Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour with Zipline

Imagine spending a day exploring a UNESCO World Heritage Site, gliding through ancient limestone caves, and ending with a zipline ride that offers sweeping views of Palawan’s lush coastline. For around $67 per person, this 7-hour adventure packs in unforgettable sights and adrenaline-pumping fun. The trip includes visits to the underground river, a scenic boat ride, a delicious Filipino lunch, and a zipline over the beach and forested hills.

What we love most about this tour is how well it balances nature, adventure, and comfort. The boat cruise through the cave is as mesmerizing as it sounds—stalactites and stalagmites forming strange shapes and the thrill of floating through a mysterious underground world. The zipline, meanwhile, gives you a panoramic view of Palawan’s rugged beauty, a perfect way to cap off the day with a rush of excitement.

A small consideration is the somewhat long drive, about 1.5 hours each way, which can be a bit dizzying for those sensitive to motion. Also, since this is a shared tour, expect to be part of a fairly large group, which might reduce the intimate feeling you get on private excursions. Still, for those craving a full day of nature and adventure, it’s a fantastic value and experience.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who appreciate scenic landscapes, enjoy gentle hikes and boat rides, and aren’t afraid of a bit of a boat or cave crawl. It’s perfect for curious nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone wanting to see one of Palawan’s most famous sights with a dash of excitement.

Key Points

• Stunning Cave System: The underground river features impressive limestone formations and diverse wildlife.
• Well-organized trip: Includes transport, guides, permits, and a traditional Filipino lunch, offering good value.
• Adventure element: The zipline provides breathtaking views and a rush of adrenaline.
• Timing and logistics: About 7 hours, with a 1.5-hour drive each way, so prepare for a full day.
• Authentic experience: The guided boat tour inside the cave is both educational and awe-inspiring.
• Group setting: Expect to join a larger group, which keeps costs down but may reduce privacy.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting with Comfort: Pickup and Travel

Your adventure begins with a hotel pickup—a convenience that eliminates the hassle of organizing transport. The drive to Sabang Wharf takes around 1.5 hours, offering a chance to see Palawan’s lush landscapes and coastal scenery. We found the bus comfortable enough, and the driver’s professionalism reassures you that your journey will be smooth.

This part of the trip is a good chance to get excited about what’s ahead. The scenery is a highlight in itself—green hills, coconut palms, and glimpses of the sparkling sea. It’s a reminder that Palawan’s untouched beauty is a big part of the experience.

The Boat Ride and Cave Exploration

At Sabang Wharf, your guide will assist with the boat boarding process. The journey across the emerald waters to the mouth of the underground river is peaceful, with plenty of chances to snap photos of the coastline and mangroves. You’ll switch from a motorized boat to a paddle boat inside the cave, which is both eco-friendly and intimate—moving quietly past stalactites and stalagmites that hang like frozen sculptures.

Once inside, you’ll glide through 1.5 kilometers of navigable river, a journey that lasts around 45 minutes. The cool, dim atmosphere inside the cave feels almost mystical, and the guide’s commentary points out features like unusual rock formations and wildlife. One reviewer, Ruth, praised guide Jed’s informative and fun approach, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

The limestone formations are captivating, with some shapes resembling animals or faces—these natural sculptures tell stories of millions of years. The environment is cool and slightly damp, adding to the sense of mystery. It’s a chance to see a natural wonder that has been shaped over ages and remains largely untouched by human hands.

Lunch and Rest

After exiting the cave, the tour includes a delicious buffet lunch at a local restaurant. The meal features traditional Filipino dishes, perfect for recharging after the morning’s exploration. This pause also allows you to reflect on the sights and share impressions with fellow travelers.

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The Zipline Experience

Once back at Sabang Wharf, a short van ride takes you to the zipline area. The walk along the beach and hike up to the zipline’s starting point adds a bit of physical activity—nothing too strenuous but enough to get your adrenaline flowing.

Before launching, a safety briefing from a local guide will prepare you for the ride. As you soar above the coastline, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the sea, mountains, and forests. Ruth’s review notes the zipline as “very cool,” and the sight of monkeys swinging through treetops adds a playful touch to the scenery.

The zipline itself lasts only a few minutes, but the thrill and the panoramic perspective are worth it. It’s an exhilarating way to end a day filled with natural beauty and adventure.

Return Journey

After the zipline, you’ll head back via van, enjoying the scenic drive and perhaps sharing your favorite moments. You’ll arrive back in Puerto Princesa, ready to relax or continue exploring.

What’s Included and What to Watch Out For

Included in the tour are roundtrip transfers, a licensed guide, permits, boat rides, life vest, audio devices inside the cave, and a buffet lunch. These inclusions make for smooth, hassle-free sightseeing, giving you time to focus on enjoying the scenery and the experience rather than logistics.

Extras and extra costs include an environmental fee of Php 150 and the option to purchase souvenir photos. It’s worth bringing some cash for these, as well as for any extra snacks or tips.

The tour’s price point offers good value, especially considering the comprehensive experience—transport, guides, permits, boat rides, and lunch all covered.

Be prepared for some restrictions: the tour isn’t suitable for children under 7, pregnant women, or travelers with mobility issues. Remember to bring valid ID and cash for the environmental fee.

The Real Experience: Authenticity and Value

Many travelers, like Ruth and Mar, appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the stunning visuals. Ruth specifically mentions the guide Jed’s informative and fun style, which makes the experience more engaging. Mar highlights the dizzying drive getting to the site—something to consider if you’re a sensitive traveler—and the cool zipline as a worthwhile highlight.

This tour offers a balanced mix of education, adventure, and relaxation. The boat trip inside the cave is a rare chance to see one of the world’s most impressive underground rivers, and the zipline offers a dramatic, bird’s-eye perspective of Palawan’s rugged landscape. The inclusion of Filipino cuisine for lunch adds a local flavor that enhances the cultural experience.

Why It’s a Good Deal

At $67, this tour offers a comprehensive day out that’s hard to beat in value. When you consider the entrance permits, boat transfers, guide service, lunch, and activity fees—all included—the cost makes sense. The experience is tailored for travelers who want a thoughtfully curated adventure without the hassle of organizing each detail themselves.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for active travelers who enjoy gentle hikes, boat rides, and scenic views, but it’s also suitable for families with older children who can handle a boat and some walking. If you’re looking for a taste of adventure combined with natural beauty and don’t mind being part of a larger group, you’ll find this tour very rewarding.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 7 hours, starting with hotel pickup and ending with your return, including travel time, meal, and activities.

Is transportation included?
Yes, roundtrip van transfers are part of the package, making logistics straightforward.

Do I need to bring cash?
Yes, bring cash for the Php 150 environmental fee and any souvenirs or extra snacks.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for walking and boat rides. Shoes should be suitable for hikes and getting wet—avoid flip-flops or high heels.

Can children join?
The tour isn’t recommended for children under 7 years old, and some activities may not be suitable for very young or mobility-impaired travelers.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour is subject to weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or tour.

In Summary

This Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour with Zipline offers an excellent opportunity to see one of the Philippines’ most iconic natural wonders while enjoying some adventure and local culture. The boat cruise inside the underground river is mesmerizing, offering a glimpse into a world shaped over millions of years. The zipline adds a fun, panoramic perspective that makes the day truly special.

For travelers who appreciate a well-organized, value-packed excursion that combines education, scenery, and adrenaline, this tour hits the right notes. It’s particularly suited for those seeking a full, active day with plenty of authentic sights and a bit of thrill thrown in.

If you’re after a reliable, memorable experience that balances natural beauty and adventure, this tour will leave you with stories to tell and pictures to cherish. Just remember to bring your sense of curiosity—and a camera ready for some spectacular views.

You can check availability for your dates here: