Manila’s New Philippine Biodome Opens: Attractions, Tickets, and What to Expect

If you are planning a Manila day trip soon, here is your sign to add the Philippine Biodome to your itinerary. It just opened beside Manila Ocean Park and yes, it is the first and only biodome in the country. Think giant netted dome, tropical trees, birds everywhere, and interactive exhibits that make you feel like you are inside a nature documentary but in Luneta. Very random. Very fun. Very Filipino-coded.

And before you ask, yes, kids will love it. Adults will too! Even your lola with the folding fan.

What exactly is inside the Philippine Biodome

Image credit: Manila Ocean Park Website

The space is mostly open-air. More than 80 percent of it. So it honestly feels like you entered a massive dome-shaped jungle. Some spots are covered, but a friendly reminder: Manila weather is moody, so bring an umbrella or raincoat just in case.

The whole place is stroller and wheelchair friendly. Smooth paths, ramps, wide areas. No need to stress about accessibility. Inside, you get a mix of tropical plants and wildlife like orchids, ferns, and giant native trees. Very lush. Very Instagrammable.

What are the top attractions people are talking about

Image credit: Manila Ocean Park Website

Let us start with the Amphitheater Show and Tell. This one is a crowd favourite. The keepers bring out animals, explain their habitats, drop fun facts, and sometimes even let you touch or hold the animal if you are brave enough.

Then there is the Crocodile Tunnel Experience. You can walk or even crawl inside a glass tunnel while a 14 foot saltwater crocodile swims above you. It is giving Jurassic Park energy. Very much a brag-worthy moment for your stories.

If you prefer cute encounters, the animal exhibits have Butterfly Koi Fish, Paddle Fish, and the chaotic but adorable Budgerigars in their aviary. Bird people will love the Brahminy Kites with their reddish brown feathers. You also get the Rufous Hornbill, which is a native Filipino bird, and the super colourful Sun Conures.

For something more interactive, the Flying Encounter lets you meet birds up close. The Freshwater Gallery is a calming space filled with aquatic life. And soon, the Glide Experience zipline will let you soar above the entire Biodome. It is not open yet, but imagine the view from up there.

Also read: Dave & Buster’s Opens First Branch in Manila: New Hangout Spot Alert!

Can you really experience the Aurora Borealis here

Image credit: Manila Ocean Park Website

Yes, and honestly it is one of the most unexpected parts of the Biodome! The Borealis Nights show recreates the Northern Lights with vibrant colours and atmospheric sound. You can catch it daily from 6:30 to 6:45 PM and 7:30 to 7:45 PM. Quick but magical.

Plus, if you feel like shopping, the merch store has plushies, graphic tees, and bird themed souvenirs. The type of store where you tell yourself you will not buy anything, then suddenly you are holding a plush crocodile.

How much are the tickets

Image credit: Manila Ocean Park Website

• Standard Admission: PHP 750

• Advance Booking (at least one day ahead): PHP 680

• Kids 2 feet or shorter: FREE

• Kids above 2 feet: Need a ticket

Tickets are available online through the Manila Ocean Park website or partners like Klook. There are bundle options too if you want to visit Manila Ocean Park or Aqua Adventure. Walk ins are allowed but take note that re entry is not allowed once you enter.

What are the opening hours

Image credit: Manila Ocean Park Website

Location: Manila Ocean Park Complex, behind Quirino Grandstand, Luneta
Monday to Friday: 10 AM to 6 PM
Weekends and holidays: 9 AM to 6 PM

If you want something refreshing, family friendly, and not too far from home, the Philippine Biodome is such a good pick. It is new, still growing, and not too crowded yet. Bring the kids, bring your friends, take a million photos, and enjoy a quick escape into nature right in the middle of Manila.

Featured Image credit: Manila Ocean Park Website