Puerto Princesa Underground River
Puerto Princesa Underground River
Puerto Princesa Underground River
4.5
Bodies of Water • National Parks • Caverns & Caves
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8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
5,747 reviews
Excellent
3,216
Very good
1,659
Average
654
Poor
153
Terrible
65
pestman
New Jersey375 contributions
May 2022
This National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the new natural wonders of the world.
Getting there requires a 1.5 hour van ride from Puerto Princesa then a 20 minute boat ride to get to the cove where the cave is located then an outrigger ride for 30-45 minutes to navigate the underground river. Each outrigger can carry 8-9 passengers.
The boatmen are very knowledgeable about the cave and knows their way around it even in complete darkness. We felt totatlly safe with our boatman and had a great time learning from everything he was telling us.
Word of warning to travellers who are very sensitive to smells. The cave smells of bat guano and pee. It isn't too overpowering but it definitely permeates the cave so be aware of that. Also, if you are afraid of the dark or riding on small boats/outriggers, this is not the tour for you. There is no getting out/off the outrigger for the entire 30-45 minutes that you are inside the cave.
The other drawback is the long ride from Puerto Princesa and there's also not a lot of shade while you wait for the boat ride to the cove where the cave is.
Wear flip flops or sandals as you'll get your feet wet getting off and on the banca (boat).
Getting there requires a 1.5 hour van ride from Puerto Princesa then a 20 minute boat ride to get to the cove where the cave is located then an outrigger ride for 30-45 minutes to navigate the underground river. Each outrigger can carry 8-9 passengers.
The boatmen are very knowledgeable about the cave and knows their way around it even in complete darkness. We felt totatlly safe with our boatman and had a great time learning from everything he was telling us.
Word of warning to travellers who are very sensitive to smells. The cave smells of bat guano and pee. It isn't too overpowering but it definitely permeates the cave so be aware of that. Also, if you are afraid of the dark or riding on small boats/outriggers, this is not the tour for you. There is no getting out/off the outrigger for the entire 30-45 minutes that you are inside the cave.
The other drawback is the long ride from Puerto Princesa and there's also not a lot of shade while you wait for the boat ride to the cove where the cave is.
Wear flip flops or sandals as you'll get your feet wet getting off and on the banca (boat).
Written June 1, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Cassie T
Melbourne, Australia233 contributions
Dec 2022
Definitely on the to do list if you are a nature lover. 1.5 km into the underground cave and then back again. Went with an organised tour but you can also catch a boat from the local town (Sabang) which takes you to the National Park with entry fee on top. Do expect to get wet when you get off the boat onto the National park (or in our case, when we got back on to the boat afterwards). Bring a waterproof bag!!
The Underground River boat tour is gentle and peaceful with audio commentary. I was told there is a way to trek into this area but I would still recommend to come by boat via sea
The Underground River boat tour is gentle and peaceful with audio commentary. I was told there is a way to trek into this area but I would still recommend to come by boat via sea
Written December 26, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Christina H
Pasig, Philippines71 contributions
May 2022
Don’t leave Puerto Princesa without experiencing the Underground River Tour. There are no words to describe the awesome experience, truly a wonder of nature. You will be provided with an audio guide as noise is prohibited inside the cave. Boat ride takes about 40 minutes. Hard hat will be provided as protection for possible bat poops & drops of water from the ceiling. Keep your belongings close to your body during the tour & even on the way to the cave as there are monkeys all around.
Written May 19, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Viki P
Bratislava, Slovakia42 contributions
Feb 2020
We were not sure if we want to go there as we thought it is little bit expensive for what you get. We also heard that it is crowded and you cannot enjoy the place. Do not believe those things! :D
It was absolutely amazing. We paid 1700pesos with transfer from Puerto Princesa, the guide in the car was amazing and she was talking a lot during the ride, it was not just a regular transfer, it was really educational ride. We were told we have to wait 30 minutes and we could decide if we want to go to zipline or boat through mangrove forest (additional money however, mangrove was 350p, nice choice). Now at the place after those activities you are first going with boat on the sea to the place where is the entrance to PP UR, that is one crazy ride which we enjoyed so much. It was not crowded at all. We never waited longer that 10 minutes, it was super quick. The ride through the cave was sooooo nice. You have earphones and the only light inside of the cave is the light which is held by boat guide, so the natural habitat of the cave is not disturbed. There is strictly silence in the cave so you hear in one ear nice sound of recorded guide and the other ear can focus on the sounds of water and cave animals. There is huge amount of bats, wow. We didn't receive any kind of "holy bat water drops", but you are warned to keep your mouth closed (and wear clothes you don't like). :D They will take you something more than 1km inside, but I think it is enough. And the lunch after the ride was one of the best buffets I have ever had :D but this depend on the company you book with and I do not remember which was ours, sorry.
Go and enjoy!
It was absolutely amazing. We paid 1700pesos with transfer from Puerto Princesa, the guide in the car was amazing and she was talking a lot during the ride, it was not just a regular transfer, it was really educational ride. We were told we have to wait 30 minutes and we could decide if we want to go to zipline or boat through mangrove forest (additional money however, mangrove was 350p, nice choice). Now at the place after those activities you are first going with boat on the sea to the place where is the entrance to PP UR, that is one crazy ride which we enjoyed so much. It was not crowded at all. We never waited longer that 10 minutes, it was super quick. The ride through the cave was sooooo nice. You have earphones and the only light inside of the cave is the light which is held by boat guide, so the natural habitat of the cave is not disturbed. There is strictly silence in the cave so you hear in one ear nice sound of recorded guide and the other ear can focus on the sounds of water and cave animals. There is huge amount of bats, wow. We didn't receive any kind of "holy bat water drops", but you are warned to keep your mouth closed (and wear clothes you don't like). :D They will take you something more than 1km inside, but I think it is enough. And the lunch after the ride was one of the best buffets I have ever had :D but this depend on the company you book with and I do not remember which was ours, sorry.
Go and enjoy!
Written February 19, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Maree R
Christchurch, New Zealand1,091 contributions
May 2023 • Couples
It is a long day, van ride for 1 hour 20 and then 2 boats with plenty of waiting, and lunch provided at a buffet with many other groups. Our guide was keen for us to take the extra zipline and or mangrove boat tour as we were there a little late and the queues were long for the boats. Maybe all guides do this anyway, it passed some time. The underground river, once there, was fascinating and so worth the effort so it really is a must do when in Peurto Princesa.
Written May 9, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gilles L
Ottawa21 contributions
Feb 2020
We had hoped to make a dyi day trip from Puerto Princessa to the Underground River but we abandoned the idea based on the following info.
1) The Subterranean River National Park office moved into a brand new modern building in Mendoza Park (Rizal Av.) in Aug. 2019 (i.e. no longer at the City Coliseum building as stated in Lonely Planet).
2) We learned that cost for this diy visit would not be any cheaper than a package trip. entrance fee (500php), audio device(85php), environmental fee(150php) and boat 6pax (189php) [Total: 924php per person] + return van transportation (~1600php).
3) Given the Underground River experience last between 30 - 45 mins. it is really hard to justify such an expense of money and time (~5 hours by van).
4) Clearly, the Subterranean River National Park office managed to build their spiffy new building with tourist money but we did not want to further contribute to their office/building expansion.
5) Really consider skipping this attraction as it represents, in our opinion, very poor value. There must be some YouTube videos out there you can watch to catch the Underground River views.
1) The Subterranean River National Park office moved into a brand new modern building in Mendoza Park (Rizal Av.) in Aug. 2019 (i.e. no longer at the City Coliseum building as stated in Lonely Planet).
2) We learned that cost for this diy visit would not be any cheaper than a package trip. entrance fee (500php), audio device(85php), environmental fee(150php) and boat 6pax (189php) [Total: 924php per person] + return van transportation (~1600php).
3) Given the Underground River experience last between 30 - 45 mins. it is really hard to justify such an expense of money and time (~5 hours by van).
4) Clearly, the Subterranean River National Park office managed to build their spiffy new building with tourist money but we did not want to further contribute to their office/building expansion.
5) Really consider skipping this attraction as it represents, in our opinion, very poor value. There must be some YouTube videos out there you can watch to catch the Underground River views.
Written February 8, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ColeMK
Antipolo City, Philippines10 contributions
May 2022
Fun! There's also a scientific explanation about the cave. I'm also very impressed that the boat paddler is very precise in paddling and that they can avoid crashing on narrow passages. I highly recommend everyone that plans to go to Palawan to visit the Underground River.
Written June 17, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
G2Kpauly
Melbourne, Australia1,836 contributions
Aug 2022 • Friends
I really enjoyed this underwater river cave tour. The boat paddler was good and showed us all the good sights as the recording was telling us about all the interesting things to look at. The audio guide was enjoyable and informative. This cafe is pretty cool and a must see in Palawan!
Written August 15, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Annaepoc
Riyadh7 contributions
Feb 2020
We give this top rating as it’s only downside was the travel to and from. If you are in Puerto Princesa, be prepared for up to a four hour journey each way. On arrival there will be a 90 minute wait while permits are issued and we recommend you use this time to do the Mangrove Boat tour that will be suggested to you by your guide. We were fortunate enough to get a boat on our own with a fabulous boatman/guide named Romeo. After this and some lunch you will board one of the local outrigger boats as a group and will head towards the site for the underground cave. This trip and the return after seeing the cave is an experience in itself as the waters can be choppy and make this a little adventure but at no time unsafe. On reaching the site you will again board a small paddle boat to enter the cave and see the wonders therein. Having been supplied with an audio device in your language, the boatman guide will synchronise the whole tour with the audio making it truly worthwhile. This 45 minute boat ride is what the whole day has been about and is a wonderful experience. The cave lives up to its UNESCO billing.
Written February 17, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Diana
Taguig City, Philippines24 contributions
Jan 2020 • Family
I highly suggest that you bring a face mask. And yes, there are bats inside the cave. We booked a 3-in-1 tour (underground river, zipline, mangrove tour and lunch at Sheridan Beach Resot) but if you plan on going there just to see the underground river then I don’t think it’s worth it.
Written February 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tia
Indonesia2 contributions
how and where can I purchase a permit in Sabang?
i don't visit Puerto Princesa City.
can I purchase a permit in Sabang?
and can I make a reservation with a travel agency in Sabang?
My friend and I would love to take the Puerto Princesa underground river tour but we dont want to be on a boat with 5+people on it. Are there any 1-2 person kayak tours or something similar available?
Timetravelbug
Dapto, Australia317 contributions
I don’t think this is a possible. Tours that didn’t have enough people were coupled with other tours that have less people.
how much is the current UR tour for locals?
Maria
7 contributions
The rate that I have is for 2018. If there are any increase, I guess that will be at least 10-20%. If you are going to do-it-your own tour. local and international have the same rate: Php 735 which includes the entrances, envi. fees, and audio device. additional rate will be the boat ride 2 way: Php 180+. Hope that it'll help you.
RoxaneB1975
Beaconsfield, Canada21 contributions
Hello, do visitors have to sign up to a tour to visit the river or can visitors simply go solo? Also, is there a visitors' center on site for information and tour operators. Thank you
Dear all,
We wanted the best experience for the Underground river tour and simply don't want a rush itinerary - focusing more on quality instead of price (we don't need the cheapest, just not awfully overpriced). I've read a few reviews and aware of some mentioning - a lot of waiting around, any chance to avoid too much waiting? Also I saw many different packages, some with Ugong Rock Adventure (Zip-lining), some mentioned Sabang beach (Zip-lining), are they the same? If they are not, what's the difference, which one is safer/better view?
We are happy to spend more than a day to get a good experience with the underground river, watch the cave and lizard (if not dangerous), and do the zip-lining (we are keen on the zip-lining).
Would appreciate any of you to share/answer my questions. Thank you so much!
fortalejo n
20 contributions
Just to add, if you are doing the Honda bay tour after the Underground River tour or vice versa, you can use the same Environmental fee as long as it's within 10 days. So, ASK and KEEP the Environmental fee receipt.
Athikumanan
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia19 contributions
Do we need to walk or use physical energy for this tour? Also with a 2 year old?
Reeese M
Cebu City, Philippines2 contributions
You will not be exhausted because you will definitely enjoy the scenery and it does not require physical energy. Personally, I would not recommend you to bring your baby for safety reasons.
Rate for underground river tour
Edwin Tee
Quezon City, Philippines114 contributions
The Klook price is at 1570 per person.
Hello! We are visiting PP from 19th-22nd April and looking forward to Underground River and Honda Bay.
We are a group of 16 heads including 3 children and an infant. Pls. suggest any tour package of Underground river n Honda Bay/a trustworthy tour company who can plan for us with reasonable cost.
Most importantly, does not cheat.
Also, we are looking for a bit of flexible pick up time instead of 7:00am.
Thank you!
Mae
31 contributions
We used Gullivers 24/7 travels and tours Palawan.tourist guide are nice.they give me discounts.maybe you can get discounts.i will ask there email address.i will send to you.they have Facebook you can contact them Glenda Mosquera.
Puerto Princesa Underground River - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Puerto Princesa Underground River
- Puerto Princesa Underground River is open:
- Sun - Sat 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- We recommend booking Puerto Princesa Underground River tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 49 Puerto Princesa Underground River tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Puerto Princesa Underground River:
- Underground River Day Trip from Puerto Princesa City (From $49.00)
- Puerto Princesa: UNESCO Underground River Day Tour (From $43.00)
- Puerto Princesa to El Nido Private Transfer (From $173.34)
- Private Underground River Tour (From $175.00)
- Puerto Princesa Palawan 4d3n Rm with Tours (From $158.98)
- Hotels near Puerto Princesa Underground River:
- (1.88 mi) Daluyon Beach and Mountain Resort
- (2.14 mi) Sheridan Beach Resort and Spa
- (2.00 mi) Bambua Nature Cottages
- (2.13 mi) Mary's Cottages
- (2.96 mi) Turtlebay Villa near Underground River
- Restaurants near Puerto Princesa Underground River:
- (1.87 mi) Pawikan Restaurant
- (1.99 mi) Asiano Gourmet Cuisine
- (1.96 mi) Seaside Resto Bar
- (2.38 mi) Underground Coffee Shop
- (2.03 mi) Kinabuchs Grill and Bar
- Attractions near Puerto Princesa Underground River:
- (0.94 mi) Sabang X Zipline
- (2.14 mi) Sabang Beach
- (8.83 mi) Ugong Rock
Puerto Princesa Underground River Information
Excellent Reviews | 3,215 |
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Very Good Reviews | 1,658 |
Puerto Princesa Underground River Photos | 5,545 |