schedule.

The Return Journey

The tour wraps up with a 1.5-hour van ride back to Puerto Princesa, arriving around early evening. The smooth logistics and included transfer make this a hassle-free experience, especially if you prefer to avoid navigating public transport or hiring a scooter.

What Travelers Are Saying

Based on reviews, most travelers find this tour to be a worthwhile experience. One Italian couple described it as “very nice,” praising the guide and overall organization. They also highly recommended the company, which suggests a good level of service.

However, some have expressed frustration over the waiting times and feeling “practically forced” to participate in the optional activities to avoid long queues. Having to eat lunch early, at around 10:30 am, was also noted as somewhat uncomfortable, but understandable given the busy schedule.

This feedback highlights an important aspect: flexibility and patience are needed, especially if you want to maximize your experience or avoid additional costs.

Practical Considerations

• The price includes almost everything, but the environmental fee of 150 pesos per person is extra.
• Be sure to bring waterproof gear, comfortable clothes, and insect repellent, as you’ll be near water and cave environments.
• The tour isn’t suitable for travelers with recent surgeries or heart problems due to the physical activities and cave environment.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour offers an excellent blend of nature, culture, and adventure at a reasonable price, perfect for travelers wanting a full-day experience that goes beyond typical sightseeing. It suits families, first-time visitors, and anyone eager to explore a UNESCO-listed wonder with professional guides and comfortable transportation.

If you’re interested in caving, wildlife, or simply marveling at one of the world’s most impressive natural sites, this tour delivers. Just be prepared for some waiting and optional costs if you want to try additional activities. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace or fewer crowds, researching alternative options or visiting during off-peak times might be worthwhile.

This is a well-organized, authentic experience that introduces you to one of Palawan’s crown jewels—the underground river—and leaves you with lasting memories of natural beauty and Filipino hospitality.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Puerto Princesa’s city proper, making logistics simple.

How long is the boat tour inside the cave?
The guided boat ride lasts approximately 45 minutes, giving you ample time to appreciate the formations and listen to the guide’s commentary.

Are optional activities included in the price?
No, activities like Ugong Rock Zipline, mangrove paddle tours, and other side trips are optional and come at an extra cost.

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring a change of clothes, waterproof camera, insect repellent, sandals or water shoes, biodegradable sunscreen, and ID. Be prepared for water and cave environments.

Is there any extra fee I should know about?
Yes, an environmental fee of 150 pesos per person is payable on-site. Optional activities also have additional charges.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with health issues?
It may not be suitable for those with recent surgeries or heart problems due to physical activities and cave conditions.

This detailed look at the Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour should help you decide whether it fits your travel style. It’s a chance to witness one of nature’s most impressive creations, with all the comforts and organization you’d want for a memorable day out.

You can check availability for your dates here: