About this event
Puerto Princesa Underground River Day 2026 is set to be celebrated on Wednesday, 11 November 2026 in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan. This annual event honors the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a distinguished natural landmark and one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. More than a tourism anniversary, PPUR Day is a celebration of biodiversity, environmental stewardship, local communities, and the extraordinary river system hidden beneath the limestone mountains of Palawan."Puerto Princesa Underground River Day is an opportunity to celebrate biodiversity, environmental stewardship, local communities, and the remarkable river system hidden beneath the limestone mountains of Palawan."The Story of Puerto Princesa Underground River DayCommemorating Nature's WonderPuerto Princesa Underground River Day is observed every year on 11 November. In 2026, PPUR Day falls on Wednesday, 11 November 2026. This observance was formally established in 2014 through Proclamation No. 816, signed by then-President Benigno S. Aquino III. The proclamation declared 11 November of every year as Puerto Princesa Underground River Day, encouraging national agencies, local governments, and other sectors to support related programmes and activities.Event name: Puerto Princesa Underground River DayAlso known as: PPUR DayDate: Wednesday, 11 November 2026Location: Puerto Princesa City and the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, PalawanPurpose: To honour the Puerto Princesa Underground River and its recognition as one of the New Seven Wonders of NatureOfficial 2026 programme: Not yet publishedWhat to Expect on PPUR DayCelebrating Biodiversity and CommunityThe observance celebrates a natural site that brings international attention to Palawan and the Philippines. It focuses attention on the responsibility that comes with protecting a globally important landscape. PPUR Day is connected with nature conservation, biodiversity education, sustainable tourism, and community participation."For visitors, PPUR Day can be an especially meaningful time to experience the Underground River."Nature conservationBiodiversity educationSustainable tourismCommunity participationEnvironmental stewardshipPride in PalawanYouth awarenessCoastal and forest protectionCultural appreciationResponsible travelThe celebration has previously included the Subaraw Biodiversity Festival, which highlighted the richness of the underground river’s surrounding ecosystem.The Puerto Princesa Underground RiverA Natural MarvelThe Puerto Princesa Underground River is located about 76 kilometres northwest of Puerto Princesa City on Palawan’s western coast. The river flows through a dramatic cave system surrounded by the protected forest and limestone landscapes of the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. Visitors enter the cave by small boat, travelling through a dark passage where stalactites, stalagmites, and enormous chambers create an unforgettable underground landscape.A navigable underground riverLimestone karst formationsCave chambersStalactites and stalagmitesForest-to-sea ecosystemsMangrovesWildlife habitatBirdlifeCoastal landscapesConservation valueUNESCO World Heritage statusNew Seven Wonders of Nature recognitionThe site is widely recognised for its geological history and its role as a habitat for wildlife and a livelihood source for local tourism workers.Why the Underground River MattersProtecting a Global TreasureThe Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park protects an exceptional natural landscape. It includes a river flowing through caves before reaching the sea, framed by forested mountains and coastal habitats. The park supports wildlife and habitats that depend on responsible management."Every visitor has a role in reducing waste, respecting wildlife, and following capacity limits."The geological history of PalawanA rare cave-and-river ecosystemHabitat for wildlifeA livelihood source for local tourism workersA global symbol of Philippine natural heritageA reason to invest in environmental protectionA learning site for students and researchersA model for responsible nature tourismThe park's appeal should never outweigh its protection. Every visitor has a role in reducing waste, respecting wildlife, and following capacity limits.PPUR Day and Biodiversity AwarenessEngaging the Community and VisitorsPPUR Day is closely linked with environmental education. The Underground River’s recognition as a New Seven Wonders of Nature brought global visibility, but it also created a need for stronger visitor management and public awareness. Previous PPUR Day observances have included biodiversity-focused activities such as the Subaraw Biodiversity Festival.Environmental talksSchool programmesBiodiversity exhibitsCommunity clean-up activitiesConservation campaignsCultural performancesSustainable-tourism workshopsTree or mangrove-planting activitiesLocal-product displaysNature photography activitiesPublic information drivesGuided heritage discussionsThe official programme for Wednesday, 11 November 2026 has not yet been released. Visitors should follow Puerto Princesa City Government, park-management, and local-tourism announcements for confirmed events.Visiting the Underground River on 11 November 2026Planning Your AdventureA visit on PPUR Day may be memorable, but it also requires careful planning. November falls within a favourable travel period for many visitors, though rain and sea conditions can still affect schedules. The Underground River is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., except when extreme weather conditions require suspension.Hotel pickup in Puerto PrincesaAir-conditioned van transportSabang Wharf transferBoat crossing to the cave entranceUnderground-river paddle-boat tourAudio guide or local guideLunch stopOptional mangrove tourOptional zipline or other Sabang activityThe cave portion of a typical visit lasts about 45 minutes, though the full excursion from Puerto Princesa City often takes a full day.Permits and Visitor CapacityEnsuring a Safe and Sustainable ExperienceA permit is required to visit the Puerto Princesa Underground River. Daily entry is limited by the site’s official carrying capacity, which has been reported as 900 visitors per day. This limit exists to help protect the cave system and maintain a safer visitor experience.Permit processingPickup locationTransport inclusionsBoat-transfer arrangementsPark and environmental feesLunch inclusionCancellation termsWeather policyAccessibility informationMaximum group sizeReturn timing to Puerto Princesa CityBook well ahead, especially if travelling around 11 November 2026. Demand may increase because of PPUR Day-related activity, long-weekend travel patterns, or city events.How Much Does a Puerto Princesa Underground River Tour Cost?Understanding the CostsThere is no verified 2026 PPUR Day festival admission fee because the official event programme has not yet been released. Tour pricing varies by operator, group size, inclusions, and pickup location. A 2026 tour listing showed an environmental fee of ₱150 per person, with other permit and tour components varying by package.Underground River tour packageEnvironmental feePermit processingFood and drinksTips for drivers and guidesOptional Sabang activitiesTransfers outside standard pickup zonesSouvenirsTravel insuranceAccommodationNever rely on a third-party listing as the final authority. Confirm the full price and inclusions directly with an accredited operator before paying.Sabang: Gateway to the Underground RiverExploring Beyond the RiverThe gateway community for Underground River tours is Sabang, located west of Puerto Princesa City. It is where visitors usually transfer from road transport to boats heading for the cave entrance. Sabang is worth more than a quick stop. It has a quieter coastal character than Puerto Princesa City and offers access to beaches, mangrove areas, restaurants, and forest scenery.Sabang BeachMangrove paddle toursLocal seafood mealsForest sceneryWildlife watchingBeach walksCommunity-run tourism activitiesNature-based accommodationStay overnight in Sabang if you want a slower visit. This can reduce the pressure of an early-morning city departure and gives you flexibility if weather affects boat schedules.Puerto Princesa Before and After PPUR DayExploring the CityPuerto Princesa City is the starting point for many Underground River visitors. It has enough attractions to make a two- or three-night stay worthwhile. The Baywalk is ideal for an early-evening walk, waterfront food, and city views. It may also host PPUR Day-related public activities if the 2026 programme includes city-centre events.Palawan Heritage Center: A visit can give useful context on Palawan’s Indigenous peoples, local history, and the diverse communities that shape the province.Baker’s Hill: A relaxed family-oriented stop for snacks, gardens, and casual sightseeing.Iwahig Firefly Watching: A guided firefly tour can be a peaceful evening activity. Choose a responsible operator, avoid excessive lights, and do not disturb wildlife.Honda Bay: Island-hopping is a separate activity from the Underground River. Keep a buffer day between tours, especially in November, in case weather affects boat departures.Responsible Travel at the Underground RiverPreserving Nature's BeautyResponsible travel is essential in protected areas. Small actions help reduce stress on the park. The cave environment is sensitive. Stalactites and stalagmites take extremely long periods to form, and touching them can damage their surface.Bring a reusable water bottle.Keep food and wrappers secured.Never feed monkeys or other wildlife.Stay quiet near animals.Follow guide instructions inside the cave.Do not touch cave formations.Do not use flash photography.Keep phones on silent during the cave tour.Wear reef-safe sunscreen for separate water activities.Do not leave rubbish at Sabang Wharf or the cave entrance.Use licensed guides and boat operators.Respect weather-related cancellations.What to Pack for PPUR DayEssential Items for Your AdventurePrepare for a full day involving road travel, a sea crossing, and a cave visit. Avoid carrying large bags. Space can be limited on vans and boats.Lightweight, quick-drying clothesComfortable walking sandals or water shoesLight rain jacketDry bagWaterproof phone pouchReusable water bottleReef-safe sunscreenHatInsect repellentSmall towelCash in Philippine pesosPortable chargerPersonal medicationMotion-sickness remediesModest cover-up for community eventsCopy of your booking and identificationFrequently Asked QuestionsThe Things People Always Want to KnowWhen is Puerto Princesa Underground River Day 2026?Puerto Princesa Underground River Day is on Wednesday, 11 November 2026. The observance takes place annually on 11 November under Presidential Proclamation No. 816.What is PPUR Day?PPUR Day is Puerto Princesa Underground River Day. It honours the Puerto Princesa Underground River and commemorates its recognition as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature.Is 11 November 2026 a holiday in Puerto Princesa?The official 2026 special non-working-day proclamation has not yet been published. Puerto Princesa received a special non-working-day declaration for PPUR Day in 2025, but that does not automatically apply to 2026.Where is Puerto Princesa Underground River Day celebrated?Activities are associated with Puerto Princesa City, Sabang, and the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park in Palawan. The official 2026 venue list has not yet been announced.Do I need a permit for the Underground River?Yes. A permit is required, and the park limits daily visitors. Book early through an accredited operator or confirmed official channel.How long is the Underground River tour?The complete day trip from Puerto Princesa often lasts around six to eight hours, while the cave boat tour itself is typically about 45 minutes.How much does the Puerto Princesa Underground River tour cost?Pricing depends on the operator and inclusions. A 2026 listing cited a ₱150 environmental fee, while another package began at about US$60 per person. Confirm current prices, permits, and inclusions directly before booking.Verified Information at a GlanceEvent name: Puerto Princesa Underground River DayAlso known as: PPUR DayEvent category: Environmental awareness, biodiversity, heritage, and sustainable-tourism observanceConfirmed date: Wednesday, 11 November 2026Legal basis: Presidential Proclamation No. 816, issued on 3 July 2014Location: Puerto Princesa City, Sabang, and Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, PalawanPurpose: To honour the Puerto Princesa Underground River and its New Seven Wonders of Nature recognitionOfficial 2026 programme: Not yet announcedOfficial 2026 city holiday status: Not yet announcedPark visiting hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., subject to extreme-weather closuresPermit requirement: RequiredReported daily carrying capacity: 900 visitorsEnvironmental-fee reference: ₱150 per person in one 2026 tour listing, subject to changeFestival admission price: No confirmed 2026 PPUR Day fee publishedBest for: Nature lovers, families, students, eco-conscious travellers, photographers, and visitors interested in Palawan’s natural heritagePlan thoughtfully for Wednesday, 11 November 2026, reserve your Underground River permit early, and experience this extraordinary Palawan landmark with the respect it deserves, knowing that every careful visitor helps protect its forests, waters, and caves for the future.