A week ago, I joined a group of friends in a fun and exciting “mini adventure” exploring Masungi Georeserve. I call it a “mini adventure” because you don’t really need to be an experienced hiker to be able to conquer this hike, but if you’re scared of heights you might want to come prepared.
Masungi Georeserve is located 47 kilometers east of Manila in Southern Sierra Madre range in Baras, Rizal at an elevation of 640 meters. It took us less than two hours driving from Makati to get to the drop-off point.
Guests must request and reserve a visit four to seven days in advance. Cash transactions are not allowed on site so once you request a visit, all bookings and payments are finalized prior to visiting. A confirmation email is later sent to you with detailed information which includes the location map, what to bring, what to wear, and the georeserve’s policies.
We were accompanied by a lovely ranger during our hike. Apart from being an excellent photographer, he was well seasoned and provided comprehensive information as we hiked through excellently curated trails, caves, and steep slopes. The duration of the hike is approximately three to four hours, depending on the guests’ pace and how fast or slow the groups ahead take in one resting point.
My favorite part was spending a few minutes on the Sapot (“Cobweb”) staring at the panoramic vista of the surrounding. It looks scary and it actually was scary. I remember feeling a little adrenaline rush coursing through my veins as I walked on the suspended web-like platform with the karst underneath but it was well worth the experience.
For this hike, you definitely want wear comfortable light hiking attire and appropriate shoes. Carry a light back pack with enough water, some snacks, and only the barest essentials. Snacks and iced tea were provided at the end of our hike. Tipping the rangers directly is not encouraged instead there is a communal bucket in Silungan and Liwasan which ensures equal distribution among rangers.
Masungi Georeserve was a refreshing experience. There is almost no cellular service out there so it was a good excuse to disconnect, hang out with real people, and bask in the glory of nature.
I continue to have fun exploring the Philippines and I love coming back home and sharing the magic of it here on my blog. As others keep inspiring me through their travel tales, my hope is you also feel inspired to get out there and see what the Philippines has in store. Each time I am away from the hustle and bustle of Makati, it dawns on me that it truly is “More Fun In The Philippines”!
Lora By Lora
Masungi Georeserve
Kilometer 47 Marcos Highway
Baras, Rizal, 1970 Philippines
+63 908 888 7002
+63 995 186 9911
Monday-Saturday, 8AM-5PM
trail@masungigeoreserve.com
LORA BY LORA 