The Underground River in the Philippines is one of the world’s most remarkable natural wonders. Flowing through an immense subterranean cave system, this breathtaking river captivates visitors with its towering limestone cliffs, bioluminescent algae, and diverse ecosystem. Exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site and New7Wonder of Nature is an unforgettable experience, as guided boat tours allow travelers to explore the heart of this mysterious underground realm. While the journey may present some accessibility challenges, the sheer beauty and uniqueness of the Underground River make it a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure-seekers alike. What awaits those who venture into its dark caverns?
Key Points
- The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River in the Philippines is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New7Wonders of Nature.
- The underground river flows through a vast cave system and offers a serene boat ride experience for visitors.
- Accessibility is limited for wheelchair users and visually impaired individuals, and pregnant women are advised against participation.
- The tour package includes an environmental fee and a personal souvenir, but restrictions apply regarding alcohol, drugs, and required identification.
- Customers have provided mixed feedback, with some highlighting the expertise of the tour guides but noting issues with planning and organization.
Overview of the Underground River
The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, located within the Saint Paul Mountain Range in Palawan, Philippines, is home to the renowned Underground River.
Managed by the Puerto Princesa city government since 1992, this natural wonder has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a New7Wonders of Nature, and a Ramsar Wetland Site.
Situated approximately 80 kilometers north of Puerto Princesa, the Underground River is a unique and captivating destination that attracts visitors from around the world.
Its vast underground cave system and the river flowing through it have made it a must-see attraction in the Philippines.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cavite.
Tour Details and Pricing
For those interested in exploring the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a range of tour options are available.
Prices start from €39.30 per person, and tours typically last a day. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance allows for full refunds. Visitors can also choose a "reserve now, pay later" option.
Tours are led by live guides and feature audio guides in English, and the site is wheelchair accessible.
Sidekick activities like Ugong Rock Zipline, Mangrove Tour, and Sabang Zipline can be added to the excursion.
However, the tour may not be suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or the visually impaired.
Activities and Highlights
Visitors can partake in a variety of side trips and activities when exploring the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park.
The Ugong Rock Zipline offers an adrenaline-fueled ride through the lush forest canopy. The Mangrove Tour provides a serene journey through the park’s mangrove ecosystem, while the Sabang Zipline promises a thrilling descent.
Visitors access the park via road trips to Sabang village, where they board bangkas (kayaks) for the final leg of the journey to the river’s entrance.
Ultimately, the park’s diverse offerings allow travelers to fully enjoy the natural wonders of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Accessibility and Restrictions
Wheelchair users and visually impaired you can’t fully access the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, as the tour isn’t suitable for them.
Pregnant women are also restricted from participating due to the nature of the boat ride.
Visitors must bring a valid passport or ID card, as it’s required for entry.
Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited within the park.
The tour is designed for able-bodied individuals who can navigate the terrain and board the boats.
Despite its limited accessibility, the underground river remains a popular destination, drawing visitors from around the world to experience its natural wonders.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyInclusions and Exclusions
The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park’s tour package includes the environmental fee and a personal souvenir for visitors.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or the visually impaired.
Visitors are required to bring a passport or ID card, as copies are accepted.
Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited on the tour.
Some key points about inclusions and exclusions:
- Includes: Environmental fee, personal souvenir
- Not suitable for: Pregnant women, wheelchair users, visually impaired people
- What to bring: Passport or ID card (copy accepted)
- Not allowed: Alcohol and drugs
Customer Feedback and Ratings
Travelers have provided mixed feedback on the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park tour experience.
Based on a small sample of 2 reviews, the overall rating stands at 3.5 out of 5 stars. Positive remarks highlighted the expertise of tour guide Ralph.
However, some travelers noted issues with the tour company’s planning and organization, such as inconsistent pick-up times and long waiting periods.
While the underground river tour is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New7Wonders of Nature, the customer experience appears to have room for improvement in terms of operational efficiency and logistical coordination.
Prudent travelers may wish to research any recent updates before booking this adventure.
Getting to the National Park
To reach the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, visitors can embark on a road trip to the Sabang village, located 80 kilometers north of Puerto Princesa City.
From Sabang, travelers board traditional bancas (kayaks) that transport them to the park’s entrance. The journey offers striking views of the region’s lush mangrove forests and coastal landscapes.
Once at the park, visitors can explore the underground river, which winds through a cave system and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The park’s highlights include:
- Sidetrips to Ugong Rock Zipline and Mangrove Tour
- Sabang Zipline adventure
- Wheelchair accessibility for certain areas
- Live tour guides and audio guides in English
- Compliance with COVID-19 safety protocols
Exploring the Subterranean Wonder
Once visitors reach the park’s entrance, they embark on an extraordinary journey through the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its captivating underground waterway. Gliding along the serene river in traditional Filipino boats, travelers are treated to a breathtaking display of nature’s ingenuity. Towering limestone cliffs, intricate cave formations, and diverse flora and fauna captivate the senses, making this subterranean expedition a truly unforgettable experience.
| Highlights | Description |
|---|---|
| Limestone Cliffs | Towering rock formations carved by centuries of erosion |
| Bioluminescent Algae | Glowing organisms that illuminate the dark caverns |
| River Cruise | Peaceful boat ride along the tranquil underground waterway |
| Diverse Wildlife | Abundant species of birds, bats, and other cave-dwelling creatures |
| Scenic Vistas | Panoramic views of the lush tropical landscape from the riverbanks |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Swim in the Underground River?
No, visitors cannot swim in the underground river. The tour provides access to the river by boat, but swimming is prohibited to protect the fragile ecosystem and ensure the safety of visitors.
Are There Any Boat Tours Within the Cave?
Yes, boat tours are available for visitors to explore the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. Guests can take a guided boat ride through the underground river’s cave system to see its impressive geological formations.
How Long Can I Spend Inside the Cave?
Visitors can typically spend 45-60 minutes exploring the Underground River’s main cave during their boat tour. The tour allows ample time to marvel at the stunning geological formations and diverse wildlife within the subterranean passageway.
Are There Any Entry Fees for the National Park?
Yes, there is an environmental fee for visiting the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. The fee is included in the tour package, which starts from around €39.30 per person according to the information provided.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks Inside?
Visitors are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks into the national park, though consumption of alcohol is prohibited. Certain restrictions may apply for larger coolers or glass containers to preserve the natural environment.
Recap
The Underground River is a remarkable natural wonder that captivates visitors with its awe-inspiring limestone cliffs, bioluminescent algae, and diverse wildlife. Guided boat tours allow travelers to enjoy this subterranean ecosystem, exploring the vast cave system and witnessing its breathtaking beauty. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New7Wonders of Nature, the Underground River is a must-see destination that showcases the Philippines’ remarkable natural treasures.
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