Underground River Without Lunch

Exploring the underground river in Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park without a lunch break is an appealing option for visitors seeking a more efficient and streamlined excursion. This 8-hour tour provides the opportunity to marvel at the stunning limestone formations and diverse wildlife along the 8-kilometer waterway, all while maintaining a focused, uninterrupted experience. Priced at a reasonable rate, the tour’s inclusions, such as motorized boat transfers and a licensed English-speaking guide, ensure a safe and accessible journey through this UNESCO World Heritage site. For those eager to enjoy the park’s natural wonders without the added complication of a mealtime, this tour may be the perfect choice.

This experience made our list of the 7 Best Lunch Experiences In Puerto Princesa.

Key Points

• The Underground River tour is priced at £28.21 per person and does not include lunch.
• The 8-hour excursion includes boat transfers, life vests, a licensed guide, and an environmental fee, but not a meal.
• The tour is wheelchair-accessible and suitable for most visitors, excluding those over 95 years old.
• Participants are advised to bring cash, sun protection, and a waterproof bag, as alcohol and drugs are prohibited.
• The 45-minute boat ride and guided exploration of the 8-kilometer underground river are the core experiences of the tour.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The activity on offer is an Underground River tour without lunch, priced from £28.21 per person.

This 8-hour excursion allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and guests can reserve their spot now and pay later.

The tour includes motorized boat transfers to the cave, life vests, a licensed English-speaking guide, a lifeguard, and an environmental fee.

While the tour is wheelchair accessible, it isn’t suitable for people over 95 years of age.

Visitors can meet the tour group at their hotel or anywhere in Puerto Princesa, but should bring cash as alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed.

Location and Significance

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is a protected area located in the Saint Paul Mountain Range, situated approximately 80 kilometers (50 miles) north of Puerto Princesa. This remarkable site has been recognized for its global significance, being designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 and one of the New7Wonders of Nature in 2012. Plus, the park was recognized as a Ramsar Wetland Site in 2012, further highlighting its ecological importance.

Designation	Year
UNESCO World Heritage Site	1999
New7Wonders of Nature	2012
Ramsar Wetland Site	2012

Access to the park is via road trips to Sabang, followed by boat rides to the park’s entrance.

Tour Inclusions

The tour package includes a motorized boat transfer to the cave entrance, as well as the provision of life vests and other necessary water safety equipment.

The tour also provides:

• A licensed English-speaking guide to lead the exploration
• A dedicated lifeguard and water guide to ensure visitors’ safety
• The required environmental fee for accessing the UNESCO-listed national park.

These inclusions aim to deliver a seamless and secure underground river experience for visitors, allowing them to focus on seeing the natural wonders of this unique geological marvel.

Accessibility and Restrictions

Wheelchair-accessible, the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park caters to a wide range of visitors.

The underground river tour is suitable for most people, with the exception of those over 95 years of age. This is due to the nature of the boat ride and the physical demands of navigating the cave system.

However, the park’s facilities, including the motorized boat transfers, are designed to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges.

Visitors can rest assured that the appropriate safety equipment, such as life vests, will be provided to ensure a comfortable and secure experience.

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Customer Feedback

According to the available customer feedback, visitors have consistently rated the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park tour a perfect 5/5.

The tour has received glowing reviews, with customers praising the following:

• The knowledgeable and engaging tour guides who provide valuable insights about the park’s history and ecology
• The seamless organization and coordination of the tour, from hotel pickups to boat transfers
• The breathtaking beauty of the underground river and its surrounding landscape, exceeding visitors’ expectations

Meeting Information

Visitors can meet the tour group at their hotel or any convenient location in Puerto Princesa.

The meeting point is flexible, allowing travelers to start the adventure from a spot that suits them best. This arrangement ensures a hassle-free experience, as the tour operator will handle the transportation to the boat launch site.

Participants should arrive at the designated meeting time to avoid delays and ensure a smooth start to the underground river exploration.

It’s important to note that the tour requires cash payments, and the use of alcohol and drugs is strictly prohibited during the activity for safety reasons.

Preparing for the Tour

Travelers should start preparing for their underground river adventure by packing the essentials. This includes:

• Comfortable, quick-drying clothing and sturdy, non-slip shoes
• Sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen
• Waterproof bag or pouch to keep personal items dry

It’s also important to bring cash for the environmental fee and to leave any alcohol or illicit drugs at home, as they’re strictly prohibited in the national park.

Exploring the Subterranean River

Upon arriving at the Sabang Wharf, adventurers embark on a short boat ride to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park.

Once there, they’re equipped with life vests and led by a licensed English-speaking guide. The motorized boat navigates the 8-kilometer underground river, allowing visitors to admire the stunning limestone formations and diverse wildlife, including monitor lizards and several bird species.

The tour lasts approximately 45 minutes, providing ample time to soak in the natural wonder of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and Ramsar Wetland.

Throughout the experience, safety is a top priority, with lifeguards and water guides ensuring a secure and enjoyable journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Underground River?

The best time to visit the Underground River is during the dry season from November to June, when weather conditions are ideal for the boat tour and visitors can fully enjoy the natural wonders of the site.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Children on the Tour?

The tour is not suitable for people over 95 years old, but there are no specific age restrictions for children. Younger participants are welcome, though parents should consider their children’s abilities and ensure they can fully enjoy the experience.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Ride?

Passengers are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the boat ride to the Underground River. However, alcohol and illegal drugs are strictly prohibited on the tour.

Are There Any Souvenirs or Shops Available at the Park?

There are souvenir shops and stalls located at the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park where visitors can purchase local handicrafts, shirts, and other mementos of their visit. However, food and drinks aren’t available for purchase within the park itself.

Are There Any Additional Activities or Sights to See in the Area?

The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park offers several additional activities and sights, including hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and visiting nearby beaches and islands. Visitors can explore the lush rainforest and discover the park’s diverse ecosystems.

Recap

The underground river tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore a UNESCO World Heritage site. With its breathtaking limestone formations, diverse wildlife, and informative guides, the 8-hour excursion provides an enriching experience for visitors. Priced at £28.21 per person, the tour’s inclusions and accessibility make it an attractive option for those seeking an adventurous yet safe exploration of the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park.

You can check if your dates are available here: