GuideNaturePhilippinesTravel

A Guide To Camping And Glamping In Rizal In The New Normal

In the wake of the pandemic, camping (or glamping) has emerged as one of the best ways to scratch the travel itch without being too exposed to crowds in tight spaces. Plus, it’s a relatively cheap activity, whether you prefer pitching the tent in the wild or you’d rather stay at a campsite with full facilities. With a vast expanse of relatively undisturbed nature, Rizal is the perfect destination for metro folks as it’s only about a two- to three-hour drive from Manila.

Here, we share a handy guide on where to go camping or glamping in Rizal, and everything else you need to know before packing your bags and hitting the trails. Just keep in mind that Rizal’s travel restrictions are ever-changing, and it’s important to adhere to local regulations when you’re traveling. A few of the key travel guidelines in Rizal are the following:

  • Reach out to the resort or campsite before visiting. Make sure the area is open to campers on your preferred date.
  • Observe social distancing.
  • Pack and wear your face masks and face shields!
  • Most establishments do not require guests to be tested for COVID-19, but submitting a Health Declaration Form is typically a must.

 

 

Camping In Antipolo

via Mount Purro Nature Reserve Facebook page

Just an hour or two away from Metro Manila, Antipolo is a popular destination for city folks who want a change of scenery without traveling too far. The city is known for its thriving art and food circuits, but it’s also blessed with incredible mountain landscapes that are the perfect playground for campers.

Getting There: Take the Sumulong Highway or Ortigas Extension to Antipolo. Jeepneys and vans are also available from Cubao, Edsa-Shaw, or Makati to the town center or the Antipolo Cathedral. From there, hop on a tricycle to your destination.

Our Campsite of Choice: Bask in the beauty of nature at Mount Purro Nature Reserve, a pristine eco-park on the foot of the Sierra Madre Mountain Range. Here, campers enjoy a host of creature comforts, including bathrooms and showers, an in-house restaurant, a swimming pool, and a game room. Hiking and river trekking are also available. Pitch a tent on-site for P850, plus an additional P500 for tent rental if you don’t have one.

via Celia Nachura

Other camping options in Antipolo include Singalong Nature Campsite Hill for total immersion in nature and a wicked kawa bath, Phillip’s Sanctuary for its array of obstacle courses and outdoor activities, and Dalandanan Nature Camp at the hiking favorite Mt. Bagtas.

Post-Camping Activity: Explore Antipolo’s art and food scene. There are plenty of must-visit establishments in the city, but a couple of our favorites include Pinto Art Museum, Crescent Moon Café and Studio Pottery, Burrow Café, and Tahanan Bistro, among others. A spa treatment at Luljetta’s Hanging Gardens Spa is a treat after a night or two in the wild.

 

 

Camping In Tanay

via KKday Supplier

When it comes to camping, hiking, and other nature-centric activities, Tanay reigns supreme in Rizal. The town has long been a playground of outdoorsy types, with a mountainous terrain that’s home to an impressive array of forests, peaks, rivers, and waterfalls.

Getting There: While the mountains of Tanay may feel remote, it’s easy to get to from Manila. Vans and jeepneys from Shaw Boulevard in Mandaluyong can drop travelers off at the public market, where tricycles are available for rent to take you to your destination.

Our Campsite of Choice: There are more camping spots in Tanay than anywhere else in Rizal, but Treasure Mountain stands out as one of the best places to wake up to a sea of clouds in the province. It’s easily accessible, with visitors able to drive up to the entrance of the campsite. Besides the breathtaking views, rope courses and a swimming pool are available.

 

 

If you’re on the hunt for other campsites in the area, try 3 Springs Mountain Park for a resort-like experience with clean bathrooms and showers, as well as a swimming pool. Lambingan Hills and Pili Paninap Farms are also excellent options for eye-catching flora and the tranquil farm setting. To stay near the Daraitan River, glamping at Bulod Campsite is worth considering.

Post-Camping Activity: With boundless natural gems to explore, you definitely won’t run out of things to do in Tanay. Love climbing mountains? Nagpatong Rocks, Mt. Daraitan, and Mt. Maynoba-Mt. Cayabu loop are three of our favorite climbing spots. If you prefer swimming, the Daraitan River and the Daranak Falls are both must-visits.

 

 

 

 

Other Great Camping Spots In Rizal

UCM Adventure Park (San Mateo)

via UCM Adventure Park Facebook page

Highlights: An adrenaline-fueled ATV ride, horseback riding, and beautiful sunsets
Address: Brgy. Silangan, San Mateo
Rates: P1,000 for the camping fee, P1,000 for tent rental
Website: https://ucm.com.ph/product-category/atv-park, Facebook

 

Quest Adventure Camp (Teresa)

via Quest Adventure Camp Facebook page

Highlights: Pleasant views of rolling hills and gentle streams, adventure facilities (zip line, wall climbing, rappelling, rope courses, obstacle courses, swimming pools)
Address: Pantay Quatro, Sitio Buhangin, Teresa
Rates: Glamping packages start at P1,500
Website: https://www.questadventure.ph, Facebook

 

 

Gear List For Campers

via Pixabay
  • Large backpack
  • Tent (if the campsite doesn’t offer them for free or rent)
  • Sleeping bag
  • Flashlight and/or headlamp
  • Face mask and face shield
  • Reusable water bottle, bowl, and cutlery
  • Food for meals and snacks
  • Water
  • Extra clothes, plus a waterproof jacket
  • Sun protection, including sunscreen and a sun hat
  • Insect repellant
  • Mobile phone and portable charger
  • Trash bags
  • Toiletries, including alcohol or hand sanitizer
  • First-aid kit

 

Tips And Reminders For Camping

  • Leave no trace—the golden rule of camping is leaving the campsite as you found it!
  • Bring a trash bag and seal it at night to prevent critters from rummaging through it.
  • If you’re bringing your own tent, practice pitching it at home before going on your trip.
  • Need gear? See if you can borrow from friends before splurging on pricey equipment.
  • Plan your meals beforehand. Reach out to the campsite to find out whether campfires are allowed on-site—not just for a fun bonfire, but also for cooking!
  • Check the weather forecast.

 

Visit KKday for more travel inspo on the New Normal, and amazing travel deals for your next holiday.

 

 

*Featured photo via KKday Supplier, Quest Adventure Camp Facebook page, and Celia Nachura

Tags: