The Puerto Princesa Underground River is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Palawan's top attractions. While the river tour itself is only 30–45 minutes, the entire experience — including travel to and from the site — takes 6 to 8 hours. Your outfit matters more than you might think.
What to Wear
Tops
Go with breathable, lightweight, quick-drying fabrics. You'll be in a tropical climate all day, moving between air-conditioned vans and outdoor heat. Cotton will get heavy with sweat; synthetic or blended fabrics perform better.
Bottoms
Board shorts or convertible pants that zip off into shorts are ideal. They handle the transition between the boat ride, walking trails, and any side activities like Ugong Rock Adventure.
Footwear
Aqua shoes are the best choice — they handle wet and dry terrain well. If you're taking the less-known hiking trail through the rainforest instead of the outrigger boat, hiking shoes are better. Slippers work as a budget option but aren't ideal for the rocky paths.
Accessories
- Cap or hat for sun protection
- Scarf or buff (versatile — sun protection, sweat wipe, or light cover)
- Sunglasses
What to Avoid
- Flowy dresses: The nearby zip line and Ugong Rock climbing make dresses impractical
- Swimwear only: You cannot swim inside the Underground River, so there's no need for swim-only attire
- Heavy jeans: They'll be uncomfortable in the heat and take forever to dry if splashed
Two Routes to the River
Most tourists take the popular outrigger boat to the cave entrance. But there's also a less-known hiking trail through the rainforest — a more adventurous option that requires sturdier footwear. Both lead to the same river experience.
Quick Tip
Think about what you'd be comfortable wearing for 6 to 8 hours in tropical heat, with intermittent boat rides and walking. Comfort and breathability beat style on this tour.