Weekend Adventures in Tanay, Rizal

Since we came back to the Philippines, we have made a conscious decision to bring the kids out every weekend despite the pandemic. 

Given its proximity to Manila, the town of Tanay in Rizal is a clear choice for us - with its uncrowded destinations, refreshing mountain scenery and child-friendly paths. 

Armed with packed snacks, our bathing suits, and insect repellant, here are the hidden gems that we visited so far:

Masungi Georeserve - Perimeter

We purposely didn't book to go on a trail but Lubos has been in Masungi a couple of times and he knows that the surrounding area is already nice to walk around. We simply wandered through the perimeter - just after the parking lot but it was such a treat for everyone.  

Sangab Cave is within a private property located at the opposite side of the river. We had to take a short hike and cross a rice field to get there. We met the caretaker and we were informed that exploring the cave is not allowed temporarily. Nonetheless, swimming by the opening was refreshing and a fun experience for the boys.

Kay-ibon Falls. The trail going to the falls was not very easy. It rained the night before so the pathway was muddy and slippery. The descent to the falls was the toughest, especially with a 10kg baby in tow. BUT it was worth it! 

Our Max was a trooper as always - walking on his own despite being bitten by a super aggressive ant! 

(Almost at) Tung Tong Falls

We didn't reach that falls because the trail is too difficult for kids. We did manage to hike in the forest and the swim by the river. We were pleasantly surprised to see a couple of groups on their way to the falls, while we were having a picnic after our swim.

Bunsuran Falls

There are 2 locations called Bunsuran Falls in Bunsuran Town.we lived one of it so much that the second time around we invited our friends with kids too. 

Having a good parking and access to the river, only 20 PHP enviro fee and being clean from rubbish but filled with fish  and fresh water shrimps and so near to Metro Manila, surprisingly few people visit this shallow water riverbank with plenty of small pools to dip in. Boys loved rafting down the shallow river on the floaters and getting carried away through small river canals. 

https://maps.app.goo.gl/AB7uiowc8nj64vYg7

Truly, you don't need to go far away to feel far away.