Mt. Malarayat is another name given to the Mt. Malipunyo ranges in Batangas, one of the hiking destinations in Southern Luzon. Proximity wise from Manila and nearby provinces, it's a big CHECK. For two to three hours land travel and a whole day trek, you can enjoy the stunning views and extreme experience that can be found on the terrains of this mountain. It is also considered as “first timer friendly,” as it has a simple to moderate trail types. The terrain is abundant with different type of trees and colorful flowers that serve as as paradise of the wildlife.
THE TRAILS OF MT. MALIPUNYO: We processed the registration at the Welcome arch of Brgy. Talisay and proceeded to the jump off. We hired Tatay Muring as our guide, he’s a friend of our tricycle driver. From the subdivision, it was a long walk passing by the different villages where the residents houses are far from each other. Next part was a normal trail but still ascending. The area smells good because of the blooming coffee flower, the locals livelihood. The terrain is rich in vegetation and the ambiance is refreshing. We passed by a river with a crystal clear water flowing - refreshing, cool and tastes good.
REMINDERS: There are Lipa and rattan plans on the trail. They scattered everywhere because, according to our guide, the government is pushing the residents to plant more rattan in the area for some reasons. On the trail, we saw something strange but look interesting; it’s the source of one of the most expensive coffee on earth – Civet Cat Coffee.
THE CAMPSITE AND SUMMIT OF MT. MALIPUNYO: The camp side is a long, narrow and clean area. There are opening or "durungawan" where the mountain ranges from the nearby provinces are visible. Though the area has a small opening, it is enough for the cool and refreshing to pass through. Not only that, there are tall grasses and shrubs surrounding the area, so insect repellents are highly recommended.
HOW TO GET TO MT. MALIPUNYO: At the Provincial bus loading bay in Ortigas (below the flyover.) Took an air-conditioned bus bound for Tambo Exit. Bus Fare: 124 pesos. Travel Time: 1 hour, 25 minutes. In front of Jollibee-Tambo, we rode in a jeep coaster going to Fiesta Mall. Then, we chartered a tricycle going to Brgy. Talisay. Just tell the driver that you’re going to “Malipunyo.”