Introduction
Puerto Princesa City, the capital of Palawan, is often referred to as the “Eco-Tourism Capital of the Philippines.” Its reputation is not only based on its natural beauty but also on its commitment to sustainable tourism practices. From lush forests and diverse wildlife to vibrant coral reefs and community-based initiatives, Puerto Princesa offers travelers opportunities to experience nature responsibly while contributing to conservation and local livelihoods.
Principles of Ecotourism
Ecotourism in Puerto Princesa is guided by three principles: conservation of natural resources, education for both locals and visitors, and equitable sharing of benefits with host communities. This approach ensures that economic growth from tourism does not come at the expense of environmental degradation. Instead, it strengthens stewardship of ecosystems while empowering local communities, including Indigenous peoples, fisherfolk, and farmers.
Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center
Formerly known as the Crocodile Farm and Nature Park, the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center is dedicated to conserving two endangered species: the saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) and the Philippine freshwater crocodile (Crocodylus mindorensis), which is endemic to the country. The center combines scientific breeding programs with educational tours that raise awareness about crocodile conservation.
Beyond crocodiles, the Nature Park shelters a range of Palawan’s native wildlife. Visitors may encounter the elusive Palawan bearcat, the talkative Palawan mynah, the colorful Nicobar pigeon, and the dazzling Palawan peacock-pheasant. The center serves as both a rescue facility and an outdoor classroom for ecotourists.
Palawan Butterfly Garden
The Palawan Butterfly Garden offers a tranquil setting where visitors can appreciate the colorful and delicate species of butterflies native to Palawan. Many of these species closely resemble those found in Malaysia and other Southeast Asian nations, reflecting Palawan’s ecological ties to the broader region.
Beyond showcasing butterflies, the garden also serves as a breeding ground and conservation site, educating guests about the importance of pollinators in maintaining forest and agricultural health. Some areas of the garden highlight Indigenous Palawan culture, blending ecological and cultural ecotourism in one visit.
Puerto Princesa Underground River National Park
No discussion of Puerto Princesa ecotourism is complete without the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. The underground river flows for more than eight kilometers beneath limestone karst formations, creating spectacular chambers and stalactite formations.
Strict visitor regulations, such as limiting daily entry permits, are enforced to protect the fragile cave ecosystem. Local guides, many of whom come from nearby communities, provide environmental education as they lead tourists through this natural wonder.
Honda Bay and Island Hopping
Located on the eastern coast of Puerto Princesa, Honda Bay is a popular destination for island-hopping tours. Small islands such as Starfish Island, Luli Island, and Cowrie Island feature white-sand beaches, mangroves, and shallow reefs ideal for snorkeling.
Honda Bay serves as an example of ecotourism balancing recreation with conservation. Guides emphasize proper waste disposal, reef protection, and the importance of sustainable fisheries to ensure that both visitors and local communities benefit from this marine environment.
Dolphin Watching in Puerto Princesa Bay
Puerto Princesa Bay is home to pods of spinner dolphins, locally known as “lumba-lumba.” Early morning boat tours allow visitors to witness these dolphins leap, spin, and play in the open waters. The experience highlights the richness of Puerto Princesa’s marine environment while fostering respect for marine mammals.
Operators are encouraged to follow responsible wildlife viewing guidelines, such as maintaining a safe distance and avoiding motor noise disturbances, to minimize stress on the animals.
Diving and Marine Exploration
The waters around Puerto Princesa are part of the Coral Triangle, one of the most biodiverse marine regions in the world. Diving and snorkeling tours reveal colorful coral gardens, reef fish, sea turtles, and occasionally larger pelagic species. Popular dive sites include spots around Arrecife Island and parts of Honda Bay.
Conservation organizations partner with dive operators to promote reef-safe practices, such as prohibiting anchoring on coral reefs and discouraging visitors from touching marine life.
Firefly Watching Tours
At night, visitors can join firefly watching tours along mangrove-lined rivers such as the Iwahig and Sicsican Rivers. These tours showcase the magical sight of fireflies illuminating the trees, synchronized with the natural rhythms of the river ecosystem.
The experience is not just about visual wonder; it highlights the role of mangroves as nurseries for fish, buffers against storm surges, and habitats for countless species. Local communities manage many of these tours, ensuring that revenues directly support conservation and livelihood programs.
Iwahig River and Community-Based Ecotourism
The Iwahig River is central to Puerto Princesa’s community-based ecotourism. Known for its firefly tours, it is also home to mangroves and migratory bird species. The river’s surrounding areas include the historic Iwahig Penal Farm, which has been repurposed in part as an eco-park.
Community involvement ensures that tourism benefits are widely distributed. Local guides, boat operators, and vendors all participate in providing services, creating a model for sustainable tourism that directly supports residents.
Indigenous Communities and Cultural Ecotourism
Ecotourism in Puerto Princesa also integrates the traditions and knowledge of Indigenous groups such as the Tagbanua. These communities maintain ancestral domains that overlap with forest and coastal ecosystems. Cultural tours and handicraft markets allow visitors to appreciate both the natural and cultural heritage of Palawan.
By participating in community-based tourism, travelers contribute to the preservation of Indigenous practices and help strengthen land and resource rights for these communities.
Sustainability and Environmental Challenges
While Puerto Princesa is often celebrated for its “clean and green” image, ecotourism faces ongoing challenges. These include waste management, balancing visitor numbers with ecosystem limits, and preventing habitat degradation from unsustainable activities. The city government, NGOs, and local communities continuously work to strengthen regulations and promote eco-friendly infrastructure.
Initiatives such as banning single-use plastics, expanding marine protected areas, and conducting regular environmental education campaigns illustrate Puerto Princesa’s dedication to sustainable development. Long-term success will depend on maintaining these commitments as visitor numbers grow.
Puerto Princesa Eco-Tourism
Ecotourism in Puerto Princesa is more than a leisure activity; it is a model of how tourism can protect biodiversity, empower communities, and educate visitors. From the conservation of crocodiles and butterflies to the majesty of the Underground River, from dolphin watching to firefly tours, every attraction underscores the city’s commitment to harmony between humans and nature.
By choosing Puerto Princesa, travelers not only witness extraordinary natural beauty but also contribute to the preservation of one of the Philippines’ last ecological frontiers. The city’s ecotourism journey demonstrates that sustainable practices can secure both livelihoods and landscapes for generations to come.
