Puerto Princesa: Underground River and Firefly Watching Tour in Puerto Princesa

Puerto Princesa is a city on the western coast of the island of Palawan in the Philippines. It is known for its stunning underwater river, and for the opportunity to watch fireflies. Here you will learn more about what to expect on a tour of this beautiful place.

What to Expect on an Underground River and Firefly Watching Tour in Puerto Princesa

Taking an underground river and firefly watching tour in Puerto Princesa is an unforgettable experience that combines two breathtaking natural wonders. On this tour, you will get the chance to explore Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park and also witness the captivating fireflies that light up the night sky.

The day begins with an early morning pick-up from your accommodation. Once all passengers are aboard, the tour guide will give you a brief overview of what to expect during the day, including any safety rules for the trip. After a brief drive, you will arrive at Subterranean River National Park, where you will take a boat along the underground river.

Exploring Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park

The park is an area of outstanding natural beauty and is home to many species of flora and fauna. As your cruise down the underground river, your guide will point out some of the flora and fauna as well as some interesting geological features. You may get to explore some short trails along with your guide and learn more about the forest and its inhabitants.

The underground river has many unique formations carved by water over time, as well as some small caves that may be explored with your guide’s assistance. The total time within the park usually lasts around two hours including time to walk around the trails and take a few photos.

Firefly Watching at Iwahig Firefly Watching

After leaving the park, you will be taken a short drive to the Iwahig Firefly Watching centre. Here, you will get to witness one of nature’s most captivating phenomena – fireflies! Fireflies are tiny beetles that have an internal light organ that produces bioluminescence. This natural phenomenon is both a beautiful sight to behold as well as beneficial for attracting mates.
Upon arriving at Iwahig Firefly Watching centre, you will board a traditional Filipino banca boat along with your guide. In this tranquil setting, you can observe the fireflies lighting up the mangrove trees as they attract their mates. As your guide provides further insight into the behaviour of fireflies, you will enjoy a unique experience far removed from man-made sources of illumination. The firefly watching tour usually lasts around one hour during which you can take as many photos as you like.

Booking a Tour

If you are interested in taking an underground river and firefly watching tour in Puerto Princesa, it is important to book a reliable tour operator. GetYourGuide provides a well-rounded selection of underground river and firefly watching tours of Puerto Princesa, ranging from half day tours to full day excursions. Tours include transport from your hotel, entrance fees, guide services and refreshments at half-day tours, lunch in full day tours, and more.
Whenever booking a tour, it is important to read reviews from past customers and make sure that the tour is operated by experienced guides that know how to keep passengers safe. GetYourGuide holds a great selection of tours with plenty of customer reviews, so be sure to check out their selection if you are interested in exploring the amazing sights of Puerto Princesa safely and securely.
For those who are looking for a unique way to experience two of Puerto Princesa’s most stunning natural wonders, an underground river and firefly watching tour should not be missed. This tour combines two unique and authentic experiences set amid breathtaking scenery – an opportunity not to be missed! To book your trip to Puerto Princesa now, visit GetYourGuide for detailed information about each tour and for secure online booking.

An Insider’s Guide to Puerto Princesa: Beyond the Tourist Highlights

Puerto Princesa is a breathtakingly beautiful city with much more beyond its famed Underground River and Firefly Watching Tour. This insider’s guide will take you on a journey through the lesser-known yet equally fascinating attractions, delectable dining destinations, and cultural experiences that will make your trip to Puerto Princesa truly unforgettable.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems Only Known to the Locals

While the Underground River is undoubtedly a must-visit attraction, there are some fantastic hidden gems that are often overlooked by many tourists. One such place is Nagtabon Beach, which features pristine waters, white sand, and towering cliffs. You can go swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking, but make sure you stay a little longer to enjoy the stunning sunset. Another hidden gem is the Baker’s Hill, a park filled with whimsical sculptures and a delightful bakery offering freshly made pastries and bread. Don’t miss their famous hopia, a sweet pastry that comes in various flavors.

Dining Spots: Savoring Puerto Princesa’s Local Cuisine

Puerto Princesa offers a diverse food culture that blends Filipino, Chinese, and Spanish influences. The city is particularly famous for its seafood, and Kinabuchs Grill & Bar serves some of the most mouth-watering grilled seafood dishes. If you’re looking for a more adventurous experience, head to Balinsasayaw, where they serve soups made with the famous bird’s nest. Another delicacy to sample is Tamilok, a type of worm found in mangroves that is cooked with vinegar and chili. For those with an insatiable sweet tooth, try Tiki Bar’s banana split, served with homemade ice cream and toppings.

Cultural Experiences: Immersing Yourself in Puerto Princesa’s Rich Culture

Puerto Princesa’s culture is a colorful mosaic of different ethnicities, traditions, and beliefs. A visit to the Palawan Heritage Center provides an excellent introduction to the city’s history and culture. Take part in the interactive exhibits and learn about the local tribes, natural wonders, and environmental advocacy. For a more immersive experience, attend the Baragatan Festival, which celebrates the local culture with lively music, dance, and street performances. You can also visit the Palawan Museum, which features artifacts of the city’s precolonial and colonial eras.

Local History: Fascinating Tales from Puerto Princesa’s Past

Puerto Princesa has a rich and colorful history dating back to before the Spanish colonization. One such tale is that of Tang Hong, a Chinese trader who came to Palawan in the eighteenth century and married a local princess. His descendants became prominent members of the community, blending Chinese and Filipino traditions. Another fascinating story is that of the Balabac municipality, where a unique dialect that includes Malay, Indonesian, and Arabic words is spoken. The dialect is a result of trade relations with the nearby islands of Borneo and Sulawesi.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unique Experiences in Puerto Princesa

For those seeking adventure, exploring the Ugong Rock Cave is a must-do. The cave features limestone formations, a zipline, and rope bridges that make for a thrilling and memorable experience. Another unique adventure is exploring the colorful and vibrant Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. Rent a boat and paddle your way through the underground river while taking in the mesmerizing sights of the stalactites and stalagmites. And if you want a quiet retreat, head to Sabang’s Mangrove Paddle Boat Tour, where you’ll be taken through a maze of mangroves, home to various birds, fish, and other creatures.

In summary, Puerto Princesa is more than just its Underground River and Firefly Watching Tour. With these insider tips, you’ll discover hidden gems, savor the taste of local cuisine, immerse yourself in the rich culture, learn fascinating tales from the past, and experience unique adventures. Let this insider’s guide be your key to unlock the secrets of Puerto Princesa.