Palawan Mangrove Bat Exodus — Iwahig River
About this tour
As dusk settles over Puerto Princesa, the mangroves of the Iwahig River come alive in one of nature's most magical light shows. This early-evening tour takes you by paddle boat along the calm, mangrove-lined river to witness thousands of fireflies twinkling in the trees, often described as Christmas trees glowing in the dark, alongside the nightly stirring of the riverine wildlife.
You glide silently beneath a canopy of mangroves and a star-filled sky, your guide pointing out the bioluminescent fireflies, the plankton sparkling in the water and the calls of the forest at night. The Iwahig Eco Park is the original firefly-watching site in Puerto Princesa, run by the local community, and the boat ride lasts around 45 minutes in serene darkness broken only by countless tiny lights.
Peaceful, family-friendly and quietly unforgettable, this is one of Palawan's most underrated experiences. It pairs beautifully with the city's better-known day tours and offers a completely different, after-dark side of Puerto Princesa's rich natural environment.
Highlights
- ✓Paddle-boat cruise along the mangrove-lined Iwahig River at dusk
- ✓Watch thousands of fireflies illuminate the mangrove trees
- ✓See bioluminescent plankton sparkle in the dark water
- ✓Glide beneath a star-filled sky with a community-trained guide
- ✓Visit the original firefly-watching site in Puerto Princesa
What's included
- ✓Paddle-boat firefly river cruise
- ✓Local guide and boatman
- ✓Environmental and eco-park fees
- ✓Hotel transfers where offered
About the area
Puerto Princesa is the capital of Palawan and gateway to the island's natural wonders, including the UNESCO-listed Underground River. Just outside the city, the Iwahig River winds through mangrove forest that comes alive after dark with fireflies, making it the heart of the area's celebrated firefly-watching tours and a tranquil contrast to Palawan's busy day excursions.
Frequently asked questions
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