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Travelers seeking a true natural wonder in Palawan will find this tour to be a well-rounded experience. It combines a UNESCO World Heritage site visit, scenic stops, and exciting side activities, all in one day. What we love most is how smoothly the entire experience is organized, with small-group intimacy, knowledgeable guides, and seamless transport. Plus, the inclusion of a buffet lunch gives you a taste of local flavors, making the day even more satisfying.
One thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves some travel time—roughly 2 to 3 hours to get to the underground river, which can be a bumpy ride. If you’re prone to motion sickness, it’s worth bringing medication. This tour really suits travelers who enjoy nature, appreciate well-coordinated trips, and don’t mind a bit of adventure with optional activities like ziplining.
Key Points
– Comprehensive itinerary covers the underground river, side activities, and scenic stops
– Small-group setting offers more guide interaction and quicker pace
– Value for money with inclusions like boat transfers, buffet lunch, and a licensed guide
– Authentic local experience through community-based activities like the zipline
– Flexible options for side activities, with optional ziplining and paddle boats
– Good for most travelers but consider travel time and physical activity levels
Unlocking Palawan’s Natural Marvel: The UNESCO Underground River
If you’re planning a trip to Puerto Princesa, the Underground River is a must-see. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s one of the longest navigable underground rivers in the world, and visiting it feels like stepping into a hidden world of stalactites, stalagmites, and mysterious caves. This tour offers a well-structured way to experience this marvel without the hassle of organizing transport or guides yourself.
The tour’s main highlight is the boat ride through the cave system, a mesmerizing journey beneath the earth’s surface. The boats are maneuvered skillfully by guides, who are praised for their expertise and friendly demeanor. Guests often mention how the “men were so skilled in maneuvering us around the cave,” adding to the awe of the experience. The caves themselves are filled with fascinating formations, and the accompanying audio guides help paint a vivid picture of what you’re seeing—something many reviewers appreciated, describing the audio as “well done.”
An Itinerary Packed with Highlights
The tour is designed to maximize your day with a mix of natural and cultural sights, as well as some fun side activities. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect:
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Stop 1: Puerto Princesa Underground River
This is the star attraction. The journey inside the river takes about 45 minutes, and the admission ticket is included in the tour price. Expect to see impressive stalactites and stalagmites—some formations look like sculptures—and learn about the cave’s 20-kilometer length (though only a portion is visited). Reviewers like Nicole_B, who called it “absolutely beautiful,” emphasize the awe-inspiring nature of this site, describing it as “spectacular” and “a must-see.”
Be prepared for the potential crowds, especially during peak season, which can make the experience a bit busier. The boats are operated by experienced guides, ensuring safety and smooth navigation through this underground maze.
Stop 2: Sabang Beach and Ziplining
After the cave, you’ll head to Sabang Beach, which is more than just a scenic stop. It’s where some guests opt for the ziplining experience, which has received high praise for its thrill and stunning water views. The zipline is run by a cooperative supporting local livelihoods, so your participation helps the community.
Reviewers mention that the zipline “was stunning,” and people like Valerie_T found their first ziplining experience “amazing.” Keep in mind, there’s a bit of a trek to reach the start point, and sturdy footwear is recommended—many suggest wearing water shoes or flip-flops, as your feet will get wet. Some guests, like Bruce_H, appreciated the scenic views but noted that the trek can be “a bit harrowing,” so it’s not for travelers with mobility issues.
Stop 3: Sabang Beach Wharf and Lunch
This next stop is the beach wharf where the boat departs for the underground river. Here, you’ll find the restaurant for a buffet lunch, which many reviewers found quite satisfying. Rica_N called it “very good,” and it’s a great way to refuel after the morning’s adventures. Swimming isn’t permitted, but the beach area offers picturesque views and a chance to relax.
The boat transfer from the wharf to the cave is about 15 minutes each way, and travelers often describe it as “exhilarating,” adding a fun element to the day.
Extra Activities and Community Support
A key element of this tour is its support for local communities. The zipline and paddle boat experiences are operated by local cooperatives, helping residents sustain their livelihoods. If you choose to do the paddle boat or zipline, your participation contributes directly to their income.
Many reviews highlight the value of these activities, with some choosing to skip the paddle boat but still enjoying the scenic drive and stops. Others appreciated the opportunity to try ziplining for the first time, describing it as “stunning” and “a great addition to the tour.”
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Logistics and Practicalities
The tour costs around $53 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the inclusions: round-trip hotel transfers within about 15km of the airport, boat rides, a licensed guide, and a buffet lunch. Many travelers think this represents good value, especially given the diverse experiences packed into one day.
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 9 hours, depending on group size and the activities chosen. It’s operated in small groups of up to 12 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and allows guides to engage more personally. Pickup is offered from hotels within a 10-mile radius, making it fairly convenient for most visitors.
The only extra cost is the environmental fee (around USD 3), payable locally. Photos and souvenirs are not included, so if capturing memories is a priority, consider bringing extra cash or your own camera.
The Guides and Transportation
Guides like Jed and Rosalyn have received multiple mentions for their friendliness, humor, and wealth of knowledge. Reviewers appreciated their efforts to keep things on schedule and make the experience enjoyable. Transport is by air-conditioned vehicle, making the long drive comfortable, even if the roads can be winding and bumpy, as some guests noted.
One reviewer recommended bringing motion sickness medication due to the winding roads, which is a good tip for sensitive travelers. The group size keeps things cozy without feeling crowded, allowing everyone to ask questions and get tailored insights.
The Side Activities: Are They Worth It?
The ziplining experience garners high praise for its stunning views over the water. Many reviewers said it was “beautiful,” “fun,” and “exhilarating.” While some guests chose not to participate, they enjoyed the scenic drive and the relaxing beach vibe.
The paddle boat tour, though appreciated by some, was described as “interesting but not something I would go out of my way to recommend,” by a reviewer who preferred the zipline. Nonetheless, supporting local initiatives adds a meaningful touch to this tour.
Is This Tour Worth the Price?
At $53, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the variety of experiences, from the UNESCO site to the scenic drive, and the authentic local lunch. The inclusion of boat transfers, guides, and some activities makes it a hassle-free option for travelers who want an all-in-one day trip.
Reviewers repeatedly highlight the professionalism of the organization, the quality of the guides, and the memorable sights. If you’re looking for a well-organized, diverse, and authentic experience that showcases the natural beauty of Palawan, this tour hits the mark.
Who Should Book This Tour?
This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy nature, wildlife, and adventure without the hassle of planning every detail. It suits those who prefer small-group settings where guides can offer personalized insights. If you’re interested in supporting local communities through activities like ziplining and paddle boating, you’ll love the added impact.
However, it may not be ideal for visitors with mobility issues or those prone to motion sickness, given the winding roads. Also, if you’re after a relaxing, luxury experience, this tour’s busy schedule and active elements might be a bit too energetic.
FAQs
Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transfers are included from hotels within 10 miles (15 km) of Puerto Princesa airport, in an air-conditioned vehicle.
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 9 hours, depending on group size, activity participation, and traffic conditions.
What is the cost?
The tour is $53 per person, with the main additional expense being a small environmental fee of about USD 3.
Are side activities like ziplining optional?
Yes, ziplining and paddle boat rides are optional. You can choose to participate or simply relax at the beach.
What should I bring?
Comfortable water shoes or flip-flops (feet will get wet), sun protection, personal water, and any motion sickness medication if needed.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the walking involved and the winding roads. It’s best suited for families with older children or teenagers.
What about food?
A buffet lunch at a local restaurant is included, offering a chance to try authentic Filipino cuisine. Reviewers found it satisfying and fitting for the day’s adventure.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours prior are non-refundable.
Final Thoughts
This tour offers a fantastic combination of natural wonders, local community support, and adventure. The carefully curated itinerary ensures travelers see the best of Palawan’s underground marvels while enjoying scenic stops and optional thrills. The guides’ friendliness and expertise, coupled with the good value for money, make this experience a standout for anyone eager to explore Puerto Princesa’s highlights.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, this day trip balances education, excitement, and culture. It’s a smart choice for those who want a hassle-free, authentic adventure with plenty of photo-worthy moments and stories to tell long after the day ends.
Remember: Pack water shoes, bring a sense of adventure, and be ready for an unforgettable day beneath and above the earth’s surface. This tour isn’t just about seeing a UNESCO site—it’s about experiencing the magic that makes Palawan truly special.
