Underground River With Dinner at Kalui

Palawan’s Underground River is a natural wonder that captivates visitors from around the world. Navigating this UNESCO World Heritage Site by boat, adventurers witness stunning rock formations and diverse wildlife. After the journey, Kalui Restaurant awaits, offering a fusion of Filipino and international cuisine in a warm ambiance. This combination of natural beauty and culinary delight creates an unforgettable experience. But what makes the Underground River and Kalui a must-visit duo? Explore further to uncover the secrets that make this day trip a true gem of Palawan.

This experience made our list of the 9 Best Dinner Tours In Puerto Princesa.

Key Points

1. The Underground River in Palawan, Philippines, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with 2.7 miles of navigable underground river accessible to travelers via guided boat tours.

2. The boat tour provides stunning views of rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites, as well as a diverse ecosystem with endemic flora, fauna, and wildlife.

3. The tour package includes round-trip transfers, licensed guides, necessary permits, and a dining experience at the Kalui Restaurant, which offers a fusion of Filipino and international cuisine.

4. Visitors should book the tour in advance, as it includes a pay-later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, and should follow guidelines such as wearing comfortable, non-slip shoes.

5. Nearby attractions in Palawan, such as the St. Paul Mountain Range and Ugong Rock Formation, provide additional opportunities to explore the region’s natural wonders and biodiversity.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Underground River

The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Palawan, Philippines, features a stunning limestone karst landscape and an impressive underground river system.

Stretching approximately 8.2 kilometers, it’s one of the longest navigable underground rivers in the world. Though the full length is around 5 miles, only about 2.7 miles are open to travelers.

This majestic river showcases a diverse ecosystem, with endemic flora, fauna, and wildlife like bats, swiftlets, and reptiles.

Visitors can embark on guided boat tours to view the spectacular rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites illuminated by spotlights, all while experiencing the wonder of this natural marvel.

Boat Tour Experience

Visitors embark on guided boat tours deep into the cave to witness the underground river’s stunning natural wonders. During the journey, they’ll see spectacular rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites illuminated by strategically placed spotlights.

The river is home to a diverse ecosystem, including endemic species of flora and fauna, and wildlife such as bats, swiftlets, and reptiles. Licensed operators ensure a safe and informative experience, providing insights into the unique environment.

The boat tour offers a rare opportunity to explore one of the longest navigable underground rivers in the world, immersing visitors in Palawan’s remarkable natural beauty.

Booking and Cancellation

Booking the Underground River tour can be done with the option to pay later, providing visitors with flexibility. Prices start from $83.97 per person.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, ensuring peace of mind. The tour includes round-trip transfer, licensed tour guide, permits, audio device, lunch, dinner, and environmental fees.

Participants must provide hotel and contact details for coordination.

• Reservations can be made with the option to pay later
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
• Tour includes round-trip transfer, licensed guide, permits, and meals
• Meeting point requires hotel and contact details

Tour Inclusions and Logistics

Beyond the booking process, the Underground River tour includes a comprehensive package to ensure a seamless experience. The tour includes round-trip transfers, a licensed tour guide, necessary permits, and audio devices to enhance the journey. Visitors can also look forward to a delightful lunch and dinner at the renowned Kalui restaurant. The meeting point requires hotel and contact details for coordination, allowing the organizers to provide a personalized service.

Tour Inclusions
Round-trip Transfer	Licensed Tour Guide	Permits
Audio Device	Lunch	Dinner
Environmental Fees

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Visitor Guidelines

Participants over 95 years old aren’t suitable for this activity.

Visitors are encouraged to bring the following:

• Cash for any additional expenses
• Personal medication, if required
• A medical mask for health and safety
• Comfortable, non-slip shoes for the boat ride

Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited on the tour.

These guidelines ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all. Adhering to them allows visitors to fully enjoy the beauty and wonder of the Underground River, without distractions or unnecessary risks.

Dining at Kalui Restaurant

After the awe-inspiring tour of the Underground River, visitors can indulge in a delightful dining experience at Kalui Restaurant.

Situated in the heart of Puerto Princesa, Kalui offers a unique fusion of Filipino and international cuisine. The restaurant’s warm ambiance and attentive service create the perfect setting to savor the culinary delights.

Guests can expect a menu featuring fresh seafood, local produce, and innovative dishes. From the signature Palawan specialties to creative cocktails, Kalui promises to delight the senses.

This dining experience complements the adventure, allowing visitors to enjoy the local flavors and culture after their underground exploration.

Nearby Attractions

The Underground River and Kalui Restaurant are just the start of the captivating experiences that await visitors to Puerto Princesa.

Nearby, explorers can:

• Hike through the lush St. Paul Mountain Range, home to diverse wildlife and stunning views.
• Discover the Ugong Rock Formation, an impressive karst feature perfect for adventure sports like spelunking and rock climbing.
• Set out on a mangrove-lined boat tour to spot rare birds and other river-dwelling creatures.
• Visit the Iwahig Firefly Watching site for a mesmerizing display of nature’s bioluminescence at night.

These activities showcase Palawan’s natural wonders and provide a well-rounded adventure for travelers seeking to enjoy the region’s remarkable biodiversity.

Getting There

Typically, visitors can reach the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park by taking a 45-minute drive from the city of Puerto Princesa.

Transportation options include private cars, tour vans, or pre-arranged transfers. Some travelers choose to rent a car or motorbike for more flexibility.

Once at the park, visitors must proceed to the visitor center, where they’ll receive instructions and purchase their tour tickets. From the visitor center, it’s a short walk to the boat launch area where the guided tours depart.

Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot on the tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Underground River Accessible for Disabled Visitors?

The Underground River offers limited accessibility for disabled visitors. Some areas may be challenging to navigate, but the tour operator can provide assistance and make reasonable accommodations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks During the Tour?

No, visitors are not allowed to bring their own food and drinks during the Underground River tour. The tour package includes lunch and dinner, and outside food and drinks are generally not permitted on the boat tour.

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Underground River?

Photography is allowed inside the Underground River, but visitors must follow the guidelines set by the tour operators. Flash photography is typically prohibited to protect the delicate cave environment.

What Is the Average Tour Duration?

The average tour duration of the Underground River is approximately 1-2 hours. Visitors embark on guided boat tours that take them deep into the cave to view the stunning rock formations and diverse ecosystem.

Are Life Jackets Provided for the Boat Ride?

Yes, life jackets are provided for the boat ride on the Underground River. The tour operators ensure all safety equipment is in place to provide a secure and enjoyable experience for visitors.

Recap

The Underground River and Kalui Restaurant offer an unforgettable combination of natural beauty and culinary delight. Visitors can enjoy the stunning river journey, then savor a fusion of Filipino and international cuisine in a warm ambiance. This tour provides a perfect blend of adventure and cultural experience, making it an ideal way to explore the wonders of Palawan.

You can check if your dates are available here: