Kim Buenafe
2023 DIY Travel Guide: The Masungi Georeserve Experience
Tucked in the dense rainforests of Baras in the province of Rizal is a well-protected sanctuary that makes an ideal setting for communing with nature. Masungi Georeserve, derived from the word “masungki,” meaning “spiked,” is a conservation area and a rustic rock garden painted with scenic views and limestone landscapes.
Though the georeserve only opened its doors to visitors last December 2015, it has long been protected and maintained for over 15 years and counting.
From being under the constant threat of illegal logging, mining, and quarrying activities in the late 90s up to the committed reforestation and rehabilitation efforts today, Masungi Georeserve has grown to be an exemplar of environmental protection and conservation.
The vast 1,500+ hectares of land serve as an avenue to share the love for nature, sustainable development, and geotourism with guests and surrounding communities.
The Masungi Discovery Trail
Ideal for team building and “Barkada” getaway, Masungi Georeserve stands out with its 10-kilometer spine of limestone formations nestled in a variety of flora and fauna.
Guests can go through the conservation area and come up close to the karst terrain via the Discovery Trail – a 3 to 4-hour hike full of rock scrambling, rope climbing, bridge crossing, and sightseeing.
The trail may seem easy with all the rock and concrete blocks built to cover the area.
“It’s not a mere walk in the park, though, as there’s still a lot of challenging ups and downs on the trail.”
Aside from its prime attractions, the Masungi Discovery Trail also offers an informative tour addressing the ecological relevance of Masungi and providing a deeper understanding of the area. Along the hike, you’ll learn about various plant species and wildlife – and have a chance to encounter them.
Knowledgeable park rangers will show and lead the way, sharing facts about the georeserve, its key features, and its inhabitants from time to time. Making loud noises – shouting, howling, the likes – isn’t allowed to scare or disturb the wildlife in the area.
Masungi Georeserve, with its natural flora, compelling highlights, and picturesque landscape, lets guests commune with nature and reenergize themselves while taking in the pleasures of the hike.
But that doesn’t mean you won’t sweat. The Discovery Trail will lead visitors to its challenging elements that will test one’s presence of mind, balance, and fear of heights.
Sapot
Thick steel cable wires were connected and shaped to form a giant web-like structure over a limestone cluster. Sapot was built to prevent damage to the rocks underneath while offering a 360-degree view of the surrounding area, including the Laguna de Bay on one side and the great Sierra Madre mountain range on the opposite.
Ditse
The area is enclosed with an existing cactus garden and holds a cavern with a stone-paved monkey on its floor. It is said that monkeys stay in this cave to keep cool when it’s hot.
Patak
This ‘air house’ got its name from its shape, which resembles a raindrop. Patak sits on a rope bridge, suspended high above abundant greenery to give a nice view of the cactus garden below.
Duyan
This giant hammock made of white braided ropes is an iconic installation in the georeserve, conveniently connecting one side of the mountain to the other. Duyan is a great place to just relax and chill out with friends while enjoying the company of mother nature.
Yungib ni Ruben
An eerie cave formation in a karst landscape, Yungib ni Ruben was discovered by one of Masungi’s workers, hence, the name. The cave lets visitors get close to its excellent characteristics or simply take shelter from the sun.
Tatay
The natural sculpture and formation of Tatay stand the tallest among the other peaks. A heap of big rocks shapes this peak, which boasts a spectacular landscape view.
Nanay
Nanay may be a bit short compared to the tallest peak, but it sure offers an impressive scene complete with giant boulders of rocks piled on one side of the peak.
Hanging Bridge
There are several bridges within the georeserve, but this one suspended at the trail’s end is the longest. The hanging bridge is made of steel cables structured together to form a stable pathway up in the air.
Liwasan
An area for meditation and relaxation before the final ascent back to the visitor sheds, Liwasan also serves as a birdbath for birds to cool down.
Must-Know Before Visiting Masungi
- Before going to Masungi, it is important to make a private booking first. All guests must reserve a slot at least four (4) days before their visit.
- WALK-INS ARE NOT ALLOWED.
- They only allow 7 participants per group; if your group is less than 7, they will allow you to visit the park as long as you are willing to pay for the 7 pax.
Age Limit
Limited to persons 13 years of age and above for security purposes.
Can you Fly Drones in Masungi?
As of this writing, guests can fly drones in the nature park’s vicinity.
What to Wear
For the attire, it’s best to wear casual, lightweight, and comfortable clothing and a pair of non-slip closed shoes. You’ll be walking under the sun’s heat at certain times, so you want to feel as comfortable and relaxed as possible. The trail comprises sharp rocks and limestone formations that can cause injuries and bruises if not wearing the proper footwear.
Essential Things to Bring:
- Water (included in the tour package)
- Sunblock
- Sunglasses
- Towel
- Extra Shirt
- Trail Food
- Camera
Updated Masungi Trail and Conservation Fees (As of September 2020)
Discovery Trail Conservation Fee:
- PHP 1,800 per guest on weekend
- PHP 1,500 per guest on weekdays
Night Trail Conservation Fee:
- PHP 1,800 per guest for Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
- Subject to availability. Kindly contact us for special arrangements.
*Inclusive of a Park ranger guide dedicated to the group, rental of helmets & backpacks, water refills, and complimentary light after-trail snacks.
Trail Approximate Duration: 3-4 hours
Masungi Tour Schedule
The tour is available from Tuesday to Sunday. The time schedules are either 7:30am or 1:30 pm, with only a limited number of persons allowed per day.
Getting There and Other Travel Info
By Private Vehicle:
Going to the georeserve is a winding yet scenic car ride along Marcos Highway. It’s advisable to bring your own vehicle, preferably a four-wheel drive, for efficiency, due to the long distances through rough, curving, and steep roads.
- Take Marcos Highway and avoid the Manila-East Road if coming from Metro Manila.
- Masungi can be accessed from Garden Cottages (address below) on the right side of the road, right after Foremost Farms and Palo Alto, from Metro Manila.
By Public Transportation
- From Cubao, ride a jeep or FX to Cogeo Gate 2 / Padilla.
- From Gate 2 (near the public market), ride a jeep to Sampaloc, Tanay.
- You will pass through Masinag, Cogeo, Boso-Boso Resort, Palo Alto, and Garden Cottages.
- Get down at the gate of Garden Cottages and walk down to the Park entrance.
Masungi on Google Map
It is no surprise Masungi Georeserve’s getting the attention of both hikers and nature enthusiasts. Like a secret that’s been told, this outdoor sanctuary is the perfect place to be one with and appreciate the beauty of Mother Nature while learning about geotourism and environmental sustainability at the same time.
- Masungi Georeserve
Location: Kilometer 45, Marcos Highway, Baras, Rizal, Philippines (inside the vicinity of Garden Cottages) - Email: [email protected]
- Mobile: +63 908 888 70 02
- Website: http://masungigeoreserve.com
- Follow Masungi Georeserve on Facebook
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Have you tried visiting this place? Share your Masungi Georeserve Experience by writing your comments below:
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