Best Travel Guide to Puerto Princesa Underground River on Palawan Island

The Puerto Princesa Underground River on Palawan Island is one of the Philippines' most breathtaking natural wonders and a must-visit destination for nature lovers. Imagine gliding across emerald waters inside a vast cathedral-like cave adorned with stunning limestone formations shaped over millions of years. 

Puerto Princesa Underground River tours offer a rare opportunity to witness this remarkable geological and ecological marvel.

Recognized as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Philippines and included among the New7Wonders of Nature, this iconic destination in Puerto Princesa City captivates travelers with its stunning limestone karst landscapes and mesmerizing cave formations.

This travel guide will provide essential tips and insights to help you plan the perfect visit, including the best time to go, how to get there, and other exciting activities you can try nearby.

Why Visit the Puerto Princesa Underground River?

The Puerto Princesa Underground River is one of the best places to visit in Puerto Princesa City and a must-experience highlight of any trip to Palawan Island. Stretching over 8 kilometers, it holds the distinction of being the world's longest underground river accessible to travelers through guided boat tours.

Prepare to be mesmerized by towering chambers, intricate stalactites, and unique rock formations resembling animals, fruits, and even religious figures. The river is also home to diverse wildlife, including colonies of bats, swiftlets, and freshwater crabs. As one of the must-visit attractions on Palawan Island, the Underground River offers a unique adventure you won't forget.

Keep reading for a comprehensive guide on how to go to the underground river on Palawan Island and make the most of your visit.

Best Time to Go to Puerto Princesa Underground River

The best time to explore the Puerto Princesa Underground River is during the dry season, from November to May. This period offers calm weather and smoother waters for a more enjoyable boat ride. Visiting during the dry season also reduces the chance of cancellations or delays due to bad weather.

On the other hand, the warmest months in Puerto Princesa are from March to May, while the wet season lasts from June to October. Be sure to check weather updates as your trip approaches to stay informed.

How to Go to Puerto Princesa Underground River

Photo from Philippine Airlines

To visit the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, you’ll first need to make your way to Puerto Princesa City, the vibrant capital of the island province of Palawan. You can get to Puerto Princesa by land, sea, or air. The most convenient and quickest option is to book flights to Puerto Princesa City, which is easily accessible from major cities across the Philippines.

Once you’ve arrived in Puerto Princesa CIty, the next step is to travel to Sabang, a small village located north of the city and the gateway to the Underground River. Head to San Jose Terminal to catch a jeepney, bus, or van to Sabang village, a journey that typically takes two to three hours.

• Explore the widest selection of transfer services in Puerto Princesa City for more convenient transportation options

Before departing, make sure to secure a permit from the Underground River Booking Office at Puerto Princesa City's Coliseum. This system helps manage the number of tourists visiting the protected site. Bring a valid ID, pay the required fees, and obtain your permit.

If you're joining organized tours in Puerto Princesa City, your guide will take care of all the arrangements, including securing permits, so you can simply relax and enjoy the adventure.

By Jeepney or Bus

To get to Sabang village by jeepney or bus, head to the San Jose Terminal, located at the San Jose New Market in Puerto Princesa City. From the terminal, you'll find jeepneys and non-air-conditioned buses that make their way to Sabang Port. Scheduled departure times are 7:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 2:00 PM.

Jeepneys and buses typically wait until all seats are filled before departing.The journey usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, with travel time ranging from two to three hours, including stopovers along the way.

By Van

Another option for reaching Sabang village is by van, which offers a faster, more comfortable ride. These vans make the trip in about two hours or less, providing a quicker and more direct route compared to jeepneys or buses.

Upon reaching Sabang Port, you'll need to present your permit at the Tourism Office and pay the environmental and boat fees, along with the mandatory audio guide. A designated boat will then take you to the Underground River's entrance, where you'll switch to a smaller paddle boat for the cave tour.

What to Expect in the Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour

The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River activity is one of the best and must-try tours on Palawan Island, offering a captivating journey through a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Once you arrive in Sabang Port, settled everything at at the Tourism Office, boarded the boat to the Underground River's entrance, you'll transfer to a smaller paddle boat and start the cave tour.

The journey inside the Puerto Princesa Underground River is like stepping into a natural cathedral. Expect to be mesmerized by towering chambers and impressive rock formations carved by nature over millions of years. Look out for stalactites and stalagmites that resemble shapes such as animals, fruits, and even religious figures. 

As your guide's searchlight reveals the cave's hidden wonders, you'll hear the echoing calls of bats and see swiftlets flitting across the dark ceiling. The cool air inside the cave provides a refreshing escape from the tropical heat outside. Be sure to look out for unique features such as the iconic "Cathedral" chamber and rock formations with whimsical shapes that spark the imagination.

The entire underground river tour lasts approximately 45 minutes and offers a surreal and captivating glimpse into one of the world’s most impressive natural wonders.

To enjoy this remarkable adventure without the stress of planning, consider booking a Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour with transfers. This ensures that all logistics, including securing permits and transportation, are expertly handled for you, so you can relax and fully immerse yourself in this awe-inspiring experience. 

Puerto Princesa Underground River Travel Tips

Make the most of your adventure to the stunning Puerto Princesa Underground River in Palawan Island with these essential travel tips:

1. Dress Comfortably: Wear lightweight, breathable clothing that you don’t mind getting wet. It's also a good idea to bring a change of clothes.

2. Choose the Right Footwear: Aqua shoes, trekking sandals, or rubber slippers provide better grip and comfort during the tour.

3. Secure Your Belongings: Pack a dry bag to protect your valuables from water splashes.

4. Sun and Bug Protection: Apply sunscreen and mosquito repellent before your tour to stay protected and comfortable.

5. Prioritize Safety: Always wear the life vest and hard hat provided for the tour.

6. Go Plastic-Free: Opt for refillable water bottles instead of disposable ones to help preserve the environment.

7. Be Mindful Inside the Cave: Keep your mouth closed when looking up—you wouldn’t want an unexpected "gift" from the bats above.

8. Respect Cave Rules: Maintain silence inside the chambers to avoid disturbing the wildlife and enhance the serene atmosphere.

9. Choose a central location: To make your trip to the Underground River more convenient, consider staying at hotels in Puerto Princesa City center or Sabang town. These locations provide easier access to the river, reducing travel time. 

By keeping these tips in mind, you'll enjoy a safe and unforgettable experience at this awe-inspiring natural wonder.

Nearby Attractions and Activities

While the Underground River tour is a must-see, there are plenty of other incredible attractions and activities in Puerto Princesa City that will make your visit even more unforgettable. Here are some highlights to add to your itinerary:

Sabang X-Zipline

For an adrenaline rush with stunning views, don’t miss the Sabang X-Zipline. The adventure begins with a scenic 30-minute trek through the mangroves, leading you up a small mountain to the zipline launch point.

Suspended 150 feet above sea level and stretching 800 meters long, the zipline lets you soar through the air while taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, river park, and open sea. It’s an exhilarating experience that pairs well with the natural beauty of the area..

Ugong Rock Adventures

Ugong Rock is one of the top adventure tours in the Philippines and makes a perfect complement to the Underground River tour. This stunning limestone formation rises 75 feet high and offers a thrilling mix of activities for all types of adventurers.

Ugong Rock Adventures features ziplining with a heart-racing 71-meter drop, along with trekking, rock climbing, zip biking, and base jumping. For those seeking even more excitement, spelunking is available, where you can navigate through narrow passages and explore underground caverns.

The adventure culminates in a breathtaking 360-degree view from the top, making this a must-try experience for adrenaline junkies!

Monkey Trail

For a more immersive experience, consider hiking back to Sabang via the 5-kilometer Monkey Trail (also known as the Jungle Trail) after your Underground River tour. This scenic trail takes you through lush forests, towering limestone cliffs, and diverse wildlife.

Along the way, you may encounter playful long-tailed macaques and, with a bit of luck, the rare endemic monitor lizards. The steep climb and off-the-beaten-path route make this a thrilling option for adventure seekers looking to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area.

Sabang Mangrove Paddle Boat Tour

For a peaceful yet thrilling side trip to your Underground River tour, consider the Sabang Mangrove Paddle Boat Tour. As you glide through the tranquil waters, you'll be surrounded by lush mangrove forests that play a key role in preserving the unique ecosystem of Palawan Island.

This top eco-tourism experience not only offers a chance to spot various species of birds and marine life, but also empowers the local community by supporting sustainable practices that protect these vital ecosystems.

• Explore the ultimate guide on ecotourism sites and activities in the Philippines to discover more sustainable attractions and experiences that support conservation efforts and local communities

Throughout the tour, your boat guide will share fascinating insights about the area’s diverse flora and fauna. You'll learn about the region's resident wildlife, such as the elusive Asian monitor lizard and playful monkeys—if you're lucky. The guide will also explain the different types of mangroves and their critical role in sustaining the ecosystem. 

An Unforgettable Experience Only in the Philippines

Ready to experience the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park for yourself? As one of the most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Philippines, this natural wonder offers more than just a river tour—it’s a journey into the heart of Palawan Island’s rich biodiversity. Marvel at surreal rock formations, spot unique wildlife, and feel the serenity of the lush, tropical surroundings. 

Don’t miss out on exploring one of the Philippines' most breathtaking destinations. If you have more time to spare, consider extending your Palawan Island itinerary and discover other stunning spots. From the pristine beaches of El Nido town to the crystal-clear waters of Coron town, there’s so much more to explore.

Check out the widest selection of vacation packages to Palawan Island that include these top attractions and all travel arrangements, making your vacation smooth and hassle-free. Your dream getaway is just a click away—start planning your perfect tropical adventure now!