Best time to travel to Philippines

Firefly Watching in Philippines

Discover natural Christmas trees in mangrove forests

Best time: December–January | available all year (Take note: in case of heavy rain in June–August guided tours get canceled)

Firefly Watching

The Philippines is one of the best places in the world to go firefly watching. It is home to rare synchronous fireflies that flash in sync with each other, creating incredible night scenes. In the Philippines, you can also observe a unique phenomenon of fireflies glowing on tree branches, turning a jungle into a Christmas wonderland. That unique natural scene occurs not every night and only in some mangrove forests. Even though firefly watching in the Philippines is possible all year round, its peak season falls in December and January. The least favorable time of year is from June to August when the guided firefly watching trips might be canceled due to heavy rains.

Fireflies on Bohol island

On Bohol island, you can choose between a firefly watching boat tour on Abatan and Loboc Rivers, a kayaking trip, or a dinner at a floating restaurant. Kayaking is the most nature-friendly option since motorboats damage the unique river eco-system and cause stress for fireflies. Tours can be arranged in Loay, Cortes, or Maribojoc.

A rare firefly species, Pteroptyx macdermotti, is endemic to area around The Abatan River in eastern Bohol, which makes it an ideal spot to encounter beautiful lightning bugs.

Fireflies on Palawan island

On Palawan Island, the rivers of Sicsican and Iwahig are famous for the abundance of fireflies, occupying mangroves along the banks. Every night, 45-minute watching tours on paddle boats depart from Puerto Princesa.

Fireflies near Donsol, Sorsogon

The Ogod River in Donsol, Sorsogon province, is one more great location with lush mangrove forests serving a perfect habitat for fireflies. Here you can fully enjoy the phenomenon of mangrove Christmas trees during a 4-mi (6-km) trip on the Ogod river that is usually not too busy with tourists.

Practical info

When is the peak season for firefly watching in the Philippines?

The synchronized flashing of rare fireflies can be observed during December and January in the Philippines. However, tours are provided year-round, except in the rainy season, which runs from June to August and may affect guided tours. Witnessing this natural phenomenon is a unique experience, and the country offers several destinations where visitors can marvel at the beautiful spectacle. Show more

What are some recommended locations to observe fireflies in their natural habitat?

Sicsican and Iwahig are two of the rivers in Palawan Island, where visitors can explore the mangroves and witness the fireflies' synchronized flashing. In Bohol Island, visitors can book a kayaking or boat tour on the Abatan and Loboc Rivers to see plenty of lightning bugs glowing on tree branches. As it may disturb the fireflies' natural habitat and stress them, visitors are recommended to opt for nature-friendly tours like kayaking. Show more

Which species of fireflies can be observed on Bohol Island?

The Pteroptyx macdermotti species of fireflies can be found around the Abatan River in Eastern Bohol. They emit yellow-green light and can only be seen during a specific time of the year. For those who would like to observe these rare species in their natural habitat, guided tours are available. The tours usually allow visitors enough time to experience the mesmerizing spectacle of these unique creatures. Show more

What is a nature-friendly way to observe fireflies on Bohol Island?

One of the best nature-friendly ways to witness the glowing fireflies on Bohol Island is through kayaking. With guided tours available, visitors can explore the rivers and mangroves where these creatures thrive. Unlike motorboats, kayaks do not harm the eco-system and cause no harm or stress to the fireflies. Kayaking through mangrove forests adds to the experience, making it an ideal way to appreciate nature's beauty. Show more

What is the duration of the firefly watching tour in Palawan Island?

One of the firefly watching tours on offer in Palawan Island usually lasts around 45 minutes. Visitors can ride a paddle boat, which offers enough time to explore the mangroves and see plenty of fireflies. The tours are usually available every night and depart from Puerto Princesa. Visitors are encouraged to bring insect repellent and dress appropriately for the evening breeze during the tour. Show more

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Last updated: by Olga Valchyshen