Puerto Princesa, on the island of Palawan, is a haven for travelers who want more than just sun and sand. It’s a place where spectacular natural attractions like the UNESCO-listed underground river and lush mangrove forests are right at your doorstep. The city’s tour scene is diverse, offering everything from full-day adventures exploring caves and ziplines to relaxing city tours and island-hopping excursions. We especially like the Underground River Full-Day Trip, which combines stunning scenery with cultural insights, plus the Honda Bay Island Hopping for those looking to soak up the sun and snorkel among vibrant marine life.
If you’re trying to decide what to include in your itinerary, this list of the 15 best tours in Puerto Princesa offers a broad spectrum of options, from eco-adventures to cultural tours, all reviewed for their unique appeal and value. Whether you’re after a full-day jungle expedition, a quick city overview, or a romantic firefly cruise, this guide will help you find the right trip for your style and budget.
Quick Overview
Puerto Princesa’s tours are as varied as the island’s landscape. You’ll find full-day excursions like exploring the Puerto Princesa Underground River (Tour #1) and combined adventures that include ziplining and paddleboats (Tour #3). For a more relaxed pace, there are city tours (Tour #5) and island-hopping trips (Tour #2). Unique offerings like firefly watching and swimming with whale sharks also make the list. Each of these options offers something different depending on your interests and how much time you have.
Now, let’s get into the details of each tour, so you can pick your perfect adventure.
1. From Puerto Princesa: Underground River Full-Day Trip
At number 1, this full-day trip is a must-do for lovers of nature and geology. It takes you through the world’s longest navigable underground river, winding beneath impressive limestone formations. The tour includes a canoe ride into the cave and an authentic Filipino buffet lunch, making it a well-rounded experience. Visitors frequently highlight the ecosystem’s diversity, where flora and fauna thrive in the shadows of stalactites and stalagmites.
What makes this tour stand out is its immersive approach—you’re close to nature and away from the crowds. The reviews are very positive, with a 4.5/5 rating based on over 1,100 reviews. Many appreciate the balance of adventure and comfort, noting that the guide provides plenty of interesting information.
Bottom Line: If you want an iconic Palawan experience, this tour offers excellent value for just $49 and a full day of awe-inspiring scenery.
2. Puerto Princesa: Honda Bay Island Hopping & Optional Massage
Number 2 on our list is a relaxing yet adventurous day out exploring Honda Bay’s pristine islands. For around $37, you’ll enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing on various islands known for their marine biodiversity. The tour’s flexibility allows you to add a massage for extra relaxation.
Travelers love the casual pace and the chance to really enjoy the waters, with reviews consistently praising the clear waters and vibrant marine life. The lunch is usually a feast of Filipino delicacies, served buffet-style on one of the islands.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families or those wanting a laid-back day with fantastic snorkeling at a reasonable price.
3. Puerto Princesa: Underground River, Zipline, Paddleboat Tour
This tour combines adventure and ecological education. It begins with the UNESCO World Heritage Site—the underground river—then adds a zipline ride over Sabang’s coast and a paddleboat cruise through mangroves. For around $81, it’s a full-day packed with activity.
The highlight is the diverse activities—you get to learn about the ecosystem, see wildlife, and enjoy the thrill of ziplining over the sea. Reviewers mention outstanding guides and the variety of experiences. The tour is best suited for active travelers who want a multi-sensory adventure in a single day.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a bigger thrill and want to pack multiple experiences into one day, this tour delivers at a fair price.
4. From Puerto Princesa: Underground River Guided Day Trip
Number 4 offers a comprehensive guided tour, including hotel transfers, the UNESCO site, and an audio guide for an immersive experience. For $42, it’s a convenient way to see the underground river without fuss. Reviewers highlight the easy planning and beautiful scenery.
This tour provides just enough time for sightseeing and wildlife spotting, making it ideal for travelers on a tight schedule or those who prefer a less physically demanding experience. Many reviews note the professional guides and well-organized logistics.
Bottom Line: A good, no-fuss option for travelers who want a reliable underground river tour with hotel pickup.
5. Half-day Puerto Princesa City Tour
Coming in at number 5, this city tour offers a quick but rich taste of Puerto Princesa’s highlights—Plaza Cuartel, Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Baker’s Hill, and the Crocodile Farm. At only $15, it’s budget-friendly and includes all entrance fees and snacks.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want an introductory overview of the city, especially if you’re short on time. The reviews praise the friendly guides and the well-organized nature of the trip.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those looking for a half-day orientation with local flavor and cultural insights.
6. Puerto Princesa: UNESCO Underground River Day Tour
Number 6 is a smaller-group experience, focusing on the UNESCO-listed underground river with a visit to Ugong Rock and a local lunch. For $53, this tour emphasizes personalized attention and environmental conservation.
The reviews highlight the expert guides and the opportunity to enjoy shorter travel times in a more intimate setting. The inclusion of Ugong Rock adds a fun adventure element.
Bottom Line: Best suited for eco-conscious travelers wanting a more personal experience of Puerto Princesa’s natural wonders.
7. Puerto Princesa: Firefly Watching Bay Cruise with Dinner
Number 7 offers a romantic and magical evening. You’ll sail out at dusk to watch fireflies illuminate the mangroves, paired with a local-style dinner. At $35, it’s a relaxed way to end a day in Palawan.
Reviews speak highly of the stunning sunset views and the twinkling fireflies, with many noting it’s a peaceful, memorable experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or anyone looking for an enchanting night cruise.
8. Puerto Princesa: Underground River and Firefly Watching Tour
Number 8 combines daytime exploration of the underground river with an evening firefly cruise for a comprehensive experience. For $90, you get hotel pickup, meals, and two distinct memorable activities.
Reviews are glowing, praising the seamless organization and the variety of sights—perfect for travelers wanting both adventure and relaxation in one day.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those wanting to maximize their time, experiencing both nature’s marvels and tranquility.
9. Private Underground River Tour In Puerto Princesa
Number 9 is a luxury option — a private tour tailored specifically for you. At $600, it’s ideal for groups or travelers seeking exclusivity. The tour includes a customized experience of the Seven Wonders of Nature, with a personal guide.
Many reviews mention the beautiful boatride and the personalized service, making it perfect for special occasions or those who prefer a more intimate experience.
Bottom Line: For travelers who want full control over their schedule and top-notch service, this is a premium choice.
10. Puerto Princesa: Half-Day City Tour with Optional Massage
Number 10 offers a compact city experience with the option to relax with a full-body massage afterward. For $15, it covers the main sites like the Roman Cathedral and Pasalubong Center.
The reviews note the friendly guides and the opportunity to unwind after sightseeing. It’s a good intro for first-timers or those with limited time.
Bottom Line: Great for a quick cultural overview, especially if you want to pamper yourself afterward.
11. Puerto Princesa: Swim with Whale Sharks Boat Cruise
Number 11 is for marine wildlife enthusiasts. This boat cruise offers the chance to swim alongside whale sharks, the world’s largest fish, in pristine waters.
The tour costs around $61 and includes snorkeling gear. Travelers find it thrilling and humbling to share the water with these gentle giants. The crew’s local connections help maximize chances of spotting whale sharks.
Bottom Line: For an unforgettable big-marine encounter, this tour delivers.
12. Private Underground River Tour from Puerto Princesa to El Nido
Number 12 is perfect for those extending their trip to El Nido. It combines a personalized underground river tour with a transfer. At $173, it’s a premium, hassle-free way to enjoy the UNESCO site en route to your next destination.
Reviewers appreciate the customized experience and seamless transition to El Nido. It’s best suited for travelers who value comfort and convenience.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you’re heading to El Nido and want to see the best of Puerto Princesa along the way.
13. Puerto Princesa: Underground River Tour
Number 13 offers a more straightforward underground river experience. For $42, it features a guided tour with the chance to see rock formations and wildlife inside the cave.
Many reviews praise the organized logistics and breathtaking cave scenery. This tour is suitable for travelers who prefer simplicity but still want the essential sights.
Bottom Line: A reliable, no-frills option perfect for first-timers.
14. Private Puerto Princesa Underground River, Ugong Cave & Zipline
Number 14 is a full-day, adventure-packed trip for adrenaline junkies. It includes the UNESCO-listed underground river, Ugong’s caving and zipline, and hotel transfers. At $120, this tour offers excellent value for multiple activities.
Many reviews mention the support for local community tourism and great guides. It’s suited for active travelers eager for variety and thrill.
Bottom Line: For those who want a big dose of adventure in one day, this tour hits the mark.
15. Puerto Princesa in 4 days: Tours package with optional hotel
Finally, number 15 is a comprehensive package for those planning a longer stay. It combines multiple tours with hotel stays and offers a structured itinerary. Starting at $131, it’s ideal for travelers who prefer planned convenience.
Reviews note it as “incredible” and “well-organized,” making it perfect for those who want an all-inclusive experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a hassle-free, multi-day exploration of Puerto Princesa and surroundings.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your tour, consider your budget, time available, and interests. Want to marvel at a UNESCO site and enjoy an eco-adventure? The Underground River Full-Day Trip offers great value. If you prefer relaxing on beaches and snorkeling, then Honda Bay Island Hopping is perfect. For a romantic or peaceful night, the Firefly Watching Bay Cruise will be memorable.
Think about your fitness level—full-day adventures like the zipline and cave tours require some physical effort. If you’re traveling with family or prefer something more laid-back, the city tours or island hopping may suit you better. Always check availability, especially during peak seasons, and book early to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Puerto Princesa offers a wide array of tours tailored to different interests. For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, the Private Underground River Tour provides a private, personalized adventure. Budget travelers will find great value in the Half-day City Tour, while adventure seekers should not miss the Underground River, Zipline, Paddleboat.
No matter which you choose, booking ahead is recommended, especially during peak season. Puerto Princesa’s tours promise spectacular scenery, fun activities, and memories that will last a lifetime. Now, pick what suits your style, and enjoy exploring this incredible corner of the Philippines.