Rizal province is undoubtedly one of the most favored places to visit for mountaineers. It is a perfect place for beginners to celebrate their first mountain hike since it is in here where you can find the right mountain to climb based on your specifications. Aside from the beautiful mountains, the province of Rizal also offers unspoiled rivers and waterfalls as well as impressive rock formations inside those century old caves.
One of the mountains in Rizal that is considered a favorite is Mt. Daraitan. It is categorized with a difficulty of 4 out of 9 and it offers a scenic view of the Sierra Madre and the ever-bustling Tinipak river.
THE JOURNEY
We started our trip to Mt. Daraitan and Tinipak River a little passed 4AM. At around 6AM, we reached our destination which was at the Jollibee Tanay. From here, many tricycle drivers are waiting and will offer a ride going to Barangay Daraitan.
The fare is fixed at 500 pesos and the trike can accommodate up to 6 persons. 
Banca Transfer Fee is Php 5 per way
After more than an hour of the bumpy ride, we transferred to a banca to cross a river and rode another tricycle going to Brgy. Daraitan Barangay Hall where the major jump-off point is located. We reached the Barangay Hall around 8AM.
The guides in Barangay Daraitan are well organized. Before we started our adventure, our guide, Kuya Melvin, provided us an orientation to discuss the pros and cons of the hike.
We immediately started our trek after the orientation as our feet were too hungry to conquer this mountain. The first part of the trek appeared to be just fine that made us think that it was an easy hike but it was a big mistake to think that way! The trail going to the summit was almost a total ascent plus the difficulty doubled due to the muddiness of trail brought by yesterday’s rainfall.
We were on an almost non-stop climb up to the summit. We passed Camp 1 and rested for awhile and immediately got back to our trek passing camp 2 and eventually reaching camp 3. The longest of these was the trek going to camp 1 and it was the most difficult part of the trek.
THE SUMMIT
Finally, after almost 3 hours of trekking we eventually reached the summit and what else can we say, it was a total beauty! The Sierra Madre Range is so mesmerizing plus the natural rock formation on the summit made it all perfect.
SIDE TRIP
We took a different route, traversing to Tinipak River. The difficulty tripled! It was too slippery plus the trail going down was too demanding and you really need to be extra careful to avoid getting slipped and hurt your precious butt with that hard and pointed limestone.
If your shoes looks like this, no worries! You can wash the mud off at Tinipak River.
After more than 2 hours of trekking down, we reached Tinipak River. It was a perfect way to end our hiking, dipping into its cold water.
Inside the cave.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Ride an FX at Starmall Crossing and tell the driver to drop you off at Jollibee Tanay. From there, hire a tricycle that will take you to Brgy Daraitan (be prepared for an adventurous ride since the way is a rough uphill road).
TIPS/REMINDERS
- Leave no trace policy.
- The first trip of UV Express going to Tanay is at 4AM just in front of Starmall Shaw.
- Take with you at least 2 liters of water, trail food, and your packed lunch.
- Bring extra clothes.
- Be more cautious when you are in Tinipak River especially if you plan to swim because the underwater current is strong.
- Take a jeepney when going back to town proper, it is safer than hiring a tricycle.
| Starmall to Tanay Rizal (RT) | Php 140 |
| Trike from Jollibee Tanay to Brgy. Daraitan | 125 |
| Banca to cross from the other side of Barangay (RT) | 10 |
| Trike going to Brgy hall (RT) | 30 |
| Guide fee (500/4pax) | 125 |
| Reg Fee (20 for Mt. Daraitan and 20 for Tinipak River) | 40 |
| Shower Fee | 20 |
| Jeepney going back to Town proper | 100 |
| GRAND TOTAL | Php 590 |
Related Links:
MT. PULAG TRAVEL GUIDE
Hiking Guide for Beginners: Mt. Maculot (Rockies) 2017
230 pesos Hiking Guide to Mt. Balagbag 2017
500 pesos Dayhike Guide to Mt. Batolusong + Kay-ibon Falls
500 pesos Dayhike Guide to Mt Batulao + Caleruega Church
