It’s no wonder locals and tourists alike have placed Palawan at the top of their travel bucket list in the Philippines.

The place is home to several breathtaking destinations! The Puerto Princesa Underground River is just one of the many perfect examples.

Stretching 8.2 kilometers long, the Puerto Princesa Underground River is considered the second longest subterranean river in the world.

Housed within its caves are stunning rock formations and chambers, while beyond it is a rich biodiversity considered among the best on earth.

If you haven’t been, then you might be missing out on these five things.

1. A world-class site

The Underground River has been recognized internationally twice! It was included in the New 7 Wonders of Nature in 2012 and was also listed in UNESCO’s World Heritage List, recognizing its distinct natural structure, astonishing formations, and rich ecosystem–truly like no other.

2. The beauty of its biodiversity

The larger Puerto Princesa Subterranean National Park is a haven for hundreds of species of flora, birds, mammals, and reptiles. Going through the forest alone via the Sabang Jungle Trail is already a sight as you will come across beautiful local flowers and plants, as well as creatures freely roaming around like monitor lizards and Palawan hornbills.

3. Striking rock formations

One of the highlights when visiting almost any place in Palawan is witnessing its world-famous rock formations. Aboard your boat to the subterranean river, you will be first greeted by a spectacular, towering limestone karst landscape. Then throughout your journey in the cave, you will be toured to encounter unbelievable stalagmite and stalactite formations that glisten in the dark.

4. Hidden wonders

As it turns out, there is more to the underground river than rock formations and a variety of bat species. During an exploration in 2010, geologists and environmentalists were able to uncover more natural features in the cave. There is another level that leads to small waterfalls, a cave dome, a deep water hole, deeper caves, and more river channels and cave species.

5. Adventure-filled destination

You can also enjoy the endless activities awaiting you in Sabang, the jump-off site to the Underground River. If you prefer a peaceful and calming day, you can swim in the beach, hike to the falls, or relax during a mangrove paddle boat tour. Those who want a little more thrill and fun can go on a zipline ride, do a challenging Ugong Rock Adventure, or trek in the Hundred Caves. There’s an activity for everyone!

Better grab the whole family or your best buds because you’re in for an adventure in Puerto Princesa Subterranean National Park!