Four Stunning Locations I Explored in Tanay Rizal Province, Philippines

On December 10, 2023, my project manager, one operation engineer, and one driver decided to explore Tanay Rizal's beauty and wildlife. Our project manager was picked up first in Eastwood City from the driver's lodging, and we were picked up second in Mirea Residences in Amang Rodriguez Santolan, Pasig City. We went at 7 a.m. for Tanay Rizal. Our first goal was to visit the Masungi Georeserve, but we were unable to do so since they require advance registration or reservations before you can enter, and walk-ins are not permitted. So we decided to continue our journey, but first we stopped for a coffee at Big C Delicafe.

Inside the Big C Delicafe. Nature is very enticing.

The greenery, mountains, and trees outside the place are amazing. Take note that the air in here is a little bit colder.

We then arrived at our first destination, which is Ridges and Clouds Nature Camp.

1. Ridges and Cloud Nature Camp

Address: Maysawa Circuit, Brgy, Tanay, Rizal

Entrance Fee: 150 pesos ($2.66)

What is within will surprise you if you look at it from the outside. The entrance gate is not very large or elaborate, but once inside, you will be astounded. You must pay 150 pesos ($2.66). They have a limited amount of parking space. You can see their building (store or restaurant) on the left side, where you can inquire about or order food. I recommend going early in the morning to observe the well-known sea of clouds at Ridges and Clouds Nature Camp.

These are their few services offered: Farmville, Twin Ifugao House, Stone Hot Bath, Massage Hut, Campsite, and Tent Houses.

The panoramic vista is breathtaking. Green mountains and forests may be seen. The air is quite soothing. There is also a dragon fruit plantation and a charming bridge. They also have a large pot. I'm not sure why there's a big pan—maybe for snapping pictures or maybe for steam bathing. Their cabanas are adorable, with varying sizes based on the number of guests per resident. The location is ideal for overnight stays because it is quiet. You may also enjoy a 360-degree view from their roof deck, which is located in the main building.

2. Daranak Falls

a wonderful view of the 46 feet waterfall

Address: G8V6+H9, Tanay, Rizal

Entrance Fee: 75 pesos ($1.24)

According to my research, there are several routes to get to Daranak Falls. These are your commute alternatives if you wish to visit Daranak Falls.

1. via Starmall in Edsa (Epifanio de los Santos Avenue) Shaw Boulevard
2. via Edsa (Epifanio de los Santos Avenue) Central/Crossing United
3. via Edsa (Epifanio de los Santos Avenue) Central/Parklea
4. via Santolan/Marikina
5. via Ortigas Center
6. via Araneta Center/ Cubao

We took more than an hour to get to this magnificent fall from Ridges and Clouds Nature Camp due to a layover in Tanay Highland. We believed we could go inside to see the said highland, but the security informed us that they would only allow customers who bought food to dine in. The location is easy to find, as there is a large sign directing you to Daranak Falls on the national route. We go the small route to the falls using our service. We are requested to pay a 50 pesos ($0.89) parking fee.

After parking our car, we walk for around 5–10 minutes to the main entrance of the falls. If you get hungry or forget to bring food, there are a few food stalls along the way to the falls. Adult admission is 70 pesos ($1.24). You must cross a short, suspended bridge. There were a lot of people there the day we went. They also rent out cottages, and there is a store inside where you can buy meals and have them cooked for you. If you intend to swim, there are also life jackets available. The water is freezing. Nature is protected. The rock formation can be viewed. The 46-foot-high waterfall is impressive.

Visitors include not only Filipinos, but also visitors from other countries.

3. Calinawan Cave

Address: Bayan ng Tanay, Lalawigan ng Rizal.

Entrance Fee: 70 pesos + 200 pesos for Tour guide fee good for 4 pax

When you are in the highway this place comes first before the Daranak Falls. You can easily check the place as there are many sign board you can see and will give you exact way to go.

First we try the 1st layer. The layer is quite spacious you can definitely walk by standing. The tour guide start introducing himself/herself giving you all the information and history of the Calinawan Cave

Bayan ng Tanay, Rizal Lalawigan, Philippines is home to Calinawan Cave. The location is fascinating since the cave's inside displays a variety of rock forms. The cave is totally dry and devoid of moisture. We have just looked at the first five of the seven strata, according to the tour guide. The legend surrounding Calinawan Cave is that it was the site of a movie shot by the legendary Jackie Chan. The cave is often used as a filming site for national and international projects. Additionally, local teleseryes, like the first mermaid in Dyesebel, are filmed in this cave. In the cave, I managed to photograph Dyesel's exact spot. Sad to say, some people have ruined several sections of the cave by picking at the stones and minerals.

A must-do pose in Calinawan Cave. (From left to right: my project manager, driver, and I, the operation engineer.) Before you begin your adventure within the cave, the natives will ask you to take pictures on this spot.

This is the cave's main entrance, with the words "Take nothing but pictures. Leave nothing but footprints. Kill nothing but time."

You can also purchase a keepsake from the shop located outside the cave.

This is their tourism information center. This is where you will register, and they will provide your tour guide. You must additionally pay the entrance fee and the tour guide's cost in this area. They will also equip you with the helmet you will need to wear inside the cave.

4. Pililia Windmill - Rizal Pipilia Wind Farm

Address: 54 MW Pililla Windfarm - Sitio Bugarin, Pililla Rizal, Pililla, Rizal.

Simply stop and walk for 2-3 minutes along the road to reach one of the free viewing areas for these massive fan-like constructions!

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