Editor’s note: Due to the local COVID-19 situation and related government restrictions, there may be changes to the operating schedules of the establishments or landmarks listed below. Please be guided accordingly.
Most Filipino families go to malls as their daily “pasyalan.” But for those who are looking for an adventure with nature, here’s a list of small gardens and parks located in the middle of the city that you can visit with the whole fam!
Ayala Triangle Gardens
Situated at the heart of Makati’s central business district, Ayala Triangle Gardens is one of the Insta-worthy nature spots in Metro Manila. The 20,000-square-meter park is filled with hundreds of trees including rain trees, golden palms, fire trees, kamuning, and podo cerpus.
Apart from the luscious greens, the public can explore art creations by some of the leading artists in the country. There are plenty of restaurants nearby the gardens, too. Other Ayala Triangle attractions you might want to visit are Filipinas Heritage Library, Gabriela Silang Monument, Ninoy Aquino Monument, and Sultan Kudarat Monument. Visitors are asked to comply with the park’s guidelines and policies, including proper trash disposal. Noise pollution and vandalism are also not allowed.
Operating Hours: 6:00 A.M. – 10:00 P.M.
Chinese Garden
If you’re looking for a nature trip around the metro, consider adding Chinese Garden to your itinerary. This Insta-worthy nature spot in Metro Manila was built as a symbol of friendship between China and the Philippines. The park is somehow similar to Baguio’s Botanical Garden with its serene vibe and lush greenery.
From the entrance gate to boardwalks, the garden is filled with intricate Chinese-inspired decors. You can explore the Chinese Garden for only PHP10. This is a nice option if you want to avoid the crowds at Luneta Park.
La Mesa Nature Reserve
From the Chinese Garden, let’s head over to La Mesa Nature Reserve or also called La Mesa Watershed. Aside from its Instagrammable views, it is one of the major water resources of Quezon City and Caloocan City, as well as the municipality of Rodriguez, Rizal.
You can hike with the whole family at La Mesa Nature Reserve without worrying about the heat, thanks to its shady trees, tables, and benches dotted along the way. For only PHP1,000, you can have a tour guide to ensure your safety while you wander around the forest.
The nature reserve strictly requires visitors to dispose of their trash properly, which isn’t really hard to do as garbage bins are widely available in the area.
Paco Park
Built in 1820, the Paco Park was originally designed as the municipal cemetery for affluent Spanish families residing in the Philippines. This is also where three priests, Fathers José A. Burgos, Mariano C. Gomez, and Jacinto R. Zamora (also known as Gomburza) were buried after their execution in 1872.
From its historical significance, Paco Park has transformed into an Insta-worthy nature spot in Metro Manila because of its lush surroundings that make a great backdrop for weddings, prenups, photoshoots, and romantic dates. The park’s vintage interiors and cozy ambiance make it a perfect place for those who are fascinated by old-fashioned structures and places.
Greenbelt Park
Another Insta-worthy nature spot in Metro Manila is the Greenbelt Park located amid four shopping mall buildings.
For those who are craving a morning run, Greenbelt Park provides a safe space that puts you closer to nature as it is flanked by vibrant flowers and wonderful summer plants. You can also visit the modern chapel of Sto. Nino de Paz located at Greenbelt 5.
