travel guide puerto princesa

Sabang's Top Attractions


Sabang is a laid-back coastal village on Palawan's northwestern coast, best known as the gateway to the world-famous Underground River — a UNESCO World Heritage Site and New Seven Wonders finalist, just a short boat ride away and home to striking rock formations and unique wildlife. Surrounded by lush forests and the clear waters of the South China Sea, this small but welcoming village offers hotels, resorts, restaurants, and shops, making it an easy, relaxing stop for exploring Palawan's natural beauty.

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Cruise inside the Cave, Underground river, Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines

Must-see

Entrance to Puerto Princesa's Underground River, Palawan
Underground River Cruise, Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines

The Puerto Princesa Underground River, officially known as the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, has become one of the top tourist attractions in the Philippines since being named one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature in November 2011. Located in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, this natural wonder draws thousands of travelers every year.

In 2010, a group of geologists and environmentalists made an exciting discovery—a “second floor” inside the cave. This hidden area features small waterfalls, a massive 300-meter (980 feet) cave dome, deep water holes, more underground river channels, and sightings of marine creatures and large bats. The underground river stretches 24 kilometers (15 miles), with 8.2 kilometers (5.1 miles) of it flowing directly through the cave into the Western Philippine Sea. Tourists can explore up to 4.3 kilometers (2.7 miles) by boat, passing through dramatic stalactite and stalagmite formations.

Surrounding the cave is a breathtaking karst limestone landscape, as well as a rich “mountain-to-sea” ecosystem. The area is also home to some of the most important forests in Asia, making it a paradise for nature lovers, eco-tourists, and adventure seekers.

Whether you’re into nature, wildlife, or simply want to experience one of the most unique cave systems in the world, the Puerto Princesa Underground River tour is a must-do during your visit to Palawan.

Nature & Wildlife

Endangered hornbill in Palawan
A mangrove forest in Sabang, Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines

The Puerto Princesa Subterranean National Park is not only rich in flora but also in fauna, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. The park showcases a range of forest formations representing eight of the thirteen forest types found in tropical Asia, with at least 800 plant species from 300 genera and 100 families, including 295 dipterocarp trees.

The park boasts an impressive collection of 165 bird species out of the 252 species found in Palawan, such as the Blue-naped parrot, Tabon scrub fowl, hill myna, Palawan hornbill, and the white-breasted sea eagle. It is a perfect destination for bird watchers looking for a unique and diverse experience.

The park is also home to 30 mammal species, including long-tailed macaques, bearded pigs, Bearcats, Palawan stink badgers, and Palawan porcupines, which are often observed in forest canopies and along the shoreline during low tide. The park has 19 identified reptile species, eight of which are endemic, with monitor lizards, common reticulated pythons, and green crested lizards as some of its most notable reptiles.

The Underground River boasts nine species of bats, two species of swiftlets, and whip spiders. The coastal areas of the park are also home to sea cows and hawksbill sea turtles, which add to the diversity of the park’s fauna.

Overall, the Puerto Princesa Subterranean National Park is a treasure trove of flora and fauna that offers a unique and unparalleled experience for nature lovers. 

Adventure

Hundred Caves, Sabang, Palawan Saint Paul Mountain Range Sabang Puerto Princesa

Ugong Rock is a limestone karst formation located in Saban, near the Underground River. It is a popular destination for adventure-seekers and nature lovers who are looking for an adrenaline-pumping experience while enjoying the stunning natural beauty of Palawan.

Visitors to Ugong Rock can climb up to the summit of the rock formation through a series of narrow passages, steep stairs, and ladders. Along the way, they will pass through cave-like chambers and marvel at the rock’s intricate formations and stunning stalactites and stalagmites.

Once at the summit, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding karst landscape and the nearby paddy fields. They can also take the thrilling route back down by sliding through a zipline that runs from the top of the rock down to the base.

Aside from the adventure activities, Ugong Rock also offers visitors a glimpse into the local way of life in the nearby villages. Visitors can interact with the locals, learn about their traditional customs and practices, and even participate in farming activities in the nearby rice fields.

Relax and Leisure

Relax at Sabang beach, Daluyon Beach and Mountain Resort, Puerto Princesa, Philippines

Sabang Beach is located on the western coast of Palawan Island in the Philippines. It is a beautiful and secluded beach known for its pristine golden sand and crystal-clear waters. The beach is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and towering limestone cliffs, which create a stunning backdrop for visitors.

In addition to its natural beauty and outdoor activities, Sabang Beach also offers a variety of amenities for visitors, including restaurants, bars, and beachfront accommodations. It is a peaceful and relaxing destination that is ideal for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Palawan.

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Puerto Princesa Day Trips

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The most popular attraction in Puerto Princesa, the Underground River is a must-visit destination when exploring Palawan. The...

Underground River Shared Day Tour
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Underground River Shared Day Tour

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Underground River & Sabang Beach | 4 Days
Private Tours in the Philippines

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Experience the breathtaking beauty of Puerto Princesa with our 4-day Underground River and Sabang Beach tour package. This...