Information about Rizal

Rizal

Rizal is a landlocked mountainous province located in the Calabarzon region in the Philippines. The province is named after the country’s national hero, Jose Rizal. Because it is only a few hours away from Manila, it is a popular tourist destination for those living in the capital region looking for a quick getaway.

Most tourists who visit Rizal come for its natural attractions. Some of the most popular tourist spots in Rizal are the Masungi Georeserve, Mount Daraitan, and Mount Purro Nature Reserve, all of which are part of the Sierra Madre Mountain Range. Other must-visit attractions include Tinipak River, Hinulugang Taktak Falls, and Calinwan Cave.

Rizal is also home to historical and cultural sites. The Pinto Art Museum features a vast collection of artwork from Filipino artists, the Angono-Binangonan Petroglyphs are ancient images believed to be some of the oldest artwork in the country, and the Antipolo Cathedral is home to an image of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage, which Jose Rizal was said to have visited in 1868.

 

Best time to visit

Visit from late November to early February if you want to experience Rizal’s cooler weather. Those who want to explore its natural attractions should plan their trip between November and May during the dry season.

 

Weather in Rizal

The weather in Rizal is generally cooler than in Manila, especially from November to February. While the dry season is the best time to visit the province, keep in mind that March to May are the hottest months, when temperatures can reach 34°C during the day.

 

Peak Season in Rizal

Local tourists usually flock to the province’s tourist spots during long weekends, Holy Week, and Christmas. 

 

Main festival/events in Rizal

Several festivals are celebrated in the many municipalities of Rizal, but arguably the most famous of them all is the Higantes Festival, held annually in November in Angono. In this festival, giant papier-mâché human figures are paraded in the streets to give thanks to its patron saint, Saint Clement.

 

How to get to Rizal

Rizal shares a border with Quezon City and Pasig City, so it is easily accessible from Metro Manila. There are buses and jeeps that will take you to different parts of the province, but you can also take a taxi to the province if you want a more hassle-free trip.

 

Safety in Rizal

Most areas in Rizal are safe for tourists, but it is still advisable to always be alert and be aware of your surroundings.

 

Getting around Rizal

The most convenient way to explore Rizal is via a private vehicle, but you may also take public transportation, including buses, jeeps, and tricycles. 

 

Food and Drinks

Rizal is home to a variety of restaurants, cafés, and bars, so it would be easy to fulfill any food craving. If you’re looking for a local delicacy to try, order minaluto, a dish of several types of meat and vegetables served with rice in a wooden basin.

 

Best neighborhoods to stay in Rizal

Most of the top resorts and accommodations in Rizal are located in Antipolo, which is a good home base for your trip to the province as the capital is also home to many Rizal tourist spots. If you want a quieter vacation away from the hustle and bustle of the city, you can stay in the municipalities of Tanay or Binangonan.