Puerto Princesa Underground River: Journey Into Earth's Wonders

Visit Duration

Entrance Fee

Tour package ₱2,200-2,600 per person (includes permit, boat, lunch, guide). DIY option: Permit ₱250 (foreigners) + audio guide ₱85 + environmental fee ₱150 + boat ride ₱200 = approximately ₱920. Jungle Trail ₱200 extra. Only 900 visitors allowed daily - permits required.

Best Time to Visit

Dry season (December to May) offers the best conditions. The cave may close during heavy rains due to flooding risk. Book permits at least 1-2 days in advance as daily capacity is strictly limited to 900 visitors. Morning tours tend to be less crowded. April-May can be extremely hot.

How to Get There

From Puerto Princesa City: Take a van from San Jose Terminal to Sabang (₱200 foreigners, 2-2.5 hours). From Sabang Wharf, take a 15-minute boat ride to the Underground River entrance. Most visitors book organized tours which include all transfers. Tour buses depart Puerto Princesa around 7-8 AM.

What to Expect

A 45-minute paddleboat ride through the cave's navigable section (4.5km). Your audio guide provides commentary on rock formations, including the Holy Family, Mushroom, and Vegetable formations. Expect to see thousands of bats, swiftlets, and unique cave ecosystems. The cave is humid and dark - bring a light jacket. Photography is allowed but flash is prohibited. Life jackets and helmets are provided and mandatory.