Puerto Princesa Jungle Firefly Watching Boat Tour & Dinner

Do you want to experience the stunning night views of Puerto Princesa on an unforgettable boat tour and dinner? In this guide, you will learn all the useful information you need to plan a jungle firefly watching tour around Puerto Princesa. Puerto Princesa is the capital of Palawan in the Philippines and it is known for its natural beauty and wildlife. Cruise along the Iwahig River and take in the breathtaking views of the Puerto Princesa jungle. After darkness falls, explore the riverbanks and witness fireflies lighting up the night. Or, gaze into the enchanting moonlit sky above you. To make your experience extra special, finish your journey with an authentic Filipino dinner beneath the stars. You can easily find a wide variety of quality tour operators offering wonderful Firefly Boat Tours around Puerto Princesa.

What to Expect

At the start of your tour, you’ll be picked up from your accommodation in Puerto Princesa and taken to the Iwahig River. Your guide will then help you board your traditional wooden boat and start the approximately 2-hour cruise along the river. As you cruise along, you can marvel at the stunning views of the jungle that surrounds you. Listen to your knowledgeable guide as they point out springs, common plants, and various wildlife living in the area such as lizards, monkeys and colorful birds. Excitement builds when night falls and you’ll be able to observe the tree-lined banks illuminate with the twinkling lights of thousands of fireflies for a truly magical experience. You’ll also get to see an amazing sight of small fish – known as “Dinamon” – which create bioluminescent trails in the dark waters of the river. The magnificence of these magnificent creatures is unlikely to be forgotten anytime soon. Finally, complete your tour with a delectable Filipino dinner served on board under a star-filled night sky. Savour traditional dishes such as seafood and chicken adobo, sizzling pork sisig, guinatan and its vegetable counterpart camote kinampay and other local delicacies – all perfectly complemented with a glass of wine or cold beer.

What’s Included

A typical Firefly Boat Tour package offered by tour operators in Puerto Princesa includes:

• Round-trip hotel transfers
• English-speaking guide
• Traditional wooden boat
• Firefly watching experience
• Dinner

Prices

Most Firefly Boat Tours offered in Puerto Princesa will cost around $25-$50 USD per person depending on what is included in the package; such as hotel transfers or snacks. It is worth noting that some tours may not have a set price but rather a “pay what you wish’ policy in order to help support local communities around Puerto Princesa.

Safety Considerations

The main safety concern with these boat tours is ensuring that visitors use recommended tour operators who have excellent trip reviews from other customers. There are many operators providing Firefly Boat Tours across the region and it is important to choose one with a good reputation. Similarly, if you are taken ill whilst on a tour, make sure to let your guide know immediately so they can take appropriate action to ensure your safety.

Conclusion

The Firefly Boat Tour & Dinner experience in Puerto Princesa is a unique way to explore this area at night and immerse yourself in nature’s beauty and mystery. Whether it’s viewing the sparkles of fireflies along the banks or watching bioluminescent Dinamon swimming around your boat, each tour promises a truly memorable experience. To maximize your time on this tour, make sure to carefully research the different options before you book and ensure you’re partnering with an experienced and reputable tour operator like GetYourGuide. Book today, so you can explore the stunning nature of Puerto Princesa with ease under a sapphire night sky!

An Insider’s Guide to Puerto Princesa

If you’re visiting Puerto Princesa, chances are you’re already planning to see its most popular attraction, the Underground River. While it’s a must-visit spot in the city, there are several hidden gems that only locals know about. Here’s an insider’s guide to exploring Puerto Princesa beyond the usual tourist spots.

Local Attractions – Discovering Hidden Gems

Take a break from the usual tourist crowds and explore the city’s hidden gems. Discover the beautiful Maoyon River and its mangrove forests. You can take a paddleboat tour, where you’ll see different kinds of mangroves, monkeys, snakes and various species of birds. Another hidden spot is the Iwahig River Firefly Watching Tour, where you’ll get an opportunity to see thousands of glowing fireflies lighting the night skies. You can also visit the Palawan Heritage Center, where you can learn about the history and culture of Palawan, from its indigenous people to modern-day influences.

Dining Spots – Savoring Local Cuisine

Puerto Princesa is known for its excellent seafood cuisine. While you’re dining, you should try out their popular Chamorro dishes, Kinilaw, and crispy fried squid. Don’t forget to visit local eateries to enjoy their dishes like the Sinigang na Baboy, Ginataang Sitaw at Kalabasa, and Chicken Adobo. One of the most famous local desserts is Binungey, made from sticky rice and coconut milk wrapped in a banana leaf.

For a unique dining experience, head to the Baker’s Hill. You’ll see colorful gardens and exciting structures, and it is known for its delicious freshly baked goods. Baker’s Hill is also home to various other restaurants, including stalls selling street food.

Cultural Experiences – Discovering Traditions and Art

Puerto Princesa has a unique cultural heritage with influences from its indigenous communities. One of the must-see places is the Palawan Museum. It is home to the artefacts and history of the city and its surrounding areas. There are plenty of art galleries in the city where traditional and contemporary artworks are displayed. If you’re interested in experiencing the local festivals, you can plan your trip around the colorful “Pista ng Karagatan” and “Pista Y Ang Kagueban,” celebrated annually.

Local History – Fascinating Stories from the Past

Puerto Princesa has a fascinating history, with several stories and events worth exploring. One such story is the legend of the Tabon Caves, which was the first human-inhabited place in Southeast Asia. The city is also known for its role during World War II as a last stronghold of American and Filipino defenders.

Another tribute to the past is the Plaza Cuartel. It was once a military post during the Spanish and American periods and became a Japanese garrison during WWII. Visitors can go on a tour of the site, where they can see the ruins of the old barracks, cells, and various other historical items.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions – Unforgettable Experiences

For an unforgettable experience, you may want to try out the Maoyon River paddleboarding adventure. You can also book a personalized photo stop tour around the city for your Instagram or Facebook feeds. A unique experience would be getting close to the local Palawan tribes. You can go to the “Palaw’an Country” where you can experience a day of normal village life, learn how to make handicrafts and eat local cuisine.

Puerto Princesa has much more to offer beyond its tropical paradise ambiance. From hidden gems to fascinating history and traditions, there’s something for every type of traveler. Explore the city beyond your usual tourist spots and create unforgettable memories.