My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Travel and Adventure

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River

By on September 19, 2025

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, recognized as one of the ‘New 7 Wonders of Nature,’ is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring a river that meanders through an expansive limestone cave. This underground river is among the most popular attractions in Palawan and it is the world’s longest navigable underground river.

The cave was dimly lit, yet our boat was equipped with a powerful light that illuminated the cave as we navigated through. The cave’s formations were breathtaking, each one unique from the ceiling down to the depths below. There were various rock formations including ones resembling a church, a mushroom, and an umbrella, just to name a few…

The underground river can be found within a cave network typically in a limestone or karst environment where the riverbed remains concealed and the water navigates through chambers and tunnels in the rock.

The water was not the clear turquoise it used to be due to the rain that persisted throughout the day, the river’s color appeared somewhat muddy but this was only the case for that particular day.

As we explored the cave, it was peaceful and calm and the thrilling experience came from certain spots where the cave walls were dripping with cold water leaving us a bit wet.

There is a section within the cave that serves as a habitat for bats where they can be observed hanging.The only sound you’ll hear inside the cave is the water dripping from the ceiling.

Underground River tour includes boat excursions to the cave followed by a guided 45-minute exploration of the 8.2 km navigable river that flows through a stunning limestone cave system.

Visitors are observed here wearing life vests and hard hats, which are mandatory before embarking on a cave tour with a paddled boat. A boatman is present to paddle the boat during the tour while visitors take pleasure in listening to the audio that provides information about the cave.

Audio Guide

A portable device that offers recorded information for visitors exploring a cave, it provides information about the cave’s formations and wildlife, all while emphasizing the importance of environmental protection.

The river is bordered by mangroves and palm trees.

As the river exits the cave, it flows into a coastal lagoon, which is separated from the ocean by a sandy beach where the water eventually drains into the sea.

Underground River in Puerto Princesa is a famous example showcasing a river that winds through a stunning limestone scenery and flows straight into the sea.

Our trip to the Underground River in Puerto Princesa was truly memorable, as it fills me with pride that attractions in my country can also be recognized as one of the new seven wonders of nature. I feel a sense of pride.

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