
Being in nature alleviates stress and helps clear the mind. Spending time with nature can help boost the immune system, prompt weight loss, improve concentration, and boost happy hormones.
While green spaces in Metro Manila are scarce, there are still places perfect for nature lovers to visit outside the major cities.
Take for example the Masungi Georeserve in Baras in the province of Rizal.
Located in the southern Sierra Madre range, the breathtaking site features massive limestone formations and plant and animal species.
The Masungi Georeserve is committed to the conservation and restoration of the lush but threatened landscape.
The good news is that the site has reopened to visitors following the easing of lockdown restrictions this month.
In a Facebook post, management announced that the Discovery and Legacy trails are now accessible to guests with certain limitations.
“As before the pandemic, only pre-registered, small, and private groups can be accommodated inside the trails. Only one group is accommodated per time slot to ensure zero impact on the natural environment as well as for the privacy and experience of visitors,” the geo-tourism site advised.
“There are no closed spaces within the trail experiences, so you can be assured they are low-risk activities for friends and family. The minimum group size at this time is 5 persons.”
Nature trippers can book in advance through the Masungi Georeserve's website or reach out to trail@masungigeoreserve.com.
You can also find more information about the Discovery and Legacy trails, and the entire site, on the website.
In the meantime, take a look at Kapuso stars and real-life couple Khalil Ramos and Gabbi Garcia's visit to Masungi Georeserve in this gallery.