Nestled within the forests of Subic Bay Freeport Zone lies the Zoobic Safari, an animal park that serves as an interactive experience between humans and animals.

Just the drive itself to Zoobic Safari can feel like an adventure. Much of Subic's roads offer a splendid view of its mountains and bayside. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a macaque monkey sitting by the side of the road. Upon arrival, visitors can already anticipate the excitement with its sign claiming to be “the happiest place.”

Starting off the adventure, a special show is put up for guests to have a glimpse of what the animal park has to offer. Expect to hear gleeful cheers and various reactions from the crowd as an array of talented animals start to perform. One of the notable performances comes from two poodles that are exceptional dancers. During the show volunteers from the crowd are picked out to interact with exotic animals such as the Philippine eagle-owl and the binturong (bearcat). You’ll even learn something new as the show explains each animal's traits and their impact on the ecosystem. Upon wrapping up the show, guests are given a chance to observe the animals up close and interact with them.

After the show, guests are free to explore the park as they please. First up is Zoobic Park, a petting zoo wherein guests interact with a diverse array of animals from many regions of the world. Feeding some of the animals barely put a dent in the pocket as fees can range from only ₱20 to ₱100. Most of the animals are also friendly toward humans, often allowing visitors to pet them. 

One of your first encounters will be ancient beings from the past, tortoises as old as 65 years, waiting peacefully for a snack and eager for a gentle rub on their shells. While approaching the tortoise, one might feel intimidated by a sudden hiss coming from it. Fear not, the hiss is simply a noise that comes from the tortoise’s lungs as it withdraws its head quickly into its shell. It’s a sign that they’re only being cautious of the strangers approaching them. Another highlight would be the bird feeding area where guests can channel their inner Disney princesses as love birds feed off their bare hands. Their beaks aren’t too sharp and give off a small prickling sensation that can feel quite relaxing.

For those who are unafraid of snakes and reptiles, the Serpentarium offers a closer look at various cold-blooded creatures. Upon entry, a staff member invites visitors to carry a Burmese python on their shoulders for a photo op. Inside, more sizable snakes such as other pythons and boa constrictors, can be seen resting in their respective enclosures. 

Ever wanted to meet the king of the jungle? A close encounter with lions, where one can also feed them, will surely have you on your feet. While the thought of being close to lions can be intimidating, these lions were anything but, with others just observing guests from their sleeping space. When being fed, the lions appear to be calm and collected, only intent on having their daily snack rather than bothering the spectators. One of the more eager ones, Ann, is placed closest to the entrance where she often stares directly at those who enter, probably thinking which of them is there to give her a treat. It's surprising to see just how similar their mannerisms are to your average house cat.

Acting as the highlight of the entire trip is the Tiger Safari experience. It begins with visitors entering a customized jeepney. What once was the place for a jeepney's wide-open windows is now fittingly replaced with protective bars to keep onlookers safe. As the jeepney drives along, riders can spot two tigers relaxing in their respective areas, both fittingly named Tom and Jerry. Jerry is a lazy tiger who spends a large amount of time just staring at his onlookers. Once enticed by an offering of food, Jerry undergoes a little routine before leaving his little pool area by stretching a bit and drying his fur before approaching the vehicle. Upon closer inspection, Jerry's teeth have no trouble chewing through the chow with his sharp chompers. He ends the spectacle by leaping onto the jeepney. This spectacular feat allows passengers to get a different look of his body as he peers at his onlookers. 

Finally, wrapping up the safari experience is the Croco Loco exhibit, wherein guests will find a pit of crocodiles. A steel grate walkway, which grants a view of the snapping critters directly below, is all that is keeping you from the hungry crocs. Visitors can also opt to feed the crocodiles with a fishing pole. Watch as the crocodiles open their mouths and try to earn a bite, demonstrating their skills as apex predators from their Triassic-era ancestors. One particular crocodile stands out from the crowd, lying completely still with its mouth agape as it stays out of the water, making onlookers debate if it’s alive or just there as a display. Turns out, they’re the smarter one of the bunch as its position allows it to steal the meals from the rest when the chum is lowered down.

Zoobic Safari is a fun interactive experience for all ages. Tickets can be purchased online through their website: https://www.zoomanity.com.ph/themeparks/zoobic-safari/