3-in-1 Adventure: Underground River, Zipline ride, and Mangrove Forest Tour

If you’re looking to pack a lot of excitement and stunning scenery into one day on Palawan, this 3-in-1 tour might just be your perfect fit. Combining visits to the UNESCO-listed Underground River, a swift yet breathtaking zipline ride, and an educational mangrove forest tour, it covers some of the most iconic natural sites on the island.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances adventure with authenticity. The tour runs in small groups, making it more personal—no giant buses or endless crowds here. Plus, the cost of $79 per person offers a pretty good bang for your buck considering the number of activities packed into the day.

However, with a long day that lasts around 8 to 10 hours, it’s not for the faint of heart or those with limited mobility. Also, the drive from Puerto Princesa City is about two hours, which can be a bit winding—so if you’re prone to motion sickness, bringing some Dramamine might be wise.

This tour suits travelers craving a diverse experience—whether you’re a nature lover, adventure junkie, or someone eager to tick off multiple highlights in one go. It’s ideal for those who want an efficient, well-organized day without sacrificing authentic encounters, especially with knowledgeable guides leading the way.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines underground river, ziplining, and mangrove boat tour for a full day of adventure.
• Perfect for small groups: Offers an intimate feel with a maximum of 13 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
• Includes essentials: Lunch, safety gear, transfers, and entrance fees are covered, providing great value.
• Long but rewarding day: Expect around 8-10 hours, with some travel time from Puerto Princesa.
• Highly rated guides: Guides like Roman and Jay earn praise for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Mixed reviews on zipline length: While the zipline is beautiful, some say it’s shorter than expected, so manage expectations accordingly.

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure kicks off early, with pickup from your hotel or Puerto Princesa airport at 7:00 am. The transportation is air-conditioned and comfortable, which is appreciated after the drive from the city to the Sabang area. Reviewers consistently mention how seamless and hassle-free the hotel pickup and drop-off are, thanks to friendly guides like Rich and Marjorie.

The drive itself lasts about two hours, giving you time to enjoy the scenery, but note that it’s quite windy—something to consider if you’re sensitive to motion sickness. A few reviews suggest bringing a towel or aqua shoes for the activities, especially for those planning to swim or wade through the mangroves.

Puerto Princesa Underground River

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the centerpiece of the tour. It’s one of the longest underground rivers in the world, and the experience of gliding through the dark, mysterious caves filled with stalactites and stalagmites is unforgettable. The entrance area is well-organized, with guides providing an informative commentary via personal audio devices.

Many reviews describe this as the standout moment, with guests noting how quiet and peaceful the river feels, offering a moment of serenity amid the adventure. The guide’s knowledge enhances the experience, with one reviewer calling the guide “incredible” and mentioning how the tour was organized in every detail.

Mangrove Forest Tour

Next up is the mangrove paddle boat tour—a gentle cruise that offers insights into this vital ecosystem. The guides here are praised for their friendliness and depth of knowledge about how mangroves influence local ecology and protect the coast. The boat ride lasts about an hour and provides plenty of photo opportunities, especially with the lush greenery and wildlife, including the elusive monkeys sometimes spotted on the walk out to the caves.

Reviewers appreciate the educational aspect of this stop, with many highlighting how the guides make complex ecological topics accessible and engaging. It’s a calmer, more contemplative part of the day, perfect for nature lovers looking to learn while enjoying a peaceful boat ride.

Sabang X Zipline

The adrenaline rush comes with the 800-meter zipline, offering stunning views of the sea and mountains. It lasts about 45 minutes, but some mention it feels quite short—yet the thrill and panoramic vistas make up for it. The safety equipment is provided, and guides are attentive, ensuring everyone feels secure.

While a few reviewers mention that the zipline wasn’t as long or intense as some might hope, most agree that it’s fun and beautiful. It’s a highlight especially for those who enjoy quick, exhilarating rides with spectacular scenery.

Lunch and Additional Info

Lunch is included in the tour and is often described as a buffet-style Filipino meal with a good variety of dishes. Guests consistently praise the quality and flavor, with some saying it’s one of the best meals they had during their trip. Dietary restrictions are accommodated, making it a comfortable stop for most.

The tour also covers entrance fees and safety equipment, simplifying the process and allowing you to focus on enjoying the activities.

Reviews and Insights

The reviews give us some helpful insights. Several highlight the professionalism and friendliness of guides like Roman, Jay, and Marjorie, emphasizing how their knowledge and approachable manner elevate the experience. One reviewer mentions that the guides often go beyond expectations, answering questions not directly related to the tour, adding a personal touch.

On the flip side, some note that the zipline is shorter than expected and suggest that travelers with mobility issues be aware of the long drive and walking involved. A few mention that the van ride can be a bit crowded and bumpy, especially with 13 people packed into a small vehicle, but overall, guests find the organization smooth.

The Value of the Tour

At $79 per person, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. You get three distinct activities—each showcasing a different aspect of Palawan’s natural beauty—plus lunch and all entrance fees included. The small-group format enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized interaction and fewer crowds.

The tour’s inclusiveness and well-organized logistics mean you won’t have to worry about extra costs or navigating logistics alone. It’s particularly valuable for travelers short on time but eager to see three of Palawan’s top attractions in one day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

It’s perfect for adventure seekers who enjoy a mix of exploration, scenic views, and light physical activity. It’s also suitable for those who value guided insights—the guides are well-regarded for their knowledge—and for travelers who appreciate authentic experiences without the hassle of organizing each component independently.

However, if you’re looking for a longer zipline experience or have mobility constraints, you might want to consider other options, or prepare for a somewhat rushed schedule.

Final Thoughts

This 3-in-1 adventure on Palawan is a fantastic way to see some of the island’s most iconic sights without spending multiple days or breaking the bank. The combination of natural wonders, active adventures, and educational stops makes it appealing to a broad range of travelers—from nature lovers and thrill-seekers to those simply wanting a comprehensive day out.

The experienced guides and seamless logistics are assets that turn this into a smooth, enjoyable experience. While the zipline may be shorter than some expect, the overall value, scenic beauty, and variety make it a worthwhile choice.

For travelers craving an authentic, well-organized, and varied day trip, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s especially suited for those who want to maximize their time and experience Palawan’s most photogenic spots with expert guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip air-conditioned vehicle transfers are included, making pickups and drop-offs easy and hassle-free.

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 7:00 am, allowing for a full day of activities.

Are safety equipment and lunch provided?
Yes, safety gear for the zipline and a buffet lunch are included in the price.

How long is the drive from Puerto Princesa?
The drive to Sabang takes around two hours, which is standard for this kind of tour.

What’s the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 13 travelers, promoting a more intimate experience.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the underground river, mangrove tour, and zipline are covered.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts, with a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While it generally suits those with moderate physical fitness, children should be comfortable with walking and some physical activity.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, a towel, aqua shoes (if planning to swim), sunscreen, and a hat are recommended. Bringing motion sickness remedies is also wise.

Is the zipline scary?
Most find the zipline fun and scenic rather than frightening, but it’s relatively short and doesn’t require previous experience.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Palawan’s natural beauty and adventure. It balances adventure, education, and culture, making it a smart choice for travelers wanting a memorable day without the hassle of planning each activity separately. If you’re eager for a day packed with scenic views, light thrills, and local flavor, this 3-in-1 tour is definitely worth considering.