Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park
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Port
Puerto Princesa, Philippines
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$250
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 7½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
This park features a spectacular limestone karst landscape with an underground river. One of the river's distinguishing features is that it emerges directly into the sea, and its lower portion is subject to tidal influences. The site contains a full 'mountain-to-sea' ecosystem and has some of the most important forests in Asia.
The St Paul Underground River is one of the world's longest underground rivers. It is located within Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, about 55 miles (two hours) from Puerto Princesa city.
En route to the park you'll pass through picturesque countryside and stop at the city of Sabang. From there, it is a 20-minute outrigger boat ride to the park.
Once at the park, you'll board a smaller outrigger canoe for the journey along the underground section of the river. The boat travels approximately two miles into the cave, and along the way you are treated to a spectacular display of rock formations and cathedral-like chambers sculpted by nature over millions of years.
A buffet lunch will be served at a nearby beach resort before you return to the ship.
Please note:
Minimum age is 10 years. Wear your swimsuit under your clothing; bring a towel, reef-safe/biodegradable sunscreen, a cover-up for further protection from the sun, and a hat. Be prepared to get wet. Not advisable for guests with mobility limitations, as getting into the outrigger canoe and paddleboat can present difficulties and is a wet landing. Life jackets are provided. Tours are operated by van and canoe. Approximately one third of the two-hour drive to Sabang Warf is over rough roads. Ride will be windy and bumpy. Not advisable for pregnant women or guests with back or neck problems. Due to crowding at the park, expect delays for entry to the underground river. The level of guide experience varies in Puerto Princesa due the remoteness of its location. Limited tourism infrastructure is part of the charm here, and you are trading breadth of experience for authentic interaction. Please bring your spirit of adventure and bear with any language difficulties your guide may encounter and with any operational surprises that may crop up.