CALAUIT ISLAND SAFARI, PHILIPPINES

CALAUIT ISLAND SAFARI

Calauit Island is a very special and unique island. It is close to the northern tip of Busuanga Island. However, much smaller than Busuanga, Calauit is the home to African and local wildlife. The wildlife Park started back in the late 70s by then President Marcos continues to impress wildlife lovers and environmentally friendly folk. 

Giraffes have a life span of 25 to 27 years, so none of the original African giraffes are here. All have been born in the park and well looked after by the staff.  Florante has been looking after the animals for the past 27 years.

“The animals live in a natural habitat,” said Florante. “They are wild and we need to take precautions for your safety and treat them as such, thus feeding is done from behind the fence”.

Visitors travel in a jeepney through vast areas of the park. Ricky is a good driver in this rough terrain and always cautious to avoid collision with freely running animals. The only animals in an enclosure are crocodiles, pythons and wild boar, for obvious reasons. Giraffes and zebras are timid and keep their distance. Giraffes are attracted to the leaves of Iniam Tree, especially at breakfast time. The trees are nicely trimmed not leaving a gardener much to do.

To experience the closeness with the animals is a great feeling. The safari is quite unique allowing for a close contact with the animals. This is how it differs from an African safari, where the distance requires binoculars to view the animals. Here in Calauit Wildlife Park one can touch a giraffe while she is busy having her breakfast. The skin is smooth and delicate, the experience magic. It is also great to see local monkeys, bear cat, porcupine cohabiting in the park.


Both Florante and Ricky love the animals. They share the information and tell tales. The forest monkeys fight mangrove monkeys, they tell us. Crocodiles dig wholes in the mud and disappear; we are lucky to see one heading for its hiding whole. The time spent on safari is a valuable and wonderful experience.