The underground river tour in the Philippines’ Saint Paul Subterranean River National Park offers a captivating adventure for nature enthusiasts. For just $48.04 per person, visitors can glide through one of the world’s longest navigable underground rivers, surrounded by stunning rock formations and diverse wildlife. The tour also includes a delicious buffet lunch featuring local Filipino cuisine, ensuring a well-rounded experience. Whether you’re seeking a unique natural wonder or a chance to learn about the country’s cultural heritage, this tour promises an unforgettable journey.
Key Points

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Explore the UNESCO-listed Saint Paul Subterranean River National Park, featuring an underground river with guided boat tours and a buffet-style local Filipino lunch.
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Paddle through cathedral-like caverns showcasing impressive rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites in a unique natural wonder.
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Spot wildlife like bats and swiftlets during the journey and enjoy the captivating experience of one of the world’s natural marvels.
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The tour is wheelchair accessible, with some limitations for pregnant women and visually impaired individuals, and includes hotel pickup and drop-off.
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Additional activities in the area include the Ugong Rock Zipline, Mangrove Tour, and Sabang Zipline, providing opportunities for further exploration and adventure.
Overview of the Underground River Tour

The Underground River Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore one of the world’s longest navigable underground rivers.
For $48.04 per person, this day-long excursion includes a motorized boat ride, buffet lunch, and guided commentary in English.
Adventurers will traverse the UNESCO-listed Saint Paul Subterranean River National Park, marveling at the impressive limestone rock formations.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, though pregnant women, wheelchair users, and the visually impaired may face limitations.
Participants will also receive hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as a personal souvenir, making this an all-inclusive experience.
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Exploring the Subterranean River National Park

Where does the iconic Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park lie? In the Saint Paul Mountain Range of Palawan, 80 kilometers north of Puerto Princesa.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site and Ramsar Wetland draws visitors to its underground river, one of the longest in the world.
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Paddle through cathedral-like caverns adorned with spectacular rock formations.
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Spot unique wildlife, including the endangered Philippine mouse-deer and over 800 plant species.
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Admire the park’s mangrove forests, a critical habitat for diverse marine life.
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Discover ancient burial caves and witness the flow of underground rivers.
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Immerse in the park’s serene ambiance, a true natural wonder.
Highlights of the Tour

Embarking on the Underground River Tour offers a captivating experience that allows visitors to explore the park’s natural wonders up close. The guided boat ride through the river’s caverns showcases impressive rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites illuminated by the boat’s lights. Passengers can spot unique wildlife like bats, swiftlets, and crustaceans along the way. Complementing the scenic journey, the included buffet-style lunch provides a chance to refuel and savor local Filipino cuisine. With flexible booking options and free cancellation, the Underground River Tour is an enticing way to discover one of the world’s natural marvels.
| Activity | Duration | Cost |
| — | — | — |
| Underground River | 1 day | From $48.04 |
| Ugong Rock Zipline | – | Additional |
| Mangrove Tour | – | Additional |
| Sabang Zipline | – | Additional |
What to Expect During the Journey

Visitors embark on a captivating journey as they board the motorized boats that ferry them through the UNESCO-listed Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park.
The serene river winds through a primeval landscape, showcasing:
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Towering limestone cliffs adorned with lush foliage
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Dramatic rock formations sculpted by nature’s hand
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Echoing chambers that amplify the sounds of dripping water
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Glittering stalactites and stalagmites illuminated by strategically placed lights
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The chance to spot endemic wildlife, including birds and cave-dwelling creatures
Accompanied by knowledgeable guides, travelers enjoy this subterranean wonderland, marveling at its natural beauty and ecological significance.
More Great Tours NearbyDining Experience During the Tour
After seeing the captivating subterranean landscape, visitors can look forward to a rejuvenating dining experience.
The tour includes a buffet-style lunch, offering a diverse selection of local and international dishes. Theres some good refreshing beverages, including refreshments and bottled water, to quench their thirst after the boat ride.
The meal is served in a scenic setting, allowing visitors to savor the flavors while taking in the stunning natural surroundings. This dining experience provides a chance to refuel and recharge before continuing the adventure.
Additional Activities and Sidetrips

Along With the captivating underground river experience, the tour offers several sidetrip options that allow visitors to further explore the natural wonders of the region.
These include:
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Soaring through the Ugong Rock Zipline, offering breathtaking views of the lush landscape
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Taking in the serene Mangrove Tour, where one can witness the intricate ecosystems thriving in these coastal forests
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Embracing the adrenaline-fueled Sabang Zipline, which propels adventurers over the vibrant turquoise waters
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Venturing into the Sabang village, where visitors can embark on Bangkas (kayaks) to access the national park
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Discovering other unique geological formations and local wildlife in the surrounding areas.
Booking and Reservation Details

One can easily book the Underground River Tour through various online platforms or by contacting the tour operator, BIZ IT Travel and Tours.
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and flexible booking options allow visitors to reserve now and pay later. Guests should meet the tour guide at the designated meeting point.
They’ll need to bring a passport or ID card, as copies are accepted. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or visually impaired individuals.
Customer reviews praise the impressive rock formations and quality of the tour guide.
Customer Feedback and Recommendations

Customers generally praise the Underground River Tour, with reviews highlighting the impressive rock formations and the quality of the tour guide.
Some key feedback includes:
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Awestruck by the intricate cave systems and diverse wildlife
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Knowledgeable and engaging tour guides bring the experience to life
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Lunch spread receives high marks for variety and taste
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Boat ride through the river is a serene and picturesque journey
However, some note accessibility issues for those with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Ideal Group Size for the Tour?
The ideal group size for the Underground River tour is not specified, but most tour providers recommend small to medium-sized groups of up to 15 people for the best experience and to avoid overcrowding in the river cave.
Do I Need to Know How to Swim for the Tour?
No, you don’t need to know how to swim for the Underground River tour. The tour involves traveling by motorized boat, and life jackets are provided for safety. The tour is suitable for non-swimmers.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour Participants?
The Underground River tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. However, it’s not recommended for very young children or elderly visitors due to the physical nature of the activity. Participants should be able to navigate the boat and cave.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Participants can’t bring their own food and drinks on the Underground River tour. The tour package includes a buffet-style lunch and refreshments, which are provided as part of the tour experience.
How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Physical Disabilities?
The tour is not fully accessible for individuals with physical disabilities. While the boats and walkways are wheelchair-friendly, the terrain and narrow passages inside the cave may prove challenging. Visitors with mobility issues should consult the tour operator before booking.
The Sum Up
The Underground River tour offers a captivating journey through one of the world’s longest navigable underground rivers. For just $48.04 per person, visitors can enjoy a scenic boat ride, delicious local cuisine, and expert commentary on the stunning natural formations and wildlife. This unique experience in the UNESCO-listed Saint Paul Subterranean River National Park is an unforgettable opportunity to take in nature’s wonders.
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