Subterranean River (Underground River) Tour
December 4, 2009 | Filed under Adventure | 134 views
On our last itinerary, we visited the UNESCO World Heritage Site-Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, also known as the Underground River.
The land travel from the city to Sabang beach took us approximately 3 hours. It was raining when we got there. Kuya Mol, our tour guide went to the park office to get a permit to visit the Underground River. He booked us for a boat to the river entrance.
We waited for our turn to get in the boat. The park office has a numbering system per group making it more systematic. The boat only carries 6 people.
On our way to the Underground River entrance, we were amazed on how strong the waves are. It got me really scared because my life-vest sucks big time. It’s still raining on our way to the underground.
Subterranean Underground River
Click pictures to enlarge
In a few more minutes we arrived in the entrance. After registration, we waited for our turn to ride in the small boat that would take us in the cave. Each boat has a battery-powered lamp in front. Edi took charge in holding it and assist the boat as he points to the formations.
Click pictures to enlarge
Our boat man’s witty stories break the silence inside the cave. It was dark and cold inside, looking above there are bats hanging and sleeping. Their distinct smell was present all over the cave.
Click pictures to enlarge
We were so amazed of the dazing sight of the stones inside the cave. I have lots of pictures there but most of it are not good since I don’t have enough light to focus. The pictures below are some of the formations I was able to capture.
Click pictures to enlarge
The Underground River is the longest searched underground river in the world. Approximately 8.2 kilometers have been discovered wherein, 4.3 kilometers are passable, but for the tourist it would only be limited to 1.5 kilometers equivalent to about 45 minutes tour. According to the tour guide if we go further it’s actually a dead end and a bit dangerous, and if you wish to explore more you’ll be needing a special permit to explore the rest of the river.
This is a wonderful experience everyone should do. I am a witness to its beauty. This is our pride, lets vote “Puerto Princesa Underground River” as one of the new 7 wonders of the world. To vote click here!
