Philippines | Ultimate Wildlife Encounters

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The Philippines is a world-class destination with amazing landscapes and seascapes. I have already shared the top tourist destinations and the must-try adventures in the Philippines. Beyond its natural beauty and the thrilling activities, I want to highlight that the Philippines’ rich biodiversity. While we aim to showcase the rawest experience, we will also include conservation center which preserve and protect endangered wildlife.

With that, sharing the most incredible wildlife encounters I’ve experience in Philippines:

Swimming with Turtles in Apo Island, Negros Oriental

There are numerous places in the Philippines where you can swim with turtles, but for me, Apo Island is the best spot. Apo Island is a volcanic island, a marine sanctuary and a popular dive site near Dumaguete City. What makes it special is the abundance of sea turtles in the area. You don’t even need to swim far to see one. This is the reason why Apo Island is my top destination if you want to swim with turtles.

Here’s a detailed guide to Apo Island

Recommendation: This is a marine sanctuary, you should follow the rules of the area. Also, if you cannot avoid using sunblock, ensure it is reef safe.

Tip: Bring or rent fins so it is easier to swim with the turtles.

WATCH THE FULL VLOG HERE

2. Swimming with Whale Sharks in Donsol, Sorsogon

Swimming with whale sharks is another must-try experience in Philippines. While Oslob, Cebu is more popular, Donsol, Sorsogon offers a more eco-friendly experience. To see the largest fish in the world up-close is definitely a surreal experience.

Recommendation: The one I prefer is in Donsol, Sorsogon, because unlike in Oslob, Donsol offer a more sustainable and ethical tour, less impact on the natural behavior of whale shark

Tip: Bring or rent fins so it is easier to swim with the whale sharks.

3. Tarsier Sanctuary in Bohol

Tarsier is a small primate endemic to the Visayas region, with Bohol being the famous place to see them. There’s a conservation area in Bohol that ensures preservation of this endangered species. Aside from eco-tourism, the tarsier sanctuary also pushes for the environmental awareness among visitors.

Here’s a detailed guide to Bohol

Recommendation: While this activity is only a short walk in a forest path, I highly recommend to include this in your itinerary when visiting Bohol. It helps with the conservation program of the tarsier.

Tip: If you want a close-up photo of the tarsier, bring a camera with a zoom lens. Also, strictly no flash photography.

WATCH THE FULL VLOG HERE

4. Philippine Eagle in Davao

Philippine Eagle Center is the only breeding and rehabilitation facility of the Philippine Eagle in the world. It is located about an hour and a half from Davao City proper. Philippine Eagle Center conduct educational tours to visitors.

Here’s a detailed guide to Davao.

Recommendation: Visiting this center helps support the conservation program of the Philippine Eagle.

Tip: Book the guided tour in advance through https://www.philippineeagle.org

WATCH THE FULL VLOG HERE

5. Black Tip Sharks in Danjugan Island

Danjugan Island, located in Negros Occidental, is a wildlife and marine sanctuary owned by Philippine Reef and Rainforest Conservation Foundation, Inc. (PRRCFI). Danjugan Island has a rich marine and wildlife, but the most memorable one for me, was the black tip sharks. We saw numerous baby black tip sharks, swimming in shallow waters.

Recommendation: This place is a perfect place to learn and connect with nature. Be aware that electricity and mobile reception are limited.

Tip: Danjugan island is available by reservations only. Book your visit through https://danjuganisland.ph

6. Safari experience in Calauit Island

A safari experience in Philippines. Calauit Island, also known as Calauit Safari Park, is a wildlife sanctuary in the Busuanga, Palawan. Originally established as a game reserve, it is now a wildlife sanctuary, home to giraffes, zebras and antelopes from Kenya. As well as endemic wildlife such as Calamian Deer. Visitors can feed the giraffes and deers, but keep as safe distance from zebras. Always follow your guide to be safe.

Recommendation: A visit to this island helps support the park’s operation and conservation effort of Calauit Safari Park.

Tip: You can include this in your Coron itinerary if you have extra time and budget.

This is my Ultimate list of wildlife encounters in the Philippines. I haven’t covered the whole of Philippines yet. If you have any recommendations, let me know in the comment section

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