Daranak Falls: An Exultant Plunge in the Majestic Pool of Mother Nature

Are you looking for a beach-like-experience just to quench the heat of summer near the metro? There is one alternative way, the refreshingly cold, fresh and surging water of Daranak Falls will surely satisfy that enticing desire. It is concealed on the slopes of Sierra Madre Mountain Range in the town of Tandang Kutyo, Tanay, Rizal.

The Daranak Falls has 14-meter high waterfalls cascading into a deep catch basin that serves as a natural pool which make a perfect summer getaway for everyone. Also, there are other smaller waterfalls situated in the area that are perfect for a natural water massage.

How did we get there? From Starmall FX/van Terminal, Shaw Boulevard, we took a ride bound to Tanay, Rizal for 70Php. The van stops at the Tanay Public Market. Travel time is about 1.5 – 2 hours. At Tanay Public Market, hire a tricycle going to Daranak Falls for 100Php one way.

It took us 20 minutes to get to the falls, the trekking is not that steep and there are bamboo brides that makes it safer. We saw some cute monkeys on our way.

Daranak Falls is open daily from 8:00AM – 5:00PM, entrance fee is 50 pesos. Picnic shed is available for 300 pesos, whereas picnic table is for 150 pesos, but good thing our friend brought a tent where we placed our stuffs, overnight camping is not allowed though.

We actually did not swim in Daranak falls, it was too deep and might be dangerous for people to swim. We took a dip into the neighboring and smaller falls, Batlag. We were asked again for the entrance fee to this area, it was 100 pesos. Well, in my opinion, the fee is just right since this area is more safer and shallow and a lot more "swimming-friendly" little falls. Everybody can enjoy the alluring blue cold water of the falls. Swimming float tubes are available for those non – swimmers like me who want to relax in the middle of the pool. You just need to be careful on transferring to the other falls since the rocks could slippery. We enjoyed taking pictures with the falls. TIP: it was too bad we weren’t able to bring a waterproof camera or phone case, so bring one to enjoy your pictorial more!

Although we did not swim in the majestic Daranak falls, we took a lot of time here to take photos. Well, I was with 2 pairs of couples and they took the chance to have a “pre-nup” pictorial and the falls was undeniable a beautiful background. I was their official photographer for the day.

The area is protected by local government and is responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and orderliness of the park. The facility has cottages, souvenir shops and restaurants. Parking lots are available outside the area.

Actual trip was on May 13, 2013. It was so memorable, indeed a worthy trip if you have limited budget. Daranak Falls is an ideal place for adventurous people and those who want some change of scenery from the beach, sand and sun.

Thanks for reading and have a blessed day!