Puerto Princesa offers more than its stunning landscapes and underground rivers – it’s also a place where you can enjoy memorable lunch experiences that showcase local flavors and unique adventures. Whether you’re craving a buffet with Filipino cuisine after exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site or want to combine a river tour with a scenic picnic, Puerto Princesa caters to every taste. For example, the Private Car + Ultimate Underground River + Lunch + Side trips tour provides a comprehensive adventure, complete with wildlife sightings, ziplining, and a hearty buffet in Sabang. It’s perfect for those who want an all-in-one day packed with activity and authentic food [].
While some visitors prefer quick, budget-friendly options like the Underground River without Lunch for a straightforward experience, others might opt for a more eco-focused journey, such as the Shared Underground River with Mangrove Paddle Boat & Lunch. No matter your style, Puerto Princesa offers a range of options that combine nature, culture, and delicious local dishes.
Quick Overview
Our list includes a variety of tours with lunch options, water-based adventures, and scenic explorations. From private all-day trips with ziplining and wildlife encounters to simple boat rides with a tasty meal, there’s something for every travel style. For detailed suggestions, read on and find the tour that best matches your interests and schedule.
1. Private Car + Ultimate Underground River + Lunch + Side trips
At number 1, this full-day private tour offers a deep dive into Puerto Princesa’s top attractions. Starting with a scenic pickup from your hotel, you’ll journey through lush landscapes to the Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO site famous for its limestone formations and pristine waters. The tour includes a guided boat ride through the underground river, where you’ll marvel at the stone pillars and tunnels that seem straight out of a fantasy.
What makes this experience stand out is the combination of adventure and relaxation. After exploring the cave, you’ll enjoy a Filipino buffet lunch, then head for additional activities like a mangrove paddle boat tour, ziplining at Sabang, and even a visit to Ugong Rock for a quick hike and zipline. The itinerary is packed, but the guide will tailor the experience to your pace, making it ideal for travelers wanting a personalized adventure.
Guests consistently praise the full attention and personalized service. One reviewer noted, “It was truly a private trip with full attention from the tour organizer. Highly recommended!” For about $412, this is excellent value for a private, all-inclusive day that hits many highlights.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, private experience with activities, wildlife, and great food in one day.
2. Underground River without Lunch
For those on a tighter budget or short on time, the Underground River without Lunch tour is an excellent choice. Priced at $46 per person, it focuses on the core experience: a boat ride through the UNESCO-listed underground river and the chance to witness the natural marvels of this 7-wonders-of-Nature site.
This tour offers a streamlined version of the full experience, skipping meal arrangements but still providing the key highlight: the boat trip through the majestic caves. The trip lasts about 8 hours, making it manageable for a day trip. It’s best suited for travelers who want to see the underground river efficiently without the added hassle of meal planning or extra side trips.
The reviews are impressive—rated 4.7/5 from three reviews—indicating strong satisfaction. It’s a straightforward, no-frills option ideal for those who appreciate simplicity and focus.
Bottom line: A budget-friendly, efficient way to experience the underground river without extra activities or meals, suitable for time-conscious travelers.
3. Shared Underground River with Mangrove Paddle Boat & Lunch
At number 3, this tour strikes a nice balance between adventure and eco-awareness. For $58 per person, you explore the UNESCO-listed underground river and glide through lush mangroves in a paddle boat. The experience combines the awe of underground caves with the serenity of floating through mangrove forests, making it ideal for eco-conscious travelers who love nature.
The itinerary includes a guided tour of the cave, scenic views along the way, and a Tamilok tasting—a local delicacy of woodworms. The paddle boat through mangroves offers a peaceful, slow-paced experience, perfect for snapping photos and soaking in the environment. The tour is rated 3.7/5 from three reviews, highlighting its niche appeal to nature lovers.
This option is best suited for those who want a more intimate, eco-friendly experience, with the added bonus of tasting unique local delicacies. The tour’s value lies in its combination of underground exploration and mangrove tranquility.
Bottom line: Great for eco-adventurers and those interested in wildlife, offering a scenic, immersive day in nature with local flavors.
$58 per person
4. Puerto Princesa: Underground River Tour with Lunch
This tour provides a well-rounded experience—visiting the UNESCO site with a guided tour, followed by a buffet lunch. Priced at $49 per person, it suits travelers wanting a reliable, straightforward underground river adventure with added comfort.
The tour includes scenic water transports, a guided exploration of the caves, and a delicious Filipino buffet. While rated only 2.7/5 from six reviews, it is still popular among first-time visitors. Most feedback highlights the convenience and the early start, making it a practical choice for those on a schedule.
The highlight is the combination of geological wonders and local cuisine, perfect for travelers who want to see the cave system without too many extras. The tour’s value depends on your interest in the sights versus the cost—at $49, it’s an accessible choice.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers seeking a straightforward, guided underground river experience with lunch included.
$49 per person
5. Puerto Princesa: Underground River Tour with Buffet Lunch
Ranking at number 5, this tour emphasizes the UNESCO World Heritage Site’s stunning limestone landscapes and caves. For $70 per person, it offers a full day of scenic water rides, guided exploration, and a buffet lunch in Sabang.
Rated 2.3/5 from three reviews, it’s a mixed bag—some travelers love the overall value, while others find it crowded or rushed. The itinerary includes stops at the mangrove viewpoint, a water transport to the cave, and a leisurely lunch, making it suitable for those who want a comprehensive day but don’t mind the crowds.
This tour is best for first-timers who want an easy, organized experience with a solid meal. It’s a good balance of sights and comfort, though you should be prepared for a more typical tourist setup.
Bottom line: Good for those wanting a full-day, guided adventure with a buffet lunch, especially if they’re less concerned about crowds.
$70 per person
6. Honda Bay Island: Island Tour with Lunch & Transfer
Number 6 on the list, this island-hopping tour is perfect for beach lovers. For $54 per person, you’ll explore Starfish Island, Luli Island, and Cowrie Island, with opportunities to snorkel, relax, and enjoy a picnic lunch.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of beach activities and a hearty lunch on Cowrie Island. The transfer logistics are straightforward, and the tour lasts about 8 hours. Rated 4.3/5, it’s highly regarded for its scenic value and relaxed pace.
Ideal for travelers who prioritize beach days and snorkeling, this tour offers a break from caves and forests. The upgraded private tour option can give you more exclusive access if desired.
Bottom line: Outstanding for those wanting a leisurely day on the water with good food and snorkeling fun.
$54 per person
7. PPUR With LUNCH
This shorter, 7-hour tour focuses on the Puerto Princesa Underground River, with hotel pickup and a comprehensive guided tour. For $52 per person, it offers an easy way to see the cave system and enjoy a tasty lunch afterward.
Rated 5/5 from reviews, it’s highly recommended for travelers who prefer a more relaxed, less intense schedule. The tour includes scenic views, wildlife viewing, and the convenience of hotel transfers—making it especially good for those staying centrally.
If you’re after a highly rated, hassle-free underground river experience, this tour hits the mark. The inclusion of an audio guide helps you learn about the landscape and history without feeling rushed.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a quality, guided underground river trip with minimal fuss and good food.
$52 per person
8. Puerto Princesa: Honda Bay Island Hopping with Picnic Lunch
Number 8 highlights island hopping in Honda Bay with a delicious picnic lunch. For $55 per person, you’ll visit Luli Island, Cowrie Island, and enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on immaculate beaches.
This tour is rated 5/5, suggesting it’s a favorite among travelers seeking a full day of sun and sea. It’s particularly suitable for families or groups looking for a laid-back experience with great food, scenic views, and water activities.
The combo of snorkeling among corals and a laid-back beach vibe makes this a top pick for those who prioritize relaxation and nature.
Bottom line: Excellent for beach lovers and snorkelers, offering a balanced mix of fun and downtime.
$55 per person
9. Puerto Princesa Palawan: Underground River with Lunch
This trip offers a full-day adventure to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, including a boat tour into the underground river and a Filipino buffet lunch for $71 per person. It’s perfect for those wanting an in-depth exploration of the caves and ecosystems.
Rated 5/5, travelers praise the smooth logistics and immersive experience. The tour includes scenic sightseeing, and the boat ride is the main highlight. The inclusion of hotel transfers makes it convenient for visitors staying in Puerto Princesa.
It’s ideal for culture and nature enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive, well-organized day trip.
Bottom line: Worthwhile for first-time visitors wanting a detailed, guided underground river experience with a satisfying meal.
$71 per person
10. Puerto Princesa: Seafood Lunch or Dinner with Transfers
Lastly, for a culinary treat, this seafood experience in a native Filipino house is a relaxed way to enjoy local flavors. For $62 per group, you get a delicious seafood meal served in a charming setting, with transfers included.
Rated 4.3/5, it’s popular among travelers wanting to sample Filipino dishes in an authentic environment. The focus here is on quality seafood and a cultural dining experience, perfect after a day of sightseeing or relaxing in Puerto Princesa.
Bottom line: Great for food lovers or those looking to unwind with a tasty, local-style meal in a cozy setting.
$62 per group up to 2
How to Choose the Best Lunch Experience in Puerto Princesa
When selecting your ideal lunch experience, consider your interests and schedule. If you want an all-in-one adventure with wildlife, ziplining, and a buffet, the Private Car + Ultimate Underground River + Lunch tour offers excellent value. For those pressed for time but still wanting to see the caves, the Underground River without Lunch provides a quick, budget-friendly option.
Beach lovers will find the Honda Bay Island tours appealing, especially if snorkeling and relaxing on white-sand beaches are your priorities. Budget travelers should consider the Underground River without Lunch or the PPUR With LUNCH for a solid experience at a reasonable price. If authentic local cuisine is your main goal, the Seafood Lunch or Dinner offers a memorable meal in a charming setting.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season, to ensure availability of your preferred tour and date. Think about how much activity you want—whether a full day packed with adventures or a simple half-day outing—and match that to your budget and fitness level.
In Summary, Puerto Princesa’s lunch experiences range from quick visits to full-day adventures, with options that suit different interests and budgets. For a comprehensive, personalized day, the Private Car + Ultimate Underground River is hard to beat. If you’re after a relaxing beach day, the Honda Bay Island tours shine. And for a taste of local flavor, the Seafood Lunch in a native Filipino house hits the spot.
Whatever you choose, booking in advance guarantees a spot in these memorable experiences—so start planning early and enjoy your time in this stunning part of the Philippines.