Underground River Experience

Whenever one goes to Palawan it is a must that the Underground River is in the itinerary. I was excited when I arrived on beach shore going to this world famous tourist destination. So we trekked the way going to the cave entrance. On our way, we were amazed by the forest and met wild friends. We were walking slowly so that we can appreciate the landscape. While walking friend was carrying a plastic bag containing his stuff then suddenly a monkey snatched his bag. The guide told us that the monkey thinks that he is carrying food. Fortunately the contents of his plastic bags are not important. So a precaution do not carry plastic bag on your way to the entrance.

When we got to the entrance we were given life vests and hard hats for protection then all seven of us boarded the boat plus one boatman/tour guide. When the boatman started rowing I asked him what is the depth of the river. He said that it is 30 feet, having heard that my excitement now shifted to fear. Because I am not a swimmer and I imagined wild water creatures lurking in the river. I was thinking to back-out. Anyways, when we got inside the cave it was really dark. Our only source of light is the one they have on the boat (the light is like a small spot light). So going further even if I was really nervous I was glad that I did not chickened out otherwise I’ll miss this breathtaking experience.

Within the cave you’ll see the amazing natural rock formations. These were formed millions of years and will only be altered after another million years. Inside I saw rocks shaped as dinosaur, human, vegetables, horses, angels, Virgin Mary, and there are also rocks that formed the nativity scene. I also have seen rock textures naturally formed like designs with uniform patterns and glittering rocks as if it was sprinkled with diamond dusts. I tried to capture on camera what is inside but it was not possible using a simple digital camera. I dipped my foot and hand while inside the cave it was cold and sends shivers in my spine because of the imaginary creatures that might suddenly pull me into the deep dark water. Scary.

I would also like to give credits to the boatman/tour guide. Who showed us around the cave and made our trip entertaining because of his good sense of humor.