The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is a must-visit attraction in Palawan Island.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the “New 7 Wonders of Nature,” it features the world’s longest navigable underground river, stretching over 8.2 kilometers beneath stunning limestone karst mountain formations.
The park is also home to a wide variety of wildlife in its lush tropical forest. Visitors can enjoy a scenic boat ride from Sabang Beach to the river’s entrance. Inside the cave, you’ll discover fascinating stalactites and stalagmites, shaped by nature over thousands of years, offering a glimpse into the park’s incredible geological and natural wonders.
Puerto Princesa Airport (PPS) is the closest airport to the Underground River, located about a 2-hour drive away.
PPS is accessible via direct flights from both Manila and Cebu.
Airlines such as Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and AirAsia offer multiple daily flights.
From El Nido:
Public Transportation: Lexxus offers a daily shuttle van service from Sabang to El Nido, taking approximately 5-6 hours.
Private Transportation: For the fastest and most comfortable ride, book a private van directly to El Nido. Book Now
From Puerto Princesa:
Public Transportation: Lexxus runs a daily shuttle van service between Puerto Princesa and Sabang, with a travel time of about 2 hours.
Private Transportation: For a quicker and more convenient option, book a private van to Sabang. Book Now
From Port Barton:
Private Transportation: The easiest way to reach the Underground River from Port Barton is by booking a private van. Book Now
Take a serene 30-minute boat ride through the coastal mangrove forest, surrounded by lush vegetation. Along the way, you may spot native wildlife such as lizards, snakes, crabs, and monkeys in their natural habitat, making it a memorable encounter with nature.
Climb the iconic Ugong Rock in Sabang and be rewarded with breathtaking views from the summit. Navigate through narrow crevices and rope-assisted paths for a fun and challenging adventure. Then, take the ultimate leap and glide down on the thrilling Sabang Zipline! Soar above lush forests, feel the wind in your face, and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Palawan’s stunning scenery.
Unwind in the peaceful ambiance of Sabang Beach by staying at resorts such as the Four Points by Sheraton Palawan or Daluyon Beach & Mountain Resort. With its backdrop of towering mountains and the pristine waters of the West Philippine Sea, the beach provides an ideal spot to relax and soak in the natural beauty of the area.
Puerto Princesa’s Underground River,, Palawan is a year-round destination, but the ideal time to visit depends on your preferences and travel plans. Here is a guide to help you decide when to visit.
The Underground River is open all year, but the best time to visit is from November to early June. This is the dry season and also the busiest time, especially around Christmas, New Year, and Easter.
Since there are only a few hotels in Sabang, we recommend booking early to secure your spot.
From June to September is the low season, which is also the rainy season. While typhoons rarely affect the Underground River directly, strong winds, heavy rain, or rough seas can lead to temporary closures for safety.
The park may also close during rough sea and extreme weather, such as storms or heavy rainfall. It’s always best to check conditions ahead of your tour.
On days when large cruise ships dock in Puerto Princesa, the Underground River can get crowded. To avoid long lines, we suggest arriving early before the cruise passengers.
This UNESCO World Heritage site and New 7 Wonders of Nature is a must-visit for any traveler. Marvel at the limestone karst formations and crystal-clear waters as you navigate the underground river.
This 4-day adventure offers more than just a tour of the Underground River. You’ll cruise through the peaceful Mangrove Forest, enjoy beach hopping along the beautiful coast of Sabang, and experience a bit of excitement with a visit to Ugong Rock, where you can climb or try the zipline. After a full day of exploring, relax on the stunning Sabang Beach and spend the night at a cozy beachside resort.
Upon arriving in Puerto Princesa, take some time to explore the city and immerse yourself in the local culture. Visit historical landmarks such as the Plaza Cuartel or the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, or stroll around the Puerto Princesa Baywalk to enjoy the scenic view of the sea.
Embark on an exciting adventure to the Puerto Princesa Underground River, one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. Marvel at the stunning limestone formations, and witness the diverse ecosystem that thrives within the cave’s chambers.
Indulge in a fun-filled day of island hopping at Honda Bay, located just a short distance away from the city center. Visit picturesque islands like Starfish Island and Cowrie Island, where you can swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the pristine white sand beaches.
After a memorable stay in Puerto Princesa, it’s time to say goodbye and head back home. Take with you unforgettable memories of the city’s rich history, natural wonders, and warm hospitality.
Are you planning a trip to Underground River? Don’t forget to pack these beach essentials to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable vacation.
When visiting Puerto Princesa, you’ll find a variety of accommodation options to suit your needs. For those seeking convenience and proximity to restaurants, bars, and shopping malls, hotels near Rizal Avenue in the city center are ideal. If you’re planning to visit the Underground River, consider staying at Sabang Beach, known for its unspoiled beauty. The area offers upscale resorts like Daluyon Beach and Mountain Resort and Four Points by Sheraton, as well as budget-friendly guesthouses. For families, Astoria Palawan in San Rafael is a great option, featuring a waterpark to entertain kids.
If you’re looking for a luxurious and peaceful retreat on Sabang Beach, Four Points by Sheraton Palawan Puerto Princesa is a great choice. Situated right on the beachfront, the resort offers spacious and air-conditioned rooms with private balconies overlooking the pool, garden or mountains. The rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV, minibar, personal safe, and en suite bathrooms with either a bathtub or shower. One of the resort’s main attractions is the 340-ft-long signature swimming pool, the largest of its kind in Palawan.
Another great option is the eco-friendly 4-star Daluyon Beach and Mountain Resort, offering luxurious beachfront cabanas. These cabanas feature contemporary native designs and are strategically designed to maximize natural light and airflow. With direct beach access, each cabana has its own private balcony, offering stunning views of Sabang Beach and the crystal-clear waters of the West Philippine Sea.
Astoria Palawan is a great option for visiting the Underground River, despite being about an hour’s drive away. The resort offers a serene and picturesque location surrounded by lush greenery and pristine beaches. The resort features a variety of accommodation options ranging from elegant rooms to spacious suites and villas, all tastefully designed with modern amenities and contemporary furnishings.
Planning a trip to Underground River? Here’s everything you need to know . Make your stay smooth and enjoyable with our quick guide.
Choosing between a private or group tour to the Underground River depends on your preferences and budget.
Group tours are affordable and great for meeting fellow travelers, as you’ll share a van, boat, and canoe.
Private tours offer more flexibility, comfort, and privacy—but at a higher cost. They’re ideal if you arrive early in Puerto Princesa airport and want to go straight to the river.
Note:All visitors share the park-operated canoe inside the Underground River to protect the ecosystem.
The Underground River is one of the top attractions in the Philippines, but it can get crowded—especially during peak season. Wait times at Sabang Wharf can reach up to 4 hours, plus an extra 30 minutes at the cave entrance.
There’s no VIP or skip-the-line option, but booking a private tour and starting early in the morning can help you beat the crowds. This lets you enjoy the Underground River—one of the New7Wonders of Nature—without the long wait.
After your Underground River tour, continue your journey to El Nido. The most convenient option is to hire a private vehicle from Sabang.
For budget travelers, the Lexxus shuttle van offers an affordable alternative, though it takes longer.
To protect the Underground River, a strict “No Permit, No Entry” policy is enforced. All visitors must secure an Entry Permit through a tour operator or the Puerto Princesa booking office. A valid ID and individual registration are required before the tour. This helps control visitor numbers and preserve the site’s natural beauty.
A trip to the Underground River is a full-day adventure, starting with a scenic 2-hour drive from Puerto Princesa to Sabang. From Sabang Wharf, you’ll take a short boat ride to the river entrance, followed by a 45-minute paddle boat tour inside the cave.
Each boat is guided by a boatman-tour guide who will explain the unique stalactite and stalagmite formations, including highlights like the towering Cathedral chamber.
After the tour, enjoy lunch at Sabang Beach or visit the nearby Mangrove Forest.
After lunch, you can:
–Travel to El Nido (about 5 hours by private van or shuttle)
-Try the Sabang zipline with views of the mountains and jungle
–Return to Puerto Princesa and explore more attractions or stay overnight
