Things To Do
in Rizal
Rizal is a province located in the Calabarzon region of the Philippines. It is known for its lush landscapes, including mountains, rivers, and waterfalls, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The province is also rich in history, being the birthplace of national hero Jose Rizal, whose influence can be seen in various monuments and landmarks throughout the area.
Rizal is a vibrant community with a mix of urban centers and rural areas, offering a blend of modern amenities and traditional Filipino culture.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.20 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike at the beautiful Mount Pulag, enjoying the fresh air and stunning views. Capture breathtaking photos of the sunrise at the peak.
After descending, head to the nearby Masungi Georeserve for a thrilling canopy walk. Explore the lush greenery and unique rock formations.
Finish your day with a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant in Antipolo. Savor traditional Filipino dishes while enjoying the cool evening breeze.
Visit the Rizal Shrine in Calamba to learn about the life of the national hero, Jose Rizal. Take your time exploring the exhibits and enjoying the historical ambiance.
Head to the nearby Laguna de Bay for a scenic boat ride. Appreciate the serene beauty of the lake and the surrounding landscapes.
Dine at a lakeside restaurant, where you can relish local specialties. Enjoy the sunset views for a magical end to your day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical significance, home to national hero Dr. Jose Rizal.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including beaches and mountains.
- Access to various outdoor activities such as hiking and water sports.
- Strong sense of community and cultural heritage.
- Growing economy with opportunities in agriculture, tourism, and education.
- Limited infrastructure development in some areas.
- Issues with transportation and traffic congestion.
- Challenges in healthcare access and quality.
- Environmental concerns, including pollution and waste management.
- Occasional susceptibility to natural disasters such as typhoons.
Best Activities in Rizal
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience a challenging yet rewarding trek with stunning views of the mountains and surrounding landscapes.
Explore the unique limestone formations and caves while trekking amidst the beautiful natural scenery.
Enjoy a refreshing dip in the clear waters of Tinipak River and have a picnic amidst the picturesque rock formations.
Tours
Uncover the best of Rizal with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Rizal
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a stunning view of the Metro Manila skyline and is a great spot for sunset photos.
Known for its beautiful art and architecture, this museum also provides picturesque views of its surroundings.
A nature reserve with unique rock formations and breathtaking views, making it a perfect location for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Rizal
Rizal Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A local favorite, this slow-cooked dish features bonito fish simmered in a savory sauce of kamias (bilimbi) and spices. Best sampled at local eateries and roadside carinderias in towns like Tanay and Angono.
Must-Try!
A unique variation of the pancit (noodle dish) featuring crispy miki noodles mixed with vegetables and meat, typically found in restaurants and eateries in Antipolo.
A hearty stew made with tender chunks of meat (often goat or beef) cooked in a tomato-based sauce with potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers. Best enjoyed at family-owned restaurants and local food stalls in Morong and Pililla.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Rizal better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in Antipolo, this bustling market offers a wide array of street food such as grilled seafood, kakanin (rice cakes), and local delicacies like suman (sticky rice cakes) and bibingka (rice cake).
In May, the town of Lucban hosts this colorful festival where you can sample a vibrant array of local street food and delicacies while enjoying the festive atmosphere and traditional decorations.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Rizal, Philippines, it is important to show respect to elders through gestures like 'pagmamano' (blessing by taking an elder's hand and placing it on one's forehead) and using polite language and titles when addressing them.
Filipinos in Rizal are known for their warm hospitality. It is customary to offer guests food and drinks, and to welcome them with open arms into their homes.
Community and extended family ties are valued in Rizal, so participating in community events and helping neighbors are considered important ways to show respect and build relationships.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Rizal with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Rizal
Ensure a smooth experience
In Rizal, Philippines, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated in certain service industries such as restaurants, hotels, and spas. It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% of the total bill as a token of appreciation for good service.
Payment in Rizal, Philippines is predominantly done in cash, although credit and debit cards are also widely accepted in urban and tourist areas. Online banking and mobile payment methods are also gaining popularity. It's important to have cash on hand, especially when visiting more rural or remote areas, as some establishments may not accept card payments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Rizal.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The dry season is the best time to visit Rizal, Philippines. During this time, you can expect plenty of sunshine, little to no rain, and comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, sightseeing, and exploring the natural attractions in Rizal.
The rainy season in Rizal brings frequent and heavy rainfall, which can make outdoor activities more challenging. However, this season also brings lush and green landscapes, and it is a great time for photographers and nature enthusiasts to capture the beauty of Rizal's flora and fauna.
Rizal at Night
Hiking in Rizal
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Known for its sea of clouds and various flora and fauna, Mount Pulag is a popular hiking destination that offers a challenging trek and stunning views.
Famous for its crater lake formed after the 1991 eruption, the hike to Mount Pinatubo is a thrilling experience with breathtaking landscapes.
This mountain features a unique rock formation and beautiful scenery. It is ideal for both novice and experienced hikers.
Offering panoramic views of Laguna de Bay, Mount Sembrano is a great spot for hikers looking to enjoy both nature and a good workout.
A scenic spot with a mild hiking trail, Wawa Dam is perfect for a day trip, allowing hikers to enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility.
This mountain is known for its varying degrees of difficulty and stunning views of Batangas. It’s suitable for hikers looking for a challenge as well as those wanting a leisurely trek.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Rizal through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Rizal by plane.
The main international airport serving Manila, the capital city of the Philippines. It is located approximately 25 kilometers west of Rizal.
An international airport located in Pampanga, around 90 kilometers northwest of Rizal. It serves as an alternative to Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
Located in Zambales, about 80 kilometers northwest of Rizal, this airport services both domestic and limited international flights.
Located in Lipa City, Batangas, approximately 60 kilometers south of Rizal, this facility is primarily a military airbase but has limited civilian flight operations.
An airport still under development, located in Bataan, about 50 kilometers southwest of Rizal, intended to support international flights in the future.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The primary ethnic group in Rizal, known for their cultural heritage and language.
A significant demographic group, contributing to commerce and trade in Rizal.
Another ethnic group present in Rizal, known for their agricultural practices.
This group has a smaller population but contributes to the cultural diversity of Rizal.
Includes various indigenous groups with distinct cultures and traditions, though smaller in number.
The Soul of Rizal
Discover the essence of Rizal through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A highly popular sport in Rizal, often played in streets, barangays, and local leagues.
Gaining popularity in Rizal, with various local clubs and leagues promoting the sport among youth.
Widely played in community centers and schools, often featuring women's leagues.
A favored indoor sport, with many facilities offering courts for enthusiasts.
An increasingly popular recreational activity, supported by various biking events and trails.
Various forms, including Arnis, are practiced, reflecting the local culture and traditions.
Popular for fitness and community events, with marathons and fun runs held regularly.
Engaged in by many, especially during summer months at local pools and beaches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rizal.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Filipino cuisine may be meat-heavy, many restaurants and eateries in Rizal offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes such as Pinakbet (mixed vegetable stew) and Adobong Kangkong (water spinach in soy sauce and vinegar).
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find alternatives like grilled seafood, fresh fruit shakes, and steamed vegetables in most establishments, especially in areas known for their health-conscious dining options like Antipolo.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Rizal with these cultural adventures.
