PUERTO PRINCESA UNDERGROUND RIVER: DIY Journey Information (2026)

Puerto Princesa Underground River, The right way to go to the Puerto Princesa Underground River, Puerto Princesa Underground River itinerary, detailed Puerto Princesa Underground River journey information.

Sabang in Puerto Princesa’s tranquil shores tick all of the containers for a laid-back seashore break. Tan-hungry our bodies come right here for its palm-fringed sands, treks by way of dense forest, paddle by way of mangrove forest, go on clifftop adventures, and zip above a scenic azure sea. However its hottest vacationer spot is Puerto Princesa Underground River – a UNESCO World Heritage Website and a voted as one of many New 7 Wonders of Nature.

Most vacationers going to the Puerto Princesa Underground River be part of group excursions by native journey businesses. The excursions normally prices from ₱2,200 ++ ($38+), which I believe is cheap as a result of in the event you see the calculation beneath of how a lot it’ll value per particular person to do the DIY Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour vs the shared tour bundle, the distinction within the worth just isn’t that a lot. As a result of in the event you do the tour bundle, it already consists of the lunch, tour information, permits, and the switch out of your resort to Sabang Port, the place the boats that’ll take you to the Puerto Princesa Underground River are docked.

However, in the event you actually need to do the DIY Puerto Underground River Tour, I counsel you keep in Sabang so you may also discover the world and expertise the opposite vacationer spots. See extra particulars beneath.

1.PUERTO PRINCESA UNDERGROUND RIVER DIY TRAVEL

 The right way to do the Puerto Princesa Underground River by yourself (DIY journey)? Right here’s an in depth DIY journey information.

 ✅MANILA TO PUERTO PRINCESA FLIGHTS: RESERVE HERE OR CHECK RATES HERE

WHERE TO GET THE PERMIT FOR THE PUERTO PRINCESA UNDERGROUND RIVER?

All visitors visiting the Puerto Princesa Underground River have to get a allow first. Guests are restricted to 900 per day to guard this UNESCO World Heritage Website from overcrowding. A lot of the permits go to the excursions by journey businesses.

There are two areas the place you’ll be able to safe the allow.

1. Puerto Princesa Subterranean River Nationwide Park Important Workplace

If you happen to’re in Puerto Princesa, you may get your allow right here, a minimum of 1-2 days earlier than your meant date of go to. It’s beside Mendoza Park. You need to pay the charges at Sabang Port in your tour date.

• Puerto Princesa Subterrabean River Nationwide Park Important Workplace
• Handle: Mendoza Constructing, New, Nook H. Mendoza St, Puerto Princesa Metropolis, 5300 Palawan
• GPS: 9°44’24.5″N 118°44’15.0″E
• Open Hours: Day by day 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
• The right way to get there: Journey a tricycle. Tricycle fare begins at ₱12 ($0.21) to ₱14 ($0.24) for the 2km, relying on the value of gasoline.

2. Sabang Port/Boat Terminal

If you happen to’re coming from El Nido, as a substitute of going again to Puerto Princesa after which going again to Sabang Port once more for the tour, you may get your allow straight from Sabang Port. Take word although that the majority journey businesses get permits from Sabang Port.

• Puerto Princesa Subterrabean River Nationwide Park Important Workplace
• Handle: Cabayugan, Sabang, Puerto Princesa Metropolis
• GPS: 10°11’50.6″N 118°53’34.6″E
• Open Hours: Day by day 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• The right way to get there: See instructions beneath if coming from Puerto Princesa Metropolis. However in the event you’re coming from El Nido, trip a bus to Puerto Princesa. Get off at Salvacion junction. Then trip a van or jeepney to Sabang.

Essential: Carry a sound ID, required for allow. Arrive early as slots are restricted.

PUERTO PRINCESA UNDERGROUND RIVER PERMIT + FEES

✅PUERTO PRINCESA UNDERGROUND RIVER FEES + PERMIT: Right here’s how a lot it’ll value you to go to the Puerto Princesa River Underground River in the event you do it by yourself (DIY), with out tour bundle, about ₱1,085 ($24.69) per particular person.

Take word that in the event you do a DIY Puerto Princesa Tour, it’s important to organize your personal transportation to Sabang Port, the place the boats that may take you to

HOW TO GET TO PUERTO PRINCESA UNDERGROUND RIVER

Right here’s the best way to get from Puerto Princesa to Puerto Princesa Underground River

1.Make your approach to Irawan Eco-Terminal (Puerto Princesa Land Transportation Terminal).

It’s now the principle hub for all outbound journey, it’s now not San Jose Terminal. It’s situated about 12 km from downtown Puerto Princesa, close to the Crocodile Farm. Journey time is roughly half-hour.

 Right here’s the best way to go to Irawan Eco-Terminal from Puerto Princesa metropolis middle:

 By Multi-cab

 Journey a multi-cab (jeepney-style automobile) with Irawan Terminal signboard and on the facet of the automobile. You could find them alongside Rizal Avenue or the Nationwide Freeway or exterior Puerto Princesa Airport.

If you happen to’re close to Robinson’s Place Palawan, you’ll be able to stroll to the Caltex junction and hail a multi-cab there. Alternatively, you may also flag down an Irawan-bound multi-cab close to SM Metropolis Puerto Princesa junction. Fare is roughly ₱30 ($0.42) and journey time is roughly half-hour.

I’ve tried commuting through multi-cab in Puerto Princesa to get to some vacationer spots in Irawan a few years in the past, and the multi-cab trip was fairly breezy/refreshing, so long as it’s not full. lol

By Tricycle

If you happen to’re in teams, you’ll be able to rent a tricycle from Puerto Princesa Airport or from downtown Puerto Princesa to Irawan Eco-Terminal. Particular journey fare is roughly ₱230 ($4), good for 1-3 particular person. Journey time is roughly half-hour.

By Taxi

 You can even trip a taxi to Irawan Eco-Terminal from Puerto Princesa Airport or downtown Puerto Princesa. Sure, there are taxis in Puerto Princesa, however they’re restricted. There’s no Seize in Puerto Princesa, Palawan.

2. At Irawan Eco-Terminal trip a van to Sabang Port.

You possibly can take a passenger van en path to Sabang Port (Lexus), fare is roughly ₱450 ($8). There’s additionally a Cherry Bus to Sabang Port, however the first journey leaves very early, round 6:30 AM. Journey time is roughly 2-2.5 hours.

Alternatively, if you’re a big group, you’ll be able to simply guide a personal van and share the prices. It’s extra handy and cheaper, as vans can accommodate as much as 10-12 passengers.

✅Puerto Princesa to Sabang Personal Van (good for 10-12 pax): RESERVE HERE OR BOOK HERE

 3. At Sabang Port, present your Puerto Princesa Underground River allow and pay the charges.

Be sure you carry the papers to your allow and costs and pay them at Sabang Boat Terminal. Complete charge is roughly ₱1,085 ($24.69) per particular person.  See the charges posted above. You can be offered a quantity to your boat and you’ll sit on the ready space.

4. Get your laborious hat, life jacket, and audio system.

5. Wait to your quantity to be known as, earlier than boarding your boat.

Ready time might take 2-3 hours relying on the variety of guests. So greatest to be there early to keep away from the group excursions by native tour operators.

6. As soon as your quantity is known as, trip the outrigger boat that may take you throughout the bay to the seashore close to the doorway to Puerto Princesa Underground River.

The view of the limestone hills right here is harking back to El Nido.

7. Alight the outrigger boat and comply with the trail to the Puerto Princesa Underground River Entrance.

You’ll encounter monkeys right here, so maintain your luggage and issues. Keep away from displaying your sun shades, meals, and so forth. Keep away from observing them as they may see it as a problem. In the event that they strategy you, keep calm and don’t seize your belongings or meals aggressively.

There are additionally monitor lizards scattered close to the trail to the doorway of the Puerto Princesa Underground River. The species listed below are normally the Palawan water monitor (Varanus salvator marmoratus), a big subspecies of the Asian water monitor native to Palawan. They’re typically shy, calm and used to vacationers and you’ll observe them from a distance, however nonetheless, they’re wild animals.  Don’t feed them, don’t contact them, preserve a respectful distance and keep away from blocking their path.  Safe meals and plastic luggage as they affiliate luggage with meals.

Essential: Keep away from touching and getting too near the monitor.  They produce delicate venom however aren’t medically vital menace to human, nonetheless, their chunk can damage attributable to robust jaws and micro organism and can trigger bleeding and swelling.

8. On the Puerto Princesa Underground River entrance, it is advisable to trip a paddle boat to take you contained in the Puerto Princesa Underground River.

 Be sure you are carrying your laborious hat, life jacket and audio information. The tour information won’t discuss whereas inside, it’s important to hearken to your audio information. Keep away from speaking and preserve your mouth closed to keep away from bat guanos (droppings). Benefit from the tour that may take about 45 minutes.

Essential: Bat guano can harbor a fungus (Histoplasma capsulatum) that causes Histoplasmosis, a respiratory an infection contracted by inhaling spores from disturbed, dry droppings.

9. After the Puerto Princesa Underground River tour, you’ll be able to discover and photograph op.

However please be thoughtful of the time of different joiners as you can be driving the identical outrigger boat going again to Sabang port. The boatman will await you all earlier than leaving.

10. Go away your laborious hat, life jackets and audio system.

So far as I can bear in mind you’ll be able to take house the ear telephone, however be certain to depart the audio system.

11. Journey the boat going again to Sabang Port.

 You possibly can have your lunch or snacks at Sabang Port. Eating places can be found right here.

12. Journey a van going again to Puerto Princesa or to your subsequent vacation spot, maybe El Nido. Or attempt different actions in Sabang, see particulars beneath.

General, the DIY Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour might take about 2-3 hours, excluding ready time.

2.PUERTO PRINCESA UNDERGROUND RIVER BY TOUR PACKAGE

The Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour Packages are cheap, particularly the shared group excursions. As I discussed above, the tour bundle already consists of permits, entrance charges, boat charges, switch/transportation, tour information, and lunch. Simply be sure you have a replica of your Environmental Payment receipt so you’ll be able to present it at Sabang Port.

You possibly can guide the shared Puerto Princesa Underground River group tour by way of the hyperlinks beneath.

✅ Underground River Tour: BOOK HERE OR RESERVE HERE OR CHECK RATES HERE

OTHER TOURIT SPOTS IN SABANG

 If you happen to’re doing a DIY Tour of Puerto Princesa Underground River, you’ll be able to embrace the next vacationer spots in your itinerary. Alternatively, you may also guide mixed excursions, which incorporates different issues to do in Sabang, just like the Mangrove Paddle Boat Tour, Sabang Zipline or Ugong Rock Formations. Examine the tour charges by way of the hyperlinks beneath.

SABANG MANGROVE PADDLE BOAT TOUR

A coomunity-managed paddle boat expertise by way of the mangrove forest in Sitio Sabang, a part of the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River Nationwide Park space. You’ll sit in a conventional paddle boat with a neighborhood boatman/information serving to steer and float slowly alongside calm waterways fringed by mangroves, recognizing wildlife reminiscent of birds, monkeys, and monitor lizards, whereas studying concerning the ecology of the mangrove forest and conservation efforts. If you happen to’re fortunate, the guides also can discover a tamilok for you. Simply give them tip.

✅ UNDERGROUND RIVER + MANGROVE: RESERVE HERE 

PRICE & BOOKING

Customary Paddle Boat Tour Value: Roughly ₱350 ($6) per particular person.

Reserving: You possibly can guide this tour on website in Sabang  – particularly if you’re already doing the Underground River Tour or organize it by way of tour operators as a part of a bundle with different actions (like zipline, Underground River, & Ugong Rock). Some combo excursions are being supplied by native tour operators, see hyperlink above.

Suggestions Earlier than You Go: This paddle boat tour helps community-based sustainable tourism in Brgy. Cabayugan, so your participation helps locals handle and protect this mangrove space.

SABANG ZIPLINE

Nestled within the coastal village of Sabang in Puerto Princesa, the Sabang X Zipline presents one of the vital exhilarating seaside adventures in Palawan. Well-known for its breath-snatching over-water trip, this zipline stretches roughly 800 meters throughout the lazuline waters of Sabang Bay, giving riders panoramic views of mountains, lush forests, and the glowing West Philippine Sea. Designed with security and accessibility in thoughts, the zipline is appropriate for each adventurer lovers and first-time riders.

✅ Sabang X-Zipline: RESERVE HERE

✅ UNDERGROUND RIVER, ZIPLINE + MANGROVE FOREST: RESERVE HERE OR RESERVE HERE

• Sabang X Zipline
• Handle: Cabayugan, Puerto Princesa
• GPS: 10°11’56.3″N 118°54’29.2″E
• Open Hours: Day by day 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Zipline Charges: ₱550 ($9.48), further ₱200 ($3.45) if Superman place

SABANG BEACH

A scenic tropical seashore on the western coast of Palawan, greatest generally known as the gateway to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River Nationwide Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Website and one of many New 7 Wonders of Nature. It’s a few 75 km (2 hours) drive from central Puerto Princesa alongside paved roads.

Sabang Seaside is an extended stretch of sandy shoreline going through the West Philippine Sea, best for swimming, sunbathing, and seashore walks. The seashore is mostly relaxed and never overcrowded, with eating places, small retailers, therapeutic massage huts, and beachfront lounges.  It has an attractive pure views, framed by palm timber, and mountains, making it a peaceable place to sit back or watch the sundown.

There’s no entrance charge in Sabang Seaside. Finest time to go to is throughout dry season (January to Might). There are eateries, fundamental restrooms, and small comfort shops close to the seashore, ATMs and medical amenities are restricted, so plan forward.

IMPORTANT: Water currents may be robust at occasions, so swimming with warning is suggested.

UGONG ROCK ADVENTURE

Ugong Rock is a 75-foot tall limestone karst formation the place guests can discover caves (spelunking) and luxuriate in zipline rides with views of the encompassing forests, rice fields, and karst mountains. The identify “ugong” comes from the gong-like echoing sounds the rocks make contained in the cave passages. Ugong Rock is a good half-day or add-on exercise when exploring the Underground River or Sabang space. It’s best in the event you get pleasure from journey sports activities, nature and out of doors challenges throughout your go to to Palawan. Finest time to do that is morning, after your Underground River tour so that you’ll have loads of time for caving/climbing + zipline earlier than closing,

Costs are normally paid on website in Philippine Peso (money). Right here’s the usual exercise charges per particular person:

• Caving – ₱200 ($3.45)
• Sitting Zipline – ₱250 ($4.31)
• Superman Zipline ₱350 ($6)
• Caving + Sitting Zipline – ₱450 ($7.75)
• Caving + Superman Zipline – ₱550 ($9.48)

Essential: You typically should do the caving and climbing first, after which zipline down (going again).

✅ UNDERGROUND RIVER + UGONG ROCK: BOOK HERE OR RESERVE HERE

PUERTO PRINCESA UNDERGROUND RIVER TOUR ITINERARY

Planning a DIY journey to the Puerto Princesa Underground River may be very doable and may prevent cash. Right here’s a step-by-step itinerary that will help you manage your journey easily.

Pattern Puerto Princesa Underground River DIY Itinerary. Be sure you safe a allow earlier than your scheduled journey.

WHERE TO STAY IN PUERTO PRINCESA

Right here’s a transparent breakdown of the place to remain in Puerto Princesa, Palawan so you’ll be able to decide the vibe that matches your journey greatest.

1.Metropolis Heart – Finest for first time guests and concrete comfort. Excellent if you would like a full of life space with eating places, retailers, transport choices , yours and nightlife all inside strolling distance or quick tricycle trip, Most metropolis excursions and pickups begin right here too.

2.Sabang (Exterior Metropolis) – Nature and Underground River Entry – In case your high precedence is the Puerto Princesa Underground River, staying in Sabang Village (about 2-2.5 hours from town) locations you close to the seashore and forest trails. This space is extra nature-focused reasonably than metropolis centered. Plus, there are numerous native guesthouses and seashore cottages for less complicated stays.

*Reserving Tip: Don’t be so loyal on 1 reserving website, even when coupons are supplied. I simply discovered that some lesser recognized reserving websites are cheaper even with out promo codes. If you wish to save a couple of dollars, examine the room charges first.  You possibly can verify the charges on every hyperlinks I offered beneath, be certain when evaluating charges, you place the identical dates (room charges additionally rely upon the provision and season). Then, be certain to verify after the taxes are added as a result of some reserving websites cost greater taxes and costs. So, even when their room charges seem like the most affordable, as soon as the tax and costs are added, their whole worth is definitely greater than these with greater room charges however decrease tax & charges.

✅ SOLOAGODA – CLAIM CODE HERE Agoda Low cost Code (as much as 10% off, 5x use)

So, sure, all the time verify how a lot it’ll truly value as soon as the tax and different charges are added.  If you happen to discover this journey information useful, you’ll be able to assist me by reserving by way of the hyperlinks I offered beneath. :).

However after all, in the event you’re already used to reserving in your most well-liked platform, then by all means, use it.  You might have been utilizing that platform due to their after gross sales service.

RESORTS/GUESTHOUSE IN SABANG

If you’d like an excellent Puerto Princesa relaxed vacation, keep close to seashore areas or resorts with ocean views or forest views.

Finest for: Nature lovers, {couples}, lengthy stays, and people who need to discover jungle trails and seashores.

*Stayed at Daluyon Seaside and Mountain Resort throughout my final journey to Puerto Princesa. See photograph above. It was a nice and comfy stick with beach-front entry.  Plus, this resort is an award-winning eco-friendly and DOT-accredited resort.

Journey Tip: If you happen to keep in a single day in Sabang (the village close to the river), many lodging will help you course of the allow domestically, decreasing problem on the day of your tour.

HOTELS IN PUERTO PRINCESA CITY CENTER

TRAVEL TIPS AND REMINDERS

• Safe the Puerto Princesa Underground River allow upfront particularly throughout peak season (April – Might) as slots can promote out rapidly and are restricted day by day.
• Journey businesses and tour packages typically consists of permits, transport, boat charges, entrance charges, lunch, and guides.
• Put on snug garments (mild, breathable garments) as climate is humid and  tropical.  Put on rubber sneakers in the event you’re doing the Ugong Rock which includes climbing.
• Carry waterproof gear and dry luggage for digital devices as splashes might occur on the boat.
• Carry water, sunscreen, and money, some areas have restricted ATMs and sign. Stack up on money as smaller distributors and actions typically don’t settle for playing cards.
• If sea situations are tough, the Puerto Princesa Underground River tour could also be delayed.
• Put on insect repellent for the mangrove/jungle actions.
• Respect quiet and keep away from touching fragile stalactites/stalagmites as oil on our palms can harm formations.
• Flash pictures is usually discouraged contained in the cave to guard wildlife and keep away from disturbing the bats.
• Watch your luggage and meals as monkeys close to Sabang and the Puerto Princesa Underground River are recognized to grab meals and belongings.
• Pack snacks and water to your journey – the journey out and again can take most of your day.

ALSO READ:

PUERTO PRINCESA ITINERARY + EXPENSES  (2026)

DIY SABANG MANGROVE FOREST PADDLE BOAT TOUR (2026)