Updated. August 18, 2020. Some people would always ask me, “What’s the best place to visit in Manila?”, and I always wonder what that is. Well, the truth is, I don’t really know what to say. Why? There are so many good places to visit around Manila. For me, I would always recommend something that is surely worth it. That’s definitely the National Museum of the Philippines. The good thing is, everyone can now visit the National Museum of Natural History. It is located along Rizal Park.
Apparently, there are four national museums in Manila. They are the National Museum of Fine Arts, National Museum of Anthropology, National Museum of National History, and National Planetarium.
The newest ones are the National History and Planetarium.
Table of Contents
The National Museum of Natural History
If you want to learn more about the Philippine biodiversity, then you must head over to the National Museum of Natural History. This is the best place to learn more about our environment. Not to mention the marine ecosystems, the fauna and flora in different parts of the country. Moreover, the various environmental issues that the Philippines has been facing over the years.
The National Museum of Natural History has 12 main rooms. Each room showcases the Philippines’ natural ecosystems. From the upper floors, it showcases mountains and rainforests. Meanwhile, the lower floors exhibit wetlands and marine biodiversity. It is highly suggested to start your tour from the top floor all the way down to the first floor.
Temporary Exhibitions
Our Natural Inheritance
The Marine Realm
Mangroves, Beaches, and Interval Zones
Freshwater Wetlands
Ultramafic and Limestone Karst Forests
Lowland Evergreen Rainforests
Mossy, Montane and Fine Forests
Life through Time
Minerals and Energy Resources
The Geology of the Philippines
Philippine Biodiversity
Best things to see at the National Museum of Natural History
The National Museum of Natural History has a lot of interesting things that are on display in each of the rooms. But I have listed
Lolong’s skin and skeleton
Lolong was the largest saltwater crocodile in captivity. You can see Lolong’s skin and skeleton in the National Museum of Natural History. Definitely one of the most popular attractions of the national museum.
When I actually saw it, I got fascinated by how huge and long it was! Amazing!
The Tree of Life
Do not forget to visit the first floor of the building. This is where you can view the most popular “Tree of Life” which serves as the center point of the gallery. On this floor, you may also get to see more of the petrified wood (wood becomes rock over time).
The Replica of the Mangrove Forest
Get to get know more about mangroves, beaches, and interval zones in this gallery. There is even a replica of a mangrove forest where you can walk along the area while hearing the sound of the chirping birds.
The Marine Realm and Waves of Species
Personally, this is my most favorite room! I really love the ocean. In fact, I am very much interested in marine biodiversity. That’s why when I got into this room; I really got amazed by it!
Expect lots of marine species that are displayed in the gallery. A big whale shark and a stingray are very noticeable in this area. In addition, there is also a huge submarine where you can go inside.
This is surely the best place to learn more facts and information about the Philippine marine biodiversity!
What’s more?
The newest exhibition that you can get to see here is the Wave of Species.
Manila is definitely a place for shopping malls, hotels & casinos, parks, street malls, and museums. But, to be honest, I don’t think all of them are worth visiting. If you want to know how rich the Philippines in natural resources is, you should visit the National Museum of Natural History!
Operating Hours
10:00 AM – 05:00 PM, Tuesdays-Sundays
Closed on Mondays
NO ENTRANCE FEE!!!!
Location
Agrifina Circle, Rizal Park, Manila
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Hey, my name is Ara Patria—a solo female traveler who is in her quest of traveling the world. I write and learn about life through the lenses of my camera, personal experiences, and adventures. Join me as I unravel the mystery of life through exploring the wanders of the world.