Hello everyone!
Hope all are safe and well!
After my unforgettable El Nido island adventure, I headed back to Puerto Princesa City to continue my Palawan vacation. This next chapter of my journey is all about the amazing Underground River adventure! It's a must see destination in the Philippines. ☺️
The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's located in Sabang, Puerto Princesa, Palawan. The river flows directly into the sea and is known for its stunning cave system featuring majestic rock formations. This underground river is one of the longest navigable subterranean rivers in the world and a true natural wonder. ❤️
I traveled back to Puerto Princesa the day after my El Nido tour and arrived late in the evening at the hotel I booked. Since I already had dinner during a stopover on the road, I went straight to rest and sleep to prepare for another exciting day.
The next morning, after breakfast at hotel, I waited for my friend at the hotel lobby.
My friend came with a motorcycle. We started our two hour journey from the city to Sabang. Sabang is a coastal village and the main jump-off point for the Underground River tours. The route to Sabang is scenic, offering views of lush forests and mountains.
When we arrived at Sabang, we went directly to the Underground River booking office to register and pay the necessary fees. As a walk-in solo traveler who didn’t avail of a hotel tour package, I needed to register, comply permit and pay necessary fees like environmental fee, entrance fee, boat transfer fee (to and from the Underground River site), tour guide fee and audio guide device fee.
After payment and registration, the staff gave a quick briefing and reminders about the do’s and don’ts.
Things to Remember:
✓ No feeding or provoking the monkeys.
✓ Keep your belongings secure.
✓ No flash photography inside the cave.
✓ Wear your life vest and hardhat at all times.
✓ Maintain silence during the cave tour for safety and to preserve the environment.
Since I was alone and not part of a package tour, I had to wait to be grouped with other travelers. I waited at the dispatching area, took some photos near the sea where boats were docked, and even enjoyed a cone of dirty ice cream.
Soon enough, I was grouped with a friendly local family tourists. We boarded a boat together and sailed toward the Underground River.
The ride took around 15-20 minutes. The sea was a bit rough and the sky gloomy, but the excitement made the trip enjoyable. We took some photos before departure and while sailing. My friend stayed behind at the waiting area.
Upon arriving at the island, the breathtaking view welcomed us. ☺️❤️
I had my photo taken with the iconic sign Welcome to Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. It that proves I’ve been to the Underground River. ☺️❤️
And with the group I joined. ☺️
Then, our tour guide led us along a short trail where we geared up with life vests and hard hats.
Along the way to underground river, be extra vigilant to the monkey roaming around. 🤭
And you'll notice some details about the underground river.
We were also handed headsets connected to radios that would play pre-recorded narrations during the cave exploration.
The river entrance is serene, with crystal clear waters reflecting the towering limestone cliffs. ❤️
I also had a photo standing confidently in front of the cave entrance, a picture perfect memory of the day. ☺️❤️
And a picture of our group inside the boat ready for the Underground River adventure. All geared up with life vests and hardhats, excited to explore. ☺️❤️
As we entered, it gradually became darker. The smell of bats was noticeable, but but not overwhelming.
Water droplets fell from above, possibly from the cave ceiling, bat guano, or rock formations. You have to make sure to always close your mouth. ☺️
With the help of our headsets, we listened to a soothing background of nature sounds and informative narrations about the river’s history, geology, and ecosystem. Our tour guide steered the paddle boat while occasionally using a flashlight to highlight the unique limestone formations inside.
The rock formations inside are truly magical. We saw formations that looked like vegetables, fruits, a cathedral, the Holy Family, a giant candle, and more. The natural shapes sparked imagination and wonder, making you feel like you’re in a fantasy world. ☺️❤️
When we reached the end of the navigable area, we turned back. It's about 45 minutes boat ride, back and forth.
As we could see a daylight at the cave entrance, it's a symbol that our amazing underground journey was about to end.
Back at the island, I gave a small tip to our boat guide and rejoined the group to return to Sabang. I also bid farewell to the family I joined and thanked them for their company. After that, my friend and I had a satisfying lunch nearby. ☺️
I also met a foreign solo traveler, but sadly I forgot his name. If someone reading this knows him, let him know he's in this blog! 😊
I had another snapshot in Sabang before riding back to Puerto Princesa City.
This trip was more than just sightseeing. It was a journey of discovery, awe, and appreciation for the wonders of nature. Truly, the Underground River deserves its spot as one of the world’s natural wonders.
Until the next adventure!☺️❤️
Have a Blessed Thursday everyone! 😀😀😀💖💖💖
Thank You Lord for the blessings and love!
Be grateful in every little/simple things and you’ll find happiness you ever wanted! 😀😀😀
Everyday is worth to be grateful of!
Praying for the safety and wellness of all.
Heal Our Land Oh God!
Lovelots,
@shikika