Ang ineeeeet!
Yep. Tell me about it. Ang init abot singit! Sure, we're in the Philippines and it's summer, after all, but, my god, is it hot! We all know this off-the-charts arid weather is due in large part to the upcoming overly dramatic, highly sensationalized, masakit-sa-bangs presidential elections. And, obviously, climate change. But keep calm, my adventurous child. Let's keep our acts together, for here is a list for you thrill-seeking vacation-leave-maximizing budgetarians out there. This includes destinations that are definitely not your average summer getaway – completely devoid of beautiful beaches, but fret not. This list enumerates natural spots that offer the whole package – its proximity to Manila, affordability, and unforgettable-experience yield.
From challenging trails leading to stunning Nature's fountains to rugged paths with surreal waterways, here are 8 extraordinary locations to cool down this summer!
1. MINALUNGAO NATIONAL PARK
Nueva Ecija
A length of jade water surrounded by white boulders, Minalungao National Park in the municipality of General Tinio, Nueva Ecija is just about 4 to 5 hours away from Metro Manila. It's a declared protected area which features a diverse karst landscape dotted with shallow caves open for explorations. A zipline as well as a nature walk towards one of its highest points to a towering cross are some of the other fun activities that can be done here.
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| A different kind of traffic jam |
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| Jade water surrounded by white boulders |
Read this DIY Guide to Minalungao for more pictures and to plan your trip.
2. DARANAK and BATLAG FALLS
Rizal
One of the most popular tourist spots in Tanay is the twin falls of Daranak and Batlag, and it's for a good reason. The veritable natural waterpark has not only cool refreshing waters, the falls and the surrounding forests also make for a great background. You can also couple it with a tour to Calinawan Cave.
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| One of the best waterfalls in Rizal |
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| In Batlag Falls circa 2014 |
Read more about Daranak and Batlag Falls.
3. TINIPAK RIVER
Rizal
Another popular destination in Tanay is the beautiful Tinipak River. Its turquoise water feels its way between giant white boulders. It is also enclosed by a portion of the Sierra Madre, with nearby Mount Daraitan and Mount Mamara serving as possible additions to your itinerary. Along the banks of Tinipak, there is also a cave with a natural pool that visitors can explore.
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| The emerald water feels its way through the huge rocks of the Tinipak River |
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| Tinipak river follows the winding path of the mountains |
Know more about the journey to Tinipak River and other destinations featured in the 250-peso Adventure episode of GMA News TV's Good News.
Related Adventure: Guide to Paguriran Island, Sorsogon
Related Adventure: Guide to Paguriran Island, Sorsogon
4. HULUGAN, TALAY, and HIDDEN FALLS
Laguna
An hour of trekking through a patch of woodlands in Luisiana, Laguna, leads to a trio of falls. The farthest is Hidden Falls. Despite being smaller compare to Hulugan, it's the most otherwordly of the three. Because of its precarious landscape, though, swimming here is not permitted. Go farther down the trail and you'll come face to face with the modest Talay Falls. A few more minutes down and Hulugan, the largest and most photographed of the trio, will come into view. The trek may be tiring but once you behold Hulugan, it'll be worth it!
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| Just look at that! |
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| The otherworldly Hidden Falls |
Check this out for a motorcycle trip to this trio and other waterfalls in Laguna.
5. BUKAL/KILANGIN FALLS
Laguna
Resting on the foot of Mount Banahaw is Bukal Falls or Kilangin (in Liliw) with its clear glass-like water. It can be reached by a two-hour trek from Brgy. Bukal in Majayjay. The water here is freezing. Perfect to beat the summer heat!
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| The water is freezing cold in Bukal Falls |
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| Bukal's water looks so delicious |
Go here for a complete DIY Guide to Bukal Falls.
6. BALITE FALLS
Cavite
Just when you thought Cavite has nothing to offer but historic sites, here comes Amadeo with Balite Falls. This is highly accessible, without the need for a trek. It's also very near Tagaytay, so cool weather for the win!
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| Balite Falls is perfect for a family and barkada getaway |
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| The area is developed and well-maintained |
7. AMBON-AMBON and MALAGASLAS FALLS
Batangas
A fairly unheard of destination in Batangas, this duo of falls in the municipality of Laurel is sure to satisfy your hunger for a nature getaway. The trail goes through fantastical landscapes, involving scrambling over rocks and crossing streams. And like Balite Falls, it's also near Tagaytay and the Taal Lake!
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| There are small pools where one can bathe in Malagaslas Falls |
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| The top tier of Ambon-ambon falls |
Plan your trip with this DIY Guide to Laurel's twin falls.
8. WAWA DAM
Rizal
Once a major watershed, Wawa Dam in Rodriguez, Rizal has been converted to a tourist destination over the years. Its terrain is similar to Tinipak and Minalungao but what makes it special is the other activites you can do here. You can pair your swimming with spelunking at the historic Pamitinan Cave or get a 360-view of the Sierra Madre and the whole of Rizal by hiking to Mount Pamitinan, Mount Binicayan, or the other hosts of mountains in the area.
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| Massive boulders litter Wawa Dam |
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| Rafting across Wawa Dam with Pamitinan and Binicayan in the background |
Learn more about Wawa Dam and the adventurous activities that can be done here.
These are some near-the-metro spots you can visit if you're looking for something more challenging that the usual beach getaway.
Related Adventure: 8 Basic Etiquette Rules Every Modern Traveler Should Know
Don't forget to always be responsible when traveling and practice the Leave No Trace principles.
Know other nearby destinations perfect for summer? Tell your fellow adventurers about it in the comments!