Honda Bay
Explore Honda Bay in Puerto Princesa with our travel guide. Discover stunning islands, white-sand beaches, and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and island hopping.
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Discover Underground River
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.
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TRANSPORT & MOBILITY
How to Get There
Nearest airport
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.
Entering the Cave
Inside the Underground River, visitors travel by small paddle boat through the spectacular cave system, passing towering limestone formations, stalactites and stalagmites. A permit is required, so booking a complete tour package is the most convenient option, as permits, boat arrangements and entrance fees are usually handled in advance.
Getting to Sabang
The best way to reach Sabang is by private van — about 2 hours from Puerto Princesa, 5 hours from El Nido, or 3.5 hours from Port Barton.
Other Attractions in Sabang
Mangrove Forest
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.
Ugong Rock
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.
Sabang Beach
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.
Best Time to Visit Underground River
The Underground River is open year-round, offering a memorable experience whenever you visit, though conditions and crowds vary depending on the season.
Dry Season (Dec - May)
November to early June brings generally good weather, though rough seas and occasional rain are still possible until early February. March and April tend to be the calmest and driest months.
Wet Season (June - Nov)
June to September is quieter but rainier. Typhoons rarely hit directly, but strong winds, heavy rain, or rough seas can trigger temporary closures.
Peak Seasons
On days when large cruise ships dock in Puerto Princesa, the river can get especially crowded . This is even more pronounced around Christmas, New Year, and Easter, and since the Underground River has limited daily visitor slots, book early to secure your spot.
Top Activities
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.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Puerto Princesa – Explore the City
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.
Day 2: Discover the Underground River
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.
Day 3: Island Hopping at Honda Bay
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.
Day 4: Departure from Puerto Princesa
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.
PUERTO PRINCESA Tour Packages
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Puerto Princesa Day Trips
Underground River Private Day Trip
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Puerto Princesa Day Trips
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Puerto Princesa Transfers
Private transfers with experienced local drivers.
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Puerto Princesa Tours
Shared or private tours to the Underground River, Honda Bay and beyond.
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Puerto Princesa Hotels
Hotels and resorts handpicked by our team, from comfortable stays to luxury retreats.
Browse HotelsWhat to Bring Along
Are you planning a trip to Underground River? Don’t forget to pack these beach essentials to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable vacation.
- A valid ID or passport copy – required at the check-in counter before the tour
- Wear light, quick-dry clothes as you might get wet. The boat lands on the beach, so expect to step in water. Flip-flops or waterproof sandals are best.
- A small waterproof bag or dry bag – to keep your phone and valuables safe during boat rides
- Towel and extra clothes – in case you get wet during the tour
- A hat or cap and sunglasses – to protect from the sun
- Sunhat and Sunglasses: Stay protected from the sun's harmful rays with a sunhat and sunglasses.
- Refillable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the day with a refillable water bottle.
- Cash – there are limited ATMs in Sabang, and some local stores only accept cash
- Insect repellent – useful if you’re doing the Mangrove Forest tour
- Raincoat: Pack a lightweight raincoat just in case of an unexpected rain shower during your trip.
Where to Stay
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.
Underground River Useful Information
Group vs Private Tours:
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.
Long Queues at the Underground River:
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.
Entry Permit:
To protect the Underground River, a strict “No Permit, No Entry” policy is enforced, with a limited number of visitor slots available each day. 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.
Booking a complete tour package in advance is more convenient, as permits and boat arrangements are usually handled for you. This system helps control visitor numbers and preserve the site’s natural beauty.
Standard Itinerary:
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 lunch, you can either continue to El Nido, stay overnight in the Sabang area, or return to Puerto Princesa City.
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El Nido
El Nido (5-6 hours): Palawan's most famous destination, with lagoons, limestone cliffs and island hopping. Read our El Nido travel guide or book a shared or private transfer.
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