One of the highlights of my trip to Palawan was the underground river in Sabang. You can see bats in their natural habitat. The Puerta Princesa underground river has recently been announced one of the new seven wonders of the natural world.
It takes two hours from the capital city Puerta Princesa, where most people fly into. It can be done as a day trip as part of an organised tour. I booked my trips through Sheebang Hostel.
You can also book the underground river online with Viator (partners of TripAdvisor). Make sure that you book at least two or three days in advance, possibly more in high season.
Hotels in Puerta Princesa on Agoda (up to 50% discount)
Hotels in Puerta Princesa on Booking.com
Hotels in Puerta Princesa on Hotels.com (Book 10 nights, get one free)
There will be a stop on the way for water and toilets. The scenery en route from Puerta Princesa to Sabang is amazing – full of lush bright green vegetation.
Eco Tourism of the Underground River Conservation Area
As this is a conservation area, only 1000 tourists per day are allowed to visit the Underground River. Sound like a lot? Actually, it is around 10 people per boat, so only 100 boats per day.
The island of Palawan is an Asian pioneer in eco-tourism. You will be pleased to know that minimal lighting is used inside the cave so as not to disturb the bats while they are sleeping (they are nocturnal). The motto ‘take any memories, leave only footprints’ greets you as a sign before you board the initial motorized boat.
Book your Subterranean River tour with Viator
What to Expect During your Underground River Tour
When you board the motorized boat, expect your feet to get a little wet. That is why flip-flops are recommended. It is essential that you wear your life jacket at all times for safety. It’s approximately 10 to 15 minutes to the entrance of the underground river and you will see phenomenal limestone cliffs and blue waters on the approach.
Boarding the motor boats to head to the Underground River
When you arrive at the entrance to the underground river, you will need to continue to wear the same life jacket for the paddle boat. Don’t worry, you won’t have to do any paddling, the guide will do that for you.
You are given audio guide to wear and listen to as you enter the underground river. This highlights important safety aspects and explain how you must behave around the bats.
If you are scared of the bat touching you or flying in your face, don’t worry, they usually avoid humans. If they do touch you, they won’t hurt, they will simply fly past.
However, if you are quite scared of the bats, I recommend that you sit in the middle or rear of the boat. There was a woman on another boat is sitting at the front and apparently got hit in the face by that it brushed her cheek and she squealed!