Slip back into time when ferocious, giant lizards ruled the land—but do so in the safety of a unique theme park nestled in Clark, Pampanga

Written by Erika Coronel
Photographed by Jerick Sanchez

Learning history can get boring. But not when you are standing a mere inches away from whatever it is you are studying! In Dinosaurs Island, you can do just that: get up close and personal with prehistoric creatures while they move and growl.

Dinosaurs Island is the first animatronics theme park in the Philippines. It features life-size dinosaurs, dinosaur exhibits and more. Taking this trip is, no doubt, educational, but you will be amazed at how much effort was put into creating the place. The Dino Trail, for one, feels like you’ve slipped into a time warp.

Main Attractions

Dino Trail

The Dino Trail, where the thirty species of moving and growling dinosaurs are displayed, will make you believe that you are in a different world. The path is impressive: a stretch of dirt and thick plants that features the dinosaurs in what can be described as something closest to their natural habitat.

World of Fun
All the walking required in the Dino Trail ends here. And the program is different for everyone, depending on whether your companions are adults, kids or a combination of both. During the team’s visit, we were all adults. That meant that the dancing dinosaurs “preyed” on us—I won’t share exactly how, but I will give this tip: do not scream. However, for those visiting with younger kids, it will be a great opportunity for the little ones to see the dinosaurs in a different, more modern light which can increase their curiosity for the creatures of the Mesozoic era.

Jurassic Jungle Safari
If you are not one to walk, then take a short tram ride. And if you are expecting it to be similar to the movie Jurassic Park’s scene where the tram rides are quite “adventurous,” you hit the nail on the head. Not to spoil anything, all I will say is that the ride might not be for the faint of heart.

Note: If you have young children with you, it is best to speak to the staff. They can make the tram ride more enjoyable (read: not frightening) by tweaking what is in store.

Other activities
Watching in the 7D Cinema is an experience you won’t forget. Not only does the cinema require 3D glasses for viewing, but the seats move as well. When we watched a short movie where we were supposedly riding a mine cart, we really felt like we were on a roller coaster. It was that good.

What to bring
• Anti-mosquito repellant
• Sun block
• Change of clothes for the kids
• Drinking water
What children should wear
• Long pants
• Closed shoes

Dinosaurs Island is located at Clark Freeport Zone, 2009 Angeles City; mobile (905)261 6521, (915)943 3689, (932)744 9783; email <dinosaurisland_clarkland@yahoo.com>