The Underground River in Palawan, Philippines is a truly remarkable natural wonder. Offering visitors an enchanting journey through a captivating underground landscape, this UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases the stunning beauty of limestone karst formations and diverse ecosystems. Though accessible via guided boat tours, the sheer scale and splendor of this subterranean waterway consistently leaves travelers in awe. With its status as one of the New7Wonders of Nature, the Underground River undoubtedly deserves its reputation as a must-see destination – one that promises to captivate the senses and ignite the imagination.
Key Points
- The Underground River in the Philippines is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New7Wonders of Nature, renowned for being one of the longest navigable underground rivers globally.
- The Underground River is wheelchair-accessible, but the transportation pathways leading to it may pose challenges for some visitors, such as pregnant women or visually impaired individuals.
- The tour package includes a live guide and audio guide in English, lasting a full day, and offers sidetrip options like Ugong Rock Zipline, Mangrove Tour, and Sabang Zipline.
- Tour prices start from €39.43 per person, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.
- Visitor feedback suggests mixed experiences, with positive remarks about the tour guide’s professionalism but concerns about poor planning and organization by the touring company.
Overview of the National Park
The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is located in the Saint Paul Mountain Range, situated approximately 80 kilometers north of Puerto Princesa in Palawan, Philippines.
It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized as one of the New7Wonders of Nature, and a designated Ramsar Wetland Site.
This major tourist destination is accessible via road trips to the Sabang village, where visitors can take bangkas (kayaks) to explore the park.
The national park is renowned for its underground river, which flows directly into the West Philippine Sea and is one of the longest navigable underground rivers in the world.
Accessibility and Suitability
The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park caters to a variety of visitors, though certain groups may face accessibility challenges.
The underground river is wheelchair-accessible, but the transportation and pathways to the park’s entrance can be difficult for those with mobility issues. Plus, the tour may not be suitable for pregnant women or visually impaired individuals.
However, the park offers several sidetrip options, including:
- Ugong Rock Zipline
- Mangrove Tour
- Sabang Zipline
These activities provide alternative experiences for visitors who may not be able to fully participate in the underground river tour.
Booking and Pricing Details
Visitors to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park can book their tours from a range of providers, with prices starting from €39.43 per person.
The tour includes a live guide and audio guide in English, and lasts for a full day. Visitors can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
There’s also an option to reserve now and pay later. The tour covers the main highlights of the underground river, with additional sidetrip options available at an extra cost.
Visitors should bring their passport or ID card and note that certain accessibility restrictions apply.
Transportation and Meeting Point
Conveyance to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park commences from the designated meeting point, where travelers await the arrival of the BIZ IT Travel and Tours tour guide.
The transportation arrangements include:
- Comfortable air-conditioned buses or vans that ferry visitors from the meeting point to the Sabang village pier.
- Bangkas (traditional Philippine outrigger canoes) that transport guests across the water to the park’s entrance.
- Guided walking tours along the underground river’s lush trails.
- Wheelchair-accessible options for visitors with mobility challenges.
- Coordination with tour operators to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Inclusions and Exclusions
Included in the package are a live tour guide and an audio guide in English, providing visitors with a comprehensive and informative experience. However, the environmental fee and personal souvenirs are not included in the package price. Plus, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or visually impaired individuals.
| Included | Not Included |
|---|---|
| Live Tour Guide | Environmental Fee |
| Audio Guide in English | Personal Souvenirs |
| – | Restrictions for Certain Groups |
The tour offers a reserve now & pay later option, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, ensuring flexibility for visitors.
Visitor Experience Highlights
The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park offers visitors several sidetrip options to enhance their experience.
Visitors can embark on an Ugong Rock Zipline adventure, explore the serene Mangrove Tour, or take on the thrilling Sabang Zipline.
The park is also wheelchair accessible, catering to diverse accessibility needs.
Plus, the underground river experience itself is a highlight, with a live tour guide and audio guide in English providing informative and engaging commentary throughout the journey.
- Ugong Rock Zipline
- Mangrove Tour
- Sabang Zipline
- Wheelchair accessibility
- Live tour guide and audio guide
Customer Feedback and Ratings
Visitors have provided a mixed mix of feedback on their experiences at the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park.
The overall rating stands at 3.5 out of 5 based on 2 reviews. Positive comments highlighted the professionalism of the tour guide, Ralph.
However, some customers criticized the poor planning and organization by the touring company. Issues with pickup arrangements and cramped transportation were noted, and experiences were mixed regarding timing and weather conditions affecting the visit.
While the underground river remains a popular tourist destination, the feedback suggests room for improvement in the tour operator’s service quality and logistics.
Additional Sightseeing Opportunities
Alongside the main attraction of the underground river, visitors to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park can enjoy several sidetrip options.
These include:
-
Experiencing the thrill of the Ugong Rock Zipline, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
-
Exploring the Mangrove Tour, where travelers can observe the unique ecosystem and wildlife in the coastal forests.
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Taking on the Sabang Zipline, a high-speed ride that glides above the lush vegetation.
-
Embarking on a kayak tour to discover the hidden wonders of the park’s waterways.
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Visiting the cultural heritage sites in the nearby Sabang Village.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Underground River Safe for Young Children?
The underground river experience may not be suitable for young children, as it involves navigating through a dark and confined space. Parents should carefully consider the child’s age, comfort level, and any potential safety concerns before booking this activity.
Can I Bring My Pet to the Underground River?
No, pets are not allowed at the underground river tour. The tour operators do not permit visitors to bring animals, as they aim to preserve the natural environment and ensure the safety and comfort of all guests.
How Long Does the Boat Ride Through the River Take?
The boat ride through the underground river typically lasts around 1 hour. Visitors will have the chance to observe the river’s unique geological formations and wildlife during the journey through the subterranean waterway.
Are There Any Restrictions on Photography or Videography?
Visitors are generally allowed to take photos and videos during the underground river tour, though the use of flash photography is prohibited to protect the delicate cave ecosystem. Some areas may have restrictions to prevent damage to the environment.
Can I Extend My Stay at the Underground River Site?
Visitors can’t extend their stay at the Underground River site. The tour package has a fixed duration, and no options are available to prolong the visit beyond the scheduled time. Travelers must follow the itinerary provided by the tour operator.
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Recap
The Underground River in Palawan, Philippines, is a truly remarkable natural wonder. Visitors can explore its stunning limestone formations and diverse ecosystems on guided boat tours, learning about its ecological significance. With the site’s UNESCO World Heritage status and recognition as one of the New7Wonders of Nature, it’s no wonder the Underground River continues to captivate and inspire all who experience its breathtaking beauty.