Calauit Safari Park, located in the northwestern part of Busuanga Island in Coron, Palawan, is one of the most extraordinary destinations in the Philippines. Established in 1976 as part of a conservation project initiated by President Ferdinand Marcos, the park was designed to provide a sanctuary for endangered African animals. Today, Calauit Safari Park is not only a home for giraffes, zebras, and antelopes, but also a vital conservation area for native Philippine species. For nature lovers, animal enthusiasts, and eco-tourists, visiting Calauit offers a rare and unforgettable opportunity to experience a safari adventure without leaving Southeast Asia.
Calauit Safari Park, located in the northwestern part of Busuanga Island in Coron, Palawan, is one of the most extraordinary destinations in the Philippines. Established in 1976 as part of a conservation project initiated by President Ferdinand Marcos, the park was designed to provide a sanctuary for endangered African animals. Today, Calauit Safari Park is not only a home for giraffes, zebras, and antelopes, but also a vital conservation area for native Philippine species. For nature lovers, animal enthusiasts, and eco-tourists, visiting Calauit offers a rare and unforgettable opportunity to experience a safari adventure without leaving Southeast Asia.
Wildlife and Natural Features
Calauit Safari Park spans approximately 3,700 hectares of rolling hills, grasslands, and forests. Initially populated with animals from Kenya, including giraffes, zebras, elands, impalas, and waterbucks, the park has successfully bred many of these species. Today, visitors can still see herds of giraffes and zebras roaming freely in their semi-wild habitat.
In addition to its African inhabitants, Calauit has become a sanctuary for endemic and endangered Philippine species, such as the Calamian deer, Palawan bearcat, Philippine crocodile, and various bird species. The park’s landscape of grassy savannahs, mangroves, and coastal areas also makes it a vital ecosystem supporting a wide range of plant and animal life.
Activities
- Safari Tours: Ride an open-air vehicle or take a guided walking tour through the park to observe animals up close, feed giraffes, and photograph zebras grazing freely.
- Giraffe Feeding: One of the park’s highlights is the opportunity to hand-feed giraffes—a magical and personal wildlife encounter.
- Nature Walks: Explore Calauit’s diverse landscapes by walking through its coastal forests and mangroves, discovering native flora and fauna along the way.
- Educational Tours: Learn about wildlife conservation efforts, the history of the park, and ongoing programs to protect endangered species in the Philippines.
- Photography: The park offers unique safari-style photo opportunities unlike anywhere else in the country.
Location and Accessibility
Calauit Safari Park is located on Calauit Island, just off the northwestern coast of Busuanga Island in Palawan (coordinates: 12.276293648834908, 119.88327364123806).
How to Get There:
- By Air: Fly to Francisco B. Reyes Airport (Busuanga Airport) from Manila or Cebu.
- By Land and Sea: From the airport, it’s about a 1.5 to 2-hour van ride to the port of Busuanga town, followed by a short boat ride (approximately 10–15 minutes) to Calauit Island.
Alternatively, many tour operators in Coron Town offer full-day Calauit Safari tours that include land transfers, boat rides, and guided tours.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Calauit Safari Park is during the dry season, from November to May, when the weather is sunny, the trails are dry, and wildlife is more active and easier to spot. Early morning visits are recommended for cooler temperatures and more active animal behavior.
Practical Information
- Entry Fee: Entrance fees vary, with additional charges for guided tours and vehicle rentals. Expect around PHP 300–400 for adults, with discounts for children and seniors.
- Tour Packages: Full-day tours from Coron typically range from PHP 1,500–2,500 per person, often including visits to nearby attractions such as Black Island or North Cay.
- Facilities: Basic facilities are available at the park, including a visitor center, restrooms, and picnic areas. However, there are limited food options, so bringing your own snacks and water is advisable.
- Nearby Accommodations: Most visitors stay in Coron Town, where a wide range of accommodations from budget hostels to luxury resorts are available.
Visitor Tips
- Advance Booking: If traveling independently, arrange transportation and park entry ahead of time, as boat transfers and local transport options can be limited.
- Eco-Friendly Practices: Respect the animals by keeping noise to a minimum, avoiding flash photography, and not feeding animals outside of guided interactions.
- What to Bring: Sunscreen, hats, water, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes are essential for a pleasant safari experience.
- Respect Wildlife: Always maintain a respectful distance from animals, follow the guide's instructions, and avoid touching or disturbing the wildlife unnecessarily.
Visiting Calauit Safari Park offers a rare blend of African safari adventure and Philippine wildlife conservation. It's a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique and educational eco-tourism experience in Palawan.
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