On the romantic tropical island of Palawan in the far western reaches of the Philippines there is a river that is navigable for more than five miles��� underground.

Azure waters, crystal clear and inviting, mark the entrance to the world���s second longest subterranean watercourse. An few hours away from the city of Puerto Princesa and a short boat ride from the Sheridan Resort, Sabang, yet a step back in time to an age when the earth was still young.

Limestone karst mountains surround the mouth of the river cave as birds swoop and flutter above your boat.

There are 252 species of birds known to occur on Palawan, one hundred and sixty five species of birds have

been recorded in the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park including Blue-naped Parrots, Hill

Mynas, Palawan Hornbills and the majestic White Breasted Sea Eagle.

Along the beach shoreline near the river cave, long tailed macaques come to feed at low tide. The only primate

found in the area, other mammals seen include bearcats, badgers, porcupines and bearded pigs. In the waters

surrounding the underground river, sea cows (Dugong) and Hawksbill turtles can often be seen basking on the

surface.

The subterranean river itself cuts through a cave strewn with stalactites, stalagmites, columns and all manner

of cave formations. Entertaining and well informed local guides propel the canoes that are safe as well as

ecologically sound and ideal for the silent appreciation of the cave. Visitors can enjoy and appreciate without

worrying about causing harm to this wonder of the natural world.