There are wonders of nature on earth that never cease to amaze people for many centuries. One of these wonders can rightly be considered an underground river on the Philippine island of Palawan. This river in the sea called Puerto Princesa flows inside the mountains of the island through karst caves for more than 8 kilometers. Not so long ago, just a few decades ago, this miracle was only available to local people and the Europeans did not even know about its existence, except for a few travelers.
But with the development of the tourist business in the Philippines, these places became accessible to the masses of people and are becoming increasingly popular every year. And it is not surprising that such beauty in the depths of the mountains can hardly be found anywhere else. Since 1971, this area has acquired the status of the National Park of the Philippines.
In its vicinity is a pristine mountain range, covered with centuries-old tropical forest. In this national park grows more than 800 species of plants, including nearly 300 trees. It is home to 195 species of birds, 30 mammals, 19 reptiles, and eight species of bats. Places are really very attractive for their unspoilt natural beauty.
In some places, the mountain range is replaced off the coast by amazing snow-white beaches. Sailing past these beaches is not immediately possible to notice a small cave in one of the many lagoons. Attention can only attract constantly mooring and sailing boats off the coast. This is the entrance to the underground river.
This river, flowing into the sea below the mountain range of the island, is one of the most unique natural phenomena of its kind. Scientists explain this phenomenon with the powerful tides existing here. Starting from a small grotto, gradually the riverbed turns into a series of huge caves, the walls and ceiling of which are moved apart to monstrous sizes. In some places, the width of this miraculous tunnel reaches 140, and its height is up to 80 meters.
Judging by the results of research, these caves have existed for several million years. Indeed, the bizarre forms of stalactites, bizarre influxes on the walls and vaults seem to carry the viewer many thousands of years ago, at the time when our ancestors lived. By the way, archaeologists found in these caves the remains of an ancient man who lived here at least 47,000 years ago. Going on this journey, take care of a waterproof cape or a raincoat and a helmet over your head and do not open your mouth very much when you look up. Well, a helmet and a life jacket will be given to you, and it is better to take a raincoat yourself and one-time. Armada bat, while staying in caves, will cover your clothes with a continuous cover of very unpleasant smelling mucus. But the beautiful thing that can be seen by sailing along this underground river compensates for all these inconveniences.
Puerto Princesa National Park is the national dignity and pride of the Philippines. It is recognized by UNESCO as one of the most significant World Heritage sites. It is given the status of a biosphere reserve. The National Park itself is open to the public, and boat trips are held on the underground river. The truth is not yet the whole length, but only 2.5 km. But this is quite enough to see all these wonders with my own eyes. Permission for this excursion can be obtained at the tourist office, in the small village of Sabang, located not far away. In the same place you can rent a boat to reach the place, because you simply cannot get there by other means of transport, it is forbidden to travel to this area. Swim there is not long, just 20-25 minutes.
Staying overnight in Sabang is practically nowhere, so tourists usually come from Manila or from Cebu to Palawan by plane to Puerto Princesa. Flight time is about 1.5 hours. It is possible and on the ferry, but he rarely goes, no more than 2 times a week. There are decent hotels in Puerto Princesa where you can stay. To the village of Sabang you need to go by car or minivan for about two hours. But it’s worth it. The impression of this tour you will remain for life. Good luck to you.
