Puerto Princesa City Underground River Cave Tour excursion

Travelers seeking a blend of awe-inspiring natural beauty and adventure will find the Puerto Princesa Underground River tour hard to resist. This excursion takes you into one of the world’s 7 wonders of nature, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a RAMSAR wetland reserve, nestled within the St. Paul mountain range on Palawan’s west coast. The tour promises a fascinating journey through mesmerizing caves, lush forests, and a peaceful paddleboat cruise that offers a unique peek beneath the earth’s surface.

What we love about this tour is how it combines eco-tourism with comfortable, well-organized logistics—making the experience accessible and enjoyable. The guides, often praised for their knowledge, help bring the history and geology of the cave to life, enriching your visit with stories and insights. However, a key consideration is the long waiting times reported by some travelers, especially for boat transfers and entry to the caves, which can stretch the day longer than anticipated.

This tour is best suited for adventurers, nature lovers, and those eager to see one of the Philippines’ most iconic sights. It’s ideal for travelers who don’t mind a full day of activity and are prepared for some waiting, but also appreciate a well-organized experience that balances comfort with authenticity.

Key Points

• Stunning Natural Wonder: The underground river is a UNESCO-listed marvel, offering a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the trip with engaging commentary, making the tour richer.
• Value for Money: At $52 per person, including transfers and lunch, the tour offers solid value considering the sights and experience provided.
• Long Waiting Times: Expect some delays, particularly for boat transfers and entry procedures.
• Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned vans and boat transfers make the day more pleasant.
• Weather Dependent: The tour can be canceled in bad weather for safety reasons, so flexibility may be necessary.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Pickup and Transportation

Most travelers will appreciate free pickup from city center hotels in Puerto Princesa, streamlining the start of what’s usually a 6-8 hour adventure. If you’re staying outside the city, a small extra fee applies—something to keep in mind if you’re in a more remote resort. The journey to Sabang, where the caves are located, involves a scenic drive highlighting Palawan’s lush greenery, often with spontaneous water buffalo sightings—an unexpected delight for nature enthusiasts.

Travelers have noted that the van ride can be bumpy and a bit cramped, especially if you’re on the taller side, as some reviews mention squeezing into a three-row vehicle. The roads are winding and curvy, which might set off car sickness in sensitive travelers, so consider bringing motion sickness remedies if needed.

The Trip to Sabang: Scenic but Lengthy

Once on the road, you’ll enjoy the lush landscapes that Palawan is famous for. Many reviews highlight how the drive alone offers a glimpse of Palawan’s verdant countryside, with some reviewers describing it as “gorgeous.” However, the journey isn’t short—expect about 45 minutes to over an hour before arriving at the port, with some travelers waiting over 90 minutes for the boat transfer to the caves.

The Boat Ride: Wet and Wonderful

The boat trip to the underground river itself is one of the trip’s highlights. The boats are paddle-powered, and you’ll want water shoes or slippers—many reviewers recommend this because feet tend to get wet when embarking and disembarking. The boat ride offers panoramic views of the coastline and forested cliffs, with some travelers noting it’s among the most stunning parts of their day.

A common tip from reviews is to bring water shoes, as flip flops or sandals might not be suitable for calf-high water crossings. The boat is usually crowded, but the experience is considered worth it for most visitors. As one reviewer quipped, “Feet will get wet when embarking the boat, so go in rubber shoes or slippers.”

Entering the Cave: A Geological Marvel

Once at the site, you’ll be guided into the centuries-old cave system. The guided tour includes an audio guide that many found very helpful in understanding the cave’s features, stalactites, stalagmites, and the underground river itself. The cave is a natural masterpiece, with some reviewers describing it as a “one-of-a-kind” experience.

Expect some waiting—around 90 minutes or more—before getting into the paddle boats and entering the river. This delay is a common theme among reviews, so patience is part of the package. Once inside, the cool, dark passageways, illuminated by artificial lighting, reveal stunning formations and the flowing river—truly a sight to behold.

The Return and Lunch

After the boat tour, most travelers are treated to a buffet lunch. Many reviews mention that the lunch is conveniently located close to the national park dock and offers good value, especially considering the full day of activity. The experience is well-coordinated, with guides and drivers ensuring smooth transitions between stops.

Overall Logistics and Comfort

Transportation is generally smooth, with air-conditioned vans taking you to and from the site. However, the long wait times and occasional delays can test your patience. Some reviews mention the feeling of “organized chaos,” especially during busy times when multiple groups are trying to navigate the same procedures.

Weather and Safety Considerations

Bad weather can lead to cancellations, as the tour operator prioritizes safety. This wasn’t a major issue for most reviewers, but it’s worth noting if you’re traveling during the rainy season. The tour provider offers refunds or alternative dates if cancellations occur, ensuring you’re not left in the lurch.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Several reviewers highlighted the knowledgeable guides, mentioning guides like Mall who provided detailed explanations and friendly service. These guides help bridge the gap between a mere sightseeing trip and a more meaningful experience, explaining the geological and environmental significance of the caves.

Others pointed out the long waiting times—some waited 45 minutes for the first boat, and up to an hour for the second—highlighting the importance of patience. One traveler humorously noted that their “feet got wet” and advised water shoes, emphasizing the casual, adventure vibe of the trip.

The scenic drive, the boat ride, and the cave system combined made many feel it was “absolutely worth it,” especially for those eager to tick off a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The cost of $52 covers all fees, taxes, boat transfers, lunch, and environmental fees, providing good value when considering the overall experience.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a unique blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural significance. Expect a full day of traveling, waiting, and exploring, but with plenty of moments worth cherishing. The underground river cave is spectacular, and the guides make the experience informative and engaging.

For adventurous travelers who don’t mind some delays and long transfers, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suitable for those interested in UNESCO sites and eco-tourism, with the added bonus of scenic drives and wildlife sightings.

However, if you’re looking for a quick, stress-free activity or have mobility issues, the waiting times and long bus rides might be a drawback. It’s best suited for travelers who value authentic, well-organized tours with a knowledgeable guide and are prepared for a full, sometimes tiring day.

FAQ

How long does the entire tour take?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, including transfers, waiting, and the cave visit.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes van transportation with air conditioning from your hotel (or extra fee if outside city center) and boat transfers to the caves.

Do I need to bring my own water shoes?
It’s highly recommended. Many travelers found feet get wet, so rubber shoes or slippers are best for comfort and safety.

Can I book this tour if I’m arriving from a cruise ship?
Yes, but only for cruise ships departing after 4:30 pm due to timing constraints. It’s essential to inform the tour provider of your cruise details.

What’s included in the price?
The price of $52 covers boat transfers, van transportation, lunch, all fees and taxes, and a government environmental development fee.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but specifics aren’t detailed. Expect some waiting and physical activity, so consider your comfort level.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Bad weather can lead to tour cancellations for safety reasons. In such cases, refunds or alternative arrangements are offered.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
While most participants can join, the long waiting times, boat transfers, and walking inside the cave might pose challenges for some.

Do I need to tip the guides?
Tipping is not included and is at your discretion; most reviews don’t mention it explicitly, but friendly guides are always appreciated.

To sum it up, the Puerto Princesa Underground River Cave Tour offers a balanced mix of natural wonder, cultural significance, and engaging guided commentary. It’s especially valuable for those who love exploring UNESCO sites and don’t mind a full day of adventure with some waiting. With its stunning scenery, knowledgeable guides, and good overall value, this tour makes for an unforgettable experience that truly showcases Palawan’s beauty—and the power of mother nature.