Experience Palawan and Sagada in One Place

In 2005, I watched in awe as the guide shone his spotlight on the enormous cathedrals and told us every story of each of the stalactite and stalagmite formations in Palawan’s subterranean river which recently made it to the short list of the world’s new wonders of nature. Two years later I would be thrilled by the adventure in Sumaging Cave in Sagada as we scrambled and navigated through its many chambers.

This year, I experienced both of them in one place. 

This lovely waterfall substitutes Sabang beach as a prelude to the underground river

The inexperienced eye would say this is Palawan.

Explore the cave's immense chambers but instead of being on a boat, you get the thrill of swimming and wading through the underground river.

Without a powerful flash, this would be just total darkness and you wouldn't see how clear the water is.

the river could sometimes get dark and deep

The other exit is the icing on the cake.

The exit leads to another barrio.

Locals kids enjoying their own version summer chill! 

at the other end

The stalactite and stalagmite formations may not be that awesome but they're still camera-worthy.

Back at the entrance. Next time, I'll be sure to take my time to enjoy this natural swimming pool.

I'm so fortunate to have been able to enjoy the place before it gets too popular and expensive!