01
Registration Desk
15 minutesRegistration
This is where visitors pay environmental fees and arrange their boats. You will also meet your local river guide here.
Explore
Abatan River Community Center
The community center serves as the primary starting point for all firefly tours on the Abatan River.
Located in Cortes, this facility is where you register, meet your guide, and board your boat. It takes about 15 minutes to reach the center from Tagbilaran City by van or taxi.
Before heading onto the water, you will finalize your booking, prepare your gear, and experience a brief local ritual.
02
Palina Ritual Area
5 minutesSmoke ritual
Experience a cultural welcome before your tour begins. A local resident uses smoke from a clay pot to ward off bad spirits. This local tradition also helps repel a few mosquitoes near the water.
03
Docking Pier
10 minutesBoarding area
Walk down the wooden boardwalk to board the motorized bandong boats or launch your kayak. Guides provide a safety briefing at this location. Ensure your life jacket is properly fitted before getting on the water.
