Mt. Malarayat is another name given to the Mt. Malipunyo ranges in Batangas, one of the hiking destinations in Southern Luzon. Proximity wise from Manila and nearby provinces, it's a big CHECK. For two to three hours land travel and a whole day trek, you can enjoy the stunning views and extreme experience that can be found on the terrains of this mountain. It is also considered as “first timer friendly,” as it has a simple to moderate trail types. The terrain is abundant with different type of trees and colorful flowers that serve as as paradise of the wildlife.
Mt. Tibig
Hiking for one to two hours, you can easily reach the summit of Mt. Tibig. This mountain offers a relaxing trek because of its trails and gorgeous picturesque on the summit. With reggae music on the background, the stunning mountain ranges, covered with greens, will definitely make your eyes relaxed while the fresh and cool wind will help your soared muscles recover - such perfect place for bonding. Accessibility from Manila is super check because it is situated in Lobo, Batangas, a two to three hours land travel from the metro.
Buntot Palos Falls, the Hidden Falls in Laguna
As I've been telling on my Laguna posts, this province has a lot to offer. Today, I am bringing you to one of the majestic waterfalls of Laguna. Buntot Palos Falls, others call it "the hidden falls," is the grandest waterfalls in Southern Luzon as it stands 80 meters with a high amount of water falling. It's name literally translates to "Eel's Tail" in English because, according to our guide, the trails to the falls is a long, curvy and slippery, similar to Eels's body or Palos in Filipino. Did you know that it has a hidden feature? It is a cave beneath the water falls, so passing through the water is needed.
Mt. Mabilog
Aside from the historical sites, food, and rich culture, Laguna also has great flora and fauna that can be found on the mountainous and forest areas. Mt. Mabilog is just one of the mountains lying in the province where a vast diversity of wildlife can be found. Hiking this mountain can definitely bring an extreme and remarkable experience because of its muddy trail but there's a wide picture of the Laguna and the nearby mountains, such as Mt. Banahaw and Mt. Cristobal. Not only that, the reflection of the skies can also be seen on the water of the seven lakes.
Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery
Another historical landmark in Laguna is the Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery. It is a burial site which is 15 meters below a small chapel; a chapel which was designed for funeral masses in 1845 by Franciscan Priests lead by Fr. Vicente Velloc. In the Philippines, burial sites are situated in different spots, like hanging in Ifugao, placed inside the cave in Palawan and Cagayan, and concrete crypt (in the modern era). This burial site is unique because of its architectural design and purpose.
Pandin Lake, Laguna
Look at the beautiful view of Pandin Lake.
The province of Laguna has a healthy culture, stories, and travel destinations. Pandin Lake is just one of the seven lakes in the province that is certified tourist destination because of its unique and amazing picturesque. The lake, with the reflection of the skies, greets the visitors with its instagrammable landscape. The water is cool and crystal clear waters surrounded by forest which preserves the tranquility in the area. This is also the perfect jump off or side trip for hiking Mt. Mabilog.
3B Rest House, Antipolo City
Planning to go out of town but how far is out of town? Though, it's a one to two hours land travel from Metro Manila, we chose 3B Resort in Antipolo, Rizal because we thought that it has a relaxing ambiance and a pool with the view of Manila's golden skyline. Since it is situated on the mountainous part, the wind is relaxing, cool and fresh. This is your Backpacking Guide, Affordable Place to Stay, and Other Things You Need to Know.