St. Paul's Underground River

Better if you go here month of March-May (summer in Philippines), so that the water is clear. We went there last November 2007, notice the water in the picture.

if you are going to palawan, this is a must-see. because it truly is something different. however, ready yourself for a very long rough trip. as the joke says, you’ll have a free butt massage coz of the rough roads. but when you reach the place, it is really beautiful and different :)

take the tour package coz it would be cheaper.

Going to the underground river is an adventure itself. We came from Puerto Princesa and it took us almost 4 hours (then) to go to the pier where a boat ride took us to the underground river. Upon reaching the island, we trekked to the place where the underground river boats were. There were monkeys roaming freely. The entrance to the underground river is a sight to see with its calm deep blue green water encased by sharp, pointed rocks.

Now, going inside the underground river is another totally different experience. If you’re afraid of the dark and deep water, then this adventure could pose a problem for you. Each boat carries one light only that primarily points to fantastic stalagmites. The boat ride is quite long, more than 30 minutes and if I remember correctly, covers at least 4 kms. On your way back, when you see the opening of the river, you kinda heave a sigh of relief because the ride is almost over. Then again, you are met with breath taking sceneries that make you wanna stay a bit longer.

the boat ride to the actual venue is so breathtaking, a tear actually fell from my eye. clear baby blue waters, fine white sand. the underground river itself is rich in make-believe statues and sounds of clicking birds. the 45-minute tour as well as the 2-hour drive from the city was well worth it.

Beware of the monkeys… running on the wild, they can identify and grab food, so don’t try to feed them. hehe.. Got to have your cams handy here. As you would even see monitor lizards and a variety of birds on the way to the cave. And while in the cave don’t look up with mouths open. hmm.. And just to be safe, don’t forget to place on insect repelants before heading on.

This is a once in a lifetime experiece indeed! Unless you’re a local or just decided to come back. The 2 and a half hours road trip from Palawan’s center, Puerto Princesa, plus a 10-minute boat ride from the pier of Panaguman Beach and a few minutes walk thru the jungle is so worth it! The breath taking views and amazing rock formations, the flora and fauna.. gee… and when you finally ride that boat going in the caves, more mystery unfolds. You gotta be there to know what I mean. And make sure you have someone special with you..

Finally! One goal done! Never thought I’d go here (this year)

the place of breath-taking beauty, elegance, exotic places and food, nature… everything combined and even more. ok, I’m from the same country.. but im guilty of not having been able to tour it yet. But if I were to invite a foreign friend, this is the first place we’d go to (well, after touring a li’l of Manila that is).