Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour with Zipline

This detailed review explores the popular Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour with Zipline, offered by Travelcart Tour Services. While we haven’t personally taken this specific trip, it’s clear from reviews and detailed itineraries that this adventure offers a well-rounded mix of natural beauty, excitement, and culture. Perfect for travelers seeking a full-day experience in Palawan, this tour combines the awe of a UNESCO World Heritage site with the thrill of ziplining over pristine landscapes.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the stunning limestone formations and mystical cave interiors promise a memorable visual experience. Second, the smooth organization and knowledgeable guides—like Jed—ensure you’ll feel safe and well-informed throughout. Third, the combination of adventure and local cuisine, with a buffet lunch, keeps the whole day engaging and satisfying. However, one consideration is the long transfer times—about 1.5 hours each way—which might be tiring for some. This experience suits those who love exploring natural wonders, enjoy mild adventure activities, and value a well-structured day with a mix of scenic and adrenaline-filled moments.

Good To Know

• Stunning limestone formations and cave interiors make the underground river a visual highlight.
• Expert guides, like Jed, are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach.
• The zipline offers breathtaking views and a fun, active way to finish the day.
• The value for money is high, with included transportation, meals, and activities.
• Timing and logistics are smooth, but expect long transfers and group settings.
• The tour is ideal for adventurers, nature lovers, and those seeking a full-day excursion.

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An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Getting there: Transportation and Timing

The journey starts with a hotel pickup in Puerto Princesa, a convenience most travelers appreciate. From there, expect about 1.5 hours on a comfortable van, during which you’ll cruise past lush landscapes and coastal scenery—Palawan’s green and blue hues creating a perfect backdrop for photos or just relaxing. The tour lasts roughly 7 hours, including travel, the river exploration, lunch, and zipline. It’s a full day, but the main value here is the seamless flow between each activity, guided by a dependable team.

The boat ride: Approaching the UNESCO World Heritage Site

Once at Sabang Wharf, you’ll switch to a motorized boat for a 30-minute ride across emerald waters, which is both scenic and relaxing. The boat trip to the cave’s entrance offers an opportunity to admire the coastline and spot wildlife—many guides highlight the unique features and wildlife within the park, adding educational value. The boat ride is a highlight in itself, setting the tone for the adventure ahead.

Exploring the Underground River

Upon arrival at the cave, you’ll transfer to a paddle boat, which is eco-friendly and quiet, allowing a close-up view of the interior limestone formations. The guided tour inside covers 1.5 kilometers of navigable river, lasting about 45 minutes. Expect to see stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over millions of years, along with unusual rock shapes and possibly some local fauna.

Guides like Jed are noted for their informative commentary and humor, making the experience both educational and entertaining. The cool, mystical atmosphere inside the cave is undeniably captivating—an environment where every twist and turn reveals a new natural sculpture or surprise. Reviewers mention that the interior is both peculiar and awe-inspiring, transporting visitors into a different world.

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Food break and local cuisine

Back on land, a buffet lunch awaits at a local restaurant, allowing you to recharge. The variety of traditional Filipino dishes helps balance out the morning’s adventure, and many find this meal a highlight of the day. It’s a chance to reflect on the morning, swap stories with fellow travelers, and rest before the next activity.

The zipline experience: Scenic, exhilarating, and wildlife-filled

After lunch, a short van ride takes you to the zipline area. Here, a brief hike leads you to the starting point, with a chance to observe monkeys and other wildlife along the way. Once at the zipline platform, you’ll receive a safety briefing from a friendly guide before taking off.

The zipline itself offers wide views of the coastline, mountains, and forests, making it a breathtaking way to end your day. The adrenaline rush is complemented by the scenery, with many reviewers mentioning how lively monkeys add a fun, unexpected element. The zipline duration is around 30 minutes, giving you ample time to enjoy the ride and snap photos.

Returning to Puerto Princesa

The journey back involves another 1.5-hour van ride. Travelers often feel satisfied, having experienced a full day of natural wonders, adventure, and delicious food. The smooth organization and friendly guides make the whole day easy to enjoy, even with the longer travel times.

What We Love About This Tour

Expert guidance is a recurring theme in reviews. Jed, in particular, is noted for his knowledgeable, humorous approach, making the cave and park history engaging. That kind of personal touch can turn a good trip into a memorable one.

The scenic views—from the boat ride to the zipline—are consistently praised. The limestone formations inside the cave are described as “stunning” and “mystical,” capturing the imagination. The zipline offers breathtaking vistas, providing a perfect photo backdrop and a fun adrenaline boost, especially when you see monkeys swinging nearby.

Value for money is another key highlight. The $67 price covers all transportation, guides, entry permits, boat rides, zipline registration, lunch, and equipment—a comprehensive package considering the remote locations visited. Plus, the inclusion of audio device rental means you won’t miss out on guide commentary, even in group settings.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

While most reviews are glowing, some mention that the transfer times are quite long, which could be tiring for some travelers, especially those prone to motion sickness or with limited stamina. Also, the tour is shared, meaning it can be crowded, and the itinerary might feel rushed at times.

Plus, the tour is not suitable for young children under 7, pregnant women, or people with mobility issues, as it involves walking, hiking, and some small boat rides. The physical activity involved in the hike to the zipline base may be a challenge for some.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

If you’re a lover of natural landscapes and cultural sights, this tour offers a well-organized, immersive experience. The underground river itself is an awe-inspiring natural wonder that deserves the trip. Paired with the thrill of ziplining over verdant forests and coastlines, it appeals to adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.

The cultural aspect of Filipino cuisine at lunch also adds to the appeal, providing a taste of local life. The guides’ knowledge and friendly demeanor seem to make this a comfortable, engaging day—something you’ll look back on fondly.

This tour is particularly valuable for those seeking a full-day adventure that combines sightseeing, adventure, and cultural highlights, all at a reasonable price point. It’s a great way to see some of Palawan’s most iconic features without the hassle of organizing each activity separately.

The Sum Up

The Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour with Zipline offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experience. The combination of a UNESCO-listed underground river, scenic boat rides, wildlife sightings, and the adrenaline of ziplining makes this tour attractive for a diverse range of travelers.

The guides’ expertise and the scenic, often awe-inspiring landscapes are definite highlights, ensuring you get value and memorable moments. The inclusion of a delicious lunch and all necessary equipment simplifies planning, allowing you to focus on enjoying each part of the day.

However, travelers should consider the long transfer times and physically demanding parts of the tour. It’s best suited for those who are comfortable with group activities, moderate walking, and outdoor adventure. If these fit your travel style, this experience promises a truly rich and exciting day in Palawan.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, roundtrip van transfers are included during the tour, making logistics hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, including travel, activities, and meals.

What’s the best time to go?
Availability depends on weather, and the tour is subject to favorable conditions. Check with the provider for specific starting times.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 7 years, mainly due to walking and activity requirements.

What should I bring?
Bring cash for extra expenses, your passport or ID, and be prepared for a full day with comfortable clothing and shoes (though shoes are not allowed in certain areas—check specific instructions).

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, an environmental fee of Php 150 per person is payable at the site, and souvenirs or photos are available for purchase.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and reservations can be made flexible with a pay-later option.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility impairments due to walking and hiking involved.

Will I see wildlife?
Yes, wildlife such as monkeys are often visible, especially during the hike and zipline approach.

This tour offers a fantastic blend of natural wonders, engaging activities, and culture—ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive Palawan adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby