Welcome to
Puerto Princesa Underground River
“One of the New 7 Wonders of Nature”
Step Into a Subterranean Paradise
Discover the breathtaking beauty of one of the New7Wonders of Nature. Glide through an underground river system filled with majestic rock formations and hidden chambers.
8.2 km
Total length of the underground river
4.3 km
Navigable section of the river
1 of 7
New7Wonders of Nature
1999
UNESCO Heritage Site designation
100+
Unique wildlife species
20M+ years
Age of limestone formations
No. 1
Top tourist attraction in Palawan
5★ Rated
Highly reviewed by travelers
Total length of the underground river
Navigable section of the river
New7Wonders of Nature
UNESCO Heritage Site designation
Unique wildlife species
Age of limestone formations
Top tourist attraction in Palawan
Highly reviewed by travelers
Welcome to Puerto Princesa City
About Puerto Princesa Underground River
This is the official page of Puerto Princesa City Subterranean River, Palawan Philippines. The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park (PPSRNP) is one of the most important protected areas of the Philippines. It features a spectacular limestone or karst landscape withone of the most complex cave systems. It contains an 8.2 km long underground river that flow directly to the sea. The lower half of the river is brackish and is affected by the ocean’s tide. An underground river directly flowing into the sea, and the associated tidal influence, makes it a significant natural phenomenon. The discovery of at least 11 minerals, crystal and egg shape rock formations, and a 20 million year old Miocene age serenia fossil in the cave further add to its scientific value. The Puerto Princesa Underground River is declared as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature.
The PPSRNP contains a full mountain to the sea ecosystem and protect forests, which are among the most significant in Asia. It represents significant habitat that are important for biodiversity conservation.
In recognition of the PPSRNP’s globally significant natural value, it was inscribed to the List of World Heritage Sites on December 4, 1999. Inscription on the list confirms the outstanding universal value of the Park and it’s well integrated state of conservation.
In recognition of the PPSRNP’s globally significant natural value, it was inscribed to the List of World Heritage Sites on December 4, 1999. Inscription on the list confirms the outstanding universal value of the Park and it’s well integrated state of conservation.
The PPSRNP is managed by the City Government of Puerto Princesa based on a program centered on environmental conservation and sustainable development. It has the distinction of being the first national park devolved and successfully managed by a Local Government Unit.
It is managed by the City thru a Protected Area Management Board (PAMB), multi-sector body that provides policy direction and other oversight functions. It is a model for effective protected area management and sustainable tourism in the Philippines.
The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is a source of pride, and a key element in the identity of the people of Puerto Princesa in particular, and of the Philippines as a whole. The conservation of the Park is a symbol of commitment by the Filipino people in the global efforts to conserve our natural heritage.
Wonder of Nature
The PPUR is one of the few such caves which the general public can easily experience and enjoy. It is navigable up to 4.3 km. and is reputed to be the longest navigable underground river in the World. Park operated paddle boats take visitors for 1 hour tour of the cave to appreciate the different rock formations as well as the thousands of bats and swiftlets that inhabit the cave. Schedule are from 8:30 – 3:30 pm Tours are scheduled daily except during extreme weather conditions.
Jungle Trekking
For outdoor lovers who are physically prepared to endure the mountainous terrain, an alternative 5.3 km long trail from Sabang to the entrance of the Underground River is a challenge. The trail is designed in such a way that it allows visitors to trek into the different forest formations to observe wildlife and sounds of the wilderness. It is truly a rewarding experience of an athletic jungle adventure. Hiking shoes, drinking water and insect repellant are recommended. The trail is open from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm daily. Temporary closed for renovation.
Wildlife Watching
The PPSRNP is designated an Important Bird Area (IBA) and Endemic Bird Area (EBA) by Birdlife International (BI). At least 165 birds have been recorded including all 15 endemic bird species of Palawan. One must start early and preferably equipped with binoculars to see the brightly colored bird species of the Park. Notable are the Palawan peacock pheasant, Palawan hornbill, blue-napped parrot. Other wildlife commonly seen are monkeys and monitor lizards.
Mangrove Forest Tour
The activity is a community based sustainable eco – tourism project initiated by the Park Management. Tour the Sabang River on board paddle boats to observe mangrove forest and appreciate what an ecosystem free of human intervention looks like. Visitors are also given a chance to contribute to conservation by planting mangrove saplings in designated areas.
White Sand Beaches
The shoreline comprises some of the island’s most pristine and beautiful beaches. Most popular are the Sabang beach, Panaguman beach, and Marta Fe beach. The cool and crystal waters make it ideal for swimming and enjoying the sun.
Adventure Caving
Aside from the Underground River, the PPSRNP boasts a number of cave systems worth exploring. Climbing Ugong Rock allows one to view the spectacular karst formations and surrounding natural beauty. Other areas to explore include the Lions Cave, Daylight Hole and the Kawili Cave.
Ethnographic Museum
For display, exhibit and presentation of history and culture of the Batak and Tagbanua, two of the indigenous cultural groups present in the Park, visit the Ethnographic Museum located at the Park Visitor Center. Briefings and printed information could also be availed at the center.