Rizal finally re-opens Masungi Georeserve for tourists!

You may have been seeing mesmerizing photos and the amazing view of this geopark on the Internet. And now that people are beginning to travel within nearby places, you might be itching to go on an adventure. And to make the time even more perfect, Masungi Georeserve is now open again for visitors!

Choose from two different but exciting trails

Because of its thrilling adventure trails, many weekend backpackers came to love the Masungi Georeserve in Baras, Rizal. This is where hikers trek on challenging terrain, rope courses, and hanging bridges. However, it had a temporary closure because of the COVID-19 threat. And last November 25, the doors of this geopark finally opened to the public with a tree-planting activity.

There are two types of trails to choose from, Discovery and Legacy. The Discovery Trail will take you three to four hours of exploration. It features walkthroughs along with rope courses and stopovers at viewing decks. They added new paths to this trail in 2017, such as the “Sawa”. This one is a rapid exit for people with a handicap and the elderly. It could also be your much-needed tap-out route when you just can’t continue on the trail anymore. The long hanging bridge safely enclosed in nets and ropes seems like the belly of a giant python.

In addition to that, the Discovery Trail showcases “Barangay Dahon,” a stopover for when you just need a few minutes of rest. Its name comes from the hammocks and swings shaped like the leaves and fruits inside the georeserve.

Lastly, there’s the “Bayawak,” which is a steep rope course shaped like the local monitor lizard. The trail may be hard for some but it’s worth it when you get to the top of the karst terrain of limestone rocks.

As a new addition last 2018, the Legacy Trail features a bamboo-lined uphill path called the “Kawayan,” and a series of floating huts and ropeways called the “Amihan.” It offers first-hand experience in tree planting and tree nurturing, as well as the day-to-day struggles of conservation and other restoration efforts. Guests also get to share a humble ‘minalot‘, a rice meal prepared and packed in banana leaves.

Rules for safety compliance

To visit the place, Masungi Georeserve authorities are requiring all travelers to book a private trail visit at least three days ahead. They also have a limit of a minimum of five persons per group and a maximum of eight. According to IATF guidelines, children below 21 years old and adults above 60 years old should stay home. They will not allow entry of those who fall in this age bracket.

Visitors must also observe minimum health guidelines such as submitting health forms, wearing masks, and practicing social distancing. Fees per head start at PHP 1,500.

Masungi Georeserve is at Garden Cottages, Kilometer 45 Marcos Highway, Baras, Rizal. To learn more, you can check Masungi Georeserve’s website.