those rolling hills landscape is killing it
Mt. Maynuba is located at Tanay, Rizal - Philippines. I vividly remember this hike because of our "on-the-way" experience. Haha! We were using the Waze app to go to the jump-off area and there was a part before reaching the point where the Waze was directing us on just circling a particular road. What makes it odd is that when we reached the end of the point, it will direct us to the road where we just started and looking at the big picture.. we were just doing a full loop. The more interesting part is that since it was sooo early, there were no other persons to ask about directions. Well, after pushing through a road we felt we haven't taken yet, the app updated and worked properly again. Whew!
Upon arriving at the jump-off and doing a simple registration worth P40, we did not waste any time and immediately started the hike after a few reminders given by our tour guide.
Mt. Maynuba jump-off
The first few minutes of the trail were okay (which is usual). It was mostly flat and the stroll is conveniently enjoyable. Haha! You can still have those funny and crazy conversations without catching your breath.
And so the adventure begins
But when you start climbing, the uphill parts were long, consecutive and steep that will tire those legs out. One of us even puked in one of the stops on the way, well, it was not actually an official "take your 5" area but the situation already needed it. "Susuka pero di susuko!"
how strong are your legs?
You may really need to take breaks from time to time but don't worry too much though as the first incredible view is near and at reach. Feel free to look at the night sky when you feel tired as it helps ease some of that feeling.. keeping your focus away from it and calming you generally. Well, that personally works on me and it will not hurt if you try it too.
So for the first view of the morning.
Switzerland feels
We were stunned upon seeing this as it was hiding across the trail we were traversing. It definitely caught us all off guard, surprising us with this literally breathtaking view. You guys can recoup and recharge here before moving forward again.
Once you reach this rolling hills part, it means you are already near the summit of the mountain.
rolling hills
Mt. Maynuba summit
What?! We are in the summit already?! Yes. But one of its best features is that it gets better and better from here. A few meters from the summit is where the windiest part of the hike happens (my favorite). There is a ridiculously open-spaced area where a giant stone is oddly placed in a great spot to have that magnificent view of nature in front of you.
It was that good that we took our time here so each of us can have our photographs taken. More pictures in the video at the bottom.
siesta time Jas?
The wind here was blowing crazy that as we try to stand up on top of that rock, the push of the air tries to unbalance us which actually happened the Chester.
Man, this is where I took it all in. I was inhaling all of the fresh air as much as I can and at the same time feel so relaxed as it drifts its way through us. I am willing to hike again just to experience the given conditions for the second time if there is an opportunity, really.
Now, for the 8 waterfalls.. You'll encounter most of them on your way down which is a perfect time to cool down. So not only that you will be looking forward to reaching them on your way down, but it also keeps you busy which makes the whole downhill experience feels much faster.
Luis at a waterfall cliff
Lamig Ches? Haha!
3 layered waterfall
Since there are 8 of them, which by the way are not all of them are swimmable.. we decided to just dip on the one with the biggest area to swim at and preferably the furthest or in another perspective nearest in terms of going back to the jump-off area.
Well, even though these waterfalls are really more enchanting when you see them firsthand, I still suggest you maximize all the selfies you can get with them as they are not that common to be seen especially for the majority of us, city people. And look, it seems like we are not enjoying it based on our picture below. lol.
waterfall selfie
There are no leeches here and the depth of the waters is just perfect for everyone. The water is cold but it's so easy to make it warmer by (you know) doing the "no. 1" haha! Kidding aside.. So in visiting this place, make sure to bring extra clothes if you want to enjoy the experience fully. Its actually an all-in-1 package of doing cardio, taking a breather in that usual routine, experiencing the gift of nature, and relaxing in the waters of Rizal.
waterfall dipping
If you want to see more of our trip's crazy pictures, feel free to watch the video below. I sincerely hope you enjoy them: Haha! Anyway, the guide's fee still stands at around P500 (good for 5 pax) so the expense is still kept at a minimal below it if you divide everything to yourselves. A great price for a great prize indeed.