Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park

Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River Overview

Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park, located on the northern coast of the island of Palawan in the Philippines, is a remarkable natural wonder that has captivated the imagination of travelers and nature enthusiasts worldwide. Established as a national park in 1971 and later designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, the park spans an area of approximately 22.2 square kilometers (about 8.6 square miles). It is renowned for its iconic feature, the Puerto Princesa Underground River, which is one of the world’s longest navigable underground rivers, stretching over 8.2 kilometers (about 5 miles) through a spectacular limestone karst landscape before flowing directly into the South China Sea.

The park’s landscape is characterized by its impressive limestone karst mountains, pristine natural beauty, and rich biodiversity. The underground river itself winds through a cave system that features major formations of stalactites and stalagmites, and several large chambers, including one of the world’s largest cave rooms. This subterranean river is home to a unique ecosystem, with species of fish and invertebrates adapted to the dark environment.

Beyond the underground river, Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park boasts a diverse range of habitats, from mountain-to-sea ecosystems that include lush forests, mangroves, and coastal areas. These environments provide a haven for biodiversity, hosting a variety of plant and animal species, some of which are endemic to Palawan. The park is an important conservation area for Philippine biodiversity, protecting species such as the Palawan peacock-pheasant, monitor lizards, and numerous species of birds.

Visitors to the park can explore the underground river by boat, a journey that offers a glimpse into a mesmerizing world beneath the earth’s surface, as well as engage in other activities such as trekking, bird watching, and enjoying the park’s scenic landscapes. The Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park is not only a testament to the Philippines’ natural heritage but also a symbol of successful conservation efforts, showcasing the extraordinary beauty of one of the planet’s most unique ecosystems.