Underground River Tour From Puerto Princesa City (Private)

The Underground River Tour from Puerto Princesa City offers an exciting private excursion to one of the world’s natural wonders. Departing early in the morning, this full-day adventure takes visitors on an audio-guided exploration of the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Throughout the day, travelers can enjoy the area’s stunning geological formations, paddle through serene underground caves, and indulge in a delightful buffet lunch. With seamless transportation, knowledgeable guides, and a personalized experience, this tour promises to showcase the breathtaking natural beauty of the Philippines’ Palawan region. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a unique adventure, this excursion is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• Full-day private tour from Puerto Princesa City to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Puerto Princesa Subterranean River.
• Includes audio-guided exploration of the caves and a guided paddle boat ride along the river.
• Buffet lunch and all necessary permits, entrance fees, and transportation within the city are provided.
• Tour offers personalized experience with a DOT Accredited guide and community cave guide.
• Mixed customer reviews highlight the stunning natural beauty but note room for improvement in weather policies and customer service.

Tour Overview

The tour is a full-day excursion that departs from Puerto Princesa City at 7:00 AM.

It’s offered by CTPH TOUR, a provider based in Puerto Princesa, Philippines.

The tour features a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Puerto Princesa subterranean river, an audio-guided tour of the caves, and a guided paddle boat ride across the river.

A buffet lunch is included, and the tour is private, allowing for a personalized experience.

The price varies based on group size, starting from €120.95.

Reviews of the tour on Viator and Tripadvisor have an overall rating of 3.0 based on 2 reviews.

Tour Highlights

Visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Puerto Princesa subterranean river lies at the heart of this full-day excursion.

Guests will embark on an audio-guided tour through the caves, learning about the natural wonder. They’ll then board a guided paddle boat and cruise across the river, taking in the stunning geological formations.

A delicious buffet lunch is included, allowing travelers to refuel after the exploration. Throughout the tour, the private nature ensures a personalized experience tailored to each group’s needs and interests.

From the awe-inspiring caves to the tranquil river crossing, this tour highlights the best of the Puerto Princesa underground wonder.

Inclusions

This tour includes an array of amenities to ensure a comprehensive and enjoyable experience. The inclusions feature van transfers within Puerto Princesa City, a DOT Accredited tour guide, and a community cave guide during the exploration. A buffet lunch, permits and entrance fees, a 1-hour cave exploration, and an audio guide fee are also provided. Plus, an environmental fee and non-compulsory tipping are included in the package.

Inclusions	Description
Transportation	Van transfers within Puerto Princesa
Tour Guides	DOT Accredited and community guides
Meals	Buffet lunch
Fees	Permits, entrance, environmental
Other	Audio guide, non-compulsory tipping

Meeting and Pickup

According to the tour details, pickup points are available at select locations within Puerto Princesa City. The tour provider will confirm the pickup details at the time of booking.

It’s important to note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps during the tour. Most travelers can participate in the excursion, but it’s essential to consider any mobility or accessibility needs beforehand.

The pickup and drop-off service is included in the tour package, ensuring a seamless start and end to the underground river experience.

Customer Feedback

The customer reviews for the Underground River Tour from Puerto Princesa City offer a mixed perspective.

While one reviewer praised the tour’s beauty and experience, another noted issues with cancellation and communication. The negative review mentioned the trip being canceled due to weather, and problems with rescheduling and poor communication from the agency.

On the positive side, one customer highlighted the stunning caves and enjoyable tour.

The reviews suggest the tour can be an excellent experience, but also highlight the need for better weather contingencies and communication from the provider.

Key takeaways include:

• Mixed reviews, with both positive and negative experiences
• Praise for the beauty of the underground river and caves
• Concerns over weather-related cancellations and communication issues
• Need for improved weather policies and customer service
• Overall a scenic tour, but with room for improvement in certain areas

Exploring the Caves

Visitors embark on an audio-guided exploration of the magnificent Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Navigating the cave’s vast chambers, they admire the stunning rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites that have formed over millennia. The audio guide provides in-depth commentary, educating them about the river’s geological history and the unique ecosystem that thrives within.

As they paddle across the serene, mirror-like waters, a sense of awe and wonder envelops them, immersing them in the tranquility of this underground wonderland.

The guided tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the natural beauty and ecological significance of this extraordinary natural marvel.

Dining Experience

After exploring the magnificent caves, visitors can enjoy a delightful buffet lunch included in the tour package.

The lunch offers a variety of local and international dishes, catering to diverse tastes. The menu may feature:

• Freshly grilled seafood, such as fish and shrimp
• Authentic Filipino dishes like adobo and sinigang
• Vegetarian options like stir-fried vegetables and tofu
• Steamed rice and assorted condiments
• A selection of fresh tropical fruits for dessert

The buffet provides a satisfying and authentic dining experience, allowing visitors to savor the flavors of the Philippines while taking a break from the adventure.

Getting to the Site

Getting to the site begins with a convenient pickup service provided by the tour operator. Guests can select a pickup point within Puerto Princesa City, and the operator will arrange for a van transfer.

Once everyone’s onboard, the journey towards the UNESCO World Heritage site commences. The drive takes approximately 1-2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Along the way, travelers can admire the lush, tropical landscapes that the Philippines is renowned for.

Upon arrival at the site, guests will proceed through the necessary permit and entrance procedures before embarking on the guided exploration of the magnificent subterranean river.

The tour ensures a seamless and hassle-free experience from start to finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable and light clothing is recommended. Wear closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain and bring a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent to protect against the elements.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along the Tour Route?

There are restroom facilities available at the tour’s starting point and at the pier before boarding the boats. However, there are no restroom stops along the underground river portion of the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

According to the tour information, visitors can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a buffet lunch is already included in the tour package, so bringing additional food may not be necessary.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. Infants are welcome to join, though they must sit on laps. Most travelers can participate in the tour’s activities, making it accessible to visitors of all ages.

Is It Possible to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended. The tour provider offers flexible options to extend the tour, allowing visitors to spend more time exploring the UNESCO-listed Puerto Princesa subterranean river and surrounding natural attractions.

Recap

The Underground River Tour from Puerto Princesa City offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the UNESCO-protected Puerto Princesa Subterranean River. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and a delightful dining experience, this private excursion allows visitors to enjoy the area’s breathtaking natural beauty and gain a deeper appreciation for this remarkable natural wonder. Whether seeking an educational adventure or a chance to disconnect from the world, this tour provides an unforgettable experience.