With the fast pace of everyday life and its mounting stress, people become more aware of the importance of taking care of their mental health. Sometimes you just need to breathe, take time to yourself, and enjoy serene surroundings to reset your mind. That was why I decided to visit Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center in Diliman, Quezon City.

It’s not my first time to visit this park, but I chose it because of its accessibility and affordable entrance fee. It’s not easy to find a spot where you can chill and bask in a tranquil environment, but this park is in the city and a snap to reach. That means less time traveling as well as less gas consumption! Read on to find out what I think of this must-visit destination.

What Is Ninoy Aquino Parks And Wildlife Center?

The Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center is a zoological and botanical garden. Named after Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr., this nature park in Quezon City is home to several animals as well as plants native to the Philippines, like Philippine deer, water monitor lizards, and Palawan bearded pigs. It also has a lagoon, aquarium, and playground.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources also uses the park’s Wildlife Rescue Center as a temporary haven for sick, abandoned, and injured wild animals. Here, they can rest and recover – just like the people who visit the park to feel calmer and take a break!

@katandbeyond It’s not easy to find a spot where you can chill and bask in a tranquil environment, but this park is in the city and a snap to reach.#napwc is so pleasant to be able to recharge at such a convenient location. I highly recommend this #naturepark. #quezoncitypark #naturelover #nature #outdoors #mentalhealth ♬ Spring mountain (environmental sound) / bird’s cry(53173) – Killy

Operating Hours

Ninoy Aquino Parks & Wildlife Center is open from Wednesday to Sunday 7:00 am up to 5:00 pm. The Wildlife Rescue Center is 9:00am to 4:00pm except every Thursday as it closes at 3:00pm.

Entrance Fee

Ninoy Aquino Parks & Wildlife Center Entrance fee is only P30.00 per adult.  P15.00 for kids and P45.00 for the parking.

Quezon City Nature Park Rules

• All vehicles shall pass through Gate 2 along North Ave. and park only in designated parking areas.
• A permit is required for the use of the park facilities, commercial filming and commercial photography.
• Vandalism is strictly prohibited inside the park.
• Deadly weapons are not allowed inside the park.
• Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the park.
• Alcoholic Beverages are not allowed inside the park.
• No picking for flowers or any other plants.
• Dogs are allowed inside Ninoy Aquino Parks & Wildlife Center but must be in leash while inside the park and must clean after your pets.
• Pets are NOT allowed inside Wildlife Rescue Center

Little Sights Abound For The Curious Visitor

The park’s lagoon has a charming little fishing village that can be rented out for functions like weddings. Normally, access to this area is closed. Fortunately, the gate was open during my visit so I was able to look around and take beautiful photos of the water.

I also passed by the Bulwagan Ninoy, where the guard kindly let me take a photo. It’s one of the various structures housed within the park. The amphitheater, tea house, and picnic sheds are all for rent. These are also nice spots for gathering in little groups near the beautiful outdoors.

A Nature Park In Quezon City Where You Can Unwind And Relax

Many think that self-care means spending a lot of money on treating yourself. But self-care can also be about having simple pleasures, like walking and enjoying some natural scenery. That was why I was so happy to have some quiet time at Ninoy Aquino Parks. I was even able to do some much-needed exercise because I walked over 5,500 steps during my visit!

I wasn’t the only one enjoying a weekend at the park. There were several families having little picnics and quite a few children playing. Some visitors were riding their bikes. For a while, the park stopped allowing dogs, but then I saw a big billboard that said they’re allowed again. That means you can bring your furry friends with you!

It was so pleasant to be able to recharge at such a convenient location. I’ll definitely update this post as I explore the park in future visits!

Rescue Center

2023 Update! I’ve been meaning to share an update since December 2022 and these photos were taken on December 30 of that year. While there, I had the opportunity to explore their newly upgraded rescue center, which was impressive. The cages were clean and spacious, and it was evident that the staff had taken great care to ensure that the animals were well-cared for. I particularly enjoyed strolling through their mini zoo, where I had the chance to see a variety of species up close.

The entrance fee to the park was affordable, making it accessible to a wider range of visitors. By paying the fee, you’re not only able to enjoy a fun day out, but you’re also helping to support the important work that the staff at the center are doing to protect and care for these animals.

I highly recommend visiting the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center. It’s a wonderful way to spend a day, and you’ll be supporting a great cause in the process.