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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.

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.

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.

• Dry Season is Best: Less rain means happier animals and easier exploring for you!
• Pack Smart: Sunscreen, bug spray, sturdy shoes for walking, and a rain jacket just in case!
• What to Expect: Tours usually last a full day, with time for exploring, lunch, and animal encounters.
• Bonus: If you’re extra adventurous, Green Gecko Expeditions offers a boat trip from Coron to El Nido – you could add Calauit to your island-hopping itinerary!

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!