If you’re eyeing a trip to the Philippines and want a taste of nature’s marvels, the Underground River with Lunch tour promises a memorable day. It’s a package often recommended for those eager to see one of the world’s most impressive natural formations, combined with some adventure sidetrips. While it’s not a perfect fit for everyone, especially if you’re after a more secluded or less commercial experience, it offers a solid introduction to Palawan’s incredible landscapes.
What really stands out about this tour are the stunning views inside the underground river—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and the extra activities like ziplining and mangrove tours that bring variety to the day. On the flip side, some travelers find the overall timing and group size less than ideal, and the cost can feel a little steep when factoring in extra activities. Still, for those looking for a well-organized, value-oriented trip with authentic sights, this tour can be a worthwhile choice.
This experience suits travelers who enjoy a mix of natural beauty and light adventure, especially if they’re comfortable with a group setting and don’t mind paying a little extra for optional add-ons. It’s ideal for first-timers wanting a comprehensive day trip, but those seeking quiet, off-the-beaten-path moments might want to explore other options.
Key Points
- Highlight of the tour is the visit to the UNESCO-listed underground river, with its impressive rock formations and cavernous chambers.
- Additional activities, such as ziplining at Ugong Rock and the Mangrove Tour, offer engaging ways to experience Palawan’s diverse ecosystems.
- The tour is guided in English and offers an audio guide, making it accessible for many travelers.
- The price of $50 per person includes transportation and lunch, but extra activities like ziplining cost additional.
- Not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with visual impairments due to physical activity requirements.
- The tour duration is roughly one day, with flexible starting times depending on availability.
- Reviews suggest that guides are knowledgeable and the views are well worth the trip, though some find the overall experience a bit rushed.
- The cost-benefit balance depends on your interest in the included extra activities and the value you place on seeing the underground river.
Understanding the Experience
The Underground River in Palawan is undeniably a highlight for any nature lover. Its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a New7Wonders of Nature underscores its global significance. The tour begins with a road trip from the seaside village of Sabang, about 80 kilometers north of Puerto Princesa. This drive alone offers scenic views of Palawan’s lush landscape, setting the stage for what’s to come.
Once you arrive at Sabang, the journey continues by boat—a traditional Bangka—which takes you across calm waters to the entrance of the cave system. The main attraction is touring the underground river via small boats, navigating through a labyrinth of impressive rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites. Visitors often comment that the inside of the cave is breathtaking, with some saying, “It is definitely worth seeing the rock formations of the underground river. It is a very impressive cave!” (Solimar, 5/5).
The tour itself is usually shorter than some might hope, lasting only a little while inside the cave—an aspect noted in reviews, which describe the experience as “amazing inside,” but also as somewhat rushed. This is where the sidetrips come in. Ugong Rock Zipline and Sabang Zipline are additional activities included as optional add-ons, offering an adrenaline rush with panoramic views of Palawan’s lush canopy and coastal scenery.
The Mangrove Tour provides a more tranquil, environmentally focused experience. You’ll paddle through narrow waterways surrounded by mangroves, gaining insight into the vital ecosystems that protect the shoreline and support local wildlife. These sidetrips are not included in the base price but are highly recommended if you’re eager for variety.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cavite.
The Practical Details: What You Need to Know
Pricing at $50 per person covers transportation, lunch, and the main underground river visit. It’s a reasonable price considering the location and the inclusion of meals, which are typically simple but adequate. The extra activities like ziplining aren’t included, so if you’re keen on those, be prepared for additional costs.
Timing varies depending on the day, so checking availability ahead of time is wise. The tour is designed to fit into roughly a one-day window, making it manageable for most travelers. Starting times can differ, but generally, early morning departures are common to avoid crowds and maximize your day.
Meeting point is straightforward—look for the guide from BIZ IT Travel and Tours, who will coordinate the group. The tour ends back at the starting point, so no need to worry about getting lost.
Accessibility is limited; the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, pregnant women, or those with visual impairments, mainly due to physical activity involved, especially at the zipline and mangrove sections.
What to bring is standard for outdoor trips—passport or ID (a copy suffices), sunscreen, hat, water, and perhaps a rain jacket in case of showers. No alcohol or drugs are permitted during the tour for safety reasons.
The Experience from the Traveler’s Perspective
Reviewers generally find the guides to be knowledgeable and friendly, which enhances the overall experience. As one reviewer pointed out, “This tour was wonderful because we did many more activities than the ones in the program,” highlighting the flexibility and helpfulness of guides in suggesting additional adventures.
The stunning rock formations inside the cave are the highlight for many, with visitors describing the sights as “impressive” and “worth seeing.” Some reviews mention that the inside of the cave is quite beautiful, but the overall tour can feel somewhat brief or rushed, especially if you opt out of the extra activities.
The value for money is subjective—if you take full advantage of the sidetrips and are happy with a guided day that combines adventure and sightseeing, then it’s quite reasonable. However, the additional costs for ziplining should be factored into your overall budget.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is best suited for first-time visitors to Palawan or travelers looking for a comprehensive day trip. It’s perfect if you enjoy light adventure and are keen to see the world-famous underground river along with some scenic activities.
Nature lovers will appreciate the combination of cave exploration and mangrove ecosystems, while adventure seekers will enjoy the zipline options. It’s also suitable for those with a flexible schedule, as the tour is designed to fit into a single day and offers the convenience of organized transportation.
However, if you’re seeking a quieter, more secluded experience, or if mobility is an issue, you might want to explore other options. Likewise, if extra activities are not your thing, the base tour still offers a solid experience of Palawan’s natural beauty, though it may feel somewhat rushed compared to longer, more in-depth excursions.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Sum Up
The Underground River with Lunch tour from Palawan offers a convenient, well-organized way to experience one of nature’s most spectacular sights, complemented by optional adventure activities. Its value depends on your interest in adding ziplining and mangrove tours, and whether you’re comfortable with a group setting and a somewhat busy schedule.
Travelers who prioritize seeing a UNESCO World Heritage Site and enjoy a mix of light adventure and scenic views will find this tour satisfying. The guides are praised for their knowledge, and the underground river itself is unforgettable. However, those seeking quiet, in-depth exploration might find the tour a tad rushed or commercialized.
For a balanced, authentic experience that combines natural beauty with fun sidetrips, this tour is a practical choice—especially if you plan ahead and are open to extra costs for added activities.
FAQ
Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible or suitable for those with visual impairments, mainly due to physical activity involved and the nature of the excursions.
What’s included in the $50 price?
The price covers transportation, lunch, and the core underground river visit. Extra activities like ziplining or mangrove tours cost additional.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.
Where do we meet the guide?
You meet just by waiting for the BIZ IT Travel and Tours guide at the designated meeting point, and the tour ends back at the same spot.
What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID (a copy suffices), sunscreen, water, hat, and rain gear if needed. Leave alcohol and drugs at home—they’re not allowed.
How long does the tour last?
The full experience takes roughly one day, with specific start times depending on availability. It includes travel, sightseeing, and optional activities.
Are the guides fluent in English?
Yes, the tour features an English-speaking guide and includes an audio guide for better understanding.
Is it worth doing if I only have a day?
Absolutely. The tour is designed to maximize your time by combining the underground river with additional activities, making it a good value for a single-day adventure.
This thorough review should help you decide whether the Underground River with Lunch tour fits your travel style. It’s a great way to experience one of Palawan’s top natural attractions and enjoy some extra adventure along the way.
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