Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center

In the lush outskirts of Puerto Princesa, the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center (formerly the Crocodile Farm) offers an unexpectedly intimate encounter with the island’s most iconic reptiles and rescued wildlife. This government-run facility balances conservation education with a dash of adrenaline, letting you walk among basking crocodiles, feed giant tortoises, and learn about Palawan’s unique ecosystems. It’s a rewarding, low-cost stop that adds depth to any Palawan itinerary, especially for families or wildlife enthusiasts.

Highlights & What to See

• Crocodile Enclosures – Get up close with both saltwater and freshwater crocodiles, from hatchlings to massive adults. The feeding sessions (usually at 10am and 3pm) are a thrilling spectacle.
• Rescued Wildlife – Beyond crocs, the center rehabilitates endemic species like the Palawan bearcat (binturong), porcupines, and various birds. Many are released back into the wild.
• Turtle Sanctuary – A small but important facility for rescued marine turtles, with educational displays on their conservation status.
• Nature Trail – A short boardwalk through mangroves and forest offers a glimpse of Palawan’s native flora and the chance to spot monitor lizards.
• Feeding & Photo Ops – You can hold a baby crocodile (under supervision) or feed the giant tortoises – a hit with kids.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for 1.5–2 hours, enough to see the enclosures, watch a feeding, and stroll the nature trail. The center is often combined with the nearby Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm or a half-day city tour of Puerto Princesa. Mornings are cooler and less crowded, making the experience more pleasant.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New7Wonders of Nature, about 1.5 hours north of the center.
• Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm – A unique open prison where inmates craft souvenirs; it’s just a 20-minute drive away.
• Honda Bay – Famous for island-hopping and snorkeling at Starfish Island, Luli Island, and Cowrie Island, roughly 30 minutes east.
• Puerto Princesa City Proper – The city’s baywalk, public market (for local snacks), and the Palawan Museum are all within easy reach.

Please check official sources for current details.