Rediscover the wonders of nature in Rizal
For city dwellers, living in the concrete jungle can make them feel overwhelmed after a while. It’s because the energy of Metro Manila is too electrifying that they tend to get physically and mentally drained. So, you can’t blame them for craving an escape from the daily hustle.
And what better escape is there than nature? Being one with nature is the antidote for whatever is going on in life. If you’re looking to explore the great outdoors, perhaps you want to consider Rizal, the heartland of Central Luzon, as the first stop of your itinerary.
Lying in the foothills of the Sierra Madre range, Rizal is a naturally gifted province with its towering mountains, striking rock cliffs, and cascading waterfalls. It has also become a popular tourist destination due to its proximity to the Metro, which is only 16 kilometers away!
There is no better place to recharge your tired soul than among Rizal’s pristine beauties. Grab your notebook as you’re going to write these down on your ultimate nature bucket list!
Masungi Georeserve
Book your nature trip right away to Masungi Georeserve, a conservation project that aims to preserve the limestones and karst formations, as well as the flora and fauna.
It offers you to explore the whole area by walking on hanging bridges 600 meters above sea level. Don’t worry though, its pathways are made of sturdy metal to ensure your safety.
Address: Kilometer 47 Marcos Highway, Baras, Rizal
Operating Hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Contact: trail@masungigeoreserve.com / 09088887002
Pililla Wind Farm
Yes, you’ve read that right. You can find these scattered giant wind turbines along the rolling hills of Rizal, so there’s no need to travel far.
Towering over Laguna De Bay, the Pililla Wind Farm consists of 27 wind turbines that provide clean energy to thousands of households in the province. You can visit here to enjoy the cool, strong gusts of wind and of course, to admire the scenery.
Address: Manila East Road Brgy. Halayhayin, Pililla, Rizal
Daranak Falls
Searching for the next place to unwind? Make sure to visit the 14-meter high Daranak Falls for a quick and refreshing dip. This hidden paradise is surrounded by lush greeneries, forest trees, wild plants, and a relentless flow of turquoise waters from the mountains of Tanay. All of this lends a tranquil ambiance that will make you come back for more.
Address: Daranak Falls Access Road, Tanay, Rizal
Operating Hours: Every day, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Contact: daranakfalls2020@gmail.com / 0965-3564493 / 0928-7838322
Treasure Mountain
Instead of heading to another nearby waterfall, why not switch it up and consider overnight camping? You can pitch a tent and dine under the stars with your family and friends at the no-hike peak campsite, Treasure Mountain. It is an ideal spot to unplug and commune with nature for a night, and wake up to its floating sea of clouds the next morning!
Address: Sitio Maysawa Brgy. Cuyambay, Tanay, Rizal
Operating Hours: 5:00 AM to 3:00 PM (Day tour), 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM (Overnight check-in)
Palaya Eco-Natural Farm
If you’re in the mood for a different outdoor activity, then you can get your hands busy and reap some delicious rewards at the Palaya Eco-Natural Farm. The scenic 68-hectare farm is home to over 36,000 dragon fruit posts planted on its wide plains.
It is highly recommended to visit Palaya during their “Market Day” every Saturday, where they sell a variety of freshly harvested fruits and vegetables.
Address: Sta Ines Rd, Brgy Cayabu, Tanay, Rizal
Operating Hours: Everyday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Contact: info@palayafarm.com / +63 926 065 6757
Angono-Binangonan Petroglyphs
Do you want to relish an amazing blend of origin and artistry? Also known as the Cradle of Philippine Art, Rizal Province testifies to the rich artistic legacy passed down through the years. One example is the Angono-Binangonan Petroglyphs, which are thought to be the oldest artworks in the country. It’s rock wall carvings will give you a glimpse of how our ancestors once lived.
Address: Brgy. Bilihiran, Binangonan, Rizal
Operating Hours: Everyday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Contact: nmabpetroglyphs@gmail.com
Pamitinan Protected Landscape
Rizal is a playground for both veteran and newbie hikers, thanks to the vast tract of slopes that can be found here. This protected landscape covers three majestic peaks: Mt. Pamitinan, Mt. Binacayan, and Mt. Hapunang Banoi. Each trail may be challenging, but the breathtaking sight from the summit makes it all worthwhile. It will surely quench your thirst for adventure.
Address: M. H. Del Pilar Street, Rodriguez, Rizal
Wawa Dam
After the long yet fulfilling hike, you can also cool down by the stream of Wawa Dam. This historical gorge features floating cottages called balsa where you can eat while soaking your feet in the running water.
In case you don’t want to swim or rent a cottage, you can take a boat ride and appreciate its entire picturesque view. What a perfect way to conclude your outdoor adventure, right?
Address: M. H. Del Pilar Street, Rodriguez, Rizal
Rizal is indeed an excellent pick for free spirits seeking to immerse themselves in the beautiful gems of the Philippines after a long exhausting day. So, are you now looking forward to this kind of healing trip? If absolutely yes, to nature we go!
