Discover the hidden beauty of the Philippines and visit the island of Palawan, known for its picture-perfect beaches and diverse biodiversity. This westernmost province is a true tropical paradise waiting to be explored.
One of the most fascinating tourist destinations in Palawan is the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park in the city of Puerto Princesa. This world-renowned park has earned a place among the New7Wonders of Nature and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. It offers visitors a chance to explore the wonders of the underground river and its ecosystem, which has adapted to life underground over hundreds of years.
The Puerto Princesa Underground River is home to an array of species that can only be found within its caves, including fish, crabs, giant spiders, bats, swallows, and snakes. Visitors can join a tour and get a glimpse of the bats and swallows that are usually the only species visible in the caves.
If you’re looking for a truly unique and breathtaking experience, then a visit to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is a must. To make the most of your visit, it is recommended to plan your trip during the dry season, from November to May, when the waves are calmer and the weather is more stable. Keep in mind that the warmest months are from March to May and the wet season lasts from June to October.
The park is located in the Saint Paul Mountain Range, about 80 kilometers north of Puerto Princesa, and is easily accessible through road trips to the seaside village of Sabang. This protected area is managed by the Puerto Princesa city government and is a popular destination for those looking to discover the natural beauty of the Philippines. So, don’t hesitate and book your trip to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park today!
Puerto Princesa Underground River
The Puerto Princesa Underground River, located in the southwestern part of the Philippines, is one of the world’s most stunning cave systems. Comprising an area of approximately 22,202 hectares, this subterranean river system boasts a spectacular limestone karst landscape, pristine natural beauty, and diverse wildlife. The highlight of this unique site is the 8.2 km long underground river that flows directly into the sea, with its lower half being brackish and subject to tidal influence, making it a global natural phenomenon.
Tourists can experience the beauty of the Puerto Princesa Underground River through a river cruise, where they can admire the magnificent rock formations and diverse ecosystems, ranging from forests on ultramafic soil to mangrove forests. This park is home to exceptional biodiversity, with the Palawan Moist Forest recognized by the World Wildlife Fund as the largest and most valuable limestone forest in Asia, containing the richest tree flora with high levels of regional and local endemism.
The Puerto Princesa Underground River National Park is also significant in its management system, being the first national park in the Philippines to be devolved and successfully managed by a local government unit. This symbolizes the commitment of the Filipino people to preserving and protecting their natural heritage.
In conclusion, the Puerto Princesa Underground River is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, offering a unique combination of stunning natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and cultural significance.