Baluarte Zoo

When was the last time you went to a zoo? Do you enjoy seeing animals in their flesh as compared to those on TV or in books?

My oldest child has an intense curiosity about animals and constantly asks to go to the zoo whenever he has the chance. In contrast to my toddler, he prefers to watch animals roam freely rather than in cages. We mark this itinerary to decide whether or not to proceed, based on opposing points of view.

After a brief discussion of the itinerary and rules regarding touching, feeding, and other activities inside the zoo, they eventually decide to go explore the Baluarte Zoo.

Baluarte Zoo is a more than 100-hectare zoological park located in Vigan, Ilocos Sur. It is owed by a wealthy politician and businessman, Chavit Singson. It is the home of local and imported animals. The zoo offers several types of packages to its visitors. We availed of the package B tour because it comes with a free shuttle. Given the size of the area, having a shuttle to get around is an advantage.

We managed to get in after paying and getting a stamp. The shuttle service was then waiting for us. There are a few animals roaming free next to the shuttle area, so we checked it first before riding the shuttle.

Before taking the shuttle, we had observed a number of creatures, including camels, ostriches, deer, and donkeys. We'll ride the shuttle to the Safari Gallery and get up close and personal with a white lion. We were hesitant when the guide brought it up since, according to what we had discussed with the kids, we would not be touching any animals, and now we will be petting a white lion. How quickly things have changed!

Prior to getting up close to the lion, we had to wait in line, and at that time, we witnessed the playful behavior of the lion—biting the man in charge. Both my spouse and I, as well as the children, were uneasy about approaching.

When it was our turn, we almost did not touch it. Just by looking at those huge teeth, that big cat is scary! We made the safest pose we could and went through it. Finally over!

As we ride the shuttle to the next location, we have noticed a few more animals in the enclosure. I was drawn to this lone antelope since it appears to be by itself inside its cage.

Feeding the giraffe is the next activity. Take a look at how strong and tall it is. As we watch it slowly move forward to reach the tree leaves, our first impression of the animal is one of a harmless kind.

They made a makeshift platform so the zoo goers could go up and get up close to the giraffe to feed it. We didn't miss going up for the experience.

Feeding the giraffe and getting up close to it is our favorite part of our visit to the zoo. Look how adorable the eyes of the giraffe are up close.

The experience gave us the realization that we should care for animals and respect their natural habitat so that they no longer live inside the enclosure. It was a memorable experience for all of us.

Thank you for reading!

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_{All photos were taken by me, unless stated otherwise.
The lead image was edited using Canva.}