Encounter Giraffes in 2024: A Visit to Calauit Wildlife Sanctuary

Calauit Wildlife Sanctuary: A Unique Encounter in the Philippines

Nestled within the stunning island of Coron, Palawan, Calauit Wildlife Sanctuary offers a truly unique experience: the chance to encounter giraffes in the Philippines. This protected area is home to a diverse range of exotic animals, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.

Imagine stepping off a boat onto a tropical island, expecting palm trees and coves, then spotting a giraffe strolling along the beach! That’s the wild magic of Calauit Wildlife Sanctuary, a Filipino-style safari experience near Coron where African animals found an unexpected home. If you want an adventure that’ll blow your friends’ minds, this place is it.

Established in 1975, Calauit Wildlife Sanctuary is a 3,700-hectare reserve that has been successfully reintroducing various animal species to the island. Giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and other exotic animals roam freely within the sanctuary, creating a surreal and unforgettable experience for visitors.

Here’s what makes Calauit Wildlife Sanctuary so unique:

• Where is it? It’s located on Calauit Island, part of the Palawan island group in the Philippines – think tropical paradise meets African wildlife!
• Back in Time: Did you know Calauit wasn’t always about animals? Back in the 1970s, the Philippine government created it to give a safe home to endangered animals from Africa – giraffes, zebras, and more – during a time of political unrest in Kenya. Talk about global teamwork for conservation!
• African Animals, Filipino Flavor: These animals thrived in their new island home, creating a unique blend of savanna vibes and tropical scenery.
• Protecting the Locals Too: Calauit isn’t just about the African newcomers. They also protect amazing species native to Palawan, like the Calamian deer and the stunning Palawan peacock-pheasant.

Get ready to be amazed! Here’s a closer look at some of the sanctuary’s residents:

• Giraffes Everywhere! They’re the iconic Calauit animal, and with over a hundred of them roaming around, you’ll get those epic “giraffe with a beach backdrop” photos.
• Zebra Crossing: Those black and white stripes look surprisingly at home next to palm trees!
• Calamian Deer Comeback: Keep an eye out for this small, unique deer. Its population was dwindling, but thanks to Calauit Wildlife Sanctuary, they’re making a strong comeback!
• Bearcat Encounter: If you’re lucky, you might spot a Palawan bearcat. It looks like a mix between a bear and a cat, with long fur and a fluffy tail!
• Porcupine Power: Don’t mess with these prickly critters! They may look cute, but those quills are no joke.
• Peacock-Pheasant Perfection: This dazzling bird is a Palawan specialty, with iridescent feathers and a fancy tail.

• Guided Tours: The easiest way to experience Calauit is on a safari tour from Coron. They handle everything from permits to expert guides.
• Jeepney Fun: Most tours use open-air jeepneys to get around the island – bumpy, but part of the adventure!
• Photo Ops Galore: Get those cameras charged! Between the animals, the views, and maybe even a selfie with a zebra in the background… you’ll need the space.
• Respect the Rules: The sanctuary is there to protect the animals. Listen to your guide, stay safe, and don’t disturb the wildlife.
• Community Connection The sanctuary works with the local people, creating jobs and helping to protect the entire island’s unique environment.

As you explore Calauit Wildlife Sanctuary, you’ll be amazed by the diverse landscapes and lush vegetation. From mangrove forests to savannah grasslands, the sanctuary offers a variety of habitats that support a wide range of wildlife.

Calauit Wildlife Sanctuary is more than a cool place to see animals. Visiting means supporting their efforts to protect these incredible creatures, both the African guests and the amazing native Palawan wildlife.

Planning Your Visit:

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Calauit Wildlife Sanctuary is during the dry season, from November to April.
• How to Get There: You can reach Calauit Wildlife Sanctuary by taking a boat ride from Coron Town.
• Entrance Fee: There is an entrance fee to enter the sanctuary.
• Accommodation: There are several accommodation options available near the sanctuary, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts.

If the idea of hanging out with zebras in the Philippines gets you excited, Calauit needs to be on your bucket list. This is the kind of trip that leaves you with amazing memories and the satisfaction of knowing you helped protect some of the world’s most incredible creatures.

Let me know if you have any questions about visiting Calauit!

Don’t miss the opportunity to encounter giraffes in the Philippines and explore the unique wonders of Calauit Wildlife Sanctuary. Book your Tiki Tours expedition today and embark on an unforgettable adventure!