Mangroves are important for the environment, among other things, as a shelter for fish and firefly larvae, to protect against flooding, and for absorbing carbon. The Abatan River is home to 32 of the 70 mangrove species known worldwide, as such one of the most diversely healthy river ecosystems in Bohol.

Although you can rent a motorboat and wander around these mangroves, waves created by the motorboats erode the soil underneath the mangrove trees, disrupting the ecosystem here, especially where the larva of fireflies are hiding.

Kayakasia Philippines offers eco-friendly kayak tours on the Abatan River, and the combined tour of mangrove tunnels and firefly is outright spectacular. Kayakasia’s tours might seem a bit pricey as opposed to motorboat tours, but they only hire local guides, invest a portion of profits into conservation, and even sponsor the school and college education of some of their guides.

The service price of the kayaking and firefly tour combo is 3,950php/adult and 3,500php/child (3-12 years old). The price of this combo includes 2-way transport from accommodation in Panglao Island or Tagbilaran City, kayak gear & equipment, kayak lessons & safety instructions, guided kayak tour with professional kayak guide, river usage fees/community fees, food & drinks in between & after the kayaking and access to lockers, wash room and changing room.

The tour usually starts at 2:30 pm, and lasts for 6 hours including pick up and drop off time.

According to earthmaho.com, kayakasiaphilippines.wordpress.com, mumonthemove.com