Nature Up Close: Discover Lio Wetlands and Its Birdwatching Wonders

IMS HII • September 8, 2025

Hidden just minutes from Charlie's El Nido lies a sanctuary where nature reveals its quieter side—the Lio Wetlands, where emerald waters wind through ancient mangroves and rare birds dance across the sky. This isn't your typical El Nido postcard scene of limestone cliffs and turquoise lagoons. It's something more intimate, where each paddle stroke through the mangroves brings you closer to the wild heart of Palawan.


For nature enthusiasts and families seeking experiences beyond island hopping, the Lio Wetlands offers a different kind of magic. Here, the Palawan Hornbill calls from towering trees, Philippine Ducks glide across mirror-still waters, and the entire ecosystem pulses with life waiting to be discovered.

Rocky islands with lush green vegetation, turquoise water, and blue sky.

A Living Classroom: The Lio Wetlands Ecosystem

The Lio Wetlands represents one of Palawan's most precious ecosystems—a 330-meter trail winding through a thriving mangrove forest, part of Ayala Land's Carbon Forest initiative. This protected sanctuary serves as a crucial stopover for migratory birds and permanent home to endemic species that make Palawan one of the Philippines' biodiversity hotspots.

Walking the wetlands trail feels like stepping into a nature documentary. Dense mangrove canopy filters sunlight into dancing patterns on the water below, while roots create natural nurseries for fish and crustaceans. Unlike remote bird sanctuaries requiring extensive travel, the Lio Wetlands sits conveniently within the Lio Tourism Estate, making it an easy addition to your El Nido itinerary while staying at Charlie's.

Wooden sign with directions to Lio Beach, Lio Pier, shops, resorts, and Kalyë Artisano.

Birdwatching Paradise: Species You'll Encounter

The Lio Wetlands transforms birdwatching from passive activity into engaging treasure hunt. Among the stars is the majestic Palawan Hornbill, with its distinctive casque and powerful wings creating whooshing sounds overhead. The Philippine Duck, endemic to our islands, glides gracefully across calm waters, especially during early morning hours. Keep binoculars ready for kingfishers diving for breakfast, their brilliant blue plumage flashing like sapphires against the green backdrop.


For the best experience, dress in earth-toned clothing and apply insect repellent before your adventure. The Activity Hut at Lio Beach provides information about guided birdwatching tours, where local experts share knowledge about bird behavior, calls, and prime spotting locations. During migration season, the wetlands become even more exciting as international visitors join local residents, creating a dynamic cast of characters.

Birdwatching Paradise: Species You'll Encounter

The Lio Wetlands transforms birdwatching from passive activity into engaging treasure hunt. Among the stars is the majestic Palawan Hornbill, with its distinctive casque and powerful wings creating whooshing sounds overhead. The Philippine Duck, endemic to our islands, glides gracefully across calm waters, especially during early morning hours. Keep binoculars ready for kingfishers diving for breakfast, their brilliant blue plumage flashing like sapphires against the green backdrop.


For the best experience, dress in earth-toned clothing and apply insect repellent before your adventure. The Activity Hut at Lio Beach provides information about guided birdwatching tours, where local experts share knowledge about bird behavior, calls, and prime spotting locations. During migration season, the wetlands become even more exciting as international visitors join local residents, creating a dynamic cast of characters.

Wooden sign with directions to Lio Beach, Lio Pier, shops, resorts, and Kalyë Artisano.
Aerial view of turquoise water with boats in a cove, surrounded by lush green cliffs and rocky shorelines.

Beyond Birds: Activities in the Wetlands

While birdwatching might be the headline act, the Lio Wetlands offers a full program of nature-based activities. Kayaking through mangroves provides an intimate perspective of this water world, paddling silently between twisted roots and under natural archways. The calm waters make it perfect for beginners and families, with kayak rentals available at Lio Beach Activity Hut.


The Eco-Forest Trail offers another dimension to your wetlands experience, taking you deeper into the forest where monitor lizards bask in sunny clearings and colorful butterflies feed on wildflowers. For structured experiences, guided nature tours combine kayaking, walking, and birdwatching while your guide shares insights about the ecosystem's delicate balance and conservation efforts.

Charlie's El Nido: Your Gateway to Nature

Charlie's El Nido stands as the perfect base for your wetlands adventure, combining premier resort comfort with easy access to these natural wonders. Located just 15-20 minutes from Lio Airport and offering complimentary shuttle service to Lio Beach—gateway to the wetlands—this hotel El Nido eliminates logistics that often complicate nature experiences. After morning birdwatching, return to refresh in the swimming pool with stunning Cadlao Island views.


The resort's tranquil atmosphere extends your nature immersion beyond the wetlands. Wake up to bird songs from your private balcony, practice sunrise yoga in the dedicated studio, or relax in the lobby lounge browsing wildlife photos. As one of the best resorts in El Nido Palawan, Charlie's understands that memorable nature experiences combine adventure with comfort, ensuring you're well-rested for each day's discoveries.

Tips for Your Wetlands Adventure

Timing makes all the difference in your wetlands experience. Early mornings offer the best birdwatching when birds are most active, while late afternoons provide beautiful lighting for photography. Pack binoculars, camera with zoom lens, and quick-dry clothing in muted colors. Water-resistant footwear is recommended for trails.



Remember the wetlands is a living ecosystem deserving respect. Stay on designated trails, keep noise minimal, and never disturb wildlife. Guided tours are highly recommended for first-timers, as local guides enhance wildlife spotting success while sharing valuable conservation insights about Palawan's ecology.

Your Nature Story Begins Here

The Lio Wetlands offers something increasingly rare—a chance to slow down and tune into nature's rhythms. It's where families create memories spotting their first hornbill, photographers capture perfect kingfisher dives, and anyone finds peace paddling through mangrove tunnels. This isn't just another item on your what to do in El Nido list; it's an experience connecting you to Palawan's wild soul.


Immerse yourself in nature. Book your stay at Charlie's El Nido through the official website and let us be your gateway to the Lio Wetlands and beyond. With complimentary shuttle service, expert tour arrangements, and comfortable accommodations waiting at day's end, your nature adventure in one of the Philippines' most biodiverse regions starts here.