It was already 9 years ago when I first experienced Night Safari and Dinner in the Dark at Zoobic Safari. I recently got invited to join again this year and who am I to say no? This will be my 3rd time to be here and the kid in me was more than excited.
We left Makati at 1PM and reached the place around 5PM. It was very humid that day so I highly recommend going here on comfy clothes and don't forget to bring a handheld fan. The Dinner in the Dark will take place around 7PM so off we went to explore the zoo first.
Our first stop was meeting a white tiger. Yup, we got to experience going inside the cage, even fed it with a bottle of milk. I felt a little scared but I took the opportunity to touch its fur and embraced it. Tapang yarn? Did you know that white tigers are a rare color variation of the Bengal tiger? They have white coat with faint black stripes. The white coat is caused by a recessive gene for leucism (a condition that causes a partial loss of pigmentation in animals), not albinism.
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| Close encounter with a white tiger |
After this we went to explore the zoo. A variety of reptiles are inside their Serpentarium. There's also a sanctuary of birds and some rare species of animals. I like that the zoo experience is very interactive. We got to fed some animals- I volunteered feeding the deers and a lion! How awesome is that!
There are over a hundred crocodiles at Croco Loco. We walked by a steel walkway and yes, I had these intrusive thoughts of 'What if may isang crocodile na biglang tumalon sa amin?' And while walking there can be a bit terrifying, we were assured that the place is very safe. If you're feeling more adventurous, you can also feed them. You know some crocs can never have enough. IYKYK.
After this was the most exciting part of the evening- the Night Safari. I had experienced the Tiger Safari before on a daylight and it was a different adrenaline rush to have it in the dark. So we went inside a caged jeep- 3-4 people in a row. If you feel you can handle getting super close to a tiger, choose the seat by the window. Our guide had a dressed chicken in hand and so the tiger sure jumped into us to haul its food making our hearts leap. The tiger even jumped over the top of our jeep! It was wild and fun!
DINNER IN THE DARK
On this visit, Zoobic Safari opened its Dinner in the Dark- a unique sensory dining experience held in total darkness. And while this is not the 1st time I had this, it is still that same emotional and inspiring experience that I got to feel.
An orientation is given before the dinner. Then it was time to put on our blindfolds. Walking in groups, holding the hand of the person on my front, we were led inside the dining area. It is a learning curve to be able to eat while blindfolded. My spoon dove into the plate several times before I finally got rice. Doing something like this truly hits you in the core. I found myself feeling emotional- almost teary-eyed- because I feel for our visually impaired brothers. Pagkain pa lang, mahirap na. Imagine them going through life everyday. It is in these experiences that we feel more blessed and grateful for the eyesight that we have.
Truly, this is a very worthy activity of Zoobic Safari. Proceeds from Dinner in the Dark will benefit programs for the visually impaired in Zambales.
FIERY NIGHT SHOW
After the dinner, guests were treated to a fiery show. It featured a parade of animals and a wonderful fire dance act from the staff of Zoobic Safari. It was a jaw-dropping performance, our eyes literally went big for each act. I even thought this was a better show from the one that I saw in Singapore!
HOW TO GO TO ZOOBIC SAFARI
via private vehicle
Take NLEX and exit via San Fernando towards Olongapo. Then, take the Tipo-Subic Expressways towards Subic Bay Freeport Zone.
by bus
Take Victory Liner bus to Subic Bay Freeport Zone. There's a service inside Subic but best to inquire before going there. I also read somewhere that there are also taxicabs in the area.
EXPERIENCE ZOOBIC SAFARI
A visit to Zoobic Safari takes a daring turn when the sun sets. The Night Safari offers the glimpse of the wild in its most natural form, thrilling me with every rustle in the dark. The Dinner in the Dark turns an ordinary meal into an unforgettable sensory experience. It made me realize how much vivid food can taste when sight isn't in the way. If you're looking for something extraordinary to do in Subic, this after-dark combo is definitely worth the trip.
You can book tickets to Zoobic Safari on their WEBSITE. Alternatively, you can also book via KLOOK. Or use my code ALLANBOUGHKLOOK for discounts. Please note that Dinner in the Dark is on a limited run on Saturdays from Oct 25, 2025 to January 3, 2026.
Zoobic Safari
Ilanin Forest, Subic Freeport Zone
For inquiries and reservations, contact (0915) 8904728
Follow Zoobic Safari on Facebook for updates
Ilanin Forest, Subic Freeport Zone
For inquiries and reservations, contact (0915) 8904728
Follow Zoobic Safari on Facebook for updates
The Filipino Rambler is a vibrant travel and food blog that serves as a delightful guide to the beauty of the Philippines. Explore enchanting destinations, savor culinary delights at hidden gems, and stay updated on the hippest events across the archipelago. With a passionate advocacy for Philippine tourism, The Filipino Rambler is your go-to source for discovering the rich tapestry of culture, flavors, and experiences that make the Philippines a must-visit destination
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