Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring an 8.2-kilometer navigable underground river through a limestone cave, home to unique ecosystems and geological formations. This is one of the Philippines' most iconic natural wonders and consistently ranks among the New7Wonders of Nature.

Things to do

• Underground River Boat Tour — Navigate the 8.2-kilometer navigable limestone cave river by electric boat, observing stalactites, stalagmites, and unique cave formations while spotting blind fish and other cave-adapted wildlife.
• Sabang Beach Walk — Stroll along the pristine white-sand beach at Sabang, the gateway to the subterranean river, offering sea views and access to local watersports.
• Jungle Trek to Cave Entrance — Hike through native limestone forest vegetation on the trail leading to the cave mouth, observing tropical flora and local bird species endemic to Palawan.
• Spelunking & Caving — Explore deeper cave chambers beyond the main river passage with licensed guides, discovering pristine rock formations and learning about cave geology and ecology.
• Bird Watching at Sunrise — Visit early morning to observe endemic Palawan bird species such as the Philippine eagle and Palawan wrenthrush in their natural habitat near the park entrance.
• Snorkeling at Sabang — Swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters off Sabang Beach to view tropical fish and coral formations in the South China Sea.

Food to try

• Kinilaw na Isda — Fresh raw fish cured in vinegar and citrus juice, a traditional Palawaño dish that showcases the catch from local waters near Puerto Princesa.
• Tamilok (Woodworm) — A unique local delicacy of shipworm larvae served raw or cooked, considered a specialty protein of Palawan and often eaten with vinegar and salt.
• Bulalo — A hearty beef marrow soup with root vegetables, commonly served in local restaurants around Puerto Princesa as a warming dish.
• Grilled Pusit (Squid) — Freshly caught squid grilled over charcoal and served with local condiments, available at beachside warungs near Sabang.
• Palawan Fruit Shakes — Refreshing drinks made with locally grown tropical fruits like mango, calamansi, and passion fruit, perfect for rehydration after cave tours.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Cave Ecosystems — Follow strict no-touching policies for cave formations and minimize noise to protect the delicate blind fish population and microbial communities living in this UNESCO-protected environment.
• Book Tours in Advance — Daily visitor numbers to the subterranean river are limited by permit, so arrange your tour through official concessionaires or park offices before arriving to ensure entry.
• Dress Appropriately for Cave Tours — Wear lightweight, quick-dry clothing and water shoes for boat tours, as the cave interior remains cool and damp year-round, and bring a light jacket for temperature changes.
• Learn About Indigenous Palawaño Heritage — Engage with local Palawaño guides and communities who have inhabited this region for centuries; their knowledge enriches understanding of the cave's cultural and spiritual significance.

Nearby

• Taytay — 27 km
• Puerto Princesa City — 27 km
• Palawan (MIMAROPA) — 54 km
• El Nido — 65 km