Puerto Princesa Underground River & Firefly Tour: A Detailed Review

If you’re thinking of going to Palawan, Philippines, seeing the Puerto Princesa Underground River is pretty much a must-do. It’s not just any cave; it’s actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New7Wonders of Nature. The tour usually combines the subterranean river adventure with an evening spent watching fireflies light up the night sky, and that is definitely an experience. I mean, who wouldn’t want to see that?

Getting Ready for Your Underground River Adventure

You will want to sort a couple of things out beforehand, that way, your trip will go off without a hitch. Booking your tour is maybe the most thing to do. I mean, it’s such a popular attraction, securing a spot can sometimes be tough, particularly during peak season. Loads of local tour operators provide packages, which generally include transportation from your hotel in Puerto Princesa, the necessary permits, a boat for the river tour, and lunch, so, too, it’s super convenient.

Decide what time of year you want to travel. The climate in Puerto Princesa is kind of consistent year-round, it can be rather humid, too. The dry season, which usually runs from November to May, is when you will often see clearer skies and calmer waters. That’s probably when most folks like to visit. Yet, don’t completely rule out the wet season; the rain can sometimes add to the whole rainforest vibe. But, basically, keep an eye on the forecast. Is that going to impact your tour schedule at all?

What to bring with you is worth a think. Light, comfy clothes are a total go-to; that’s what I reckon. Swimwear underneath could be smart, since you never know if you will want to just dive into the ocean later on. It is probably also a good idea to bring a sarong or light jacket, because that boat ride on the way to the cave could be a bit breezy. You will also be doing a bit of walking, comfy shoes are absolutely essential, so you probably want to take that into account. Sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent? Absolutely necessary to pack. And, arguably, bringing a dry bag for your electronics isn’t a bad shout, just so everything’s safe and dry. You will thank me later.

The Underground River Experience: A Cave of Wonders

The tour starts with a brief trip from Puerto Princesa to Sabang Wharf, from where you hop on a boat. Just to warn you, the boat trip alone, which hugs the coastline, boasts great photo opportunities. You are almost guaranteed to get a few postcard-perfect pictures. When you get to the entry point to the cave, you’ll transfer to a smaller paddle boat, so everything stays eco-friendly. It can be quite exciting.

Going through the cave system? A truly fantastic adventure. The guide shines a spotlight as you glide along the river, that highlights crazy rock formations, huge caverns, and, as a matter of fact, bats. Loads of bats. I’m not usually great with enclosed spaces, and I have always had this daft thing with bats, so, I will be truthful, I was just a little nervous before heading inside. Though, the sheer scale and scope, like, really does take your mind off any niggles like that. Honestly? Don’t miss this adventure.

The ecosystem within the cave is like nothing else you have seen before. You are getting dripping stalactites and stalagmites, creating unbelievable shapes and shadows. It is definitely worth it just to pay attention to the guide; they normally are pretty passionate in explaining all the geographical and historical stories of the cave, which actually does give you a completely different way of thinking about this spot, as a matter of fact.

From Subterranean Depths to Twinkling Lights: The Firefly Watching Tour

Right, once you’re done exploring the subterranean river, some tour packages usually move directly onto the firefly watching part later that evening. So, basically, you’ll be transported to another part of the river, a spot that is away from the main city lights. Is that going to make the fireflies twinkle just that much brighter? Absolutely.

Getting on a quiet boat, mostly paddle-powered, too, adds to what can only be called an magical night. The guides are very clever and will, too, they’ll use a dim red light to attract the fireflies, all while doing everything possible not to spook these dainty creatures. The red light doesn’t disrupt their habitat.

The fireflies kind of put on an insane display of light, is that going to light up the riverbanks? I guarantee it. The trees, like, literally twinkle as though they were covered with fairy lights. This, really, is where the magic happens, folks. That’s not me getting overexcited, this definitely tops the lot, you know?

What You Need to Know About Eco-Tourism and Conservation Efforts

It’s well known, yet something always worth remembering: the Puerto Princesa Underground River is a well-preserved spot. Basically, tour operators and the local authorities kind of try their best to ensure this natural attraction isn’t harmed by tourism. Part of the fee you spend on the tour contributes to ongoing conservation efforts, is that going to include preservation work and community programs?

What will visitors have to do? Comply with guidelines which have been put in place, this keeps this beauty spot going. That would be things like not touching any of the rock formations within the cave and keeping noise to a respectful level. Which is a no brainer, anyway. It does matter that you stick to approved pathways to, arguably, stop any destruction to the fragile ecosystem along the riverbanks. Support responsible tourism; I feel this goes a seriously long way to keeping places just like this great.

Top Tips for an Incredible Trip

Book in advance: Very wise, and that, arguably, secures your place, and might even give you a few better deals.
Pack smartly: Layers, sunscreen, insect repellent, it might sound silly now, but, actually, it makes a heap of difference.
Respect the environment: So obvious. Pay attention, listen to guides. Follow any directions that get given.
Consider the season: the dry season will almost guarantee those bright, sun-shiny days, for sure. That said, though, do not completely write-off the wet season, it is still a brilliant time of year.
Engage with locals: Local guides really know their patch; talking to them usually adds such an untold amount of weight to the trip. You get so much info that you will not find in a book.

Thinking about visiting the Puerto Princesa Underground River? Or wanting to drift along the river at night just watching the fireflies flicker on and off? I really suggest it, I am. They will give you completely unique memories.

What about a place steeped in environmental respect? Spot on. This region doesn’t just showcase nature’s finery, as a matter of fact, it highlights, in very real terms, that you and I are able to appreciate these sites. This can be actioned in an environmentally sound, sympathetic style.

Honestly, what are you waiting for?

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