Daranak Falls
Gracey
invited me to join her and her outdoor club to trek Mt. Daraitan. After
saying no to her invitations so many times, I finally said yes.
We
took the 3-hour trip to the location by hopping on one of the Tanay,
Rizal-bound jeepneys in Shaw Boulevard. We stopped to see the Daranak Falls
at the foot of the Tanay mountains before proceeding. It's nice to see
that the falls is still intact and it looked like it became one of the
swimming destinations in the area - there are picnic huts, lifesavers,
lifeguards and a lot of people.
Daranak Falls
Trekking
The
trek took around almost 2 hours with the several stops for rest and
photo shoots. We started around almost 2pm after we had lunch at the
jump off point. We were supposed to cross a river so we were advised to
wear short pants. When we got there though, there was an option to
cross through the bridge but you have to pay PhP 2. I'd rather pay than
get wet at the start of the trek.
Trekking and enjoying the view as well
Gracey tests the water
We
took a trail along the river. Based on my researches though, there are
other trails that lead to caves and peaks. I am glad the group took the
river trail. It's a no-sweat trek for a novice like me. The trail is
mostly ground level and some parts are already cemented. There were a
few rocky trails and some even muddy but we managed. I slip and trip a
lot but never once during this trip.
The path is rocky that horses seemed to have become the main transport
The
route is so scenic that one really would not mind the minutes of walk.
We would look back several times to admire how the elements are nicely
composed: the trees, the mountains, the river, the light, rock
formations. And not to mention, it was the best day for the trek (at
least that's what I think).
A view of the river
View some more photos HERE.
Camping
We
arrived at the rocky campsite a little past 4pm. It was beside the
Tinipac River and surrounded by mountains. Until now, I stitll think
the place is amazing.
The group pitched the camps while I went
around to take photos. My hosts were very hospitable. They took care of
everything I almost did not do anything. The group seem to have been
doing this for a long time and they have complete equipment as well. Thanks guys!
When
the sun was down, fireflies started showing up. Seeing fireflies is one
of my favorite things. And to see them lighting up insync was an
amazing experience.
Sleeping was a bit difficult because the
ground was rocky, but that becomes the least of your concerns when
you're tired. View camping photos HERE.
Tinipac River
Our campsite
The happy campers cooking dinner
Lorie with Andrew, one of the campers
View my world nomad Daraitan Album HERE.
