Chavit Singson’s Baluarte

For Sunset Goddess Manila’s DEFINITIVE TRAVEL GUIDE TO ILOCOS, click here. 

 

On our second day in Vigan, we headed to Baluarte, the mini zoo/park owned by Province of Ilocos Sur Governor (and all-around controversial politician) Luis “Chavit” Singson, Jr. It was around 10-15 minutes away by tricycle from our hotel, Grandpa’s Inn.

I was surprised to learn that there’s no entrance fee—the governor supposedly wants to share this with his people and tourists. But I guess they make money for maintenance and care of the animals through the consignors and food establishments inside the park.

First thing we saw (and my favorite!) were the birds lined up by the entrance. We literally heard the birds chirp this time 🙂

Then we saw camels and ostriches

And some small ponies and checked out some crossbows

Then we got to see the tigers

We had to pay P150 for a picture with the live tiger though (complete with a 5×7 picture)

And finally, enjoyed a few minutes cooling off the hot summer morning with a refreshing Magnolia twin popsies in new watermelon flavor with a cute pink and green butterfly shape 🙂 The small pleasures of life indeed 🙂

Wishing us all more travels. And the small joys only summer can bring. Cheers!

{For Sunset Goddess Manila’s TRAVEL GUIDE TO ILOCOS, click here}

 

For more information on Baluarte, visit www.chavitsingson.net/baluarte/
Hours of Operation: 7 AM to 6 PM. Open everyday
Free admission