There’s more to Palawan than its famed white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. The province is also brimming with rare and wonderful creatures, many found nowhere else on Earth. Embarking on an one of our boat expeditions in Palawan —whether you’re sailing from Coron to El Nido or the other way around—offers a front-row seat to the unique wildlife of Palawan. Get ready to meet everything from flamboyant birds to elusive sea dwellers as you cruise along the breathtaking coastlines of Linapacan and Culion!
Vibrant Birds and Curious Creatures of the Land
Most visitors spot their first icon of Palawan’s wildlife right when they land in Puerto Princesa: the Palawan Peacock-Pheasant. Known for its eye-catching metallic plumage, this bird has become an emblem for the island’s capital city. If you’re lucky, you might glimpse one of these regal pheasants strutting around in the wild, but you can also find them in local conservation areas dedicated to preserving their dwindling habitat.
While exploring inland trails or small rural villages, travelers occasionally encounter the Palawan Bearcat (often called a Binturong). Despite its misleading name, it’s neither a bear nor a cat—it’s actually a civet relative with a distinctive (and surprisingly pleasant) popcorn-like scent. Equally intriguing is the Palawan Bearded Pig, recognized by the hairy “beard” decorating its snout. These chunky, tusked animals roam forest floors in search of fruits, roots, and the occasional grub.
Other rarities call Palawan home too. The shy Palawan Pangolin, scaly from head to tail, scurries under the cover of night in search of tasty ants. In forested zones, you could stumble across a diminutive Philippine Mouse-Deer, so small it practically looks like a toy version of its more familiar deer cousins. Then there’s the impressive Palawan Hornbill, whose vivid beak and loud calls announce its presence in the canopy. Plenty of other residents—like saltwater crocodiles, swift geckos, or elusive forest frogs—might appear if you keep your eyes peeled. You never know who might join you as you trek deeper into Palawan’s lush jungles.
Butterflies, Lizards, and Garden Treasures
Beyond the birds and mammals, Palawan harbors an astonishing variety of insects and reptiles. In many villages, you’ll see geckos clinging to walls, from tiny household “butiki” to larger, vibrantly colored species. Take a moment to spot a Palawan Monitor Lizard basking near rivers or scuttling along the undergrowth; they can grow to impressive sizes and play an essential role in the local ecosystem.
If you’re spending time in Puerto Princesa before or after your boat expedition, consider swinging by the Palawan Butterfly Ecological Garden and Tribal Village (check it out here)—a colorful haven that lets you admire many species of fluttering butterflies up close. You can also find displays of other fascinating insects and reptiles, sometimes including indigenous turtles, crocodiles, bearcats and geckos. It’s a perfect family-friendly pit stop and a great way to learn about the region’s biodiversity.
Life Beneath the Waves
Of course, no conversation about Palawan’s wildlife is complete without delving into its rich marine life. The surrounding seas host everything from graceful Dugongs (Sea Cows) to playful Dolphins cruising along in pods. Certain seasons bring sightings of gentle giants like Whale Sharks and sweeping Manta Rays gliding in slow arcs beneath you. If you’re traveling with us on a boat expedition between Coron and El Nido, be sure to keep an eye on the water’s surface whenever you’re sailing—sometimes these magnificent creatures appear unexpectedly, creating memories that last a lifetime.
Snorkelers and divers get to experience an entire underwater kingdom. The coral reefs around Linapacan and Culion, for instance, are among the most pristine in the world. Dip your mask below the waves and discover a kaleidoscope of Clownfish, Butterflyfish, Parrotfish, and Pufferfish zigzagging between corals. Keep an eye out for sea urchins, lionfish, and the occasional Reef Shark, which is generally harmless to humans. On calmer days, you might spot a Sea Turtle swimming lazily past, or even cross paths with a tiny Seahorse tucked among sea grasses. Just remember to respect the reefs—avoid stepping on corals and maintain a safe distance from creatures like the Box Jellyfish.
Adventures on Land and Sea with Tropical Paradise Travel & Tours
What’s the best way to experience this spectacular array of wildlife? An Ultimate Adventure Tour that takes you from Coron to El Nido (or the reverse route) is an excellent choice. You’ll spend your days hopping between remote islands, snorkeling in secret coves, and camping under star-filled skies. Linapacan’s pristine waters often rank among the clearest in the world, meaning you’ll have an unparalleled window into the local marine world. And Culion, once known mostly for its historic role as a leper colony, is now a hotspot for off-the-beaten-path exploration teeming with natural wonders.
During the journey, you might trade stories with fellow travelers about the turtles you spotted in the morning, or the monitor lizard that you saw while having your lunch on a deserted island. By the time you return to port, you’ll have racked up plenty of wildlife encounters—both above and below the ocean’s surface.
Planning Your Encounter with Palawan Wildlife
Although no wildlife sighting is ever guaranteed, an expedition with us lets you venture far off the beaten path—right into the unspoiled heart of Palawan’s nature. Instead of tromping through forests, you’ll be hopping between islands, snorkeling over vibrant coral reefs, and occasionally setting up camp under the stars.
Each day brings fresh wonders: gliding alongside sea turtles in calm, clear waters, or spotting colorful reef fish darting among corals. If you’re looking to fully immerse yourself in Palawan’s natural beauty while treading lightly on its ecosystems, our Ultimate Adventure Tour strikes the perfect balance. You’ll experience genuine off-grid exploration—sun-soaked afternoons at sea, island campsites framed by palm trees, and meaningful encounters with wildlife that thrive in these pristine waters!
Embark on Your Wild Adventure
Whether it’s the flamboyant plumage of the Palawan Peacock-Pheasant, the quirky silhouette of the Palawan Bearcat, or the thrill of spotting a whale shark on a sunrise cruise, Palawan Wildlife has a way of captivating the heart of every traveler. If you’re ready to see these incredible creatures up close, take the leap and book a boat expedition across these magical islands. For many visitors, the true highlight of Palawan isn’t just the postcard-worthy beaches—it’s the unfiltered, untamed life that flourishes in this tropical paradise. Prepare your camera and your curiosity, and dive headfirst into one of the most vibrant ecosystems in Southeast Asia. Your island adventure awaits!
