Puerto Princesa, Palawan Revisited - Part 2 (Subterranean River)

I remember telling my readers how fascinated I was with the beauty of Palawan. 7 months ago I mentioned here, “Palawan is a stunning place. And I will definitely frequent this paradise!” No doubt we were back. And I’m still very much in love with Palawan!

I already described to you my journey to the famous Puerto Princesa Subterranean River during my first time visit there (click here for that article). I just want to mention in this post some tips on how to get to the underground river if you’re not getting a tour guide (normally, it’s Php 1,500 per individual for a complete package). Sometimes, a package tour would cost you more especially when you’re a big group. It’s still up to you if you think you can save by hiring a travel and tour guide and pay a package tour or just do it on your own. If you chose the latter, this post might be helpful to you.

First of all, you have to get a van that will transport you back and forth (from your hotel going to the wharf). The river is located on the mid western coast of Palawan and it would take you an approximately 1 hour of road trip to get there. The construction of road going to Sabang is almost completed so it’s lesser travel time now compared before when it was more than 2 hours of rough road travel. Just imagine that? Anyway, we negotiated a van for Php 3,500. That’s round trip already.

Before you head to Sabang, make sure to secure first your permit from the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park Office. You will definitely see this office on your way to the wharf. Also, the driver would know so just ask him to bring you to the office to do your registration and pick up your permit papers. You will not pay anything from this office.

Once you’re in the wharf, there is an office there where you would pay your entrance fee to the Subterranean River. Adult – Php 150 and Children 6-12 years old – Php 30.

After paying the entrance fee, it’s now time to negotiate for a motorboat. This is the boat that would bring you to the beach where the Underground River is located. Each boat can only accommodate 6 passengers. Boat hire is Php 700. Travel time – another 20 minutes. I also remember paying an additional of Php 3 per head + Php 10 for the entire group as an entrance fee to port going to Subterranean River.

Remember, this is not the same boat that will tour you inside the cave. Once the motorboat reaches the Sabang shoreline, you will still have to trek your way down to the Underground River. Again, while waiting for your turn to get inside the cave, make sure you register your name and fill up some important information. Lastly, wear your head gear and life vest and enjoy your 45 minute tour of our very own Puerto Princesa Subterranean River!

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park Office
No. 11 National Highway, Junction 1
Brgy. San Miguel, Puerto Princesa City 5300, Palawan, Philippines
Tel: 048-433-2409 Fax: 048-434-2509
Email: admin@puerto-undergroundriver.com or reservation@puerto-undergroundriver.com