Baluarte, Vigan

I’ve always wanted to go to Vigan because I find the place amazingly beautiful at night. Pictures speak for themselves – the golden hues of the afternoon, old Spanish houses, kalesas passing by.




It’s like going back to post cards during the Spaniards’ rule, exactly how every page in our elementary History book described every home, every street, every city in the country!
But what’s left for Vigan during the day? – BALUARTE!

I’d be honest to say that there’s not much so special about the zoo. You’d find the common animals that you’d see in other zoos. But what will make your Baluarte visit memorable is the chance to mingle with animals first-hand. Most of the animals are not caged so you’d see ostriches and ponies running here and there. You can touch them, have your pictures taken with them, run with them and even feed them.


Baluarte is owned by no other than Ilocano big wig Chavit Singson. From the Plaza, you can hire a kalesa to take you to Baluarte. The fare will depend on the number of passengers and the travel time would take approximately 15 minutes or less.



Have your picture taken with the tigers. For P100, you get to pose with these huge and beautiful giants. Don’t worry, the tigers have been tamed and they’ve got their foot securely chained. (I actually pity them!) The kuyas are kind and they’d gladly offer to take your picture. Just a quick tip, don’t wear or bring anything neon if you plan to get near the tigers. Trainers said that neons catch tigers' attention quickly and this can make them really playful.