Information about Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary

Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary

Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary is located in Basak, Cebu City and is operated by the Jumalon Foundation. It is a private museum, art gallery, and nature reserve and was originally constructed in 1974 as the residence of late Cebuano lepidopterist Julian Navarro Jumalon. 

Prof. Jumalon amassed a sizable collection of butterflies through his journeys around the world and through the trade of indigenous Philippine insects for exotic species. His interest in Lepidoptera did not end with the preservation and framing of specimens. He desired a close proximity to butterflies, especially uncommon ones. 

To attract these butterflies, he planted butterfly-attracting plants around his home. Additionally, he caught and released live specimens in his greenhouse. His array of butterflies is the country's oldest and possibly largest.

Following his demise, his children and grandchildren established a foundation to care for his collection and the compound, which had been a tourist attraction prior to the founder's death.

The garden contains over a hundred species of butterfly food plants. Among these plants are fifty species of butterflies, both indigenous and exotic. Certain rare species are hatched and released in captivity.

How to get there

Ride a jeepney route from Colon bound for Basak, Pardo in order to get to the butterfly sanctuary.

Best time to visit

You can visit Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary everyday, Monday to Sunday, from 9 AM to 5 PM.

Entrance fee

There is an entrance fee to this butterfly sanctuary.