Underground River In Puerto Princesa – A Complete Guide

The Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour was something we didn’t expect to be so beautiful. Thankful that we chose to visit, here’s all the info you need.

How To Get To The Puerto Princesa Underground River

The Puerto Princesa Underground River is actually located in the town of Sabang.

It takes around 2 hours to drive from Puerto Princesa City.

The best option is to book a Puerto Princesa: Underground River Full-Day Trip in advance. This way everything from pick up, to lunch and fees are included.

The Puerto Princesa underground river tour is a whole day experience starting from Puerto Princesa City. It’s not offered as a half-day tour due to the 2 hour journey each way.

For those short on time, or that prefer everything to be organised for them, there are some awesome tours on Get Your Guide available to book in advance.

Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour Prices

There are many packages available for the Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour.

Most range from 1,500 – 2,500 pesos per person.

All underground river tours should also include hotel transfers and a buffet lunch.

If you’re looking for a trusted tour operator to book with, we can recommend Corazon Travel & Tours.

Some tours do not include the environment fee of 150 pesos per person. This is to be paid upon arrival at the underground river so double check with your tour operator whether this is included or not beforehand.

The operating hours are between 06:30 AM – 04:30 PM.

For most tours, children aged 3 years or below are free. Child rate applies to children ages 4-9. Adult rate applies to children ages 10 and above.

What’s Included

• Roundtrip van transfers with A/C from any hotel within Puerto Princesa 
• Licensed Tour Guide
• Buffet lunch
• Fees and rentals
• Boat hired
• Terminal fee 
• Cave entrance fee (permit) 
• Audio permit / device    
• Wharfage assessment
• Underground River tour

Most tours also includes bottled water but it’s always recommended to take your own!

The History Of The Puerto Princesa Underground River

In 2010, exploring environmentalists and geologists discovered that the underground river had a second floor. Hence there are small waterfalls actually inside the cave.

Along with this discovery, they also found a cave dome, rock formations and a deep water hole in the river. As well as all this they also discovered some large bats and marine creatures.

Consequently, in 2011, the underground river was named as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. Making it the pride of not only Puerto Princesa but also the Philippines.

(The Puerto Princesa Subterranean National Park has been a Unesco World Heritage Site since 1999.)

What To Expect On The Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour

It takes 2 hours to drive to Sabang Wharf from Puerto Princesa. Stopping en route to view other natural attractions, such as Elephant Mountain.

From Sabang Wharf you catch a small 6 seater catamaran just 15 minutes around the coastline arriving at Sabang Beach. Which is also the entrance to the cave.

The Puerto Princesa underground river tour lasts approximately 45 minutes and takes you into the first 1.5 kilometres of the Underground River cave.

You will also experience the beauty of stalagmites and stalactites, which took thousands of years to form, whilst also mixing among the thousands of bats that inhabit the cave.

On the outside the water is clear and the surroundings are beautiful. Whilst on the inside the dark cave creates an eerie yet interesting atmosphere.

Definitely a spot to add to your Philippines bucket list!

Where To Stay In Puerto Princesa

Luxury – Best Western Plus The Ivywall Hotel

Featuring free WiFi access and a restaurant, Best Western Plus The Ivywall Hotel offers accommodation in Puerto Princesa, 4.3 miles from Honda Bay.

The hotel has a fitness centre and indoor pool, and guests can enjoy a drink at the bar. Free private parking is also available on site.

All rooms come with air conditioning and a flat-screen TV with cable channels.

Every room comes with a private bathroom and a bidet. Bathrobes and slippers are provided. 

Operating a 24-hour front desk, the friendly staff can assist guests with laundry/dry cleaning services, currency exchange and luggage storage.

Massage and transport services are also available upon request.

Mid-budget – Hue Hotels and Resorts

Offering an outdoor swimming pool and a restaurant, Hue Hotels and Resorts Puerto Princesa Managed by HII is set in Puerto Princesa City.

Free private parking is available, and free WiFi is available throughout the property.

All rooms come with air conditioning, a cable TV and a personal safe. A hairdryer and shower facility with free toiletries are provided in the en suite bathroom. 

Guests can enjoy daily buffet breakfast while Matiz Restaurant is also open for all day dining.

Budget – Golden Pension House

Set 5 miles from Honda Bay, Golden Pension House, Palawan provides accommodation with a garden, a terrace and a 24-hour front desk for your convenience.

Both WiFi and private parking are accessible at the bed and breakfast free of charge. 

Offering a patio, every unit comes with air conditioning, a dining area and a seating area with a satellite flat-screen TV. There is also a private bathroom with bidet and free toiletries. 

An Asian breakfast is available every morning at Golden Pension House, Palawan.

For more places to stay in Puerto Princesa, you can check the latest prices on Booking.com.

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