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Check Out These 10 Must-try Adventures in Tanay, Rizal Whether You Like Outdoor Getaways in Land or Water
Let this guide show you around the fantastic place and weekend getaways in Tanay, Rizal!
By: Denisse Shawntel Tan | January 01, 2023
Rizal is home to various natural attractions.
Image: Masungi Georeserve Facebook page
If there’s one word to describe Tanay, Rizal, it would be “refreshing.” Just a couple of hours away from Metro Manila, the town is an easy choice for weekend getaways near Manila. As it is filled with natural attractions, prepare to see beautiful mountain ranges, waterfalls, pools, rock formations, and spectacular views when exploring the area. In addition to these, Tanay is also filled with historical places.
This guide contains the 10 most popular getaways in Tanay, Rizal. Everything you need to know to make your weekend getaways in Rizal a breeze, from the budget to directions on getting there, is also given. Read on!
1. Regina Rica
Location: Sitio Aguho, Brgy. Sampaloc, Tanay, Rizal
Entrance Fee: Free
The Regina Rica is maintained by the Dominican Sisters of Regina Rosarii.
Image: Grace Anne Masinsin Bongon
When you’re done with the city’s chaotic atmosphere, find solace at Regina Rica. A sanctuary and place for prayers, Regina Rica, is a popular spot for pilgrimage and a place for the faithful who want a peaceful atmosphere. The 13.5-hectare land’s main attraction is the 71-foot statue of the Queen of the Holy Rosary.
There’s also a chapel inside the statue called the Sanctuary of Universal Love and Devotion Chapel (Sulod), where visitors can pray and light candles. The place also features 10,000 trees, three waterfalls, an organic garden, and a koi pond. During the summer, tall sunflowers also bloom. Animals like rabbits, horses, and peacocks also roam around the grass.
Visiting hours are from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Tip: If you’re planning to visit Regina Rica, follow the dress code to enter the chapel. The dress code is the same one followed in most churches. Shorts, slippers, and sleeveless clothes are not allowed, and modest clothes are encouraged.
How to go to Regina Rica: Ride a UV or jeepney to Tanay’s Sampaloc Terminal. If you’re coming from the east, you can ride a jeep from Cogeo Gate 2, Padilla, or around Pasig-Cainta junction. Upon arriving at Sampaloc Terminal, ride a tricycle to Regina Rica.
2. Tanay Church
Location: M.H. Del Pilar St, Plaza Aldea, Tanay, Rizal
Entrance Fee: None
The initial church was finished in 1620 but got destroyed over time until its reconstruction in 1738.
Image: @rimie13
The San Ildefonso Church, better known as Tanay Church, is one of the 26 heritage churches in the Philippines recognized by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts. Completed in 1783, the church has witnessed many historical events and has withstood wars and natural calamities. At the front of the church is a 16-foot wooden sculpture of the Virgin Mary. Just beside the church is another sculpture of San Ildefonso, the patron saint of Tanay, Rizal.
Tip: Observe basic church etiquette. Also, since the church is located in a well-populated part of Tanay, commuting to the area won’t be as difficult.
How to go to Tanay Church: Ride a Tanay-bound UV or jeep from Shaw Boulevard. Ask the driver to drop you off at Plaza Aldea. From there, you’d quickly notice the church.
3. Calinawan Cave
Location: Rawang Hills, Brgy. Tandang Kutyo, Tanay, Rizal
Rates: PhP20 per head (entrance fee), PhP200 (guide fee)
Calinawan Cave is also a popular setting for local movies and series.
Images: @therealjssetiar (L); @kimmychuy (R)
Originally used as a hideout by Filipino revolutionaries during the Spanish-American War, Calinawan Cave is rich with history. According to the stories, the cave got its name after it served as the venue for a truce between Japanese and American soldiers during World War II—thus, the word “linaw” means clear or settled.
Besides the impressive rock formations, this cave adventure in Tanay, Rizal, also contains explorable chambers and flowing spring water. If you’re lucky, you might also see sparkling crystals nearby. And if you’re an adventurous soul, you can ask your guide for other trails to explore.
Tip: Avoid touching the natural crystals in the cave since they die when touched by foreign objects. Take nothing but pictures to preserve the cave’s beauty.
How to go to Calinawan Cave: Head to EDSA Crossing (Shaw Boulevard) and ride a van bound for Tanay. The van will stop at the Tanay Central Terminal. From there, you can ride a tricycle to Calinawan Cave. Expect to pay PhP150 for a maximum of five passengers.
4. Daranak Falls
Location: Daranak Falls Rd., Tanay, Rizal
Entrance Fee: PhP50 (kids), PHP75 (adult)
Daranak Fall is a spot you should check out if you want to be one with nature.
Image: Daranak Falls and Resort Facebook page
Among the attractions on this list, Daranak Falls is one of the most famous. A well-known summer destination for locals and tourists, Daranak Falls is a majestic 14-meter-high natural waterfall that cascades gracefully onto a blue-green river. The fall’s cold water is rejuvenating and can uplift any tired body. Adding to the relaxing ambiance are the sounds of the falls and birds.
Tip: Bring a mosquito repellant since the falls insects are all around. Moreover, note that plastics and styrofoam are not allowed on the premises. Alcoholic beverages and pets are also not allowed.
How to go to Daranak Falls: From Starmall (Edsa Shaw) take an FX to Tanay (PhP70) or a jeepney (PhP53). The terminal is near MRT Shaw/in front of Starmall EDSA. Alight at Tanay Public Market Transport Terminal and proceed to the Daranak Falls Tricycle Terminal (PATODA Riders). The fare is P200/trip maximum of four pax/tricycle).
5. Tanay Adventure Camp
Location: Sitio Malaanonang, Sampaloc, Tanay, Rizal
Rates:
Entrance Fee: PhP50
Accommodations: Range PhP600 to PhP4,500
The activities in Tanay Adventure Camp build your outdoor skills and leadership.
Image: Tanay Adventure Camp Facebook page
If you seek adventure and fun activities, Tanay Adventure Camp provides enough activities to get you moving. Thrill-seekers would enjoy activities such as ziplining, high ropes, paragliding, paintball, swimming, and water trekking. The site is also suitable for team building with its strings and obstacle course, introductory rappelling course, basic mountaineering, and wall climbing amenities. The jungle environment survival training and basic first aid classes also prepare any first-time or newbie explorers. For those planning to stay overnight, relaxing and comfortable accommodations are available within the complex.
Tip: Check the age requirement per activity since most are unsuitable for younger children.
How to go to Tanay Adventure Camp: Ride any UV or jeepney to Tanay’s Sampaloc Terminal. If you’re coming from the east, you can ride a jeep from Cogeo Gate 2, Padilla, or around Pasig-Cainta junction. Upon arriving at the Sampaloc Terminal, ride a tricycle to Tanay Adventure Camp.
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6. Bakasyunan Resort
Location: Sitio Balimbing Plaza Aldea Tanay, Rizal
Rates:
Swimming Pool: PhP100 (kids), PhP200 (adult)
Cottage: Range PhP9,900 to PhP10,400
Barkada Packages: Range PhP14,200 to PhP16,900 (suitable for 10 pax)
Bakasyunan is a spot where you can relax and have adventures.
Image: Writer
Like its name suggests, Bakasyunan Resort is a place to be if you want to have a relaxing vacation. Bakasyunan is a Filipino word that translates to “vacation place.” It is known for its stunning view of the Sierra Madre mountains and Laguna de Bay. Bakasyunan is a vast 15-hectare getaway that serves as a sanctuary for vacationers, families, friends, and couples.
This getaway in Tanay, Rizal, is a recreational hub where you can engage in multiple outdoor activities. Primary sports such as basketball, table tennis, mini golf, and volleyball are available. Along with swimming in the pools, some of the things you can do include ziplining, mud sliding, ATV riding, wall climbing, and horseback riding. The latest addition to the resort is Bali-inspired attractions like the giant swing, giant nest, and circled bamboo.
Tip: Outside food is strictly prohibited in the resort, but there is a bar and restaurant just a few steps from the swimming pool area. As much as possible, rent a car since it is hard to commute to this part of Tanay.
How to go to Bakasyunan Resort: Ride a Tanay-bound van or jeepney from Shaw Boulevard or around Sta. Lucia in Cainta. Tell the driver to drop you off at Jollibee Tanay. Upon arriving at Jollibee, ride a tricycle to Bakasyunan Resort. The fare is around PhP160/for four pax. Ask the driver to pick you up when you check out since public transportation is hard to come by at the location.
7. Treasure Mountain
Location: Sitio Maysawa, Barangay Cuyambay, Tanay, Rizal
Rates:
Entrance Fee: PhP180 (without breakfast), PhP350 (with breakfast), PhP350 (overnight with breakfast)
Cottages: Range PhP350 to PhP550
Lodging: PhP500 per night
The best time to see the sea of clouds is at dawn.
Image: Treasure Mountain Facebook page
If you’re looking for white sand beaches and blue seas, you won’t find them in Tanay. But there’s a different kind of sea you can find here, one in the form of clouds. Treasure Mountain is known not only for its heavenly view but also for its sea of clouds. The mountain is an excellent site for nature lovers and those who want to relax and marvel at the greenery and breathtaking sight of mountain ranges. Stargazing is also an option; if you’re planning on doing so, you can rent a tent for your overnight stay.
What’s more? You can try the newest activity, the Giant Seesaw, for PhP300. You can feast your eyes on a scenic Sierra Madre mountain range and sea of clouds on a twenty-five-foot-perch.
Tip: If you want to see the sea of clouds, get to the place before sunrise. If you are in a private vehicle, prepare for a muddy and rocky road to Treasure Mountain.
How to go to Treasure Mountain: Ride any UV or jeepney to Tanay (if you’re coming from the east, you can ride a jeep from Cogeo Gate 2 or Padilla or around Pasig-Cainta junction). For those living in the north or south, you can head to Starmall Shaw UV Express terminal and ride a van to Tanay. Then, get off at Sitio Maysawa waiting shed. You can ride a tricycle to get to Treasure Mountain.
8. Pililla Windmill Farm
Location: Manila East Road, Brgy. Halayhayin, Pililla, Rizal
Entrance Fee: PhP200 per person
The windmills are not only an excellent source of energy but also helpful in tourism.
Image: @dindinemn
You don’t have to go to Ilocos Norte to marvel at gigantic windmills when equally beautiful Pilillia windmills are just two hours away! The Pilillia Windmill Farm features 27 towering giant wind turbines scattered around 64 hectares. But being a wonderful sight is just a plus; the windmills are very important in providing clean and renewable energy. The site consists only of windmills and several souvenir shops.
Tip: Try to visit in the morning or late afternoon. Expect hot temperatures if you’re going around 11:00 PM to 1:00 PM. Make sure to wear sunscreen or bring an umbrella. Also, the signal reception around the area can be weak.
How to go to Pilillia Windmill Farm: Ride a jeep or van to Tanay from Starmall Shaw. Get off at the Tanay town proper, then take a jeep to Siniloan. Alight at the Pililla Windmill Farm. Ride a tricycle to the site. The tricycle fare ranges from PhP200 to PhP300.
9. Masungi Georeserve
Location: Masungi Georeserve Garden Cottages, Kilometer 47 Marcos Highway, Baras, Rizal
Conservation Fee: PhP1,500 (weekdays), PhP1,800 (weekend)
The trek for the discovery trail in Masungi Georeserve takes about three to four hours for ages 13 and above.
Image: Masungi Georeserve Facebook page
The Masungi Georeserve has a rich history behind its establishment. In the late 90s, the area that is now the georeserve was almost destroyed by illegal logging and land-grabbing activities. However, the land was reclaimed, and the site has been in the process of restoration and rehabilitation. For over two decades, this weekend getaway in Rizal has been sharing the beauty of nature. At the same time, working to influence communities and tourists to preserve the land.
Tip: Walk-ins are not allowed; you must arrange your visit beforehand. There is only a logo beside the highway that serves as the marker. There is also no great signage or entrance to the georeserve. For more accessible travel, you can rent the site’s recommended transportation providers.
How to get there: Ride any UV or jeepney to Tanay’s Sampaloc Terminal. If you’re coming from the east, you can ride a jeep from Cogeo Gate 2, Padilla, or around Pasig-Cainta junction. Upon arriving at the Sampaloc Terminal, you can ask tricycle drivers to get you to Masungi Georeserve.
10. Paglitaw Natural Pools
Location: Sitio Rawang, Brgy Tandang Kutyo, Tanay Rizal
Rates:
Entrance Fee: PhP25 (kids), PhP50 (adult)
Cottage: PhP400
The waters of the Paglitaw Natural Pools are in shades of greenish blue.
Image: Paglitaw Natural Pools Facebook page
Why not try natural pools if you’re looking for something besides artificial ones? Free from harsh chemicals, the Paglitaw Natural Pools feature cold and flowing water from the surrounding falls. It is also near other attractions, such as Calinawan Cave, and its impressive rock formations are also abundant. Not only will you be surrounded by Tanay’s beautiful nature, but you’ll also have a quiet and peaceful time since the place is not usually crowded.
Tip: If you’re bringing kids, ensure they are always within sight since the natural pools can get deep in some parts. You can give them floaties for security. Also, the road to Paglitaw Natural Pools is muddy and bumpy. It is recommended to rent a vehicle instead since the area around the place is hidden from the public highway, and most residents go there on foot or ride bicycles.
How to go to Paglitaw Natural Pools: Follow the exact initial directions as Calinawan Cave. There is signage to show the way, and you can also ask locals for guidance. Paglitaw Natural Pools is just about a 15-minute drive from the cave.
November 2022 Update: Paglitaw Natural Pools is temporarily closed.
As this guide has shown, Tanay, Rizal is filled with beautiful natural sceneries and adventurous activities. It’s a place to keep in mind for your weekend trips! Happy travels!
Try Yoorekka Magazine to find more guides to popular destinations and travel tips!
This article was initially published in Yoorekka on September 18, 2019.
Stay safe as you travel! Make sure to follow social distancing protocols and observe health precautions. For now, keep safe!
Rates may change without prior notice.
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About Denisse Shawntel Tan
Denisse Tan is currently a work in progress: she’s an aspiring writer, artist, and fashion designer! She’s trying to figure out how to manage her time in achieving all of her goals while also taking in life as humanly possible. Aside from art, she’s a big fan of the color pink, disco music, Bratz dolls, and Genshin Impact. By age 35, she plans to travel to New York City 🗽.
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