Puerto Princesa Underground River
About Puerto Princesa Underground River
The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. It features a spectacular limestone karst landscape with an underground river.
The river emerges directly into the sea, and its lower portion is subject to tidal influences. The area also represents a significant habitat for biodiversity conservation. The site contains a full mountain-to-sea ecosystem and has some of the most important forests in Asia.
Visitors take a paddle boat deep into the cave system to marvel at massive stalactites, stalagmites, and vast chambers.
Highlights
- ✓ Underground River Tour
- ✓ Sabang Beach
- ✓ Ugong Rock Adventures
- ✓ Honda Bay Island Hopping
Trip Essentials
Photo Gallery
Puerto Princesa Underground River photography - Shot 1
Puerto Princesa Underground River photography - Shot 2
Puerto Princesa Underground River photography - Shot 3
Puerto Princesa Underground River photography - Shot 4
Puerto Princesa Underground River Itinerary
Suggested Travel Plan
Suggested Itinerary
Van Transfer to Sabang
Early morning pick-up for the 1.5-2 hour drive to Sabang Wharf.
Boat to Cave Entrance
Take a motorized banca to the park entrance/beach.
Cave Tour
Paddle boat tour inside the underground river with audio guide.
Lunch Buffet
Enjoy a buffet lunch at Sabang Beach.
Starfish Island
Snorkel and see abundant starfish in clear shallow waters.
Luli Island
Visit the sinking island that appears and disappears with the tide.
Cowrie Island
Relax, swim, and enjoy water sports activities.
Location
Practical Information
✈️ Getting There
Fly to Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS) from Manila, Cebu, or Clark. The Underground River is accessible via van or bus from the city proper.
🏨 Where to Stay
Most visitors stay in Puerto Princesa City which has hotels for all budgets. Sabang also offers beachfront resorts for those wanting to stay near the park.
💡 Travel Tips
Permits are required for the Underground River and are usually included in tour packages. Book in advance.
Fly to Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS) from Manila, Cebu, or Clark. The Underground River is accessible via van or bus from the city proper.
Most visitors stay in Puerto Princesa City which has hotels for all budgets. Sabang also offers beachfront resorts for those wanting to stay near the park.
Permits are required for the Underground River and are usually included in tour packages. Book in advance.
Travel Tips
Monkeys and Monitor Lizards
You will likely see monkeys and large monitor lizards near the park entrance. Do not feed them and keep a safe distance.
Audio Guides
The tour includes an audio guide device. Make sure to listen carefully as boatmen minimize talking to preserve the cave ecosystem.
Pack for Tropical Weather
Lightweight, breathable clothing is essential. Don't forget swimwear, a quick-dry towel, and a light rain jacket for sudden showers.
Using Tricycles
Tricycles are the most common local transport. Negotiate the fare before getting in, or ask a local for the standard rate to your destination.
Cash is King
While major cities accept cards, many islands and rural areas rely on cash. Always carry small bills (20s, 50s, 100s) for small purchases.
Hydration Safety
Stick to bottled or purified water. Avoid tap water and ice cubes in street stalls unless you are sure they are made from purified water.
Monkeys and Monitor Lizards
You will likely see monkeys and large monitor lizards near the park entrance. Do not feed them and keep a safe distance.
Audio Guides
The tour includes an audio guide device. Make sure to listen carefully as boatmen minimize talking to preserve the cave ecosystem.
Pack for Tropical Weather
Lightweight, breathable clothing is essential. Don't forget swimwear, a quick-dry towel, and a light rain jacket for sudden showers.
Using Tricycles
Tricycles are the most common local transport. Negotiate the fare before getting in, or ask a local for the standard rate to your destination.
Cash is King
While major cities accept cards, many islands and rural areas rely on cash. Always carry small bills (20s, 50s, 100s) for small purchases.
Hydration Safety
Stick to bottled or purified water. Avoid tap water and ice cubes in street stalls unless you are sure they are made from purified water.