Masungi Georeserve Tours

Set among the rain forest of Rizal, east of Manila, the Masungi Georeserve is a conservation area with a difference. A network of paths, bridges, ladders, and nets winds its way among trees and karst pinnacles, while a second trail focuses on conservation. The restaurant is reserved for private dining, but there are other food options.

The Basics
The Masungi Georeserve is almost always visited as a day trip from Manila, although there is accommodation nearby. Book well in advance, as the reserve does not accept walk-in visitors. Guided tours in groups of 7–14 travelers run through the forest along the Discovery Trail, a fascinating mixture of forest paths and rope courses, by day and by night. Alternatively, follow the Legacy Trail to actively participate in forest renewal. Some packages include meals around a campfire or in floating huts; others include helicopter transfers or shuttle bus transfers from Manila.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Masungi Georeserve is a must for nature lovers and environmentalists.
• The reserve is a great choice for families with older children. Note that the Discovery Trail is only for over-13s.
• As Masungi Georeserve encourages the use of the Filipino language, not all guides will know or use English.
• The Discovery Trail is an active experience. Wear comfortable shoes, such as sneakers, and loose clothing.
• The reserve is nonsmoking. Hand over cigarettes and lighters at the entrance or leave them in your vehicle.
• The Masungi Georeserve is not accessible to travelers who use wheelchairs.

How to Get There
The Masungi Georeserve is located in Rizal province, about 30 miles (48 kilometers) east of downtown Manila. Leave early to avoid Manila’s rush hour or face a journey of almost three hours. Public transport is not an option, so look for a tour that includes door-to-door round-trip transfers—or opt for the 15-minute helicopter flight.

When to Get There
The Masungi Georeserve works seven days a week. The Legacy Trail operates during the daytime only, while the Discovery Trail operates during the day and at night. The well-regarded restaurant is currently open only for private dining and events. Plan your visit for a weekday, not weekends, if possible, and avoid the Easter vacation period.

What Can I See at the Masungi Georeserve?
The focus at the Masungi Georeserve is on the ecosystem as a whole and the dramatic limestone karst structures. That said, you may well see wildlife, including snakes, monkeys, and monitor lizards, as well as rarer creatures such as cloud rats and civet cats, along with native plants and flowers.