A Day of Nature, Adventure, and Relaxation in Puerto Princesa

If you’re looking for a well-rounded day tour that combines spectacular natural sights with a touch of adrenaline and a bit of pampering, this Puerto Princesa experience might be just what you need. Priced at $118 per person and lasting around 9 hours, it promises a mix of UNESCO-listed underground river exploration, a thrilling zipline ride, and a luxurious spa massage — all in one seamless package.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances adventure and relaxation without feeling rushed. The underground river tour itself is a true highlight, offering a glimpse into a world millions of years in the making, with awe-inspiring limestone formations and a serene paddle boat ride inside the cave. Then, the zipline adventure provides breathtaking views of Puerto Princesa’s lush landscape, topped with a sense of thrill that makes the day memorable. Finally, a relaxing spa session with sauna and massage gives your body a break after all the activity.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour involves quite a bit of moving around, including a 1.5-hour drive, boat rides, and some walking, so it’s best suited for travelers in good health who enjoy outdoor activities. Also, because it’s a shared experience, group sizes can vary, and early booking is recommended to secure your spot. If you love nature, adventure, and a touch of pampering, this tour is a solid choice.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Comprehensive experience: Combines underground river, zipline, and spa massage.
Authentic adventure: Inside UNESCO-listed caves and soaring above lush greenery.
Convenient logistics: Includes hotel transfers and all necessary permits.
Value for money: For $118, you get a full day’s worth of memorable activities.
Flexible options: Transfers for solo travelers are available for a small additional fee.
Ideal for active travelers: Suitable for those who enjoy outdoor movement and scenic views.

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Exploring Puerto Princesa’s Hidden Treasures

This tour offers a chance to see Puerto Princesa’s natural wonders up close, starting with the famous underground river. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and rightfully famous for its spectacular limestone formations and mysterious caverns. We loved the way the boat ride inside the cave combines eco-friendly paddling with a sense of discovery. The guide’s narration helps bring the formations to life, revealing stories behind each stalactite and stalagmite.

The journey begins with a roughly 1.5-hour drive from Puerto Princesa city, during which you get a panoramic view of Palawan’s coastal landscapes. The drive itself is comfortable, thanks to air-conditioned vans and a well-organized process that ensures smooth transportation. We appreciated how the guide kept us informed throughout, making the long drive feel part of the adventure.

Once at Sabang Wharf, the boat transfer takes you across emerald waters that seem to stretch endlessly. The boat ride is a highlight, not just for the breathtaking scenery but also for the cool breeze on a warm day. As you arrive at the cave entrance, the atmosphere shifts to something mystical, with the cool air and shimmering limestone walls.

Inside, the 45-minute paddle boat tour is surprisingly tranquil and engaging. You’ll marvel at the glistening stalactites and mysterious rock formations, while your guide points out wildlife and interesting features. One reviewer said, “The cave’s cool atmosphere and the guide’s stories made it feel like stepping into a different world.” This part of the tour is well worth the effort, especially for those who love nature photography or simply enjoy being in awe of natural architecture.

The Lunch and the Zipline: A Perfect Transition

After your underground adventure, you’ll head back to Sabang Wharf for a delicious Filipino buffet lunch. The meal is included and offers a chance to relax and reflect on the morning’s discoveries while indulging in local flavors and fresh seafood. We found the food to be satisfying and well-portioned, leaving us ready for the next challenge.

From there, it’s a quick van ride to the zipline area—only about 3-5 minutes. The walk along the beach sets the scene for your ascent up the hill, where a short hike leads to the zipline start point. Here, safety is a priority, and your guide will give a thorough briefing before you take off.

The zipline ride is truly a highlight. Soaring over the coastline, you get a bird’s-eye view of the dense forests, mountains, and sparkling sea. The experience is exhilarating, and if you’re lucky, you might spot monkeys swinging through the treetops, adding a playful touch to an already memorable ride. “The view from the zipline was breathtaking,” one reviewer shared, “and it was the perfect way to end the adventure part of the day.”

Relaxing at the Spa: The Perfect End to a Busy Day

After all that activity, a one-hour spa session offers a chance to unwind. The spa is highly rated for its sauna and massage, with a tranquil lounge where you can enjoy complimentary coffee or order other drinks (at your expense). The massage is soothing and tailored to relax tired muscles, especially after a day of walking, boat rides, and zipping through the treetops.

The spa offers separate facilities for men and women but also provides a couples’ massage room on request—great for partners seeking some shared pampering. We liked the way the spa fit into the overall experience: it’s not just about adventure, but about feeling restored and pampered.

For those staying in Puerto Princesa, free hotel transfers are included if you’re part of a group of two or more, making logistics smooth. Solo travelers can pay a small fee (Php 200) for the transfer, which is still pretty reasonable considering the convenience.

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Practical Details and Final Thoughts

This tour, priced at $118, offers good value for a full day of memorable activities. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers who want to see key sights without multiple bookings or complicated arrangements. The all-inclusive nature, with lunch and transfers included, means fewer surprises and more time enjoying the scenery and activities.

The schedule is flexible, with starting times that you can check ahead of booking. On a practical level, be prepared for outdoor clothing suitable for walking, boat rides, and hiking. Comfortable shoes are a must, especially for the zipline and short hike.

Keep in mind that weather can impact activities, especially the boat and zipline. Cancellations are possible due to weather, but the tour offers rescheduling or full refunds if needed. This transparency adds peace of mind.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those craving a well-rounded day of discovery and relaxation. If you’re keen on exploring UNESCO sites, enjoy heights and scenic views, and want to wind down with a massage, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s also a good choice for travelers who prefer a guided, organized experience—the logistics are well-managed, and the guide’s insights add value.

It’s less ideal for cruise ship passengers or anyone with significant mobility issues due to walking and boat transfers. But for most others, it’s a fantastic way to spend a day in Puerto Princesa, combining adventure and comfort in one satisfying package.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, including transportation, activities, and relaxation time.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers van transport, boat rides, park permits, wharf fees, a guided tour, a buffet lunch, zipline fee, 1-hour spa session, and complimentary coffee.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, free hotel transfers are available within Puerto Princesa city for groups of two or more. Solo travelers pay a small additional fee.

What should I bring?
Bring cash, your passport or ID, comfortable clothing, and footwear suitable for outdoor activities and walking.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, spa services are available only for guests aged 5 and above. Children under 5 must be accompanied but are not recommended for the activities.

What if the weather is bad?
Activities are weather-dependent. In case of cancellations, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

Can I customize the experience?
Special requests like a private massage room are available upon request. However, the tour itself is a shared experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, to secure your spot and ensure availability, especially during peak seasons.

Are drinks at the spa included?
No, drinks from the bar are at your own expense, though complimentary coffee is available in the lounge.

Final Thoughts

This Puerto Princesa tour offers a satisfying mix of natural wonders, adventure, and relaxation. The underground river is an unforgettable highlight, showcasing one of the most impressive caves in the world, while the zipline offers a thrilling bird’s-eye view of Palawan’s lush landscape. The spa session ensures you end your day feeling refreshed and pampered.

It’s well-suited for active travelers who want to experience a variety of activities without the hassle of organizing multiple bookings. The overall value, with included transport, meals, and activities, makes it a smart choice for those looking to make the most of their time in Puerto Princesa.

If you love stunning scenery, authentic adventures, and a chance to unwind, this tour provides a balanced, memorable day—and all at a reasonable price.

You can check availability for your dates here: