Masungi Georeserve

The Masungi Georeserve is a conservation area and a rustic rock garden tucked in the rainforests of Rizal. Masungi’s name is derived from the word “masungki” which translates to “spiked” – an apt description for the sprawling limestone landscape found within. (Source)

Going to Masungi Georeserve is probably one of the highlights of my year. If you are a nature lover, you would definitely love this place.

At first, I just wanted to go because it looked so beautiful from the website. It was a little far from the city, but we were able to find it after asking some locals in the area for directions. If you decide to go, one thing to look out for along the road is the Masungi Georeserve logo and KM47 outside.

When we arrived, we were given an orientation about the reserve for a few minutes. I listened intently as the park ranger discussed some trivia and policies about the area.

Fast Facts:

• According to the carbon dating of geologists, the mountains were underwater 60 million years ago.
• The area was barren because of illegal logging before they decided to restore it in 1996.
• The conservation area has only been open to the public since December 2015.
• Visitors are discouraged to make loud noises to avoid disturbing any wildlife.
• Visitors are required to wear helmets during the trail to avoid contact with the sharp stone edges.

Their main goal is to promote the love of nature through presentation with respect and discipline. I love how it shows in every part of the area, even in how they designed their washrooms. Everything was so beautifully crafted and organized, like a masterpiece. It also showcases the Filipino culture in so many ways.

After the orientation, we were led by a park ranger to the trail. It takes approximately 4 hours to walk the entire trail which goes through the forest and mountains. We also passed by caves and limestone formations, climbing ropes and walking on hanging bridges.

(Note: They only accept visitors who are 13 years old and above for security reasons.)

It was very tiring, yet so exhilarating. I can’t believe the rush I got from being so up high in the mountains clinging only to ropes for dear life, hoping the strong gush of wind will not push me to my death. But of course, that’s just my imagination.

The ropes, bridges, and the entire trail was actually very well thought of. It was all engineered to perfection, very sturdy and safe. 

This is the mountain that the reserve’s logo was based on. They refer to it as the “King” because it looks like a king’s head at a certain angle from a distance.

I’m a bit of a scaredy cat, so I can’t believe I actually survived through the trail! Then again, there was no turning back because it was a one way trail. You can’t go back the way you went in as they designed it in such a way that you pass everything only once.

Besides, I was there with my relatives and my 62 year old aunt. She was so brave the whole time, and it would be such a shame if any of us backed out. Even the park ranger was so proud of her. She’s such a fun soul! I love her to bits!

All in all, it was an adventure of a lifetime. 🙂

---

Trail visits can only be booked in advance. No walk-ins are allowed.
You can request for a trail visit here.

Fee: PHP 1,400.00 per person (groups of 7-14)

Location: Kilometer 45, Marcos Highway, Baras, Rizal, Philippines, 1970
Email: trail@masungigeoreserve.com
Website: www.masungigeoreserve.com
Facebook: masungigeoreserve

Masungi Georeserve Brochure