Masungi Georeserve

Sapot

Masungi that comes from the word "masungki" which translates to "spiked" because of sprawling limestone landscape found within and the oldest rock was about 60 million years old. The place consist of limestone and sinkholes because it is believed that millions years ago the place was under the water because of the presence of sea shells around the place. This Geo-reserve was being protected since 1990's and was opened to public last December 2015.  Masungi Trail is about 10 kilometers long and around 3-4 hours walk for the full round depending in your speed.

Silungan

Before you can get here, you have to make a reservation first through their website. Please take note that walk-ins are not allowed and you have to be in minimum of 7 and maximum of 14 persons in a group and is limited to 13 years of age and above for security purposes. Fees are Php 1,400/guest if you book this 2016, but if you will book in 2017 fees are Php 1,500/guest for weekdays and Php 1,800/guest for weekends. Inclusions are local park ranger guide, complimentary light refreshments,(This will be given before exiting on the trail. This includes bread, calamansi juice, banana and water) and light bags that maybe used through the trail.

Helmet and Bag

Going to the place it is advisable to be in private car because the place is not that accessible through public transportation. To get here you have to follow the Marcos Highway road and avoid the Manila east road if coming from Metro Manila. The place was located at Kilometer 47, Marcos Highway Marikina-Infanta Road, Baras Rizal.

Lambat

At the entrance of  the Masungi, there's a park ranger that will accommodate your group. He will ask you what time is your reservation and to whom it was named. Then after that you will have to walk going to the Silungan where you will meet the park ranger that will guide your group through out the trail. First you will be having a short orientation about the place and the rules and regulation. After that you have to sign a waiver then, you have to wear protective gears like helmet. If happened that you need a bag for your things, they can lend you just make sure that you have to return it after the trail.

Kuwago

Unggoy

At the trail, first you have to climb through ropes and they called it "lambat". But before you climb on those ropes you have to wash your shoes first to remove the mud and to be able to climb on the ropes easily. After that you will pass through the cactus garden that are naturally planted in the area that leads you to the spider web or which they called "sapot" where you can have the spectacular view of the Laguna de bay and the Sierra Madre Mountains. There are stops along the trail where you can have some rest or have some fun. There are stops called kuwago or owl in English because they spotted owls living in that area. There is also a stop called unggoy or monkey in English because of the presence of the monkeys in the area. Those monkeys are called long tailed monkey. The next highlight to "sapot" is called "patak" that hangs over the treetops in a shape of raindrop. This air house was built in lieu of a tree house to be less intrusive to the natural formations and greenery of Geo reserve.  Patak was connected to "ditse" another highlights that connects to duyan. Ditse means second eldest sister. Duyan where the real challenge is,  because you have to go down on a steep slope with braided ropes that leads you to a giant rope hammock  spanning a few hundred feet which is the most photographed and popular courses in Masungi. At the end of "duyan" is the "yungib ni Ruben" or cave of Ruben. This cave was discovered by their park ranger Ruben which they named after him. You can see stalactites and stalagmites inside the cave and beware of snakes and be careful on the low rocks along the trail.

Patak and Ditse

Duyan

Next highlight is in "tatay" or father in English the tallest of all the peaks which is about 600 meters above sea level. Tatay is a natural sculpture and formation composed of several rocks seemingly piled on top of one another. It also here where you can have the best view of Masungi.

Peak of Tatay

Next to "tatay" is "nanay" or mother in English the second tallest peak which is about 300 meters above sea level. This area is where you can find the logo of Masungi. Going back to the Silungan you will pass through the "liwasan" which serves as bird bath during summer.

Peak of  Nanay

Masungi Geo reserve is best for nature lovers who are seeking a place to meditate and be close to nature. It offers also bird watching for you can see different kinds of birds in the area. If you are planning to visit Masungi here are the things you have to consider:

• Guest are only accommodated on a per reservation basis only. You can check their site at http://www.masungigeoreserve.com/ for reservation.
• A group should consists of 7 members minimum and a maximum of 14 members.
• Ages 13 years old and above are only allowed to visit the area. This is for security purposes.
• Fee for 2017 is Php1,500/guest for weekdays and Php 1,800/guest for weekends. Fee for 2016 is Php1,400.
• No littering of any kind. Their rule is do not leave traces in the area.
• The park is strictly a non-smoking zone even if its alternatives are likewise  not allowed.
• Boisterous noise is not permitted as these may post strain on the area's wildlife.
• Picking up of flowers, rocks and other specimens are prohibited.
• If you encountered any kind of animals in the area do not feed or touch them.
• Dress casual, lightweight and comfortable clothes and bring water to keep you hydrated.

If you want to help in the restoration of the Masungi let us follow the rules and invite your family, relatives and friends to visit the place to have also a wonderful experience.

Masungi contact number:  0995-186-9911

                 Email address: trail@masungigeoreserve.com

Expense:

• Trail Fee - Php1,400
• Fare -                  300 (rented van)
• Tip -                     20

Total Expense:    Php1,720